A Hedgehog Of Chaldea
Septem Interludes
Author's Note: As Stated Before, Some Servants That Appear Here Have Not Appeared In The Main Story Yet. They Will Appear Later On.
Interlude I
True Value of the Divine Bow
Somewhere inside a forest, Sonic and Mash watch as Arjuna fires a powerful arrow at a tree. Mash was surprised while Sonic just watched with no expression at all with his arms folded.
"Wow..." Mash surprise
"...Well. This is about 10% of its original power. Plus with a little extra with Master's energy." Arjuna said
"T-Ten percent?" Mash replied
"I will admit it was surprising," Sonic sa
"I accept you as my Master, Sonic. But that doesn't mean I pledge my loyalty to you. The most important thing in this world is trust. By fighting together, I was able to know you better. But, that is not enough. Therefore, I would like to test you, Master. It's simple. Fight against me. Since you allowed me to be a free spirit, I will do what I must do to defeat you. That's what I want to see. Is that all right? I'm looking forward to it. I know this is sudden, but enemies are approaching. As always, enemies at this level are easy prey for us. I seek a graceful, great fight against you, Master. That is all." Arjuna asks
"So... you wanna fight while enemies try to get in our way? I'll happily accept that!" Sonic replied
"Be careful you two," Mash said
"Don't worry, we will," Sonic replied
Arjuna and Sonic soon both get in their fighting stances as enemies begin surrounding them. Moments later, Sonic rushes towards Arjuna, curling into a ball and homing attacking right at him. Arjuna aims his bow at Sonic and fires multiple arrows at him. Sonic dodges each arrow as they all flew past him and towards the werewolf behind him and hit it instead, with one arrow going through the brain of the werewolf before falling to the ground and vanishing away. Sonic uncurls himself and performs an overhead axe kick at Arjuna but dodges by jumping over the attack. In the air, Arjuna aims his bow at Sonic and fires more arrows at him. Sonic quickly kicks each arrow away as they flew toward three werewolves and all hit them right in the heart. The werewolves all roared before falling to the ground and vanishing soon after. Sonic rushes at Arjuna forward at high speed and attempts to strike Arjuna but Arjuna blocks the attack from Sonic and knocks him away before aiming his bow at him once again and firing several arrows at Sonic. Sonic smiles as he begins running around Arjuna at high speed as the arrows follow him from behind.
"Hmm, well done. Cutting off all thought and lending my trust to you is not a bad feeling. However, don't get overconfident about beating those weaklings. The next enemies will be somewhat formidable. You must be able to defeat formidable opponents with ease. Otherwise, you're unfit to be a Master." Arjuna said
"Don't worry Arjuna, this is the second time in my life I've ever become a Master to someone. I know how it feels to be one." Sonic replied
"Is that so? Well then, *Quickly Aims His Bow At Sonic And Fires Several Arrows At Sonic.*"
Sonic notices the arrows heading toward him and crouches as the arrows flew past him and hit the group of wyverns instead. The wyverns all roared as they fall to the ground behind Sonic, vanishing soon after. Sonic looks back and notices a huge dragon staring down at him and roars right at him.
"*Blowing Motion* You really need to brush your teeth more often," Sonic said
"Senpai!" Mash shouted
The dragon raises its arm to slam down on Sonic but Sonic quickly dodges it as he counters back by performing a super-strong blow at its face using his speed. The punch knocks the dragon's head up and Arjuna quickly fires several more arrows at it. The arrows all hit the dragon, stabbing around its neck and head. The dragon roars in pain and Sonic, taking advantage of his speed unleashes a barrage of punches at the dragon before punching it and pushing it away from him. Sonic then curls into a ball and spins dashes at the dragon at full speed and going through it and coming out from behind. Making a huge hole in the dragon's neck as it begins to spew out blood. The dragon roars in pain while Arjuna aims his bow at the dragon and fires multiple arrows at it. All stabbing the dragon around its neck before falling down to the ground and vanishing soon after.
"Chaos Energy really works wonders for you," Sonic said
"Splendid! I acknowledge that there is no problem with Master's ability to team up. Now, this is the last test. Considering the type of enemies we may face in the future... I had a Servant prepared for this. No longer will you be fighting a mindless beast, but rather a true Hero recognized by the World itself. We must win. No matter how strong the enemy is, I must obtain a glorious victory... No, I guess WE must obtain a glorious victory. Come, let's fight. I shall be a silent arrow! You just need to fire me toward the ones you recognize as your enemy. That's the ideal relationship between a Servant and a Master. Now, let's go!" Arjuna said
"Man, Arjuna you really are something. But these Servants around us are nothing to me." Sonic replied
Sonic quickly creates a super powerful vortex of wind that sucks in all five Servants Arjuna placed. The vortex also begins ripping trees off the ground as they were also sucked into the vortex. Inside the vortex, the Servants were hit by the falling debris and couldn't do anything to stop it. Moments later, the vortex explodes as the five Servants were flown straight into the air. Arjuna quickly aims his bow at the Servants and begins firing arrows at them. Each Servant was punctured by the arrows multiple times, stabbing them through different parts of their bodies. Moments later, the Servants all hit the ground hard as they soon vanish away.
"Looks like you didn't need my assistance. I'll pass it since you are a fighter yourself. As expected from you, your talents as a Master are genuine. I trust you fully and therefore pledge my allegiance to you. The name of my bow is Agni Gandiva. This divine bow granted by the God of Flame can shoot down anything. I will show you its true strength in our upcoming battles. *Notices A Bigger Dragon Behind Sonic* & ...Oh? –Heh heh, this bow is ideal for you. Why don't I show you the true brilliance of its flame now! By the hellfire of Agni, God of Flame, be incinerated to ashes! ...No, this is not enough. O Shiva, God of Destruction... Rain down divine punishment upon my foes!"
"WAIT! DON'T DO IT! NOT ONLY YOU'RE GOING TO ATTACK THE DRAGON BUT ME AS WELL!" Sonic shouted
Moments later, Arjuna unleashes his Noble Phantasm at the Dragon, a huge explosion erupts right at the Dragon soon after, easily defeating it and also destroying the forest around the three in the process.
"...How was that, Master? No, you don't have to say anything. With this, my power has been proven. My weapon and Noble Phantasm are the most powerful of their kind. You can proudly declare that I'm the best Servant." Arjuna said
"U-Um..."
"Wow..."
"Yes?"
"The forest has been levelled," Mash said
"...Uh...uh... I think I was a little too enthusiastic... I am sorry." Arjuna said
"*Covered In Smoke* T-There's now a side effect using Chaos Energy..." Sonic said before falling down to the ground
Interlude II
My Memories
"Hmm— Based on my observation, I couldn't detect anything. Um, maybe I should expand the range? Hmmm, you are in 1st century Gaul, within the second singularity that's being corrected. Are you sure it's around here, the great hero of destruction, Attila—I mean, Altera?" Romani said
"Don't call me Attila. Yes, I'm sure it's around here. Someone is calling me here. I'm certain that I felt it. It's a destructive...impulse. What's worse, it's extraordinary. Even if it destroys everything in sight, it still won't calm down... That's what it is." Altera replied
"An impulse, huh? I don't know how to understand a phenomenon that can't be observed with numbers." Romani said
"She probably meant she sensed something similar to that of magical energy," Mash said
"Magical energy, hmm? I see, I won't deny that, but... It's more like a forced command, one more powerful than Command Spells. That's what I've sensed.
"Does it have to do with Chaos Energy?" Sonic asks
"Senpai, Chaos Energy can only be absorbed from you as of now. No one else." Mash replied
"Fou, Fou Fooou!"
"It seems like it is already approaching us. A collection of destructive impulses." Altera said
"It's a Servant! If we're just picking that up now, that means...it's hiding in spirit form until our arrival! Senpai!
"...I am troubled. Oh, no... See, I knew it. I am troubled because of it... I can smell that person... No wait, it's a smell similar to that person... Why do I sense it? Why do I think like this? ...That woman... She must be one of the women... Who tried to get close to my...Sigurd..." Brynhild said
"Oh?"
"Who is this person?" Sonic said
"You're Brynhild...right? A woman who tried to get close to your Sigurd? Who are you talking about?" Mash asks
"..."
"She's looking at me. So that destructive impulse is directed to me. But I don't remember anyone named Sigurd. Hm..." Altera said
"Ah! No, Altera, try to remember!
"I have no idea who she is..." Sonic commented
How do I explain this... It's not Sigurd per se, but someone who shares the same origin and legend as to him... You've already met him, Altera. That's right, this has happened before..." Mash said
*Flashback*
Huh? Wait, I'm sorry. I'm getting confused so let me get this straight. In other words... Siegfried and Altera married "the same woman?" Mash said
"Yes, that's right. After I died, my wife, Kriemhild remarried Etzel– In other words, the great king of the Huns. I heard that the great king also lost his wife." Siegfried said
"Kriemhild... My wife, huh? Wife... Wife..." Altera said
"I'll be honest with you... I didn't know you had a wife..." Sonic admitting
"I'm familiar with her name, but it feels unrealistic to have a wife. I know nothing except war and destruction. I never directed my attention to anything else. So...it's possible that woman was there for me." Altera replied
"Oh I see, one of Altera's retainers probably played it smart and had them married for diplomatic reasons," Romani said
"Like business-like?" Sonic said
."..I do have some thoughts on that, but this is not the place to talk about it. I heard Kriemhild used King Etzel for her revenge. What led her to seek revenge was my death. So, I'm in no position to accuse the king." Siegfried said
"Etzel..."
"Fou?"
"Etzel, huh..."
"What's the matter, Altera?" Mash asks
"Well, the name Etzel isn't bad," Altera replied
"I think that sounds nice if you ask me, Altera," Sonic said
"...It's not...what I meant. It's not... It's not that.
"(Seems like it is.)" Romani thought
"(Yes, it is.)" Mash thought
"(Indeed.)" Siegfried thought
"(Fou, Fou Fou )" Fou thought
"...It's not..."
*Present*
"...Do you remember now?" Mash asks
"Indeed, I do. But I suppose he is a different existence, or hero, then Sigurd. Siegfried and Sigurd. I hear both of them are heroes of the same origin..." Altera said
"Oh... Oh my...how can that be? That's exactly what I thought. Taking...a wife... There's no way it can be... Forgiven." Brynhild replied
"She is not fully coming to the full realization," Sonic said
"Y-Yes, Senpai! She's obviously gone into battle mode!" Mash replied
"What, a Servant battle!? Now?"
"...Fight me with everything you have," Brynhild said
"Hmm, she wishes to fight. Very well, I shall answer that wish. All I can do is wield the sword of destruction. Come. The sword of Mars shall crush you!" Altera shouted
Altera and Brynhild both charge at each other, ready to fight each other until Sonic comes between both of them and stops them from fighting.
"There must be a mistake. Altera is actually a guy... He just happened to be a girl." Sonic said
"Wait what?!" Brynhild shock
"Umm... Yea... Altera is a guy. He didn't try to get in touch with Sigurd..." Sonic said
"..."
"...Oh... What...was I...doing? Don't tell me... Was I about to fight Me? Against you?"
"Yes."
"I-I see, so that's what happened. I wonder why... It's odd. Sometimes I attack men, but usually not women." Brynhild said
"It sounds horrible, but yes, most of Brynhild's victims are men. Her Noble Phantasm feels like it's that way, too... E-Either way, I am happy we could clear up that misunderstanding!" Romani commented
"Y-Yes. It was just a matter of pressing the wrong button!" Mash replied
"Hmm..."
"Oh?"
"Fou, Fou...
"...Anyway, I was lucky to fight such a powerful individual. It helped adjust the aim for my Noble Phantasm." Altera said
"Fou, Fou. Kyao?" Fou said
"Sometimes... I miss my own world..." Sonic said
Interlude III
Grendel's Second Coming
"Anomaly during summons?
"Yes... The Doctor says that when you were summoned, there was a disturbance during this era in this spot. That might be the reason why you can't unlock your second Noble Phantasm." Mash said
"Something else was summoned at the same time... The answer's simple." Beowulf replied
"So–you think it's Grendel?"
"No doubt. I can't think of anything besides him that could influence the summoning process. It's true there are nameless fire dragons out there... But Grendel was the only monster with such fierce hate and glory in my life. He was an evil creature who played with people's lives. The kind of evil that revelled in the meaningless slaughter of people trapped in their dwellings. I can understand fights over territory, or animals just fighting for survival. But–Grendel had both reason and intellect and was simply evil. That's why his very existence... is far more of a threat to me than that of a fire dragon. Fire dragons are passive as long as you leave their treasure alone. But Grendel's a twisted monster who revels in evil. If he revived as a side-effect of my summoning– I gotta kill him." Beowulf replied
"...Then let's go. The last response was in the old castle up ahead. If you take a look at it, maybe you'll figure something out." Mash said
"Okay. Let's go, Master. There are some things that shouldn't exist in this world. Grendel is one of them." Beowulf said
"You got it, buddy," Sonic replied
*Later*
The three then make their way to the town where it was completely empty and quiet.
"And here we are," Sonic said
"It's–deserted. Not a soul to be seen." Mash said
"I can smell blood. It seems we missed our chance."
The three walk through the damaged ghost town where not a single soul is nearby. Just damaged buildings and such around them.
"Ugh..."
"This is not what I expected..." Sonic looking around
"Master, can you tell? Looks like every last human in this castle was slaughtered. ...Damn. This isn't good. The more human flesh he consumes, the more powerful and evil he gets. We have to crush him before he attains his perfect form." Beowulf said
"But, where is he..."
Moments later, the sound of blood-crushing sounds echoed around them.
"Something's close! Prepare for battle!" Beowulf shouted
"It's coming!" Mash shouted
"Let's do this!" Sonic said
Moments later, Chimera rushes towards the three with its claws ready to attack. Sonic quickly curls into a ball and homing attacks Chimera at its face, hitting it and knocking them pushing him away from the three. Beowulf lunges at Chimera and swings his two heavy swords at it, dealing massive damage to the Chimera as it roars in pain. While Beowulf continues to slash Chimera with his swords. Mash jumps above Chimera and kicks her shield down at Chimera's head and knocking it down to the ground. Mash then performs a backwards roundhouse kick at the Chimera's goat head and knocks it up before landing back down on the ground. Sonic
"Damn... We didn't take it down!
"W-Was that a chimera?" Mash asks
"Grendel is a protean creature. He can change his form depending on the situation. That's why I need Hrunting because it tracks enemies. Let's go after him. Follow me!" Beowulf said
*Later*
The three then make their way inside the palace that was still intact.
"So, here..." Beowulf said
"H-Help me..."
"Wait! Did anyone hear that?" Sonic said
"That..."
"Help me..."
"Wait, now!" Mash said
"Stop!" Beowulf shouted
"Wh-Why–!?"
"...Enough of this stupid farce, Grendel. Hrunting is eager to bite into you." Beowulf said
"..."
Moments later, the decoy begins to roar.
"What, a fake..." Mash said
"Something like that! Let's go, Master. It's not a human, so don't hold back!" Beowulf said
"Zombies, huh? Heh, allow me to take care of this myself, Beo!" Sonic replied
Sonic begins walking toward the zombies with a smirk on his face. The zombies roar at Sonic as they all begin charging at him at full sprint. Sonic then begins to rub his hands together super fast as they begin to emit electrically. Sonic continues to rub his hands together until they began glowing bright blue. The zombies were just about to reach him and eat him until Sonic puts his palms on the zombie's chest and electrocuted them with his hands. The zombie roars in pain as the electrically from the zombie makes its way to the other zombies behind it, electrocuting the others as well. Smoke began to come out of the zombies as their insides begin to melt into liquid. Moments later, Sonic removes his palms off the zombie's chest as it slowly falls to the ground. As well as the others before vanishing away.
"That's the first time I've ever done something like before," Sonic admitting
"Nice job, Master. But he ran away again. Listen up, young lady. Don't trust whoever it is your next meet in this castle. Also, don't be surprised by who you run into. He can read your mind like a book. When he appears again, he'll likely take the form of someone we know. Brace yourself, it's gonna be painful." Beowulf said
Minutes have passed as the three continue making their deeper inside the palace trying to find their target.
"Just a little more... Hey, come on out already!" Beowulf shouted
All of a sudden, the three notice Jeanne, Nero, and Drake staring at them without saying a word.
"I know these are fakes. They would've greeted me by now if they saw me." Sonic said
"Correct. What looks like armour and clothes is hardened skin. The weapons are extensions of claws and hair. Pretty nasty, right? That's why he's evil. But luckily it looks like we can kill him before he starts talking to us." Beowulf replied
"He talks?" Mash said
"Only based on the speech in the memories he extracts.
"...N-No. I'm just...not...used...to this body yet. I don't know...why I was...summoned. But...I'll do what...I have to." Grendel said through Drake's body
"What on earth..." Mash shock
"I'll kill you...in a cruel way. Every last one...in cold blood. That's how it is. That's how it must be. That's what makes me Grendel. Like how I feasted on the human souls back in that castle!" Grendel shouted
"Shut up. You probably just heard that from your mom. I'll make sure the two of you are nice and cozy together in hell. Master!" Beowulf shouted
"To the real Jeanne, Nero, and Drake... Please forgive me." Sonic said
Moments later, "Drake" aims her guns at Sonic and begins firing at him. Sonic smirks as he grabs each bullet flying towards him and quickly throws the bullets faster right back at Drake. Drake couldn't dodge it in time as the bullets hit her and went right through. One of the bullets manages to hit Drake's heart as she slowly falls back and hits the ground hard, laying motionless. Sonic lunges right at "Nero", takes her sword away from her and stabs her her at the heart as he kicks her to the ground soon after. "Jeanne" rushes toward Sonic and swings her spear at Sonic but backflips over the attack and kicks Jeanne towards Beowulf. Beowulf charges at "Jeanne" and slashes his swords at "Jeanne" several times before throwing her to the wall of the castle.
"D-Damn you!" Grendel shouted before
"Seeing Senpai take down our friends... it's something I don't expect him to do. But it's all over now, right? There's no response. Let's head back." Mash said
"...Master, don't you think something's off?" Beowulf asks
"N-No... not really," Sonic replied
"I see..."
"What do you mean?" Mash asks
"It's a vicious creature we're dealing with. Not the sort to accept death without a struggle. ...Something smells. Can we search a little longer?" Beowulf replied
"Okay... If you think it's a good idea, there's no problem." Mash said
*Several Minutes Later*
several minutes have passed since Sonic defeated the three imposters. The three searched around the castle for Grendel but there was no sign of him anywhere.
"He's nowhere to be found..." Mash said
"Fou! (Hey look, I found something!)" Fou said
"What is it, Fou?" Sonic asks
"...Below us?" Mash said
"Oh, damn, I didn't notice. This castle has a cellar. Let's check it out." Beowulf said
"Nice job, Fou!" Sonic said
"Fou!"
"I can't believe the cellar connects to a place like this..."
*Below The Castle*
The three soon make their way underneath the castle which was an underground cave.
"Well, this is anticlimatic. Just an average cave." Sonic commented
"I can't believe the cellar connects to a place like this..." Mash said
"So that thing faked his death and fled here. Which means..."
"*As A Dragon* Ugh... D-Damn you..." Grendel said
"We've got you cornered. Your mom's not here, buddy. I'll send you to hell where you belong! I, Beowulf, will show you no mercy!" Beowulf said
"I could say...the same... I've read the memory...of the one who killed you!" Grendel shouted
Beowulf lunges at the dragon and swings his swords at it, dealing massive damage around its arms and spewing out blood. Sonic jumps right at the dragon's face and homing attacks it several times, dealing a good amount of damage to it. As Sonic continues to homing attack the dragon, Mash lunges at the dragon and swings her shield across the dragon's neck, making a huge cut which blood begins to spew out. The dragon roars as it tries to swing its head around to knock Sonic back but Sonic dodges it and performs an overhead axe kick at the dragon's head, knocking it down to the ground. Beowulf soon after stabs his swords right at the dragon, making it roar in pain and blood spew out more. Mash quickly jumps right at the dragon and slams her shield down the dragon's eyes and punctures it, making the eye explode and blood spew out as well. Sonic and Beowulf both jump away as they get ready for their ultimate attack. Sonic curls himself into a ball and begins to rev up to speed. Beowulf prepares himself behind Sonic to launch him towards the dragon. Sonic continues to rev up to speed until he is engulfed in blue flames ready to go. Sonic then jumps into the air as Beowulf swings both swords at Sonic and sends him flying towards the dragon like a baseball at high speed. Sonic then hits the dragon as it goes through its body, destroying the heart in the process and coming out through the back of the dragon. The dragon roars in pain one last time before laying down motionless. Sonic uncurls himself and skids on the ground, stopping himself.
"It's over, Grendel. You're a monster that's not meant to be summoned. We'll likely never meet again. ...Dammit, I met the one I wanted to meet the least..." Beowulf said
"Wh-Why... The one...who killed...you..." Grendel asks
"Actually, you're the one I fear the most in this world. The fire dragon simply dealt the killing blow. It was strong but didn't frighten me. I also now have dependable allies, unlike then. You're a fool to not see that. Good riddance masqueraded. You should've had a bit more faith in your own strength.
"D-Damn you!" Grendel shouted before vanishing away
"Another job is done," Sonic said
"Seems we really got him this time!" Mash said
"Guess so. My Noble Phantasm is unlocked now. In the future, you'll face punks looking for a fight. When that happens, let me help you. Well then, I guess we should head back, Master! Time for our triumphant return! Hah hah!" Beowulf said
Interlude IV
Once Upon a Time in the Forest...
"~ "
Sonic just stares at Boudica who was humming a song on her own.
"Seems like your enjoying yourself," Sonic said
"Oh, sorry. Was I humming? It's been so long since I've walked through my home forest. I just, you know? I was just enjoying myself. Anyway, Sonic, are you okay? We've been walking a long way. Are you tired?" Boudica asks
"I'm totally fine. I can go running around the world several times and will still feel great!" Sonic replied
"I see. Okay. Glad you're doing well!" Boudica said
"Oh..."
"That's what I always say, but today she said it first... N-No, it doesn't matter. It's not important." Mash thought
"Fou?"
"Yes, what is it, Fou? Why are you rubbing against me?" Mash asks
"Fou, fo, foou. Kyuu!"
I think Fou's trying to make you feel better. Boudica's like everyone's big sister. So Sonic ends up being like her little brother. Yup, yup. Kinda weird to be honest but anyway... And that means Mash is going to feel lonely. That's what Fou's saying, I think." Romani said
"I'm not a fan of being the whole little brother type stuff. But if she views me as a little brother, I won't change her mind. She gets to look at me any way she wants. I won't judge." Sonic said
"Fou, fooou."
"...Thank you, Fou. But don't worry about me. Both Boudica and I are Master's Servants. I don't feel lonely... Not at all. It actually makes me feel better to have more people looking out for Master." Mash said
"Fou?"
"Oh, right. Before we rayshifted... I used the kitchen in the Chaldea living quarters to make us some lunch. If you're hungry, would you like to have some? I tried making Japanese rice balls. It's my first time, so I don't know if they'll be good... But if you're hungry, how about it?" Boudica asks
"Japanese rice balls? Never tried that before... the only food I enjoy is Chilli Dogs and that's about it." Sonic replied
"Really?! You never ate these before?! You're missing out Master... come on, let's take a break here so you could try one of these. Hey, Mash, how about it? Can we rest?" Boudica said
"Oh, yes. It should be safe. We need to give Senpai a chance to rest, too." Mash replied
"I told you I was fine, Mash..." Sonic said
"Hooray Let's eat, then! I think we could rest by that grass over there, right? Boudica asks
"Foou!"
"That's right. We won't need to lay down a blanket then..." Mash said
"I'm jealous you guys get to have a picnic! I'm eating by myself...wait! Multiple magical energy signatures detected! We may have found our target! Romani shouted
"Oh, jeez! I was looking forward to a good relaxation in the forest. These nasty little goblins are interrupting just when it's getting good!" Boudica disappointed
"Multiple packs coming from the front, Master! Be careful." Mash said
"...Heheh. Yummy women...yummy...hahaha."
"Kill the men... Kill the creature... Take the women back to the nest, hehe."
Romani and Fou's eyes widened after hearing the goblin. Sonic just stood on his spot with his eyes closed and arms folded.
"Delicious-looking women? ...O-Oh no! I heard the ancient Celtic goblins were primitive! But this goes beyond primitive, and sounds like they're planning something weird!? B-But are they? Are they planning something weird!?" Romani shock
"Fo, foou!?"
"Doctor? Fou, too...? Why are you so agitated?" Mash asks
"Not only have you interrupted our rest, but you have also defiled the forests of Britannia... I was planning on resting Sonic on my lap and giving the Master a much-needed pampering..." Boudica said
"Huh?"
No reaction from Sonic yet.
"I don't know if it's the Grail's influence, but these goblins have grown bigger than usual! I remember normal goblins being a little bit smaller than this! You weird goblins, I will never... Ever, lose to you!" Boudica shouted
"!"
"!"
"!"
"Huh? Y-You're not doing that on purpose, right!? Boudica, that's what people say when they lose..." Romani said
"Fou!"
"Huh? What?"
"Doctor, what are you saying?" Mash confused
Moments later, the army of goblins begins to charge at the three full speed to kill the army men and capture both Boudica and Mash. However, moments later, Sonic opens his eyes as his green colour eyes were now firey red. The Red Wisp then appears from Sonic's body and enters back into him as Sonic transforms into the Burst form and charges at the goblins. The goblins notice the fireball heading towards them and quickly turn and began running away. Sonic soon charges up into a glowing ball, catches up to the army and releases a massive explosion that incinerates the goblin army into ash in an instance. Boudica, Mash, Fou, and Romani all watch as Sonic lands back with them and returns to his normal blue form once again.
"Don't you think I will ever let you harm my friends and use them for your own amusement! You make me sick!" Sonic angry
"S-Senpai..." Mash said
"Wow... Sonic, I have never seen you this angry before..." Romani said
"It's okay, Master. You could relax now... You did your job alright." Boudica said
"*Takes A Deep Breath And Sits On The Ground* Sorry... got a little carried away... couldn't help myself taking down those guys. I wouldn't forgive myself if I didn't stop them and they did something extremely terrible to you two." Sonic replied
"Master really does care about us and our safety. That's why he's the best Master I've ever had! Anyway, Thanks for coming with me, guys. We wiped out those bad goblins from my home's forests. When you fixed Nero's era, I got a bad feeling. So I came here to check it out, and sure enough, I was right." Boudica thanking everyone
"Don't mention it, Boudica. Helping friends out is always my first objective." Sonic replied
"I believed in you. I knew your intuition was correct." Mash replied
"Thanks, Mash. You really are a good girl. I'll give you something nice later." Boudica said
"N-Not really..." Mash replied
"But I've never seen goblins swell up like that. There were so many, and they attacked us. Forest spirits aren't necessarily always like that, you know. It should be rare to see them at all. Hmm... Maybe this is the Grail's doing? What a mess that thing makes." Boudica said
"Oh, yeah. If you look through the records it causes all kinds of trouble." Romani replied
"Is it that easy... for human wishes to cause disaster? The Grail can grant any wish, so it can easily cause disasters. Which means that maybe... Human wishes themselves often bring disaster. That's just a theory though..." Mash said
"Yes. You might be right. But I don't think I want to believe that. Wishes are supposed to be... They're supposed to be much simpler things. More humble, and warmer, I think. For example..."
"For example?" Romani asks
"Fou?"
"Like eating a nice meal with someone you love, maybe. That's what I mean. Do you understand–what I'm saying? Boudica asks
"I hope you mean "love" as best friends type..." Sonic said
"Hahaha... of course, it is. *Winks With One Eye While Looking At Mash.*" Boudica replied
"..."
"Now then, *Sits Down Next To Sonic* I'll get the lunches out! I'll sit next to you, Sonic. Come on, you too, Mash! You sit next to me, too!" Boudica said
"R-Right!" Mash replied
"Fou!"
Interlude V
Dimming Moonlight and My Precious
"Fou, foou! (What is the meaning of this, Blue!)" Fou said
"Don't look at me, it's Caligula here who did all this to my room. And he still looks very similar to a swordsman I fought a while ago. I don't even remember his name... that incident happened a long time ago." Sonic replied
"Didn't you say before you remember a quote he said every time like... "I fight for my friends..." or something?" Romani asks
"Yea... I did... That's the only thing I remember." Sonic replied
"*Enter Sonic's Room* Senpai, as for today's plans–Fou? Wh-What is going on in this room? There are posters all over the wall... Are these posters of Nero?" Mash confuse
"Oh, Mash? You came at just the right time! This Berserker...I mean, Caligula!" Romani said
"My...beautiful...niece... My...beautiful...treasure..." Caligula said
"Th-These are all posters of Emperor Nero... Wh-What in the world is going on here..." Mash shock
"I don't know! I was suddenly called to Sonic's room, and this is what I found... I'd like to know why as well." Romani replied
"Hey Caligula, do you really like Nero that much?" Sonic asks
"Nero... My lovely sister's...daughter..." Caligula replied
"I'll take that as a yes..." Sonic said
"*Enter Sonic's Room* Ummm, I'm sorry to interrupt your fun, but Roman soldiers are wreaking havoc throughout Rome. If we do nothing, it's going to be bad, right? This era will end up being inconsistent with the actual history." Da Vinci said
"Oh, dammit! Why now? Can you go, Sonic?" Romani asks
"You can count on me," Sonic replied
"Let's hurry, Master!" Mash said
"My...niece's...city... Who dares...to cause...havoc..." Caligula said
"What? You're going too?" Romani said
Moments later, Sonic, Mash, and Caligula teleported to Rome.
*Rome*
The three teleported to Rome where they are quickly greeted by Roman soldiers destroying Rome.
"Fou!"
"Over there, Master!"
"Anyone who would commit the crime of devastating my beloved niece's Rome– Shall be punished by death! –Neroooooooo!" Caligula shouted
"It looks like Caligula is up to the task as well!" Mash said
"No, I don't think this is quite the same..." Romani replied
"Move Master!"
Caligula rushes past Sonic as he charges at the Roman Soldiers. The Roman Soldiers notice Caligula charge at them as they all charge at Caligula. Caligula makes a fist and throws a powerful at one of the soldiers, breaking their helmets and punching them square in the face before throwing them to a wall of a building. Two more soldiers charge at Caligula with spears but this makes Caligula even angrier as he grabs both spears and takes them away from the soldier's grip before grabbing both soldiers' heads and smashing them into each other throwing them in the air and falling behind Sonic and Mash. Caligula dashes forward and kicks one of the Golems in the gut before throwing a powerful punch at Golem's head and shattering it before vanishing away.
"This is something my buddy Knuckles would've done if he was that angry," Sonic commented
"–Hng! My... Ooohh–Nerooooooo!
"Whoa! He's getting really fired up! I-Is he, ok?" Romani asks
"Well, Doctor. He may look like he's enraged, but he's guiding the enemy away so the city won't sustain any damage." Mash replied
"A-Are you serious? Even though he's a Berserker?
"Fou!"
"It's obvious he has considerable love for the city of Rome. Let's help him out, Master!" Mash said
"I rather not see these soldiers get hurt any much longer. I'll take them out the less painful way." Sonic replied
Sonic dashes away as he creates a powerful vortex that sucks in all the Roman Soldiers, including the Chimera. Caligula watches as the Roman Soldiers were being spun around the vortex and not being able to do anything. A few seconds later, the vortex explodes as the Roman Soldiers and Chimera were blasted away into the sky, leaving the earth's stratosphere and never coming back down.
"*Returns With Mash* See. Easy huh?" Sonic said
"Less Painful." All those soldiers will have a painful death not having air to breathe in space." Romani said
"..."
"Senpai..." Mash said
"...A-Anyway... Good job, Caligula. You really showed who's the best fighter." Sonic said
"The city...my lovely...niece loved... I laud...its beauty...for all...eternity..." Caligula said
"He's going too far. What do you call that... a doting father? No, he's her uncle, so a doting uncle?" Romani asks
"Rome, forever, Caligula!" Sonic shouted
"H-Hold on a second here, Senpai! Are you all right? Are you sure you didn't aren't dizzy from that battle?" Mash asks
"Beautiful...So beautiful...! You eclipse even the moon...the pride of Rome...You are so beautiful!" Caligula shouted
Interlude VI
The Taboo
"A demonic boar...in the forest?" Mash asks
"Yeah, someone saw it in this forest lately, I hear," Romani replied
"So you came to me? I'm not a hunter. Besides, there are others better suited than me. Fionn's first spear, maybe. Know the guy?" Cu Chulainn said
"Well, I don't think he'd want to deal with a boar... That's one of the biggest traumas in all his stories..."
"Yea... I rather not say anything about his fear. It's not my business." Sonic said
"Fou... (Good choice Blue...)" Fou said
"Oh, fine... Sure. Gáe Bolg was getting rusty anyway. *Notices A Giant Monster Heading Towards Their Way* Oh, I see we're heading out now In a rush, huh?" Cu Chulainn said
"That's no boar, it's a stray homunculus. Master, prepare for combat!"
Sonic rushes at the Homunculus and performs a backwards roundhouse kick, kicking the Homunculus away from him. Cu Chulainn lunges at the Homunculus and stabs it several times across its body before slashing and dropping it to the ground. Mash jumps right at the Homunculus and performs an overhead axe kick at the Homunculus's face, hitting it with her heels and stabbing it through its heading. Sonic then jumps on top of the Homunculus and vibrates himself to phase through the Homunculus's stomach and begins attacking from the inside. Mash and Cu watch as the noises come from inside the Houmunuculus stomach before Sonic escapes by spinning dashing out of the stomach and landing right next to top them as the Humunuclus lays motionless on the ground.
"Too easy!" Sonic said
"I guess that's it, then. So, where's this boar?" Cu Chulainn asks
"That's strange. They said it attacks as soon as you enter the forest, but instead...we saw a homunculus..." Mash replied
"*Notices Footprints* ...Oh, here we go. Animal tracks. This one is big."
"Good work. I guess no monster is a match for the great hero of Celtic legend, huh?
"Flattery will get you nowhere. Let's go, Master. Still...This is weird.."
"Oh...Senpai, let's go." Mash said
"Don't worry, I'm coming," Sonic said
The four begin following the footprints on the ground. As they were following the footprints, Cu Chulainn comes to an apertured stop.
"–Wait. There it is. This way."
"Huh!? I'm not picking up anything on my end..." Romani said
"Under those rocks. Looks like we've got a problem on our hands." Cu Chulainn said
"That's a big boar... But it's already dead." Mash said
"It's huge... You can barely call it a boar now." Romani said
"Really? This is nothing, our boars had runes on their back." Cu Chulainn replied
"Celtic boars ate runes, huh? That explains why some were tougher than dragons."
"But what could kill a boar that's this size?"
"We'll talk later missy. Here it is...Our real prey!"
Moments later, a Chimera appears from the forest.
"What! A chimera? Why is something like that here?" Romani shock
"I don't know where a chimera's heart is, but your luck ran out when you met me. It ain't a great heart, but it's worth aiming for. All right, your heart is mine-"
All of a sudden, Sonic dashes towards the Chimera and begins homing attacking it over and over around its body. The Chimera couldn't attack Sonic since he always disappeared when he looked in a direction. Cu Chulainn and Mash both watch as Sonic goes even faster homing attacking the Chimera. Several seconds later, the Chimera couldn't stand anymore as it falls to the ground after being repeatedly attacked by Sonic. Moments later, Sonic homing attacks on top of the Chimera and defeats it soon after. Sonic then lands back on the ground and walks back to Cu and Mash.
"I'm starting to get sick of the Chimera creatures..." Sonic said
"Whoa there, Master. Let's calm down there." Cu Chulainn said
"Master, are you hurt anywhere?" Mash asks
"No, I'm fine as always," Sonic replied
"...I see, so that's what's going on. Hey, step back a bit. Should be around here. There we go. *Collects The Rune Spells*"
"Could that be...rune spells?" Romani said
"Senpai, there's a cave beneath the rock!" Mash surprise
"It was being concealed by spells. This is an abandoned workshop. Being third-rate doesn't mean it's okay to be sloppy, too. If you're gonna leave, at least tidy up." Cu Chulainn said
"I see. Test objects were left roaming free when the workshop was abandoned... This boar hunt may have taken an odd turn, but can we say it's been taken care of?" Romani said
"What do we do with the remains of the chimera and the boar? We can't just leave them here..." Mash asks
"Yeah, how about turning them into a stew? The job's done, and I'm hungry!" Cu Chulainn said
"I-I rather not eat this kind of food..." Sonic commented
"Don't worry, Master. It'll be totally fine. Well, if it's rotten and gives me the runs after it's sterilized, I'll deal with it then. Well, if it's rotten and gives me the runs after it's sterilized, I'll deal with it then." Cu Chulainn said
*Night Time*
"Speaking of which, you sure know how to cook. You're a Heroic Spirit of many talents, I guess." Mash asks
"I've been on my own a lot in my life. *Begins To Eat* Oh, the chimera tastes pretty good, huh?
"Fou! (Nom nom)"
"You think it's good too, Fou?" Mash said
"I don't know if you people are fearless or what... Who knows what's in a chimera, but you're just gobbling it down."
"*Looks At The Stew For A little Before Eating* It's alright... I guess." Sonic said
"...Hold it. If this is a chimera, did it use dogs as parts?" Cu Chulainn asks
"Who knows? A chimera is made by fusing all sorts of creatures together. It could contain any number of them. But, so what if it did?" Romani replied
"You should have told me that first, you idiot! I can't believe this! I'm leaving!" Ch Chulainn shouted
"Huh!? You're done?" mash confused
"I don't want it! See you! *Walks Away* Dammit! I can't believe this!"
"*Confused* W-What happen?" Sonic asks
"Oh, the Hound of Culann... He swore he'd never eat a dog, didn't he?" Romani commented
"Didn't he consider himself a replacement... for the guard dog he killed? Ah, so that's why...(Nom nom)" Mash said
"Meh... whatever, this thing is starting to taste good though," Sonic replied
"Fou!"
Interlude VII
Sage of the Forest
"Pure water and unpolluted air... This is a calm forest, isn't it?" Mash said
"Fou, Foou..."
"Do you feel that way, too, Fou? Even with the buzzing tree leaves and the chirping sound of birds, for some reason, I think of only serenity. Is it because there're no humans here?" Mash asks
"This feels just like home. Peaceful sky, beautiful trees, shade. What else can you ask for?" Sonic replied
"Forests are nice. Well, that's because animals and plants are singing the praises of life here. Despite the bustle of people and other things, forests can stand up as forests solely by themselves. It's not the domain of people, in the first place. Though almost the entire earth is dominated by humans now. Animals, plants, fairies, gods. Compared to those in the forest, humans are just "extras." Ch Chulainn (Caster) said
"So, an uninvited guest. Is that who we are..." Mash said
"Umm? No, it's not that stiff... But how awful. The forest around here feels off. I came here to take a look and the air is just too rough." Ch Chulainn (Caster) said
"I didn't pick up anything here... Is there really a distortion here, Cú Chulainn? The Second Singularity, the 1st Century you guys fixed... This is northeastern Ireland in that time period. Sure, from the measurement there seems to be a delay in this era's correction. But is it a distortion? Looking at the numbers, it just seems to be a quiet forest..." Romani said
"I don't know about your situation but you shouldn't take forests lightly. Forests have been around before mankind. They may even have been around from the Age of the Gods even before that. Manipulating humans is exactly what it does best. Just look at that."
A werewolf appears all of a sudden.
"GUUUUUUU..."
"A beast man-monster!?" Mash shock
"What? I-I didn't pick up anything here! Oh, but it looks like there's a slight trace of magical energy reaction..." Romani shock
"I'd bet it's part of this forest. Anyway, I don't think it's here to welcome us."
"GUUUUUUU!"
"It's coming!"
"Let's do this!" Sonic said
Sonic rushes toward the werewolf crouches and performs a sweep kick, knocking the wolf down to the ground. Sonic then performs a somersault bicycle kick, sending the werewolf to the air, jumps at it and does an overhead axe kick that sends the werewolf back down to the ground.
"Cleaned up for the most part? You could say it was done as planned but rough, you know?" Cu Chulainn said
"...Cú Chulainn. Do you have any idea about the distortion that's left in the 1st Century?" Mash asks
"Yeah, I do. I'm Cú Chulainn, an Ulster hero, you know. I'm not used to this calendar style called century, but, this is "my era." Cu Chulainn replied
"Really?" Sonic asks
"Yes, Senpai. This is the era in which he was alive– The specific period of Celt and Ulster legends are presumed to be from 100 B.C. to 100 A.D." Mash replied
"Precisely. That said, the me that was alive already "died" decades ago by now. For some reason, I feel attached to this era. I don't know why, I can just feel something. Maybe that's also because I manifested as a Caster, oddly, I am keener on picking up magical energy." Cu Chulainn said
"I see. That's why you were able to sense the distortion happening here in your hometown." Romani said
"My hometown, you say. Still, I think it's because I'm a Caster... It's the forest."
"?"
"I'm a Celtic, a man of Ulster. If I'm a mage then that can only mean I became "that." A "Druid". The runes I use originated from Norse legends, but Celtic mages are normally Druids." Cu Chulainn said
"Druids?" Sonic said
"Yes, Senpai. The Celtic priests are referred to as Druids. They are people who have a deep relationship with the forest and monument and can perform mystics the same as the magecrafts we know." Mash explaining
"Very interesting," Sonic said
"Of course, they existed in my times, too. However, I am not actually a Druid. Like I said before, the type of magecraft I use is runes. I combine the rune characters here and there to perform the mystics. However, there's an exception. When I manifested in this form... I obtained it as a "Noble Phantasm." It was given to me when I was a Celtic mage."
"...Wicker Man, the Cage of All-Consuming Flame," Mash said
"Right. A Flame Noble Phantasm is given to me after becoming a Celtic mage who could manipulate blazing heat. Originally, it was a Noble Phantasm for Druids, since it was a magical tool used in sacrificial offerings. That's what summoned me here, telling me to stop the distortion."
"Hmm? You mean the distortion of this forest was..."
"...The forest won't die... ...All forests, without men... ...So, so they shall not be incinerated... ...The forest shall be preserved... ...Even if mankind ends up perishing..."
"Wait what?" Sonic said
"Bingo! That's the one distorting this forest and preventing the correction of this era. That thing is a "Druid." But also more than that. Fearing the incineration of worlds, a cluster of madness. A collection of dead souls who couldn't ascend to the Throne of Heroes. You actually thought you could kill me using a beast-man? Hey, you guys! I'm talking to you!" Cu Chulainn said
"...The forest won't die... ...All forests will continue to be without mankind...!"
"Silence, ghost! Be a man or fairy, you're a part of the forest if you live here! This lecture! You guys are the ones who are supposed to say it, right!"
"A magical energy reaction approaching, Senpai! An enemy is coming!"
"Hey, Cu... Why don't we do that little performance we did before?" Sonic said
"Now that's what I'm talking about Blue." Cu replied
"Alright then, let's do it!" Sonic said
Sonic revs up and spin-dashes into the Druid Ghosts' faces. Cu fires off several bolts at the Druid Ghosts while they were distracted by Sonic's attack. Sonic then begins reviving up faster and faster until a blue aura surrounds him.
"Time to send you back where you came from... WICKER-MAN!"
"GO!"
Sonic dashes through the large flame wooden golem and dashes toward the Druid Ghosts surrounded in flame. Sonic strikes all the Druid Ghosts as they all began yelling in pain. Moments later, the ghosts vanish away.
"Once again... a ballsy move there, blue..." Cu said
"Victory confirmed. The battle is over, Senpai." Mash said
"...Gosh. My job is over at this point then. Time to go home now. Thanks for coming with me." Cu said
"Don't mention it, buddy. Would you like to see the others?" Sonic asks
"I'll pass. Sure, I'd like to meet up with some people but, well... You know, I'm a mage now. Who knows what could happen if I went back like this?" Cu replied
"Right, because Druids hold a very special position in the Celtic cultural world, you know? If the hero, Cú Chulainn, who was supposed to be dead, comes back as a Druid, then there'll be a huge uproar. I bet a bunch of countries will rise and fall!" Romani said
"That's right. So, well, this is it. I got to breathe in some nostalgic air. Nice. Let's go back now?"
"Sure.: Sonic said
"Yes, Senpai!"
Interlude VIII
Lord of the Destructive Storm
Sonic and Mash watch as the army roared while raising their weapons in the air for Darius
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—!" Darius roared
"What a crowd," Sonic commented
"–And the giant king has risen up. It's the valiant king of ancient Persia, the last king of the Achaemenid Empire. The king who purged the traitor Bagoas ruled justly and battled his eternal rival, Iskandar the Conqueror. He confronted the world's greatest king of combat, standing in his way as the giant man, a giant wall of infinite valour. His name is Darius III. The only person in the world capable of defeating him is Iskandar." Mash said
Sonic and Mash watch as Darius and his army fight off the enemy army, killing them one by one while Sonic and Mash watch.
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—!" Darius roared
Therefore he was invincible. He will crush any and all enemy soldiers. From the left approaches a battalion of enemy soldiers, but...
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—!" Darius roared
"He is completely invincible! He easily smashes the soldiers to dust. From the right approaches a battalion of enemy soldiers, but naturally–
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—!" Darius roared
"He is utterly invincible! He mows the soldiers down like grass. Mighty Darius III. Valiant Darius III. His ferocious onslaught cannot be stopped! Just like the King of Conquerors he used to fight when he was alive."
"Wow... you're really good at narrating," Sonic said
"Oh, actually Senpai. You see, Doctor sent me a script or something... He said we looked bored, so he told me to read this." Mash replied
"I see... should we go help him out?" Sonic asks
"Well, we can try to help, but Darius has been like that this whole time–
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—!" Darius roared
"He's been sweeping through these skeleton soldiers, so it's impossible to get near him..." Mash said
"He seems perfectly fine without our help. I wonder why he even came here in the first place. I know Sonic had a feeling, that in this era– Darius has some business here in the 1st Century Rome, an era no longer affected by the Grail. But..." Romani said
"I can definitely understand Darius on what he's saying. But I can't understand what he means by all that." Sonic said
"Although you can understand him... You don't exactly know why he's doing this?" Mash asks
"Basically," Sonic replied
"At any rate, we don't know why the skeleton soldiers are here! But he sure intends to defeat all the monsters here! So he should be satisfied once all of them are defeated. We'll just have to trust that he won't be angry if we take some of his prey! All right–Shall we do this? Romani said
"Yea I can take down a few skeletons. You ready Mash?" Sonic asks
"Yes, Master. Let's do this."
Sonic and Mash then charge toward the skeleton army as well. Some of the skeletons notice Sonic and Mash charging as they charge at them as well. Sonic dashes towards one of the skeletons and punches them away, grabbing their sword in the process. Sonic then charges up and performs a somersault with the sword, taking down several skeletons in under a couple of seconds. Using the speed Mash trained with Sonic, she uses her speed to slam on several skeletons with her shield, breaking them as pieces of their bones flew around her. Darius notices Sonic and Mash joining the fight as well as he roars and continues to fight off the skeleton army alongside his men. For a minute, Sonic and Mash took down many skeletons they faced and decreased the number of skeletons Darius and his army faced. However, more Skeletons appear and continue to fight off Darius's army.
"...The enemy still has much strength left. We must continue fighting, Master!
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—!" Darius roared
"Ummm, looks like we just need one more push!"
"Mash, would care to join me for a run?" Sonic asks
"Sure thing, Senpai," Mash replied
Moments later, Sonic and Mash dash away as they begin taking down hundreds and hundreds of skeletons using their speed. Pieces of bones flew everywhere as Sonic and Mash defeated skeletons over and over.
"...None of the enemies remains. The battle is over. Nice work, Senpai. Darius has calmed down now." Mash said
"..."
"Excuse me, Darius. Why did you come to this era? Did you bring us here because you sensed something, and figured out why the monsters were showing up?" Mash asks
"Well... this is ancient Rome here after all," Sonic said
"Yes. I'm sure there's some phenomenon here that's related to him..." Mash replied
"Ahh... Yes. So it seems. Well, there does seem to be some phenomenon related to him. We've just finished a preliminary analysis, and the origin of the skeleton soldier and ghost spawning is... the presence of His Majesty Darius himself!" Romani said
'What?!"
"Are you talking about his Noble Phantasm?" Sonic said
"Yes. Well, you see, it's the Noble Phantasm he carries. "Athanaton Ten Thousand." That Noble Phantasm is based on his ten thousand elite soldiers who actually existed, and his legend of unyielding valour. Along with the legend of their "immortality," they've actually ended up becoming indestructible..." Romani explaining
"Immortality... I see." Mash said
"That's what's behind this. His Noble Phantasm is able to summon skeleton soldiers and ghosts. This location is the recent battlefield where Nero's Roman Army and the United Empire Army clashed. That's why the undead kept showing up." Romani said
"*Speechless*"
"I see... So... That's... What's... Happening." Mash said
"Foo, fou..."
"Now, that's one crazy private army generator... Oh, well..." Romani said
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—!" Darius roared
"At least he seems satisfied now... Let's just forget about it..." Romani said
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—!" Darius roared
"..."
Interlude IX
Two Heroes, To the End of the Battlefield
Sonic and Mash watch as Darius and his army fight off the enemy soldiers that were attacking his army as well. Darius was on a rampage taking down enemy soldiers with his duel axes. Puddles of blood were everywhere on the battlefield.
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—!" Darius roared
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—! Darius roared
"Whoa! Darius III is going even more wild than before! We're back on a 1st century Roman battlefield again! I-Is this his own private army generator again? What about you, Master? Do you sense anything!?" Romani shock
"It seems that his power and chaos energy has something to do with his new strength," Sonic replied
"His attacks are faster than before! He's clearly on a rampage! Watch your magical energy consumption, Senpai. Watch your magical energy consumption, Senpai." Mash shouted
"Foou! Kyuu!"
"A-Anyway, let's use the same strategy as last time! We have to eliminate the enemy before anything bad happens to Sonic!"
"Ummm... Da Vinci said that my magical energy doesn't drain since Chaos Energy is keeping it hold." Sonic said
"No time to explain, Senpai! We need to hurry!"
"Relax, I got this," Sonic said
Sonic dashes toward the skeleton army as he creates a vortex once again and sucks in the skeleton army. All the skeletons were sucked into the vortex as they collided with one another and broke into pieces. Moments later, the vortex explodes as all the bones flew in every direction around the battlefield.
"Did that work?" Sonic said
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—! Darius roared
"Whaaaa? He's still excited after all the monsters are defeated? Last time, he calmed down the moment they were wiped out, and we could just go back..." Romani shock
"No, Doctor. I'm afraid this time the situation is different... There's a Servant here." Mash said
"*Appears* It's been a while. When was the last time we met like this? Perhaps I'm one of the Servants you summoned? I can't be sure, since my connection has been severed. So it's pretty hard to figure out what's going on there, sorry about that." Alexander said
"!"
"Oh hey there, Alexander," Sonic said
"It's the opposite of what happened in Rome. Because you called to me so much– It seems I ended up being chain summoned by you. Maybe this place is still affected by the Grail? I do have to say, your determination sure is strong. Since I'm like this, I can't really grasp the impact of my later years. But I have nothing but respect for you. O brave king of Persia. Darius III." Alexander said
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—! Darius roared
"Sheesh! This guy just won't stop! Young Alexander, wh-what are we gonna do?" Romani said
"He wants to fight me. In that case, I think I'll just have to face him. Since how we are summoned is reversed from last time, it would be fun to also reverse our roles in life! You'll be the one marching onward! And I shall be the one who stands in your way! The king who will eventually stand before me, no, who stood before me, Darius III! Come! Let's battle it out! Just how much I can fight in this form... I've always wanted to test it out! With you, my beloved rival!" Alexander said
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—! Darius roared
"Senpai, time for battle!"
"Wait, wait, wait! Do I really have to fight against a child once again?" Sonic said
"Senpai..."
"From the looks of it, I'm pretty sure yes," Alexander replied
"*Sigh* Okay listen to me, Darius. You can get mad at me all you want but I won't allow you to fight a child. Not when I'm around at least." Sonic said
"..."
"Alexander, to prevent you from getting hurt. I'll declare this fight as your victory. I'm not a fan of fighting children. The last time I did, I was forced to because I was under the control of some entity because we were just trophies." Sonic replied
"Hmm... Wahahahahaha! How amusing! I didn't expect someone like you to back down from a fight Hedgehog. My opponent is the dauntless giant king! None other than the last king of the Achaemenid Empire, Darius III!
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—! Darius roared
"Ooh! Ooh! You're quite pleased to see me, I can tell! There are none that can stand before you, not even my youthful self! You died and transformed into a Heroic Spirit! You magnificently assimilated ten thousand soldiers, King Darius! If anyone can defeat you... It can only be me, Iskandar the Conqueror!"
"...Uh?!"
"Iskandar! It's Alexander in his later years... Without a doubt, it is the King of Conquerors! Th-That's one incredible, super-famous hero! I didn't think the influence of the Holy Grail was still so strong in this area!" Romani shouted
"*Transform into Iskander* No, this has nothing to do with the Holy Grail! Someone has relentlessly insisted on calling me! Someone none other than you! Isn't that right, Darius, my greatest rival!" Iskander said
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—! Darius roared
"No use, there's no way to stop him now! King Iskandar, please..." Mash begged
"Not to worry! Not to worry! This is why I showed up. Let's go at it with everything we've got!"
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—! Darius roared
"Wahahahahaha! What a joy! Let us cross swords again!"
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—! Darius roared
"...Yes Darius, you can now fight..." Sonic replied
Moments later, Darius charges at Iskander and swings his axes at Iskander multiple times at him. Iskander quickly dodges Darius and counters back by slashing Darius as well. Darius jumps back as he roars once again and charges at Iskander at full speed. Iskander always charges at Darius as well. However, Darius slashes Iskander's horse as it yells in pain and almost drops Iskander. Iskander manages to keep his stance as he charges at Darius and swings his sword at him again. Darius also swings his axes at Iskander as well the two begin clanging their weapons over and over. Moments later, Darius's eyes turn bright green as a green aura surrounds him. Chaos Energy begins to fill Darius. Darius throws a powerful swing at Iskander that knocks him a few meters away. Darius than lunges at Iskander once again and slashes him several times using Chaos Energy. Iskander couldn't block the powerful attacks from Darius as Darius aims his axes to the air, ready to finish Iskander off.
"Darius... that's enough!" Sonic shouted
Darius stops charging at Iskander and looks back at Sonic.
"Looks like you used Chaos Energy. I'm very proud... You fought well. But I don't want you killing Iskander either." Sonic said
"..."
"Senpai... He used a lot of Chaos Energy... Do you not feel anything at all?" Mash asks
"No... I have plenty for everyone. Besides... it's limitless. To a certain degree though." Sonic replied
"...I see. Well, to tell the truth, as soon as I saw his eyes turn green. I knew I was toasted... Not only was I not properly summoned, but I was also forcefully materialized without a Holy Grail... It only makes sense it turned out like this. Darius III, you are the enormous wall that stood before me. Now that your magical energy supply is down, my voice probably won't reach you anymore... But the next time we meet, let's face each other..." Iskander said before vanishing away
"..."
"Servant Iskandar, elimination confirmed. The battle is over..." Mash said
'Whew. He left without causing too much trouble. Thank goodness he's the understanding type. I'm so glad." Romani said
"Yes, you're right."
"Come on you three. Let's go back home." Sonic said
Interlude X
The New Elisa
"Excuse me. An old-fashioned letter arrived addressed to you, Senpai." Mash said
"A letter?" Sonic said
"I'll read it to you. All right...Hm. It's a notice for a concert tour." Mash said
"A Concert?" Sonic confuse
"What! Who? Who's coming here? Magi Mari! Could it be Magi Mari? Oh, has my holy 2D internet idol finally manifested here in the real world?" Romani said
"Fou..."
"Let's see, it says the idol is... the super hot Dragon Girl, Idoler Elisa..." Mash reading the letter
"Wow... now that's a name I would've never thought of," Sonic said
"We're done. Everyone, great work." Romani said
"Huh?"
"Who cares? Honestly, who cares about a real idol and their scandals? It'll muddy my boyish heart! Those virtual net idols won't ever betray me." Romani said
"Virtual net idols? What are those?" Sonic asks
"*Runs Into The Room* Here you are, Puppy! Did you read my announcement yet? Did you? Of course, you did! What an easy response! And a healthy complexion! Perfect! All right, then let's go do it! Idoler Elisa, Live Tour 20XX... I heard people were already lining up the night before, so you better hurry Here we go, Chief AD/Sponsor! Elly Festival IN some time somewhere. Let the Rondo of Blood begin! Don't forget to bring your guitar!" Elizabeth said before running away
"*Looks At His Guitar He Got From Da Vinci's Store* Hmm..." Sonic thinking
"Ah, Senpai! What does she mean by sponsor?" Mash asks
"Fou!"
*Rome*
"..."
"...Fou"
"
"Impossible...Impossible! The venue is supposed to be filled with mobs of pathetic slaves! With wildly waving glow-sticks, and fresh blood! It was supposed to be a special live event with tragedy and genocide!" Elizabeth angry
"I only brought my guitar... You told me to bring it. And also were out of funds..." Sonic said
"Fou?"
"Huh? Is it possible the fans got the wrong start time? Are they going to surprise me because today's my birthday? Are they? Well, since it's not actually my birthday today, we could make it an anniversary, right? Um, today marks the successful opening of my live tour. ...(Jotting that down) That should do it. Okay, Puppy! Elly Live Tour 20XX!" Let's get this party started!" Elizabeth shouted
"Sure let's do this," Sonic replied
"...No, Senpai, look!" Mash shouted
"It's definitely an enemy raid. Honestly, I'm grateful." Romani said
"Right! They definitely hate us! I kind of noticed that you dumbass!" Elizabeth replied
"There's more, Master! A large number of enemy reinforcements! It's like they'll do anything to stop her concert... Firmly resolved to crush it, to protect their wives and children... I am sensing the determination of a man, filling with grim resolve!
"Well, I'd guess that Elisabeth giving a concert near the town would leave the townsfolk numb for a day. Wow, things are heating up! In a sense, today's concert is a jam-packed success!" Romani said
"Fou!"
"Not that I like the way things are heating up! After all, if you're swooning over my stellar singing, doesn't that make this a huge win for me?" Elizabeth said
"It's that positive thinking that's at fault here. Singing shouldn't knock people out, Elisabeth!" Mash replied
"Let me handle this! *Eyes Begin To Glow Green As He Warms Himself*" Sonic said
"S-Senpai... What are you doing?" Mash asks
"Gonna give these guys the best concert they will ever see," Sonic replied
Moments later, Sonic begins playing INTERVALS - Rubicon Artist on his guitar as the music echoes around the sky. The enemy soldiers and monsters either yelled or roared as they couldn't bear the sound of Sonic's unknown music. Elizabeth and Mash watch as the monsters and soldiers were falling to the ground while covering their ears from the loud music was making.
"Hell yea! You got this Blue!" Elizabeth shouted
"..."
Sonic continues to play his guitar as the soldiers and monsters begin to flee from the three.
"They're leaving!" Romani shouted
"K-Keep playing that song, Senpai... They're almost gone!" Mash shouted
Eventually, all the monsters and soldiers all fled but Sonic continues playing the guitar. A couple of minutes later, Sonic finally stops playing on his guitar as he wipes the sweat off his forehead and smiles.
"Hehehe... I hope they enjoyed that." Sonic said
"Ummm... G-Good job Sonic. I didn't know you played the guitar..." Romani said
"I don't really mention it. People are usually shocked when they see me actually play one." Sonic replied
"They were casually mixed with others besides humans... Did the forest beasts also sense danger?"
"The only winner here is Blue here... I lost my own concert here... Oh, if I can't be an idol, then I'll have to go back to being an ordinary Dragon Girl..." Elizabeth disappointed
"*Rubs Elizabeth's Back* Don't worry, Elizabeth. Everything is going to be fine." Sonic cheering up Elizabeth
"I suppose I belong in a dark dungeon, an imprisoned idol, unnoticed and ignored. Doomed to silently rot away... Oh...Who made this era the way it is?" Elizabeth said
"Lev Lainur, I suppose," Romani said
"Fooou!"
"U-Um, Elisabeth, don't get disappointed..." Mash said
"Spare me your sympathy... I... I just noticed... You're on the right track, aren't you?" Elizabeth said
"What do you mean?" Sonic asks
"Your character is Puppy, so modest and genuine. You know...You might just work!" Elizabeth said
"Modest...Am I really?" Mash said
"Listen, are you interested in becoming an idol? You are, right? Of course, you are! You'll do it! Yes, this is it! An idol duo! All for me and one for me! Master here can be our instrumental guy! So, what do we call our unit? You have a good idea?" Elizabeth asks
"*Giggling* How about Elly Mash..." Sonic suggested
"You just ripped off Magi Mari, didn't you." Romani said
"That's kind of lame and I just don't feel it... Hm, since we're a lance and a shield, then... Contradiction! That's it! We're full of contradictions! Contradiction Drastic!" Elizabeth said
"Do you even know what that word means?" Sonic asks
"Well, let's get started with our lessons! Let's go, Mash! We'll shine in the night sky together! Let's aim to be Idol Servant stars!
"S-Senpai, please, do something..." Mash begged
"Don't worry, I'll be the best instrumental guy you'll ever hear." Sonic said
"!?"
To Be Continue...
"Next Time: Septem Interludes (Part 2.)" Sonic As The Narrator