A/N: What is up everyone! I am back with the second chapter of A Wizard's Fate. I hope you all enjoyed the first chapter as well as the Servant that our mahoutsukai earned. As some of you may know, I am taking my time with the stories I write so I can get it well written and checked over so please be patient. Also to give you a heads up, I will be making another profile soon (ShadowBladeSoldier) and the stories on that profile will revolve around stuff that doesn't involve Kamen Rider crossovers or certain JRPGs. Not to mention I have a special announcement which will be at the bottom Author's Note once you finish reading the chapter so look forward to it. Don't forget to check out my other stories including Remnants of Desires (Kamen Rider OOO x RWBY), Overwatch: Key of Destiny (Kamen Rider Gaim x Overwatch) and Chalice: The Wild Card Chronicles (Kamen Rider Blade x High School DxD).
Henshin!
'Thought'
"Phantom
Minotauros was walking down the docks of Fuyuki, rubbing the spot of his missing horn. While he did escape, it didn't change the fact he lost a horn to a mere Servant. His nose flared with smoke coming out of his nostrils.
"Damn it! Damn that Mahoutsukai!" Minotauros growled, "He stopped my plans…. Next time, I'll finish him off…."
"Ho? You lost to someone?" A voice called out, causing the Phantom to raise his head to the source.
"MasterPhoenix," Minotauros bowed upon noticing a figure by a railing. It was a humanoid with dark blue eyes, like a red and gold medieval knight with a large golden plume on his head. On his back was a massive sword as his eyes showed the feeling of a being who wishes to fight anytime, anywhere.
"You mind explaining how you managed to screw up after making that ruckus with the Ghouls?" The Phoenix asked. He turned to face Minotauros as the armored skin faded in red smoke and markings, revealing a man with short black hair and a matching moustache and goatee dressed in all red clothing.
"My apologies, but I was interrupted by unexpected guests," Minotauros explained.
"Oh? Was it those Masters and their servants?"
"No… it was a Magic User who ruined my plans… Footsteps were heard behind Minotauros as he took notice of the figure approaching. "Madame Medusa…" he bowed.
She was lovely as a Phantom to her kind as her human form was to humans. she stood proud and strong but still held a lovely figure with her body crafted to look almost like a uniform of some kind. A gold band hung on her hips which fell at her back like tails of a dress uniform. Her outfit was a styled pattern of black, white, and violet falling from her shoulders over her chest with a gold crest in the middle. Her shoulders were covered with gold beak-like shoulder pads which enhanced her intimidating posture. Her face was mostly covered by a violet helmet which was covered in reptile scales with her eyes shielded by a black visor. Her mouth was visible, her skin pale with with feminine pink lips.
"Was it the White Wizard?" She asked.
"No… this Wizard is a new one…"
This got their attention. While they were aware of the White Wizard, they never thought to hear about another Wizard but for Medusa, her smile grew.
What a coincidence indeed.
"Our mission will continue on," she assured. "To make sure we Phantoms make the Gates lose all hope, so that new Phantoms can be born."
She glanced at Minotauros as she changes into her human form. Her form was a very attractive young woman with flawless skin and long black hair. She was wearing a dress that hugs her body lovingly with a few bracelets on her left arm. "So that our leader will once again hold the sabbat to bring forth our kin and take the Grail."
"I understand," The horned Phantom bowed in understanding.
"If you do, forget about this new magic clown and get to work on the Gate already!"
"Yes sir." He bowed once more before leaving.
Once gone, Phoenix grinned, "so… another Wizard, eh?"
Medusa could only smirk, "Guess it explains why he was angered about not having a certain Phantom with us. White Wizard must have took this new Wizard in and trained him."
"Sounds like a challenge for me." Phoenix couldn't help but ancticipate a fight knowing that there could someone he can finally fight.
"Patience Phoenix, you will get a chance," Medusa assured, earning a huff from him.
"What about those Servants and Masters? They are loaded with more than enough energy that we can create special Phantoms."
"Our leader believes we will find the right opportunity to cause one to fall into despair, we simply need to find the right… trigger."
"Now that is what I like to hear," grinned Phoenix.
The Wizard's Fate
Chapter 2: Fight of the Minotaur
Morning arrived in Fuyuki City as the Antique store that Wajima owns was beginning to open for the day. For Enrique, it was his second day of his Trial to become a full-fledged Mahoutsukai. Upon waking up, he noticed Ruler was up and preparing food for him in his room. She seemed to focus and the smell of the food was great as it began to make him drool from the upcoming taste.
"Um… morning," Enrique finally spoke up.
"Ah, good morning Master." she smiled, handing him some bacon and eggs.
He blinked as the smell soon entered his nostrils, causing him to look at it. Grabbing a utensil, he soon took a bite and the moment it did, his eyes widened. He took another bite as a warm smile graced his lip. "This tastes amazing! Never thought to eat breakfast that tastes so good."
"Heh, truth be told, I used to cook a lot back in my times when I was on my own." She admitted.
He looked at Ruler as he set the plate by the nightstand. Upon hearing about her, he needed answers about this mess he was dragged into. While his master said that his magic is different than the others, it would still bring attention. However, he wasn't willing to let his guard down due to the Phantoms.
"Ruler, there are some questions I have been meaning to ask you." said the young Mahoutsukai.
"Of course Master," she nodded as she sat across from him.
"So… what is your role as a Ruler?" He asked, curiously.
"I am to act as a mediator, a referee if you will," she explained. "And I don't desire the Grail and I do not take any sides of the Grail War."
Hearing this gave Enrique some relief knowing that he won't have to deal with the wish that is given to the winner. He had no need for a wish and he had no desire to win, only to fight the Phantoms as part of his Trial. It is merelly a wish, simple as that.
"So you don't desire this 'Grail' and you're neutral for the most part?" He clarified. She nodded in response. "What else?"
"As a Ruler, I am given command seals for each Servant that is summoned. It is a formality so that I can evoke punishment amongst any Servant that goes against the War or the Grail."
Now, this surprised the raven haired teen. His master mentioned that Masters in the Grail War have a Servant but for a Servant to command other Servants? Now that was interesting and surprising to hear. Then again, his Servant mentioned she acts as a mediator to make sure the others follow rules. It would make sense.
"So… why you? If you are a Ruler class, then why appear now?"
"I don't know why, but it seems there could be future trouble for this Grail War. Hence why I was summoned."
"I don't blame you," He crossed his arms. "Teacher mentioned the Phantoms would try to use that Grail to automatically turn the world into Phantoms. Not to mention, they would try and make a Servant or Master who is naturally Gates fall into despair to make it easier to obtain it."
"Why would they want this? This is an insult to God himself!"
"Beats me," he shrugged. "My teacher said this Trial I am starting, I can't request his help and he cannot intervene any of my situations, I have to deal with the problems on my own. The only thing he is allowed to do is repair the damages of each battle to make sure no one knows what the Phantoms can do."
"So you are taking a test to truly become a wizard?"
"Pretty much," he shrugged. "I still have more to learn but hey, if I have to learn the rest on my own in order to pass, then I will do just that and not give up on my Hope, nor let others fall into despair."
"Master…" Ruler said softly before smiling, "Then I shall still assist you and saving these Gates."
"I know, you told me that yesterday," he sighed before raising his head to look at her. "Even if you are not on either side of the Grail War and don't desire it, you sure you want to help me fight the Phantoms?"
"If innocent life and the Grail are in danger. Then I must fight to my last breath." She bowed to him.
He scratched his head for a moment before he sighed, "Alright… Teacher didn't mention about a Servant helping me… some loophole… What about these rules?"
"The rules can be summed up as either kill the Servants and send them back to the Throne of Souls or kill their Masters. Without someone to supply the Servants Prana, the Servants will disappear. Other than that, there are no rules against making allies or what tactics can be used."
Enrique couldn't but frown at the thought of killing humans, or in general. Even as a mahoutsukai in training, his teacher taught him to never use the powers to kill or harm the innocent.
He stood up as he walks over to his bag and grab a fresh set of clothes. "Mind if you leave the room so I can change?"
"Of course." She nodded to me as she left the room.
The moment she left the room, he sighed with relief as he removed his black pajama shirt, revealing his chest but just as he was about to put on his new set of clothes, he took notice of a pair of glowing red eyes in the mirror. The feeling he knew as a frown marred his features.
"Shut it…" he frowned. "I am not giving up on my Hope and you know it."
If one was able to hear it, it was a growl of a creature before it faded away. He couldn't forget those eyes, the eyes of what dwells inside him. While he has acted more mature after the White Wizard took him in and helped him, he could never forget about the Phantom inside him. He still wonders what type of Phantom resides in him.
He will never give up on the Hope he held onto, he will not fall into despair again.
Taking a deep breath, he continues to remove his clothing before changing into a fresh set of clothes. While wearing the same jacket, he was wearing a simple gray shirt underneath and dark blue pants and black shoes. Once ready, he opened the door of his room and walks out to see Ruler already in her casual attire to fit in with the crowd.
"Since you are staying here, Ruler, just remember you will have to help Wajima around, okay?" He reminded.
"Of course, Master." She nodded.
"And please, don't keep calling me Master around others," He sighed. "Just call me by my name since we are friends."
"I-I shall try…" She nodded.
He smiled, "Something is better than nothing from what Teacher told me."
"He seems very wise…."
"Wisest one of all," Enrique smiled, recalling the times during the travels when White Wizard taught him so much about the history, the training, the reason to how he is now. "If it wasn't for him, I wouldn't have been able to become a better person." He glanced at Ruler. "Come on, I'm sure Mr. Wajima needs some help."
"Of course."
As time passed in the shop, Ruler was dusting off the armor, weapons, and shields that were stored up, making them shine like they were brand new which impressed Wajima.
For Enrique, he was by the register as he was fiddling with the four new Rings that Wajima made. He was curious to what they can do and their capabilities. Even more how the first three Rings look similar to his Flame Ring
'I wonder what these Rings can do…?' He thought with curiosity. While he does know some Spells, that being Connect, Please, and a few others he has in his arsenal, he still had to learn more.
Just as he was about to fiddle with the Rings more, he heard the bell of the door opening, causing him to put the Rings in his pocket.
"Welcome," Enrique called out as he heard the door open. The person who entered was a teenager who looks to be a year younger than him with short auburn hair and golden brown eyes. He was also wearing a uniform that looks to be from the local academy he drives by sometimes. But to Enrique, he could see something behind the teen's eyes that he was familiar with all too well.
Survivor's guilt.
"Ah, Shirou-san, you arrived just in time," Wajima noticed as he walked out of his little workshop and walks over to him. "Can you help fix the heater."
"Of course, Wajima." He smiled softly as he walked over to the heater as he began to tinker with it.
Enrique blinked before he walks over to Wajima, "You know him, Mr. Wajima?"
"Ah yes. He helped me when my hip gave out. Carried me 6 miles to the hospital." Wajima smiled, "This is Shirou Emiya."
He looked at Shirou who was fixing the heater. "So you're Shirou?" Enrique asked before he smiled. "Nice to meet ya."
"Likewise." He smiled, holding out his hand.
Enrique took his hand and returns a handshake. "I take it you are from the local academy?"
"Yeah," He then took notice of Enrique's appearance. "Ano… shouldn't you be in the Academy as well…?"
The raven haired teen shook his head, "I travel a lot so I learned through the places I go to. I was basically tutored."
"Oh…" Shirou murmured before he stopped the repairs and allowed Wajima to test it.
Wajima turned on the heater as it was finally working once again much to his relief. "I appreciate it, Shirou-san," Wajima thanked. "You are full of surprises when it comes to fixing things."
"It's nothing really," He admitted. "I should get going now."
"Okay, take care," Wajima waved as Shiro left the store.
"Master?" Ruler called out to him softly.
"Hm? What's wrong?" Enrique glanced at the blonde.
"That person who left…." She said to him, "That was a Master…"
"Eh?" He raised an eyebrow, "You mean… Shirou… is a Master?" Ruler nodded, causing Enrique to sigh heavily. "Well, that's one person to see… great…" He looked at Wajima. "I'll be heading out to look around to see anything of those Phantoms."
"Be careful."
He nodded before he opened the door and walked to his motorcycle. Putting on his helmet, he started the engine as the ignition roared out. "Never gets old," he chuckled to himself.
"Excuse me…" A voice called out, sounding feminine.
He raised his head as he saw through his motorcycle visor of the person who called out to him. Standing there was a young woman with blonde hair and giving him a cold glare.
"You're a Master…. Aren't you?" She asked him.
"Huh?" He flipped his visor up to see a clear look of her. "What are you talking about?"
"I can sense it. You're a Master, and your Servant is inside…" She glared at him.
He blinked before he realized who she is. The woman in front of him is a Servant. "Yeah, so?" He raised an eyebrow.
"So? So we must fight…" she glared at him as she got into a stance.
"Saber, wait!" A voice called out as Enrique turned and sees Shirou running up to her. He panted softly as he placed his hand on her, "He doesn't look dangerous. We don't need to fight him."
He sighed as he closed his visor, "Shirou's right since I have no interest in the Grail nor a wish."
"Then why are you a master?" She questioned, glaring at him, "And why… do I sense something dark within you?"
He flinched, glad his visor hid it. "It's nothing." He turned to the road. "And if you excuse me, I have something to do. Besides, a wish like that is pointless," Enrique admitted before driving away.
As soon as he left, Shirou sighed as he turned to the girl, "Saber… why did you do that? He's not a threat." He said to her.
"He is a Master," She frowned before glancing at the shop. "We should see who his servant is."
"No, I think you've done more than enough," Shirou said, taking her arm as he began to walk home, dragging her with him, spite her struggling.
From the window, Ruler took notice of Saber, watching the two leave since she is the mediator. Seeing them leave gave her some relief before she looks at the road upon where her Master headed to. She knew that her Master is searching for any sightings of that Minotauros to what his teacher labeled it. That being said, she needed to find out if any of the Servants have broke the rules and envoke punishment.
Out in the city of Fuyuki City, Taiga was walking around as she began to jot down the ingredients for tonight's dinner. She seemed to have gathered what she needed as she began to make her way towards the train station and head home.
Not to mention weird stuff has been happening as well as those deaths on certain parts of the city. While it bothered her, she still continued her days like any other.
Looking at the time, she noticed it was already 4:03pm. She sighed, while she enjoyed Shirou's company, she was still suspicious about the blonde. But for now, she chose to push that thought aside for now.
She just needed to get home as she began to make her way towards the train station. But as she does, she begins to get a creeping feeling that someone was following her. She turns around many times, only to see no one as she continue to walk, and continue to get that feeling.
As a former kendo student, she knew something was wrong. While she does know how to defend herself, it was still unsettling.. She increased the speed of her walking, heading to the train station very quickly.
Just as she made a turn, she bumped into something causing her to fall back. She rubbed her head, "Sorry about that." She then realized who she bumped into.
"Ah, Taiga. It's good to see you…." Standing there was her old kendo teacher. A soft smile on his face as she stood just as tall as she remembered.
"Oh, it good to see you sensei," Taiga smiled.
"Please Taiga, I'm no longer your sensei remember?" He reminded with a small laugh. "Is something the matter?"
"Sorry just in a hurry…" she replied. "I had the weird feeling someone was following…"
Her former teacher blinked as he looked behind her. "I don't see anything." He responded. "You sure you are alright?"
"Heh.. guess just tired is all…" She chuckled, "Why don't you come join me? I plan on making some dinner for me and Shirou. You know, Lil'Shirou from long ago?"
"Of course, isn't he enrolled in the academy you are at?"
"Yeah," she giggled. "Come, let's head there now."
"Thank you," he soon followed her but they were unaware of Kraken taking notice, causing it to float around in panic before floating to his master.
With Taiga, she looks over at her former teacher. "I'm surprised you are here too. Usually you don't come to the town often."
"Ah, I thought it would be good for a change." He responded.
"True." She smiled, "So, how's your wife doing?"
"She's doing well, but for our age we still continue on."
The brunette soon took notice of the home, "Well, looks like we are almost there." She smiled. "I'm sure Shirou and that blonde friend of his will arrive later."
"Sounds like you care about him," he observed.
"He calls me Fuji-nee," she smiled upon the memories. "Not to mention I still have the one thing that gave me a sense of pride."
"Eh?"
She reached in her pocket before presenting the item. "I may have been disqualified due to my bad manners, to which I admit, I won't forget that I managed to get a medal back before then."
"The medal of your first ever pro tournament?"
"Well yeah before the continuous disqualification from the bad manners I showed," she crossed her arms upon the memories of those days. "But hey, at least it shows I did something."
"So… that is your hope huh?" He said before grabbing the medal and ripped it out of her hands.
"Hey, why did you take that?" She grabbed hold of her medal, only to be shoved to the ground. She winced as she looks at her former teacher.
"I finally found out what your hope is, human." He grinned.
"W-What?"
Markings formed on her former teacher's face before he morphed into the same monster she thought she dreamt about. The Minotauros Phantom.
"As for your teacher, he died when I rose from his despair," Minotauros informed as he examines the medal. "But now… fall into despair, human." He showed her the medal before he used his strength to crush it into a metal ball, dropping it onto the ground and stomped on it repeatedly as Taiga watched in horror of the only item she cherished was being shattered.
*Ba-Dum!*
Taiga's eyes widen as she clenched her heart. She soon fell to her knees as everything began to feel like there was nothing left for her now. In moments purple cracks began to form on her body and slowly spread as she looked at her teacher, "W-Why…?"
"So a Phantom can be born and make this city and then the world fall into despair." The Phantom declared.
Before it can continue, gunshots sent the Phantom away from Taiga. He quickly looked to see who did it, only for him to see the armored Wizard.
"MahoutsukaiMinotaur growled. "How did you find us?!"
Wizard pointed up, causing the Minotauros to raise his head to see a small floating Kraken. "Thanks to my Familiar, he warned me that you went after Taiga. And now, it's time to settle this." He presented the Connect Ring before placing his hand over the Hand Author.
CONNECT, PLEASE!
The magic circle formed as he reached in before pulling out his weapon. "Raise the curtains coz it's showtime," he announced.
"Why you…!" The Phantom charged towards the Wizard but the latter raised his gun and fired a few rounds to stop the Phantom in his place before firing another set of rounds. The Phantom growled as he brought out his axe before rushing in once more.
Upon seeing this, Wizard converted his weapon to its sword mode and blocked the attack. "I won't fail this time, Mahoutsukai! The Gate will fall into despair!"
"Not a chance…" Wizard gritted as he blocked another attack as he struck the Minotauros across the chest.
"GRAUGH! Ghouls! End this mage!Minotaur shouted out as he tossed several magical rocks to the ground as they quickly form into the Ghouls.
"Oh great, this again…" Wizard complained before he kicked Minotauros away as he began to strike the Ghouls down but with how the area was, he was getting surrounded. He twirled the blade but the Minotauros punched Wizard in the face, sending him crashing to a wall.
"Ow…" he groaned before shaking his head to clear his senses. Just as he did, he saw the Minotauros charging right at him! He quickly moved to the side as the Minotauros rammed its head into the wall.
He watched as the Phantom tries to pull his head out of the wall.
Seeing this, Wizard focused on the Ghouls as he strikes them down m, each one exploding into flames. When the Minotauros finally pulled his head out of the wall, he turned around and saw only Wizard as the Ghouls were now gone.
Seeing this really angered him as he punched Wizard left and right, each hit creating sparks that cast off his armor.
"Grh…" Wizard grunted as he held back the pain from the hits as he stumbled back.
"You think you can win this? Well, you won't have a chance, Mahoutsukai! Nothing can change the results!"
'Change… wait…' he reached to his side and grabbed the topaz ring. The yellow, blue, and green Rings were indeed similar to his Flame ring, could it be a coincidence?
"Guess it is time to change things up a bit," He declared as he flips the switch on his belt twice before he puts on the topaz ring to his left hand, closing the metal part to it.
LAND, PLEASE! DO-DO-DO DO-DO-DON! DO DO-DO-DON!
A yellow magic circle appeared under his feet then traveled up his body, turning the ruby red portions of his armor topaz yellow, the sides of his chest armor turning into true squares rather than emulating sections of chest muscle.
The Wizard could feel the new power of magic. It wasn't like the flames he always conjures. He recalled a few lessons from his Teacher how a wizard can control the four elements: Fire, Water, Land, and Hurricane. Since it was yellow, he basically now had the element of earth. 'So that is why the three rings were similar to my Flame, they hold the respective elements'
"Impossible… you changed Elements!?"Minotauros uttered in disbelief.
"Heh, guess I can," Wizard chuckled as he took stock of his new change.
He then got into a pose, knowing to change his attack style as he moved ahead. Minotauros roared as he punched him, but while sparks did cast off, he barely felt a thing from the blow. He switched from balance to being a complete tank!
"My turn!" He kicked Minotauros with a spin kick, causing the Phantom to spin about 90 degrees to the left before the Wizard leaped back to deliver a slash with his sword.
Smoke flared from the Phantom's nose as he was now totally pissed! He looks at the young man as he scrapes his feet across the ground before charging towards him once more.
"Uh oh!" He quickly reached to his side and pulled out the Ring Wajima made. "It does have a symbol of a shield… might as well use it." He quickly placed it on and flips the switch again.
LUPATCHI MAGIC TATCHI GO! LUPATCHII MAGIC TATCHI GO! LUPATCHI MAGIC TATCHI GO!
Quickly placing his hand on the hand author, it scanned the new Ring.
DEFEND, PLEASE!
A rock barrier shot up in front of Wizard while Minotauros had to stop himself, only to fail as his head crashed through, being the only thing visible to Wizard. The teen titled his head as he poked Minotauros' forehead in amusement. "Guess you got your head stuck, huh?" He joked before he kicked the Phantom into the air.
He watched the Phantom fly in the air before landing face first on the ground.
"Had enough?" He asked the Phantom.
"T-This… is nothingHe said weakly.
"Well it is time for the curtains to fall, Phantom," Wizard declared as he hits the switches on the sides, using the Flame Ring once more.
FLAME, PLEASE! HII HII, HII HII HII!
Once in his Flame form, he flips the switches one last time.
LUPATCHI MAGIC TATCHI GO! LUPATCHII MAGIC TATCHI GO! LUPATCHI MAGIC TATCHI GO!
Wizard presented a Ring that had the image of a dragon and a foot before he placed it on. Once on his finger, he passed the ring on his right hand over the belt again.
CHOINE, KICK STRIKE! SAIKO!
A magic circle appeared beneath Wizard's feet, channeling up his legs. Moving to a crouch, he allowed his right foot to be covered in flaming energy. When it looked like his leg was actually on fire, he charged forward before doing a front flip on his hands which positioned him with his back facing the Phantom. He then kicked off the ground in a high backflip, positioning himself for a corkscrew kick. The Phantom was too injured to move as a red magic circle appeared above it. Wizard came down with his foot extended, striking the center of the circle. The entire construct ignited with fire energy before stretching to allow the blow to land on the Phantom's chest, passing through him.
Wizard slowly stood up as the Phantom cried out in pain before exploding into flames.
With the Phantom gone, he now realized Taiga's situation. He rushed over to her as he noticed the cracks continuing to grow. "Taiga…" he called out.
The teacher slowly raises her head to see the Wizard. "That... voice…" she recognized.
Wizard didn't speak for a moment as he gently placed his hand on her shoulder. "Taiga, remember when someone told you that you can always put your hope into those you trust?" He reminded. She nodded weakly as more cracks formed on her body.
The Wizard reached to his side before presenting her a Ring with his symbol over an orange gem. "Then trust me and allow me to help you hold onto your hope." He responded.
He slid it onto her finger and held her hand over the Hand Author over his belt buckle.
ENGAGE, PLEASE!
Taiga fell unconscious the moment it was scanned as a magic circle appeared over her. Wizard levitates and hovers over the circle and dove into it, traveling through a tunnel of magic circles in a purple background.
'My first step…' Wizard thought, knowing this will be his first fight within someone's Underworld. Once the magic circle formed, he landed on his feet before he observes his surroundings.
"So this… is an Underworld…" he commented as he looks around.
"Sensei!"
Wizard turned as he saw a younger Taiga run up to the teacher who became a Phantom. She had a bright smile on her face, flowers in hand and a medal around her neck.
"I did it! I won Sensei!" She said happily as she held up the medal.
However, it soon froze as purple cracks formed in front of him before shattering, a Phantom emerging from the frozen scene.
The Inner Phantom that emerged was large and on all fours. It looked like a tiger with golden fur and black stripes. It had large saber teeth and also horns on its head that crackled with electricity.
A Raijuu, the mythological thunder beast.
"Well… look what the cat dragged in," He joked.
The Phantom snarled as its horns began to spark before unleashing an electric blast at him, prompting him to roll away.
"Alright, guess it's time…" he pulled out a Ring but he grimaced knowing full well to what he will bring forth.
DRAGORISE, PLEASE!
A magic circle appeared above and a dragon burst out of it. The beast looked more mechanical than flesh, covered in white armor with gold claws and horns, small wings, and a gemstone on its chest. It was his Inner Phantom, a Dragon.
A Dragon of all things.
To Wizard, he was a bit shocked to see his Inner Phantom for the very first time. His Phantom being the source that he draws his powers from. Memories of that day flashed back in his mind before he shook his head.
"Alright… Dragon let's take care of-" The Dragon flew right past him and began to attack the Raijuu, even attempting a few tries to kill him. It was practically hostile to both sides.
"Hey! I said to help me out, not cause more damage!" Wizard shouted but his words were only ignored as the Dragon was lashing out at the two.
It unleashed a breath of fire, causing him to take cover as he took deep breaths, feeling relief from almost getting burnt by its flames. "Why isn't he listening!?" He exclaimed to no one in particular.
He peeked from the wall, seeing his Phantom still creating damage to the area and to the Phantom. He didn't want Taiga to fall into despair. There was no way he was going to let it happen!
He was gonna teach that damn lizard a thing or two! "Alright, time to use what I learned from Teacher…." he declared as he puts on the Connect Ring.
CONNECT, PLEASE!
Wizard pulled his motorcycle out of the magic circle and rode on it towards the Dragon. "I can do this…" he took a deep breath as he kept his eyes on the Dragon while pouring his magic into the motorcycle.
A burst of magic from his body allowed him to leap into the air above the fight between the WizarDragon and Efreet Phantom. Coming down on the Dragon Phantom's back, the Machine Winger split into a pair of wings with only the handlebars and seat remaining. The machine came down and attached perfectly to the Dragon's back.
'Remember my student, your magic is the key to unlimited possibilities.'
Recalling his teacher's words, he grips the handlebars tightly as he roared out while revving the bars, "Dragon! I demand you submit to me!"
Before he knew it, his Phantom was becoming more docile as Wizard's magic allowed him complete control. "Alright…" he took deep breaths. "Let's do this, Dragon!"
Dragon roared in response as it flew towards the Raijuu as it was breaking more and more of Taiga's Underworld. Dragon rammed into the side of the enemy Inner Phantom, sending it sliding across the street. Roaring, Raijuu sent a blast of electricity from its horns to take down Dragon and Wizard.
"Up!" Wizard shouted and Dragon flew up to avoid the lightning bolt. "Now fire!"
The dragon reared its head back before unleashing a large fireball at the Raijuu.
The Phantom roared out in anger as it leaped onto the rooftop, taking its final stand. "Let's end that cat, Dragon!" Wizard declared as he brought out one more Ring to end the fight.
CHOINE! KICK STRIKE! SAIKO!
His Phantom roared before his motorcycle detached, promoting the Dragon to shift and transform into what looks like a large foot with its horns and claws taking the forms of talon toes with the rest forming the rest of the foot. Wizard connected his foot with the end, attaching himself as the motorcycle attached behind him, keeping him in place.
Once complete, the foot was engulfed in power as he soon dove towards the Raijuu Phantom.
"HAA!" The kick smashed against its head as the Raijuu exploded while the purple cracks soon vanished and Taiga's Underworld restored.
Wizard landed on his feet while Dragon returned to its own prison. For him, he glanced at the DragoRise Ring, "My Phantom… is Dragon…" he muttered before he grasp his the ring tightly.
Taiga's body was restored as the purple cracks vanished as Wizard soon left her Underworld and landed on his feet. Looking back at her, he noticed she was slowly waking up.
A soft sigh escapes his lips before he chose to walk away knowing his first task was complete. He actually defeated the first two Phantoms. While victory was true, his Mana was very low which gave him a need for a meal along with sleep. He noticed the debris from the damage floating before it soon went back to its normal conditions, no doubt that his Teacher fixed the damage to make sure there was no evidence of the battle.
For Taiga, she was now awake and quickly took notice of the retreating wizard. Just as she reaches out to him, she noticed the Ring on her finger. She gently swipes her thumb across the ring, seeing the symbol on the stone.
'Then trust me and allow me to help you hold onto your hope'
Those words echoed in the back of her mind.
She smiled softly before she got up and took the ingredients as she made her way back home, safe and sound.
With Enrique, he was out of his armor but walking towards the shop. His eyes showed exhaustion, his stomach was grumbling slightly as he knew he used too much Mana.
Seeing the shop, he opens the door and on the couch was Ruler who took notice of him.
"Welcome back, Master," Ruler bowed until she noticed his condition. She could sense the low amount of Mana he has, his expression looked tired and on the verge of passing out. "Master, are you alright…?"
"I'm fine…" he sighed, "I'm just really tired… gonna go to… sleep…"
"Your bed is already prepped." She informed him.
"Thanks… Ruler…" he yawned as he slowly walks up the steps before entering his room and fell onto the bed, passed out from the exhaustion of his use of Mana.
Thankfully, he will be getting a lot of rest and be ready for the next day.
Taiga was cooking dinner as she hummed to herself until she heard the door open, no doubt that it was Shirou and the blonde. "Welcome back you two." She called out.
"Hey Fuji-nee," Shirou smiled before noticing Taiga's expression. "You… seem a bit happier than last time."
Hearing his statement, she glanced at him. "Heh, well… Let's just say, I feel refreshed after so many years." She responded before continuing her cooking.
"Eh?" He blinked while Saber took notice of something on Taiga's finger.
"What is that?" Saber asked, pointing at the piece of jewelry.
"A memento from the person who saved me from my despair…" She said with a smile.
Saber frowned slightly before she dragged Shirou outside.
"Saber what's-"
"Something is clearly going on." She informed her Master. "You first found her asleep in her home and we found that horn. And now, she looks happier and yet that Ring she has is not your average jewelry."
"Maybe she wanted it custom made?"
"Shirou… it's raw mana, crystallized… Even I can tell that."
"Are you even sure that is magic?" Shirou crossed his arms. "I mean it's just probably nothing."
"Shirou… I know what magic is. That…" she pointed to the ring, "Is mana crystallized…"
The auburn teen sighed, "Then… what should we do…?"
"Confront that Master and get some information…. It's obvious he's somehow behind this…" She said to him.
"Wait, Enrique?" He blinked. "Why him?"
"I don't know why… but I sensed a Dragon within him…." She pondered.
Shirou raised an eyebrow, rather confused and wondering just what is Saber thinking in that mind of hers.
"Ne, Fuji-nee, do you want to go to the antique shop tomorrow?" Shirou asked.
"You mean that shop not too far from the school?" Taiga replied from the kitchen. "Uh, sure, why not."
"At least the Tiger agrees to something." Saber huffed.
"I HEARD THAT BLONDIE!"
The next day arrived since the defeat of the two Phantoms as Ruler was wide awake and helping Wajima. But she was also looking at the news, hearing about 'gas leaks' that killed several more people. To her, she frowned knowing full well it wasn't gas leaks.
As a Ruler, all other Servants were to obey the rules since she has her own Command Seals of each Servant despite the Masters having theirs of their Servants. Once she finds the one responsible, she would make sure the Servant follows the rule and not cause more deaths and chaos that the Servant is already causing.
"Is Enrique awake?" Wajima asked Ruler as he walked over to the register to grab one of his tools that he forgot to grab.
"Not yet. I'm letting him sleep in a bit due to the fight with that Phantom." She informed him, keeping her eyes on the news.
"Ah, he must have to restore his Mana," Wajima nodded as he found what he was looking for before walking over to this little workshop to begin another set of Rings. The two heard footsteps and saw the raven haired teen awake as he was wearing his casual clothes. "Oh, you're awake."
"Yeah," he yawned.
"Shouldn't you sleep more, Master?"
"Nah, I don't want to sleep the whole day," he waved off. "Besides, at least I have beaten my first two Phantoms." He looked at the calendar, seeing each two days being circled. "Plus Teacher will be visiting tomorrow to check on my progress so I shouldn't sleep in every day."
"Alright then. Here, enjoy." Ruler smiled, handing him another plate of her cooking.
"You didn't have to cook breakfast, Ruler," he said as he began to eat. "I know you have rules as a Servant but I can make things myself too."
"I understand," she nodded.
Just as he finished his meal, he puts the plate in the sink to clean before heading to the counter to start another day at the shop. The bell jingled the moment the door open.
"Welcome," Enrique said until he froze when he noticed who arrived.
It was the blonde, Shirou, and Taiga.
Oh no… not good.
The blonde took notice of Ruler who was sitting behind the counter as she returned the look, emerald eyes meeting amethyst eyes. While the blonde was stoic, Ruler's was a normal expression. Not to mention, they almost look the same, kinda like sisters.
"Hey, Wajima!" Shirou wave to him.
"Ah, Shirou-san, welcome back," he called out from his workshop as he walked out of it before closing the door to it and walked down the small steps. "I'm surprised you are here. Nothing needs to be fixed."
"Oh, I know. I thought I'd bring Taiga-sensei here." He gestured to her.
"Uh… Mr. Wajima… I'll… be upstairs if you need me," Enrique said before he heads to the stairs before he rushed to his room. Closing the door behind him, he took deep breaths. "Great… Taiga must have realized who saved her…" he grimaced. The only people who can know is Ruler and Wajima, no one else can know that he is the Mahotsukai unless they promise to keep it a secret.
Back in the main floor, Saber approached Ruler as she stared at her.
"So… you're a Servant too?" Saber whispered to Ruler.
"As you are as well… Saber," Ruler replied. "Violence and confrontation is not necessary here in this antique shop."
"You're a Ruler…" she realized before nodding, "Do not worry... I won't harm anyone. Just concerned is all."
"As concerned for wanting to know about my Master?" Ruler frowned slightly. "He is not to be bothered for the moment being."
"Just what is he?" She asked her.
"As the mediator, I will not tell you. My Master's secret is kept between myself and him."
Saber wanted to argue, but she sighed and nodded, knowing full well of the Command Seals that the Ruler class Servants can use to command other Servants, "Very well… But I'd like to ask one thing…"
"And that is?"
"Is there anything we can do to help?"
Ruler stared at Saber before she shook her head. "It is not allowed and before you argue, I can only say it is only for him to do on his own, no one else except myself is allowed to intervene." She looks at Saber. "If you wish to follow him…" her hand had the markings of Saber. "I will use an order to prevent you from doing so."
"There's no need for that Ruler. But should they ever target anyone near Shirou, or himself? You can't stop me from protecting them. It's my duty after all…" She informed.
"As you say… I will make sure you and the other Servants follow the rules and not cause any more chaos…" she glanced at the TV. "Since someone has not been following the rules." She glanced at her arm knowing that once the Servant has been found, she would order him or her to halt the senseless killings of innocent people.
"Alright," Saber nodded before walking to her Master.
"Wajima, why did Enrique go upstairs?" Shirou asked.
"He has something to do," He replied with a lie.
"Ah, well that makes sense." Shirou nodded, giving Wajima relief that he fell for it. "Well, I guess we should be going now."
"Take care." Wajima waved at the three as they left.
"Did they leave?" Enrique asked Wajima from the stairs.
"Hai." Upon his words, Enrique walked down the stairs as he lets out a breath of relief.
"Thanks…" The young wizard thanked as he looks out the window, seeing them walk away from the shop. "Now that they are gone, I'm gonna head out so I can send Kraken, Garu, and Unicorn to search for any sightings of the Phantoms."
"Alright," Wajima nodded as he opens the door to the workshop to continue his work while Ruler stood up from her seat.
"Allow me to accompany you, Master." She offered.
Ruler's Master looks at her, seeing his calm dark brown eyes before he sighed. "Well… since you did mention you wanted to help… sure why not?" He answered.
She smiled softly and nodded, "Thank you, Master."
"And Ruler, it's Enrique, not 'Master'," he corrected.
"My apologies, Master." She said. He facepalmed.
After that little hectic conversation, the two were exploring the city. For Ruler, it has been awhile since she has done a trip like this in a long while. She remembered her times traveling in the past. She gently raised her head to see the sky.
The memories of her days in the past.
"Are you okay, Ruler? You are quiet," Enrique spoke while keeping his eyes on the road.
"Just…. Not used to this time…" she admitted, "Even with the knowledge that was given to each Servant of each new age, this has me concerned, worried, and surprised to see how far humans have come…"
"Oh right… you and other Servants are Heroic spirits of those in the past…" Enrique recalled.
"Yes… but since I'm no longer empowered by the Grail, I can only learn the rest of what is to come or recent events on my own." She said, remembering what the White Wizard said. She was now empowered by her Master's Hope and her body was slowly adjusting to absorbing the Mana since she can no longer rely on Prana.
Enrique remained quiet for a moment before he said, "I can help you…" he said softly, but he could sense her confusion. "You know, learn more of the world."
"I'd… like that Master…." She said to him with a soft smile.
Under his motorcycle helmet, Enrique smiled softly in return. While he barely met and got to know Ruler, she was considered an ally, a comrade, even a friend who wants to help him fight the Phantoms. It didn't sound so bad now that he mentioned it…
Before more thoughts come to mind, his stomach growled, causing him to flush in embarrassment. "We should stop by to get food."
"What about that place?" She says, pointing to that familiar noodle shop he first went to.
"Now that's the place to eat," said Enrique as he stood the bike, parking it. The two removed their helmets before they entered the noodle shop.
She took a few sniffs and smiled, "It smells amazing." She said to him.
"Same thought I had when I first came here," responded the young Mahoutsukai.
"Ah, welcome back. Heh, bring your girlfriend too huh? Ahh, young kids grow up so fast…." The owner chuckled.
"It's not like that," Enrique responded, a minor blush adorning his cheeks. "She's a friend."
"Well, come.. Sit and eat." He smiled.
The two sat on the stools as Ruler looks at the menu. "What would you two like to have today?"
"Same like last time," Enrique smiled. "Beef ramen."
"Um…. I'd like the same…" she answered.
"Of course! Two beef Ramen, coming up!" The owner said as he began to cook it up.
For Enrique, his stomach grumbles as they watch it being made. Once it was finished he had a grin of delight before he began to enjoy the ramen, a smile of satisfaction shown as he was consuming it.
"You certainly like this.. ramen…" Ruler said to him.
"It's one of my favorites," he smiled after swallowing. "Mostly beef. You should try it."
Ruler looks down at her bowl, seeing her meal. As a Servant, she didn't have to eat but seeing her Master enjoy it since it was his favorite food, she wondered what it tasted like. Sure she had tried French meals in her past as well as other types of meals but this was a first in this era. She was unsure how to eat it as she couldn't use the chopsticks next to her. Fiddling with them, making them fumble, and even tried to use them like spears to pierce the noodles. Must be due to the change, since she can't use the common traits Masters and Servants make.
"Something wrong?" Enrique asked.
"This…. Is difficult…." She admitted.
The raven haired teen blinked before glancing at the owner and saw he was away from them so it gave him a chance to ask her. "I thought the Grail gave you knowledge of today's era?" He whispered.
"It does…. Due to Prana…"
"Huh?"
"Your teacher mentioned that I am now empowered by your… Hope and no longer empowered by the Grail," she explained. "And so… my knowledge is now limited…"
"Oh…" He realized remembering the conversation during the motorcycle ride. So she really wasn't kidding when she only had limited knowledge of this time. He stared at her before he said, "Here, let me show you how."
"Thank you, Master…" She smiled softly as he helped her on how to use it. Her Master gently placed the first half of the chopstick between her thumb and index finger.
"First you keep hold of this half." She nods, waiting for him to continue. "Then you put the other half close to your index finger, above the other half of the chopstick." She proceeded the next step slowly as he helps her place the other half between her fingers. For a moment, she felt the contact of his hand nearly touching her own when he helped her place the other half.
It was a warm touch.
"You okay?" Enrique asked his Servant. "You became quiet for a moment."
"Um… Y-Yeah. I'm fine, Master," She responded out to him.
"Okay, and the next step is," he grabbed his own and grabbed his meal. "You simply grab the noodles and eat." He took a bite of his ramen.
Ruler nodded before she used the chopsticks, this time correctly and grabs the noodles before taking a bite as she did the same, but her eyes widen as she begins to eat more. Seemed she's enjoying the meal very much as she quickly ate all of her food. "More please?" She asked with slight embarassment.
"Of course you two," the owner chuckled as he began to start to make another bowl for the two. As he was cooking, the door opened as Enrique looks to see and saw Taiga.
'Uh oh…' he gulped in thought before he remained as calm as possible.
"Ah! I figured you'd be here." she smiled brightly.
"Hey Ms. Taiga," he waved to her as she sat with the two. "What brings you here? Buying another bowl like last time I saw you?"
"Mhm! Just felt like having another bowl!" She smiled before sitting with them, "So, who's this? Your girlfriend?" She smirked.
"She's not my girlfriend," Enrique denied. "She's only my friend."
"Hehe, if you say so." She giggled as she was given her main order as she dined in. "At least she's better than that blonde that lives with Shirou and I."
"Sounds like you don't like her."
"You don't know the half of it," she grumbled before looking at the teen. "Besides… I wanted to say thanks."
"Huh? For what?" Enrique responded, trying to hide the true reason. "I didn't do anything."
"You know what I mean." She said, holding up her ring.
"H-How do you even know?"
"It was how you spoke about hope and I remember you mention it when we first met," Taiga smiled. "Besides, I won't tell anyone about it."
"Ms. Taiga, please don't- wait what?" He started until he stopped when he heard her last statement. "You… won't tell anyone else…?"
"Of course not. Who would believe me?" She pointed out, "Besides... I understand how important it is to keep secret. Otherwise, the world would want to use your gifts for their own greedy pleasure. As well as to protect those who were like me."
The young mahoutsukai was stunned to hear that she wouldn't tell anyone about his power and being the Wizard. "I… I appreciate Ms. Taiga." He thanked. It gave him relief that Taiga won't speak of his identity as Wizard to others. She really is someone he can trust.
"Please, just call me Taiga without the 'Ms.', since we are friends after all."
The raven haired teen smiled, "No problem then, Taiga. If you want, you are welcome to stop by the antique shop whenever you have time off work since you're a teacher and all."
"I'd like that, Enrique." She smiled.
The three soon began to eat their respective bowls of ramen as fellow friends.
As the sun was finally setting as Taiga was looking at the two teens. "Well, it was nice seeing you again, Enrique especially meeting your friend. She's definitely not like the blondie that is with me and Shirou."
"I… appreciate the comment," Ruler responded.
"Hehe, you two definitely should stop by the house sometime," Taiga chuckled. "I'll stop by tomorrow."
"Wait, tomorrow!?"
"Yeah, is something wrong?" She raised an eyebrow.
"It's… well…" he rubbed the back of his head. He looks at his surroundings before looks at Taiga. "Teacher is going to be stopping by to check my progress of my Trial…"
"Teacher, as in the one who taught you all that stuff?"
"Y-Yeah…"
"Ah, well then we can reschedule another time." She smiled at him.
"I appreciate it."
"No problem and I promise, no one will know," she assured. "Besides I still remember the old saying, 'A magician can never reveal their secrets.'" She waved the two goodbyes.
"She seems like a kind woman," Ruler commented.
"Taiga is a nice person, Ruler," Enrique agreed with a smile. "You know… it's nice…" she looks at him. "Making new friends…"
"You never made friends?"
"Not really…" he admitted. "Before and during my times with my Teacher, I never made any friends… You, Wajima, and now Taiga… you guys are my first friends."
Ruler smiled, "appreciate you considering me a friend."
While she acts as the mediator of the Grail War, she was also a kind woman/spirit. Still, he swore she is familiar since she appeared when his magic reached to the old flag spear in the museum. Pushing that thought aside, for now, he said, "We should head back to the so we can help out Mr. Wajima."
"Of course, Master." She nods.
The two headed back to the antique shop, to allow their day to end. "Master, I've been meaning to ask you something."
"What is it?"
"It's about… the Phantom in you…" she said, "What type is it? If the one you fought was a Minotauros, it makes me wonder what type is yours…"
"To be honest…" he sighed. "At first I didn't know what my Phantom was within me but when I fought the Phantom within Taiga's Underworld, I had to summon my own before I finally learned what it was…"
"Which… is what?"
"... Dragon…" he muttered.
"A Dragon?" She got out, surprised.
"Yeah who sees anything as hostile. I had to control him by using my motorcycle." He explained
"Hmm… makes sense… Dragons only care for themselves and will do whatever it takes to get what they want…." she pondered.
"I could still remember seeing its eyes…"
"Huh?"
"There are times I see its eyes whenever I see a mirror or anything that shows my own reflection." He frowned. "I can tell he wants to break free the moment I lose my hope… and that is never gonna happen."
"Master… I know you're strong. You can beat this Dragon and take command." She said to him. "You said so yourself, as long as you hold onto your hope, he will never break free."
"Yeah, you're right," he nodded.
Night lurks throughout the city as most people were sleeping. In the antique shop, the occupants were fast asleep including Ruler. While she could no longer go into her astral form, it actually felt more comfortable to sleep on the mattress that was on the floor.
As she sleeps, she slowly opened her eyes, only to see the area being gray. "Huh..?" She looks around. "Where am I…?"
"A place where those like you shouldn't know…" a deep voice full of wisdom, hatred, and anger spoke.
She quickly looks back, only to see a massive dragon who was laying on its belly, looking at her. His head is as tall as her, the glowing red eyes filled with hatred and wisdom.
"You… you are his Phantom aren't you?"
"What is it to you putrid spirit?" He snorted.
Ruler frowned, "Why… why did you have to torment him during his early days?" She asked him.
"I am a Phantom, we seek to be born from despair much like those humans from before who suffered their fates, their Phantoms born from their despair." He glared at the surroundings. "Damn him for holding onto his Hope…"
"He has every right to."
Dragon glared at the Servant, his head raised high as she witnesses his full height. Ruler still kept calm upon the size of the beast, her guard up and her hands close to her sword. "Oh? So you think he could hold onto it for so long? How peachy…" his snort blew her hair to the side. "I've sensed those like you in the outside world… a Servant. Beings are so full of that Prana, such pointless energy you all have… though I can sense the Mana in you… wonderful energy. Guess the seal didn't like my presence, after all, forcing you to rely on the Mana from here on."
"So you are the reason why I am no longer empowered by the Grail." She frowned.
"So?" He huffed. "You are empowered by that stupid vessel's Hope. If he falls into despair…" he grinned, revealing sharp metal teeth. "You will die too, much to my pleasure to witness in the future."
Her eyes widen before she glares at the Dragon, "That will never happen on my watch… I know my Master, and he won't fall that easily."
"We shall see, Servant," he challenged. "We. shall. See
Darkness soon took over before she quickly opens her eyes and sat up, looking at her surroundings. She was back in her Master's room, not in the place the Dragon dwells. As her days as a warrior in the past, she never thought to be confronted by a foul beast. The Dragon was rude, full of hatred and despair, having the need to break free from its prison.
She saw her Master on his bed, mumbling in his sleep as he turns around, facing the wall. She was determined to help him and make sure he never falls to despair. Even if that should end her life, as long as he lives then she'll be able to rest in peace.
At least now she learned why she was no longer empowered by the Grail. All because of the Dragon, forcing her to rely on her Master's hope and the Mana that is in him.
Glancing at the Ring, she knew she had to adjust to the Mana. While it isn't like Prana, it was pure and strong yet raw energy when she first absorbed it. While it will take, possibly a week or so to adjust, she will have to learn much to her displeasure.
The one thing she dislikes to her very own soul… was studying.
A/N: It seems that our mahoutsukai was confronted by Saber, only to be stopped by Shirou! What will happen next for our mahoutsukai as well as his Servant? We just have to find out on the next chapter and see what will happen from there. So I hope you guys enjoyed the chapter. Also the special announcement I wanted to tell you guys, if some of you remember one of my old stories involving Kamen Rider Eternal and the anime Senki Zesshou Symphogear, I have decided to bring back that story! And so, that upcoming Eternal story will have same main protagonist but with a different plot, form, and some characters added. You will have to find out what it will be about when I upload it soon (By that I mean on the fourth of July). Anyways, I hope you all enjoyed the chapter and I will see you all later!