AN: Though a bit early to say since there's still one more day before it, happy new year everyone! Thank you those who faved, followed, and reviewed FMB this past year. It took me a while to get this out. Apologies for the lateness of this, busy with real life and all that. Here is Chapter 24 of FMB. Note that the chapter itself may come off as rushed or the like, especially with the fight scenes. Let me know if there's a problem I need to edit. Reasons for that are in the below AN. Please review :D

Update (1/14/2017): Realized that I forgot to add a bit regarding the final part with Sieg and Astolfo, as well as the final part with person whose identity you all could guess. Added both now.


Chapter 24:

The Fall of Heroes


"Wow~ I just can't get enough of how wondrous this city is~!"

Standing atop a roof observing their nearby surroundings, both Astolfo and Sieg arrived at the location of where Lord El-Melloi II and the others should have been according to Ruler. And much like the rest of Tokyo, it was quite a sight to behold.

"Do you think that we could go exploring after this~? From the looks of it, this area has many shops."

"Perhaps we should try to find out where the others are before considering it." Sieg suggested with a crooked smile. "At any rate, thanks to the fumes of this city, I'm having trouble trying to find the scent of Lord El-Melloi and everyone else."

"Wait a minute Sieg, you can smell people?"

The young paladin perked up in curiosity at this.

"Hmm? Yes I can." The former replied, turning his attention towards the pinkette. "I believe it to be the result of implanting the dragon-heart in me as well. Because ever since then, my sense of smell has been heightened beyond that of normal human being and more akin to an animal now. Did I forget to mention this earlier?"

"You did." Astolfo replied before smiling widely at this. "So then, what do I smell like~?"

"Let me see..." Sieg crossed his arms in thought. "You have an overwhelmingly sweet scent, one that's somehow irritating me in a way."

"Ahahaha~! I'm not sure if that's supposed to be a compliment or an insult~!" The pinkette merely laughed it off along with a wave of his hand. "So, what about say... Berserker for instance? What does she smell like?"

"She smells like a dragon just like myself. Though like you, there's an overwhelmingly sweet scent as well that irritates me."

"Archer of Red?" Astolfo asked.

"Gold."

"Really? Wait, does gold even have a scent?" The former wondered to himself before moving on. "Then how about Rider of Red?"

"Wine and Alcohol."

"Hahaha!"

The young paladin laughed at how accurate a description that was. Ever since their alliance was formed, nearly every instance of the King of Conquerors he had seen had the former having a drink in his hand. Now that he thought about it, he should have a get together with Rider of Red in order to teach Sieg about life. The young paladin was sure that he would agree to it.

Moving on, he asked his next question. One that he was curious to hear as he could tell as Sieg's descriptions of the people's smells was basically him telling his opinion of others.

"Well then, how about Caster? What does she smell like?"

"It's difficult to say..." Sieg replied as he placed a hand beneath his chin. "She smells of death, but at the same time she smells of nature, specifically the ocean. I'd rather not say anything more..."

"Ah..."

Astolfo simply nodded in understanding. By all accounts, with the charms they were given by Caster, which allowed them both to remain hidden to the eyes of normal people and allowed Caster herself to communicate with them, she could very well be listening in on them at the moment. It would be smart to stop now before anything untoward could be said. After all, hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.

Wait a minute, they were getting off track.

"Anyway, we should probably take a look around." The young paladin began, remembering their original purpose. "We're bound to find something after all. Either that or we run into the enemy and if by luck we're either able to take care of them or we're both dead men or perhaps even try to torture us into siding with them. But that's not's accounting to what will happen to our allies too, but I'm pretty sure luck is on our side today~!"

Sieg merely remained silent as the young paladin continued speaking, listing off two worst case scenarios after the other all with a smile on his face and a happy tone. He couldn't tell if he was serious or not, or if Astolfo was merely being optimistic. Considering his reputation, it was likely the latter.

...!

His senses went on the alert as his nose picked something up.

"What is this...?"

"Hmm? What is it Sieg?"

The pinkette asked as he looked curiously at his friend and Master. All of a sudden, the white-haired homunculus began looking around all over, as though he was sniffing out something like a dog would when something caught their interest.

"There's something unnatural in the atmosphere..."

"Magecraft then?" Astolfo guessed. When one thinks of unnatural, the most common source would be magecraft.

"I believe it is." Sieg replied, raising his finger. "Over there, north of here."

"Alright then~!" The pinkette stated before suddenly jumping onto the former's back much to his surprise as he caught Astolfo. "Onward trusty steed to our destination~!"

"But I'm not a horse." The white-haired homunculus stated. "And why are you riding on my back? You already have your own mount after all."

"Think of this as training~" Astolfo simply replied with a smile. "Let's test how well you can fly with someone on your back~!"

"Ugh..."

Knowing that it was futile to argue, Sieg complied to the young paladin's words and the two flew off from their location. The latter laughing in delight as he rode on his back. Despite being his Master, the young homunculus felt like he was the Servant instead.

"Tch!"

Off in the distance observing the duo, one of the Assassin Personas clicked their tongue in annoyance.

"Damn it all, why did they have to appear now of all times!?"

He cursed. If Rider of Black and his Master interfered now, then all their planning for the day would have been for naught. They needed to buy some time, but with only him and a few of his brethren, how should they do so?

'I need to contact Master Julian!'


Within the mirror realm...

...!

For a moment, bursts of electricity erupted in the middle of the street before dissipating just as quickly as three individuals appeared.

Two of them were Aya and Gray, the other being one of Rider's men that he allowed accompany them.

"This is..."

Aya said to herself, trying to gain her bearings since the sudden shift in environment was somewhat unsettling to the young blonde.

Soon afterwards, she allowed herself to gaze at her surroundings.

Just like earlier but now reversed, the desert environment had disappeared and once again its place were the city streets. Though like before, the sky still glowed an ethereal light and darkness that covered the entire area. Meaning that they were still inside the Mirror Realm as Lord El-Melloi had called it as such.

"Looks like we're here." She couldn't help but mutter.

"Don't let your guard down, our enemies might be nearby..."

Gray stated as she took out what looked to be small bird cage from underneath her mantle. Aya was confused as to what it was for when there wasn't even a bird inside of it and instead strange looking box.

...!

Before she knew it, the same massive scythe that the white-haired girl wielded earlier reappeared in her hands. Now that she had time to think about it, the young blonde was somewhat curious as to where her giant weapon went after Rider had picked them on his chariot to escape the initial attack of their enemies.

Still, to wield such a thing so easily... Gray really was stronger than she looked. Though perhaps that was redundant as Aya had already seen the girl fight before during the battle at Yggdmillennia Castle. Compared to her, the white-haired girl was quite capable enough to easily handle any of the Dragon-Tooth Warriors that came her way. Zipping past them rather easily to be precise.

In fact, the way she fought somewhat reminded her of the way how Saber of Red fought against Saber of Black that one time. Though compared to Saber of Red, Gray had more finesse and style whereas the former was more unrefined in her techniques if she were to comment on it. That much she was able to tell on her own.

...!

Aya's senses immediately went on the alert as she whipped her head around and looked off into the distance. One look at the young blonde's face was enough for Gray to tell what she had just felt. Especially since she could see the Command Spells on the former's left hand glowing a faint red.

"Where are they?"

"Not far, and it looks like Lancer is in the middle of fighting someone!"

"Then we shall endeavor to support him." The soldier finally spoke up, causing the two to gaze at him. "I am Mithrenes. As per my King's command, I shall aid you both in your quest. I look forward to working with the both of you."

"Thank you Mithrenes-san." Aya stated with a grateful nod before turning to Gray. "Let's go!"

The latter nodded in turn, with the trio heading off towards Lancer's location.

"Tch!"

From atop a building unknown to the group, someone had observed their appearance in the middle of the street.

"Geez, now we've got more pests to deal with."

Beatrice muttered to herself, cleaning her ear out as she sat at the ledge of the rooftop.

Not long after Angelica had left to rendezvous with Archer, she saw the group appear from out of nowhere. Weren't they supposed to have been absorbed by Rider of Red's Noble Phantasm? At this rate, they'd probably interfere with the plan to deal with Lancer. Maybe she should contact Angelica?

Then again, maybe she shouldn't. After all, if their plan fails the blame would easily be placed on that blonde-haired bimbo since she was now the acting Master on the field.

...

"Ah damn it, I might as well...!"

Regardless of that, she'll probably receive a scolding from Lord Julian too. And as much as some of her fantasies would tell her otherwise, an angry Julian was not exactly something she was looking forward to.

With that, the redhead quickly stood up and went to find Angelica and Archer. Leaping across the buildings to quicken her pace.

And now that she had time to think about it, she might as well find Caster too. Powerful or not, it was time to put his lazy ass to work. Why Kotomine and Lord Julian bothered to even keep him around in the first place was beyond her.

"Beatrice."

"H-Huh? Lord Julian!?"

She yelped out in surprise at hearing her beloved Julian's voice inside her mind. She was taken aback by it so much, that the redhead failed to notice...

...!

"Gack!"

...the billboard that was right in front of her, atop the very roof she was currently on. Smacking straight into it before falling down on her bottom.

"Gah, that smarts...!"

Beatrice muttered to herself as she held her face painfully. Damn stupid billboard! Who the hell thought it was a good idea to place it there!? Once she found out the one responsible, she'll kill them dead!

"What in blazes are you doing?"

Julian's voice cut through her thoughts once more, causing the redhead to quickly straighten herself out.

"Aah, n-nothing! It's nothing!" She stated, before trying to change the subject. "So why are you calling me Lord Julian? Ugh, I'm not slacking off. That Tohsaka bitch is back, so I was just about to head over to Angelica and Archer to-"

"Forget about them, I'll pass it on myself." Julian replied. "In the meantime, I have another task for you. Assassin has informed me that we have uninvited guests just outside the Mirror Realm. I want you to deal with them before they discover the relay point that sustains it."

"Oh? How do you want me to deal with them~?"

She asked, smirking slightly in delight. If what Lord Julian was telling her to do was what she thought it was, then she couldn't help but feel ecstatic!

"Kill them. Use the card I gave you earlier."

...!

Smiling in delight, Beatrice quickly pulled out a Class-Card from her pocket. One that had the word BERSERKER imprinted upon it.

However, unlike other Class-Cards, it lacked the associated image of said Servant-Class.

"Don't let your guard down. The process isn't perfect yet, so it won't be able to access some of the Heroic Spirit's abilities. And while Rider of Black looks to be a weak Servant when compared to the others, but he's nonetheless strong together with his Master."

"Ah, so it's the pretty boy and the homunculus is it? This is going to be fun!"

With a wild grin on her face, Beatrice held up the card and shouted.

"Install!"


"Damn it, where the hell did that bastard go?"

Making his way through the streets, Lancer continued his search for the Archer known as Robin Hood.

A while had already passed since he last caught trace of the latter's presence. Thanks to whatever it was that allowed Archer to disappear, the blue-haired spearsman suspected that his foe was already lining up his next shot once more. Thankfully Archer had to make his presence known whenever he was taking said shot, which allowed the former to react just in time whenever he did.

Still, with so much cover to be had with the numerous buildings around, Archer had the advantage. The latter could even sneak up on him if he wanted to, though he doubted that would happen considering that an Archer's greatest strength was in their ability to take out their targets from a distance.

'Assassin isn't attacking anymore either... Did I get all those bastards or did they just run out?'

Indeed, along with Archer disappearing so too did Assassin of Black and his multiple personas. He couldn't decide if it was either because of them deciding to retreat for now planning their next attack or if it was because they had all been taken out already. A rather annoying ability to be sure, being unable to determine your opponent's own death since he had the ability to present himself as multiple individuals.

'Still, better not let my guard down... I'd rather not-'

...!

Coming to a stop atop a roof, Lancer allowed his gaze to fall down upon the sight below him.

'What the hell is he doing...?'

Not from where he was, down the street by himself stood Archer. He had expected the latter to try to sniping him again from another building, yet he was just standing there instead. His presence uncovered even.

Something was wrong, Archer had to know that he was exposed as he was. Was he setting up a trap for him? It was likely, but even then there was something off with how the former was going about it at the moment.

Still, not exactly one to stray from a fight, Lancer jumped down to face his foe. Landing just a few meters in front of Archer.

"Heh, got tired of running and hiding did you?"

"..."

"Well then, I guess we're settling this man to man then?"

"..."

"Tch!"

Great, Archer wasn't even responding to him. Considering their banter earlier, something really was wrong.

'Ah, screw it...!'

Deciding that he might as well got it over with, the blue-haired spearsman twirled Gae Bolg and got into position. Trap or no, it was better to get it over with now rather than later. He just hoped that Ayaka was doing alright while he was doing his thing. Her presence had somehow disappeared together with the others.

Still, considering who she was with, he had faith that Rider and the others could protect her.

...!

"Huh? Ayaka...?"

The sound of thunder echoed throughout the area, momentarily distracting him with its noise. He couldn't tell where it came from, but from the moment it appeared, Lancer felt the presence of his Master once more.

...!

"...!?"

Having heard a sudden burst, Lancer reacted just in time as Archer pulled out a sword and struck him where he stood.

...!

The ground beneath them shook, cracks spreading as a crater was formed.

"The hell...?!"

He was taken aback when he suddenly felt an absurd amount of strength coming from Archer as the two struggled against each other. While he knew little of the legend of Robin Hood, he knew for a fact that he wasn't supposed to be super strong.

Metal clashed against metal as a trade of blows began between the two of them. Lancer also noted that the orange-haired rogue's speed had suddenly increased too, now being fast enough to keep up with him for some reason.

Regardless of the reason, this fight had become a lot more fun now.

"Heh! What happened!? Finally decided to get serious!?"

The rogue continued to remained silent as they fought. He was either being arrogant or just trying to annoy him. Either way, Lancer wouldn't have it. Even with his strength and newly discovered speed, one thing was for sure...

...!

Archer's blade flew off, and seeing a chance, Lancer went in for the kill.

"It's not going to help you!"

...!

"Wha-!?"

Widening his eyes, Lancer could only stare on in shock as Archer intercepted his strike with his bare hands. Stopping the spear's tip just before it struck him in the heart. It was a movement that was so fast that he didn't even realize it until after the fact.

He could only smirk in delight at this, maybe he should have given more credit to Archer after-

"YEW BOW..."

...!

"Gargh...!"

His vision went red as his mind was filled with the sensation of a sudden pain erupting from his shoulder. Before anything else could happen between him and his foe, Lancer quickly kicked Archer away, hard enough that he was sent flying into a wall, and gazed at his wound.

"A crossbow bolt...!?"

Realizing the only person who could be behind it, Lancer gazed into the direction behind him where the bolt had come from. Scanning the buildings as fast as he could with what his eyes could manage even if he wasn't an Archer himself.

If he was right, then-

"Huh!? I knew it...!"

There he was... standing atop a building was a person.

Said person being Archer himself, the bastard had grin on his face as he stared down at Lancer.

"Heh, didn't see that one coming did you?"

Archer stated. Though he couldn't hear him, he could tell as much through lip movement alone, with a smug smile accompanying them as well.

Damn it, if Archer was there, then who the hell was he-!?

"Raargh...!"

A chilling growl could be heard coming from behind him. Turning about, he looked into the wall where he had kicked Archer into...

"...!?"

There in Archer's place stood a taller figure than the individual he had been fighting just now, and one whose overall appearance was different to the rogue archer. Wearing armor as black as night and covered in mist, an overwhelming blood-lust could be felt emanating from the figure as he stepped out of the hole in the wall, raising his head as he stared directly at the Hound of Chulainn.

"Well... shit."

Having realized who he was, Lancer cursed himself for his own luck...

"RAAAAAAAAAARGH!"


"Are you certain it was wise to send out Berserker?"

"Not quite, but given the situation, it would be naive of us to not take advantage of it."

Outside standing upon the terrace and looking down upon the clouds were Shirou and Julian, the latter voicing his doubts about the former's decision to send out the Knight of the Lake out on his current task. With Berserker gone, all that left their defenses was the former, Saber, and the defenses provided by the fortress itself.

"I understand your concern Julian, but relax for a moment and think of the benefits if we succeed." Shirou replied with his usual smile. "As I had suspected, Rider of Red's Noble Phantasm was a Reality Marble. It was quite advantageous in that by using it to shift the battlefield for himself and Lancer of Red, it left the Hound of Chulainn all by his lonesome. With them gone, Berserker can now take him on without worry."

True, he himself was quite worried regarding their situation at the moment. He knew that there was only one person who could discover their location, and if said person decided to pay a visit to them as it were, then there was no telling what might happen.

Still, risks had to be taken if one were to achieve his goals. Such was what life had taught him so. One other reason was that he discovered through one of Assassin's personas that the group led by Kairi Shishigou was taking part in a battle against three of Sajyou Manaka's Servants. He didn't know how or why it happened, but seeing as how the latter's group was now distracted, he felt now was a good time to send the Black Knight out while they had the chance.

"It's not that I'm concerned about," Julian stated as he shook his head. "But I'd rather would have sent him and Angelica after Rider of Black and that homunculus Master of his instead. You know for yourself that the system hasn't been perfected yet. The chances of failure are quite high."

Shirou merely nodded in understanding. "I understand your concern, but think of this as a sort of field test for the Install System. You've yet to perform one haven't you? What better way to compare the imitation to the original? Besides, if all goes according to plan, then the price is all the more worth it."

The black-haired youth shook his head once more. It was always like this whenever they would argue over something. He'd say something, and Kotomine would find a way to counter his words. He sometimes wondered to himself why his father and grandfather decided to work with him if this was the case with their relationship with him as well.

Then again, his aid also helped jump start their own projects as well. Mainly in regards to their work regarding the Holy Grail War and the Class-Cards. With a live Servant around who also knew about magecraft himself, he was quite an asset to say the least.

"By the way..."

Julian turned to look at Kotomine, who was now suddenly smirking for some reason.

"Last night I overheard you talking to Erika on the phone." The former froze up as the latter smiled. "She had a nightmare didn't she? And that you assured her that it was all just a dream and wished her good night?"

"What about it...?" The black-haired youth muttered in annoyance. "Is there anything wrong with me comforting my little sister?"

"Nothing at all, a good older sibling is one who takes care of their younger siblings after all." Shirou shook his head, placing a hand upon Julian's shoulder. "Just be sure to take these moments while you can. Our work here could invariably lead to an early death should we fail in our mission, and I'd rather not let Erika live without her two siblings around to be with her anymore."

"You fool, we won't fail." Julian scoffed as he turned to leave. "Besides, I'm the only sibling Erika has left to begin with. I don't plan on dying anytime soon."

"Oh? Then what about Angelica?"

The former stopped at this, pausing for a good moment. The white-haired hero knew he had struck a nerve with his words.

"That woman... is no longer the sister we once knew."

With that Julian left, leaving Shirou by himself with the latter sighing at the former's words as he looked up towards the sky.

"Zachary, your children have a rather complicated relationship right now..." He spoke, though knowing that no one would reply. "I'll do what I can for them old friend, but it seems like an uphill battle from where I stand."

Between managing the Rogue Faction and dealing with their enemies, Shirou truly had his work cut out for him.

"Heh..."

A thought which merely brought a smile to his face as he walked back into the fortress himself.


"The fighting is getting louder!"

Aya commented as she, Gray, and Mithrenes ran down the streets closing in on Lancer's current battle. Whoever it was he was fighting against, they needed to ready themselves for the inevitable. It was likely Archer, meaning they were in for a long-ranged battle. And on the chance that some of Assassin's personas were still alive, then they'd need to be on the alert as well.

...!

"Huh? This feeling is..."

Gray muttered to herself, her mind telling her that something was amiss.

"You were both better off staying by the side of El-Melloi..."

"...!?"

The white-haired girl stopped running as did the other two, readying themselves as a voice had suddenly spoken out towards the group.

"Who was that just now? The enemy...?"

Aya stated in wonder and caution. Gray turned to her, but the quickly noted the strange shadow beneath-!?

"Look out!" She called out.

Before Aya knew it, above her was a hooded figure poised to strike her.

...!

Reacting as quickly as he could, Mithrenes parried its blow and struck it down. It was sent crashing into the side of a building. The young blonde had to blink several times before realizing what had just happened. Turning to look at herself, her assailant, and her protector.

"T-Thank you...!" Aya said, snapping out of her daze.

"It was my pleasure." He simply smiled and nodded.

Upon closer inspection, Aya was able to take note of her assailant's full appearance. The weapon it used being directly attached to the forearm as well. To be precise, like it somehow came out of it. And beneath its hood, there lied no face. Rather, it had a face but one that wasn't human at all.

"A mannequin...?"

A porcelain white face with no expression on it, an artificial construct it would seem. Her grandmother had told her about such things before, about how some magi would use constructs such as these to do their work, but this was her first time encountering one in action.

...!

The blonde quickly turned around as she heard several thuds. Once she did so, she saw several more mannequins ready to strike at them.

Seeing how close they were to their destination, Mithrenes quickly came to one conclusion.

"Allow me to handle this, you two go on ahead!"

He declared before he then charged the enemy. Seeing no point in arguing, both girls complied and left the scene.


"Do you think he'll be alright?"

Not long afterwards, they were now a fair distance away from Mithrenes' battle with the mannequins.

"I believe so." Gray replied as she and the blonde continued onto their destination. "The soldiers within Rider of Red's Reality Marble are pseudo-Servants. While they won't be able to display their true capabilities thanks to the nature of how they're summoned, they're still above the strength of regular humans. Dealing with artificial constructs such as those shouldn't be much of a problem."

"I see."

Aya nodded in understanding. She also took note of the fact that this was probably the longest she had heard the white-haired girl speak. Somehow, it was kinda strange actually. But better she kept that to herself less she insult her companion after all.

"That's quite enough now, I'll kindly ask that you both stop now."

A voice called out, which was the very same one from earlier, and the girls turned to look at the source.

There, atop the ledge of a small building, stood a tall young woman with long blonde hair tied into twin tails wearing a simple blouse, a long skirt, and boots. She was rather beautiful all things considered, but the look in her eyes sent a shiver down Aya's spine.

The woman then neatly landed on the ground, casually walking towards the two girls as both raised their guards.

"Tohsaka Ayaka." She called out, surprising the younger blonde as the former held out her hand. "My name is Angelica, and I'm going to be taking it back now."

"Huh? Taking it back...?"

"Indeed, that which you stole from us obviously." Angelica pointed out, crossing her arms together. "Don't tell me that you've already forgotten, the generous gift that Kotomine lent to you for your protection back then."

"Ah...!" Aya quickly reeled back in realization before glaring at the former. "Lancer would never join you!"

"Irrelevant, it doesn't matter what he chooses to do." She merely replied. "At any rate, I'm not here to debate the matter any longer."

Snapping her fingers together, several mannequins appeared beside Angelica through strange portals. Two of them then knelt before her, presenting the blonde with a pair of finely crafted swords to use as she then turned to look at the two once more.

"These are the Ainsworth Dolls. Do the two of you have what it takes to face them-"

Before a reply could be had, Gray had closed the distance and was poised to strike with her weapon. Surprising even Angelica with her speed, as it was even faster than what she had expected from the white-haired girl.

...!

The sound of metal echoed briefly as scythe met sword as Angelica parried the former's attack, with both standing there ground as they looked into each other's eye.

"Irrelevant, we have no intentions of losing to you."

"You brat..."

...!

Gray leaped away as she avoided being struck by the sword the older woman had in her other hand, landing right beside Aya as she glanced at her.

"Are you able to back me up?"

"I-I'll do my best...!"

The white-haired girl merely smiled at this before turning her attention back towards their enemy.

Not long afterwards, both she and Angelica charged one another once more.

...!


...!

"Gah...!"

"Rider!"

Materializing his wings, Sieg flew up and caught his friend before he slammed into a wall.

"My thanks..." The young paladin smiled slightly while holding his side in pain.

Inside a warehouse, Sieg and Astolfo arrived at the location of the strange scent that the former had picked up on earlier. When they arrived, they also noted that a boundary field had been set up around it and the surrounding area. Most likely to prevent potential witnesses.

Knowing that perhaps entering would result in them entering a trap, the Twelfth Paladin of Charlemagne decided to do so anyway. Better to face the enemy head on after all, and being the pinkette's Master, Sieg followed suit and entered as well.

What they found was something that neither expected...

"Ahahaha~! What's the matter, that all you got pretty boy!?"

Standing in the middle of the room was a orange-haired girl of short stature, wearing what appeared to be simply a vest, pants, and bandages over her arms. She literally came out of nowhere as she began assaulting the two of them.

Astolfo tried to intercept her, thinking that it would have been easy but he had underestimated his foe when several punches and kicks were sent his way, causing him to reel back once she proved strong and fast enough to keep up with the young paladin.

"Is she supposed to be a Servant...?" He asked. From their quick bout just now, the young paladin could tell that the girl had enough physical strength to punch away his head. Perhaps if not for luck, he would have already been dead.

"I don't think so, he scent is more or less that of a human." Sieg replied as he helped his companion up. "However, her presence is similar to a Servant at the same time. Albeit, greatly weaker compared to the others."

"The hell you say you damn meat puppet!?" Beatrice demanded.

...!

Both dodged the incoming metal beam thrown their way.

"Call me weak again and I'll tear your balls out very slowly!"

...

"Rider..."

"Ahahaha~ Indeed, this person reminds me a little of Saber of Red." Astolfo chuckled briefly before a serious expression grew on his face. "At any rate, have you noticed that strange tag stuck to that beam behind her?"

"I have, and it looks as though she's trying to guard it."

Sieg replied telepathically. When they entered the warehouse earlier, the first thing both noticed was said strange tag. Sieg could tell on sight that it was the source of the very same energy and scent he had been sensing since their arrival within the area.

As he further eyed said tag and realized something. "Wait, that tag looks like one of those Class-Cards that Miss Tohsaka showed us earlier before we left."

"Really?" The young paladin stated with a grin growing on his face. "It's quite suspicious that something like that is here, and not to mention that you said it's the source of the strange energy you were smelling earlier didn't you? I say that we remove it and see and what happens!"

Normally Sieg would be opposed to such thinking as recklessly dealing with unknown magecraft tended to end disastrously for the unprepared, but Rider was on point in saying it was somewhat suspicious to see a card here of all places and stuck to a beam.

And with that...

"Hrrgh...!"

Concentrating further, Sieg's hands were then engulfed in flames. Transforming his human like hands into dragon-scaled cover claws. His canines also began growing a bit longer, his hair growing somewhat disheveled too. Giving the regularly proper looking Sieg a feral look.

"Hold nothing back Rider!"

"Ahaha! No need to fear, for I, Astolfo, have no intentions of losing today!"

"Come and get me then, I'll bring both your heads to Lord Julian as a gift!" Beatrice grinned in delight.


"HAHAHAHA!"

Riding down a highway atop a golden motorcycle was a certain blonde-haired duo. The driver being a young man with striking red eyes and behind him was a young girl who looked to be in her early teens, eyes as blue as the sky itself.

Said duo was none other than Archer of Red and Reines, the latter of whom hung onto dear life as she noted that Archer was clearly enjoying speeding down the highway.

"Would you slow down a little you damn fool!? At this speed I'm bound to fall off!"

"Hahahaha!" The Golden King merely laughed in amusement. "Then you should have just stayed at home then Reines, it would have been much safer for you there!"

"And what kind of Master would I be if I allowed my Servant to go somewhere without me?" She shouted back, barely able to hear her own words thanks to the wind. "To begin with, it's terribly boring to just sit and do nothing at the estate. I'd rather be out here with you, as reckless a driver you are at any rate."

"Heh, well said!" Gilgamesh replied with a smirk, though she couldn't see it from where she was but knew it to be the case. "Nothing in life is ever worth doing without partaking in a bit of risk. Continue to stand by my side Reines and you shall learn more than you ever will than at that stagnant group you call the Association."

"Hmph, I suppose we shall see."

"Indeed, now ready yourself!"

"Huh?! Aaah!"

Increasing speed, the Golden King continuously weaved through the bustling traffic with great ease, to the awe of some of the other drivers on the road as they watched the duo. It was a miracle that they hadn't hit anyone yet with the speeds they were going at. At this rate, they would have reached their destination in no time at all.

Still, the young blonde couldn't help but ask herself as to how Archer had gotten so good at riding a motorcycle. Especially since he actually lacked a Riding skill to begin with. That, and he had only spent a short amount of time with the one she got for him, and that was nearly a week ago by now.

When she had asked, all Archer said was:

Hah, nothing is impossible for me!

As amusing as his words were, she wasn't really surprised and perhaps should have even expected it. Archer was the King of Heroes after all. And as some would say, motorcycles were basically metal horses. She supposed that it just came naturally.

Onto more pressing matters, she was also curious to learn more about the current situation regarding Waver and Gray's group. Ruler being unable to detect the presence of Rider of Red and the others was not a good thing. Although a part of her wanted to go investigate the situation together with Archer, Ruler had already sent for Rider of Black and his homunculus Master Sieg to go instead.

For now, they had other matters to attend to and that was to check on Kairi Shishigou and his group instead. Caster had earlier tried to communicate with them to no avail, meaning something must have happened to them as well.

With that said, Reines wasn't as worried about Shishigou's group as she was about Waver's. Mostly because the latter simply had a bigger target on his back compared to the former. Worst case scenario, they were dead. A part of her wanted to believe otherwise, but she had to consider the possibility as well. And in the event that something were to happen to her dear brother, either Shishigou or herself would have to assume his role as the Association's eyes, ears, and sword in the current conflict.

'Don't die you fool, I'm not done with you yet. You haven't paid me and my family back completely until I say so...'

...!

"Wah!?"

The sound of a loud horn and a sudden swerve caught Reines off guard as she held on tightly to her Servant.

When regained her bearings, she noticed a truck passing them by as the passenger window lowered itself as a man began yelling.

"Watch where you're going you damn foreigner!"

"What was that!? You fools are obviously at fault for even daring to try and overtake me!"

Reines merely sighed in annoyance at this, mostly at the fact that Archer decided to even respond in the first place.


...!

"Argh!"

Mordred's body surged in pain as several arrows pierced through her right shoulder and arm, blowing her away with such force that Red Knight quickly found herself pinned to a large rock. Blood beginning to flow from her wounds.

Damn it all, that attack just now was something that she should have easily been able to intercept!

"Aargh...!"

"You ready to give up now?"

Arash questioned as he appeared in front of the young blonde.

"Never, I'd rather die!"

The latter exclaimed as she at former, causing him to flinch somewhat at it's intensity. He noted this earlier, but he had never imagined that that the well-mannered and chivalric Saber would father such a ferocious daughter. Even with what little he knew of Saber of Red's legend and her... complicated relationship with her father, it was still something that was bewildering to the black-haired archer.

"Indeed, you're truly nothing like him at all." He couldn't help but voice with a chuckle and smile. "Who knew that Saber fathered such a ferocious daughter, I somehow feel a bit of sympathy towards him now."

"What was that!? I dare you to repeat that!"

...!

"Whoa!"

Arash leaped back, avoiding a kick to the face as Saber quickly broke free of her restraints. Unflinchingly, she then pulled out the arrow from her wounded shoulder and crushed it in her hands, her sword reappearing in her hand as she raised it towards the

"Continue to mock me as you like, I'll soon have your head!"

Once again, Arash couldn't help but chuckle. Saber of Red's responses truly were something to behold when compared to her father.

With that, the two continued their duel.

As for the Red Knight herself, the moment she lifted her arm pain surged once more throughout her shoulder. No doubt that with her current injury, her fighting ability had been hampered. Damn it, why was she having such a hard time with a mere Archer!? She should have been one to have the advantage, not the other way around!

...!

The blonde sliced through several arrows aimed her way, her shoulder once more searing in pain.

'Damn it all...!'

"What's the matter? Slowing down already!?"

"Not yet!"

...!

For a moment, Arash watched on in curiosity as to what his opponent was doing. Saber of Red's energy suddenly spiked, her entire form glowing just then. Just when he was about to ready himself for her attack...

"You're too slow!"

...!

"Gargh!"

Before he knew it, the blonde-haired knight closed the distance between the two of them and sliced his chest open. Luckily for him, he was able to react in time and leap back before her attack got too deep, resulting in a wide but non-fatal wound at best.

'Still, that was too close for comfort. What was that...!?'

"Heh, that smile on your face has disappeared I see."

Smirking in delight, Mordred stood proud at the sight of her work. Her idea had worked as she hoped, and now she and Archer both had injuries to their person hampering their fighting capability. Something that her opponent also took note of himself.

"Not bad Saber, but I'll be returning the favor soo-!?"

Arash raised his head, looking towards the Red Knight before freezing up and finding himself a bit speechless at the sight of the young blonde.

Right now, what in the name of god was she wearing...?

"Ugh... Saber, what happened to your armor?"

"What about it?" Mordred stated with narrowed eyes. "Does my current form offend you?"

"No, it's just that, well..."

It was already pretty clear to him that Saber of Red disliked being treated as a woman, so he had to choose his words carefully otherwise he might offend and make her even angrier than she already was. Suffice it to say, that was a bit of task in itself.

Her armor gone, her current outfit revealed itself to be rather... free in nature. It wasn't so much her current state of dress that bothered him but the fact that she was actually parading around in such a thing to begin with. That's what she wore underneath her armor?

"Now I'm curious what your father would have to say about this..." He muttered quietly to himself, unaware that the blonde had heard him speak.

Several moments passed as the black-haired archer's words repeated themselves in Mordred's mind.

What did Archer mean by that? Why would her father even... Wait a minute!

An angry blush grew on the Red Knight's face as she charged.

"YOU DIE NOW!"


"Hehe~!"

Observing the battle between Archer and Saber of Red through her crystal ball was a certain blonde-haired girl, giggling to herself all the while watching the spectacle seated atop a bed. Beside her sat a fox-eared woman tended to the young blonde's hair as she braided a portion of it.

"My my, such an amusing character Saber of Red is isn't she Master? She takes being a hothead to a whole new level!" Tamamo laughed in amusement. "It's quite amazing really, she's nothing at all like Saber. Not one bit~"

"True, even I can't believe it even now." Manaka nodded in agreement, her face scrounged up in confusion as she tried to make sense of the idea itself. "I suppose she got it from her mother then. Yes, that's probably it."

Morgan Le-Fay, an evil witch renowned for her part in King Arthur's downfall. Some sources said that she was also the King's half-sister, and that by producing a child with her did his downfall began as punishment from the heavens for committing the taboo of incest. Manaka didn't really care about any of that, but she wondered to herself what kind of person the actual Morgan was. If Saber of Red was of any indication, then maybe the legends held some truth to them after all.

'Still...'

"What's the matter Master~?"

The pink-haired woman smirked in delight as she saw the darkened expression on her the young blonde's face. From the looks of it, she didn't even notice as her young Master turned her gaze towards her in confusion.

"What is it?"

"Don't tell me, you're jealous right now aren't you? That another woman managed to bear Saber's child before you did~?"

"B-Be quiet Caster...!" Manaka exclaimed as she huffed in the other direction.

"Ahaha, I knew it~!" Tamamo giggled as she held the blonde close from behind. "Do not fret my lovely child. I, Tamamo-san, will ensure that Saber's love and attention shall always be directed towards you and you only! If he doesn't agree, then I shall make him see reason with my special technique: the Polygamist Castration Fist!"

"Somehow that makes me feel a little nervous..."

Truth be told however, Caster's words did hit a mark. Although she knew that it was integral to Saber's legend as the reason why he fell from grace, a part of her couldn't help but resent the very idea of her Prince having a child with another woman.

Was this what jealousy felt like? Caster had called it as such, and the last time she had felt such a similar emotion was when she saw her younger sister Ayaka getting along rather well Saber all those years ago. However, if she had to compare what she felt then and now, then the former was basically a childish reaction on her part. She was mature enough to admit that now. Why bother getting jealous over her younger sister? After all, Saber only had eyes for her.

As for the latter on the other hand... well, the best she could describe it was something clawing at her chest. The moment she first met Saber of Red tripled that feeling. She had seen the Knight of Treachery before thanks to her observations of the war, but meeting her in person was a different experience altogether.

Having rarely experience such things before, the emotions she felt that day felt so strange and alien to her. Something that Manaka didn't like one bit at all. As such, that moment she decided that the best way to be rid of said emotions was to be rid herself of the person that was causing said feelings to swell up inside her.

Alas, she failed however thanks to Ruler's intervention. She would have followed up her attack but her interest and curiosity in the Servant-Mediator who was currently her beloved Prince's Master got the better of the young blonde.

'Ruler...'

She didn't really dwell on it during their first meeting, but there was something about Ruler that felt off. Manaka couldn't tell what it was at the moment but felt that perhaps it had something to do with the Trifas Grail currently in her possession. If so, all the more reason to investigate the matter further. Sadly, the security measures on the grail were making said task rather difficult. Hours had passed since they had discovered said measure and so far no progress. Just who in the world could have placed such a thing that even her and Caster together couldn't break through it?

While thinking that, a smile found it's way to the young blonde's face as a thought came to her.

'I suppose it doesn't matter, I'll just have to get bit more serious~'

Tamamo saw this and couldn't help but smile slowly herself.

"Master... you're so adorable when you smile~!"

"Gah! Caster not so tight...!"


"You both are an impressive bunch, I'll give you that..."

Angelica stated, watching as Gray and Aya took time to catch their breaths. Surrounding the three were the littered remains of the dolls that blonde had brought along to deal with both, but she didn't think that they'd be taken down so soon. She had underestimated them it seems.

"Are you alright?"

Gray asked, turning her head slightly to the other blonde behind her.

"I-I'm fine...!" The glasses-wearing girl replied jerking somewhat in panic for a moment. "Hehe, it looks you're not too winded yourself aren't you Gray-san?"

The white-haired girl merely shrugged at this, returning her attention towards Angelica herself. The dolls were easy enough to manage, being little more than controlled automatons not that different from the Dragon-Tooth Warriors that they had fought against during the Rogue Factions assault the other night.

As for the woman herself however, she was...

...!

"Get down!"

Reacting on instinct, Gray dove to the ground taking her companion with her. Both narrowly avoided the metal ball that flew straight at them. Looking up, they saw diamond shaped portals of light floating beside Angelica. A sight which somewhat reminded the two of Archer of Red and his method of attack.

"Well now, will the two of you give up or will die here? Whichever you decide is up to you, but-"

...!

Charging ahead in a burst, Gray swung her scythe at the blonde-haired woman. The latter parrying her strike with her swords, moments later following it up with a barrage of metal balls shooting out of the portals at great speeds.

Twisting and turning her body, Gray miraculously managed to avoid them as she continued her assault on Angelica. Aya couldn't help but watch in amazement at seeing the younger girl fight against an older more experienced opponent, using the large scythe in her hands to attack and parry strikes like it was nothing.

Still, it wasn't doing any real good against their foe. In addition to being a strong melee fighter, she also had that strange magic that was rather similar to Archer of Red's style of attack. Shooting out small metal balls through them at incredible speeds. The scary thing was that from the looks of it, her attacks were coming at them faster and faster with each use. With Gray's ability to dodge them at close proximity was an amazing feat in itself.

...!

Gray and Angelica then separated, both taking time to rest for a moment as they gazed at each other once more.

"Not bad. However, your efforts are futile." The latter simply stated. "If you give up the Lancer Card now, I'll be willing to spare you both."

"W-What?" Aya stuttered in surprise.

"Is it that surprising? Lancer originally belonged to us, you merely managed to steal his card thanks to Kotomine's foolishness." Angelica replied, turning her attention towards the said person. "Right now, we're simply taking him back."

"As if Lancer would listen to you people! He'd never go along with what your planning!"

"His opinion does not matter, a Servant's purpose is to obey their Master. Regardless of whoever they are, that is the simple truth."

"Then what about sparing us both? You're forgetting that we're enemy Masters..." Gray added.

"Indeed, killing you both would be the simpler solution." Angelica replied, closing her eyes as she continued. "However, do not forget that with the existence of Sajyou Manaka and her Servants, this war has now officially turned into a three-way struggle. Tactically speaking, it would be better to spare you for now. You might be able to take care of our mutual enemy in our place if we couldn't."

Gray merely narrowed her eyes at this knowing that the former had a point. She didn't know much about who their enemy was aside from the basics, but according to her ancestor and Ruler she was a dangerous person especially with the Servants she had on her side.

"If that's the case, then why did you attack us!?" Aya demanded. "If that's what you really believe, then we should be working together shouldn't we!?"

"Regardless of our common foe, the fact remains that you are also our enemy as well. And we cannot let that pass." Angelica stated. "While we do not wish to cripple you all too badly, taking out El-Melloi and his Servant would prove beneficial to us in the long run."

Both girls widened their eyes at this. So their targets all this time were Waver and Rider of Red!?

"AS IF OUR KING WILL FALL TO THE LIKES OF YOU PEOPLE!"

...!

From high above, Mithrenes appeared and swung his spear down upon Angelica. Having anticipated his strike, the former simply dodged by leaping back a distance.

"Mithrenes-san!" Aya cried out, glad to see their companion was alright.

"Both of you get out here! I'll handle this, you have something you need to correct?"

With no more words being said, Gray made her way towards Aya and carried the latter over her shoulder, speeding away from the area as fast as she could.

Angelica merely clicking her tongue somewhat in annoyance. Well, not that it mattered. By now, the plan should have succeeded already. With Archer's aid, Lancer's fate was already sealed. They merely needed to wait it out for now and retrieve his card once the deed was done.

"Come at me then woman, I'll show you the strength my loyalty to my king!"

"Pointless bluster, just die!

...!


"BELLEROPHON!"

"EVADE!"

Iskander cried out as his soldiers did as told, quickly doing their best to avoid being hit by the ball of white light headed towards them.

...!

Unfortunately the order came too late, Perseus quickly cut through a great slew of his men. Following up her ally's attack, the Chaste Huntress took action as she raised her bow towards the sky.

"PHOEBUS CATASTROPHE!"

...!

A hail of arrows began raining down on his army, he watched as some defended themselves while others perished due to the assault. As they began their counterattack, the duo flew high once more evading their strikes. At this, Iskandar merely narrowed his eyes. No matter the fact that they had already died once, he couldn't stand seeing his men being taken down as they were.

Some time had passed since he had brought out Ionioi Hetairoi, and so far no progress. He had to respect Archer and Rider for that, they were managing to hold their own against an army well over the hundreds of thousands. It was such a shame that they were his enemies and that he would need to cut them down.

"Heh, such a vexing duo we face... wouldn't you agree boy?"

"True, you have a bad compatibility with the two of them together."

Waver muttered in reply. He couldn't help but curse their luck. Although Rider's Reality Marble was still filled to the brim with legions of his men, they really weren't getting anywhere in their battle with Archer and Rider. The latter's ability to fly at great speeds thanks to his mount was a great hurdle to overcome, especially once it covered itself in light and charged in what he believed to be its main attack.

Twice now they had suffered such an attack from the Rogue Rider. Judging it from that, it seemed it wasn't something he could use continuously as opposed to Archer and her near constant use of her own Noble Phantasm.

At the moment, it was merely a contest of endurance between their forces. While a Reality Marble was an incredible ability, it wasn't something that could last for a long duration of time. If Waver had to guess, then Archer and Rider likely knew of this and were content on merely waiting them out until time came for Rider to dispel it.

As the Master and Servant duo contemplated on how to deal with them, high in the sky above their foes were have their own talk as well...

"How are you doing Rider? Can you still keep it up?" Atalanta asked.

"Do not fret, I'm still able to be of service."

The son of Zeus replied. Truth be told however, he expected himself to be in worse shape after using Bellerophon twice now thanks to his injuries. It was either thanks to luck or fate that he hadn't tired himself out yet. Perhaps the Gods were once again watching over him?

Perseus smirked to himself. To the person that he was right now, such an idea was laughable to say the least.

Yes, for the sake of that person, he was willing to tarnish his name and become a villain much like the ones he had slayed in the past before. The irony was not lost on him, having to remind himself of the fact every now and again.

Still, if he and his allies were to succeed in their plans to bring peace to the world, then the wish that his Master had believed in would come true.

The son of Zeus would make sure of it, for that person's sake as well...

...!

A fair distance away from their location, echoes of another battle could be heard raging on.

Said battle was none other than the one between the two Lancers: Achilles and Karna. Two great heroes of their era, neither showed any signs of being weariness as they fought. Sand kicking up constantly from the sheer force of the blows traded between them.

"This is just insane..."

Atalanta couldn't help but mutter in awe. She held pride in her skill as a warrior and huntress, making a name for herself in a society dominated by men. But compared to the two warriors who were fighting right now, she couldn't help but feel humbled in comparison. Both of them truly did deserve respect, even if Lancer of Red's comments against her were rather insulting to her status.

'Still, how long will this keep up...?'


"Tch, Lancer is taking his time isn't he?"

Julian asked, being updated on the current status of the battle between their forces against the group of El-Melloi through Kotomine.

"Indeed, though I suppose part of it does have something to do with Lancer of Red. Between all Servants of the alliance, he's one of the select few that is able stand against our friend." The white-haired youth replied. "Considering his level of power, I suppose Lancer can't help but enjoy himself."

"Joy has nothing to do with the situation right now, tell him to wrap it up already!" Julian demanded. "We have no time for games, the longer we drag this out the higher chances of our failure in this operation. Beatrice is currently holding against both Rider and the Homunculus, but I'd rather not risk it and let the Mirror World fall apart."

"I suppose that's true..."

Shirou smirked as he raised his hand, a Command Spell glowing atop of it. If he ordered Lancer to use one of his Noble Phantasms, there was a likely chance of him annihilating everyone in a single go. The problem was getting him into a position to use it, as Lancer of Red's shield pose problematic to the idea.

Now though, with the Adamant Hero having been distracted with Lancer, the two had moved a fair distance away from Rider's position in the Reality Marble. Even with the former's speed, there was no way for him to counter what was about to come...

"Lancer..."

"Yes?"

"It's time to end this, use Brahmastra Kundala to annihilate them."

"Understood."


...!

"Gah!"

With one hard strike, Achilles found himself skidding across the sand by Karna's attack.

As he looked up to the white-haired demigod ready to strike back, he stopped when he saw a change in the former's demeanor. Earlier his eyes had that certain glint of joy that could only be found in those who found joy in battle. He himself had it as once described by a comrade, and Karna also had it.

Right now though, there was only that emotionless gaze... one that rubbed Achilles the wrong way.

"What are you planning?" He asked, seeing no harm in doing so.

"Apologies, but I must end this conflict now."

...!

At this, a surge of mana erupted from the demigod. The amount of which shocked the Adamant Hero for a moment before he merely smirked in delight, watching the former envelop himself and his weapon in red hot flames.

"Heh, finally using your Noble Phantasm are you!?" He stated, raising his shield and bracing himself for the attack.

High above, both Atalanta and Perseus sensed what their comrade was about to do.

"Time to distance ourselves I suppose."

The latter merely stated as he spurred Pegasus to further itself away from the army. Seeing this, Iskandar, who had also sensed the rogue's Lancer's sudden surge in power, realized what was about to happen himself and quickly turned to his men.

"ALL FORCES RETREAT! DON'T ALLOW YOURSELVES TO GATHER IN A SINGLE PLACE, SCATTER YOURSELVES NOW!"

Spinning the spear around, Karna readied himself into a throwing position. Between this and hearing Rider's order to his men, Achilles realized what his opponent's true aim was.

"Shit!"

Knowing that it was already too late to stop the white-haired demigod, the Adamant Hero quickly sped away towards Rider and Waver's location hoping to make it in time.

If they died here, then any victory obtained today would be meaningless!

To Karna, seeing his foe run to the aid of his comrades was admirable. However, there was no stopping what was about to come.

"BRAHMASTRA KUNDALA!"

With that, the spear flew...


"It should be right around here!"

Closing in on Lancer's location, Aya and Gray turned a corner and entered another district.

...!

"Gah!"

Just as they did, a blue blur flew by them and crashed into a building much to their surprise.

Looking towards it, they realized that said blue blur was none other than Lancer himself.

"Lancer!"

"Get back!"

He exclaimed, and not long afterwards a certain black knight appeared behind the two girls, in his hands an electric pillar serving as a makeshift weapon held high and ready to be swung at the two teens.

"RAAAAAGH!"

"B-Berserker!?"

"Tch!"

...!

Moving as fast as he could, Lancer parried the strike as wind kicked up from the force alone. He followed it up with a number of consecutive strikes, pushing back the maddened warrior and sending him flying with the final one into another building. Having brought some time, he glanced at the two girls behind him.

"Now then...!"

Before they knew it, the blue-haired warrior began waving symbols in the air. Moments later, he then picked both up in his arms and quickly left the area.

In the distance, Archer smirked in amusement at Lancer's escape attempt.

"Heh, think you can-Wha!?"

...!

An explosion soon enveloped the area where the trio had just stood, enveloping it and the nearby surroundings in smoke.

"Tch, bastard managed to get away..."

The orange-haired rogue clicked his tongue in distaste. He should have taken the shot when he had the chance. He hadn't known that Lancer was capable of using magecraft. Then again, perhaps he should have considering his identity.

...

Stopping once he was sure that they were safe, Lancer slumped to the floor, grinning slightly as he turned his attention towards both Aya and Gray.

"Heh, you two sure took your sweet time getting here..."

The trio currently hid inside a building, taking care to avoid one with visible windows to the outside. Although Archer and Berserker could sense Lancer's presence as fellow Servants, they wouldn't be able to find him immediately since said ability only gave a general feel of one's whereabouts.

"Are you alright?" The blonde asked worriedly, before noticing the wound on her Servants shoulder. "Ah! You're bleeding!"

"Yeah, mind closing that up?"

Wordlessly nodding, Aya did as told and placed her hands near the blue-haired warrior's shoulder. She wasn't exactly skilled at healing practices but she knew well enough about the topic for her to use it in times like these for a momentary patch job.

As the green light on his shoulder faded, Lancer smirked in delight as he stood up.

"Alright then, time to-Urgh!"

Just as he stepped forward, the Hound of Chulainn began coughing up blood rather violently.

"Ah, what's wrong now!?"

"Damn it all, that sneaky bastard is going to pay for this...!"

"You mean Archer? What did he do to you?!"

"Poison most likely." Gray spoke up for the first time as both turned to her. "Considering that Archer-Class Servants like to fight from a distance, there's a chance that one you fought against could have used poison in one of his attacks. Moving around the way you did earlier likely accelerated its spread as well."

"Yeah, that's pretty much it actually." Lancer replied, grinning once more. "Guess you could say that I screwed up big time."

"That doesn't matter right now!" Aya retorted. "Right now, we have to figure out how to deal with Berserker and Archer!"

"Leave that to me. If I do kick the bucket, then at the very least I owe it to Archer and Berserker to take their heads when a I do." Lancer's earlier smirk returned. "Hey Ayaka, mind giving me a hand?"

Knowing what he was referring to, the blonde-haired girl merely raised her left hand. True, the situation was rather dire. Berserker's sudden appearance threw her off somewhat but it wasn't unexpected considering the circumstances. Either way, they'll just have to deal with it now.

'God, please help us...' She prayed to herself.

With that, the sigils on her forearm glowed bright red, Aya then spoke the words:

"Lancer, by the power of my Command Spell, I order you to defeat both Archer and Berserker!"

"Hehehe, you got it little lady."

His body reinvigorated, the Hound of Chulainn stood ready for battle.


"Damn, where did that guy get off to?"

Robin cursed as he leaped from rooftop to rooftop, hoping to find out where his prey was at. He could already feel him close by, he just needed to be patient and the opportunity to strike will come. Berserker was off in another part of the area searching. While maddened, he was at least sane enough for such a task too.

'Still, to think that he can still stand and fight off Berserker and me after taking a direct hit from my Noble Phantasm... he's one tough bastard I'll give him that.'

As much as it annoyed him in having to deal with Lancer, he couldn't help but respect him a bit as a result. Once this was over, maybe the two of them could catch a drink or something after Angelica and the others converted the blue-haired warrior to their side. After all, he'd be able to rest easier with someone as capable as Lancer watching his back, even if the two of them now have a bit of history with each other now.

Hell, he could even invite Saber along. That would make it a party, Knight-Class Servants united!

"Archer, what's your current status?"

A certain blonde-haired woman's voice echoed inside his head. Robin didn't really know how Angelica did it, but he assumed that it was one of the powers of the Class-Cards that allowed her contact him so and thus didn't ask. No point in it after all since magecraft wasn't exactly his forte.

"Tracking down you know who, the big guy managed to give us the slip just now." He replied while continuing his search.

"What? You mean to tell me that Lancer still hasn't died yet?" Her voice asked, sounding rather incredulous at the revelation.

"Hey, don't blame us. I'm just as surprised as you are lady." The orange-haired rogue retorted. "Lancer's one tough nut to crack, managed to fend both me and Berserker while poisoned and only look a little winded afterwards."

"I see, I supposed I underestimated his worth..." Angelica replied. "At any rate, I've already finished my business here. Those two girls thought to stall me with one of Rider of Red's soldiers. I'm rendezvousing with you and Berserker now. Stay put."

"Hey, staying put is-"

"GAE BOLG!"

...!

"Gargh!"

Before he could even realize it, his chest was pierced by a certain red spear he was already quite familiar with.

He cried out in pain, losing his step as he plummeted into the streets below. He crashed into the pavement hard enough to leave visible cracks upon it, a pool of blood forming around the orange-haired rogue.

Looking up, he saw Lancer walking towards him with a smirk on his face.

"Bastard... how did you even...!?"

"Heh, that's what you get for using the same trick over and over again."

Having realized that his foe had an ability similar to presence concealment, the blue-haired warrior had been prepared on him a tracking rune earlier using a piece of Archer's cape he ripped off during one of their earlier scuffles for the medium. With that said, the rune only enhanced his own senses to be able to determine whether or not Lancer was in the area, and it needed some time to take effect since as a Lancer magic wasn't his forte. Had he been summoned as a Caster, things might have been different.

"I'll be taking that now."

"Argh!"

Yanking out his spear, the Hound of Chulainn simply twirled it around for a moment to rid it of the blood before hefting it on his shoulder. Gazing down at the now disappearing Servant, the blue-haired warrior spoke.

"Any last words?"

"Not really... if anything, I already got what I wanted..."

Dying really was such a pain in the ass, whether he was a human or a Servant it was the same thing.

Well, compared to how kicked the bucket last time, this was a better way to go out. The ending was kinda abrupt, but he did kinda enjoy the fight with Lancer regardless. Even if he was kinda cheating, Lancer still met him and his allies head on no complaints. He never admitted it to anyone else, but he always wanted to be able to fight like that too even if just once. Too bad pragmatism carried through with him most of the time.

'Huh, maybe Saber was onto something that day after all... Ah, too bad, and I was just starting to enjoy being with that guy...'

He thought in that, Robin Hood faded away. Leaving behind the Class-Card on the pavement where he had laid.

Stepping forward, Lancer raised his spear and stabbed the card where it laid. Ensuring that his foe wouldn't be coming back, he took time to breathe for a moment.

"Now then, to deal with you..."

Turning around, Lancer came face to face with Berserker who merely stood in front of him and looked down upon the former. Were it not for the helmet, he was probably right in the fact that the Black Knight was glaring down upon him right now.

"So, we just gonna stand here or something?" He smirked.

...!


"Ugh, this feeling is...!"

"Hah!"

Beatrice leaped away as she avoided being struck by Rider of Black's sword. Not long afterwards, Sieg followed up his Servant's attack with a breath of fire. The red-head merely glared in annoyance at this as she clapped her hands...

...!

...The force of which was enough to disperse the flames brought out by the white-haired homunculus. The duo couldn't help but look in amazement at said act as a result.

"Hahaha~! Now that's something right there, putting out fire with just a clap of one's hands. Such a remarkable thing~!"

"Rider, please do not praise the enemy." Sieg merely asked though he too felt the same somewhat.

Beatrice didn't care for whatever they had to say. Just now, something inside her felt like it was severed.

Grinding her teeth in anger, she began stomping her foot onto the ground rapidly.

...!

The warehouse then shook violently, as though an earthquake was taking place at that moment.

"Damn that bastard! Who the hell does he think he is getting himself killed off again!? Kenny Fucking McCormick!? I'm so going to let him have it later!"

"Oh my, it looks as though something has happened to upset our friend here."

Astolfo muttered with a somewhat blank stare at the scene. It was kinda funny actually to see the girl who called herself Beatrice letting loose like a wild animal. It really did kinda remind of Saber of Red when she got mad, he wondered to himself what would happen if the two ever met...

YOU WANNA DIE YOU BASTARD!?

He flinched, the mental image of the two suddenly ganging up on him with angry looks on their faces sending a shiver down his spine. Maybe it wasn't such a good idea...


...!

The Hound of Chulainn and Black Knight resumed their battle. From a safe distance, Gray and Aya watched as the blue-haired warrior fared against the Servant of Madness. Despite the boost her received, Berserker still had the edge in close-range combat.

"What do you think Gray-san? Do you think Lancer can win this?"

"To be honest, I do not know. All we can do is put our trust in him."

Gray merely replied. She wanted to believe so, as it until her teacher, Rider of Red, and Lancer of Red arrived, Aya's Lancer was the only chance they had to stay alive right now. If not for the fact that their opponent was Berserker, she might have tried to support him herself. While she wasn't confident in taking on a Servant even with help on her side, she'd at least be able to distract them if need be.

...!

Twirling his spear, Lancer shot forward ready to strike. The Black Knight simply parried it, swinging the stone pillar in his hands as a makeshift spear. As always, despite his large build Berserker was incredibly fast and agile. Lancer knew that he needed to step up his game.

"RAAAAGH!"

"Dodge this!"

...!

Aiming low, the blue-haired warrior set up a feint hoping for Berserker to take. Luckily for him, the latter did and left him open for attack.

...!

With one hard swing, the pillar Berserker wielded broke apart and left the latter without a weapon. Seeing another chance, he quickly acted.

"You die now!"

"Grrgh!"

...!

"Wha-!?"

Before he knew it, the Black Knight caught his spear in between his elbow and knee. With one hand holding onto it tightly as a black aura suddenly began covering the weapon.

"Bastard, trying to take my weapon are you...!?"

Leaping, Lancer delivered a kick to Berserker's head resulting in the maddened warrior to release his grip on Gae Bolg. The black aura disappearing slowly as he got back into stance. Taking advantage of the former's dazed state from his kick, he repeatedly struck his foe as many times as possible.

As expected however, his strikes were at best just making minor dents on the Black Knight's armor. He wondered as to who could have made such high quality armor. Either way it didn't really matter. He just needed to hit harder!

...!

A crack could be heard, appearing on his chest piece if he was right. The black aura the Servant of Madness had made it somewhat difficult to tell.

...!

Several more started to appear. Yes, he was making progress alright, he just needed to wait for his energy to restore itself some more before he could use Gae Bolg to finish it. As much as he wanted to have some more fun with the maddened warrior, Lancer knew that he had to finish it here and now.

"By the power of my Command Spell..."

"Huh, that voice is...!?"

...!

Lancer's assault stopped in its tracks. A sword, dark as night and covered in a pair of chains, appeared out of nowhere and parried his thrusts into a deadlock. Strange lettering could be seen inscribed upon the blade itself, one that the blue-haired warrior recognized from somewhere.

"Angelica-san!?"

Aya and Gray looked towards the distance to see said blonde-haired woman walking down the street towards them. Her hand raised to reveal the Command Spells on her forearm glowing bright red.

"Berserker, hold nothing back and eliminate Lancer!"

"RRRAAAAAAAAAAAGGGH!"

...!

With a mighty roar, the dark aura that surrounded Berserker vanished and revealed himself in his full glory. Dark armor, finely crafted from appearance alone, shone beneath the strange lights emitted by the Mirror World as he roared.

Taking a closer look at the sword, Gray froze up in realization.

"...!? But that sword is...!"

The girl muttered in shock. She had only ever read descriptions of its appearance from books her family kept, but the strange letters engraved upon the blade were enough for her to recognize it. Though blackened and this being the first time she laid eyes on it, there was no mistaking the weapon in Berserker's hand.

That sword... it was Arondight!

The Black Knight then charged, vanishing from Lancer's sight much to his shock.

"I can't see him...!?"

...!

Reacting on instinct, his body moved to intercept the incoming strike aimed at his head. He turned to his gaze to see that Berserker had managed to get behind him. How the hell did he even manage to do that!?

...!

He disappeared once more, and once more did he strike this time from a different angle. And again did he repeat these movements. It was a rather basic pattern, one that Lancer could have easily countered, but Berserker was making that difficult with his new found speed and strength. Even if he was boosted by the Command Spell, this strength was rather absurd to say the least!

"Gagh!"

He coughed slightly. Damn it all, even with Archer gone his poisoned remained. Though he could feel it slowly disappearing, it still affected his fight capability even with the boost he received from Ayaka.

"Oh no, Lancer's being pushed back...!"

Aya stated in worry, wanting to find some way to help Lancer. Should she use another Command Spell?

Her thoughts were interrupted when she felt a hand being placed upon her shoulder, turning her attention towards the white-haired girl beside her staring at the blonde.

"Stay here and keep safe."

Gray muttered as she left their hiding spot and began walking towards Angelica. The latter kept note of this but decided to keep her attention towards the battle between Lancer and Berserker.

"Give it up, you know that you cannot beat me."

"I will try, otherwise I'd shame my ancestor in this battle." Gray simply replied, her scythe appearing in her hands once more.

Sighing at this, Angelica merely took out her weapons as well. She knew that the girl would try to fight against her, but she had hoped that she wouldn't as well. The blonde didn't particularly care for battle in general, just seeing it as a means to an end at best and a waste of time at worst.

"Very well then, I'll deal with you first before I deal with the Tohsaka girl."

"I will not let that happen!"

...!


...!

As Mordred closed the distance between the two of them yet again and ready to strike at the black-haired archer, a resounding boom was heard by the two Servants as they looked into the distance. Both quickly leaped out of the way as a blast of air went by them, destroying numerous trees and carving a long path along the ground.

"There you are!"

Above them, the two looked up to see a familiar looking girl with reddish pink hair floating in the air thanks to the dragon wings on her back.

"Tch! Watch it would you!? I was nearly caught up in that attack!" Mordred yelled.

Said girl was none other than Berserker of Black, in one hand was her spear and the other her Master. She then floated down beside the blonde, dropping Caules to the ground much to the young man's chagrin, and directed an apologetic look towards the red knight while smiling and sticking her tongue out.

"Ahaha, my bad~" She stated. "I was aiming at the stripper woman behind you is all~"

"What!?"

Turning around, Mordred quickly saw the person Berserker was referring to.

"Ugh... that was too close."

Kneeling on the ground trying to pick herself up was Assassin, the skull mask wearing girl cautiously picking up her daggers as she readied herself. At this, Arash went over to his ally, not taking his aim of either Saber or Berserker.

"You alright Assassin? I didn't realize you were there until you appeared."

"I'm fine." The Hassan of Serenity replied. "Compared to having fought against Saber, Berserker of Black is someone I can handle."

"That's rude, I'm standing right here!" Elizabeth huffed in annoyance as she crossed her arms.

"Hey now, don't let them get to you." Caules said.

"Regardless, I felt that it was a bit troubling to just leave you to deal with Saber. So I decided to aid you which led me here."

"You couldn't act when I had Saber pinned to that rock?"

"Not with her armor on, no."

While all of this went on, Mordred wondered to herself just when on earth did Assassin arrive. Dammit, she was so invested in her fight with Archer, so sure that she could defeat him by herself, that she didn't even ponder to think that Assassin might have waiting in the shadows for a chance to strike. Such a careless mistake!

You think too highly of yourself...

...!

The Red Knight froze up, Ruler's words from earlier now at the forefront of her mind.

"...mn it..."

"Huh?"

Arash looked on in curiosity as he heard the blonde mumble to herself as her eyes were hidden beneath her bangs.

"...not true...!"

"Saber...?"

Caules questioned as she continued to mumble, feeling somewhat nervous and so too did Berserker from the looks of it. Both Master and Servant wondered to themselves what the blonde was going on about.

However, they needn't wait long for an answer...

"DAMN IT ALL IT'S NOT TRUE!"

...!

The others quickly braced themselves as an incredible surge of energy erupted from the Knight of Treachery, red lightning beginning to spew out from her sword as she slowly raised it and held it close.

"I WILL NOT ALLOW THAT WOMAN TO BE RIGHT, SHE CANNOT BE RIGHT!" She exclaimed much to their confusion. "I'LL KILL YOU BOTH RIGHT HERE AND NOW! I'LL PROVE HER WRONG, THAT I CAN AND WILL SURPASS MY FATHER!"

"What's gotten into her!?"

Caules questioned as he struggled to stand as Saber's sudden rage shook the earth itself. From the looks of it, she was about to use her Noble Phantasm!

"Berserker, take us up!"

"R-Right!"

Taking her Master into her arms, Elizabeth flew up got clear of her ally's range. Mordred merely smirked at this, seeing as how she couldn't sense the presence of anyone else, all that meant was that she had no reason to hold back anymore now that her allies were clear as well.

"Damn it, if that's the case...!"

Arash began, knowing what was about to happen. He turned towards Assassin.

"Excuse me!"

"Wha...!"

Picking her up with one arm, Arash leaped back a fair distance away from their foe. After settling her down, he then aimed his bow high as magical energy began to gather within it. Right now, he had no choice but utilize that!

If Saber of Red was anything like her father, then the black-haired hero had a good idea of what her Noble Phantasm was going to do. Regardless of that, he didn't know what would happen if he were to unleash his Noble Phantasm against it and what it would do to their current surroundings.

'Still...'

"Assassin!" He called out. "Get as far away from here as you can!"

"W-What!?"

The Hassan of Serenity said, still somewhat dazed by Archer's sudden previous action... Wait, it wasn't the time to think like that!

"Saber's about to unleash her Noble Phantasm." Arash stated as he smiled. "Better that only one of us survives this fight wouldn't you agree?"

Pausing for a moment, Assassin pondered her comrade's words. As much as she disliked the idea, part of her knew that Archer had a point. Between the two of them, he was the only one who could possibly stand against Saber of Red's power.

"I'll leave it to you then. Good luck."

She stated softly. With that, Assassin de-materialized into spirit form.

"Hah! As though running away would do her any good. After I'm done with you, I'll personally put Assassin to death myself!"

While saying that, the Knight of Treachery got into form raising Clarent above her shoulders with a manic grin on her face.

Arash merely grinned at this himself. Though it will end in his death, he was curious to see how the daughter of the Knight King he had both fought against and alongside with would fare against his next attack. Even if his Master wouldn't approve, a part of him told the black-haired archer to go through with it regardless.

Still, another part of him felt a little disappointed in disappearing like this so soon like this. Either way...

"CLARENT..."

"No regrets I suppose..."

Arash muttered with a smile, raising his bow and aiming the arrow directly at the Knight of Treachery. Golden traces of light emanating from the tip of his arrow, glowing as bright as the sun that shone above them.

"...BLOOD ARTHUR!"

Blood red lightning released itself from Clarent's blade, bursting towards the black-haired archer as he spoke one word.

"STELLA!"

With that, the arrow was released...

"Hmph, what a farce...!"

A voice called out, one that Mordred knew all too well.

...!


"Ahahaha~!"

"Hah!"

...!

Sword clashing against spear, Siegfried and Brynhild continued their battle against one another as Fiore and Kairi watched in amazement. Both could barely keep up with the two Servants movements as they fought, appearing little more than blurs in their eyes along with the occasional sparks flying between their weapons.

Their surroundings slowly began to deteriorate thanks to the ongoing battle. Trees were cut down or uprooted, the earth cracking beneath the Dragon-Slayer and Valkyrie as they exuded incredible amounts of force in their strikes. The two Masters had to take cover a little distance away just to be safe.

"Yes, that's it. Come at me more~!"

"...!"

...!

Despite being boosted by three Command Spells, Siegfried was in disbelief at the fact that Lancer had been keeping up with him. It was insane really, and he couldn't decide if it was good or bad. One part of him was enjoyed to fighting against such a strong foe, the other terrified that said strong foe also happened to be... unstable to say the least.

And once more, he would need to settle it soon. In spite of his increased strength, his opponent was again slowly becoming stronger as they fought.

"My apologies Master, but I have a request to make..."

"H-Huh?" Fiore was surprised when she suddenly heard Saber calling out to her. "What is it Saber?"

"I ask that you and Sir Kairi to distance yourselves further from this place. I fear that in order to end this fight, I will have to unleash my Noble Phantasm against Lancer. She's growing stronger by the minute. My apologies but even with your Command Spells I will be no match for her if this fight were to prolong itself."

"I see... very well then."

...!

"Ah!"

Brynhild came to a grinding halt as she stopped her assault, leaping away a fair distance out of caution when she saw Sigurd-No, Saber of Black emanating a vast sum of mana. His sword, the blade known as Balmung, glowed a light blue as energy swirled around it, the Dragon-Slayer lifting it over his shoulders as he stared calmly at the Valkyrie.

"Mr. Shishigou!"

"Huh? What the-!?"

Before Kairi knew it, Fiore activated her Mystic Code and hefted him up with one of her mechanical limbs. Looking towards Siegfried, she called out to him.

"Saber, please stay safe!"

"Understood."

With that, the young head of the Yggdmillennia Clan got away from the area together with necromancer, the latter yelling out obscenities about his somewhat humiliating position to the girl who simply ignored them.

Brynhild merely smiled at this. So he really was planning on utilizing his Noble Phantasm, and he likely asked his Master and her compatriot to leave the area on the chance they were consumed by the fallout. She couldn't help but shiver slightly as a result.

'Such consideration for others... just like Sigurd.'

"Ehehehe~!"

Giggling to herself in delight, the daughter of Odin leaped into the sky above. Floating in the air as she looked down upon Saber of Black.

"Love. Hate. Love. Hate. Love. Love. Love, Love, Love..."

Able to hear this from where he stood, Siegfried silently wondered to himself as to what Lancer was doing when the answer came to him...

...!

"What!?"

"Oh you gotta be kidding me!" Kairi cried out as he saw what was happening.

As Lancer repeated her mantra over and over again, the spear in her hands quickly grew in size. Before anyone knew it, it was about the size of a small hill. Compared to it, the teal-haired Valkyrie might as well would have been an ant.

Twirling the gigantic weapon around, Lancer pointed it directly at Siegfried. Just how in the world was she even able to wield such a thing so easily!?

...!

Blue light began emanating from the spear's tip. At this, Siegfried readied himself as he felt what was coming.

"BRYNHILD ROMANTIA!"

The Valkyrie cried out, diving towards the Dragon-Slayer at frightening speeds cloaked in blue energy.

"BALMUNG!"

The Phantasmal Greatsword roared, energy bursting forth in a wide arc.

"Hah! Such a spectacle this fight has been, but that's enough of that!"

"Ah!"

Brynhild cried out in surprise, snapping out of her madness when she heard an all too familiar voice.

...!


"Why don't you two just die!?"

Beatrice demanded from her two foes who stood apart from her catching their breaths.

As much as she hated the idea of admitting it, dealing with both Rider and his Master together was more than she could handle. Damn it, who the hell decided to turn the homunculus pretty boy into a semi-dragon!? She'd punch them if she could!

...!

"W-What the...!?"

Something suddenly began happening to her. A weird glow had surrounded her body, a surge of energy erupting from her now and again.

"What's happening?" Astolfo stated eyes full of curiosity.

"We're about to find out." Sieg simply stated.

With that, a bright flash emanated from Beatrice. Soon enough it died down, to reveal a rather unexpected sight.

"Huh? What the hell...!?"

As soon as the red-head opened her eyes, she saw a card floating right in front of her. It was none other than the Berserker-Card that she had used to fight against both Rider of Black and his Master just now, just why was it floating there...? A time limit? Damn it!

"Oh, oh my..."

The paladin's voice caught her attention. Gritting her teeth, she readied herself.

"What's wrong!? Come and get me if you want! Even without the card, there's no way I'm letting you guys rip that thing out!" She exclaimed, pointing to card placed on the pillar behind her. "If you want it, you gotta go through me!"

...

...

...

Silence reigned after her little speech, it was a rather disturbing one at that. Why the hell were they just standing there?

...!

A chill ran up her spine. Why was it so cold all of a sudden...? Huh!?

Wait a minute...!

Touching herself without looking, she realized one thing...

"W-W-W-WHAT THE HEEEEEEELLLL...!?"

"Please go to sleep punch~!"

...!

"Gack!"

Closing the distance and with one strong hit, Astolfo knocked Beatrice out cold. Laying her softly on the ground, he took off his cape and laid it over the maiden who was now uncovered for some strange reason...

"That's no good, even if you are trying to seduce us, a girl shouldn't be running around naked you know~?"

"No, I don't think she was planning on that at all..."

Sieg quipped, having no real thoughts about the matter aside from how bizarre it was. Then again, he was a homunculus after all. It wasn't really his place to judge human fashion choices, at least not until he experienced the concept himself. That's what Rider had said to him anyway...

"Now then..."

Walking over towards the stone pillar, he placed a hand over the Class-Card and ripped it off.


"Gah...!"

Semiramis flinched back as she felt her spell being broken rather forcefully. An angry glare formed on her face as she realized what that meant.

'Damn it all, so Rider of Black and that homunculus master of his succeeded...?!'


"With this, whatever magecraft they were doing should now be dispelled."

"Hmm..."

Astolfo mumbled as he walked over and inspected the card in his Master's hand, a smile growing on his face as a thought quickly came to mind.

"Say, do you think that this thing could summon another Servant to our side?"

"I don't think that would be possible." Sieg simply replied as he pocketed the card into his shirt. "From what I remember, Miss Tohsaka said that cards with blank images such as this do not contain a Heroic Spirit and as such cannot be used."

"Eeeh, that's too bad~" The young paladin stuck his tongue out in displeasure. "Here I thought we could get more allies with-"

He paused, feeling a chill up his spine as a familiar sensation went up it.

...!

"Wha-!?"

Before the two even knew it, bright light covered their vision.

"Curse it all, we were too late!"

"It doesn't matter, grab the girl and let's leave!"

Two voices called out, one male and one female. Footsteps and glass being broken could be heard, Sieg and Astolfo stood together with their backs turned to each other.

However, by the time the light died out and their vision returned to them, the girl that they had just fought had disappeared along with the card that she was just using. Both were now the only ones left inside the warehouse.

"Was it Assassin of Black...?" Sieg asked, trying to regain his bearings.

"I-I think so..."

The pinkette muttered as he looked around, having recognized the voice as belonging to one of the personas that he had personally met before, Zayd he called himself if his memory served right. It likely was him and another one of his personas, as he sensed the presence of two Servants just as the bright light blinded them both.

...!

There, another sensation lit up inside both Master and Servant's minds. It wasn't the presence of a Servant this time that alerted the two. Rather, it was something different.

"Let's go," Sieg stated. "Whatever spell they were performing over the area is now starting to break down."

"Alright then, let's go find the others and go home~!"

With that, the duo finally left the area themselves.


...!

"Huh...!?"

Gray and Angelica paused in their battle when suddenly the sound of glass breaking could be heard all around the area.

"W-What is this...!?" Aya exclaimed in shock as she saw the sky tearing itself apart.

"Tch, so we're out of time!"

Angelica clicked her tongue before turning her attention towards Lancer and Berserker, both of whom had stopped as well to observe the phenomena around them.

"Berserker! Finish him now!"

With that, the Black Knight's attention returned to the blue-haired warrior in front of him as he raised his sword high. The latter reacting quickly to intercept the former's resumed assault. A fierce trade of blows ensuing, with neither letting up.

Still, even if with Berserker having become stronger than him...

"AS IF...!"

...!

"I'D DIE...!"

...!

"TO THE LIKES OF YOU...!"

...!

Successfully parrying each strike the Black Knight threw at him, he managed to get his foe to flinch and reveal an opening. Mustering whatever strength he had left, the Hound of Chulainn held his spear at the ready and cried out.

'There...!'

"GAE BOLG!"

...!

"Gargh!"

Gray and Aya watched on in shock. Just now, what in the world happened...!?

Eyeing the several red tipped spears bursting out of his chest cavity and partially buried in the Black Knight's armor, the blue-haired warrior had no words to describe what he was feeling right now. Instead, he just turned his gaze behind to look a the cause.

There, floating behind him was diamond shaped portal of light. Turning his attention forward again, he noticed that his spear had entered another similar shaped portal as well. What the hell was going on...?

"That was too close..."

Angelica muttered, her hand raised having poured everything she could to ensure her spell succeeded. It was a miracle that even worked at all...!

"Berserker, finish him."

With that, Berserker raised his sword...

...!

"LANCER!"


"Ah...!"

Jeanne gasped aloud as she stared into space, placing a hand over her chest as she felt something wrong.

"What's wrong? Is everything alright?"

Arthur asked worriedly. The two currently sat inside the living room of the Sajyou Estate. Both were discussing matters regarding the Rogue Faction and Manaka when suddenly the blonde-haired girl began looking something had struck her deep.

"N-No, I'm fine." She quickly stated with a wave of her hand. "It's just that, something's happened..."

"What do you mean?" The young man inquired.

"It's Rider of Red, his presence... I can't feel it anymore!"

"...!?"


"Now then, I suppose that marks the beginning of the end."

Sitting alone in the middle of a garden was a single person dressed in white. Walls of great size and scope surrounded the garden as well, stretching high well above the ground. To the point that one could not make out if the complex even had a ceiling built.

Light shone down through the windows, something that the figure was grateful for since it gave off a pleasant feeling whenever she basked in it. Yes, such simple pleasures were the best at times. How she missed being able to do such things.

Gazing towards one of said windows, the hood falling off to reveal the face of a rather beautiful woman.

"I wonder, who will succeed? Will it be the Savior who seeks salvation?"

He who had been executed at a young age, a hero who died for a cause that damned his existence from the beginning...

"The Goddess who seeks the Hero's favor?"

She who had been betrayed by her beloved, a maiden who died trying to fulfill her prince's dearest wish...

"Or will it be the group of Champions that defy both?"

Those who succumbed to or defied fate, heroes of old once enemies to each other now gathered under one banner for a common cause...

"In all my life, this is perhaps a first that I've come to witness such a turn of events. I can't even tell who'll succeed..."

Standing up, the woman began walking through the garden. Having decided to take a stroll to pass the time, as not much else could be done when she in her current state. With that said, the most peculiar thing happened as she did so...

"Then again, I suppose I should be rooting for him anyway." She shrugged.

With each step taken by the woman, the ground beneath them suddenly bloomed with flowers as well. Stopping, she knelt down to pick one up and smell it.

"Hehe~"

Yes, though artificially grown, they always had that fragrance that came from blossoms that bloomed during spring. It was an ability that she was rather proud of to have.

And that boy, the one she had taken on as a pupil so long ago had praised it as well. Calling it a wonderful skill for a magus to be able to create life. Such youthful naivete to call such a simple trick as such, but it was one that she loved to care for and tease all those years ago...

"Arthur, don't disappoint me now~"

The time was coming soon, and the question was whether or not her dear pupil and the saint he paired up with would be able to weather the coming storm. They along with the allies that they've gathered amongst the Red and Black Factions.

'Well, I suppose I could give them a hand...'


FATE/MAGNUS BELLUM

ACT II:

SHIFTING STAGES

END


Author's Note:

Well now, finally managed to put this up. As stated before, I wasn't able to update in the past few months due to RL business. Sorry about XP At any rate, another reason is that though I said before it would probably be longer, I decided to end the current act at twelve chapters as well. (Minus the extra chapter of course)

In this chapter, originally it was going to split between two chapters but I decided to mash into one in order to wrap things up for the current battle, with the fallout being dealt with next time. As a result, it'll likely come off as rushed work and need some rewrites, if it comes to that anyway and trust me I'll do them, but for now I apologize if they're not up to par since I just wanted to get this chapter out already thanks to how long it has been. Again, if there are some problems that need to be edited, mostly spelling problems and the like, please let me know. But if it's about the fight scenes no comment XD Sorry but again not my forte even though I try my hardest XP

Also, note that most events in this chapter more or less happen near the exact same time of one another. Just to avoid in confusion in those who couldn't keep up is all :)

Regarding the Cu's magic bit, just roll with it. I didn't really know how to implement his rune thing for a while since I'm still trying figure its place in the story. And the bit with Beatrice at the end, chalk it up to me wanting to write something funny to release some of the tension in writing this chapter XD And as to why she's capable enough to stand against an Astolfo/Sieg combo, it's because Astolfo isn't that powerful of a Servant to begin with and Sieg is still settling in on his Dragon Powers. On the other hand, the HS Install Beatrice used is that of a powerful hero in comparison, strong enough that she'd be able to take on both at the same time though not without effort.

As for Angelica's portals and Gae Bolg; I doubt that would actually work in the actual canon but I worked it in that when he thrusted forward, Angelica redirected the attack by opening up a portal in front of him where the attack entered and opened up the exit just behind him. So he more or less stabbed himself with Gae Bolg as the spear tried to stab Lancelot. If the thrown version was used however, her little stunt would most definitely fail. Might be poor reasoning, but that's what I came up with XP

Lastly, regarding the recent revelations about Fou in FGO. I'm not going to say anything to avoid spoiling those who don't know yet, but I will say that thanks to it, his importance in FMB has changed as a result. It may or may not affect the plot depending on whether or not I go through with my ideas, but I did I think I've found a way to somewhat justify a number of things related to the matter. As to what they are, no comment for now since I'm going to be spending some time on break in order to figure out how to write the next arc in the future.

Also, I'll just come out and say it: Merlin finally makes another appearance in the end. After much debating with myself, I decided to go with the Prototype-version (In where he's a female) instead of the FSN one and as such edited earlier chapters to be in-line with this by trying to make it gender-neutral as possible. Reason for this is because the opportunities for comedy are just too great to ignore XD Expect something glorious in the future folks XD


For the guest reviewers who made statements/questions last time:

Pluto iii: I'm using Fate/Extra as one of the basis for KoW's general plot. So Nero is going to be included for sure, along with the other two members of the Extra Trinity. Yes, that basically means that I'm bringing in EMIYA and bringing back Tamamo as well.

Cain: If you want you could put it there yourself or ask someone else. I mostly try to restrict myself these days unless it's just for basic edits for the trope page. And honestly, no comment regarding the Kiritsugu matter since I am not even focusing on KoW anytime soon. And questions like that should answer themselves. As for Alice, she'll likely appear in KoW since I'm using Aoko in her teenage years as well.

Kratos: I'm not really answering that since honestly I see no point. And again, not focusing on KoW anytime soon. So unless it's about character appearances no comment.

No one: Not really. I wanted Richard because he's a King Arthur fanboy, looks like his idol in terms of the Proto-version, has a combination of Excalibur and Knight of Honor for a an NP and can control the output, and the fact that he's basically Arthur and Iskandar rolled into one package of fun :D Also, Lucius Tiberius only came about in canon only after I had already chosen Richard, and honestly see no more point in bringing in anymore Arthurian characters than whom I already have. Might as well call FMB the story of "King Arthur and his Friends" at that point. Which may or may not have happened already in the actual narrative XD


That's it for now. Again, happy new year and please review :D