Chapter 27. The Truth about the Gospel
The Gospel of Witches...
There is not much known about them to be honest, it was one of the biggest mystery in the World until now. No one where they came from and despite there saying they were given by the Witch of Envy herself, in reality, there is no proof that supporting those statement
However it was, without doubt, the book is something that people should never touch
Not after what happened to Marvolo family...
It was happened around two hundred years ago or so, yet people still remember it very clear as the tragedy has been told to the youngster of each generation
Marvolo family is used to be rival of Roswaal family in Arcane Art. The two families constantly debating and arguing about what should be learned or used to improve the state of Lugnica
The rivalry between the two could be said stalemate actually. In simple term, Marvolo's family have the quantity and Roswaal's family have the quality
There only few that delve into the art of magic in Roswaal's family but those who learned growth into a powerful magician and achieving many honor and award from the kingdom. Meanwhile, Marvolo's family have the number of magician under their command and all of them while average -some even good- but they produce the number with fast
Giving who was actually led Roswaal's family Aaron not surprised...
However that rivalry come to an end when Marvolo's family decide to study the Gospel of the Witch Cult
It was when one of the areas they watched was assaulted by the cultist, they manage to repel and kill the invader, securing the village that targeted
And they manage to get their hands on the Gospel book
Abeforth Marvolo, the head of the Marvolo's family at that time was known to be quite ambitious. He had achieved quite many things when he led his family and he also very well known among the nobility and royalty at that time, and it thanks to the research and experience it wasn't secret to someone at his stature that the gospel known to capable to grant some kind of vision of the future
That was very perked his interest
And it becomes the downfall of Marvolo family
The details were not mentioned but it is written that Abeforth becomes insane after researching that gospel and slaughtering his own family and people. The insanity was not visible or instant, the process was gradual and slow, for months. The more he learns about that book, the more obsessed and frustrated he become when he got nothing or manage to break some mystery
In the end, more than thousands people are dead...
Seeing the horror that the book has brought, the Royalty and Nobility agreed to ban any attempt of researching the gospel and possession of it, a warning also given to other to not touch or attempt to read the gospel without supervision of wise people
And so the gospel become one of the most dangerous and mysterious objects in the World
But that was for this World... For Aaron who comes from normal World where this place is simply a fiction? He knows a lot about them
Well... Maybe not a lot since there still so many mysteries about the Gospel itself but he know more than people in this World
He knew what Gospel is in big picture, knew how they function, knew what their purpose, and knew how they work in some degree
Gospel is a book that shows future of what someone wants and how to achieve it. It's like a precog power, a prediction, quite strong one, but even so it still only that, a prediction. The future is not simple things, it was fickle, it always changes, it was not always same no matter what
He learns that personally the hard way after all
That is why Gospel book can be useless despite how it able to show someone the path they should take to achieve the future they wish for. It doesn't give you power over the future, merely an accurate prediction
And when things become different from what written in those Gospel, it becomes useless, the page will become blank since the "future" that written in there will never happen
"Why it's blank?"
Shock was evident in his voice, they come out from his mouth before he even realize it as he stares at the book that Roswaal show to him
The clown themed magician only smiled at him, he leaned back in his seat "I wonder why..." He mused with mirthful voice
Aaron stare at the book that presented before him, his mind processing just what exactly happened for a few seconds before he draws his sword up again
"Nice try." He said darkly "I almost bought it."
"Oh?" Rosewaal's eyebrow quirked, his heterochromatic eyes twinkling with amusement "You think I'm lying?" He asked rhetorically "You think this is a book that belongs to some random cultist that I killed in past."
"What else it could be?" He inquired with disdain in his voice "Don't pretend to be sincere Roswaal, I know exactly what kind of man are you. You are not that different from your Mistress in term of morality and mindset, you are that sick to the point copying everything about her after all."
"Compared to my Mistress like that. Fu, fu, fu, I will take that as a compliment." Roswaal replied merrily "That praise aside, what you just said truthfully is not something that I won't do, however right now I'm really being honest. I won't manipulate you to follow the Gospel anymore and will help you as best as I could."
"And based on what your claim is?" Aaron snapped "What makes you so sure that I won't kill you just now and be done with it?! You have caused enough problem and pain for me, and even IF I accept your offer, what makes you so sure that I will trust you?"
Roswaal stared at the pseudo Saber, his face still contain an amused smile, it as if he is spending time relaxing in beach and enjoying the sunlight. Then his smile slowly gone and he pushes his Gospel a bit
"There are two ways how Gospel stop working." Roswaal said in a calm voice "You already know the first, it is by the future that they displayed broken, things went awry from their prediction. And the second..." Roswaal's smile returned, this time it looks more bright than before "When the Gospel has done its purpose."
Aaron feels cold sensation crawling inside his chest after hearing that
... Of course... Of fucking course! How could he forget about that one? Gospel become empty if it already serves its purpose! He never give thought about it because until now such thing has never happened, none of Gospel in original anime or novel become empty because it already has done it purpose
But... But... There is one... Isn't it? There's one Gospel that empty not because it broken...
Beatrice's Gospel...
"Impossible." He said, his voice become dry and no longer have it previous heat "Echidna... Your Mistress still in her tomb, there is no way you can unleash her." He declared
Or is she?
Despite the bravado he displays but Aaron internally started to sweat. Could it be something happened? He knew that Echidna manages to escape from her seal in the end of volume 4 thanks to Emilia finishing the trial but... That was impossible to happen in here! The Trial is not something that easily can be done after all, there is the reason why it not accomplished by now and...
Could it be... One of the anomaly? Does another anomaly stumble unto the Tomb and follow the trial then accomplish it?
That thought makes Aaron's inside become cold. That actually not impossible. Things already different and he knew there outside factor that come with him in this World. So what stopping them from...
He quickly crushed that panic thought in instant it appears, he analyzes everything and trying his best to stay calm
'No... That was absurd. Let just said there another anomaly and they manage to release Echidna, why is Roswaal not helping them then? His goal is very clear, why his Gospel still related to me?' He thought internally
That makes him feel quite relieved as he realizes it means Echidna still in her prison. He doesn't want to deal with that woman after all, she will bring nothing but probably problem for him in future with her curious nature
"You're right." Roswaal said, his voice carries slight disappointment "My Mistress is indeed still in her seal." He confirmed what Aaron thought much to the blond further relief "However the thing is, the role to free my Mistress is never mean for me."
Aaron's eyes widened at that
"What do you mean?!" He demanded
"I mean, I have another role to play instead of rescuing my Mistress like the future you know." Roswaal said, he crossed his arms and stare at the pseudo Saber in eyes with a smile, enjoying his surprised expression "And that role is to make sure you befriend with Emilia."
"Befriend with Emilia?" Aaron repeated in bewilderment "That... That... You're lying!" He accused, there is no way, there is no way such thing is... "It can't be! Your goal is-"
"I swear on my Mistress name, Echidna the Witch of Greek, I, Roswaal L Mathers, just spoke the truth." Roswaal said, his voice is nonchalant but there steel in there "And I know that you still going to call me a liar, however know that I don't care, I spoke of the truth, it was your problem to not believe in me or not."
Aaron's expression was akin like a fish, jaw opened, eyes wide. Then he clenches his mouth shut, his green eyes observing the clown magician with intensity, as if he wants to burn the man through his glare
"Let just say... I believe in you." He said through gritted teeth "What makes you so sure I will accept your help instead of killing you like I planned? And if your Gospel purpose is to guide you to befriend with Emi then..." Then it already empty before even the Hakugei mess
"It already blanks after we return from the Capital, yes." Roswaal chuckled "Making your existence known to the World? That actually the finishing touch, and after that my last instruction is to help you."
Aaron's fist become shaking as he clenches it more tightly, the gauntlet making a noise as it pressured under his inhumane strength
"As for why you shouldn't kill me? By any mean do that, I won't even try to stop you, do it, kill me. However, do you think it wise for you to kill me since right now I'm already done with you." Roswaal stated "Killing me will bring nothing but a problem since from now on I intend to help that half-breed to win the crown like original, you will need another noble to help you if I died, and that still not count the backlash that comes seeing how you will explain the death of Court Magician."
"Like I care about that." Aaron said coldly "Like I said, you have no use anymore, and even if you no longer plan to manipulate us but don't think I will forgive you for what you had done."
"Need I remind you that everything I have done makes you into better position now?"
"Is it change the fact you using us? No."
For all his calmness Aaron internally is very troubled. Things become very far from canon, everything went astray too fast! He just got back to the manor with intent to relax a bit and yet... And yet...
He grips Excalibur, still poised to the man neck, then he pulls it back in preparation, turquoise energy starts to leak out from the pseudo Saber body
"If you run, I will make it painful." Aaron declared coldly
Despite his life was threatened Roswaal still look calm and uncaring as he simply shrugged "So be it." He said "Do what you want."
"I will." Aaron answered with dark amusement
Then without hesitation he bring Excalibur horizontally, enchanting his arm with mana and-
"I wonder how Ram will fare after this though."
It takes everything Aaron have to stop his attack that already in midway, he pull out mana more than before and direct them to opposite direction of his attack, intent to stop his assault before it hit the target
A burst of wind appear from that act, sending the papers and everything on the Roswaal's desk to everywhere from the force, when the view clear, Aaron's hands that holding Excalibur was shaking and the holy sword itself already buried itself one centimeter to the court magician neck
"You... You..." Aaron growled out like an animal, his eyes filled with anger. It was thanks to his training in using Mana Burst so far that he manages to stop himself, even so he is still very tempted to slice the man head off "Ram... What do you..."
In response Roswaal only smirked, his hand wandering to his neck that wounded, he touches the injury without flinching and magic poured to it, the bleeding area started to glow before slowly dissipating as if they were never there
"You're not stupid Aaron, but your emotion still needs to be controlled, really." Roswaal chuckled "You are a good planner but your emotion often cloud your mind, do something about that and you will go far in future."
After that statement Aaron realizes what he means. Ram. Ram devoted herself to Roswaal isn't she? And if he killed the man before him, their relationship will become broken beyond repair
And he does not want that...
Ram... Ram might be a jerk and they're not in their best term right now but she is still a friend... Not to mention if it affects her then it will influence Rem as well...
...
...
He's done...
"You will pay for this one day Roswaal." He swore "Mark my words."
He knew he should stay longer, he knew he should make sure to press more info, but right now? Right now his head was too messed to deal with this, he has feeling he will behead this man if he stay in here any longer
So he turned around, dismissing Excalibur and began to walk away
He was just reaching the doorknob when Roswaal call him
"For your information, I will be leaving for few days tomorrow night."
The pseudo Saber halted in his steps, however he did not turn to face the clown magician who smirked
"Nothing funny this time, it was a real business, Emilia-sama got so many supporters lately and I have to talk with them. I was tempted to bring them here but I'm sure you won't like it so I decide to go to their place." Roswaal said
If you want to talk about Emilia faction status in politic or about returning to your World then it better if you did it tomorrow because I will gone again
That was what the magician hidden message and Aaron knew it
He did not respond and resume his walk, leaving the room and slam the door strongly, enough to make one of painting on the wall fell
Roswaal only chuckled at the sight of the powerful man that brooding
That was close, very close
Make no mistake, he did not lie that his role already done, his Gospel book truly already become blank, he has served his purpose, his Gospel no longer will guide him, from now on this is his own path
"Until our reunion, make sure you keep your eyes on him."
But it doesn't mean he will stop of course, the last instruction from his Mistress was clear, and he will follow it with all his heart
I screwed... Badly... Like really bad...
Roswaal Gospel... I never thought... I never thought it was... Oh who am I kidding, I mean, who the hell saw that? Who is a fan of Re : Zero would think that Roswaal's Gospel is guiding me to be close with Emilia instead of freeing Echidna from her seal?!
...
No... No... I'm wrong... It's...
Where should I begin? No, I... I...
Perhaps it from the beginning... From the moment I ignore the sign when prophecy about my existence...
I should know that was the first clue, the first hint that said I'm on a different universe, the first thing that should make me realize the biggest flaw of my thought...
My existence is expected...
My coming from here... It was expected... The higher being in this World already predicted that I will come somehow...
Volcanica with his prophecy, he knew that I will come to this World, not just that, he knew that I will be a Saber, have blood that same with his kin, he said, he knew I will come as Arthur Pendragon instead of normal Human
If that was not the big clue I don't know what else is, and what makes it very embarrassing for me is I don't even acknowledge that fact in first place. I simply brush it aside and think it matter to solve later without giving second thought
On my defense, at that time I was busy preparing against Petelgeuse and his men!
Then comes the talk with Gaia
In reality, the conversation with her is the most confusing thing among the other
I can... I can understand now why Roswaal's Gospel instruct him to make me close to Emilia. Not fully really, but I can understand why he got that instruction
Echidna knew I will come... Just like Volcanica, she knew at least part of her canon counterpart future, and thus she must know some way to free herself, however for some reason she needs me so she makes sure I was watched by Roswaal, that what I manage to get from my chat with that bastard moment ago
And we return to my conversation with Gaia
What in name of Gods happened five hundred years ago?
She said I had met Satella. How? How is that even possible? Where I met her? I clearly will remember if I meet someone like her! And not just in there, the way Gaia spoke... It really doesn't make any sense, it literally throwing off all crazy theory that Re: Zero fans have!
It doesn't matter how smart I am, doesn't matter how big the clue I have, the key is what happened in five hundred years ago if I don't know it then... I will never know what actually happened in this World
I lay my head on the pillow and sighed as I stare at the ceiling above me
It has been two hours ever since my talk with Roswaal. After I finished with him I go to bath that Rem prepared -she notices there's something wrong when I go out from Roswaal's office but I told her I need time alone for now and she gladly give me that- immediately and then went to the bedroom
I was intent to sleep when I lay on the bed but I found myself unable to do that, for some reason things keep stuck in my head and bother me so much
And I'm not complaining, it was really necessary, this so my stupid head realizes just what the fucking hell I missed!
Okay Aaron, look for the solution. Only a few people who truly know what happened five hundred years ago. If my guess is right, then it would be Pandora, Echidna, Volcanica, and Gaia herself. Those four is probably the only living being that knows what exactly happened from the beginning until now
Of course there's Roswaal, Beatrice, Puck and other people too, but they only know what happened four hundred years ago. They probably only know about the Witches and few things about Satella, they don't know what is the real twist in this World that makes it different from canon
But still... I know to learn about what happened in five hundred years ago I need to learn what happened four hundred years ago first, and I know two people that can give me info about what happened before Satella went insane
The thing is... How to approach them?
Roswaal? I'm still wary of him, he might say he is sincere want to help me from now on but I sure as hell he still has hidden agenda. Asking help from him is not good choice seeing what kind of man he is, and that also not mention I'm very tempted to cut him into two when I see his face
Puck? Very uncertain, frankly it already more than a week and I still hasn't seen his face. Make no mistake, he still exists, I aware he chat with Emilia -she told me after all- but since I'm busy lately -I was unconscious and on Capital remember- I don't get chance to talk with him, and he only can come out from morning to afternoon. Not to mention I doubt he remember much seeing he make pact so he got his memory sealed
Beatrice? Well... Well... It will be awkward... I mean, we both are not close. Seriously, among other, my relationship with Beatrice is the worst. While I dare to say that she thought of me as friend, but I don't think she will tell me about her past, mostly we only enjoying each other presence, we both are simply brooding buddy, not close at all
Making move to her right now will result in nothing and forcing things...
No, I can't think like that, such way of thinking is what makes me into this mess right now. I'm too passive, too hesitant to make a move, too soft, and look what happened because of that
I can't keep act like this, I have to take risk
Tomorrow I will visit Beatrice and ask for an answer. My relationship with her probably would be damaged, but it will be worth it, it can be fixed with time, this information meanwhile cannot
With that plan formed in my mind I nodded to myself before pull my blanket and close my eyes, entering the dream World
...
...
At least that was what I thought
"Sweet Wolgarm's yellow piss!" I grumbled as I rolled in my bed and snuggle further to my pillow, trying to sleep
It was as good as trying to kill sun using a bucket of water as I found myself keep opening my eyes. Make no mistake, I'm exhausted and tired, but my mind for some reason as clear as summer day
I let out a sigh and raise from my bed, sitting while clutching my blanket. Of all time to get insomnia... Why it has to be now?
Knowing try to go back to sleep will be useless I decide to go take some drink, I reach for the table that located near on my bed and took the water
As I drink the beverage I notice my book that laying there innocently. Instantly I reminded one of the purposes I'm going home. I quickly glance at the nearest clock and notice it was quite late, right now possibly everyone already goes to their bed
I put my blanket away and took my book, flipping it to find particular page
#Congratulations! You have survived through Arc Three! You manage to kill Petelgeuse without dying once and not end in there but you also EEEXUUUCAAARIBAAAA (っ`O´)っ-|~ •Ϟ•-̶-̶̶•̸Ϟ•-̶-̶̶•̸Ϟ•-̶-̶̶-̶̶•̸Ϟ•-̶-̶-̶̶•̸Ϟ•-̶)))))) Cthulhu himself! Or at least something that looks like him! Though you died once in the end because of your stupidity and foolishness so it minus points in that regard okay?! Here the reward you waiting for! Stamp on the below using your blood to receive your gift!#
... For some reason it still annoys me to read this note, especially that Excalibur symbol, no, seriously, what the heck with that emoticon anyway?!
I let out a sigh and bring up my thumb, I summoned Excalibur and used it to nick my finger, drawing some blood. Then I dismiss the holy sword and pressed my bloodied thumb to the paper
FLASH!
A flash of light appear like I expected and I close my eyes just in time so I'm not blinded by it like the first time. However much to my confusion unlike the first one, this light seems longer and brighter, I feel like closing my eyes in front of lamp directly
It about ten seconds perhaps that I feel the light started to diminish. Slowly, I rub my closed eyes before opening them
And my jaw dropped in instant at the thing that lay before me
I know what this thing is...
It made from metal with fabulous design, covered and garbed almost like an armor while having two wheels that bigger than the normal one. Two small orbs located around it 'head' making them looking like 'eyes' while in reality it is not
It takes everything I have to not squealing like a girl as I see what stood before me
You know Yamaha V-MAX that Saber used? That is what in front of me now but not normal one. It was the one that covered in Saber's platinum armor! Jesus Christ and sweet mother of Alaya! Look at this thing! Gods I had seen it in anime but to see it in reality and directly like this!
Without realizing it I already touch the motorcycle, rubbing the platinum armor that covering the vehicle, my eyes peering over the marvelous object before me. Gods, it was so smooth! So clean! Look at this! So well-polished!
I raise my legs and ride the motorcycle, and in that instant I knew, I knew how to ride this majestic steed, I knew how to ride this beautiful vehicle. My eyes peered to the key that latched to the keyhole of the motorcycle and I feel my hands twitched to it
Fortunately I able to snap out from my dazed and dreamy state as I realize turning motorcycle in this house at middle of night is clearly not a good idea, I'm trying to be discreet after all
So with heavy heart I get off from my vehicle, huffing my cheeks like a petulant child while doing that
Then I realize another thing
"Oh fuck!"
How in name of Kaleidoscope I'm going to hide this?!
I consider running around in a circle in panic as I realize I just summoned a motorcycle in my room. How in name of Gods I'm going to explain this to everyone?! My cellphone is one thing but a motorcycle?! Not to mention if I have it why I never use it until now?! This vehicle clearly can be very useful!
God damn it! Should I hide this in the bathroom? Somewhere in the manor? Geh! No, no, no, that was illogical and stupid move! This thing is too big to not be seen and...
The book!
I quickly walk back to my bed and pick the book, flipping it open, I search for the page that gives me reward
#Congratulation you just got Yamaha V-MAX! A Motorcycle that used belong to Arturia Pendragon! And not end in there, this one is magically modified! It already on "upgraded" state, you can combine it with your armor and see what surprise you will get! And to make it easier to use, it also can be banished and summoned like how Rider-class Servant calls their steed! Its power source is mana of course, it speeds limit also able to reach or even surpass the speed of sound giving enough time. Of course to reach that level it will cost very big of mana, and using this machine itself already quite a lot, so for other sake don't let them use it!#
"Thanks, Teppei and Nasu." I breathed out in relief as I finish reading the instruction. So it can be dismissed like Excalibur and my armor, this is very fortunate, this book apparently more helpful than I thought, thank you!
I glanced at the vehicle once again, this makes things easier. Alright, let's see how I can banish this. If it works similarly like Excalibur and my armor then...
I close my eyes and then extend my sense, I leak mana out from my whole body, trying to stretch to my surrounding
To explain a thing, Sensing is... In a way is a bit hard to describe. When I focused like this I feels like there sensation around me, ranging from cold to hot, and if I focus enough, it makes me able to make myself seems like standing in front of them directly
Just like what I did now
I let my mana coating the whole motorcycle, for a second I was surprised to feel it seems responded to my energy, it seems accepting my mana. I brush that particular sensation aside and keep focusing, I imagine the lake that I always thought when I pull and call Excalibur or my armor, this time I imagine it larger and then I let the lake engulf the motorcycle, I feel the vehicle sink into the water and carried by the wave
I reopen my eyes and find the motorcycle no longer stand before me
"Yes!"
I pump my fist to my chest, feeling satisfied it worked. I then close my eyes again and started to dig to my mind, I search for that particular lake, I look for the motorcycle and I found, I can call it, just like what I did to Excalibur or my armor, I can feel it will answer my call if I did so
Smiling in satisfaction, I take few steps back before slumped in my bed. Wew, that was quite something, even if I didn't do anything much but the tension leave me slightly exhausted to be honest
Now I feel I can sleep...
Unfortunately, I can't sleep, not yet at least
#By destroying Prelati's Spellbook, Artifact of the Servant of Magecraft you manage to gain it power! Congratulations! Do you want to Install Caster-class card? What Heroic Spirit you might get? That would be a surprise of course! Please noted that you can't change back to your original class for one day when you install it for the first time. And after that, there will be delay for about one hour before you can change between class#
I stare at the Caster-class card that plastered on the page. The first installation I won't be able to change back to Saber for twenty-four hours, I will stay as Caster as it installed inside me, then afterward I could change back. The next time I want to change from Caster to Saber or the opposite, there will be delay about one hour
It only four hours before morning... Five hours -six at best- before Rem come to wake me...
Might as well get it done
I pluck out the card and observe it while sitting in bed, staring at the hooded figure that displayed. Now... How to active this?
"Caster-class Card, Install?" I said uncertainly
That apparently the correct words as the card began to shine brightly, so much to the point it feels like blinding me permanently
The last thing I thought before the light engulf me fully is I should expect this and the next time I have to close my eyes before accepting what this damn book give to me
It has only one purpose
It only live for one goal
Anything else does not matter, be it in spiritual or physical, it does not matter
For it purpose is only one and only one
It doesn't care about joy, for what is a joy if one doesn't have time to enjoy it?
It doesn't feel any fear, for what is need to fear if one already knew how it would end?
It doesn't care about joy, it doesn't care about fear, it doesn't care about anything. Nothing is matter after all...
For it live only for one purpose...
And that... Is to become Miracle...
Rem was not having good days to be honest
Ever since she got back to the manor with lady Emilia, things actually not looking good in the estate
Make no mistake, her relationship with lady Emilia is fine, as matter of fact, Rem sure she got closer to the half-elf in a certain way. Lady Emilia becomes braver, dare to make decision or act and also more serious in her study. Despite she missed Aaron -obviously, Rem, herself also missed him- but she stays strong and focused on her duty
She really has grown so much from the girl that arrives in manor for the first time and working as maid
But it ended only in there
While lady Emilia seems to become brighter and determined, the same thing can't be said about her sister
She doesn't know what happened but when she arrived back, she notices her sister seems become more... Burdened... She seems in very deep stress and looks lost. True she becomes brightened when seeing her but she...
Then there's another matter with lord Roswaal as well
Lately Rem's opinion about her Lord started to... Wane
She still thinks highly of him of course, Roswaal has taken her and her sister to his house and take care of them after all, so she will be in his debt and gratitude forever. What she means is lord Roswaal behavior recently seems become more amiss and... Questionable...
Under normal circumstance Rem would never think of something like this, Roswaal is her Lord after all, he has done so much for her and her sister, and Rem could careless what people think about him
But lately she started to see things more... Wide. More open and big. Perhaps it not just lady Emilia but she, herself, also started change, and Rem feel the change is actually... Good. The change clearly brought positive result, Rem had no doubt about that
Rem is loyal to lord Roswaal, yes, the man has saved them from terrible fate after all and helping them to get their revenge on those who responsible for killing their kin. However, lord Roswaal never guides her, he never shows her the path when she loses, what he did in reality, is trading a deal. They agree to help him and he will help them in return, she remembers that very well
No, the one that opens her path and eyes is someone else, and his name is Aaron Pendragon
A stranger who comes barging to their simple life, a man who doesn't know anything and nagging her endlessly, a man who instill fear to her heart with the power he radiated, a man who pulls her from her darkness and show her the bright light of the World
A man who has melted her frozen heart ever since that fiery night
And all that he wants is only their friendship... He does not expect her to become his lover, become his subordinate, he only wants their friendship
In reality Rem aware that Aaron Pendragon not doing that with pure intent, he has his own hidden agenda, he has his own secret, she is not that naïve after all, and her sister make it clear by calling Aaron Pendragon as Knight with Two Faces
Such epithet actually not wrong, because unlike the normal Knight who is noble, chivalrous, and honorable, Aaron Pendragon is different. He behaves nobly and with honor, yet he does not hesitate to abandon them and use other methods if things come down. What makes it so unique is that when he shows his noble and chivalrous side, it was truly sincere, he is truly like a Knight that even would make any King proud. However he can throw away that kind of personality as if it never exists, as if he is different person
Truly Aaron Pendragon is very extraordinary person to capable showing such behavior
However despite having two faces like that, there is one thing that both faces share
Aaron Pendragon is a good person
No matter which faces he wore, in heart he is always hard-working and unrelenting man. For all the powers he have, he is still humble and never stop pursuing, he has very strong mental principle
And that what attracts Rem to him
Such amazing person... So when he returned, Ren was hoping that he can help her sister who seems eaten by her own conflict as well. It was clear that she is troubled by something, from the way she serves lord Roswaal and doing a chore... She is more withdrawn than usual
But such thing did not happen, Rem can tell when he goes out from lord Roswaal's office Aaron did not look happy at all, instead he seems very troubled by something
Rem knew and believe that in the end, Aaron will able to solve it, just like how he face many problems that thrown at him, but she can't help to feel slight worry
If Aaron behaves like that after talking with lord Roswaal... Then the problem would be lord Roswaal himself. She concludes that because from observing how her sister behaves around lord Roswaal, where she usually enthusiasm and have a fire in her eyes, now she seems to become... Dull
It reminds her of when they just arrive at manor for the first time
And that scare Rem so much...
'There's something... Something about Roswaal-sama that Aaron-sama knows. There's a connection between the two of them, and whatever it is, it causes a problem for Aaron-sama.' She thought as she takes a turn in the corridor
Should she ask him? Things seems went to bad direction after all, and Aaron might need her help, and as her maid, it is her duty to assist her master
Of course it has nothing to do with her wanting to spend days with him privately and able to working together alone often where there will be a lot of opportunities to explore their relationship further. Nope, not all, her intention is pure and genuine, who would say the opposite with angelic smile she has? Shame on them!
Yes, she decides it will be a good idea to ask to him what is happened between him and lord Roswaal. She gives mental pat to herself for coming to such brilliant conclusion
She stopped when arriving at her destination, she takes a breath and make sure she looks proper as always -and better hopefully- before knocking the door
"Aaron-sama, this is Rem." She called "May Rem come in?"
No answer... To be expected actually, Aaron is quite a heavy sleeper, he is a bit hard to be awakened but just in case
She knocks once again, louder this time "Rem will come in, Rem take it Aaron-sama is decent, yes?"
It will be better if he's not actually but... Let tone it down a bit. She doesn't want to scare the man she love very much after all, albeit his expression when flustered is very cute and adorable
If only she can have metia like his "cellphone" that able to cut a fraction of the time to memorize his adorable face forever... Haaah...
"Rem will come in." She declared when receiving no answer from the blond
She opens the door while humming in low voice, a smile plastered on her face when she caught sight of his blond hair from the blanket. She approaches the man she loves and start to shake his shoulder
She blinked when she got a grip on his body. It was thin... Small even...
"Aaron-sama?" She said, a mixture of call and question. She narrowed her eyes and flexing her fingers, feeling the man's body and found her suspicion was not her imagination "Aaron-sama, are you okay?"
Concern start to fill her heart, she wastes no time to spin the man body to her direction and remove the blanket to get better view of his state
And get it she did
She let out involuntary gasp, her eyes widened, her mouth opened in shock as she stares at the blond state before her
"Aaron-sama?" She called in shock
The blond in bed meanwhile groaned as he feels the loss of his blanket, he twitched once before he slowly rose, from laying to sitting position, he tilts his head and open his eyes blearily
"Rem?" He called
Rem did not reply, she simply stared at him with unchanging shocked face
The blond though pay no attention to that, his mind still dizzy and his hand moves to do his daily routine, reaching for the girl's cheek. Heh, what a cheeky -cheeky, get it?- girl, standing quite far so he can't get his price, it won't stop him. He shifts his body, using his knee to support his body and reach for the maid
And surprisingly he got her, she offer no resistance as his fingers latched onto the maid soft cheek
... Was it just him or her face was bigger?
His pinch seems to manage to snap the maid from her shocked state. She blinked once before she looks down, staring at the blond that feeling her cheek and she feels heat crept into her face slowly
"A-Aaron-sama...?" She called, voice barely squeak "Are you..."
"Mmm, what Rem?" He replied with a dazed smile "It's not like you to..." He trailed, his bleary mind seems finally register there something wrong, particularly to his voice. He blinked once before releasing his grip on the maid's cheek. He shook his head, banishing the daze and reopen his eyes "Rem, did my voice sounds weird to you?" He asked, then he blinked again when something else registered to his braid "Rem... Are you always this big?"
Rem feels she should be offended to be called that -no women like called fat after all- however giving the blond circumstance right now...
"No..." She said "Rem is not big, Aaron-sama..." She feels her cheeks warmed again as she stares at the person she loves, his wide green eyes that adorable "Aaron-sama is..."
Aaron frowned and stare at his hands, then he stares at Rem. His gaze lingering to the oni for few seconds before returned to his hands, then to her again, then to his hands again
Then he looks down at himself
"What the..."
He gawked as he stared down at his body. The sleeping outfit that he wore now is bigger than his, it very loose, almost like a blanket instead of robe
'It can't be! Don't tell me...' He thought as he hopped down from his bed to the floor
"Aaron-sama!"
The maid call was ignored as he carries his tiny feet, he went to the nearest mirror, and much to his horror and shock, what he actually thought is really happen
The one that stares back at him in mirror is not handsome man with regal appearance and figure that would make any men or women entranced in awe, instead it was a boy, no older than twelve years old at best with skin that pales almost like albino, wide green eyes that look adorable and blond hair with single strand that stands out
"ZELRETCH KALEIDOSCOPE ROTTING BALL! WHAT THE FUCK?!"
Strings of curses echoed in Roswaal's estate, making birds and nearby animal scurried away from the place
Meanwhile, Rem staring at the boy with dazed face, red cheeks and strange smile
'Rem think Rem just saw a new wonderful World.' She thought with dreamy expression
Elsa let out a hum as she stares at the place of the person she looking for. It was dirty. It was dingy. It was a place that seems not fitting to be used as living place. It was a bit hard to believe that someone with... Such reputation live in here
Nonetheless her informant -a man who have lovely guts- has told her about this place, and this is the sixth that she manages to find, and all of them before was also looking similar like this, albeit they are seems in better condition
She stares at the old door, the wood look going to fall anytime, briefly, she thought would it be broken if she knocks it. She banish that thought, it was irrelevant, she decides to act and did what think moment ago, knocking the door
She stopped before her fist reach the door and smiled
"My, my, is that how you treat a lady?" She asked in melodic tone
"You've been a nuisance for me in last two weeks." A gruff voice replied from behind her "Looking for me so blatantly. I'm so tempted to kill you straight for doing that, tell me oh Bowel Hunter, why should I not kill you now?"
Elsa smirked, despite the situation she seems not bothered at all "Well, truthfully I don't know how to call you out. There many that said your existence itself is only a rumor you see, and I'm in a bit hurry so..."
She can tell the man behind her sneered in response "So you start murdering people while slipping paper inside their butchered bowel that you looking for me? What a way to make first impression."
"One must enjoy the job they have if they want to keep happy." Elsa replied simply with sing-song tone
"Hmph, some that you killed is one of my network, replaceable he is, but he still had his uses, and you took him from me. Tell me why I shouldn't cut your neck now."
"Someone else already did once, yet I'm still here."
"Oh trust me." The man lets out a small hiss, his voice is vindictive as he moves his sword closer to her neck "You won't return from this one."
Elsa briefly looking down to the steel that threatened to cut her neck, while the color itself is odd for a blade but it is not what caught her attention, her eyes narrowed and she observes the weapon further
"That was a very unique sword." She stated "Where you get it?"
"Is it matter?"
"No, not really, I'm just curious." She chuckled "I want to hire you." She stated, straight to the point
"Hire me?" He asked "For what?"
"Nothing much, assassination and things like that, or at least buy me enough time to snatch my target."
"You're assassin Bowel Hunter, such things are not supposed to be hard with your skills, trust me, your reputation is not so secret like mine after all."
"True, but my target is apparently too large, and it also comes from me personally." Elsa responded "And I don't want to ask my colleague, many of them have their own flaw." She moves her hand down, reaching for her pocket, she pulls out something, a folded paper and extend her hand to behind
The man took it wordlessly, his blade remains close to her neck and unwavering. His guard remain steady as he unfolds the paper and see the content
A drawing of beautiful girl with long hair, what caught his attention though is the pointed ears that stuck out from her hair
"She is Royal Candidate of King for Lugnica, currently she has what I want." Elsa explained
"And you want me to kill her?"
"No, well, not really. What you want to do with her is up to you, the thing I chased is her bodyguard."
"Bodyguard?" The man voice despite stoic there still hint of bewilderment in there "You want her bodyguard?"
"You must be heard it, there rumor about it already spreading after all. A Son of Dragon that founded the kingdom Lugnica." Elsa said with a small smirk "I want him to be mine."
"And why you can't do it then? If it was bodyguard..."
"That girl is no weakling, she has contract with spirit, a powerful one, I will not be able to defeat her by myself, and her bodyguard also strong, unrefined and rough, but if he manages to land a clean hit to me once..."
She will die... There is no mistaking that, she will die if that sword manages to cleave her into two, her regeneration will do nothing. The fact that her arm that until now still have scar and feeling hot sometimes is proof that the sword he uses is weapon on another level
"Distraction... That was what you want... You want me to isolate one of them while you taking care the other."
"Yes."
"Why me?"
"I heard until now you never fail in a job, and I don't want to take a risk so..."
"You don't want to hire other because you are too greedy and want the blood of that man only for yourself right?"
Elsa's lips twitched upward, curled to smirk that revealing her fang, for a moment her eyes flashed to crimson before returned to the original color
"You knew."
"I'm no stranger to your kin, Vampire." He replied with jeer "I should expect no less from a creature like you."
"Will we have a problem then?" Elsa asked, her fingers twitched once, a sign of warning and preparation
"... No, we will not."
Then the sword lowered, and for the first time since their conversation, Elsa can feel the man behind her no longer show any sign of hostility to her
She spins and face the man, her recent ally who glanced at the picture she gave to him
"Hoo, you're not that bad looking." She commented in silky voice
"I'm flattered." He replied in a voice that opposes his words. He folds the paper and returns it to her "I will help you, let's go, I know a place where we can discuss this further." He ordered as he tilting his head and turn around then began to walk
"Hm? We won't have chat in there?" She asked, gesturing to the old house while start to follow him
"That's not where I live."
"Hmm, I see, just I expected." She chuckled "Then may I know your name? Or would you prefer to be called by what people call you?"
"Just call me like what other called me."
"Very well then, Executor."
A simple title, yet, it carries heavy meaning, and Elsa truly believe that word is very fitting to the man that currently led her
After all... He is killer at heart...
Before I write Author Note and talk about this chapter there's something I want to say first
\(^_~)/ MERRY CHRISTMAS \(~_^)/
AND
\(^o^)/ HAPPY NEW YEAR 2018 \(^o^)/
TO ALL OF YOU
MAY IN THIS NEW YEAR, ALL OF YOU BLESSED, THOSE WHO WORK GET RAISES, THOSE WHO RECENTLY MARRIED BLESSED WITH HEALTHY CHILDREN, THOSE WHO IN STUDY SUCCESS IN THEIR EXAM, THOSE WHO SICK GOT CURED
Happy New Year 2018 everyone! Yaaaayy
Now that out of the way
I was tempted to write Jingle Bell lyrics but I think that was too cringy so...
Anyway, let's focus to this chapter! I have limited times after all!
Right, so here is where everything change, the result of the wave that has been built. As you can see it actually started from very long ago, like really long. Roswaal who stand before Aaron is not the same Roswaal that stand in front of Subaru. No, the different start from their Gospel, where Roswaal in canon want to release Echidna, this one is not, he has different goal and plan entirely
He already reaches his goal, he plays everything very well, yeah, why are you so surprised? Roswaal is someone who has been around for four hundred years, he has countless experience in manipulating or such things, if not someone will be suspicious enough with him by now
As for the background of Gospel... That was purely made by myself, what else can be fit other than the cliche genocide? It was made clear that everyone afraid of the Witch Cult Gospel, but the reason is never told other than people become crazy when reading them. In here, I give just exactly like in canon, except I add more spices
The gift, Yamaha V-MAX, was it a surprise? A lot of you ask about it and here it is, our favorite vehicle that Saber ride. Now it belongs to Aaron as well! Congratulations man! You got a very cool motorcycle! Now, if only I got one as well...
Though he becomes shota after installing that card, lol
Then we also see Rem POV and got the big picture what happened when Aaron away from the manor, how she reacts between Roswaal and Aaron. I also try to dig deeper into the reason why Rem chooses the latter over the former despite Roswaal already done so much for her. In a sense, Roswaal while have helped her and Rem but he never "save" her, the loyalty Rem have to him is more like duty than anything else, different from Ram
Speaking of Ram, we all know it will come down to this. I suppose it obvious why she is in distress now after reading this chapter, but if it still not then... Well, you all will find out in this arc
And lastly, Elsa make her move. Yes, she will be one of major antagonist in this Arc. Truthfully, it will be quite long just like Arc 3. The mysterious guy, try to guess who is it? I have felt some of you will get it right, to those who right will get extra prayer from me so you can succeed in 2018 lol! J.K XD
Aaron's Caster Heroic Spirit? I already left a clue in here, it will be revealed later of course but for now, try to guess it! The hint is quite enough in my opinion so it shouldn't be that hard
Well, I guess this is it for now, I hope you love this chapter! Next one will be a reaction to ChibiAaron and more interaction in Roswaal's Manor! Stay tune and keep reading if you curious about it! And don't forget to give this story Favorite, Follow, and Review
Ja Ne! XD
P.S : Unfortunately for some reason my beta can't be contacted and he never response to my PM, so it mean I will need another beta. And the last one was pretty good, damn
Omake #4 : To Achieve a Miracle. Part II
#Too long for my taste, sorry can't be helped, my hand just can't stop typing when I write battle scene XD#
"Checkmate..."
Shirou let out a ragged breath as he tries his best to suck air that moment ago got kicked out from his chest. His fist clenched, he glared up at the man clad in blue tight armor and carrying long crimson spear that stands before him with defiant look
"That last move was a pretty surprising boy..." Lancer stated as he recalls how the boy struck him, he then lowers his spear a bit and put on a thoughtful face "Though I don't understand. You think fast on your feet but you are hopeless at Magecraft... You still seem to have a knack for it..." He narrowed his eyes, observing Shirou with keen eyes, like a hound watching over their prey last stand "Maybe you were meant to be a Master originally..." He then shrugged before readying his spear again "Well, even if you were meant to but this is the end for you..." He finished as he prepared to strike Shirou down
Shirou glared at the spearman with anger on his face. He had been saved once already and just like that, the same man comes after him and kills him again. The sheer unfairness of dying twice in one day in the exact same manner is infuriating. After everything he had managed to live through, after everything he had endured to approach the ideal of a hero of justice, he was going to die like he was nothing more than an insect.
"Screw this..." Shirou muttered as he struggled and moved his body in sit motion, glaring at Lancer, he moved his hand to his chest where Lancer stabbed him before "My life was spared. My life was saved, so I'm not going to die that easily!" He yelled.
Unknown to him, the old magic circle behind him slowly began to glow due to his will to live.
"I have to live and fulfill my obligations and I can't do that if I'm dead..." Shirou murmured with a bitter voice as he recalls what happened ten years ago, the horror that scar his very soul, then he clenched his fist and slowly the blood on his hand turned into a symbol "I'm not gonna be killed, in a place like this!" He glared at Lancer who moved his spear to stab Shirou "For no good reason, by a guy like you who kills people like its nothing!" He roared strongly.
At that moment Avalon inside Shirou body starts to work. His magic circuits glowing in power and the ritual responded to his will to survive, the sheath called its sword.
The Sword of Promised Victory
It comes to answer the sheath that calling for them
A powerful and fast swing come out, just in time to repel the lightning pierce that about to end the boy life, following it was burst of wind that almost like a typhoon itself
Shower of sparks elicited from the clash of the weapons, the spearman eyes widened, not prepared for sudden assault at that level of strength, he is just in time able to maneuver his feet and decreasing the impact, instead of sending him to fly completely, he merely got pushed while his legs digging the ground roughly
Shirou looked up, intent to see the person that responsible for saving him, and when his eyes found them one thing crossed his mind in instant
Beautiful...
There is no other word that is not fit the woman before him. She is beautiful, so beautiful, even Rin Tohsaka who is known to be like idol in school is nothing compared to this woman
If she is some kind of Goddess, Shirou will even believe it
Garbed in golden armor that decorated with red fur, long silver hair that waving soothingly like a water in sea from burst of wind moment ago, pair of beautiful violet orbs that seems glowing in the dim room that only illuminated by moonlight through the window
"So you're the one."
Her voice is soft, melodic, angelic, just like her appearance. It enough to snap Shirou from his dazed state
"W-Wha..."
The awe left his mind as he
"You seems confused..." She said, her face curled into concern and she frowned "Same can be said to me, I..." She put thoughtful expression "It's same for me. There are many things suddenly come to my head." Then she shook her head and her gaze turned to sharp, her lips pushed into a thin line, making Shirou taken back that such beautiful woman capable to show that kind of face, a face that belongs to warrior "But it doesn't matter for now, we have another thing to take care of." She tilted her head to the door, to where the spearman moment ago got pushed away "Rem, take care of him, I will greet our guest."
"Yes, Emilia-sama."
A new voice reached Shirou's ears and he blinked before he gazed to where it comes from -from behind the swordswoman- and his eyes widened slightly at the other person appearance
She is maid...
That was what crossed to his mind when he saw the beautiful -not as beautiful as the silver haired woman but still good looking nonetheless- a woman that stood behind the armored woman. Her blue hair that long with bang frame over her right eye, wearing maid outfit and have her hands crossed over to the front, a posture of serving someone
"It's Satella, there's another person with us right now." 'Emilia' or 'Satella' corrected in instant "On second thought, you should call me Saber from now on."
Rem the maid blinked once "Saber, that is a better title, yes."
Saber gives nod while smiling at her, then she turned back to the door direction before jumping forward
"Wait!" Shirou yelled immediately as he pushed himself. Only to hiss as his knee buckled and make him lose his balance, a hand come to his aid and save him from fall. He turned and see the blue haired maid is the one who helping him
"Easy, you're injured." Rem said softly "Take a rest for a moment."
"I can't!" Shirou replied "She... She is facing that man!"
That man is strong, he is not Human, too powerful and too fast to be one, whatever he is that spearman is very dangerous. He can't let someone fight him just like that!
The blue haired maid merely quirked her eyebrow at him her eyes briefly darted to where her lady rushed before returned to him
"Not need to worry, Sat-I mean, Saber-sama is not weak, she is more than capable to defend herself." Rem assured "May Rem know Sir name?"
Shirou blinked in bewilderment despite the situation, did she just... "Emiya. Emiya Shirou."
"Emiya-sama." Rem nodded "This one name is Rem, it is nice to meet you, now stay still, Rem will heal you."
Oh yeah, she just addresses herself like a third person. What a strange woman
"No, you can heal me later." He shook his head "Right now that woman-"
"Emiya-sama, believe in Rem, Saber-sama can handle herself." Rem said again. She held back a sigh when she notices the boy remain unconvinced and have his eyes darted to where Saber moment ago, he looks like going to bolt out to there in anytime "If Rem take you to see her will it be fine?"
The boy's eyes snapped back to her and he nodded so fast as if his neck has no bone
"Fine, but please stay out from the battle Emiya-sama, let Rem heal you first before you decide to act." Rem declared
Shirou about to protest but the maid blue eyes narrowed and suddenly he feels his surrounding become cold, her grip on his arm that gentle also tightened slightly
Shirou might be dense idiot, but even he not that dense
"O-Okay." He agreed meekly
Rem stoic face turned to pleasant smile, bright and beautiful "Thank you for your understanding Emiya-sama." She stated "Now then, let's help you stand, Rem can heal you while you watching."
'Understanding my ass, you straight threatened me.' Shirou thought dully as he let himself helped to stand
Sparks and burst of wind whipped in the space as steel meet against steel. Crimson blood spear meet against the invisible weapon. Both weapons swung more than twenty times in less than two seconds. Each time they meet each other small kinetic wave created and shook their surrounding
'This woman...' Lancer narrowed his eyes as he swung his spear and blocked a jab attack, parrying it before counter it with the pommel of his weapon, only for the woman counter it back using horizontal slash after maneuver her sword 'She's not bad.' He thought with small grin
This woman is good alright. She is beautiful, one of the best women he has ever seen in his life -and that means something giving his youth time- and she knows how to fight. All the strikes she delivers is accurate and filled with sharp precision. None of them filled with wasted movement
And yet, they're weak
The attacks while enough to counter and parry his assault, all of them was that, just simple enough, and he still holding back no thanks to his asshole Master Command Spell. Is that mean this Servant's Strength is not that high? Is she depend on skill to compensate that?
Wait, is it just him or the attacks seems become strong-
However much to his surprise, the invisible weapon suddenly swung with more strength, a burst of mana accompanied it, increasing the power further. The spearman red eyes widened as he realize it despite it happen in blink of an eye and he quickly use the ground beneath him to support his stance
Only to feel his foot slipped
'Wha?'
He doesn't even get a chance to look down to find what is wrong with his foot as the sword comes down, and without proper footing, it smacked to his spear and blast him away like he is some kind of grocery bag that thrown
He twisted his body, regaining his balance, his feet digging the ground, desperately to stop his advance. He uses his spear to help him as well by stabbing it to the ground and make it act like an anchor. His eyes widened again when saw the woman coming, quickly he pulls himself using his spear and jump up, just in time to avoid horizontal slash from the woman that leaped to him
He grabs the shaft of his spear and he twisted himself while in the air and extend his legs, he aimed to knock the woman from behind with a kick. His attack hit their mark, his kick landed to the woman back but it seems not bother at all -much to his surprise, he was serious in that kick moment ago and it hit point blank- as she ducked and sweep his spear, making him lose his anchor before jumped and spin her weapon. Lancer quickly brought the spear while still in air and just in time to use it to block the invisible weapon that nearly cleaving him
However he is still in air and had no proper stance, and thus when the invisible weapon smashed to him, he got blasted away again, and this time the attack was more powerful and he slammed to the ground as if he is some kind of bowling ball
The blue spearman let out small groan as he pushes himself to stand, however he doesn't even get chance to do anything as he forced to leaped away, just in time to avoid another attack from his enemy
"Woah! Woah! Patient woman!" He yelled as he fixed his posture "Damn, you're really want to kill me huh?" He stated with grin as he stares at the beauty
For the first time since they fought, the woman stopped from moving, her violet eyes narrowed slightly "After you try to kill my summoner? Should it be surprising?" She asked back
"Point." Lancer snorted, his red eyes gleaming with mirth "But still... That invisible weapon of yours... It was sword isn't it?"
"Such a unique weapon, to be invisible like that. What is it if I may ask? A sword?"
Saber feel her lips twitched upward at the question, it brought back pleasant memory, and she gladly response the question with the same answer that the man she loved given
"Maybe." She said mysteriously, raising her invisible sword "Maybe not. It could be an axe. Or not. Maybe I have something completely different, like a bow." She declared
"Heh, very funny, swordswoman." Lancer replied sarcastically as he takes stance once again
In response Saber merely prepare her sword as well, ready to sprung forward any moment
"Before we continue, since this is our first meeting, would you be interested in calling it a draw?"
Saber blinked once, not expecting such peaceful offer "And why is that, Lancer?" She asked "Surely you're not scared to a simple woman like me."
"Simple she said, she was like dogs chasing bone moment ago." Lancer grumbled under his breath when he recalls their fight moment ago, no talking, no delay, she keeps pressing without end! What a scary woman "My Master right now only order me to observe, not engaged fully, and I already observe enough."
If it was at another time Saber will not let the spearman flee, she will pursue him and end the battle, however right now her head is not in right condition. There are many things she should think with new information that literally just crammed into her head
"Very well, we shall call it draw tonight." Saber agreed with a soft voice, her stance relaxed slightly "Go Lancer."
It's Lancer turn to blink, not expecting his offer to be accepted. He gives her grin and wink "Sure, thank you milady, you're really my type of woman. We will have fun on next date."
He immediately jumped back after saying that and enter astral state, become invisible to the World
Saber merely stared at where the spearman moment ago, then she shook her head and lower her sword. She glanced down while raising one hand, flexing her fingers as if testing their existence
'My body... Is it just me or...'
She feels strange... Her body... It was not as strong as it supposed to be...
Saber perfectly aware that she is not strong like Aaron, she is stronger, faster and more durable than most people, but she never surpass Aaron in raw power
She still remembers what Pandora said to her
"You will never be able to match Jormungandr, that was impossible. No matter how skillful and master you are, you will die against him. It does not matter of technique or weapon, if it was that what needed is then that man won't fall against him, he is pretty skillful after all, I doubt even the first and the last Sword Saint can beat him but he falls against that beast didn't he? No, what truly matters is the strength, Jormungandr can easily bring down building with a single punch and run faster than sound, what possibly skill can do in face of overwhelming power? Nothing other than delaying the inevitable."
That was absolutely right, in face of power that so overwhelming, what can skills do? The answer is nothing. Jormungandr power was too enormous to the point skills and technique become not matter to him. Truthfully if it wasn't for the armor she currently wore, she would be dead when Jormungandr struck her for the first time in their last battle
And because of that, Pandora offers to alter her body, an experiment
"Listen, you're special, only you who can possibly go through this because technically you're already dead, and thus your body will be malleable to be shaped. This won't give you extra strength, but it will make your body adaptable."
A body that will able to handle pressure of mana, a body that pressured by energy easily, a body that can be strengthened with magic almost without limit
That is the secret why she can trade equal blows against Jormungandr despite his monstrous strength, and even capable to carve injury in that monster when he transforms into his real form
The experiment not without cost of course, she cannot any longer talk or make contract and talk with spirit, her body has been twisted after all, the spirits no longer accept contract with her who has become anomaly as well
And if her body not as strong as it supposed to be then...
'The mana around here... It's... It's dry... And...'
Dying... This World... This World is dying as well... Just like hers...
She clenches her fist, making the gauntlet she wore groaned as she absorbs the mana from her surrounding further
'It will take a while before I can become strong enough, hopefully things won't go bad too soon.' She thought as she observing her strength
"See Emiya-sama? Saber-sama will be fine."
"Yeah, I can see that."
Saber turned, she saw her summoner and friend approaching her "Rem." She greeted "How our summoner injury?"
"Rem has healed him completely." Rem said "His name is Emiya Shirou-sama."
"Please just call me Emiya." Shirou said, he seems exasperated "Anyway, Saber right?" He asked "Just... What is going on? Who are you two? And how did you..."
"Well..." Saber also truthfully confused. Her mind itself also a mess. Holy Grail War, and there Seven participants with Seven strong people just like Aaron, that was all she knows right now
And their goal is-
She tensed when she feels another presence approaching, judging from the way Rem also stiffened the oni also sense it
"Saber-sama, there is something approaching." Rem warned the half-elf "They smell of iron and steel." She said in dark voice
Saber quickly moved forward and her sword raised "Emiya-san stay here, Rem prepare support!" She declared
"What?"
"Yes."
Without wasting any time Saber jump away, she immediately covered the ten meters distance and even reach over the fence, her eyes instantly found two people, a girl with black hair that styled into twin tail, and man clad in red coat with white hair
"Rin! There's Servant!"
Invisible blade went down with a powerful force, but it is not the girl the sword after, it was the man. The Servant of Bow had his eyes widened at the attack, not expecting him to be targeted despite he already prepared his sword. He raised his weapon to block it only for the attack to be stronger than he anticipated as he not ready, the sword slammed to Kanshou and it strong enough to force Archer's hand down, making the invisible blade grazing his chest
"Gugh!"
"Archer!" Rin screamed as she saw her Servant injured and staggered back
Saber clicked her teeth in distaste as she landed on ground, she immediately fell into stance and about to continue when she notices there something amiss, making her paused
"Servant of Bow..." She called, invisible sword pointed at them "For what purpose you come here?"
