A Hedgehog Of Chaldea
Orleans Interludes (Part 4)
Interlude XVI
Hunter of the Forest
"Oh? Robin's buying things from that shop. Did you tell him to do that?" Mash asks
"I never told him anything... either way, he's allowed to do things without asking me," Sonic replied
"Then he's just walking around on his own? Just as Sonic said, he's free to do whatever they want, but..."
"Those beat-up old blades? If you're just gonna give them to the blacksmith I'll take all you've got. Oh, and a dozen lengths of rope. Throw in some rags, too." Robin Hood said
"Yeah, sure thing. I'm glad you're taking this junk off my hands, but what will you use them for?"
"Who knows? But junk's got its uses. You can put it together into something good. Hey, this is a nice blanket. Didn't think I'd see something like this, I'll take it." Robin Hood said
"That's an expensive blanket. You sleep in your cape, what will you do with it?"
"My new boss is a wimp who's not used to camping." Robin Hood said
"...Looks like he's buying a lot. Should we talk to him, Master? *Both walk up to Robin Hood* Hello Robin, are you buying something?" Mash asks
"Oh, Master and Lady Mash. Fancy seeing you here." Robin Hood greeting Sonic and Mash
"I'm kind of surprised to see you here Robin... It's rare for a Servant to go shopping." Mash said
"Maybe so. Compared to the other guys, I'm a little plan, right? I feel more at home in places like this. But again, this is perfect timing. I'm going hunting, want to tag along?" Robin Hood asks
"Hunting? Is that code for you going gambling?"
"What kind of guy do you think I am? Not gambling, plain old hunting." Robin Hood said
"Sure, will tag along with you," Sonic said
*Forest*
"...Quietly. Quietly. I saw some weird animal tracks around here. I set some traps over the past few days... Got it! Bingo! They fell for it. This area up ahead is a blind alley. It'll be easy to trap them" Robin Hood said
"Nice one, Robin but... What did you trap?" Sonic asks
"Haha, you'll have to find out." Robin Hood replied
"Robin, it's pulling! The line is pulling!"
"All right, let's do this! This is some rare prey. Don't let it escape, Master!" Robin Hood said
"Sonic looks and notices an arm in the trap Robin Hood made in the last few days. He continues to stare as Robin Hood aims his bow at the enemy. A moment of silence soon fills the air as Robin Hood concentrates, aiming his bow at the enemy. Moments later
"That was amazing! Master, Robin is a master hunter!" Mash said
"I totally agree!" Sonic replied
"Hahaha, thanks, Master. Now then, Let's move on to the next trap then." Robin Hood said
"Roger!"
*Later*
"Quietly, quietly... Ohm this one too. Although this is one I hoped they wouldn't trigger." Robin Hood said
"You hoped they wouldn't trigger?" Mash asks
"Yeah, unlike the other places, there are signs of people staying here. They're pros too, so they've hidden well, but... See? 3, 2, 1, 0."
"GYAAAAHHH! A trap! A hidden pit! Scouts, what were you doing? There are spear tips smeared with cow dung on the bottom!"
"I hear terrible screaming! Robin, what was that?" Mash asks
"Looks like we got uninvited guest over," Sonic said
"These guys were getting ready to attack the town. See? This is important, too. If we can get rid of them here, they can't hurt the town and the enemy won't know our location. Just like they said, scouts are the most basic and critical part of the war. A bonus is important, but you need basic recon work too." Robin Hood said
"Y-Yeah. Robin is right! This is important too! No, it's more important!" Mash said
"...Hey, Robin... Do you still have the extra rope you bought from that man back at the town?" Sonic asks
"I sure do. Any reason for using it?"
"I have some business to do with these guys," Sonic replied
"That's what I like to hear from you, Master. *Hands Sonic the rope.*"
"*Takes the rope from Robin Hood* Alright, give me a second," Sonic said
Moments later, Sonic dashes away from Robin Hood and Mash. A few moments later, the two heard yells from the soldiers as Sonic was tying them the soldiers with the rope Robin Hood gave him.
"What the?! Who are you!"
"He's one fast animal!"
"Don't let him get away!"
"He's too fast!"
"Seems like Master has it under all control." Robin Hood said
"One could dream of running as fast as Senpai." Mash commented
Moments later, Sonic returns to the two and cleans his gloves off with a smirk on his face.
"That will teach them a lesson," Sonic said
*Later*
"That was an interesting hunting experience... We ended up going around the whole forest. But it paid off, big time. The skills Robin did with those traps were superior. He's been protecting the town without them ever knowing, right?" Mash said
"It's always nice meeting other heroes protecting the innocent," Sonic replied
"Aww, don't say that. I'm not a hero even after death. I just protect it because it's a nice place. I'm not any different from the soldiers who attack the town. Just different tastes."
"...Um, what does that mean?"
"You know, I didn't want to go around crushing kids' dreams. But I may as well say it. You guys talk about saving humanity, but that stuff's too big for me to really understand. I'm a Servant? It got to be some kind of mistake. I was just a murderer with a rebel streak. I didn't save anything. That's just how things ended up. I fought alone, and the village was safe for a year to two. Sure, I fought the lord's army, but that doesn't mean I wanted to save anyone. Do you get it? I'm just a thug and a coward. It's dangerous to let your guard down because of my good looks. I'm a coward who'll run if he has to." Robin Hood said
"I may know nothing about you, but let me tell you this, Robin. Your past is your past... there's no other way around it, just because you caused things that caused people harm doesn't mean you can change all that right now and become a better person. And I'll help you with all that, trust me! It doesn't matter how long it takes, as long as you help more and damage less. That's all I want from you." Sonic replied
"...Quite the big talk from you, Master. I appreciate your wanting to change someone like me for the better. And I'll gladly accept that, thanks." Robin Hood replied
"Anytime, bud," Sonic said
"Anyway, we're done hunting, so I'll be going. Might take a nap in the woods. Call me if there's a fight. It's my job, so I'll do whatever crazy things I have to." Robin Hood said before walking away
"What a man... He said he protected the town because it was a nice place to be, but he sleeps in the forest. I think he... I think he's keeping his distance from what's truly important to him." Mash said
"Some people are like that, Mash. You can't change one's choices." Sonic replied
"What does that mean... If you know the answer, please tell me! Senpai, Senpaaaaai!"
Interlude XVII
Symphony of the Heroic Spirits
"Get out if you can't pay! I'm keeping this until you've got the money you owe!"
"Oww... What a violent man... The drink was cheap... And there were no pork cutlets either... Oh, but losing my travel bag was a bad blow. I don't want them to sell to the pawnshop." Amadeus said
"...Master, that's Amadeus lying on the ground in front of us. He appears to have been bounced out of the tavern like a pinball." Mash said
"Hey, Amadeus... What happened?" Sonic asks
Oh, dear. You've caught me at an embarrassing moment. Sonic, Mash, are you two getting lunch as well? I would advise against that tavern. The meat and fish are excellent, but the drink is awful. and the customer service is abysmal! What kind of establishment throws you out just because you can't pay?" Amadeus furious
"Amadeus, did you go in there without any money?"
"Of course I did. I'm a genius composer. God loves me and says I get an unlimited tab for everything. But the owner here knows nothing about music! he doesn't even have a single piano in his tavern!" Amadeus said
"Taverns in this era don't have pianos, obviously. From his perspective, you're the crazy one." Romani said
"I played him a song on my flute. It wasn't a full concert, but it should more than suffice."
"T-That sounds wonderful. I think a song from Amadeus would be worth a full day's meals, not just one." Mash said
"I see. And what kind of song did you play for him, Amadeus?" Romani asks
"Well, it's untitled, but if I have it a name, perhaps, "A fugue to inspire sudden bowel movements." As you can tell from my Noble Phantasm, it worked perfectly. It was hilarious seeing the line to the bathroom."
"Senpai, he's bad news! He's the kind of Servant you can't let wander around on his own!" Mash said
"Hahaha! You're making me blush! Still, excellent timing. I've had my revenge on the owner, but he took my bag of instruments. I need to make money quickly. Will you come with me for a while? I just need a simple bodyguard."
*Outside Town*
"We're all the way outside town. What are we doing here, Amadeus?" Mash asks
Oh, there are bandits in this area that attack merchant wagons. If I get rid of them, I'll be paid in gold. Look, here they come. I'm counting on you, Master. Teach them a lesson!" Amadeus said
"Sure thing," Sonic replied
Moments later, Sonic dashes towards the bandits as he curls himself into a ball, spins dashes towards the bandits and spins around the bandits very fast. Moments later, a strong dust devil forms around the bandits as they were all
"What's going on? That blue rodent is as fast as a Cheetah! We can't beat him ourselves! Bring it over here!"
"Looks like he compared you to a Cheetah, Master," Mash said
"Ironically, I myself have raced against a Cheetah once... The outcome of that was pretty obvious..." Sonic replied
"Anyone would think that seeing the way you run so fast. Then add in the shape of your body." Amadeus said
"What is that supposed to mean?" Sonic asks
"Oh, don't worry Master. I'm just teasing you as always, but we're in the middle of combat. Sonic, the bandits haven't given up yet. The big one's coming..."
"Okay, take off the leash! Go, Patricia! There's your target! Go ahead and eat that rodent!"
"GRAAAAWAR"
"A-A stray wyvern! They must have a decent breeder with them!"
"Yes, I'm surprised too! And disgusted. Talk about a waste of talent! If they've got the talent to train a wyvern why are those idiots wasting their lives on this?" Amadeus said
"*Sigh* Give me a second you two," Sonic said
"Be careful, Senpai!" Mash said
Electricity begins to emit around Sonic's body as he dashes towards the Bandits and the wyvern. The Bandit and wyvern all charge at Sonic but weren't expecting what's to come. As the bandits and wyvern got closer to Sonic, Sonic runs around the bandits and wyvern at high speed, as the electricity emitting from his body begins to power up. The bandits couldn't keep track of Sonic as they try to attack Sonic but their swords contacted Sonic's electric body and electrocuted the Bandits instead. Moments later, Sonic jumps as his body generates a massive electromagnetic pulse that electrocutes all the bandits and wyvern. Mash quickly blocks the shockwave with her shield from electrocuting her and Amadeus.
*Later*
"Well, wasn't that a nice haul? We got paid several times what I expected, Sonic, Mash!"
"Yes. Thanks to Senpai electric blast, we capture 23 people." Mash said
"I didn't see what happened since the Leyline malfunctioned for a few minutes here. They were tough enough to have a wyvern with them. each one's worth a pretty penny, and altogether they're worth even more." Romani said
"Now you can live the high life, Roman," Sonic replied
"That's right. I can pay my tab at that tavern, then at the others... And then I guess that's all of it." Amadeus said
"You owe money at other taverns too?!"
"Yes. Most wouldn't let me in. Otherwise, why would I go to a new place?" Amadeus replied
"I don't know... Amadeus's skills and appearance are so impressive, but he's got too many personality problems. Next time we summon him, please summon him at an age where he's more dignified." Mash said
"Don't be too hard on him, Mash. He's fine the way he is." Sonic replied
"Senpai..."
"A Servant is summoned at the height of their powers, Mash. It was at the time of their lives when that Heroic Spirit was strongest. Otherwise, there'd be no point. As long as he's a Servant, Amadeus will carry this form. Well, his age might change if he's in a different class..." Romani said
"I'm never anything but a Caster. So you won't see me old, or young. And I'll tell you something else, mash. There are only two kinds of artists Servants." Amadeus said
"two kinds? Um... What do you mean?"
"I mean their age when they're summoned. Whether they appear as children or adults. I can promise you that artist Servants will all either be children or young adults. Nothing else. Servants are summoned at the height of their powers, right? That means when they were genius. the ones who appear as children grew up to be decent, dignified adults. That's why they manifest as "children." when they were called geniuses. Child prodigies who didn't care about the problems they caused." Amadeus said
"Oh, I see. An artist's talent comes from their instincts. And they're summoned when those instincts were at their strongest?" Romani said
"In other words, they're summoned as children, when they were pure geniuses. And the young adults?" Mash said
"Those ones are weirdos and scums, who would never change until the day they die!"
"..."
"...It sounds so convincing when he says it... And what an awful Servant he is..." Romani said
"Oh, it's dinner time! My tab;'s paid off, so it's off to my favourite pub. Oh, but I do need to thank you. Here, Sonic. A present from me. This is also my thanks for everything you do for me. Buh-bye, then! You guys have a nice dinner too!" Amadeus said before walking away
"He's gone... Some Servants have no interest in the era they're summoned to. And some Servants, like Amadeus, act as they belong there... There really are in different types of Heroic Spirits..." Mash said
"As long as their having fun, I have no problem with that," Sonic replied
Interlude XVIII
Knight of Owner
"Ahh... This breeze certainly feels nice, doesn't it Senpai?" Mash asks
"Feels much better than the breeze back in my world. Come to think of it." Sonic replied
"I was wondering why you brought a Berserker to such a peaceful picnic," Romani said
"..."
"Doctor, Lancelot may be a Berserker, but I think if you talk to him he'll understand. He's a reasonable Berserker, so I think it's all right." Mash said
"A reasonable Berserker... He couldn't be a Berserker then, could he..." Romani replied
"I had some feeling that he could understand us," Sonic said
"He does seem to understand us," Romani replied
"Foou?"
"Arrrrrr!"
"Gah! I knew it! He doesn't understand us!" Romani said
"No, that's not it! Senpai! It's an enemy attack! Get ready to fig... Huh? Where's my shield?" Mash asks
"Oh... Sorry, I put our lunch on it." Sonic replied
"Oh! It still has our lunches on it! Senpai, watch out!
"*Gets hit by the enemy* Arrrrr!"
"Lancelot!"
"He used the chopsticks... to stop the attack... That's amazing..."
"So that's the skill of the Knight of Owner. Bravo, Lancelot!" Mash surprise
"But those chopsticks won't hold out for long!" Romani said
"Can he use something else as a weapon? I mean... there are other deadly weapons to use than chopsticks..." Sonic asks
"Foou! (We can use this!)" Fou said
"Huh? What did you find, Fou? That's a log! Well done, Fou!" Romani said
"Take it, Lancelot!"
"Arrrrrr!"
"Whoa! Just touching that log he instantly transformed it into a Noble Phantasm-level weapon!" Romani shock
Moments later, Lancelot rushes towards the skeleton enemies and swings the log across, hitting one of the Skeletons as they break into small pieces and fly everywhere before. vanishing away. The second Skeleton swings his sword at Sonic but Sonic quickly rushes over and performs a backward roundhouse kick behind the Skeleton and disrupts it from hitting Lancelot. Lancelot quickly turns and swings the log at Skeleton and his own Master. Sonic quickly crouches as the log flys above him and hits the Skeleton, shattering it into smaller pieces before vanishing away. The third Skeleton charges at both Sonic and Lancelot but both Lancelot quickly swing the log at the Skeleton while Sonic performs an overhead ax kick as the Skeleton completely shatters and vanishes away soon after.
"They're still coming! Senpai, stand your ground!" Mash shouted
"*Quickly grabs another log* Here you, pal," Sonic said
"Arrrrrr!"
Sonic rushes towards the army of Skeletons and circles around them, forming a blue tornado that picks up the Skeletons and spins them around the air. As the Skeletons were being spun by the tornado, using his strength, Lancelot throws the log into the tornado as the log smashes into the Skeletons, shattering them into pieces and pieces flying everywhere. One by one, the Skeletons in the tornado were shattered by the log and their weapons were blown everywhere out of the tornado. Moments later, Sonic stops running as the tornado explodes and sends the rest of the skeletons flying away from the three of them.
"Woohoo! That was tight!" Sonic shouted
"This is the last wave of enemies! Lancelot, you log..."
"Arrrr!"
"He seems upset. Master, it seems as if he's had it with logs, and wants a real weapon!" Mash said
"Wait! I have an idea!" Sonic said
Sonic rushes towards the forest and enters it as a few moments later, a massive tornado forms inside the forest and picks up the trees from the ground as the tornado heads towards Mash and Lancelot. Lancelot and Mash quickly got out of the way as the tornado picks up the golems and Chimera and sucks them all inside the tornado. Inside the tornado, the enemies were getting hit by the large trees
"We finally took them down! ...At the cost of beautiful trees..." Mash said
"We had no other choice, Mash," Sonic replied
"Next time, bring your sword with you, Sonic. The only time you didn't bring it was when an ambush happen like now. But... Knight of Owner... I see. But, can logs and chopsticks be counted as weapons?" Romani asks
"I've heard of a great swordsman in ancient Japan who used chopsticks to defeat an insect-like monster, so I don't think it's unusual," Mash said
"I've never heard of this great swordsman. But if they actually defeated a monster only using chopsticks, then that's next level combat." Sonic commented
"Even then, they wouldn't work as weapons without Lancelot's unparallel abilities," Mash replied
"Arrrr!"
"What? Another enemy attack? ...Or not. Is he communicating with us?" Romani asks
"I'm sure that's it. Don't you agree Senpai?" Mash asks
Interlude XIX
For Someone's Glory
"Lancelot's... face?" Mash said
"See, he's always that helmet, right? Don't you want to see what's under there?" Romani asks
"I rather not... If he prefers to keep his helmet on. Then I don't mind." Sonic replied
"Foou... (I respect that blue...)" Fou said
"Come on, Sonic... You'll have to admit, Lancelot is the ideal image of a knight! He's the most popular Heroic Spirit among the ladies in this world." Romani said
"Interesting... That will keep them away from me for as long as he's here." Sonic commented
"What do you mean by that?" Romani asks
"It's a long story... Anyway, how can we get his helmet off?" Mash said
"Plan A: A slip of the hand during battle! All right, let's give it a try!"
*France*
"Now them I'm going to start the battle simulation program. Is everybody ready?" Romani said
"..."
"I feel really bad about tricking him..." Mash thought
"...Got it, Doctor. I'm ready any time." Mash replied
"The enemy's a simulated Servant used for training, so it's not dangerous. Don't worry." Romani said
"I'm going to set the parameters at the highest, though."
"Let's begin, Master."
"*Sigh* I can't believe I'm doing this," Sonic said
"Master! Shhh!
"ARRRR!
Moments later, Lancelot rushes towards the Shadow Servant as he begins to attack it violently around its body and deal massive damage to it. Mash and Sonic both watch as they were looking for an opening to grab Lancelot's helmet and take it off of him. While fighting the shadow Servant, Lancelot grabs the Shadow Servant's neck and quickly throws them to the air as he jumps right at them and slams down his weapon on them, throwing them back down to the ground. Lancelot then returns to the ground and stabs his weapon at the Shadow Servant's stomach before kicking it away, jumping at it and continuing to swing his weapon at them. Sonic and Mash couldn't find an opening to catch Lancelot as Lancelot finishes off the Shadow Servant by swinging his weapon at them one last time before vanishing away and roaring soon after.
"Wow... That fight wasn't nothing to him" Sonic said
"ARRRRR!"
"Th-That was excellent..." Mash said
"It's no good. He doesn't leave any openings during battle or after the battle!" Mash thought
"He truly is the Knight of the Lake!)" Romani thought
"Is he really under Madness Enhancement?" Romani asks
"That must be his famous "infinite Military Training." Even under MAdness Enhancement, his combat skills will never deteriorate." Mash said
"Umm.. you guys..." Sonic said
"We're not through yet! Don't give up, Mash! The next Shadow Servant will be incredible!"
"Hahaha, I'm gonna rig the settings. Even the Knight of the Lake won't be able to..."
"...Oops."
"Um... Doctor, what is this?"
"Sorry, I messed up. I might've summoned an extremely powerful mock Servant. Oopsie Daisy?"
"Why am I not surprised by this?" Sonic said
"Foou! (It isn't surprising at all blue!)" Fou said
"Oh, just FYI. This Shadow Servant might cost you your lives..." Romani said
"Doctor?!"
"D-Do your best."
"I'll make you pay for this later, got it? Anyway, let's take care of this!" Mash said
"ARRRRR!"
"It's just a mock Servant. It can't be that powerful." Sonic said
Moments later, Sonic rushes towards the Shadow Servant and was about to attack them until suddenly the Shadow Servant stops him and begins choking Sonic on his throat.
"SENPAI!" Mash shouted
"*Breathing Heavily* R-R-Romani... y-y-you'll pay for this..." Sonic said
"I'm sorry, Sonic. I didn't mean to!" Romani said
Moments later, portals begin to open up behind the Shadow Servant as swords appear out of the portal. Lancelot notices his Master being attacked as he roars in rage and lunges toward the Shadow Servant. Lancelot grabs the Shadow Servant's face as he throws them to the ground and begins hitting them with his weapon multiple times. Sonic jumps back as he coughs and breathes heavily. Lancelot grabs the Shadow Servant's throat as he raises them up in the air and begins choking them very hard. As he was choking the Shadow Servant, he quickly throws them away as he lunges towards them and begins swinging his weapon at them several times around their body violently. They were so violent, the Shadow Servant's bones begin to break and couldn't do anything else as Lancelot raises his weapon in the air and slams it down on the Shadow Servants' head, dropping them to the ground hard where they lay there motionless before vanishing away.
"Holy crap..." Romani shock
"Lancelot..." Mash said
"..."
"He made that fight look like a walk in the park... The Knight of the Lake... What a guy..." Romani said
"Foou... (You okay blue...)" Fou asks
"Y-Yea, I'm fine. Tell me this... why are we doing this again?" Sonic asks
"It's all because the Doctor wanted to see Lancelot's face, that's why we... oops"
"Mash!"
"..."
"I-I'm sorry..."
"*Sigh* Hey, Lancelot. I gotta ask you something. Would you mind taking off your helmet and showing Mash and Roman your face?" Sonic asks
"!"
"...What? You're going to show us?" Mash shock
"Fou?! (No way?!)" Fou said
"Whaaaaaat? All my effort was for nothing... But, finally, we can see the Knight of the Lake's true face!"
"! (Gulp)"
Lancelot takes off his helmet...
"Woooooah! ...What the?"
"I don't know what to say..." Mash said
"For some reason, even with his helmet off, it's a blur and I can't make out his features at all," Romani said
"..."
"So this is your face, huh?" Sonic said
"I get it. I think this is the effect of "For Someone's Glory." Romani said
"The skill that conceals his status and appearance, isn't it? But still, even this close with his helmet off, I still can't see a thing..." Mash said
"All this has made me... so tired."
"So... you guys knew how Lancelot would've looked like but still went with this whole ordeal. Almost killing me in the process..." Sonic asks
"..."
"..."
"..."
"*Sigh* Nevermind, forget what I said. Let's just go back and eat something." Sonic said
"Y-Yeah, let's..."
"Talk about a waste of time as well, Sonic. I think that's the right phrase for today." Romani said
"Don't talk like that, Doctor! Lancelot, please don't be offended." Mash said
"..."
"Will you be able to show your true face in the future, Lancelot?" Sonic asks
"Yes. That's most certainly is correct. I have a feeling it will happen." Mash replied
"Fou!"
Interlude XX
Dragon Slayer
"Ah Master, Mash Kyrielight, I need a word with you... Is now a good time?" Siegfried asks
"Of course it is! What do you have to say?" Sonic asks
"...I see. Well, where to start... You know how I am the "Dragon Slayer?" Siegfried said
"Of course, you defeated the evil dragon Fafnir alongside Senpai, didn't you?" Mash replied
"Yes. Afterward, we bathed in its blood and gained immortality from it."
"Immortality? I didn't feel anything different when we defeated that Dragon." Sonic said
"I see... that's quite interesting... Although, there is one part that was untouched by its blood. My back. Well, that I'm aware of, at least." Siegfried said
"Any reason for leaving it untouched?" Sonic asks
"Let's just say I had my reasons. I'm terrible at explaining this. You see because I bathed in Fafnir's blood... I can resonate with "that dragon." You could say it's like the relationship between Masters and Servants. However, the link is extremely weak. It only allows us to confirm each other's survival at best. During the battle in France, I was certain that Fafnir was destroyed, but... It seems it's revived." Siegfried said
"Wha... Fafnir has?!"
"Master, I beg of you. Return to France, and this time slay the dragon. Won't you take me with you?"
"Sure, let's go actually take down that dragon!" Sonic accepting
Moments later, the three begin teleporting to France...
*France*
"All right, I'll start monitoring... Multiple signatures of lifeforms were confirmed. It goes without saying, they're not human." Romani said
"Please look at this, Master! There are wyverns among them!" Mash said
"It seems so..." Sonic replied
"Did they survive that battle than recover? Or were they reborn? In any case, they must be destroyed. Aim for the wyverns first, Master!" Siegfried shouted
"Sounds good to me!"
Sonic grabs his sword from the scabbard as he charges it up and somersaults towards the wyverns. The wyverns notice Sonic heading right towards them but couldn't get out of the way quickly and Sonic slices the wyverns head off one by one very fast. Siegfried and Mash watch as the heads of each wyvern fall to the ground while spewing blood on the ground before vanishing away. The wyverns desperately try to attack Sonic but was quicker than them and eventually finish all of them off by themselves. Moments later, Sonic returns to Siegfried and Mash as all the wyverns vanish away behind him.
"I'm really starting to get tired with these wyverns..." Sonic said
"...It looks like you have taken care of them for now. Let's look for Fafnir." Siegfried said
*Later*
"Another peaceful area destroyed..." Sonic commented
"A ruined fortress. It looks like the wyverns attacked it. But Doctor, I thought Fafnir was summoned by that Jeanne. It's possible she, too is..." Mash said
"...no, I doubt that," Siegfried replied
"Siegfried's correct. She needed the Grail to exist as a Servant, there's no sign of it in France."
"I'm sure. ...I fear this is my fault." Siegfried said
"...Yours?"
"By defeating Fafnir, I left behind a legend and became a Heroic Spirit. But, my very existence itself is also proof that "Fafnir exists." Not to mention it's already been summoned once here in France. So long as Fafnir isn't killed completely, it will keep reviving." Siegfried said
"But I thought its Master, Jeanne no longer exists..." Mash said
"Dragons generate magical energy simply by breathing."
"I see. Standing atop of all Phantasmals, they never have to worry about magical energy. Living. Just by doing that, it's possible to generate magical energy!" Romani shock
"Fou!"
"Master, it's the wyverns! They've formed a pack and started to attack!" Mash said
"It's not easy being an unofficial "Dragon Slayer", right Master? Let's go!" Siegfried said
"Meh... I fought larger." Sonic replied
Moments later, Sonic and Siegfried begin running towards the wyverns. The wyverns notice Siegfried and Sonic running towards them as three wyverns fly towards them as well. Sonic quickly jumps right at the first wyvern and swings his sword at it several times, leaving scratch marks around its body and dripping blood as well. The wyvern roars in pain as it tries to counter with a claw attack but Siegfried quickly blocks the attack and swings his sword at the wyvern, slicing its head off as it falls in front of them before vanishing away. The second wyvern lunges towards the two and swings its claws at the two of them but Mash jumps in front of the two and blocks the oncoming attack from the wyvern and knocks it away from the two. Mash then grabs Sonic's arms and throws him into the air where he curls himself into a ball and somersaults right towards the wyvern and slicing its stomach open as he goes through and comes out from its back like a fountain of blood erupts from the wyvern, roaring in pain before falling to the ground and vanishing soon after. The third wyvern was about to attack the three until Sonic throws his sword at the wyvern and stabs them in the stomach as it stops flying and roars in pain. Siegfried jumps right at the wyvern and slashes its head off its body as falls to the ground and vanishes soon after. Moments later, several more wyverns appear and all charge at the three. The three look at each other and nodded as the three all charged as well towards the wyverns as well to take them down. eventually, the three take down all the wyverns as they all vanish away soon after.
"Hm. These wyverns were just born." Siegfried said
"Born?"
"When Dragons become as large as Fafnir, they can bear offspring on their own. Just like these. Most of them are dead, but even if a few survive... they'll eventually be surrounded by strong fantasies Then new Evil Dragons will be born. It's because of that fear, we humans desperately fought the dragons." Siegfried explaining
"A brave warrior... I respect you." Sonic replied
"I appreciate that, Master. Unfortunately, I was afraid. I only killed the dragon because I was asked to. I suppose I'm the type who... just can't refuse a request. To all warriors, the title Dragon Slayer was an eternal honour. I won't deny that I was motivated by fame. But, it was so scary I regretted it immediately." Siegfried said
"You still ended up victorious, right?" Mash asks
"Yes, but as I said before, even I don't know how I won. When I came to, there was the bloody dragon and my blood-stained self. Its lair was dyed red. My skin which should have been badly burned was hardly hurt... It was strange, but I knew I had won." Siegfried said
"This may sound weird but... Was it fun?" Sonic asks
"...Yes, it was fun. The moment I realized it, I gave an uncharacteristic shout. The treasure I gained eventually cast me into misfortune, but... I have no regrets or hesitations. I know it's not the most enlightened way to put it, but I accepted the circumstances of my life. I grant someone's wish. I accept their joy, their sadness, and their rage. And that was enough to give my life fulfillment. Except... ! It seems our idle chatter is at an end. I've located it... This means it's located me, as well."
Moments later, a loud roar fills the air.
"I've picked up a massive signature incoming... No doubt about it, it's Fafnir!"
"Now is the time to settle this! Let's go!"
"Let's finish this!" Sonic said
Siegfried and Sonic both charge towards Fafnir at high speed. Fafnir slams his arm to the ground, causing a massive shockwave that headed towards the two. Sonic quickly grabs Siegfried's arm as they both jump right over the shockwave and land back down soon after as the shockwave dies down before hitting Mash. Sonic jumps right at Fafnir while charging up his sword then homes up to Fafnir at incredible speeds and delivers a hasted combo of lightning-fast and powerful slashes with his sword. While Fafnir was being attacked by Sonic. Siegfried stood still as he points his sword in the air and begins to unleash his noble phantasm.
"The Evil dragon shall fall, and the world will reach its sunset."
At the end of the combo, the force from the attack throws Fafnir some distance away and Sonic jumps away from Fafnir. Once landing back down, using electrically emitting from his body, Sonic gets into a combat stance and begins to charge his sword up as well.
"I will bring you down! Balmung!"
"Let's go!"
Moments later, Siegfried fires a massive beam while Sonic performs a series of rapid slashes towards Fafnir. The beam and the blue shockwaves hit Fafnir and massively damages Fafnir. The shockwaves create massive scratch marks around Fafnir while the beam begins to turn Fafnir into ashes. Moments later, the beam gets bigger and swallows up Fafnir as it completely defeats Fafnir as moments later, Fafnit vanishes away in existence from Sonic's and Seigfried's attacks.
"...Farewell Fafnir. May you be destroyed, this time."
"This is Mash. Fafnir's destruction confirmed." Mash said
"Yes, I've confirmed its destruction on my side as well. I'm scanning, but there's no sign at all. I think you both managed to finish him off this time." Romani said
"Now it seems Balmung too has regained its original power," Siegfried said
"Can you continue with your story?" Sonic asks
"...There's nothing more to tell. We'll talk more next time we get the chance. I'm grateful, let's return Master." Siegfried replied
Interlude (Orleans Finale)
In Search of the Rhine Gold
"Master, Mash Kyrielight. Forgive me, but I have a request." Seigfried said
"Is it Fafnir again?" Mash asks
"We took Fafnir down last time!" Sonic said
"That dragon was completely destroyed. Please rest assured. But when the dragon revived, so did my lost Noble Phantasm. We must return to France and secure it..." Siegfried said
Moments later, the three begin teleporting back to France.
*France*
"We've arrived. It's just as Siegfried said. I can sense a powerful presence." Mash said
"I can confirm that, as well. Hang on while I find the shortest route." Romani said
"What's the Noble Phantasm you speak of?" Sonic asks
"Have you never heard of the Rheingold?" Siegfried said
"The Rheingold... The treasure you obtained. I've heard it's a mountain of treasures that couldn't be exhausted even by all the people of the era." Romani said
"That's an exaggeration. But it's enough to allow me, my children and even my grandchildren to grow old in luxury and still have some leftovers. It's likely an aftereffect of Fafnir's resurrection. The Rheingold has been summoned, as well. There's evil surrounding the gold. If we don't secure it, there will be trouble." Seigfried said
"Trouble how?"
"For example... Suppose a man finds it. With one glance, the treasure would captivate him completely. The captivated man would naturally spend the treasure. Once he did, he would become known as its owner. Eventually, everything around him will be drawn into a bloody struggle. The battle will drag on and spread like fire, without end. In the end, the nation will be consumed by atrocities and executions, treachery and perfidy. That's what Rheingold is. I regret having ever summoned it..." Siegfried explaining
"Understood. We need to prevent that from happening. Let's hurry to the location!" Mash said
"I've got the route. Hurry!"
*Inside The Forest*
"...The gold has begun to attract evil creatures. Let's breakthrough these guys, Master!"
"Got it!"
Sonic curls himself into a ball revs up and spins dashes towards the werewolves. Sonic hits the first werewolf as he bounces off it and hits the second one next to it. The third werewolf attempts to attack Sonic with its weapon but Siegfried quickly rushes in and slashes the werewolf in half as its body falls to the ground before vanishing. The two other werewolves attempt to attack Sonic but Sonic runs around the two and hits them multiple times in all angles, not letting the two werewolves hit Sonic. As Sonic's attacks distracted the two werewolves, Siegfried rushes in and swings his sword at one of the werewolves, cutting its head off and falling to the ground before vanishing. Moments later, Sonic stops running around the werewolves as he jumps and overhead axe kicks the werewolf's head, knocking it to the ground and Siegfried stabbing it soon after before vanishing away as well. The two notice more werewolves coming towards them as the begin fighting the rest of them, and eventually defeating them.
*Later*
"Hm..."
"That treasure... belongs to me!"
"Quiet! That's mine!"
"We're too late. The mind corruption has already begun. *Turns around to face Sonic* We can disable them for now. Master, let's go-"
Siegfried quickly realizes that Sonic wasn't behind him and was gone.
"Where's Master?" Siegfried asks
"He has the situation all taken care of," Mash replied
"*Looks in front and notices all the soldiers were all the ground, knocked out and not moving an inch* What happen?"
"*Appears in front of Siegfried in an instance* Don't worry, I got it all taken care of!" Sonic said
"You defeated them when they at least expected it. Good work, Master." Siegfried said
"Thanks, pal!" Sonic replied
"Will they be all right?" Mash asks
"Most certainly. Master wouldn't be the one to kill a butterfly if it comes to innocent lives. Anyway, once the Rheingold disappears from the nation, any related memories will also be erased and return to normal. Lett's hurry before we have casualties." Siegfried said
*Inside A Cave*
"We're almost at our destination. However, I am picking up multiple signatures around it." Romani said
"It's spacious. Master, prepare for combat! The signature the Doctor mentioned is approaching!"
"We're done once we defeat these. What?"
"It's been a while, my friend."
"You're!?"
"No need to be surprised. You're not the only one who obtained the Rheingold. I, Hagen, killed you to acquire it."
"Who the heck is this guy?" Sonic asks
"Hagen... I believe he was the one who killed Siegfried from behind... It seems he was summoned using the Rheingold as the catalyst." Mash said
"Exactly. Though, I only did it because this guy asked me. Right, my friend?" Hagen said
"If you think of me as a friend, stand aside Hagen," Siegfried replied
"I refuse. This treasure is mine. I killed you to obtain it. I won' give it to a wench like Kriemhild. I won't give it to a coward like you who chose death! This good! This treasure! Everything is mine!"
While the two were talking, Sonic's sword begins to glow blue behind as he was getting to attack Hagan at any second. Mash notices the sword glowing but doesn't say anything for now.
"No matter what I say, it will only be an excuse. It's true that I am a coward. I should have stood firm, and found a way to breakthrough. That tragedy was not once I schemed... Even then, there's no doubt that I am responsible. However. I will retrieve the Rheingold. Not for my own greed, but because it is just."
"Haha. Says the man who wielded his sword not knowing what is just!" Hagan said
"You're correct. When I was alive, I wielded my sword in ignorance. However, lately, I have finally been able to see my own righteousness. I will have my wish granted... Hagen!" Siegfried shouted
"Senpai, NOW!" Mash shouted
Moments later, Sonic dashes forward, teleports around the cave and begins slashing each monster each time he appears. Hagen watches as this unknown creature teleports around the cave and takes down each monster like no tomorrow.
"What the hell? Who is this person!?"
"That... that is, Sonic... Sonic The Hedgehog." Siegfried replied
Moments later, all the monsters vanish away as Sonic appears in front of Hagen in flash and slashes him several times in all angles. Hagen couldn't block Sonic's attack as being injured by the Blue Blur. Moments later, Sonic swings his sword one last time and throws Hagen to the wall of the cave as he hits it and falls to the ground. Siegfried soon after grabs Hagen by the throat and throws him to the air where he jumps at him and swings his sword several times at him before throwing him back to the ground. Hagen quickly lands on the ground on both feet but Sonic quickly shoots an arrow electrically downwards at Hagen as it explodes on impact once making contact with Hagen. Hagen gets electrocuted by the arrow and couldn't move as Siegfried rushes in and swings his sword at him several times before stabbing him in the stomach. Hagen looks down and notices the sword going through his stomach as he tries to raise his sword to attack Siegfried but Sonic rushes in
"Impossible! These two defeated me without me landing a single hit on them! Hmph, fine... I didn't want this gold in the first place." Hagen said
"What, you were just venting?" Siegfried said
"What else did you think it was? I was happy when I could drink and joke with you. I'm the only one that could have assaulted you from behind in that situation. I can see you wanted it to be by my blade, as you trusted me. However... did you not imagine that you would hurt my heart doing so? Did you not think it would infuriate your wife Kriemhild?" Hagen asks
"...You're right. Seems I knew little about emotions. No, more than anything else... since I was asked to, I believe nothing else could have been done. I showed an excessive lack of interest in everything." Siegfried replied
"You neglected your life, your hope, and most of all your desires."
"You may have been fine with that, but you should've noticed those around you couldn't hear it," Hagen said
"...Yeah."
"Then, let me ask you. Do you have any wish as you are now?" Hagen asks
"I do. I had decided on this from before. In this second life... I'll protect justice, and be proud of it. I care not about the opinions of others. I merely wish that "I myself want to be as such." My dream is... to be a hero of justice." Siegfried replied
"Hmph, such a childish dream, much like you. But that is fine. I will entrust the Rheingold to you. I'm sure you'll be able to deal with it properly..." Hagen said before vanishing
"Master, this is what I couldn't tell you earlier. I neglected myself too much and ended up causing the tragedy. I will not repeat my mistake again. I want to become a hero of justice and prevent it. Is it absurd... to wish for that?" Siegfried asks
"Not at all, Siegfried," Sonic said
"...Thank you, Master. I give you my best regards for the future." Siegfried said
To Be Continue...
"Next Time: Septem." Sonic As The Narrator