A Hedgehog Of Chaldea
Septem Interludes (Part 2)
Interludes XI
From Me To My Sisters
Sonic stared at the water of the beach just minding his own business with his arms folded.
"Fooou! (This Place looks familiar!)" Fou said
"I finally get to relax and watch the beautiful beach without any worry of Empires fighting each other," Sonic replied
"Hehehehe. Yes, I see. So this is the place! It's kind of strange, this feeling I have. But, part of me seems to be accepting it. Yes, I see! In this place, something like this could happen. This is where "I" was. Hehe." Euryale said
Sonic just stares at Euryale without saying anything.
"That's right. "The Shaped Isle," I think she called it. We stopped by during our search for the Second Singularity. She–no, I mean "you," or maybe it's better to say "all of you?" Either way, the landscape seems to differ from the island you and the rest of the Gorgon Sisters, used to live on." Romani said
"Yes, it's very different. This is nothing like it. But they do have the sea in common. Yes, "I" was at the sea, was "I" not?" Euryale replied
Sonic again stares at Euryale without saying a word.
"...Senpai? You haven't said anything since she spoke." Mash said
"Fou?"
"Sorry... I was just listing to what she was saying." Sonic replied
"Hmm? What is it? Oh, right. You have my thanks, Sonic. Bringing me to the place where "I" was has made me very happy. I mean it. So I'll give you a reward. You see the cave entrance by those rocks?" Euryale said
"Oh not again..." Sonic commented
"That's the cave Stheno told us to go into. Dangerous monsters lived, no, were placed there." Mash said
"The Second Singularity, 1st century Rome, is already repairing itself, but it might still be dangerous. That phantasmal might still be there. It's better to stay away." Romani said
"And it's the location where I got killed as well..." Sonic added
"Hmm? What is it? I can't hear you." Euryale said
"Huh?"
"I'm curious to see what kind of trial "I" gave you. So... Please, Sonic " Euryale said
"Um, that's..."
No response from Sonic yet again.
"S-Senpai? What's gotten into you? You're acting strange." Mash said
"Fou, fooooou... (What happen Blue? Are experiencing Deja Vu?)" Fou said
"From the look of it, she's using some kind of Divine Authority?" Romani said
"But if she's using something of that nature, I think I'd be able to detect the magical energy..." Mash replied
"You're silly, Mash. I am a goddess. A goddess who was born only to be loved. Even as a Heroic Spirit and a Servant, my divine core does not change. So...hehe! It's natural for Sonic to fall in love with me." Euryale said
"..."
"That is not true. Seriously... why do Servants want me to fall in love with them? It's completely weird and insane! I'm perfect being alone... Besides, I'm already best friends with them, what else do they need to be satisfied?" Sonic thought
"What is it? You look like you want to say something." Euryale said
"N-No... I don't..." Mash replied
"Oh, really? Are you sure about that? I see. I see. Hehe. You're cute, for a human, Mash Kyrielight."
Sonic sighs as he walks past Euryale and Mash, returning to the cave he almost died in.
"S-Senpai!?"
No response from SOnic.
"...Senpai!"
"Foooouuuuuuuu..."
"Oh, jeez... I guess you're going into those caves. There isn't any treasure in there, though." Romani said
*Inside The Cave*
The four enter the cave and were greeted by enemies the second they entered the cave.
"GAAAAAAAA!"
"I sensed magical energy the instant we entered! Senpai!" Mash shouted
"What did I tell you? There's still a phantasmal here. Is it a chimera? I bet it's a chimera. Those things are strong!" Romani shouted
"Oh my! What an ugly, fierce, miserable beast! It's not fair! I didn't know there was all this fun here! Where did "I" find such a monster, I wonder? I want one too!" Euryale said
"It's going to eat us before you can keep it as a pet! Here it comes!"
"Senpai, your orders!"
"..."
"Senpai!"
"It's definitely some kind of charm! Completely under her spell! Fou, bite Sonic! Then we can fight!" Romani commanded
"Fo-uuuu! *Bites Sonic's Ears*"
"OW! I'm listening! What happen!" Sonic returning to reality
"Did you come to your senses now? It's time for battle!" Mash shouted
Sonic notices the army of skeletons charging right at them. The Red Wisp Appears and enter's Sonic body as he transforms into his Burst Form, charging toward the Skeleton army soon after. Sonic begins to charge up, causing extreme heat inside and causing the skeletons to engulf in flames. Moments later, Sonic explodes, causing the cave to shake and the army of skeletons to turn to ash soon after.
"Delightful to see Sonic putting on a show for me.
"No, wait. There's more! This time there are lots! Lots more!"
"Master!"
Sonic notices a massive army of Lamias and Chimeras heading his way. This made Sonic angry as he begins to charge up again into a glowing ball, this time charging up into a more powerful attack. Romani notices and his eyes widen.
"He's going overboard!" Romani shouted
"Senpai!"
The Chimeras and Lamias were all about to attack Sonic until he explodes and causes an even bigger powerful explosion that incinerates all the Chimeras and Lamias in a second, as well as shake the cave violently causing rocks to fall around to the ground. Mash places her shield above her, Euryale, and Fou as rocks fell around them. Some even fall on top of Mash's shield. Moments later, Sonic returns to the three and returns back to his original blue form cleaning his gloves and smirking.
"Apologies for not responding to your answers, Mash. Got a little distracted." Sonic said
"I-It's fine... Don't worry about it." Mash replied
"There was some weird snake, too, huh? I already have plenty of snakes." Euryale said
"You do?
"Oh... Ahem. No, nothing, Mash. Anyway, this cave is tiny. Are we at a dead end already?" Euryale replied
"Well, if this was a real labyrinth I would've opposed coming in here. Goddess, I'm glad your sister went easy on us during that trial..." Romani said
"I see ...Here it is. So this is what "I" was doing." Euryale replied
"Fou?"
"What's wrong?"
"...Nothing. 've seen what I came to see. Let's go." Euryale replied
"?"
"Fou?"
"Huh? What? Was something there?"
"What were you looking at?" Sonic asks
"It's nothing... Oh, jeez. Now even Fujimaru wants to know... Don't worry about it. I just found something I expected to find. A message that "I" left for me. Or maybe a message that "I" left for her. It's nothing. Really. If by some chance, or miracle, she and I were to manifest in the same era... That's impossible of course, but if it was possible... And then we never saw each other... This was a short message from "me," just in case that ever happened. She told "me" to never change. And for "you" to never change either. ...Wait, why are you making me say this? You're a cheeky Hedgehog, Sonic!" Euryale shouted
"Hehe... gotta have a little bit of fun myself after what you did to me," Sonic replied
"Some resistance to her charm should be present, but her spell is truly irresistible. That's what makes that Goddess so amazing." Romani said
"Of course. I'm a Goddess, beloved by all. All you have to do is love me. Just adore me from afar. Don't even think about peeking at me or inside of me. Otherwise–"a beautiful snake" will bite you!" Euryale shouted
"You said that the same way a green hair goddess would've told me before she disappeared. She was not fun to be around while fighting against her. Being a show-off with her "Lightweight move." Sonic commented
Interlude XII
Fionn mac Cumhaill, The Hero who Defeated the Gods
"What... I'm not so special a man. Indeed, I'm a man that would be categorized as a great hero. But that's just the end result. I killed a raging demonic beast and slaughtered a creature from the underworld you could call death itself. But, all that is expected of a guardian of Erin, a warrior serving the High King. The deed would have been done without me. For we are the glorious Knights of Fianna!" Fionn said
"Fionn... I fought dangerous creatures as well. But I'm not bragging about it." Sonic commented
"Fou, fou," Fou said
"Yes, Fou. ...It sounds pretty heroic to me. But you're being modest. Fionn mac Cumhaill of Fianna, guardian of Erin." Mash said
"Huh? Modest? That's modesty? All it sounds like to me is bragging... Not even Sonic brags like this and he's fought way more dangerous things than Fionn did." Romani said
"Haha, surely you jest. I'm just a man. I've nothing to brag about to anyone... Am I sure? Well, I'm sure I'm the hero who managed to slay a fallen Divine Spirit. I'm the descendant of the war god Nuadha and the central figure in the Erin myth? But see, that's merely the end result. I'm simply a man. Yes... just a handsome man whose face is slightly more beautiful." Fionn said
"And I'm just a creepy Hedgehog for others... But for some reason, many people wanted female humans for a long time to get a chance with me. That goes for the female Servants. Not only that it's weird... It's irritating... And it only started because of that one incident with me and a female human. One of the darkest moments of my time..." Sonic replied
"That's an interesting story you said there. I don't what to tell you since you currently have Servants that are also trying to get you. All I have to say is... good luck." Romani replied
"..."
"Ugh, so bright! It's like a flood of self-confidence and bragging, isn't it!? Why does it hit me so hard... So this is Fionn mac Cumhaill, the most fulfilled man in all of Erin!" Romani said
"Protector of the peace who has beaten many monsters... He's fit to be called a hero, a great hero. Well, not as great as Senpai here... Fionn had his fair share of problems... Calamities...or more like troubles..." Mash said
"Really?" Sonic asks
"...Uh... Yes. R-Remember what you said how many female humans wanted to date you? That's the opposite for him. You might say he had "lady troubles." Fionn may not be personally responsible, but if what I heard about the Knights of Fianna's downfall is true... it was partly due to his actions. At the very least, that's how the knights portray it. By not saving the life of his reconciled subordinate, Diarmuid, he lost his charisma, and the order collapsed..." Mash explaining
"Hm? What do you speak of, Mash? Have second thoughts about marrying me?" Fionn asks
"N-No, not at all! N-No, not at all!" Mash shouted
"Don't you even think about going forward with that, Fionn..." Sonic said
"Oh? Is that so? Hahaha, "never" is so harsh!" Fionn laughed
"Senpai, keep this between us, okay? Fionn knows about the Order's collapse in his memories, but...he doesn't feel like part of it. Like when we met Alexander before. Not the King of Conquerors of his later years, but the boy. I think this is similar. He's been summoned in his young form. That's why..." Mash thought
"I see. So, he's aware of his later failures, but feels like they happened to someone else, right?" Romani thought
"Yes, Doctor."
"What are you whispering about... Oh, I see. Rumours about me? Is that it? No need to bite my thumbs. I already know. Mash... You've fallen in love with me. Sorry about that." Fionn said
"!?"
"Even though she said she'd never, like, 5 seconds ago!?" Romani thought
"Fo, fou!?"
"I am aware of it. Of how I'm almost way too beautiful. This face, this physique. It must almost be cruel to you Mash... Thus my fate, namely– My lady troubles! My never-ending assault of lady troubles! Yes, I need only stand still, and noble ladies will propose to me. I even once received a twin love confession from a lovely pair of witch sisters." Fionn said
"T-Twin confession! Do things like that actually happen in real life!? I'm beyond envious... I don't know about you as a person, but you shine so brightly as a man, Fionn mac Cumhaill..." Romani shock
"Fou?!"
"My most beloved person, the treasure of Erin... My first wife, to be specific... Yes. How she and I loved each other... It was so instant and eternal... That it made an evil fairy start stalking me like an idiot! Oh, this is all part of my destiny of endless lady troubles! Oh, however, I don't want to put the blame on you ladies. It's fate, and so nothing can be done. Overflowing beauty can drive a woman mad, at times. I'm just...too beautiful..." Fionn said
Moments later, Sonic headbutts Fionn's stomach and knocks him to the ground. Mash and Romani's eyes widen from the sudden attack.
"Are you done yet?" Sonic said
"Hahaha... Nonsense Blue. Don't take these things personally to you." Fionn replied
"...Fionn seems to think the source of all his troubles is always from elsewhere. He's right, in a sense... But that's... No." Mash said
"Fou, fooou."
"Right, Fou. Just a bit... He doesn't seem fully satisfied..." Mash said
"I'm terribly dissatisfied! Why do popular guys get even more popular? Look at Sonic! W-Well, never mind. Anyway, why did we come here all the way to the 1st century? To the Ancient Roman era that's under correction, and heading out specifically to Gaul..." Romani asks
"I don't have actual business in Gaul. I sensed danger in Erin and my feet led me here." Fionn replied
"Erin... Ireland? Oh, I see. You didn't come to Gaul. You're trying to get closer to Ireland." Romani said
"Right, and I guess I was on the spot. They seem to have sensed our approach, and they're coming out to greet us." Fionn said
"Guuuu!"
"Detecting hostile presences! Senpai, here they come..." Mash said
"Don't worry Mash, I got this," Sonic replied
The Red Wisp appears and enters Sonic's stomach, transforming into the Burst form before flying towards the group of werewolves. The werewolves notice Sonic heading toward them as one of them attempts to attack Sonic. The werewolf slashes its axe down at Sonic but was melted before the werewolf could even use it. Sonic then begins to charge up into a glowing ball and lets out a huge explosion, incinerating the werewolves and burning down the forest in the process. Moments later, the three notice more werewolves heading their way.
"Does he get this angry?" Fionn asks
"No... That's just how that from works." Mash replied,
"looks like you found the next wave I was about to tell you..." Romani said
Sonic fly towards the second wave of werewolves and giant arm enemy as he charges up once again. After what the werewolves saw happened with the first wave, the group panicked and began to attempt to flee. However, Sonic wasn't allowing it as he explodes yet again and incinerates the second wave of the werewolves. As well as destroying more parts of the forest. Mash sighs after seeing everything while Fionn was confused about whether Sonic was angry or not. Moments later, Sonic returns to three and returns to his original blue form.
"...Hm. So I guess that's all of them. You made it through the fight unharmed. The disturbance I felt is now gone. For the cost of the surroundings." Fionn said
"That giant hand... Was that the danger you sensed?" Mash asks
"Oh, yeah. Well, I guess it turned out to be that." Fionn replied
"That was an unknown enemy we've met multiple times. We have no accurate data on it... But you talked as if you knew something about it. Is it possible...you have some idea?" Mash said
"I'd like to hear it, too. Yeah... You definitely sounded like you know something" Romani said
"..."
"Wait, he's ignoring me? He's ignoring what I say?" Romani said
"Please, Fionn. If you know anything, please don't hide it..." Mash begged
"...How can I keep my mouth shut when such a lovely lady looks at me with such passion," Fionn said
"Right, so...that's how it is... He really is ignoring me.." Romani said
"Fou, foou..."
"That said, this is just a hunch. I don't have enough evidence right now. As captain of the glorious Knights of Fianna, I can't afford to make an unsightly mistake in front of a lady. So, could you give me some time? When I have solid proof, I'll most definitely tell you." Fionn replied
"...Senpai."
"*Sighs* Looks like we have to wait for that," Sonic replied
"...I see. I understand, Fionn."
"Now, with the power of my Noble Phantasm of wisdom, "Fintan Finegas"..." we'd solve any riddle instantly, we'd solve any riddle instantly?" Fionn said
"Boring?! If it'll tell us everything, then use it, please? If it'll tell us everything, then use it, please?" Romani begged
"Hah hah hah. I'd say he probably set up some countermeasures so it can't be easily predicted. The same goes for that giant hand." Fionn replied
"Ugh... Fine, b-but what's with the name of your Noble Phantasm!"
"Anyways, Mash. May I ask something?" Fionn completely ignores Romani
"Sure. What is it?"
"I did ask you to wait, but there are things that we can talk about without waiting. So, let's go to My Room and discuss this in detail. You're curious about me, too, right." Fionn asks
"That room is not yours, is it?" Sonic said
"...Right. Okay, Sonic can come, too. That's fine by me!" Fionn said
'W-Wait!"
"Man, he's full of energy. Still, I'd like to learn a thing or two from him, too..."
"Fou..."
Interlude XIII
Treasure Island
"Hey, you're here Captain... I mean Sonic. We see each other all the time, but talking to you like this feels like old times, somehow." Francis Drake said
"Me too, Captain. I'm sure Senpai feels the same way." Mash said
"Well, obviously you two! We're best friends here and I can't be happier than that." Sonic replied
"That's right. Although it's like our voyage with Captain Drake never happened, we still remember it clearly.": Romani said
"I don't remember it at all. When Mash says "I'm happy to see you again," I have no idea what she means. But still, I get all weepy thinking "yeah, there was that," so you must be telling the truth." Francis Drake said
"Fou..."
"Aww, enough with the mushy stuff. I came here to talk about something fun!" Francis Drake said
"Is this an attempt to steal the Chaos Emeralds from me?" Sonic asks
"Not this time. I'll deal with that later." Francis Drake replied
"...Is this fun of yours about making money?" Sonic said
"That's right! I may be out of the pirate business, but I've still got my sea legs, Captain! I heard something interesting! A story about an island with buried treasure. How about it? Want to go have some fun? The more of these, the better, right?" Francis Drake replied
"These? Senpai, why is Captain Drake doing this thing with her index finger and thumb?" Mash asks
"I have no idea either if I'm being honest," Sonic replied
"Haha! Don't worry about it, Mash. I like the sound of the word treasure island! Adventure awaits! Sonic, let's take Captain Drake up on her kind offer. So, Captain, which sea, in particular, is this treasure island?" Romani asks
"Hmm? Um, let me see... The Bermuda... Something? Triangle, maybe?" Francis Drake replied
"...What did you say?"
*The Four Soon Travel There Way Through The Bermuda Triangle To Get To Their Next Destination*
*Later*
"T-That was... Awful... I've never seen a storm like that..." Mash said
"Yeah? That was nothing bad... The ship only flew up in the air twice, right?"
"Ships aren't supposed to fly up in the air, Captain... I got seasick watching it on the monitor. How bad is it..." Romani said
"Does it matter? We made it to the island. And we're the first ones here." Francis Drake replied
"I have been through worse than that storm," Sonic commented
"FUoooooooOOOOOOo!"
"These look like the monsters that live on this island!" Mash said
"Now this is what I call an adventure! I got nothing against you, but if you're in my way, I'll take you on!"
"Hmmm... *Pulls Out Green Chaos Emerald* Chaos Control..." Sonic whispers
The Chaos Emerald begins to emit light, glowing brother and brighter until time stops around Sonic, Mash, and Francis. Mash and Francis notice the Chimeras frozen and not moving an inch.
"Umm... Hey Francis. Would you care for some target practice?" Sonic asks
"Hmm..."
Francis pulls out her pistols and fires multiple shots at the Chimeras. Although she fired her pistols at the CHimeras, the bullets were frozen in time as well. Francis continues firing her pistols until stopping and giving Sonic a thumbs up. Moments later, time unfreezes itself and everything began moving once again. Moments later, the bullets all flew at the Chimeras and hits them all, causing massive damage but not killing them.
"Get out of my way if you want to survive! If you win, we're your dinner! If we win, you're finished! If you're okay with that, then come at me!" Francis Drake said
The Chimeras roared as they all began running away from the three.
"Looks like we won..." Sonic said
"...It was very nice of you to let the monsters run away like that, Captain," Mash said
"Huh? I didn't save them. I just didn't want to kill too many and hurt this island's ecosystem. We'll be rich if these pelts go for a high price back on land. Then, it'll be our loss if none of them are left, right?" Francis said
"I-I see... Ahaha... That's right, this is the kind of person Captain Drake is..."
"Everybody, I think there's a cave over there. But I'm picking up a weird reading. Be careful if you go in." Romani said
"It's nice to have a scout. Okay, let's be careful on our way in then." Francis replied
"I don't have hopes for this..." Sonic said
*Inside The Cave*
The four make their way into the cave where discover a room full of treasure.
"Man, we hit the jackpot. Man, we hit the jackpot. It probably belonged to pirates who lived in this area. The treasure's still here, so of course..."
""▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—!"
"There's a guard. Captain Drake, can we defeat it?" Mash said
"Go ahead. I don't see traps that'll blow up the treasure. Have fun!" Francis said
"Fine with me," Sonic said
The Red Wisp appears and enters Sonic's body, transforming him into his Burst form. Sonic then flies towards the group of guards and creates a firey vortex.
"Well, that was a fast fight. You didn't even need to try..." Francis said
"I'm just built differently... Seriously..." Sonic replied
"Well then, let's get that treasure..."
"*Suddenly Appears* Yar! I see the old hag's here too! I see ya still got those needlessly huge knockers! Bwaha!" Teach said
"—Geh"
"—Geh"
"Oh, it's not the real Teach... He would've told me something off by now." Sonic thought
"Arrr! But that cutie next to ya is just my type! Must be fate that brought us together here... I guess the goddess loves this boy after all!" Teach said
"Senpai, no, Master Sonic. Burn that enemy to ash!" Mash shouted
"What is that thing? WHAT IS THAT THING!? I've never seen anything so creepy!" Francis shouted
"Bwahahahaah! The old hag's blushin' again, ain't she!? I understand your shock, see. I ain't no ordinary Teach right now. A phantom of the love hunter, brought here by the space-time scrambling in this area... I'm a copy of him. I have double the power, double the power, AND double the power I normally got! I'm a Super Servant!" Teach explaining
"So basically you're just twice as strong as usual," Romani said
"Ho-ho-ho! Your words hurt me! But it feels so good! Come on, old hag! This time, those cups of yers are mine!" Teach said
"Cups!? I don't have any cups!" Francis replied
"Master!"
"Glad I'm still in the Burst form still..." Sonic thought
Sonic flies toward Teach at high speed and creates a fiery vortex around him. Teach attempts to throw a punch at Sonic but couldn't land a single hit on him. Over and over, Teach attempts to throw a punch at Sonic but Sonic was faster and evaded them easily. Moments later, the heat of the vortex increased as Teach begins to sweat profusely and couldn't move because of the heat. The vortex continues to increase to the point where Teach is engulfed in flames. Moments later, the vortex explodes violently, sending Teach to the wall of the cave, hitting it and falling to the ground soon while engulfed in flames as well. Teach yelled in pain as the extreme heat he never felt before burned him alive. Moments later, Francis aims her pistol at Teach and fires at teaching, hitting and throwing him back to the wall and falling again. Sonic then returns to Mash and Francis, returning to his normal blue form soon after.
"I lost... Again... LOL Can't help it, can I? I'm just a ghost..." Teach said before disappearing
"Well, that was something..." Sonic said
"What on Earth was that? Okay, I'm forgetting it. The best thing to do is just forget it. Anyway, onto the treasure... Oh, this looks great... Ores, jewels, antiques! Stuff that's easy to sell, and holds its value! You grab some stuff too, Sonic! Let's enjoy these spoils together!" Francis looking through the treasure
"I'll pass, besides... There's no sign of another Chaos Emerald around here. However, my good friend Rogue would've gone insane if she ever discovered this." Sonic replied
"Oh don't be a fuss. Come on, get something you like." Francis said
"*Sigh* Okay fine... *Grab Only 1 Coin And Flips It* Alright... just got one coin, let's get going," Sonic replied
*A Couple Minutes Later*
"Okay, that's all the good stuff. Let's go." Francis said
"That looks fair," Sonic said
"Captain, there's still more antiques left," Mash said
"Leave'em. We don't have a lot of people, and there's no point in being greedy. Just look at Sonic, he isn't greedy at all when it comes to treasure. But I did forget one thing... *Creates A Mark* Okay, there we go."
"You made a mark inside the chest? Captain Drake, what was that for?" Romani asks
"I drew a golden deer. To show I was here first. Any dumb pirate who opens this up after me will say. "Curse ye, Golden Hind!" And my reputation will keep spreading." Francis replied
"A deer... A golden deer?" Mash said
"At least the golden deer isn't upside down," Sonic commented
"Come on, let's go Sonic. Let's get back to land and throw a big party!" Francis said
"Y-Yeah, if you say so, Captain. Come on, let's go Sonic. You're right, there's no point in staying. Who knows when another pirate will come. Let's just enjoy what the Captain got for us this time." Romani said
"Right. Let's go to a bar and hear Captain Drake sing." Mash said
Interlude XIV
Nostalgic Merrits
Caesar's army roared, raising their weapons for their leader.
"So nostalgic. It's easy to end with just that one phrase, but I don't do that. Do you know why?" Caesar asks
"Not really.." Sonic replied
"Right Senpai, I don't understand his ideas either," Mash said
"Fou..."
"I achieved valour in Gaul and Britannia. I achieved valour in Gaul and Britannia. I guess you could say that I was young. But, that was not all. I escaped. It felt slightly better to preoccupy myself with service by the sword than the schemes surging through Rome. Betrayal for betrayal, conspiracy for conspiracy. It's easy for me to climb the ladder of power as such. After all... I am a descendant of the goddess of love and beauty and a man who fathered a child with a female fairy. My beauty makes women fall into my hands at will. Add in my intelligence and I'm the best at scheming. But..." Caesar said
"..."
"You gotta be kidding..." Sonic commented
"Fou."
"Actually, scheming takes quite a bit of courage. At first, you feel nothing, but gradually. Gradually. While I bite into juicy grapes, while I fool around with women, political enemies die off by my schemes... But when it's being repeated over and over, you start to feel sick, as if something's been tainted. That is why, at times, I escaped to the battlefield" Caesar said
"...I now finally understand. You seek to settle all the escaping you did right here and right now." Mash said
"That's right. I–wait, enemies. They must have noticed us." Caesar said
"Enemy signatures are approaching! Are these like, remnants of the United Empire army? Rome should be correcting itself now, so why are there United Empire soldiers still left?" Romani confuse
"I'll tell you later. Before that Sonic, hurry up and use your speed. I will take command of you. I am a great commander." Caesar said
"You're a Servant and a Saber Class. And you're hanging back?" Sonic asks
"Saber, right, Saber. Saber. By rights, I shouldn't even be in the Saber class. ...I only unsheathe my sword when I'm next to beauty." Caesar replied
"Why look at me..." Mash said
"Not knowing your own beauty is equal to a crime, yes? Well anyways, I shall unsheathe my sword."
"Let me just handle this real quick," Sonic said
Sonic moves his legs in a pattern similar to the infinity symbol, building up speed and dashing toward the Roman Soldiers while coated in a blue aura. Caesar and Mash watch as Sonic dashes around the battlefield, taking down many Soldiers on his own in just a few seconds. The enemy soldiers couldn't attack Sonic as he sped off before they even had a chance to see him. A few seconds later, all the enemies were defeated and Sonic returns back to Mash and Caesar wiping his gloves and winking at them.
"Too easy!" Sonic said
"Good work, Master!" Mash said
"If you were here while I was alive. I could've recruited you and become my highest general!" Caesar said
"I appreciate the offer, but I'll pass," Sonic replied
"Wielding a sword like this gets me fired up with nostalgia. Though, swordfights are the epitome of nuisances. I seem to be escaping even now that I am a Heroic Spirit. How pathetic!" Caesar said
"What's gotten into you, Caesar?" Sonic asks
"Yes, Senpai's question is legitimate. Caesar, what is upsetting you? You are already a Heroic Spirit, unrelated to the bloodstained schemes of ancient Rome. And still... You end up returning to Rome with us, why?" Mash asks
"I've said it many times. It is to escape. To put it nicely, it's to settle things. Oh, it also answers this Doctor guy's question." Caesar replied
"You mean these United Empire remnants? For some reason, they're still around... Whoa, another enemy attack as we speak! Is this area under the United Empire's influence?" Romani said
"Right."
"Master!" Mash shouted
"On it!"
Sonic repeats the process once again and dashes at the Soldiers and Golems coated in a blue aura.
"Another battle complete. Thanks to Master. Soldiers perceived as United Empire are retreating." Mash said
"After them. If they're headed home, it'll save us the trouble of searching." Caesar said
"Search/ Search for what.."
"I'll go on ahead." Caesar running
"Please wait... Oh, h-he's fast!" Mash surprise
"Hmph... You call that fast?"
"You guys should chase them, too! I don't know what he'll do, but you can't abandon him!" Romani said
"Yes."
"Alright, let's go!"
Moments later, Sonic and Mash both dash away, passing Caesar in an instance.
*Later*
Sonic and Mash soon make their next destination in under a couple of seconds. They waited a few minutes until Caesar can arrive as well.
"At least wait for me!" Caesar said
"Sorry, we got a little carried once you started running," Sonic replied
The three notice a Shadow Servant similar to Caesar himself.
"...I am a distinguished general of Rome. I'm the general that conquered Gaul and made a successful expedition to Britannia. I slaughtered the great general Pompey. I'm the only ruler of Rome, the origin of its Emperor. I danced within the cruelty of Rome, and also danced on the battlefield. I shall continue fighting. As long as Rome exists, my dance continues." The Shadow Servant said
"No, that horrible dance ends here. This is the end of your escapism. This is the end of your escapism. That is quite absurd. You are merely escaping! You pig! You could not grant the wish of the one woman you loved, and you chose not to name your loving child as your heir!" Caesar replied
"I am! I am Caesar! The origin of all Roman Emperors!"
"That's right, you are me! My unsightly half that still clings onto Rome!"
"I see, I get it now! Residual effects of the Second Holy Grail are what "that" is! So that's why it's leading the United Empire remnants. In other words, "that" is like Caesar's shadow! He sensed its presence, and guided you guys all the way here..." Romani said
"I mean... He could've said something before." Sonic said
"...Yes." Mash said
"I apologize my friends. I'd like to defeat my ugly escapism half right here. ...No, I want to return it to myself. Lend me your powers." Caesar said
"You got it!" Sonic replied
"Yes, Senpai!"
"I am! I am Caesar! I am!"
"Shut up, you pig! Such ugliness will scatter like flower petals before my beauty!" Caesar shouted
Using the Chaos Energy inside his body, a green aura flows around Caesar as his eyes turned green as well. Caesar charges at the Shadow Servant and swings his sword at the Shadow Servant with his sword that was powered by Chaos Energy. The Shadow Servant attempts to block the attacks but Caesar under Chaos Energy was more powerful and got hit more. Caesar continues to swing his sword at the Shadow Servant and finishes it by stabbing the Shadow Servant and punching it away from him. The Shadow Servant stops himself from going further away and charges at Caesar soon after. The Shadow Servant then swings his sword at Caesar but Caesar dodges each swing easily and without trying. Moments later, Caesar counters back by stabbing his sword through the Shadow Servants' heart, taking his sword out and clicking off its head before falling and rolling on the ground, vanishing away soon after.
"...Begone my foolish past," Caesar said as Chaos Energy from him dies down
"Confirming zero response. Battle's Over, Senpai."
"Fou..."
"Glad Chaos Energy is being put to good use," Sonic said
"Whew, I'm tired. Indeed, I am not fit to fight at the front line. Let us hurry back to this Chaldea and rest. I won't move one step further." Caesar said
"Thanks for your hard work, Caesar," Sonic said
"And Senpai means it. Senpai, Doctor, please start the return process to Chaldea." Mash said
"Fou!"
"Yes, yes, return– Hmm? Looks like Caesar's magical capacity has increased? After defeating his own shadow, he absorbed it as his own magical energy I guess?" Romani said
"Fou, Fou!"
"Yes, yes, the return process. You don't have to rush me so much..." Caesar said
Interlude XV
Old Man of the Mountain
"A...kidnapper?" Mash asks
"Well, there have been many incidents of child abduction in this town recently. So a request for an investigation came to us from Emperor Nero." Romani said
"I see. In that case, I am willing to offer my cooperation. By the way, have you found any clues?" Mash replied
"It's a quite cunning group so the Emperor's men haven't been able to track them," Romani said
"If we don't know the location of their base, then there's not much we can do..."
"So, that's why you were selected among many, Sonic. We have a professional in that field. It's up to you, "Old Man of the Mountain." Romani said
"...Hassan-i Sabbah, reporting," Hassan said
"Oh hey there Hassan," Sonic said
"Master, I've already tracked them down. No matter how cunning they are in covering their tracks, they can't trick the eyes of the Assassin class Heroic Spirits." Hassan replied
"Nice job, Hassan!" Sonic said
"Excellent. I'm worried about the children, Senpai! Let's hurry!" Mash said
*Later*
The three enter the forest where they located the kidnapper.
"What!? How'd you bastards find us here?!"
"...Ha! You're a joke. Confidence in that level of hiding... You're third-rate bandits at best. Get a life, or change your ways right here. Lucky for you, this Master is the kindest I've ever had the pleasure to meet. Surrender and you won't be hurt." Hassan said
"Huh. Don't be cocky, bonehead! Get them, guys!"
"Hey Mash, do you have the rope I borrowed back at the Capital?" Sonic asks
"I sure do. *Hands The Ropes To Sonic*" Mash said
"Alright..."
Sonic dashes towards the Kidnapper and his men, running around each Kidnapper and tying them up one by one as they all fall to the ground tied up. The Kidnappers weren't fast enough to attack Sonic as he quickly ties the men with no effort. Soon after, Sonic returns to Hassan and Mash once tying up each Kidnapper.
"That will teach you guys a lesson," Sonic said
"Good job Master, they didn't expect a Hedgehog to defeat them very easily," Mash said
"I don't see any children...Their headquarters is somewhere else? I will guide you there, Master. The cornered enemy may be dangerous. ...Hurry!" Hassan said
"Don't need to tell me twice," Sonic replied
*A Couple Minutes Later*
Sonic, Hassan, and Mash enter a cave where they quickly notice the kidnapped children
"Wahhhh...I want to go home..."
"Hey, walk straight, stupid brats! You better stop crying! What's the problem? We're gonna feed all you hungry rascals that have nothing to live on. Let's do our best to get along, huh? I'll raise you all to be proper assassins!"
"I don't think will happen," Sonic said
"..."
"That's enough! Free the children!" Mash shouted
"Damn! Don't get cocky! Slaughter them all!"
"Master!"
"On it!"
Sonic then runs super fast around the Kidnappers, creating a small dust storm that picks up the Kidnappers and takes them deeper
"You make these fights very easy, Senpai. You are the only one left. Please surrender." Mash said
"D-Damn! In that case... Hey, can't you see this right here?!"
"Waaaaaah!"
"Hostage?! How foul!" Mash shouted
"How can you do this!" Sonic shouted
"Oh, shout as you please! See ya...! Hey! Let's go!"
The fire on the torch suddenly is blown out the cave is now filled with darkness,
"What!? The torch is out...?1"
"Zabaniya..."
Moments later, Hassan slashes the kidnapper as blood spews out everywhere.
"G-Gah..."
"Foolish. All too foolish. I do not mean using a child as a shield, or kidnapping children. Nothing is as foolish as the one who cannot even measure talent trying to raise an assassin. That child is unfit to be a killer. Such incompetence bringing children to this place... You are no longer worthy of living. Disappear into the eternal darkness." Hassan said
"Wait, Hassan! There were better options!" Sonic shouted
"Hassan!" Mash shouted
"Wahhhh! That was scary!"
"*Pats The Child's Shoulder* There, there, everything has passed and you have nothing to worry about anymore," Sonic said
"...Mister?"
"... Mission accomplished, Master. So I will depart now." Hassan walking away
"Don't worry, I'll follow you." Sonic following Hassan
"Hassan...Was he a bit reluctant about the request this time...?" Mash said
"Well, in a way he's a Servant too similar with those bandits just now... Our idea of helping people and his idea of helping people may perhaps be different." Romani said
"Um, Miss. Are you friends with that mister and talking animal just now?"
"Y-Yes. For Blue... He's like a best friend. For Hassan... He's like a...friend." Mash replied
"Then, give them my thanks. Tell them to thank you, white-faced mister and talking animal. I don't know how to describe it but that guy...seemed to be really, really angry for me..."
"Sure, got it. I will definitely tell them."
*Chaldea*
"Ah, Sonic, Emperor Nero wanted to express her thanks for the other day. I'll put her through." Romani said
"Ohhh! Master! You did great the other day. Praiseworthy!" Nero congratulating Sonic
"It was thanks to the power of teamwork with us three," Sonic replied
"Umu, this Hassan fellow has been really helpful! Since then, he's been catching bandits and kidnappers for me every day. Thanks to him, the crime rate of my beloved Rome has bottomed out! I'm thrilled!" Nero said
"Huh?! Every day since then?!"
"Come to think of it, I haven't seen Hassan since then. Perhaps he's been hunting criminals..." Mash said
"Beats me, you know... Maybe Hassan is a good guy at heart... And shows even more of his Master's positive energy flowing through his own body." Romani replied
Interlude XVI
Leonidas Boot Camp
"Master! I know it's sudden, but let's train." Leonidas said
"Alright! Sounds good to me! What training exercise are you thinking of?" Sonic asks
"Improve your strength and endurance!" Leonidas replied
"Easy! I've taken out enemies larger than me," Sonic said
*Few Minutes*
"This is a mock battlefield. Um...Senpai, are you sure about this?" Mash asks
"Of course I am. They don't call me Sonic for nothing." Sonic replied
"Great confidence from you, Master! Now let's start!" Leonidas said
"You got it!" Sonic replied
Sonic dashes toward the Fake Servant curls into a ball and spins dashes at them at high speed, hitting them in the face and pushing them a few meters behind. Sonic soon turns around and spins dashes at the Fake Servant again from behind, hitting them in the back and knocking them to the ground. Sonic land's on the ground as he performs a Somersault at the Servant and throws them to the air, jumping at them and performing a backwards roundhouse kick, throwing the Servant towards Leonidas. Leonidas roars as he charges at the Servant and slashes them several times
"*Cleaning His Gloves* Is that all?" Sonic said
"Asking for more huh? I see. Let's continue!" Leonidas shouted
"OK. I will summon your next opponent." Mash said
"Bring it on!"
"Hmm, something's not right. Let's see... *A Giant Servant Appears* Wh-What's going on..."
"Ah. Rejoice, Master! It seems like our latest arrival is literally brimming with muscles!" Leonidas said
"I've seen bigger," Sonic replied
"There's been a malfunction! We seem to have accidentally summoned something that we shouldn't have! Master, retreat immediately!" Mash shouted
"Relax, Mash. I got this." Sonic replied
"Your confidence is making me stronger! Let's do this!"
The Red Wisp appears, and enters Sonic's stomach, transforming into his Burst form. Sonic flies towards the Servant and begins to charge up in a glowing fireball. The Fake Servant lunges toward Sonic and swings their giant sword at Sonic but as soon the sword makes contact with the glowing ball, it melts the sword and liquid falls to the ground. Moments later, Sonic explodes and causes massive damage to the giant Servant, being pushed back from the huge explosion and its shockwave.
"Ah, what a fine battle!" Leonidas said
"All adjustments complete. The final enemy has been set. What do you want to do? I think it's fair to conclude that training is over for today..." Mash said
"Not yet! We must follow this through to the end. On to the next enemy!" Leonidas commanded
"Understood. The final opponent is a random enemy."
"...Um, Miss Mash. Just what is that, exactly? Is it that, uh, you know. I think it starts with a "G." Leonidas confused
"Yes, it's a Ghost-type enemy," Mash replied
"Ghost...collective consciousness...science!"
"Leonidas? You seem to be sweating quite a lot..." Mash commented
"What? No, not at all! I'm doing fine here. Just might not think so, but I once took on 100,000 men!
A mere spirit devoid of muscles is nothing to fear... I apologize, Master! I confess I don't know how to deal with ghosts! You see, my muscles are useless against them! They seem smarter than me!" Leonidas said
"Don't worry pal, I got this," Sonic replied
"You're not intimidated by them?" Leonidas said
"Of course not, I fought a few ghosts in my life before," Sonic replied
"..."
"Just sit back and watch the show. Besides, your watching me train aren't you?" Sonic said
Sonic dashes toward the group of ghosts and creates a vortex that sucks in the ghosts. The ghosts inside the vortex smash one another, not being able to control themselves without being spun around in circles. Leonidas and Mash watch as the vortex continues to go faster and faster until eventually exploding and launching the ghosts straight into the sky and out of the Earth's atmosphere, never to come down again. However, one ghost manages to survive and Sonic quickly kicks the ghost toward Leonidas.
"It's all yours..." Sonic said
"...Hmph..."
Leonidas rushes toward the incoming ghost and violently swings his spear at it while shouting at the top of his lungs. Sonic and Mash watch as Leonidas completely destroys the ghost with his attacks before swinging more and throwing it far from it, vanishing soon after.
"..."
"..."
"Huff, huff, huff... What a powerful enemy...Contact with a ghost chills you to the bone. I just learned something... Thank you, Master! I was able to overcome the ghost with your help. I swear to safeguard you from all enemies, to stave off despair, and to always bring you victory!" Leonidas said
"Y-yea... thanks," Sonic replied
Interlude XVII
Tiger and Wolf... Not Really
"Foou..."
"Make yourself comfortable, Senpai. Here's your coffee." Mash said
"Don't worry about me, Mash. You should rest yourself." Sonic replied
"Well...about that... There's something the Doctor wants to talk to you about, Senpai."
"Sorry to bother you so late. And, as to what I need to talk to you about..." Romani said
"..."
"It's him! Him! Berserker! Don't you think it's a bit odd having a Berserker for a guard?" Romani said
"He just wanted to come here for a little peaceful time. I'm not asking him to be a guard for me." Sonic replied
"Well, think about it... A Berserker is a Servant that has lost its reason, so in a way, they can be said to be the most loyal. However, this Berserker is different. Even you have heard of his tales, right? He is known by numerous titles, such as "Unrivaled," "Flying General" and "Lu Bu the Peerless," but he betrayed so many people and became so detested, that people called him..."Tiger and Wolf" ...just so you know. What I'm trying to say is, that it's not good to have him as your guard. It's dangerous, Sonic..." Romani said
"As I said... he's no bodyguard. Just as alone as both Mash and I," Sonic replied
"..."
"Yikes! Was he just glaring at me?"
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—!"
"I knew it! P-Please, forgive me! ...Huh? What the?"
"Fou!"
"Wait, this is... Master, enemy attack!"
"Nice job spotting them Lu Bu," Sonic said
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—!"
"Allow me to the job. Show Roman that you aren't my bodyguard." Sonic said
Sonic grabs several ropes next to him and dashes toward the enemy Soldiers. One by one Sonic uses the rope to tie each Soidler up and pile them all up on top of each other. Sonic soon returns to Lu Bu and Mash.
"I'm getting a reading from behind!" Romani shouted
"On it!"
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—!"
Sonic again dashes away
"See? I'm a Master and I'm still able to fight for myself. I don't need anyone else to protect me. I got it handle under control." Sonic said
"▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅▅—!"
"Lu Bu... sometimes, killing isn't always the answer. Remember that." Sonic said
"..."
"..."
"In some alternative universe, The Master would've told Lu Bu to fight for them," Romani said
"..."
"Anyway, Come to think of it, "Lu Bu Fengxian," he sacrificed his life for a woman. At least there're more than tales of betrayal about him... Anyway, I wonder which is his true self..." Romani said
"His true self..."
"..."
Interlude XVIII
Queen of Lily and Emperor of Rose
"All together! Vive La France!" Marie said
"Fou, foou!"
"Vive La Fra–nce!" Romani said
"Vive La France!"
"Fou, fou-foou!"
"Vive La Fra–nce! Marie!" Romani said
"Can anyone tell me what the heck is going on?" Sonic confuse
"...Um, well... When you summoned Marie to Chaldea. Doctor said he wanted her for something–important, I thought it might have something to do with repairing the singularities, but... I never thought that "something important" was telling her he's a big fan. But..." Mash said
"Ready, go... Vive La France!" Marie said
"Fou, fou-foou..."
"Vive La Fra–nce! Marie, you're the greatest"
"They are having so much fun, so I'm going to leave them alone for a while," Mash said
"This is something I wouldn't see back in my world," Sonic commented
"Vive La France!"
"Fou, fou-foou!"
"Vive La Fra–nce! Marie!" Romani said
"..."
"Okay, now we're getting excited. But it would be better with more people. Hey, Doctor. Is there a place we can go with more energy and people?" Marie asks
"Of course! The Second Singularity, the repairing Rome! There shouldn't be any enemy Servants, so I can guide you there safely!" Romani replied
"Huh? S-Senpai, the Doctor's saying that..." Mash said
"We're going back to Rome," Sonic said
"Fooou!"
"Okay! I'll get the Rayshift system ready right away!" Romani said
Sonic, Marie, Mash, and Fou soon teleport to Rome.
*Rome, At Thee Capital*
"Glad to see everyone is doing better," Sonic said
"My, what a wonderful place... So this is the ancient Roman Empire, the land that all the nobles of Europe dreamed of. The buildings are splendid, and they're so many people! And look at all these smiles! This is a great place! Thank you for bringing me here, Doctor." Marie said
"Not at all. Anything for you, Queen Marie. But there was one mistake I made... You need an operator to perform the Rayshift, which means I have to stay behind... This is the biggest mistake of my life." Romani replied
"Fou, fou-fou..."
"The wars have ended and everyone's full of energy. I'm glad..."
"That everything is all peaceful again?" Sonic said
"Yea."
"oh?"
"Fou?"
"Oh? Oh? I see a splendid palace over there. It's different than the ones in my era. The town and palace are both different. I'd like to see what's inside. Hehe, let's go take a look!" Marie said
"Fooou!"
"Come along, Fou. Let's take a tour inside that palace. *Begins To Walk Away.*"
"Huh? ...Um, um, Senpai? Marie is heading further and further away. Let's go after her!" Mash said
*Inside The Palace*
"Hmm, so this is how it looks. It looks elegant, but it's also sturdy and strong. I feel the strength within the beauty. Perhaps it comes from the trust and pride toward this country's culture." Marie looking around the palace
"You said it yourself, Marie," Sonic said
"W-We finally caught up... I can't believe she just walked right inside the palace." Mash said
"Don't worry, we did the same thing as well. Only this time we just dashed our way through the entrance." Sonic replied
"... A-Anyway... She passed by the palace guards with just a smile... She has a noble aura, you could say... Like she belongs in any palace. Her words, her expression, even her smallest movements, they're all so noble that even I might. If I were a palace guard, I might let her in too." Mash said
"She truly is the last queen of France... Amazing...just amazing. I wish I could have seen her walking through the real Versailles Palace, and smiling by the fountains... If one of the singularities turns out to be 18th century France, maybe I'll get the chance... But sadly, the Rayshift system won't let us travel to any location except the singularities. If only all the other eras hadn't been incinerated...sob..." Romani said
"Huh? What's this over here? Is it a throne? An ancient Roman throne! How wonderful! Come here, Fou. We'll look at it together!" Marie said
"Fou, foou!"
"Those two have an unbreakable friendship," Sonic said
"Oh..."
"Come on, let's go follow her," Sonic said
"Right, Senpai! We'll follow her! Oh, she's surprisingly fast!" Mash replied
*A Couple Minutes Later*
Nero stares at Marie, confuse since she has never seen someone like Marie before.
"Umu. Are you a foreign royal? I sense an intense royal aura about you, though it does not rival my own. For you to come before my throne, you must be. Umu, I shall allow it. But where are you from? Seneca said nothing about an audience..." Nero said
"Nice to meet you, Emperor. I am Marie." Marie introducing herself
"Umu. I am Emperor Nero Claudius." Nero replied
"Oops! We ran into Nero!" Mash thought
"Marie the White Lily Queen, and Nero the Rose Emperor! What a picture! Save an image, Mash!" Romani thought
"R-Right now is not the time! Mash thought
"Um, I have a favour to ask of you. May I speak?" Marie said
"What royal family are you from, again... What royal family are you from, again?" Nero asks
"*Points At The Chair* That throne..."
"I'd like to sit on the throne of the ancient Roman emperors!" Marie said
"Fou!"
"Wha..."
"Y-You say you want my throne? Does that mean–you want to become Emperor?" Nero confuse
"?"
"I don't know what family you're from, but you are indeed a bold rebel Very well! I see I must show you what I'm capable of! I shall allow it! Pick up your sword! If you truly want the throne, seize it by force! We emperors have ruled Rome since the time of Romulus! You who oppose us, behold the might of the Emperor!" Nero said
"Oh boy..." Sonic said
"W-Wait, Nero... Um, we're not here to fight!"
"And Nero is a human from this time period! There's no way she can fight a Servant!" Mash thought
"Hmm? Have I met you... somewhere before?" Nero said
"Huh... Oh, right. The era is repairing itself, and she's started to forget about us, maybe." Romani said
"No, I remember your name at least. Especially this Blue creature here... Mash and Sonic, was it?" Nero said
"Huh? She remembers and forgets? Maybe she'll remember tomorrow?" Romani said
"You're with Marie, then? Very well! I'll fight you too! Oddly, the headache I've had all day is gone! No one stands a chance against me at full power!" Nero said
"Wait... Huh? What...What's this...?"
"What's wrong, Mash?" Sonic said
"I'm sensing powerful magical energy from Nero! She wasn't a mage in life, though!" Mash replied
"H-Huh? I'm picking it up here too! What is this? It's Servant-class! What's going on!?" Romani shock
"Uh...? Huh? What is it?" Marie confuse
"Ah! Queen Marie has no idea what's happening! We're about to start a duel with Emperor Nero!" Romani said
"Oh, I see... Good luck and do your best, Sonic." Marie said
"You're just making us do it?" Mash shock
"Let's begin! May the thunderous applause echo here!" Nero shouted
"There's no stopping her now! Commencing battle-"
"*Raises His Arm As The Green Chaos Emerald Appears* Chaos Control!" Sonic shouted
The Chaos Emerald emits light as it gets brighter by the second. Moments later, time freezes around Sonic, Mash, and Marie as Nero is stuck with the time and can't move an inch. Sonic walks toward's Nero, grabs her sword from her grip, walks back to Mash and hands her the sword. Mash grabs it as Sonic walks back to Nero and time unfreezes once again. Seconds later, Nero notices Sonic in front and swings her arm at Sonic. Nero was confused for a moment until she looks at her hand and notices that her sword was missing.
"Where's my sword?" Nero confuse
"Hehe... My buddy Mash has it. You should've seen how fast she was, taking your sword away from you. It was insane." Sonic joking
"*Giggling* Yea Senpai," Mash said
"Umu. What does this mean now?"
"Usually for others, they will attack their enemies with their own weapons if they manage to take them from them. But on this occasion, I don't hold a grudge so will call this a tie." Sonic said
Mash throws the sword back at Nero who grabs it from the air, confused after what happened.
"I see. *Looks At Marie* Marie, was it? I apologize but I can't give you the throne. I love your beauty. You have the purity that's lacking in Rome. It would be a shame to pluck such a pretty flower. You can sit on the throne a little later when no one is here. Tonight, we'll have a banquet!" Nero said
"I'm honoured, Emperor! Right, Fou?"
"Fou, fou!"
"Just as you said before, Senpai. Fou really likes her... Anyway, I'm glad we solved this peacefully. All thanks to you, Master." Mash said
"I don't need to see my two best friends fighting each other. I rather just solve things with peace and such. Now then, are you hungry? I could go for some chilli dogs right now." Sonic said
"Oh yes, I could go for something good right now," Mash replied
"I'm so jealous... You guys get to join a banquet, and all I get to do is watch..." Romani said
"Hehe, we'll bring back presents, so don't be sad Doctor," Marie said
"Queen Marie! Oh, Vive La France!"
"Vive La France!"
"Fou fou-foou!"
"Vive La Fra–nce! Marie!"
"Hmm? What's this? I don't know, but I'll join in! Vive La Rome!" Nero said
"Fou fou-fou!"
"..."
"Glad I became friends with you all!" Sonic said
Interlude XIX
The Desired Saint
"..."
"..."
"..."
"Fou..."
"Yes, Fou. But please be quiet for now."
"..."
"What's wrong Martha? You have been like this for a while now." Sonic asks
"Yes, Martha's on edge, isn't she? Ever since we came to this era. There's something wrong in Ancient Rome, in the Second Singularity. It was her... It was Martha who told us that. I assume it's not good news. Could it be related to the dragons again?" Mash said
"If so, then that's odd. Wasn't she all excited about it before?" Romani said
"If this is something personal. Then It's probably best for not us to not get involved." Sonic said
"But the era she lived in before... was the 1st century, wasn't it?" Mash replied
"...Normally. It's normally not possible, because all souls are under God's divine grace. Wandering the Earth, not going to either Heaven or Hell. Such acts are not allowed, I mean, all of the... Original Sins have already..." Martha said
"Martha?"
"The souls... Oh! I detect a magical energy reaction! A large amount, dead ahead! Based on the signature pattern, ghosts are coming, be careful!" Romani said
"Damn," Martha said
"Huh?"
"Damn! A saint said damn? Uh, d-did I say something wrong?" Romani said
"I said it's freaking impossible... And what's with that stupid amount. I thought I said all souls, are under God's divine grace..." Martha replied
"Fou."
"Interesting," Sonic said
"So I didn't imagine it last time. Something's wrong with Martha..." Mash said
"Yes, you're right! You're definitely right! Souls wandering the Earth is normally "not possible!" Sending them back to God's grace, yes. But ghost-type monsters, really? They only exist because of magecraft, they aren't "naturally" generated. In other words, they aren't part of nature. But, hold on, if that's the case then Heroic Spirits..." Romani said
"Ohh, oh, ohhhh..."
"...I told you. This is freaking impossible. Why do they appear before us, especially... before me!" Martha said
"St. Martha's magical energy and chaos energy level is rising! S-Senpai, she's going to unleash her Noble Phantasm!" Mash shock
"Without the Master's order? She's pissed! O-Oh no, Sonic! With Kaiju Tarasque on the rampage, Rome is done for! Get her under control! T-To battle! Get her under control! T-To battle! Eliminate those ghosts as soon as you can! Is that clear?" Romani said
"Let's do this!" Sonic replied
Eletricalcy emits from Sonic's body and dashes towards the army of ghosts. The ghost's army begin charging toward Sonic who was rubbing his hands, emitting tons of electrically onto his hand. Several seconds later, his hands glow bright blue and soon lunge at the army of ghosts as well.
"Hostiles, destroyed! ...The battle's over Senpai. This should put Martha back to being her usual quiet self..." Mash said
"..."
"Huh?"
"Foou..."
"If she's not back to normal, then, Umm... Right, of course. I've got it, you two! There's still something there. There's still something there. Something much larger than a mere ghost. This is, yes, the sixth imaginary element... Its true nature is unknown, but at the very least, its magical energy indicates "that"." Romani said
"...I sense it, too. Senpai, prepare for battle." Mash said
"Fou..."
"..."
"Don't let Martha go out! It's likely she'll unleash the True Name of her Noble Phantasm like before. At any rate, your opponent is..." Romani said
"GAAAA!"
"Picking up a high level of magical energy! It's definitely a "demon."
"Tarasque."
"Oh, no! Sonic, hurry! We have to defeat the enemy and take control of St. Martha!"
"Master, do you still have enough power to stop these enemies?!" Mash said
"Of course I do!"
Sonic emits electrically once again but this time, he emits even more electrically as the blue lighting around Sonic connects with the ground as well. The Daemon and the ghost all begin to charge at the three at high speed. Sonic continues to charge his body more and more to the point he was just a glowing blue ball that had blue bolts sparking around the circle. Mash quickly gets in front of Martha and places her shield in front of them as Sonic yells and releases a powerful lightning attack. The lighting attacks all the ghosts and Daemon is hit with thousands or millions of bolts of lighting flowing through bodies. Mash and Martha watched as the ghosts and Daemon's bodies began smoking as they were melting from the inside. Sonic continues to release his attack until Sonic explodes and causes a powerful EMP blast that easily defeats the ghosts and Daemon, all falling down while covered in smoke. Moments later, the enemies vanish soon after. Sonic lands back down on the ground and stretch his body.
"Hehe... Never tried that move before. But glad I learned a new ability." Sonic said
"Whew... at least that attack only connected with the enemies," Mash said
"...For heaven's sake. Haven't we had enough trials to face? Just look at this world, isn't it obvious? There's no place for anyone who can't see that, may that be men or demons. Back to hell with you! No matter what era it is, there's no place for demons. ...Because all original sins were carried away by "Him." Martha said
"...Martha..."
"*Static Noises*"
"Uh, Docter... We can't hear you. The leyline isn't working properly." Mash said
A few minutes later, Romani fixes the leyline and is able to connect with the three again.
"Leyline disconnected again... I really need to ask Da Vinci to fix this. All right, the battle's over. And it looks like St. Martha's calm again. Whew! All's well that ends well. Wow, that was scary..." Romani said
"Fou, foou!"
"A demon possessing the power equal to a dragon is scary, but, I think I am more afraid of St. Martha actually. Really, I'm really glad she didn't go berserk..." Romani said
"Pardon? Did I do something? Thanks to you, we've driven off the lost souls and the demon. All this too is God's will. Yes, in normal circumstances, my existence as a Heroic Spirit is unnatural. Even so... As long as I am with you, those who strive to save the world. My momentary existence. My shallow resurrection. My shallow resurrection. Thank you. Sonic, Mash Kyrielight." Martha said
"Don't mention it, buddy," Sonic replied
"Huh? Did she skip my name just now?" Romani thought
"Fou, foou."
Interlude XX
Destroyer Monk
"Ah, Master. A moment of your time, please..." Benkei asks
"Sure, what is it you have in mind?" Sonic replied
"Yes. The truth is that being on standby is not agreeable to me. I've been seeking a good place to train in..." Benkei said
"Training, you say? How about the mock combat curriculum?" Mash said
The three teleport to Rome soon after.
*Rome*
"There, now it'll summon mock-Servants for training. They're similar to Shadow Servants but extremely safe." Mash said
"They're like projections made by a Summoning Circle. Okay, I'll have some summoned for you now." Romani said
"Right, bring it on!"
Benkei lunges toward the fake Servant and swings his weapon at them several times and creating scratch marks around their armour. The Fake Servant counters back by pushing Benkei back away from them and swinging their weapon at Benkei. Benkei blocks the attacks easily and kicks them away from him this time. Sonic appears behind Benkei, curled into a ball and homing attacks the Fake Servant at its head and knocks them to the ground. Sonic lands right in front of the Fake Servant and performs a somersault kick, throwing the Fake Servant to the air where he jumps at them and performs a backwards round kick that knocks them towards Benkei. Benkei then strikes the fake Servant with his weapon, stabbing them through the heart before throwing them back to the air, jumping at them and striking them back down to the ground. Benkei aims her weapon at the Fake Servant and stabs them in the back. Moments later, the Fake Servant vanished away.
"Very nice battle," Sonic said
"Hm, that was a good fight for a training battle," Benkei said
"Strange. It was never that strong before..." Mash said
"Now, to my next request. Obviously, an opponent who won't hold back." Benkei said
"Yes, the next one. Doctor, if you please." Mash said
"Hmm, I didn't set it up to be that strong ...How about this one?" Romani said
"Doctor?"
"Gi, gigi...Body, body, body!"
"Wh-What is this–!?" Mash shock
"Ah, so the next one understands words, does it? If it can think, then let's step up the battle! May peace be with you. Now, bring it on!"
Benkei lunges at the second Fake Servant and swings his weapon at the Fake Servant. The Fake Servant fires magical energy at Benkei but Benkei quickly dodges each magical energy projectile, lungs at them and swings his weapon at them several times around their body before kicking them away from him. Benkei rushes at Fake Servant once again and strikes the Fake Servant once again and stabs them several times at their bodies before Sonic homing attacks them, knocking them away from Benkei. Sonic curls into a ball and revs up to speed faster and faster. Sonic then jumps in the air as Benkei swings his weapon across and launches Sonic towards the Fake Servant. Sonic hits the Fake Servant directly in the chest and knocks them to the ground. Sonic soon after, bounces off a boulder and hits the Fake Servant once again in the back before landing back on the ground and vanishing soon after.
"Very nice battle, Master," Benkei said
"Thanks, Benkei," Sonic replied
"Doctor? Doctor? ...Hmm, I can't contact him." Mash said
"It's a bit unsatisfying, shall we finish this?" Benkei said
"That would seem wise. Let's prepare to Rayshift back. ...Huh? This reading is..."
"Heh, heh, heh, heh... Give me...your...name!"
"Ugh...These training spirit bodies are growing far faster than we anticipated! They're now the same as Shadow Servants... No, they're starting to be on par with a Servant!" Mash said
"–Oh? A Servant, eh? Then it's only reasonable that we fight!" Benkei said
"What! We need to retreat!"
"Leave no evil behind, Mash! So that they do not grow into a greater threat later! One thing is certain, we must clean this up as much as we can! At the very least, my weapon is telling me to do it!" Benkei said
"Understood!" Mash replied
"Let me handle this you two!" Sonic said
The Red Wisp appears and enters Sonic's body, transforming into the Burts form. Sonic quickly flies towards the Servants and creates a fiery vortex that sucks in the Servants and spins them around uncontrollably. As the vortex was still active, Sonic begins to charge up into a glowing ball that glows brighter by the second. Moments later, Sonic releases and creates a firey pillar of flames that burns the Fake Servants and deals massive damage to them. Moments later, the Servants were turned to ash as the pillar of flames dies down at the ashes fall around Sonic. Sonic then transforms back to his normal blue form soon after.
"That will l teach you guys a lesson," Sonic said
"Hahahahaha! Wonderful! Wonderful" Benkei shouted
"Hey, what happened? Hey! I said hey!" Romani shouted
"Let's go back now," Mash said
"Yes. We've trained enough. ...Thank you, Master. Henceforth, I shall continue to be at your service." Benkei said
"I greatly appreciate it!" Sonic replied
To Be Continue...
"Next Time: Septem Interludes (Part 3.)" Sonic As The Narrator
Hello everyone, MySonicFan here and I hope you all are enjoying the story so far. I greatly appreciate all the support it has gotten since this story is something new from my other stories. So thank you so much for enjoying it. Now, I'm here to talk about the common question I've been getting a lot. And it's about the introduction of adding Tails and the other Sonic characters in the story.
My Answer: The Sonic Characters will appear in the story but they will appear way later on in the story. However, they would appear but they won't teleport to Chaldea themselves. That's all I will say right now. Chapter for their own appearance is still to be determined. In the case of Metal Sonic, in the Prologue Chapter. Metal Sonic did hit Sonic and made him enter the portal but Metal Sonic wasn't and instead was knocked away from the portal and barely missed the portal. That was the idea of the chapter and The way I explained it in the chapter wasn't what I thought I apologize for any confusion. And the last question I received was if characters like Shara would appear in the story... All I have to say is... Look out for the future chapters.