Fate/Shield Chapter 6:

The inside of the dungeon was…unique. Being underground, one would expect the terrain to be musty and dark. Instead, it was as if they were in a damp forest. Trees grew from the stone walls, curling and twisting throughout the area. The ground was covered in grass, mushrooms, and odd armour pieces. An armoured skeleton was within one of the trees, their body pierced from silvery tree branches, a blade hanging limply from their website.

"We're not the first ones to be here," muttered Rin.

"No, we're not," sighed Shirou.

"Well?"

Shirou smiled slightly, his structural grasping allowing him to integrate with the history of some of the blades.

"…You know the noble that Helmsman feared?"

Sakura sighed.

"Figures," grumbled Ilya.

"The villagers are fortunate," said Sakura, "if Helmsman had known about this Noble's absence…".

She didn't need to finish.

"That's all well and good," tsked Rin, "but the goal is to close the rift. I'm interested in learning how we go about doing that. Shirou! You better keep up; you hear me!"

Shirou smiled. It wasn't as well known, but Rin's mastery of reinforcement was equal to Shirou. Her skills in martial arts made her a dangerous foe to approach carelessly as well. If anything, the Toshaka mage was without question a prodigy of her time, as many a magus learned harshly. Rin rose an eyebrow as the trees quickly moved to block a path, their branches intertwining. With an eye roll, Rin began to engage her magecraft. A gander began to form. The dark purple energy twisted around Rin's finger gun, shrinking until it was the size of a golf ball. However, unlike the standard variant, bright blue sparks formed around the curse energy. The sparks ignited into a blue flame with a black center. Rin smiled as her eyes focused on her target.

"GENDER!"

The sound of whooshing flames burned whistled through the dungeon as Rin's alternative Gander punched right through the tree's defences, leaving a lingering fire that continued to burn. Rin clicked her tongue as she turned to Shirou.

"I was hoping for something more complicated than that. Whatever is in your dungeon, Illya, it's like a magus. The trees here are like their familiars. Speaking of which."

With a lazy flick of her hand, Rin sent a gulf of fire that began to consume the forest around them. With a snap of her fingers and a muttered word, the heat dissipated from the group, yet the burning embers of the broken trees still simmered. Whenever the tree bulged to expand, a burst of blue flames would reignite.

"Oh!"

Sakura jumped away from the stump, startled at the sudden burst of flame.

Rin smirked; the blue lighting gave her innocent smile an ominous feel.

"I admit it took the boost of strength from this world to accomplish, but I finally have a spell that hinders regenerative properties. Shall we?"

Shirou smiled weakly as he watched Rin bring about destruction. Her blue flames prevented the wooded area from expanding. She was inspired by Shirou's accounts of hunting Dead Apostles to develop this spell. Whether this restricted the time-reversal of an apostle was unlikely, but Shirou knew how annoying regeneration could be.

Shirou rose an eyebrow as the group travelled through this "dungeon," as Illya put it. Shirou watched as the beasts mindlessly charged through the devastation that Rin provided, killing themselves simply.

"The beasts are likely familiars," offered Shirou "they're too mindless otherwise."

It was still odd how these monsters were acting, but for now, Shirou and the others chalked it up to the rather zany logic this world seemed to function under. Rin flicked her wrist and sent another devastating wave of cursed energy laced with electricity. Rin focused on the application of her mysteries and frowned.

"This doesn't make sense. These spells should be more taxing, even for me. What on earth is this levelling function? Is it altering the soul? The body?"

"Is now the time for research Rin?" sighed Sakura.

Rin rolled her eyes, and another random beast, along with some trees, burst into splinters and gore. Rin's eyes narrowed as the room began to widen.

"…."

"Rin?"

Rin turned to Sakura and mouthed a few words, purposely remaining silent. Sakura blinked but nodded. Suddenly, the shadows beneath Sakura's feet expanded violently, shooting in all directions. Shirou stayed his tongue, knowing better than to disturb whatever was happening. Illya's hair began to fall, becoming familiars in the shape of doves. Rin clasped her hands together, a mix of blue, red, and black converging within her palms.

"Sakura."

Sakura's eyes paled as a black circle of energy appeared in front of Rin, an intricate pattern scribed within the wavering point. Rin spread her hands, and what looked like a spear formed.

"Hmm…this mystery should be breaking apart right about now…."

Rin smiled, her thoughts running wild with this new information. Rin reared her arm back and let the spear fly through Sakura's circle. Then the world turned black. Shirou gritted his teeth as a torrent of cursed energy broke through the remaining forests. Rin whistled, a shaky breath escaping her.

"Shirou, get in front of me, please…you'll want to see this."

Rin's spell was what some would call a bunker buster. It was not a widespread spell but was instead highly concentrated energy designed to pierce open defences and keep them open. Sakura's sigil allowed Rin's magic to become more significant and widespread, destroying the forest that was once in front of them…or at least what they thought was a forest. Shirou watched, amazed as the world around them broke apart, an illusion twisting away to reveal walls smothered in multi-coloured goo and numerous bodies encased within. A swirling circular mass of energy appeared in front of Shirou and the group, now a mere fifteen feet away. The goo began to turn black as Rin's cursed point expanded through it.

"…We were trapped in a spell?" muttered Rider "…that's…."

"Concerning," grumbled Shirou.

Shirou and Rider were quite adept at sensing mana in their original world. To be utterly surrounded by a seemingly magical occurrence and sense no mana was…concerning. Before anyone did anything, Shirou decided to do something about the rift.

As he approached the rift, the legendary sword's gem glowed brightly. Shirou rose the legendary sword, and the world seemed to shudder. The swirling gate closed as a slew of energy entered the blade. With a soft pop, the rift was now closed. Shirou blinked and looked at Rin, the poor girl looking aggrieved that a rift between worlds was completed with just a piece of metal. Rin then focused on the goop that surrounded them.

"Whatever this thing is…it's not native to this world."

Illya gave Rin a droll stare. Rin scowled back.

"I mean," muttered Rin, "we're not dealing with entities that follow our rules and logic."

Rin's eyes flashed blue as her magical energy flowed through her circuits. It was far from a set of pure looks, but Rin was able to bolster her ability to grasp concepts within her view through this practice.

"…nothing," she muttered.

She could tell that this thing was alive somehow, but that was it. Shirou narrowed his eyes at one particular space. Entrenched in the goo were two familiar monsters—the bird and beasts.

"….Illya".

Shirou's sister turned to her brother, blinking in confusion.

"Was there ever a monster that copied others and multiplied."

"You mean dopplers? There was one world event in the game, but it never went anywhere. The story was that the noble and his army got trapped in a dopplers stomach. If we didn't stop it, the doppler would have consumed…the noble…".

Everyone turned to the noble stuck in the wall.

"…..shit".

The noble. Everyone had assumed that the noble was a man. The blade's history showed the noble in full regalia, and that armour also seemed masculine. However, that was not the case. For stuck into the wall, the noble's face was open and accessible for all to see and looking back at them was none other than Maria. Shirou's eyes darted around, looking at the faces of the soldiers. Shirou began sweating, his heart rate increasing, as the total weight of what was happening sunk in. For the faces of all the villagers was staring back at them.

"RIDER!"

With a sundering crash, Rider was gone, piercing through the air and heading straight for the village. Shirou grunted as he stabbed his sword into the walls of goo, absorbing some of the material into his blade.

Doppelganger Sword unlocked!

Quality: Rare

Basic Attack: 5

Equip Skill Bonus: Doppel Detection (20 meters)

Equip Stat Bonus: +25 magic.

Unique Abilities: increased efficiency for any polymorph based magic (+8%)

Shirou narrowed his eyes and equipped the sword. Using dual wielder, Shirou trained a basic longsword and dashed after Rider. Rin's eyes narrowed as she adjusted her stance and looked at all the captives.

"….Now, what to do with you?"

Sakura stared into the distance, her eyes wide.

"The children," she whispered.

"Will be fine," asserted Rin dismissively.

Illya raised an eyebrow at Rin. Who was she trying to fool? Her hands shook now and again, her shoulders itching to follow after Shirou. Illya looked at where the rift was and then around the cave.

"Well, Rin?"

Rin turned to the small girl.

"What?"

"…You're the apprentice of Zelretch; how do we secure this?"

"My apologies Einzbern if my education didn't cover how to close tears in space and time!"

Sakura sighed. While Shirou's sword had somehow closed the gate, both Rin and Illya distrusted the method. After all, wormholes were not simply things you "shut." Sakura placed her hands on Rin's shoulder and shook her head.

"Calm down. Shirou and Rider are rushing to the village…the least we can do is figure out how to free these people."

Rin rolled her eyes but turned away from Illya.

Sakura sent a pulse of black energy and watched as the stomach seemed to cringe around her.

"…Rin…"

Rin turned to her sister and looked at where she was pointing. The smile that grew on Rin's face would have terrified the devil.

-With Shirou and Rider-

"Rider, why did you stop?"

Shirou found Rider crouching on the ground at the village gate, her chains in either hand.

"There's an ambush waiting ahead."

Shirou's sword pulsated with crimson energy. Shirou blinked as a stinging sensation burned through his eyes. Yet, amidst the pain, Shirou was able to see red outlines in the buildings and underground. Shirou stared at the sword with unmasked shock. It quite literally allowed Shirou to see the dopplers through, seemingly, any surface.

Rider looked at Shirou.

"Is that you?"

"Is what me?"

"The fact that I see red silhouettes."

Shirou quickly explained the new doppler sword. Shirou still didn't understand why some weapon forms unlocked immediately, like the beast and grass sword, while others with similar materials required time to break down. Either way, Shirou didn't care. Now was not the time to question advantages. Wordlessly the two moved. Rider, who was the fastest, narrowed in on the one that seemed to be struggling minutely. Shirou rushed to the center and used one of his new skills using reinforcement and the long sword.

"Skull Breaker!"

A skill gained from one of the many great bastard swords in Unlimited Bladeworks. It multiplied the force of a downward slash. Increased further with Shirou's magic and reinforcement, the skill split the earth, killing the one doppler hidden beneath. A shriek echoed through the village as numerous people barreled through the walls, any semblance of human bearing gone from their expression. A shudder echoed through the town as Rider flew through the sky, a bundle in her arms. She landed beside Shirou and whistled. A neigh echoed through the sky as the Pegasus landed swiftly beside Rider. Rider quickly put the wolf boy on Pegasus and let the creature fly into the air. The boy was shaking, his eyes staring aimlessly into the distance.

"Where's the girl?" asked Shirou.

Rider shrugged.

"She wasn't with the brother. Although…I think I've learned how these dopplers work."

Shirou dodged a doppler, one shaped like a man, and lopped its head off as he sidestepped it. Rider continued unabated as she simply backhanded a doppler through a building.

"They appear to eat others by using their whole body. I managed to get the boy out of the middle of a Doppler's chest. I can only assume the girl was devoured already."

Shirou grimaced, his eyes filling with a sense of self-hatred. He was too slow…again.

"Damnit," growled Shirou.

The instincts honed from Archer's life screamed inside Shirou. He dodged to the left, rolling away from a spike of flesh. The doppler he beheaded was merging itself back together, odd groaning occurring as the head and body melded together. The process was slow, unexpectedly, but Shirou could see that the parts were realigning correctly, indicating a decisive healing factor.

Rider threw her nail into one doppler and blew apart its entire torso. However, even this proved little to stop them. The dopplers were slow but relentless. Whatever damage Shirou and Rider produced did little to put them down. Shirou's blades tore through another half a dozen dopplers in a dance of skill, their spikes of flesh sparking off his doppler sword and straight sword (+8).

Even in the middle of battle, Shirou still found it ironic that his most upgraded sword was the basic English straight sword. It helped that the legendary sword kept copying the countless and distinct variants that Shirou housed in his reality marble. Shirou looked around and scowled as Maria entered his view. Unlike the rest of the seemingly mindless dopplers, she was calm and collected. Shirou made to engage but stopped, his breath leaving his lungs as he stared directly at Maria's torso…and the little girl crying as she was slowly sunk into it.

"A hostage," grunted Shirou.

"Of sorts," smiled Maria.

The difference in intelligence did nothing to Shirou or Rider, and they pressed the attack. Doppelgangers moved to surround Shirou and Rider. The Maria doppler smiled, and their eyes twitched. The doppler twitched and shook a bit, their hair paling as a flash of black went through their eyes. A click could be heard as Rider grabbed Shirou and jumped back. As they moved through the air, Rider began whispering a plan to Shirou. With a grunt, she hurled Shirou forward, using her strength to send the man flying towards the doppler. It took all of Shirou's skill with reinforcement to keep his eyes open from the wind. Maria smirked and turned their arm into a fleshy spear hurling towards him. Using the doppler sword, Shirou parried the tendril, the metal screeching down the entire way. Shirou tackled Maria and the demi-human girl in an unexpected twist, pushing them inside a building. Maria shivered as a storm of magical energy erupted outside, and a guttural feminine voice echoed out:

"Gorgon Breaker."

Shirou watched as Maria shivered, their eyes and body twitching erratically. Shirou made to grab the girl, her eyes pleading to be saved. The doppler's flesh spiked out and slammed into Shirou as he caught the child's hand. Shirou grunted as his reinforced body was capable of withstanding the blow, but the child was still locked in the prison of flesh.

"Damnit!"

Now outside, Shirou saw the garden of stone. The other dopplers are frozen in their newfound prisons. Rider's eyes shut as he barreled through; Gorgon Breaker already clasped around her head. Rider rushed forward, engaging the doppler in direct combat. However, Rider was forced to back off after the Doppler constricted the girl's head.

"They're weaker than I expected," said Rider, landing beside Shirou.

"I know. Either way, it doesn't matter; it still has the girl."

The doppler screamed as it destroyed the house. Her body pulsated and began to lose some of its features slowly. Their hair began sinking, their eyes hollowed out, and their body collapsed on themselves.

"WHAT HAVE YOU DONE!?"

Shirou raised an eyebrow. The counterpart was shifting, parts of its flesh being sheared off in clumps of black. The colour was enough for Shirou to clue in on what was happening.

"It's weak to magic," grumbled Shirou.

At this point, Shirou regretted not having more precise magic attacks. He had Gae Bolg and Fragrach, but those were weapons requiring special conditions. A doppelganger may or may not have a heart, and Fragrach only worked on reflecting an opponent's "Ace." There were other options, both blade and arrow, but they ran the risk of not being practical, harming the girl somehow, or leaving Shirou incapacitated. Shirou might have used such self-harm weapons (legendary shock or otherwise) if Rider wasn't here. She would slap him so hard he'd be incapacitated anyway.

"Alright," grunted Shirou, "let's!"

Scrunch.

Rider and Shirou blinked at the black glow leaving Maria's chest. Black fluid began to dribble from their mouth. Suddenly their head detonated in chunks of black goo as a beam of black energy pierced the facsimile of a skull the doppler was trying to maintain. Shirou turned around and saw Rin walking toward them. Her poise was perfect as she walked, decimating any of the dopplers that even twitched with a swipe of her hand. With a snap of her finger, the girl was freed, the child looking at Rin with wide eyes.

"Disgusting," muttered Rin "we'll have to get this cleaned up. Shirou!"

The sword hero walked to Rin, a crooked smile on his face.

"I take it you figured something out?"

Rin smirked.

"Turns out this thing doesn't digest anything. It functions as a sort of hive mind, using the energy and intelligence of its victims to expand. While they are distinct pieces, they are all still conceptually connected. A little bit of curse magic like Gander was enough to spread. Also, the villagers and those nobles are safe. If the energy drain went on any longer, they might not have been, but that doesn't matter. Sakura and Illya are helping them. I thought I'd come to arou-OOOF!"

Rin almost fell as the demi-human crushed her in a hug. Her sobs echoed through the village as Rin awkwardly patted her back. Rin tried to pry the girl off her, but the child's grip was unexpectedly firm. So, Rin submitted herself to trying to ease the girl's meltdown.

"It's alright," said Rin awkwardly.

The girl's name was still unknown, as she never offered it to any of them. Rin looked to Rider and noticed the Pegasus flying high, the brother smiling in happiness. The Pegasus landed and neighed loudly. Rin picked the girl up and placed her on the back of the beast, the girl having relaxed somewhat at the sight of the fantastical horse. She reassured the girl that everything was fine a few times, but they managed to get everything settled.

"…."

Rin was silent as she contemplated something. Shirou smiled softly as he closed his eyes, Rider maintaining a distance behind them.

"You want to keep them?"

Rin jumped and blushed, staring at Shirou shrewdly.

"I don't want to keep those kids! It's just…they're having bad luck! By the time we reach the next village, they'd be too attached to us, get it! It's not me. It's them!"

Rider smiled while Shirou chuckled, the three of them already back inside the dungeon. The entire walk was filled with Rin's assurances that "she" did not want to keep the children. That there was simply no choice. It showed how much Rin stayed the same as much as she changed. Further in the dungeon, Shirou finally saw Sakura again. Shirou smiled at Sakura as she came closer. She swiftly ignored him and rushed outside; the Pegasus cries echoing through the valley.

"….Uh," muttered Shirou.

Rin grinned as she poked his cheek.

"Oh, what? Jealous, you don't have her exclusive attention anymore."

"No. Just shocked how attached she is. Living on the road with two young children will be difficult, but I've done it before during my outings in Europe and escorting missions. We'll have to pick up a few things if possible before we leave….what?"

Rin stared at Shirou with a look of utter shock.

"I know I should be used to this. I should, but I think you're the only person that would just enter "dad" mode at the drop of a hat. Honestly, Shirou, do I have to worry about you adopting every stray?"

It took every ounce of self-control that Shirou had ever mustered not to give Rin a look. It would seem that he failed as Rin's face turned red and a scowl set in. Very tsundere. Finally, they arrived at the stomach area, and Shirou was able to meet the honest Maria. She was currently being doted on by soldiers and villagers alike, with a healer of some kind whispering magic. They were all exhausted but still focused on their leader spoke volumes of Maria's leadership.

"So, you are the sword hero," she whispered, her body still weak.

"I am."

She nodded, nearly dozing off.

"I thank you…I shudder to think of what might have happened."

"Is there a reason you came here?" asked Shirou "is there a method of shutting rifts like this?"

Maria shook her head, struggling to stand. She stood a few inches taller than Shirou, and her hair was brighter than her counterpart.

"No. I was expecting a den of jackals, possibly even bandits. The existence of what you call rifts was unknown until now. It seemed so slow at first, but that…thing managed to ensnare us in its trap. It avoided every form of detection magic we had…honestly; I'm shocked we're even alive. Thank you, sword hero. If you need anything, merely ask."

It irked Shirou to do so, but he asked away.

"Is it possible to refill our supplies? We need more food and enough clothing and sleeping arrangements for four adults and three children."

The noble blinked.

"Is…is that all?"

Shirou nodded.

"I…I see. If you give us a day, I can get my people to gather the supplies."

For the next several minutes, Shirou learned quite a lot. As it turned out, Helmsman was once a captain in Maria's guard, one that was fired and expelled from her order of Knights for indulging in the slave trade. He would have been executed if not for the political stress from the King. Maria quickly began organizing relief for Shirou's party and the demi-humans captured. Within two days, Shirou and the others were to be outfitted not just with supplies but a new carriage model.

"I'm sorry for how little I can provide right now," smiled Maria. Underneath her regalia was a purple tailored suit complete with fitted shoes. Shirou had been surprised to find that she was wearing that under armour but was undisturbed for the most part.

"No need," smiled Shirou "this is all we need. Thank you for organizing everything…although I'm a bit confused why there is to be adult clothing mixed with the children?"

Maria blinked and was about to explain but stopped as she shook her head.

"I see. I forget that your heroes are summoned from other worlds. Honestly, I always thought of you four as mere propaganda. Regardless, Demi-humans are not humans."

Shirou blinked.

"….and?"

Maria smiled.

"I mean, they are not human. The way they develop both mentally and physically is distinct. For us, the passage of time brings about our maturation. For demi-humans, levelling up gives them greater strength and aids in their development. It's not an exact science, but a level 20 demi-human tends to fully mature mentally and physically, regardless of their physical ages."

Shirou was both fascinated and confused.

"How does that even work? Would they not be able to remain children forever if they never progress?"

Maria nodded.

"I can see why you would think that way. Part of the reason that some humans consider demi-humans as monsters or beasts is due in part to their reactions to certain stimuli. The longer a demi-human remains a child, the more aggressive and belligerent they become. If left alone long enough, a Demi-human child may pick a fight with something beyond their current level. They also have a notorious uh…how do I put this?"

Maria struggled with the words to describe it, but thankfully, the one healing her, a demi-human, answered for her.

"We are a very emotional people," explained the healer, smiling at Maria "we become deeply attached with people and even places. It is not unusual for Demi-human parents to remain with their children. They congregate together and create a clan if they have enough generations and relatives. This practice is common in Siltvelt. I've been told our common sense also differs from the standards of humans."

The man's tail wrapped around Maria's arm possessively, a long grey tail securely hugging her. Maria blushed horribly at the action and went into a whispered rant about time and place.

"I'm currently taking care of two demi-humans," explained Shirou. "We hope that we can leave them here-"

"Impossible," said the man.

Shirou blinked, not expecting the immediate venomous response.

"But-"

The demi-human shook his head.

"As I said, we are an emotional people. If those two children are attached to your pack, separating from you will harm their mental development. If you would like, I can give them a check-up, but for their emotional well-being, it is best if they remain with you."

Shirou blinked, wondering where this man got the energy to heal and argue as he did.

"They've only been with us for just a day? Surely that's not enough?"

The man blinked and tilted his head.

"Depending on the circumstances, it may very well be. Could you explain how you met them?"

A quick explanation later, and the Demi-human wolf gave Shirou a sympathetic smile.

"I'm afraid from what little you've described that anyone would have become attached, Demi-human or human."

In typical Shirou fashion, Shirou decided to bulldoze through the problem and took it in stride.

"So," asked Shirou, "how else do Demi-humans differ from humans? Is there anything specific I should be aware of?"

The demi-human nodded.

"You are not their parents."

Shirou nodded, but the demi-human sighed.

"You don't understand. You are not THEIR parents. If they develop an attachment to you but proliferate, that attachment will grow. If you are not clear on the type of relationship you have, it can develop in…unexpected ways."

Maria blushed even further at this and grumbled. The demi-human rolled his eyes.

"I've explained this to you numerous times, Maria; I was older than you by several years even when I was little."

Shirou cringed a bit. It would seem Maria had suffered that exact situation.

"I still feel like a pedophile!" she stressed.

The Demi-human turned to Shirou.

"As you can see, something like this can occur if you're not careful. I can teach you some mannerisms that can instill a parental bond but depending on their ages; you may have to level them up sooner or later. I can tell you definitively once I inspect their condition."

The demi-human man focused on Maria, placing her against his chest to let her rest. The poor noblewoman was blushing horribly as the man inspected every inch of her for any possible deformations or signs of illness. Shirou was sure there was more to Demi-human mentality and culture, but for the moment, he would settle for the crash course.

Also, what was with them and not introducing themselves?

-Two days later, the "Travellers Companion" inn-

Shirou smiled as he watched Sakura give both the Demi-human children scarves. The scarves were worn by Shirou, Sakura, Rin, and even Rider. Lukas, the Demi-human healer, had explained that Demi-humans communicated not just verbally or physically but also by scent. The four effectively "claimed" the two children as their own. This form of adoption was considered good as blood ties by Demi-human standards. The two of them were very young and would not become aggressive for some time. Still, the conversation regarding the children's development was…enlightening as it was confusing. Rin especially did not take it well, drilling into Lukas that there would be no "additions" to their pack. Rin even went as far as to discuss this with the demi-human children themselves. It forced Rin to say she was now their mother and wasn't from Alabama.

However, it did lead to a rather sad realization for the group. Rin demanded to know their names before she went further in her rant and was shocked to find that the two had no such thing. Lukas was quick to explain how it may have happened.

"We Demi-humans can die at a young age for various reasons. Most parents don't name their children till after they can speak. These two were likely taken before they were named. It is a common enough practice for slavers. They believe that Demi-human children develop an immense bond with their masters if left unnamed or named by them. Sadly, a fact that is all too true."

Rin then proceeded to name them. Her face was bright red while she did so, but she did it anyway. Rin had named the girl Isabella, taking in her rather European features. After Shirou's supposed ancestor, Sakura named the boy Senji (long story about how they found that particular fact out). It was quickly apparent that Isabella was taken with Rin and that Senji was content with Sakura as a mother figure. However, their poly dynamic quickly became confusing when Isabella spent a whole day with Sakura yesterday, and now Senji was busy following Rin and asking a plethora of questions.

"Why don't you bother Rider?" asked Rin, trying to get some research done.

Senji turned his head, his wolf ears twitching.

"She doesn't like being touched, though."

Everyone stilled at the boy's observations. Rider turned to the child.

"I-"

The boy smiled. It was a peaceful smile, filled with something that Shirou couldn't decipher.

"It's ok! I like how you feel and smell too. Like a giant snake curled around us, you feel safe, protecting us."

Rider's book, quite literally, fell from her hand. This type of observational ability was something that no one in the room expected. Isabella nodded, sitting back into Sakura with a smile.

"Right!" she giggled "we like hugs, but you don't like hugs. Like papa said, you let everyone live their way."

Illya blinked, her ears twitching. She now resembled a teenager instead of a twelve-year-old girl, reaching Shirou's chest in height.

"Didn't Shirou say that when Senji asked about that…"

Shirou's face was stone. His heart…fluttered, for lack of a better word. Like Rider, Shirou had assumed that the children were content with their maternal figures of choice. Yet, this whole bouncing around and constant observation made Shirou aware that…well, he was a more significant part of their newfound lives than he thought. Rider, clearly uncomfortable, walked towards Senji. Their room was not very big, only having three beds and little walking space. Once she approached Senji, she hesitantly picked the boy up and brought him to her chest. He blinked rapidly, staring at her.

"You are both observant children…aren't you?"

Senji smiled. Rider scoffed as she watched this young boy smile the way Shirou did. Suppose he behaved like a monster in some respects…perhaps. Rider placed her nose on Senji's and slowly rubbed her face against his. Senji's nose twitched as he mimicked her movements. She placed him down and held a hand out to Isabella.

"Uh…what are you doing?" asked Illya.

"Scent marking," she stated.

It was true that monsters avoided Rider like the plague, but Shirou doubted her scent would do much. Then again, the only thing they dealt with was mindless Doppler monsters on the road so far. There was nothing else around them, and even the wildlife gave Rider a wide berth.

"You didn't have to do that!" giggled Isabella, "but I like it! Can we read a story! Wait, I want to ride Pegasus again! CAN WE!"

Rider's stoic face remained, but she held her hand out to Senji and carried them out. Rider turned to head to Shirou and nodded. With the door closed, Rin finally fell to her bed.

"These two kids are mentally and emotionally exhausting."

Sakura smiled demurely.

"They are not that bad."

Rin sighed and rubbed her eyes, sitting on the bed.

"I don't…it's incredibly odd how….how attached they are!"

"They're not human, Rin."

"I know that much, Shirou! But…they're picking up our mannerisms and the like! Senjo smiles the same way Shirou does and watches everything as he does!? It's creepy!? He's a mini you!"

Sakura smiles, blushing slightly.
"He does respect Shirou quite a bit. Even Isabella tries to walk as you do."

Shirou blinked.

"…what?"

Rin rolled her eyes.

"You walk with your palms facing forward some."

Shirou looked at his hands, having never noticed that unconscious behaviour.

"They kind of treat me like an older sister. I can see why Demi-humans kind of put off humans. Then again, they managed to worm their way with Rider now! Think they're going to call her mommy soon!"

Illya snickered as Sakura smiled. Rin just sighed and rubbed her face.

"God, we are so fucked up."

Shirou shrugged.

"I don't think so. Ironically polygamy is common amongst demi-humans from what I've read. Having numerous fathers and mothers may be common for them, or even normal."

Rin smiled and placed her hand on her face.

"Are you implying that I am uncomfortable with our relationship arrangement?"

Shirou's face became obscured with shadows as his spine straightened.

"Never…but I do get the feeling you're uncomfortable."

Rin relaxed and sighed.

"…a little. Those kids I…the responsibility. I knew that I would have children…to keep the family line going, but…I guess I never really thought about having kids for real…if that makes sense?"

"It does not," stated Shirou.

Rin rolled her eyes and began gesturing with her hands.

"Don't make me say it!"

Sakura reached across and squeezed her sister's hand.

"It's ok."

Rin closed her eyes tightly and shook her head.

"I…I just don't want to repeat what my father did! Having numerous children, selecting the best for leadership."

Rin scowled as she shook slightly.

"Every time I look at those two, that stupid choice keeps echoing! Which one is the best, which one is better suited? It makes me feel like I'm going to make the same mistakes as that asshole of a father!"

Sakura moved to her sister's side and hugged her tightly. Shirou moved to kneel at his lover's side, taking her hand into his own.

"Rin."

"Don't Rin me! I'm not some helpless shrew who needs emotional support! I just…I just need time to get used to it."

Shirou smiled and cupped Rin's cheek as Sakura squeezed Rin. Even Illya tried to comfort Rin as she put her back on Rin's shoulder.

"Rin, you have raised your whole life with the idea that having children is a means to reach the root, not have a family. We're different…you're different. I can't say that we're the best family for those kids, but as Lukas said, they're not going anywhere. Perhaps it's weird, but when is the last time something like common sense could be applied to any of us here."

Rin blinked and nodded; her eyes were dry, but her heart was hammering in her chest.

"I know that you, Sakura, and Rider would all be fantastic mothers. You'd have to be with me as a father."

Rin blinked.

"Oh, and you assume you'd be the father."

She meant it as a joke. To anyone else, it was obvious that it was a joke, a play on their whole polyamorous relationship.

Her heart wasn't ready.

"Of course, I would be. I'm with you till the end."

Rin's legs twitched as it took everything she had not to send Illya out of the damn room for some private time. Instead, she smiled sweetly as Sakura sweatdropped at the sight.

"Shirou…"

Shirou blinked.

"The next village…we're renting a room, and I'm going to destroy you."

Shirou shivered a bit.

"….um…do you mean?"

"Sexually and roughly, yes," giggled Rin, "so be prepared."

Shirou sputtered as Rin laughed and got up.

"Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to get some beginner books on this world's magic!"

Shirou blinked and turned to Sakura owlishly. Sakura merely placed her hand on his cheek and smiled. She kissed him and got up.

"Why don't we all get ready for the day, hmm? We have to get the remaining supplies and map a route. Besides, I think Illya wants to try her hand at fighting."

"Are you sure you're ok?" asked Shirou.

Illya grinned, a megawatt smile that screamed of power and youth.

"I feel fantastic, brother! Better than I ever have! So no, there will be no overprotective brother mode! My video game just came to life, and I will live it!"

Illya got up and got out of the room before Shirou could stop her. He sighed as he got up and jumped at the feeling of Sakura pinching his ass. He turned to see Sakura smiling. The smile she always wore when she desired Shirou.

"Rin was right about one thing Shirou. You will get destroyed in the next village."

Shirou sputtered.

"What about the kids!?"

Sakura giggled as she shook her head.

"Rin can babysit."

Sakura waved at Shirou as she walked away. He swallowed hard at Sakura's ample posterior swaying as she moved. Shirou smiled a bit and shook his head. Their relationship wasn't easy to navigate, but damnit, if he wouldn't protect it. With two young children in tow, Shirou felt that protective need grows to greater heights. Shirou's sword dinged as a timer that seemed to be ever-present disappeared.

All the swords had finished being integrated. But that was for another time. For now, Shirou had a day to spend with his family, and honestly, that seemed to be a better way to spend his day.

-End-

I have tried my hand on a relatively shorter chapter and have gotten back into the swing of things, for the most part. The next update will be Arcane Craftsman, as promised! At the moment, I have rewritten the last two chapters of Ultimate Weapon twice, and they've both come up doo. I don't know if it's the lack of interest or just the inspiration tank running dry, but things aren't looking good. I'm going to try again while I work on Arcane Craftsman to at least develop something that isn't subpar. I've been told by some writers on this fine site that "getting away" from the story overall might help, but I consider that a last resort.

In other news, the poll is in! Leading the standard votes in the story is Shadow Monarch at 47! In other polls, I do not accept large-scale review votes or PMs. However, there are notable exceptions for specific cases (such as you cannot access the ballot for some reason, had that happened to me a few times even after the author assured me it was open). So, with those exceptions added, the poll results are as follows!

Shadow Monarch: 47 (+3)

Fate/Clover: 42 (+8)

Journey Remake: 27 (+4)

Percy Jackson - The Spark: 23

Tied for first place is Fate/Clover and Shadow Monarch. I will announce the winner after consideration for this tiebreaker. If you wish to argue for one story or the other, I don't mind; please PM me. However, I ask that you respect my choice when announced for Arcane Craftsman. Note that whichever story is not selected in this tiebreaker will be written after, so keep that in mind.

All in all, I bid you goodbye till next time! Stay safe and be kind, and most importantly.

LEAVE A REVIEW XD.

P.S: For those wondering about Lukas and Maria, their history is quite simple. Maria's father had bought Lukas as an enslaved person "companion" for his daughter. Lukas, unnamed at the time, was seven years alive, while Maria was four years old. Over the years, they developed feelings for each other, and Maria named Lukas. When Maria turned seventeen, Lukas remained at the physical development of a thirteen-year-old. It was, of course, a problem for Maria, and she deemed Lukas too young for her. After years of keeping his growing aggression in check, coupled with access to strong weapons, Lukas ran away.

The Demi-human wolf went and hunted for three weeks and returned a full-grown man. Their relationship is meant to express the difficulties of human and demi-human relations, even with positive and romantic feelings. Lukas's maturity comes from the fact that he is both a healer and older than he appears. Unlike most of his demi-human brethren, he has access to knowledge, and it shows. He hopes to increase the understanding of Demi-humans by researching the behaviour of his people and translating it in a way that humans can understand it. I hope that came across well!