AN: Here's CH16 Folks! I hope you all enjoy, as a special someone appears near the end :D

Please leave a review :D


Chapter 16:

Day of Repose III


"Burn her!"

When she heard the crowd cheer for her execution, the girl choose to not pay them any mind.

"Damned witch!"

"God shall see you judged!"

In spite of the words of damnation all aimed at her, she could not bring herself to hate any of them. Why should she? They were merely following their beliefs weren't they? She had no right to judge them over it, even if it was going to now result in her end.

Death at the burning stake... that was the sentence they had given her.

Such a sentence would've caused any man, even battle-hardened warriors, to quiver in fear, for such a fate was beyond cruel thing to bestow upon someone, less of all a young girl who barely entered adulthood.

But the girl didn't cry nor did she fear what was coming. From the moment she had chosen to take up arms two years ago, she had left behind such feelings and emotions. She had already prepared herself for the inevitable even back then.

At her trial, she had been given a chance to save herself by refuting the notion of her beliefs... that if she chose to submit to theirs, then there was a higher chance of her life being spared. Any lesser man would've taken it, and she wouldn't blame any who would. But she refused to...

No matter what, in spite of everything, the girl didn't want to believe that what she did was wrong.

All of it was done in the name of the Lord, in order to sooth the sadness that had instilled itself within his heart. How could ever regret doing that just to save herself?

Thus, the girl refused and her fate was set... and she held herself with dignity as she made her way towards the execution grounds.

But, as the girl walked, one thought did trouble her that day as she reached for her chest...

Her cross... it was a simple wooden ornament tied around her neck, given to her by her mother on the day she had left her village in order to take up arms. After she was captured during her last battle, it was taken away from her by her jailers.

It had always served as sign of comfort and support for the girl, knowing that it was gone only caused a sadness to grow in her.

Just as she realized this, an Englishman approached her with a wooden cross that looked like it was made right then and there. He offered it to the girl, tears streaming down his face as the she thanked him. She realized in the midst of all the damnation and curses, there were still those who wept for her sake.

Knowing this, she couldn't help but smile...

Soon she was tied around the tall stake, the priest reciting a prayer before tossing the torch into the hay that surrounded her. As the flames began scorching her feet, the girl raised her head one last time and gazed up at the sky, speaking...

"...O Lord, I give myself to You..."

Those were the last words spoken by girl as her consciousness ceased.

The reality of Jeanne d'Arc had ended there... but the dreams of La Pucelle had just begun.


When Arthur awoke that early morning, he hadn't expected to bare witness to such a thing in his dreams.

In the aftermath of the Rogue Faction retreating and Manaka disappearing together with the Greater Grail, members of the alliance had all agreed on staying the night at the Yggdmillennia Castle. Those it suffered extensive damages thanks to the battle, most of the rooms were still usable and unaffected by the events of the night.

After Jeanne had suddenly passed out, he took her to one and watched over her for the remainder of the night. He guessed that he had fallen asleep himself along the way.

The young man had been sitting on a chair, watching over the form of his Master as she continued to sleep, who had a peaceful look on her face. In her current state, he once again couldn't help but note how ordinary his master looked without her armor and weapons.

'For someone like her... to have gone through something like that.'

He had known that the young saint was someone of strong will, but he never really quite had a grasp of how strong it was until now.

Arthur once again couldn't help but compare himself to his Master. Unlike him, she didn't come to regret the decisions that led to her end. The white knight only realized that he didn't after some self-reflection. As such, he couldn't help but feel immature when compared to Jeanne.

True, while both blondes experienced different things thanks to the way they lived... Ultimately, the fact was that his Master was something of a testament to what the King of Conquerors told him last night. She had lived her life without the feeling of regret, and looked to be better off for it. Even the way she died didn't seem to affect to her, as in spite of it all, she was a friendly and kind person.

'It seems I still have things to learn...' Arthur chuckled mentally to himself.

Even in his current state, he was still learning from others. It was as Merlin said to him once, life was a lesson that never ends so long as you lived it. He briefly wondered how his old mentor was doing. Arthur doubted that death had claimed the Magus of Flowers. Some people were just too stubborn for it.

Remembering that night before his reunion with Mordred, Jeanne had mentioned someone that sounded to be Merlin. He still didn't have any proof, but it was something to ponder. If it was his old mentor, then the white knight would need to ask Merlin a few things, one of which was his role in aiding his Master.

That is, if Merlin ever decided to appear again to either Jeanne or himself next time. A rather flighty person his mentor was, making the great magus difficult to contact.

"Hngh..."

His thoughts came to end when he heard his Master groaning, looking to see the young saint slowly open her eyes as she looked around the room and laid her eyes upon him.

"Arthur...?" She said, blinking as her vision cleared itself.

"I see that you're finally awake." He smiled at her, helping the other blonde to sit up. "You had me worried last night, passing out so suddenly like that."

"I'm sorry, it looks Laeticia couldn't handle all the stress of last night." Jeanne replied, noting that appearance of room that both of them were in must've meant that they were currently residing within the Yggdmillennia castle. "What had happened while I was asleep?"

"Nothing that would immediately need your attention." Arthur replied. "After our friends left the premises, that girl who was bound to that wheelchair Fiore, became the new head of the her family and the Black Faction. She called for a meeting right after everything that happened, but since you were asleep, I decided to go in your place. I told them everything that happened last night... along with Manaka as well."

"How did they react?" She asked, causing the young man to sigh as he laid a hand behind his head.

"Most of them took it well, but I suppose that's putting it lightly. Well... the King of Conquerors seems intent on taking the grail regardless." Arthur shrugged, causing Jeanne look somewhat incredulous. "He has his reasons. According to him, and I quote:"

So long as that thing isn't set to destroy everything, then it's safe to use right? Then there shouldn't be any problems with taking it for ourselves!

"Ehehe, that does sound like Rider I suppose." Jeanne found herself giggling.

When she first heard Rider's wish last night, she actually found herself expecting him to say something like that. She didn't really know the King of Conquerors well, but she could tell that much from what she had already seen of him.

Still, conquering the world. The idea brought a frown to her face, but so long as Rider was just about it, she supposed it wasn't something she could judge him for.

"As for the others, Caster of Black and Berserker of Black still hold onto their wishes regardless much like Rider is." Arthur continued. "As for their Masters on the other hand, they all understand the situation. They agree that if it came down to it, the grail would need to be dismantled."

For a moment, Jeanne wondered about Mordred and her wish.

Out of all the Servants of Red aside from Rider, only she had wish to make of the grail. Both Lancer and Archer had no wish, and Berserker, Assassin, and Caster of Red were traitors. As for the Servants of Black, she knew that Saber and Rider, had no wishes to make, and the white knight had just revealed that Caster and Berserker held onto theirs, leaving only the red knight left.

She wondered if Arthur purposely left her out... or if she had already given up on it already thanks to recent revelations.

If it was the former, then she couldn't help but wonder if the two would ever reconcile with each other. It was obvious to her at this point that both wanted some form of it to happen, but the two couldn't properly express it and thus made things awkward for both. A rather troublesome pair if she had to say anything about it...

Such thoughts filled her mind, but the young saint decided to cast them aside from now as she had other things to say to her companion.

"I see. Still, you should've waken me up..." Jeanne shook her head at her friend. "Really now, I'm the mediator of this Holy Grail War aren't I? Then it's part of my duty to preside over events like that whenever they may occur regardless of how I feel."

"Be that is it may, you also have a duty to Laeticia to care for her body as well." Arthur reminded once more as the young saint flinched somewhat. "After what happened, I made sure that you weren't disturbed by anyone. Scold me if you must, but I did what I believe was right."

Jeanne momentarily frowned at this, but quickly smiled in turn as she was also grateful towards her friend for looking out for her... huh?

Wait, there was Laeticia too... Why was she thinking like this?

The girl shook her head, thinking that perhaps she was still feeling a little lightheaded. With that, Jeanne decided to change the subject, a frown growing on her face as the next topic wasn't one she was looking forward to discussing.

"So then... how is the situation? With the people I mean."

Knowing what she was referring to, Arthur spoke.

"Don't fret, the situation with the civilians is being handled. You can thank Miss Fiore and her clansmen for that, as with their numbers and resources they're suppressing the panic felt by the city through a combination of hypnosis and their control over the local government."

"That's good to hear."

She sighed in relief. Even as far away the castle was from it, the attack performed by the Rogue Faction last night was too inconspicuous to not be noticed by the people in the city. It would likely take time, but given that Trifas was small size in size and somewhat isolated, the situation could be contained. The world of the supernatural would not be revealed, at least for the moment so long as everything went well in the future. She didn't like the idea of hypnotizing people, but felt it was necessary as well.

"Did we suffer many casualties last night?" Jeanne then asked.

At this, Arthur himself began to frown.

"Aside from Darnic and Lancer of Black, we also lost Archer of Black along with the Masters of both Saber and Rider of Black."

"I see..."

Jeanne knew that she felt something off from the moment she had awoken. Using her connection, she was able to confirm that the green-haired archer was indeed gone from this world. Despite barely knowing him, she couldn't help but feel sad for him and his Master. She also knew for a fact that some of the people who served Yggdmillennia died last night as well, there was no denying it considering the situation. She'll have to offer them a prayer later, it was the least she could do.

It was then that a thought occurred to her.

"Wait, if the Masters of both Saber and Rider are gone, who will serve as their replacements?" She asked.

"That girl known as Fiore. Archer of Black's former Master, has decided to take on Saber of Black as her own. As for Rider, he has contracted with a homunculus who had Command Spells appear on him recently." Arthur revealed as the young saint blinked in surprise.

"Wait, what...?"

How could something like that happen? As far as she knew, the grail only chose a specific number of Masters. Granted, the current grail war was an abnormality in itself with the amount of Servants being summoned, and that's not going into the outsiders who wanted the grail for themselves...

She would need to see to this new Master later on, if only to confirm him as one.

A knocking sound quickly interrupted her thoughts as Arthur went over to the door to see who it was. Once he opened it, there stood Rider of Red's Master Waver Velvet and Saber of Black's Master Fiore, the brunette's wheelchair being pushed by the former.

"Good morning." Fiore greeted.

"Ah, so you've awoken." Waver began. "We've been meaning to discuss with you our next step Ruler. Are you well enough for it?"

"Yes, of course." Jeanne replied.

With that, the two entered the room.


"Are you sure about this Sieg?"

Seated together inside the room of his former Master, Astolfo posed his question to his friend and current Master.

When the white-haired homunculus revealed that he had somehow obtained Command Spells, the first thing the young paladin was to try and deny him the chance of becoming a Master. After everything that had happened, he wasn't keen on the idea that his friend would join them in their current endeavor.

No, scratch that. Sieg was already involved. Together with a few other homunculi, they served as living batteries for the Black Faction Servants. Still, by becoming his new Master, his friend was far more involved than he was before, and he found the idea to be quite vexing to say the least about it.

"Is there something wrong with my decision?"

"Of course there is! Do I even need to spell it out for you?" The young paladin stated. "Since you chose to become my Master, you just made yourself an even bigger target! I thought you said you wanted freedom? Why are you allowing yourself to be bound like this?"

Yes, the pink-haired Servant had a point. From the moment he was born, or at the very least created, Sieg had wondered about the concept of freedom. He supposed it was something that was common to all homunculi, as his fellows from Yggdmillennia wondered the same things as he did. Astolfo's tendency to talk about the world to them only increased their curiosity.

But unlike them, Sieg had even pondered the idea of escaping from the castle more than once, but he knew that he wouldn't stand a chance should he be caught. As he was created to be one of the Servant batteries, he was an invaluable resource that they couldn't just replace. They would try to find the moment they knew he was gone. With their resources compared to a single homunculus on the run, the odds were heavily in their favor.

As such, he decided to remain at the castle. Hoping that one day he would have a chance.

And that chance soon came he supposed, but not in the way he expected it...

Caster's experiments on him new abilities he never could've imagined gaining. Not only that, his lifespan had been extended to such a degree that he can live for about a century or so before he expired instead of just a couple of years. And with the Rogue Faction attack last night, Caster had yet to implant a way to control him remotely. Meaning they had no way of keeping him here even if they wanted.

He had it, Sieg now had his chance... but.

"Indeed, when I first woke up pondered the idea of escape..."

"Then why didn't you take it?"

"If I had to answer that, then I suppose it was because of sentimentality." Sieg replied, causing the young paladin to look at him in confusion. "I don't exactly know why, but I couldn't bring myself to leave this castle for some reason. Not when it was under attack. In my understanding, I believe people would call it wanting to defend one's home? I was created here after all, perhaps I wanted to do my part to help defend it even despite how some of the crueler people here treated my kind."

"Hmm... I guess I can understand that." Astolfo couldn't help agree. "Still, for you to have a Command Spell appear on your arm... Say, what do you wish from the grail?"

"A wish?"

"You know, something you desire. You gotta have one otherwise the grail wouldn't have chosen you." The young paladin stated, causing Sieg to begin thinking to himself as he crossed his arms. Once he had his answer, the homunculus looked towards his friend and spoke.

"If I had a wish... then perhaps its for my own freedom?"

"That's something that you can get on your own right now." Astolfo waved off, taking note of the confused look on his friend's face. "Well, no need to rush about thinking what you want. You have all the time in the world now. If you want, I can help you find it."

"Will you?"

"Of course, we are friends after all!"

Losing Archer caused a great deal of sadness to form in Astolfo as he considered the green-haired archer to be a friend. Although they were temporary existences, they were still able to form a bond with each other.

Right now, he wasn't going to allow what happened to Archer and his former Master to happen to Sieg.

On his honor as one of the Twelve Paladins of Charlemagne, he would make sure to protect him!


"Drinking this early Archer...?"

Once Reines walked into the dining room of the castle for breakfast, she came upon the scene of her Servant drinking together with Lancer of Red, Rider of Red, and the blue-haired Lancer that the Tohsaka girl commanded. Judging from the smell, as well as the latter three being out of it, she guessed that they were going at it for a while now.

"If you wish to partake Reines, then by all means." The Golden King stated with a smirk.

"I would rather pass." The young blonde replied as she looked over the other two. "Just how long...?"

"From the moment we came back to this castle. Lancer found out about his mentor dying, and came to me asking for something to drink." Gilgamesh replied, glancing at his fellow Servant of Red. "In the name of generosity, I decided to allow him, and the dog and the King of Conquerors decided to come and join us."

Reines blinked in surprise at this. She knew from Lancer himself that Archer of Black was his old mentor, so she supposed that even though the two of them were on opposing sides, Lancer still held their old friendship high.

But wasn't really that bothered her. It was the fact that Archer had acted out of generosity.

"I have to say, that's unexpectedly kind of you." She couldn't help comment.

"And you'll be wise to not make a joke out of it." He stated as his thoughts went elsewhere for a moment. Particularly, the information given to them by the King of Knights recently.

The knowledge that the grail wasn't really what it seemed didn't really so much as bother him as it did the others. In fact, it merely confirmed his thoughts that it really wasn't one just like he thought. If there did exist something as extravagant as the Holy Grail, then he would know about it.

Still, for their to be another group holding an interest in obtaining the grail and awakening the so-called beast that dwelled within it...

A smile found its way to the Golden King's face.

'This Holy Grail War is truly turning out to be a most interesting event. I never thought I could find such entertainment in this era.'

He was curious to meet the girl called Sajyou Manaka. Though he disapproved of summoning a Beast that could potentially ruin his garden, he wanted to know what kind of person would desire such a thing. Was it truly insanity that drove her or something else? That was something that only he could judge.

"Argh..."

Hearing his fellow Servant of Red groan, Gilgamesh smirked once more as he saw the green-haired spearsman awaken himself from his sleep.

"Well that was something..." He muttered as he gathered his bearings.

"What's the matter Lancer? Cannot handle a mere drink?"

"There's nothing mere about what you give goldie." Achilles retorted, massaging his temple as a resolute gaze appeared on his face.

"After that nap, I've just decided is all. Once I find the guy who killed teacher, I'm going to kick his ass myself. I don't want any of you to interfere." He stated, before looking at the Servant of the Bow directly in the eye. "That goes for you too goldie."

"Hahaha! Then do as you please Hero of Troy!" The Golden King declared. "Let no man stand between you and your desire. If you seek to avenge your fallen teacher, then I shall support you in this quest of yours."

"Huh, that's not like you at all." Achilles stated in reply.

"Don't misunderstand." Gilgamesh replied as he smirked. "After all, the one who killed your teacher was another student of his, no? Then it should prove to be quite a spectacle to see a match between the Hero of Troy and the Slayer of the Gorgon."

Such a comment caused both Achilles and Reines to stare at the Golden King with flat gazes. That sounded like him alright.

"Perseus..."

The green-haired warrior muttered aloud as his thoughts drifted.

Having never met Perseus before, all Achilles knew about him was from hearing legends and stories about him from his youth. Knowing that he killed Chiron... he could accept that. After all, they were Servants fighting in a Holy Grail War. It was only natural to expect an outcome like that to occur.

However, according to the girl who was Chiron's Master, Perseus achieved victory through teaming up with Assassin of Black. Even with his skill, Chiron would have been overwhelmed against such odds.

While Achilles understood the necessity of pragmatism in combat and war, what bothered him most was the fact was that Perseus was a Greek hero and a former student of Chiron as well. By all rights, he should have fought with their teacher in one-on-one combat. Where was the honor and glory in doing what he did?

Had he no pride relying on someone like Assassin to secure victory? Was he not the hero who bravely faced the Gorgon and lived to tell the tale? He had heard so many stories about the man as a child yet this single act had quickly changed Achilles' perspective.

The Adamant Hero wanted answers, and he was going to get them one way or another.

'Be ready you bastard, because I'm coming for you!'


"According to Saber, there's a high probability of finding this girl Manaka in Tokyo, Japan."

Seated together at a table were Jeanne, Waver, and Fiore. Arthur currently stood behind his Master with his hands behind his back.

"Japan?"

The young saint muttered in wonder. Yes, sixty years ago, the grail wars did take place in that country didn't it?

"Yes, and most likely, that man is headed there as well." Arthur added, directly referring to Shirou. "It's the only place I know of that Manaka would base herself at, but it has been sixty years. There's a chance that she has already moved on from there."

"It's still a lead nonetheless. It's better than nothing after all." Waver added. Right now, he was still curious about the history that the white knight had with the girl along with the grail, but that wasn't important right now. "Besides, I already sent word last night to the Association and they've already begun sending out agents in Japan to try and find this girl and search for any signs of Kotomine's group."

"You told them already?" Fiore asked. As always, Lord El-Melloi II really didn't waste any time.

"Only what they needed to know. God knows what some of those bloody fools would do if they find out what the grail really was. I wouldn't want to find out." Waver replied with a frown. "Speaking of which, I've also spoken with the vice-director about the future of your family."

"W-What did she say...?"

The young brunette began nervously. She heard rumors of how much an unforgiving woman the current vice-director could be. Granted, it was her grandfather that was responsible for all the trouble caused by their family. But as the current head, reparations now fell to her. And the director may want pay back...

"Lucky for you, she's willing to look past your family history." Waver replied, causing the girl to blink in surprise. "In exchange for the pardon, the Yggdmillennia clan must submit all the research and resources they've gathered over the past century. And any future endeavors shall be done directly under the command of the Director or any of her chosen staff. She says that this is her being lenient, so be grateful I suppose."

"That I am..."

Fiore replied with light sigh. As the new head of Yggdmillennia, she had a duty to uphold the legacy of her clan and that meant that she would come into conflict with Association at one point or another given her clan's stance against them in recent years. And with how the clan itself was weakened with the deaths of her grandfather, uncle, and aunt, the Association wouldn't pass up the chance to strike at them when they can.

To hear that the woman known as "The Queen of the Clock Tower" had chosen to be lenient with them... it was a measure of relief to say the least. They may have been put in debt but it was better than the alternative which was to continue the conflict her grandfather started. One she never really supported to begin with. She might have done so under other circumstances as per her duties, but the current situation prevented that.

The girl known as Manaka and group led by the priest known as Shirou Kotomine... they would have been too much for her clan to deal with alone. Allying with the Association was the only way she could think of stopping them. She knew that it would have costs but she believed it to be worth it so long as they could be stopped.

"Back to the matter at hand," Jeanne began. "Lord El-Melloi, just when do you think we can get word from these agents?"

"El-Melloi II," Waver replied, emphasizing the II part of his title. "And soon I hope. For now, we're all headed to Japan. Much like Saber said, going there is our best lead. And sitting around doing nothing here would be a waste of time, so we might as well get moving."

"Japan..."

Fiore muttered to herself. She had never gone there before. She heard from the Caules that it was a wonderful place, but even her brother had yet to go there himself. What was it like she wondered?

Also, from what little she knew, instead of taking place in just one part of the city, the three original grail wars that took place there sometimes expanded beyond the capital and into the Greater Tokyo Area. She remembered her grandfather saying once that this was due to the fact that the founding families wanted to make good use of the leylines there, changing up the location of the greater grail each time the ritual was held. Though the main site of the battle was still within the capital city itself.

With that said, going there meant temporarily abandoning the castle. While she could trust the repairs of to the family servants and homunculi, it still meant leaving their main base of operations and going into unknown territory. They would be severely lacking resources, especially for Caster of Black. They would need to find a way to fix that.

"The latest flight that I could schedule is later tonight, so we all best prepare ourselves by then." Waver stated as everyone looked at him. "I had to call in a favor from an old acquaintance of mine. Speaking of which Ruler, I've been meaning to ask you something."

"What is it?"

"Do you feel anything strange?" The former suddenly asked. "Since the Greater Grail was stolen by that girl Manaka, I've been wondering if it's done anything to the Servants. You most especially since, in a sense, your Master is the grail itself. Being taken away from the land where it siphoned its power from worries me."

"Huh? Well, I don't think there's anything wrong with me at the moment." Jeanne replied, looking herself over. "Though I do understand your concern. Tell me, do the others feel the same way? And you as well Arthur?"

"No, I do not feel any different." Arthur stated, crossing his arms. "And the others also replied as such. Whatever Manaka plans, I do not believe she's done anything to the Greater Grail yet. For now that just means we have a chance to strike back and retake it."

"Speaking of which, where are we going to stay once we arrive?"

Fiore spoke up, catching the attention of the other three as they pondered the question themselves. It was a good question actually.

"A hotel maybe? No, something like that would be insecure even with the appropriate measures." Waver began to think. "Where else could we go? The Church? No, the city lacks an administrator at the moment thanks to the previous owner dying recently without an heir..."

"Ah, I might have a solution."

Hearing a familiar voice, the group looked towards the door which was currently open. They saw Ayaka peeking her head from behind it, adjusting her glasses so that they wouldn't fall from her face. They noted that she must've overheard them talking and got curious.

"Oh? Let's hear it then."

"I live together with my grandmother in Tokyo, we have a house there." The young blonde revealed. "Since it's the city where the Holy Grail War originally took place, that where we should start looking first right?"

"A house..."

Arthur wondered if what she was referring to was the house that Manaka and her family had lived in all those years ago. There was still the matter of Ayaka being possibly related to Manaka, and last night all but confirmed to him.

As far as he knew, even if Manaka was merely playing around, the fact was that she basically led him right to the teen and that couldn't have been a coincidence.

For now, Arthur decided that he should just wait and see...


"Where could it be...?"

Within the villa that belonged to the Red Faction and searching every corner of her room was Gray.

That morning, the white-haired girl went by herself to check upon the villa in accordance to her teacher's orders. And since she was there, she might as well take care of the luggage and other times her fellow Red Masters had and have them ready for transport later. She knew that they would be leaving Trifas soon. She didn't know when, nor did she know where they would be going, but she simply knew.

After having done that, the girl was now searching her room for that item.

With everything that's happened, she supposed it wasn't really the best moment to give it to her ancestor. But she didn't see any point in delaying it any further.

Her family made a promise a long time ago... and now she had a chance of fulfilling it.

"Ah, here it is."

The girl smiled once she found what she was looking for. Hidden within her cabinet was a small box. Opening it revealed a rather worn out necklace, obviously not from current time period considering its appearance.

With this, all she needed now was to get her ancestor alone. Given the nature of what she held, it was going to be a private affair.


Today... it was today!

She had been looking forward to this day for some time now... and finally it was here!

The King was to come and visit the city for an inspection. Many people were excited as it was the first time he would be doing so since he ascended to the throne. Many stories have already been told about him, about how he once defeated a white dragon of incredible power.

She really didn't care for any of that. What mattered to her was that she would finally get to see her father for the first time...!

With such thoughts filling her mind, the child worked her through the crowded streets of the city. Her mother would most definitely scold her for going out on her own, but she didn't mind. She could handle that, all she wanted was to finally see her father at least once.

She wondered to herself, would the King be able to recognize her...?

The child doubted he would, as her mother told her that she had yet to tell her father of her existence, and currently had no plans of doing so anytime soon. She wondered why her mother would choose to do that.

If she was the King's child, wouldn't that make her his heir? If so, why choose to hide her? Was it because the King had already been married to someone else? Why didn't her mother marry him instead?

Her thoughts came to an end when she felt herself bump into someone. Realizing that she wasn't looking where she was going, she noticed that she had ended up walking in a deserted alley. Looking up, she decided to apologize to the person she ran into, only to pause as her mind went blank...

"H-Huh...?"

Looking down upon the child was a man with hair and eyes much like her own. He was wearing rather simple clothing akin to a peasant, but she knew from the moment that she looked into his eyes, the man wasn't of common birth...

"Haha, you should look where you're going young one."

He laughed, but the child didn't really notice as she was too starstruck. She recognized him, this was the first time they met, but she knew him...!

"Y-You're...!" Realizing what she was about to say, the man knelt down to her level and placed a finger upon her mouth.

"Shh! Can you do something for me?" He asked, the child quickly nodded. "Please keep this a secret will you? I don't want people to recognize me right now."

"But why?"

"Because it's more fun that way." The man replied as then took note of the child's appearance. "Hmm... there's something about you."

It was only at that point did the child notice that her hood had fallen down. Realizing this, she quickly pulled it back up. The man found it strange that she react as such, but perhaps she had her reasons.

"At any rate, be sure to keep this to yourself okay? This my order to you as King, can you do this for me?"

"Y-Yes! With everything I have...!" The child nodded vigorously. "Y-You can count on me to serve you milord! One day, I'll even do it as a knight!"

"Haha, so you want to become a knight?" The man laughed, as it was something that was common for children to dream of becoming. "Very well, I'll allow it. Until then, behave like a good girl alright?"

"I'm a boy!"

"Oh? Well then, my mistake."

He was sure that the child he was speaking to was a girl given his long hair. Looks can be deceiving he supposed. Either that, or the child was lying for some reason. But for what reason? Either way it didn't matter he supposed.

With that, the man left. The child gazed at his disappearing form as he waded through the streets once more. An awed look was on her face, for the person she had just met was none other than King Arthur.

"Father...!"

An elated smile grew on the child's face. Even though he didn't recognize her, and as brief as it was, she was still able to meet her father!

Just by looking at him, she was able to feel a sense of greatness. She wondered, if she worked really hard would she be able to become like him? No, there was no question. As the King's child, she would definitely be able to reach him!

"One day, for sure...!"

...

She had believed as such... but life wasn't that simple.

"Why did you refuse to give me the throne?!"

In the end, the two of them went on to kill each other atop that blood soaked hill. She demanded an answer from him, but he never replied. A cold look in his eyes as they fought with one another.

"Why did you refuse to acknowledge me as your child?! Do you hate me that much?!"

It was a fierce battle, perhaps the one where she fought her hardest. But when she thought about it, her father wasn't even trying. Such a fact drove her to madness and rage as she attempted to kill him.

"Not once have I ever hated you Mordred. Even now, I feel no such thing..."

"...?!"

If that was truly the case, then just what was she to her father...?

Her answer never came as her chest was pierced by his holy lance.

It was a fatal blow, one that would've killed anyone instantly. However, thanks to a curse casted upon her by her mother, Mordred temporarily revived and instinctively returned the favor. Once the deed was done, strength began leaving her body once more.

As she laid there bleeding to death, the Knight of Treachery couldn't help but reach out to him... her father whose back was now turned on her, managing to stand tall and proud despite the wound she inflicted. Even now, she couldn't help but admire him...

"F-Father...!"

A futile gesture as life left her body soon afterwards.


"For the love of god..."

When woke up that day, Kairi noticed that it was already late in the morning.

Unlike the others, he opted to say in a nearby cavern instead of the castle. He had yet come to terms in fully accepting the idea of an alliance with the Black Faction, but considering everything that happened so far, right now he was just being paranoid he guessed.

Demon gods, world ending destruction, this was far beyond his pay grade... He'll make sure to get Rocco to pay him in full for additional services.

With that said, he also didn't expect to see that in his dreams...

'Geez, talk about a troublesome Servant... even in visions of her past I can't tell if she loves or hates her old man.'

"It's about time you woke up, I was wondering to myself if you decided to join the land of the dead Master."

Mordred smirked at the Mercenary. Right now, this was her payback towards her Master for choosing to sleep in such a dank space. She was more comfortable at the castle, sleeping in a cave like the one they were in wasn't fit for a knight like her.

"And who's fault is that? Stop showing me weird dreams dammit."

"Wait, what?" The red knight muttered in confusion.


Sitting within a room located inside the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, Shirou quietly read a book with a smile on his face.

"You bastard, how long are you just going to sit there reading that thing?"

...That is of course until Julian began speaking out his opinions. Ah, the peace was nice until it lasted.

"Must you always refer to me as bastard?" Shirou asked, smiling at the young man. "It hurts my feelings you know."

"I couldn't care less about your feelings." Julian replied, sitting across from the white-haired priest. "What I want to know is when will we make our next move. Since you allowed the grail to be stolen by that girl, our assault last night was basically all for nothing."

"I wouldn't say nothing." The white-haired priest retorted. "After all, we did successfully take down Archer of Black along with the Masters of Saber and Rider of Black. It's still a victory in its own way. And the only casualty we suffered was Berserker, though Assassin did lose quite a bit of their personas. Speaking of which, have you completed the process already?"

At that, Julian pulled out a class-card from his pocket. Printed upon it was the word ASSASSIN.

"I have, you'd be surprised to hear that they were completely willing to undergo it. Truly, the Hassassin are pragmatic warriors to the core." He stated. "With this, their numbers would be replenished once I re-summon them."

Shirou smiled at this. The Hundred Faced Hassan may have been considered the weakest among his brethren, but for the white-haired priest, his utility far exceeded his counterparts by a milestone. All they needed were better weapons and armaments, something that he could provide. And together with the class-cards, his personas could be replenished as need be. Never has there been a better combination.

"So then, what do we do about that girl who stole the grail?" Julian asked, setting down the ASSASSIN card on the table.

"We wait it out." Shirou replied. "While Sajyou Manaka did end up taking the Greater Grail, I'm somewhat positive of the fact that she will give it to us once we've dealt with the Red and Black Factions."

"Do you honestly believe that?"

"No, of course not. We just need time to gather our resources, which is why I plan summoning one more Servant to our cause." The white-haired priest stated, and Julian knew that he was referring to the remaining two catalysts they had in their arsenal. "Whomever we end up summoning, so long as they are on our side, our odds would be better than ever."

"You should've summoned that Servant before we began the assault. Otherwise, we may have never ended up losing Berserker." Julian pointed out.

"That was a mistake on my part." Shirou muttered with a frown. "Perhaps I was already confident in our ability to take the grail. After all, we would've succeeded if not for Sajyou Manaka's interference. That girl truly is a mystery."

"What can you tell me about her?"

"One thing, and that she's dangerous." Shirou replied with full seriousness. "Sixty years ago, I considered her to be the most likely candidate to win the Holy Grail War, and she was a relative unknown at the time when compared to the other participants back then such as the Einzbern, Tohsaka and Makiri."

"I suppose I can agree on that." Julian nodded.

He had only met the girl last night, but already he could tell that she was not to be trifled with. Still, for Kotomine to believe that she was such a threat... just what was she?

"Now then. Off topic, how's your sister Erika?" Shirou stated, changing the subject. "I haven't seen her for a year now. I hope she's doing well."

"She's fine, going to school and all that nonsense." The young man replied as a frown grew on his face. "Must you bring her into this discussion?"

"Come now, I was only curious how the daughter of an old friend was doing."

"From the way I see it, you plan on taking her as your wife aren't you?" Julian stated with a snide look on his face. "I always knew you were a criminal."

"Now that's a rather rude remark. What happened to the boy who used to call me big brother~?" The white-haired priest smiled.

"Shut up! Don't mention that again!" The black-haired youth went red in the face.

"Ah, I still remember the days when I helped to change your diapers. Truly, how time easily flies~"

"I'll hit you!"


Watching the clouds in the sky from the edge of a platform was Perseus, the Gorgon-Slayer taking the time to enjoy the view. At the moment, the fortress floated above a vast ocean, far and away from Trifas. As far as he knew, it was making its towards the eastern country of Japan.

"Do you plan on staring at the clouds all day?"

Coming upon her fellow Greek hero was Atalanta, the Chaste Huntress walking towards her ally with her arms crossed.

"Care to join me? It helps to sooth the mind."

"I'd rather not, and that's not why I'm here." The golden-haired huntress replied. "I heard that you were the one who slayed Archer of Black. Was it true that his identity was none other than the great Chiron?"

"Yes, it was none other than him. I wouldn't mistake my old teacher for anyone else."

"Still, for you to even slay your old teacher... do you regret it?" She asked.

"Have second thoughts Archer?"

Turning around, both looked to see Lancer materializing right behind them, the white-haired demigod staring at the two with his usual stoic expression.

And for some reason, he was carrying a small bag in his hand.

"No, it's just that..." The Chaste Huntress began as a troubled look grew on her face. "I heard that a new enemy had taken snatched the grail away last night. You saw her, didn't you Lancer? Is it true then, that our new enemy is but a child?"

"Yes she is, but it makes no difference." Karna replied. "Whoever stands in our way, we are obligated as the Servants to cut them down for the sake of our Masters. Even if we must perform acts of cruelty as well. You should remember that, otherwise that girl may end up being your undoing."

"I'm not that foolish!" Atalanta retorted in anger as she clenched her hands into fists. "I understand fully that she is our enemy, but if it were possible, then perhaps she could be spared is what I'm saying. My wish to give salvation to every child in this world who suffers. If I strike one down, then what does that make me?"

"Then allow me to perform the act for you. That will suffice, no?" The Invincible Hero offered.

"That's no better, I might as well bring down the sword myself." The golden-haired archer replied as she sighed.

"To think that one can still hold onto their morals in our situation. You deserve admiration, Princess of Arcadia" Perseus commented with a smile as his ally frowned at him in response, something he took note of. "Oh? You do not wish to be referred to by that title?"

"Do I even need to answer that?" The Chaste Huntress shook her head before turning to look at her other ally. "So then, I also heard that one of the new enemy Servants is Heracles. Is that also true?"

"Yes, and from what I saw of him last night, I could already tell that he will not be an easy foe. His mere presence exudes power."

At this, Karna couldn't but smile internally to himself. Powerful opponents were appearing one after the other. As a warrior, he could ask for nothing more.

"I see, that's rather troublesome."

Having fought alongside the son of Zeus once before, Atalanta personally knew how strong her old comrade could be. And under the Berserker-Class, she knew that she wouldn't be able to take him on in a straight fight. Her best bet would be to fight alongside another person, preferably Lancer as he was rather powerful on his own to begin with.

She also heard from her Master that the former princess of Colchis now served as Caster of Black. Back in their original lives, Atalanta couldn't help but feel sorry for her as she knew that Medea was but a pawn of Aphrodite at the time of the Argo Expedition. To face her now as an enemy... the thought just troubled her somewhat.

'Well, I suppose that I just have to steel myself then...'

...!

Her senses briefly went on the alert when she felt something being thrown at her. Catching it with one hand, she saw that it was an...

"Apple...?" Her eyes took on a certain glint.

"I hear that it's your favorite." Karna said, revealing that the bag in his hands contained more. "Eat up, and perhaps you'll be able to relax yourself then."

The golden-haired huntress eyed the white-haired demigod curiously at this. This was rather unexpected... was Lancer trying to do something? After some deliberation, she decided that he wasn't.

That said, she couldn't help but keep an eye on her ally as result. From the moment she had known him, she had known him to be quite loyal and rather emotionless and apathetic to others aside from performing his role to the letter.

"You have my thanks..."

With that, she took a bite out of the apple, savoring the taste as a smile grew on her face.


Later that early afternoon...

Outside in the gardens, a certain boy and his Servant were doing target practice.

Readying the pistol given to him by Kairi, Caules unloaded several shots into the target laid out before him by Berserker. Said targets being a poorly drawn monster with a bullseye painted upon it.

...!

"Damn..."

He cursed, having missed his intended target of hitting the center and instead shot parts outside of the circle. The young man felt that it was natural for him to miss. It's not like he would become an expert at firearms overnight. Which was why he decided to get as much practice as he can when he could. The Holy Grail War was going to get more and more intense now, he needed to prepare himself in anyway possible. For both his and Fiore's sake.

Caules was worried for his sister, feeling that a new level of pressure had been loaded onto her shoulders having been placed in the position of head of their clan so soon and in the middle of a great conflict in addition. Eventually, he'd need to have a talk with her about their future should they survive the war. If only to ensure Fiore's welfare as a person. As her little brother, it was his duty to make sure of that.

...!

"Tch, missed again...!"

"Aw, that's too bad for you Master~ Maybe you should try a little harder?" Elizabeth teased.

"Quiet you, I am trying my best."

Caules replied as he sat down on the ground. It was time to take a break, as he had spent the last remaining shots already. The ammunition for the gun was with the mercenary who gave it to him, so he have to meet up with Kairi later for a refill since at the moment he was away on patrol or something last he heard.

With that said, he then allowed his gaze to land upon Berserker, who sat beside him.

"What is it~? Don't tell me you've been mesmerized by my beauty~?" A smirk grew on Elizabeth's face. "I guess it can't be helped for a plebeian like you~"

"That's not it, I was wondering how you're holding up." Caules asked.

"What do you mean by that?"

"I mean, you didn't really react well to what happened to Lancer..." He said, causing the Servant of Madness to frown.

"Whoever killed uncle, I'm going to return the favor." The Bloody Countess stated with a firm look in her eyes. "It's the least I could do, after he decided to accept me after all."

When he thought about it now, Caules could understand her reasons.

Back when she was first summoned, Vlad had been the first to welcome Elizabeth with open arms whereas the other Masters of the Black Faction, himself included, were a little reserved about having someone of her reputation fighting alongside them. Caules eventually caved in to the idea once he saw the Berserker was actually rather friendly if arrogant given her background.

The Servants of Black didn't mind as well, but it was Vlad who got along the best with Berserker. Perhaps it was because he understood what she was going through? Vlad the Impaler wasn't exactly a popular figure in the traditional sense unless you were from Romania. Many saw him a blood-thirsty warlord thanks to mainstream media, most especially due to Dracula.

"Well, if that's really what you want, then I suppose I can't stop you." Caules sighed as a smile grew on his face. "Just make sure you don't do anything stupid alright? You can't become an idol if you're dead after all."

At that, Elizabeth grew a big smile on her face.

"Ahahaha~! Of course I won't! Elizabeth Bathory is going to take this world by storm one day!"


Allowing herself to sink deeper into the bath, Jeanne sighed in content as her body relaxed itself.

She decided to take a bath as she hadn't been able to do so the night before. The new head of the Black Faction was kind enough to direct her to a bathroom where she did her business. After all, Laeticia would become upset if she didn't do it, and she made promise to care for her body.

The young saint found herself wishing that there were inventions like this back in her time. They were rather wonderful.

"Ah~! I could find myself sleeping in here and not even notice it."

After the meeting with Lord El-Melloi II, Arthur decided to go out and patrol the area for now. Just because it was still daytime didn't mean they could let their guard down.

While he did that, Jeanne decided to go and visit the new homunculus Master who went by the name Sieg.


"Ah, so you're Rider's new Master." Jeanne greeted the white-haired boy who answered the door.

"Oh, Ruler!" Astolfo called out as approached the young saint. "Come in. I heard you fainted last night, are you alright?"

"Yes, I'm quite fine. You don't have to worry about me." The blonde replied as she entered and eyed the other person in the room. "I'm here to talk with you for a moment if you have the time. It'll be a short matter."

"Of course." Sieg replied. "What do you wish to talk about?"

"Your name is Sieg correct? Can you give me your hand?" Jeanne asked as the white-haired homunculus did as told.

Rolling up the sleeve, she observed the dragon-shaped Command Spell that now marked Sieg as a Master. The young saint was immediately able to tell that they truly were a new set as opposed to having gained them from another. This was rather strange indeed.

"Can you tell me something? What is it that you wish for Sieg?"

"That is..." Sieg began but was soon at a lost for words.

"Sorry about him Ruler, he's still trying to figure that out." The young paladin quickly stated to the blonde-haired saint. "Why are you asking?"

"I was merely curious." Jeanne said in response. "For a new Master to appear this late into the war, I just find it strange is all. Perhaps it's just a strange effect of the grail that allowed this to happen. What happened to the Command Spells of both your former Master and Saber of Black's?"

"Fiore took them. She said that she might as well since they would go to waste."

"I see..." Jeanne nodded in understanding. She then turned her gaze back at Sieg. "I ask you this Sieg, do you truly wish to participate in this Holy Grail War? As far as I'm concerned, you can back out now if you wish."

"I will fight." Sieg stated in response. "I don't really understand everything that's going on, and I admit that I'm somewhat afraid... but I already made a contract with Rider. At the very least, I should see it through."

"Very well then, I accept your resolution." The young saint smiled.


While she still felt doubtful that he should take part in the upcoming conflict, she saw in his eyes that Sieg really was planning on helping Rider out as his Master. For her, that was more than enough, and she would respect his wishes.

'Wishes huh...'

With that said, her mind quickly flashed back to the events of last night.

'That girl Manaka... she said she wanted to help Arthur fulfill his wish of saving his people.'

From what the young saint saw that night, she knew that Manaka had meant every word she had spoken then. That she really was going to help Arthur with his wishes. And because of that, Jeanne began comparing herself to the younger blonde.

'Am I a good Master to Arthur...?'

She just couldn't help but ask such a question. Jeanne had always felt somewhat selfish asking Arthur to temporarily forsake his wishes in order to aid her, and in the end he would gain nothing in return for his services. While he said that he didn't mind and was glad to do so, her mind couldn't help but ponder the question.

And this wasn't something she was pondering herself, but Laeticia as well.

In the back of her mind, there was a question that was being posed by the girl herself. Laeticia wondered if there was anything that could be done for Arthur.

Magic and Servants, Laeticia could get by all that nonsense easily, but she couldn't accept the idea that Arthur wouldn't be able to have his wish granted. It just didn't sit well with her either, but Jeanne found that Laeticia had stronger feelings on the matter.

And lately, the young saint had also felt rather strange lately... it was a feeling that was apparent whenever her thoughts shifted to Arthur. When she began to wonder what could possibly cause such a reaction, it was at that moment that she realized what it was.

'Laeticia... she must have fallen for him.'

When she thought about it, the girl's feelings for him began as early as the moment she had summoned him. It would explain those flustered moments she had throughout her and Arthur's time together... at least, she thought so.

Perhaps she couldn't blame her, as Arthur was a rather handsome and kind person. And he always had her best interests at heart whenever he looked out of her, to the point that Jeanne felt he was somewhat overprotective. That said, she found it to be sweet and endearing trait of his.

'Oh, oh dear...'

The young saint felt her face flush red as she realized what her thoughts implied.

'No, no, I shouldn't think like this.' Jeanne shook her head. 'He and I are friends, nothing more. These feelings I'm having... t-they're just Laeticia's!'

So she thought to herself. But when the blonde realized that a part of her wasn't entire convinced, she frowned. She can't have these feelings, she can't!

So engrossed was the young saint in her thoughts that she was unprepared when the door suddenly opened.

"Jeanne? Lancer told me you were in here."

A familiar voice called out to her, causing the blonde to freeze up.

"Why is it so steamy in here? Oh, there you are..."

Arthur stated, his voice trailing as he became speechless at the sight before him. He was completely taken aback by the scene of his Master naked in the bathtub.

"Ah...!"

Jeanne squeaked in surprise, her face went beet red as she quickly covered herself to preserved any semblance of decency she had left, her mouth wide in shock as she couldn't find it in herself to even speak either. She buried herself as deep as she could beneath the water.

"So this why Lancer was smiling like that..." Arthur muttered under his breath as he quickly averted his gaze. "My apologies, I didn't know that this was a bathroom. I should've known better and knocked first. And my apologies to Laeticia as well."

Hearing him speak, Jeanne snapped out of it as she quickly pulled the bath curtain and hid herself behind it.

"N-No... it's alright. I know you didn't mean it, and she does too..." So she said, but that was a lie. She really did mind!

"I'll just leave you to it then..." Arthur began as he walked towards the door. "Again, my apologies about this-"

"Wait, Arthur!" Jeanne suddenly called out. "I like to ask you something."

The young man stopped, closing the door once he heard his Master's voice. Not wanting to risk another inappropriate gaze, he didn't bother to turn.

"What is it?"

The young saint could still feel herself blushing. She didn't know if this was the best time to ask her question, but they were alone and she might as well take it.

"Am I... a good Master?"

"Hmm? What brought this on?"

Noticing a chair within the room, the young man decided to take a seat as he and his Master conversed.

"It's nothing I suppose. I'm just wondering what you'll get out of all this once this is over." She replied as a sad smile grew on her face. "You told me once that you didn't mind not being able to have your wish granted, but lately I just find myself wondering it again..."

"Is this about what happened with Manaka?"

"You know me well." He heard her say, and that basically confirmed his thoughts. "I was wondering, what kind of person was Manaka? Back when she was your Master, and before she... you know."

Sighing, Arthur leaned into his chair as he looked up at the ceiling.

"I always found her to be something a mystery." He admitted, smiling slightly. "She was always rather cheerful. Even when we were fighting for our lives, the smile on her face never went away. I thought nothing of it back then, thinking it was simply her being brave. But, after what happened... I wonder if it was something else entirely."

"What do you think of what she's doing right now? She said that she wanted to help grant your wish."

"I'd rather she not. If she plans to awaken something like the Beast, then there can be no good that can come out of it." Arthur replied, somewhat in anger at the notion. "I keep asking myself how I managed to miss it... how I actually failed to notice that she was insane. If I had, then perhaps the children who died that day could've been saved."

"Wait, children...?" Jeanne muttered in shock.

"Manaka began sacrificing children to the Holy Grail as a means to power it." He revealed. "It was then that I decided to betray her, and you should know the rest..."

"I see..." She muttered quietly, feeling sorry for both the children and the white knight.

"You needn't compare yourself to someone like Manaka. As far as I'm concerned, you're a better Master for me than she ever was." Arthur added, and the young saint knew that he was smiling from where she was.

"Thank you." Jeanne said as she found herself smiling as well. "I suppose it was silly of me to even ask you these things."

"I don't mind. Besides, I like you better than her too."

"H-Huh...?"

She froze up once more, her mouth agape. Jeanne was thankful that curtain hid her expression, otherwise she may have died of embarrassment if Arthur saw her right now.

"I think it's time I took my leave." The young man quickly said as he stood up. "Again, my apologies for intruding upon you. I was only wondering where you were. If you'll excuse me, I have half-a-mind to find Lancer and bury him from the neck up."

Such a statement caused the young saint to giggle in response. Once she heard the door open and close itself, she knew that Arthur was gone. With that, she breathed slowly and she sighed. She sank herself deeper into the water.

Placing both hands on her chest, she gazed at the Command Spell that signified her contract to Arthur. She also felt her heart beating immensely.

'Saying something like that... you dummy.'

The blush on her face wouldn't be going away any time soon...


"Well that was unexpected..."

Arthur muttered to himself as he made his throughout the castle, hoping to come across Lancer while he was at it. He really was planning on introducing Excalibur's flat side to his face right now in addition to burying him from the neck up.

"Honestly..."

Still, the sight of Jeanne...

'No, no! Think clean thoughts...! I'm not my brother!'

The young man frowned at himself once perverse thoughts began to fill his mind. Kay and Merlin really did have an influence on him it seems. Shaking his head, he would need to distract himself with something in order to clear his mind. Perhaps sparring with someone would help?

"Um... Saber."

Arthur stopped in his tracks once he heard someone calling out to him. Turning around, he saw the Master of Lancer of Red standing behind him, a shy look on her face as the young man laid his eyes upon her.

"Oh, Lancer's Master. I never did catch your name." He stated.

"It's Gray..." She replied quietly.

"I see, a pleasure then Gray." He said. "Did you need me for something?"

After saying that, an awkward silence began between the two.

During it, Arthur couldn't help but note that the girl really had a rather strong resemblance to Mordred, only she had snow-white hair. But it wasn't the only thing that bothered him. There was something about her, but he couldn't really figure out what. The more he stared at the girl in front of him, the more the feeling gnawed at him.

'Snow white hair...'

That's right, she had hair like that too... didn't she? Perhaps he was merely feeling nostalgic.

Though either way, it wasn't the time for that. Right now, there was the matter of the girl herself apparently wanting to speak with him for some reason. From the looks of it, she was feeling rather nervous as she fidgeted somewhat.

"Uh... are you alright?"

"Y-Yes...!"

The girl stuttered somewhat. Realizing her folly, she relaxed and took a deep breath. After a few moments, she regained her composure and spoke again.

"I need to talk to you in private." The girl stated as she looked around their surroundings. "Not here. What I want to discuss is... a family affair."

"And how does that include me...?" Arthur asked, now starting to get a little confused.

"Well... that's because you are my great ancestor."

"W-What...!?"


"Alright, we're here. Now then, explain."

Having made their way towards the forest, Arthur eyed the girl calling herself Gray with a serious look on his face.

"I know that it's difficult to believe, but it's the truth..." The girl replied, looking troubled at his reaction. "You are my ancestor, and I am your descendant."

"How would that even be possible? My children-!"

Arthur began but paused as he frowned angrily as old memories began to surge throughout his mind, good and bad.

There were some things he just didn't want to remember, this being one of them, as it served to remind him that he was a rather poor parent.

He couldn't protect him... and he ended up killing her.

Yet Gray claimed she was of his blood? How in the world would that even be possible?

But, when he gazed at the girl, he could tell that she was being sincere. With that, he had to consider the possibility of it, yet...

"Both of my children died... one at my hand and the other to natural causes." Arthur stated, a sorrowful look in his eyes as he stared at the girl. "What you're saying is... I'm sorry, but I just can't find it in myself to believe you."

"Then, would you believe me if it came from this person?"

Taking out a small box from her coat, the white-haired girl opened it to reveal a rather worn out necklace. It took him a moment, but Arthur realized that he had seen said necklace before. After all, why wouldn't he recognize it?

It was the one he made for Guinevere... on the day he had proposed to her.

"Where did you...?" He said, taking the necklace into his hands.

Before he knew it, his vision was blinded by white as he suddenly found himself standing in the middle of a garden.

It was a place he recognized as the one that belonged to his former castle actually. He even saw said building as he looked around. Was it an illusion? He couldn't tell, and why was it all here?

Gray was gone, and Arthur began wondering if this was all just some sort of-

"Arthur!"

The white knight felt his eyes go wide in shock as he heard an incredibly familiar voice. A voice that was always felt much like a lovely tune to him, one that he could never tire of no matter how many times he heard it.

With that, Arthur turned around to face the source of the voice. He found himself at a lost for words once he did.

"After all this time... I never dreamed...!"

A woman stood behind him, tears in her eyes as she covered her mouth with both hands. Her beauty indescribable as it always was for the young man, as though she had stepped out of a painting. Her blue eyes went well the snow-white hair that flowed freely behind her back.

Unable to mistake her for anyone else, Arthur called out her name.

"Guinevere...!?"


END


Author's Note:

That's CH16 folks, the stage is shifting to Japan. But before that, Guinevere makes an appearance!

And yes, I've been planning on using Guinevere here since the beginning. I always thought she was an underused character in both official and fanfiction works. Not many stories focus on her, so I decided why not? That said, my use of her in FMB will be rather limited, but important. In relation to this, I also decided to make Gray an actual blood descendant of Arthur instead of being a just a relative. And I based FMB-Guinevere's appearance off hers somewhat.

I also had Shirou take part in raising Julian :D There was a reason why he's not as much an dick here than in Prisma-Illya, and that was it.

As for the bath scene, I based that somewhat off on the novels. Honestly, I'm actually something of a Sieg/Jeanne shipper. So it actually felt weird to write Sieg and Jeanne in knowing that they won't be together. Though lately that isn't the case anymore since after examining it, it was rather forced to begin with. Which I hope to avoid in regards to the Arthur/Jeanne pairing. That and Sieg/Astolfo honestly have more chemistry than Jeanne/Sieg XD


As for those who had questions:

Code Zero: What? Nine-Lives is a bow technique, which is why Archer-Class is considered to be Heracles' best class. True, he could use it in different styles but long range is the way to go (Personal belief). And why would Manaka want to give him back his sanity? He's a Berserker-Class for god's sake, he works best when insane. That and he's already so powerful that the thought doesn't even occur to her.

Cain: Arash doesn't have a card, where'd you even get that idea? The class-cards are the system used by the Rogue Faction, not Manaka. She doesn't need it, not with what she can do anyway. And Altria wasn't at full power since she was gimped by Shirou and had bad compatibility with Kiritsugu. And while I'll use the UBW route as a reference together with the other routes for a fight between him and Heracles, Proto-Gilgamesh is more of a battle-hungry warrior than FSN-Gilgamesh is. He likes to enjoy his fights, meaning he won't be using Enkidu unless he's desperate to win.

No need to weak: Julian calls Shirou a bastard because he's a dick XP and because they were so close to obtaining the grail but Shirou decided to give up on it. He knew Manaka was a danger, but since he hasn't really known her long yet, he didn't really know how much aside from having command over Berserker-Heracles and Lancer-Brynhild.


That's it for now, please leave a review :D