-172:32:58

The execution of Assassin had been witnessed by one more pair of eyes: those belonging to the master of the Tohsaka residence itself.

"Excellent," Tokiomi murmured pleased, eyes lingering through his office window on the area of his garden that now looked like someone had been dancing in a minefield. He lightly moved the wine glass in his hand, the red liquid swirling within, as his thoughts drifted around the displays of the powerful Servants at his disposal.

"A pitiful trifle to concern me with, Tokiomi." A proud voice sneered from behind him while green sparks danced in front of him.

Speak of the devil. The Master rose from his chair but kept his glass, looking between the Heroic Spirit duo fully materializing inside his office. To his left, Lancer X stood in front of a bookcase, left hand resting against her hip. To his right, Archer leaned with his arms crossed against the glass. Neither displayed any signs of even the slightest fatigue from their battle with the other Servant.

Tokiomi bowed with a smile towards the golden-armored Servant. "Forgive my bothering you, King of all kings," he spoke in his most deferential tone possible. Other Servants like Lancer X could be addressed casually, even ordered around with lesser worry of repercussion.

Not this one, though. "Gilgamesh, King of Heroes." Crimson eyes opened and peered towards the one that had summoned him.

"If I must be bothered with these farces of a battle," the eyes travelled past the one that summoned him and towards his ally, "then you would do well not to interfere, green mongrel."

"You needn't have bothered at all," Lancer X replied with nary a tremor in her voice or posture. She sauntered around to the other side of the desk, braid swaying against her back with each step, so both men could see her clearly. "I alone was sufficient for disabling Assassin. There was no need to risk exposure of your identity. And you didn't seem to have interest in stepping in, for that matter."

Archer frowned. "Do not presume you know my thoughts, woman. I do as I please, and watching you draw out that ridiculously one-sided battle was tedious." The frown turned to a half-smirk. "Though I suppose if you would dance so exquisitely for the worm, you might entertain me yet."

Her right hand drifted to where her weapon hung. "I would have believed one so illustriously famed as the 'King of Heroes' would have higher standards than such… earthly desires." His eyebrows furrowed but she didn't waver. "Life truly is full of disappointments."

Tokiomi lifted a hand and spoke quickly while maintaining his bow. "That is quite enough, Lancer X. It is not our place to question the true King's actions."

Her eyes narrowed at the outstretched left hand and the ornate red yin-yang symbol that adorned it: her Command Seals. The underlying message was clear. The Servant of the Spear took a step back and bowed her head in accordance with her Master's will. The Servant of the Bow scoffed in turn, his interest beginning to fade.

Tokiomi continued before an argument could break out. "Your performances tonight will prevent any fools from attacking this residence. And in time, we shall learn where our enemies are and hunt them down with the supreme lion among us."

Lancer X restrained herself from rolling her eyes at the obvious fawning while Archer simply huffed. "Very well. Then for now, I shall stave my boredom with a little walking around. This age interests me quite a bit."

"The modern world pleases you, then?"

"It disgusts me beyond words." Gilgamesh answered without hesitation.

Lancer X tilted her head towards him. "Already such a condemnation despite having walked on a single portion of it for a mere four days?"

"What I have seen and listened of its people suffices for my judgement." The Servant stepped away from the window. "The dogs today shame the proud people that served me simply by calling themselves of the same species." Something resembling fondness slipped into his tone. Both of the others started at the unexpected emotion from the haughty king, a tiny smile for a fraction of a moment as he recalled the citizens of his kingdom.

Then it was gone again, leaving only prideful detachment in its wake. "There are still ways for me to amuse myself, though." He cast a cold gaze towards his partner. "What matters most is determining if any treasures exist here worthy of joining my collection." The gaze shifted to their Master. "Should nothing in this world be found that I deem worthy, then there will be severe consequences for wasting my time with summoning me, Tokiomi."

"Do not worry," the confident human assured him. "The Holy Grail will most definitely match your standards, King of Heroes."

"I shall be the judge of that," Archer retorted as he began to walk away, armor clanking with each step. "I shall play along with your little games for now. Anything of value in this world is mine. Regardless of how magnificent this precious Grail of yours truly is, I won't let a pack of mongrels fight for it without my approval." He eyed Lancer X from the side with a sneer. "Even if some of them have stumbled here from gardens not the one I call mine."

Lancer X narrowed her hazel eyes at him but chose to keep quiet. She already knew that in a battle of sheer power, she wouldn't have a chance normally. And the arrogance wasn't quite like that of the brutish emperor she had known in life, full of hot bluster and self-assurance. It was much more… matter-of-fact. Like the things he said were solid rules of the universe. Like he wasn't interested in taking whatever he wanted whenever he pleased because it already belonged to him. It was unnerving, to say the least. But then, she understood how this sort of arrogance was reinforced. This was the second time she had witnessed his almighty Noble Phantasm, Gate of Babylon.

The tyrant king of Uruk, ancient Mesopotamia, the very first recorded hero in the history of this world's humanity. Thereby the greatest among the Throne of Heroes. The number of individuals that could rival him could be counted on the fingers of one hand, and whether or not they could actually surpass him was a completely different story.

Of course, these rules might only apply if one narrowed the criteria to Heroic Spirits originating from this world. But this was still the early stages of the War. Much is uncertain.

"You and the outlander can handle the remaining details, Tokiomi." The golden king began to dissipate into sparkles. But before he fully turned into spirit form, Gilgamesh gave them one last order with a visible frown. "Should you encounter that metallic cur first, remind him that he is to hold his tongue in my presence." And he was gone.

Lancer X's gaze remained on the spot where her tentative partner had been. "With respect, Master, I don't trust him."

Once he sensed that the other Servant wasn't anywhere near them, Tokiomi finally straightened with an exhausted sigh, placed his wine on the table, and sat down with less properness than he may've preferred. "With respect…" he chuckled, closing his eyes with a tired smile. "I'm not surprised. Of all the possibilities, Gilgamesh had to be summoned in the Archer class."

"Which naturally comes with the Independent Action Skill," the female Servant added as she moved to the table's right side. "Granting him too much freedom is a risk, especially with the power at his disposal. He might attempt to wipe this entire city off the face of this world to alleviate his… boredom."

Tokiomi opened an eye to glance at her amused. "Do you fear him, Lancer X? Your own partner, chosen by the Grail?" He teased, retrieving his wine for a sip.

Lancer X returned the look, hand at her hip. "Ah, so in your eyes, I stand on equal ground with the King of Heroes himself? You certainly have a gift for flattery, Tokiomi." They shared a brief laugh (silently grateful You-Know-Who wasn't around), then she turned serious. "I served one bloodthirsty emperor in my old life. I am not keen to repeat the experience."

Tokiomi leaned back in his chair to digest the information. Bloodthirsty emperor? Were it not for the Holy Grail War, he would've been interested in learning more about this foreign Heroic Spirit. He still remembered the shock of when that Rider X, the oddly disconcerting familiar Kirei had summoned, told him of how there would be seven additional Servants to this Grail War, of how they would all answer the calls from worlds different from the one the Tohsaka head knew. He already knew of the existence of alternate realities due to his family's ties with the Kaleidoscope, but for inhabitants of such places to actually be here, walk on the same ground as he did, it was as incredible as…

Well, as incredible as the heroes from different legends arriving to this time period to go to war with one another.

Yet here one stood, in front of his desk. And Lancer X was almost certainly from a completely different world than Rider X, one could tell when comparing the former's lean, elegant yet deadly poise to the latter's massive, trepidation-inducing silhouette. She hadn't told more than her True Name yet, but her combat prowess was without question, and she had so far proven herself to be a loyal, intelligent (if rather dry-witted) subordinate.

The first moments following the summoning had been tense, and with good reason: just as Kirei had described his summoning to him, neither Servant appeared to be aware initially of the Fourth Grail War's system. Lancer X assumed that an enemy was present, Archer deemed her a "harlot" attempting to curry favor with "the one, true king." Tokiomi and the Kotomine's attempts to calm them down were all but ignored.

And Rider X's snide contributions had decidedly not helped the situation.

Needless to say, Tokiomi Toshaka had feared that restoring the bottom parts of his house would be the least of his concerns when golden portals emerged to bathe the room in light.

Both "X" Servants actually managed to withstand a volley from the fabled Gate of Babylon (an impressive feat itself) before the newcomers received the special notification from the Grail. Archer had sneered at the time, declaring her and her "X" colleagues a "pack of mongrels frolicking about in his kingdom," and Lancer X wasn't all too pleased either with the current arrangements, but at least Rider X finally stopped antagonizing the former and they hadn't continued attacking each other. Thus, the Tohsaka mansion remained thankfully intact.

But to say the partnership was tentative would be an understatement.

Tokiomi drummed his right fingers against his desk. "…Regardless of his demeanor or my gift for flattery," he shared a mirthful look with the Servant of the Staff, "I still retain control over Archer. And once we have the Grail, we can all go our separate ways without worry." A lie, of course, considering what the requirements for the wish of the Tohsaka line was, but she didn't need to know that.

And thankfully, she was considering something else. "What if I were to shadow Archer while he is out on his little jaunts?" Lancer X offered. "It may allow us to intervene should he find or cause trouble."

That suggestion… wasn't completely without merit. Tokiomi stroked his goatee in consideration; among this Servant's particular skillset was the rare Double Summon, a trait that allowed a Heroic Spirit to operate with the boons of two different classes. In her case, she was both a Lancer and an Assassin of equal prowess. The trouncing of Kirei's Assassin minutes ago being clear proof of that fact.

Though the special nature of Kirei's Servant made having another possible spy at his disposal seem redundant, Tokiomi appreciated that Lancer X was a far better combatant. And perhaps she could keep an eye on the King…

He shook his head, then gave his answer. "No. You're good, Lancer X, but Archer has access to innumerous Noble Phantasms, no doubt one or two of them allowing him to sense when he is being stalked or the like. And you're no match for him in terms of raw destructive force. One slipup, one misstep on your part," she had the pride to look vaguely insulted at that but let him continue without protest, "and we may find ourselves facing the retribution of an irate King of Heroes." Tokiomi finished his wine to steady his nerves at the possibility. Like there isn't enough friction already between him and Rider X…

"Besides, it would be a waste of your abilities. Gilgamesh remains our ally for the time being, Lancer X. We simply need to tolerate his… eccentricities while ensuring he dispatches our adversaries." Tokiomi gestured ahead. "You are to continue guarding the residence, just in case some Masters didn't get the message." And it didn't hurt to have a more manageable Servant on standby in case of something unexpected.

Lord knows that seemed to be the norm with this Holy Grail War.

Lancer X's gaze drifted to the side, towards one of the bookshelves. For a brief moment, Tokiomi thought he may have misjudged her obedience before she asked, "What of your family?"

He felt his face turn blank. "Excuse me?" Tohsaka followed her line of sight towards a picture of him, Aoi and Rin. It was one his wife had convinced him to have a professional take not long after his giving… He breathed to steady himself. It had to be done.

"I have yet to see them ever since we were summoned." Lancer X watched him carefully, her training helping her scrutinize his actions. "And a family is an easy target in wartime. If they're not in this residence, will you send me to guard them as well?" This was both an honest query and a test. If she were to serve this man, she had to have a better understanding of his true nature. She'd already allowed herself to be deceived by a superior once.

And it had nearly cost the Edenian warrior her friendship with Kitana.

The patriarch of the Tohsaka family regained his relaxed smile. "My wife and daughter are currently residing with some good friends. No one other than those in my group are aware of their current location. They are safe, Lancer X." The mask made it difficult to read her expressions, but she seemed to accept the information.

A part of him appreciated the logic behind the question, but he thought he had detected a hint of concern in tone. Like she had honestly been worried for Aoi and Rin. Unexpected.

Nevertheless, Tokiomi kept his thoughts to himself while speaking. "That is all for tonight, Lancer X. You are dismissed."

The Servant continued to watch him, noting his confidence bordered on arrogance. So certain everyone is convinced of tonight's proceedings. Or that no trouble may come now. With that attitude, he may've been able to summon Archer without the snakeskin.

But she also noticed a light softening of the eyes when he spoke of his family, as well as how he had mentioned them. There was genuine affection there. I may not have a completely unreasonable Master after all.

With that in mind, Lancer X bowed her head towards her Master and shifted into spirit form.

Tokiomi finally allowed himself to relax. Kirei's Servants had been playing their parts to perfection up till now, despite Rider X's bluster. His apprentice had them well under control. History's first hero had admittedly proven to be a bigger handful than he had anticipated, but he had confidence he could manage Gilgamesh. He also had exceedingly little to complain about with Lancer X. She may not have been part of his original plan and had voiced some objections to the strategy they would use, but her contributions more than compensated for the initial tension. The emerald-robed staff-wielder was frankly easier to communicate with than Gilgamesh. And she understood her place while he had his eyes on the prize.

All in all, a reliable collection of pawns in his game. He could easily tolerate a little snark, some sentimentalism and a pair of colossal egos.

Tokiomi took one last satisfied look at the battered grounds outside his window. "I'll let Kirei handle the details from here. Everything is going just as I had planned."

Another Master, having witnessed the events, grew pleased as well at the turn of the night.

"Assassin's gone?!" Waver Velvet's mood brightened considerably as he absorbed what his mouse familiar had seen and heard. Safe inside the Mackenzie house, he shifted happily about on the bed that wasn't his towards its other occupant. "Hey, Rider! Great news," the Master proclaimed, "One Servant's already gone."

But the only answer was the crunching of rice crackers and a disinterested grunt. The large Servant had nonchalantly spread himself in only his undergarments and chest armor out on the floor, surrounded by a collection of snacks, literature of varying sizes about varying planes and military stuff, and a small TV currently showing footage of helicopters shooting at something. All stuff he had collected over the last few days.

"Hey," Waver tried again to get his attention, but nothing. So he threw his arms and upped the volume. "Hey, will you pay attention? Assassin just got killed! The Holy Grail War's started for real now!"

But Rider just scratched his butt while watching the film. His Master's patience finally reached its breaking point. "These last couple of days I've working like a dog to collect intel while you just chomp down on snacks and watch movies. All of which I have to pay for!"

"I could easily claim these materials myself…" the thick lump of meat rumbled, not even bothering to look.

"Sure, by tearing up the places and stealing them! That wouldn't draw any attention at all!" Waver's arms swung through the air like a pair of crazy propellers before slapping against his cheeks. "At least Saber X only spends half his time drinking liquor like a fish, but you!" He slashed his hand at the biggest freeloader in the house. "And how many times do I have to tell you to stay in spirit form when I don't need you? You're burning through my mana and my finances, you big couch potato!"

Rider finally looked over his shoulder to say, "Oh, relax," and wave his hand lazily. "No one is ever worried about an Assassin, the lot of them are just a group of sneaky weaklings. He could've never troubled me." He focused back on the screen, hopping onto the tips of his toes. "Anyways, that right there, boy," Waver followed his pointing finger at a fighter plane being displayed, "that contraption called a B2. A thing of beauty! I'm considering getting about ten of them."

Waver sighed. Why do I even bother? "For that much money, you could just as well buy an entire country," he grumbled half-seriously.

"Oh?" His sitting back on his rump made everything in the room shake. Waver thought he could hear something crash in the house. The King of Conquerors crossed his arms. "The funds are indeed a concern." He always got a little grumpy when his conquest plans collided with practical parts. "If only there were some city with capital like Persepolis close by, we could just raid it and get all we needed." His eyes narrowed at the scene change to a certain man. "This Clinton fellow could be a hindrance for us down the line. He might be even more difficult to defeat than Darius III."

"For, I don't know, the fiftieth time," a familiar rasp made both look towards the bedroom door, "quit saying 'we' whenever you make your plans for taking over the world, muahahaha, all that bunk."

Waver finally asked, "…How did you get into the house?"

Saber X was leaning against the door, arms crossed and one leg propped up. "This isn't a fortress, kid. Plus, you left the kitchen window open, and with all the noise you made I could've probably brought a whole band through here. Keep it up and you'll wake the Mackenzie's."

Waver winced in slight guilt over that before remembering his priorities. "A-anyway, good that you're here. Assassin-"

"Came up short at the Tohsaka house, I know." Saber X cut him off. "I saw."

The student stopped in shock. H-h-he was there? How? I know there were other familiars present, but that was it. No other souls around, just a-

He blinked, then realized it right as he noticed the little smirk playing along the older man's stubble-bordered lips. …Crow.

Right, this Saber was a very irregular one. But, Waver had to admit sheepishly, he had proven to be an excellent asset these last couple days. While Rider had stocked up on entertainment and snacks, Saber X periodically went out for reconnaissance. Thanks in no small part to him, Waver had already determined the residences of the Tohsaka and Matou families, learned that a large mansion by the city's outskirts had been purchased by the Einzberns, and had at least some idea where two more Masters could be hiding.

Now, if only he didn't keep swiping whiskey and other types of booze that he would share with Rider those few times he dropped in…

Waver still felt relief well up in him, closing his eyes. "But yes, one Assassin is now gone. Good thing, too," he proclaimed proudly to his Servants, "you both prefer to go head-on against our enemies, I imagine. So if one of the Servants that would most likely use tricks and surprises is gone, that can only work to our favor." He was proud of determining the strategic movements, that had to earn their respect-

A rustle made him crack one eye open. "I could use this Tomahawk thing as well!" Rider had grabbed the TV and was staring at the screen up close. "Hey, Qrow, have a look at this magnificent machine!"

Eyebrow twitching, the beleaguered Master snapped his gaze to the side, where Qrow Branwen was knocking back a green bottle without a care in the world.

(Saber X had revealed his True Name to Iskandar two nights ago, when Waver screamed at him why he only told it now, he answered with a careless shrug, "He asked.")

He stopped drinking long enough to eye the tank onscreen and mutter, "Awesome," then the bottle was back at his mouth.

Rider merely grinned, unperturbed by the lack of enthusiasm. His partner may be reluctant now, but in time, he was certain they would fight together across the lands. Just like some many others in his time!

Sadly, his Master seemed to be more focused on the immediate battles. "Saber, Lancer, Archer, the three mighty knight classes," he slapped his hands against the bed to get this on track, "and the Berserkers, a bunch of mindless brutes: they're all no match for Saber X's skill and Rider's Noble Phantasm!" He believed this with all his heart. "What we need to do instead of messing around now is find the Casters-"

"No way it's that simple, pipsqueak," Waver's words staggered to a stop as Saber X interrupted him with a stern look. Despite the liquor he had been guzzling a second ago, those red eyes remained sharp as a knife. "Weren't you paying attention to the fight?"

"Wh-b-o-of course, I was, I know Assassin's dead-"

"And just how was he killed?" Rider's voice too had grown serious. Though his gaze remained locked on the tank footage, there was no sign of his usual exuberance. "Which Servant did it, boy? You saw it happen, right?"

"I… guess it was Tohsaka's Servants, both of them." Waver's brow scrunched up as he tried to recall. "First, this green one showed up out of nowhere, beat him up, then there was another guy. All sparkly and gold… it was all a blur, I couldn't really-"

"Idiot!"

Puick!

Waver yelped as he fell back onto the bed, a fresh bruise on his forehead. Courtesy of Rider's middle finger.

Saber X nodded by his spot. "You deserved that. Giving us a load of half-assed information."

"If we are to fight, then we fight to win and survive," Rider agreed, retracting his mighty hand. He then looked to his ally. "I hope you at least knew to observe correctly."

Waver's head stung, but not nearly as much as his pride. More so because Rider was absolutely right. He should've paid attention, but he'd gone and gotten caught up in just the result. Stupid. Sloppy.

Saber X used his leg to push off the wall, took one more drink from his bottle, then glanced towards a teary-eyed Master cradling his forehead. "Pay attention this time, pipsqueak. We're gonna walk it through together. First, Assassin showed up at the manor. He danced all over the security system." Waver blinked away the liquid in pain and slight confusion. The drunkard almost sounded like one of his professors now, stern, matter-of-fact, but also… expectant. "What happened next?" Like he wanted to… help the boy.

The two stared wordlessly at Waver and Waver just stared back for all of three seconds before he realized they were waiting for an answer. So he spoke quickly to avoid another flick. "W-well, let me think…" he sifted through his memories despite the pain, trying to recall the exact details. "…Right as Assassin made to disable the main barrier spell, the green guy attacked out of nowhere-"

"Stop." He shut up quickly at Saber X's command. "First of all, it wasn't a green guy, it was a green girl." He shot a sly look towards Rider. "A fine-built one, too."

"Oh?" Rider grinned even as Waver blushed.

Saber X's eyebrows wiggled before he sobered up again. "Anyways, this chick just popped up, right? And she beat the crap out of Assassin. Remember what she was using?"

Waver's eyes narrowed in thought. The fight had been a blur, but there was at least one moment where she had stood still. "A staff… a staff as long as her, glowing green…"

Saber X shared a nod with Rider, the latter mumbling, "A Lancer most likely then."

"B-but she also had some kind of throwing weapon, I think. And…" Waver replayed Saber X's words. She just popped up. "Where did she come from?" He asked out loud.

"Exactly," Saber X praised him slightly. "I'm pretty sure she's a Lancer, but she's also got some way of hiding herself. Presence Concealment or something like that." He scratched his chin, now looking at an equally pensive Rider. "Still, the way she fought, she's got to be of a knight class. She was in control the whole time, it was like she was dancing with that pole."

Rider hummed in thought. "And Assassin was alone?" A nod in answer made him frown.

Waver frowned at the question. "Wait, why does that matter-"

Puick!

"Tch!" Qrow's flick wasn't as powerful as Iskandar's, but he went straight for the sore spot.

"It matters," the Servant of the Sword scolded the boy covering his forehead again, "because we have to ask ourselves, why was Assassin alone?"

Waver's eyes widened, letting a few tears trickle out, as he understood. "Where was his partner?" he asked out loud. In this Grail War, every Master theoretically had access to two Servants, not just one. The Servant of the Shadows had indeed been torn to shreds by the duo most likely under the Tohsaka Master's command, but he had been alone the whole time. Why hadn't another Servant stepped in to save him or fight the others? Had they known it was a lost cause? Had there been a schism between that team? Why?

Rider finally shrugged. "Whatever, we'll worry about that another time," he dismissed before casting an inquisitive eye at Waver. "Now then, Lancer trounced Assassin, then that's where the sparkly gold one joined in, yes? Was there anything particular about him, then?"

"F-from there, it was all over in an instant." Waver looked away embarrassed. "And it all happened at night, I couldn't tell with all the color and mana…" He flinched away at that finger being pulled back, desperately trying to protect his injury.

Saber X pushed down his partner's arm with a sigh. "He's been punished enough for one night, Kandy Bar." He shrugged. "And to be fair, it wasn't easy to make out details of Goldenboy for me either. He just stepped out of spirit form on the roof, then there's just a stream of weapons turning Assassin into mincemeat. Real full of himself too. Barely acknowledged Greenlee even though she definitely didn't need his help to win." A frown and pause came before Saber X's next words. "Hold on… the weapons came from portals. Goldenboy never lifted a finger or moved so much as an inch, but they were launched like missiles or something."

"Then he sounds like an Archer," Rider concluded. "An unusual one, like the green woman, but the other alternative would be a Caster. And Goldenboy doesn't sound like one of those."

Waver perked up, recalling the scene as well. "Hey, guys," he asked while still shielding his forehead, "each Servant usually has just one Noble Phantasm, right?"

Rider's eyebrow rose. "Technically yes. But there are those like me who can command two, and those who have three. But the quantity of Noble Phantasms isn't the right way to understand them. After all, they are the physical forms of the stories and facts told about us." The hero patiently reminded him, casting a hand towards Saber X. "A Noble Phantasm doesn't necessarily have to be a weapon like Qrow's Harbinger. Sometimes, it's a certain attack or event."

Waver thought about this, then asked, "Then there could be Noble Phantasms where multiple swords are launched at a target?"

"A sword splitting into more than one? Yes, that's possible."

"I can think of a few guys back from my world with abilities like that. And it could count as a single Noble Phantasm, too." Saber X added. Then he watched his Master closely. "Something on your mind, kid?"

Waver looked up from his ponderings; the foreign Servant was smirking at him, but not in a bad way. He was reminded of his studies again, for some reason. "It's just…" he began, eager to prove himself, "there weren't just swords being shot, right?"

"No," the Huntsman-turned-Heroic Sprit agreed with a hint of pride, "they weren't." Not bad. Kid's a little stuck up, but he's got a good eye. To Rider, he elaborated, "Swords, spears, halberds, axes, a dagger or two, I think. And they all came from separate portals."

"And the designs were different, too." Waver added with increasing confidence. Much to the silent delight of his Servants. "I'm not sure, but… no two of them looked alike, really." But that raised another worrisome thought: did that mean they were all Noble Phantasms? But how did that work? He looked up in hope towards the other observer of the "battle".

But all Saber X said was, "I don't have a clue either, right now. All I can say is that those are two unusual and seriously strong Servants Tohsaka's got."

"Could you… recognize either of them?" A shake of the head was the only response Waver received, making him sigh.

He had expected that, though. On one hand, the "X" Servants were Heroic Spirits from alternate worlds, which meant that the regular Servants were incapable of recognizing them via knowledge granted by the Throne of Heroes. But Saber X had warned him that this conversely meant that he and his otherworldly competition only had access to information on Heroic Spirits from the worlds they originated. "I could give you a full list of all the people that would qualify for Heroic Spirits and what they ought to be capable of," the alcoholic Servant had said at the time, "but that's if we were talking about Remnant exclusively. For Servants that don't come from Remnant like the ones of this world, I'd have to do it the old-fashioned way."

Frustrating though that was, it only made sense that the foreign familiars were limited this way. It would otherwise give them too much an advantage over the ones that called this world home.

But while both Master and Servant were mulling over what to do with all these open questions…

"Eh, never mind. We'll learn their true identities once we engage them in open battle." Two right eyebrows twitched at this straightforward answer, but before either could say anything to Rider's declaration, they received simultaneous slaps on the back that left Qrow stumbling and Waver almost sprawling off the bed.

Waver gasped for breath; a painful action. At least it wasn't meant to humiliate him. "And… you're okay with all this?"

"Naturally!" The King of Conquerors flashed them a delighted grin. "This just increases my excitement." He pulled the other males in close with his massive arms to whisper, "Food, sex, sleep, and war. Whatever you do, enjoy every single moment of it. That's the secret to living." He laughed heartily to Waver's utter confusion.

Saber X meanwhile smirked. "Well, I can say I'm comfortable with three of those things…" he barked a laugh at the boy's increasingly reddening face. "Hey now, Uncle Qrow didn't die no virgin." The Servants chuckled together while he continued to glow from the embarrassment. "Maybe we can help you get started on that kind of stuff while we're here-"

"SH-SHUT UP, YOU ASSHOLES!"

Finally recovering from his laughing fit, Iskandar released them and rolled his shoulders. "Right, then. Let's go find some excitement outside. We're moving to battle, my friends. Get ready!"

Waver was trying to get his face back under control, but this confused him. As usual. "T-to battle? What battle? Where?"

"Wherever it is." His neck popped.

While the young one protested, his partner just rolled his eyes in good nature. He's as restless as Ruby with a brand-new weapons catalogue or Yang when she gets into a brawl, he thought before something thumped against his heart. He took a breath and kept his relaxed smile despite the slight pain. You'll see them again when you pull through this nuthouse.

"Do you think you and Qrow were the only ones to witness the scene at the Tohsakas?" Rider asked the boy, cutting off his complaints. "Assassin's death will make the rounds soon enough. That means all the other teams will be readying themselves." He sauntered towards the window and peeked through the blinds; maybe there was already an enemy waiting for them. "All we have to do is find them and crush them."

"Easier said than done, Kandy Bar," Saber X replied while hoisting up his bottle; not much left. Honestly, this kind of charge-in-all-guns-blazing strategy sounded too much like what Jimmy would usually pull.

"I am a Rider," Iskandar reminded him while facing him again. "Only one other Servant can match me in mobility in this War."

…But for some reason, Qrow was a little excited, too. Maybe he was just itching for a fight. Or maybe Rider was rubbing off on him a bit. Guy's charismatic, I'll give 'em that much. He glanced over at Waver, who looked like he just wanted to crawl into his bed.

…Maybe this'll be fun after all.

Then Rider went and pulled out the Sword of the Kupriotes, its blade glowing with mana. Four eyes widened in apprehension while two voices yelled out simultaneously, "Whoa, whoa, whoa! Not in here!" "Are you trying to blow the roof off, stupid?!"

…Yeah, there were a few rough edges that needed smoothing out with this team too.

Meanwhile, a certain man partaking in the Grail War now stood in front of Fuyuki Church, where the overseer of this great event awaited him.

"I have lost one Servant," Kirei Kotomine announced in his usual monotone, "and the other rejected me as his Master. Where he's gone, I don't know. Thus, I relinquish my right as Master and can no longer participate in the Holy Grail War. Under the rules of Heaven's Feel, I, Kirei Kotomine, request shelter and safety under the Church."

Standing in front of the doorway of the sacred (Tohsaka-owned) structure, his father put on a grave face and answered, "Your request is accepted. In accordance to my responsibility as judge, I, Risei Kotomine, promise you shall be safe. You may enter."

Once the "former" Master was inside, the older man smiled in pride at his accomplishments. "Well done, Kirei." Even while receiving no answer, he believed his son had every right to be satisfied with completing the first stage. They walked together into the main room, through the many wooden pews, where the altar lay.

In front of it stood Rider X, clasping his iron hands behind his back, seemingly admiring the stained glass at the back. The candlelight reflected off his silver frame, making it seem as though the foreign Heroic Spirit was bathing in fire. "So," he rumbled, "I am officially no longer your Servant, then." Rider X tilted his domed head back to smirk at them.

The overseer forced himself not to shudder at that tone, those unnerving crimson orbs gazing down at them. Archer, the King of Heroes, possessed as well red eyes and a dismissive attitude towards everyone around him, but he at least gave off the impression of being human. Rider X offered no such comfort.

A glance to the side showed Kirei stiffening as well, but he simply said, "What are you doing here?" Fortunately, his contract with the strange "Heroic" Spirit was still very much intact despite what he had said two minutes ago. "I hope no one saw you enter the Church at least."

"I only descended from the upper atmosphere to the roof once it was within range. Most people, even magi, rarely bother to look up. Especially in a modern world full of aircraft."

Risei nodded in slightly reluctant agreement. "It's true, Rider X returned to his usual form and slipped through the roof access inside. Even if monitoring this place were allowed, and that is strictly forbidden due to it being inviolably neutral ground," both nodded at the reminder that breaking such accords would risk censure for any Master (usually anyways), "not a single soul should have recognized him appearing."

"And this is merely a visit." The titan added in a bored tone. "I have no intention of spending my entire time in these dusty halls of groveling and prostration." He noticed amused how the trained muscles of the father flared from this blatant dismissal of his faith.

As did Kirei; provoking others seemed to be a hobby for Rider X. Even the legendary Gilgamesh was not above snide comments about "false sheen" and the like, the result almost leading to a full-scale fight between the two. He'd already been forced to expend one Command Seal in making his unexpected familiar kneel in apology to Archer.

And it didn't help that every time he witnessed such interactions, a strange sensation bubbled within him. What was it, though…?

"As for Rider X ceasing to be your Servant," Kirei's thoughts shifted from his inner thoughts to his father's forcedly calm words, "It's the simplest solution. With him supposedly having gone rogue, the others won't suspect us of being affiliated with him, and he would be a sort of wild card to their plans like Berserker X."

As the Church was responsible for covering up any Grail-related incidents from the general public, Risei had handled the aftermath of the final two Servants' summoning. He himself had gently probed a traumatized young boy that had been seen fleeing from the general direction of the house. Through the use of certain herbs mixed into a sweet tea, the poor lad had told him of the serial killer butchering his family, painting the Magic Circle like at the other crime scenes, only this time, it had worked, and two powerful beings appearing, one of which tried to kill him with some monster while the other killed it and let him go. After he had cleansed the boy of the terrible experiences and left him in the care of an orphanage (the police wouldn't learn anything damning from him), Risei first confirmed the Servants' movements with the Spirit Board, then informed his master and son of the developments. From there, they determined Berserker X was now operating free of the killer and Caster.

In fact, this sparked an idea for Tokiomi on how they could let Kirei claim he was Servant-less while still retaining the use of both Servants.

"Yes, yes," Rider X rolled his optics, "the Lord Tohsaka went into great detail on how I am supposed to act." The Servant of the Mount was secretly grateful that he lacked a human's filthy anatomy. The transparency behind that little red buffoon's plans up till now would've long since made him regurgitate. Repeatedly. There were so many loose ends with Assassin's supposed death alone that any witness with half-decent common sense would be at least a little suspicious.

Then again, if the other Masters are anything like him, they might fall for that farce after all. Aristocrats had always made pitiful tacticians on Cybertron. The same rule appeared to apply for the magic community of this mudball as well.

Oh well. Let them keep thinking that Tohsaka is the cleverest among us for now. A hidden sneer played along Rider X's "lips." As long as he continues to underestimate me as a prideful brute full of bluster, I shall have free reign for my own plans.

Besides, watching that fleshbag stumble about when his plans are derailed will be quite the treat.

It was then that he noticed his Master observing him. Those blank eyes remained locked on the massive body of otherworldly metal, as though they were trying to peer through to the black soul within. So empty, like they await being filled by something. Inwardly, Rider X chuckled. Another curiosity to pass the time. You may prove to be interesting yet, Kirei Kotomine.

Seconds passed as the duo quietly accessed each other, then Kirei glanced to the side, seemingly at nothing. "Either way, we can't afford to be careless. Make sure one of you is always monitoring this Church."

"Understood," a slim dark-skinned woman replied, appearing from a swirl of black mist. Aside from the long purple hair, two large golden earrings and the twin knives strapped to her hip, she was almost exactly clothed like the recently departed Assassin. Right down to the skull-shaped mask covering her upper face.

"Who else had been observing the battle?" Kirei asked.

"I was able to sense four different familiars within the mansion's vicinity." Asako, also Assassin, looked to the side slightly. "Also… there may have been a Servant watching. But I'm not sure."

Father and son frowned in thought. "Berserker X's rebellion aside, all of the Servants have been summoned." The former pointed out. "So there ought to be at least five other Masters."

"But one wasn't there." Kirei concluded with a relatively heavy expression. "I had hoped that all of them would've watched the show."

Rider X stepped next to him, tilting his head. "The one that called forth the last two Servants for this War was a witless serial killer that appears to have stumbled upon a ritual and lost control of one of them almost immediately. It's doubtful that he even knew what is happening here."

"And at any rate," another voice chimed in, this belonging to yet another male Assassin, this one far larger and in black robes, "monitoring the headquarters of the Three Families is something any decent Master would do."

One more spirit appeared sitting in a pew, gnawing on his thumb. "If the last Master is really that dumb, then he wouldn't even consider keeping an eye out of an Assassin." He giggled lightly.

Rider X chuckled right back, watching the hall slowly grow fuller. "So assured in your abilities, even though one of your own is gone?"

"Losing that Hassan was like chopping off a finger to escape captivity," replied a short skull-faced spirit. "Thanks to his sacrifice, the other Masters believe that one of the two Assassins in this War is no longer a concern. We have escaped their sight."

By now, Kirei faced an entire room full of Assassins. "Indeed, he did not die in vain."

"Normally Heroic Spirits of the shadows, now we become the shadows themselves," As one, they intoned. Though many, they were all one of the Servants Kirei Kotomine had summoned long ago.

Nineteen different people had taken on the name Hassan-i-Sabbah over the years in the Middle East, and this one also carried the appellation, "Hassan of the Hundred Faces." A trait others would deem a terrible mental illness had become a powerful asset in life, moreso upon ascension to the Throne of Heroes. Zabaniya: "Delusional Illusion."

Rider X swept his gaze over the group, silently pleased. A Servant capable of dividing itself and becoming a high-stealth intelligence network; this was at least one part of the strategy he had absolutely no issues with. Even Soundwave may've killed for such an ability.

With that, he strode down the aisle, every Hassan in his path quickly shuffling to the side. Zayd had not been alone in his apprehension towards their "partner." But the extraterrestrial conqueror had no interest of crushing such useful black ants now. He had other things in mind. "I shall be taking my leave." He flicked his fingers behind him in dismissal. "If the need arises, you can contact me via the mental link we forged or through one of them. Otherwise, do not disturb me." Most such as Risei would be more than happy to see the arrogant, provocative Servant gone.

Kirei was not most of them. He just had this feeling that there was more to the arrogance and provocations than met the eye. Like Rider X was testing the waters around him in every moment. He had asked multiple questions about the other Masters and the history of the Grail Wars before, each time with a thoughtful gleam in those red optics.

The priest called out, "Don't cause too much of a ruckus out there. You wouldn't want to bite off more than you can chew…" his eyes narrowed as he uttered his Servant's True Name, "Megatron."

The onetime founder and tyrant of the Decepticon army turned around to see the Master one last time, teeth bared in an eager grin. Interesting indeed. Out loud, he said, "Have some faith, Kirei Kotomine. Isn't that the reason you carry that little trinket?" A single finger pointed like a spike at the cross around his neck.

Risei's eyebrows arched in anger but Rider X simply dispersed into silver wisps glittering with purple, a final chuckle echoing in the chamber.

Hassan of the Hundred Faces collectively breathed a mental sigh in relief. Never before had they called forth such a… powerful personality within their ranks. It seemed impossible.

Kirei felt no sting from the jab towards his faith. Rather, it piqued his interest because the veiled mockery appeared to be both a sort of probe and simple amusement.

Why does that resonate within me…? What is it about this being that both rankles me and fascinates me? He didn't know. And this provoked yet again a feeling in him he didn't recognize.

Risei for his part finally managed to regain control of his temper. Not for the first time did he wonder why God had burdened his devout son with such a Servant. …A test of his faith, perhaps. A quite grueling one, but those are written to be the most rewarding.

"The battle has come to us." The old priest smiled in satisfaction, unaware of his boy's misgivings. "The Fourth Holy Grail War is truly here. Perhaps these old eyes can bear witness to a miracle this time around."

But whatever enthusiasm Kirei might've felt, it wasn't towards the overseer's words.

-162:21:44

Kiritsugu took one last puff of smoke from the cigarette in his mouth, then put it out in a nearby trashcan on the streets of Shinto. He eyed the "24-hour HOTEL IN FUYUKI" that had taken him a while to find, then checked his watch. Iri and Saber ought to have landed at the airport by now. For a moment, he wondered how his wife would react to seeing the land that had birthed him for the first time in person. But such sentimentality was for another time, so he walked alone into the simple hotel without a single emotion inside himself.

The machine that is Kiritsugu Emiya confirmed his check-in and calmly took the elevator, briefly rolling his shoulders with a light wince as he slumped against the back wall. Twelve hours had passed since he had arrived in Fuyuki City ahead of half his team, after twelve more of flight (commercial no less), and before and during that time, he had spent nearly every waking moment crafting new tactics alongside his Servants and making preparations. Turns out, this addition of foreign Servants had opened a door to even more possibilities than he could've guessed. His whole body was sore from the combination of going over said preparations again and again, jetlag, and more strange dreams in what little sleep he gained.

But to say he wasn't pleased with the results would've been a lie. The Mage Killer's arsenal had expanded, and the other Masters might be in for a few surprises.

The elevator doors slid open with a ding, allowing the Master to step out onto the seventh floor. A little walking, and he was in front of room 703, where more tools for the War awaited him. Kiritsugu knocked a certain rhythm against the door while keeping his sight on the hall, then sent out a mental command.

Half a second later, the door opened partially, chain lock in place, for a young woman with short dark green hair and eyes to peek out. And in the second half, the air rippled as a familiar form materialized next to Kiritsugu. Assassin X nodded once, a sign that no enemies were nearby, to his Master, who in turn nodded to the woman whose only reaction to the Servant had been the raising of one eyebrow. She then closed the door, undid the lock, and reopened it to let them walk into the room. Both human and Servant did one last check, but the coast was clear.

Once inside, she refastened the locks and turned to look at first Assassin X, then Kiritsugu with economical movements. She was of average height, perhaps barely in her early twenties, the shinobi noted, dressed in simple black clothing, and had a face that was rather attractive even without a hint of artificial beauty. But the indifferent look would've scared away most Casanovas. And if that didn't work, the sidearm hidden in her jacket certainly would've.

"Maiya," their master said, "this is Assassin X, the other Servant I had told you about. Assassin X, this is Maiya Hisau. She's been my aide for over ten years now. You are both going to be assisting my mission until it's complete." The two sized each other up.

One stretched out an open hand. "Pleasure to be working with you," Assassin X said cordially.

Maiya eyed the hand for a moment before shaking it. "…Likewise." Her tone brokered no emotion, the grip was as firm as it needed to be. Overall, she gave off the air of a professional that had been on the battlefield so long she didn't remember a life off it. He'd seen souls like that before, fought them. But he thought he could sense loyalty in her. Strong loyalty.

As for Maiya, Kiritsugu had simply told her that this Servant was an unexpected, but versatile addition to his arsenal. The mask and headband kept her from distinguishing his face, but at least that single visible eye wasn't ogling her like that of most males. A fellow professional judging by his behavior otherwise. She could respect that.

Kiritsugu had already moved to do a preliminary survey of the gear lying on one of the two beds. "It's all the equipment he had requested," Maiya explained to the curious Servant. She kept her gaze on the man that had saved her, instructed her in the arts of killing and some magecraft, and become the single most important thing in her life. "Madame arrived with Saber a while ago." She walked further into the room, Assassin X following her. "The way they're traveling together, the other Masters are bound to think Saber's her Servant."

"Excellent." That was the plan that Iri, Kiritsugu and the Servants had agreed on, surprisingly unanimously. While Saber would accompany her as had been his original plan, giving off the illusion that she was the Master, Assassin X would primarily work with the Mage Killer and Maiya, operating in the shadows to dispatch the other Masters while they were focused on the "beautiful flowers," as a teasing Assassin X had called them. Poor Saber had been flustered by his and Iri's antics, but she had no problems with swearing to protect the homunculus' life with all her might.

Kiritsugu must've been crazy, but he had felt honestly appreciative of her conviction for a single instant before returning to other matters.

As for Assassin X, he would assist in hunting down the Masters but provide support if needed. For he had proven himself to be extremely proficient in nearly any scenario Kiritsugu could imagine. Expert of Many Specializations… the name of that Skill didn't seem enough to do Kakashi Hatake's abilities justice. Even someone like the Mage Killer could admit he had practically stumbled upon a goldmine of boons by summoning this Heroic Spirit.

Now, if only it hadn't been for that one little detail…

"There was a massive surge of mana a while ago," Maiya's report shook him out of his musings, "and something happened at the Tohsaka residence last night." She activated a video player on the floor next to the TV. The screen booted up to show a blurry black-and-white image of a dark Servant in front of a pedestal. "Here's what was recorded."

Maiya utilized bat familiars with a certain feature no ordinary magus would ever consider: miniature video cameras and speakers for recording what they encountered. Kiritsugu had taught her a long time ago that illusionary wards magi sometimes employed weren't designed for affecting electronic equipment most of the time. Sure, the gear slowed down the familiars a bit, but the footage was of decent quality and most importantly reliable.

Both newcomers watched the masked Servant get tenderized by the green female and then vaporized by the golden male, listening to the dialogue and impact of weapons. Kiritsugu cupped his chin; he had an idea of what this had really been. "What do you two think?"

"It's too good to be real." "This looks like a setup." Those were Maiya and Assassin X's respective answers. They eyed each other for a moment, then the latter beckoned with his hand. Maiya continued, "There's too short a gap in time between Assassin entering the grounds and Lancer X's assault. An Assassin's Personal Skill is specifically meant to avoid a direct clash. And no partner appearing to aid him is also strange."

"Not to mention Lancer X herself suddenly appearing out of nowhere like that," Assassin X added. "It was like she had been lying in wait, hidden from any outsiders until she struck. But in that case, she could've silently cut him down the moment he set foot in the garden. It seems Tohsaka had been expecting Assassin's arrival."

Maiya picked up on the meaning of the Servant's other words. "And you think he wanted it to be a public execution."

A nod. "The outcome of this encounter seems a little too obvious, don't you think?"

"I do." Kiritsugu was very satisfied with his pupil and Servant's judgement; they had voiced all the thoughts that had come to him while viewing this. "But a crucial part of Grail battle is keeping your Servant's identity a secret. Why would he risk exposing both of his Servants when there was such a great gap between Assassin and either one of them?"

"And why did the Archer step in at all?" Maiya wondered out loud. Even from the first viewing, that part puzzled her. The female had every advantage over the intruder; killing him alone would've required no aid from her partner.

"Tohsaka must be planning something, and one of his Servants might be a little more willful than the other," Assassin X offered as possibilities. What little he'd made out from the recorded dialogue suggested that Archer had acted of his own will. Technically, that sort of insubordination could work in their favor, but considering how much destruction he unleashed in just a few seconds…

Not an encouraging thought. "Regardless of their partnership," the Servant started, drawing both humans' attention, "I think we can all agree it was planned beforehand that Assassin be killed in a public manner last night. And that begs the question: why?" A flicker went across his Master's face, and he nodded. The two were on the same page.

And two soon became three. "You believe Assassin's death was staged." Once again, Maiya quickly found herself catching onto the stranger's train of thought. It surprised her a bit. "But even through the perception of a familiar, that death seemed genuine."

Assassin X lifted his right hand, fingers curled upwards, to shoulder level. "I know more than a few ways of creating the illusion of me or someone else being killed. Some convincing enough to fool even a master pathologist." She saw Kiritsugu give a nod in confirmation. "It stands to reason that another Servant would have similar abilities. Especially since he shares my class."

The leader in turn had mulling over these possibilities himself. But a few pieces of the puzzle still eluded him. "Maiya," his protégé focused on him, "what happened to Assassin's Master?"

"He headed for the Church and requested its protection, which the judge agreed to. According to him, his other Servant rebelled and severed his contract with him."

"Convenient." Kiritsugu scoffed. "What's the Master's name?"

"Kirei Kotomine."

The two words made the trained hunter stiffen for a moment. Both Assassin X and Maiya noticed it, but only one realized the significance. His dull eyes sharpened with caution. "Maiya, have a familiar monitor the church."

"Is that okay? The church is a neutral zone, no active Masters are allowed to confront each other."

"Keep the familiar at a distance. Just close enough to keep an eye on it, but not so much the priest would notice."

Assassin X recognized this tension. Both he and Saber were thoroughly briefed on the preliminary reports of the other Masters and their capabilities. Tokiomi Tohsaka, powerful fire and jewel magus aristocrat; Kariya Matou, runaway at a young age having now crammed whatever magic tricks his family had to make a half-decent champion (though Kakashi advised caution with him and whatever Servants he might be working with "Desperation can be a powerful force."); Kayneth El-Melloi Archibald, a prideful scholar likely believing he is taking part in some fancy game but still has enough knowledge and skill to be troublesome, maybe more than Tohsaka…

And the Executor of the church, Kirei Kotomine. Every single time Kiritsugu made any mention of him, it was with a far higher degree of wariness than all the rest put together. Narrowed eyes, twitching of the fingers, tension in the words… if he wasn't scared of Kotomine, then he was very, very wary of him.

And after looking through more of his history, the Servants began to understand why. Kirei was born with Magic Circuits despite his father or mother not having any preexisting connection to the magic of this world, had been a class valedictorian after skipping two years, yet instead of continuing his studies, he followed in Risei Kotomine's footsteps (after changing position three times within the chruch's institution).

"Alchemy, Necromancy, Summoning, Divination, Spiritual Healing…" Artoria read through the list of various branches of Thaumaturgy the man had undertaken. He remembered her eyeing the freelancer with a bit of confusion. "This skillset is impressive, Kiritsugu, and if he has been trained in combat by the church, then he could be formidable, but I fail to see how this priest warrants more caution than the Archibald lecturer."

Assassin X studied the dossier a bit more, and it took a little thinking, but then he realized. "It's not just the skillset…" he voiced his thoughts, perhaps forestalling an argument between the two (wouldn't have been the first) as they turned to him, "it's the fact that they're incomplete. Take another look." He ushered the King of Knights over towards his copy and pointed out key parts in the text. "See what each of these branches have in common?"

Her jade eyes narrowed at the targeted words. "…He hasn't truly mastered any of them?" A shake of his head. "Why? Was it because he simply loses interest in them? Some of my knights and soldiers would first attempt to master a sword or spear as their primary weapon, only to change their minds later. The same for people that had the opportunities to find a different apprenticeship than the one they originally had."

"That would make sense if it happened at the beginning of his academics," he argued, "but he kept going. And it's not like there was something stopping him. At any of these disciplines, Kirei Kotomine could've finished his studies far quicker than most, but then he would always just quit right before reaching the level of master. It's like…" Assassin X's fingers drummed against the file as he searched for a good comparison. "Like a runner going for the hundred-meter dash, overtaking all of the others, and then coming to a complete stop inches from the finish line before just walking off the track." Saber's eyes widened as she grew to see the concern. Himself a bit unsettled, the male Servant turned to the one who summoned him. "He's a wild card because you can't predict his movements. Am I right?"

Kiritsugu nodded once even as he continued to gaze out the window, appreciative that at least one could follow his thought process. "My theory is that this man casts aside everything he learns because it brings him no joy. No matter how much effort he's put into it. I… I don't know why the Grail would choose him, or what he might be after. Therefore, Saber, Assassin X…" Both Servants rose from their seats while their Master turned to face him with a merciless expression.

"Do not underestimate Kirei Kotomine. Should either of you see an opportunity, eliminate him without hesitation."

That order still resonated in the Copy Ninja's mind as it tried to puzzle out the situation. Right, the dossier had also mentioned that Tokiomi Tohsaka had taken Kotomine on as an apprentice for three years until Kotomine had received his Command Seals. From there, the two had severed all ties.

Or had they…?

"All right. Will do." Maiya had yet to learn more about the competition, so she was still in the dark about this man's threat level. A part of her ached over how the Heroic Spirit appeared completely unsurprised about the behavior of the man that she had dedicated her entire being to, but she pushed it down. What mattered most was helping Kiritsugu see his dream come to fruition. Her thoughts and emotions were irrelevant.

While his associates waded through their own musings, Kiritsugu moved back to the extensive, fresh off the rack hardware Maiya had procured. Among the benefits of him having been a freelancer all these years were solid contacts for armament and more than sufficient funds to acquire them. And spending the last decade in someone else's mansion had kept him from taxing the latter.

Now, as he slowly began to inspect each piece of equipment, it felt like all that time with Iri and Ilya, where he hadn't needed to be a relentless hunter of arrogant mages, where he could at least convince himself however briefly that he was a normal, decent man, faded away. Calico M950. Walther WA 2000 with AN/PVS-4 and Elcan Specter IR thermal scope. Steyr Aug A1. M67. Model 7290 Flashbangs. Smoke grenades. C2 plastic explosives.

The tools of the machine that is Kiritsugu Emiya, the Mage Killer.

Assassin X noted the trained, precise way of how the man wielded each piece of the arsenal, accompanied by the woman's commentary on certain details, reminiscing of how veteran shinobi like him would perform at least one thorough inspection of their gear prior to any mission. Younger novices would often make the mistake of simply going through their jutsu, confident that would be sufficient to survive. But here, there wasn't any sign of potions or scrolls or other magical artifacts. Though he had never actually seen let alone wielded firearms before, the Grail had provided him with basic understanding behind the science. Impressive in their own way, and if half of what Kiritsugu told me is true about this world's magic community, devastating to those who don't give them enough credit.

A tiny shudder passed through him as he imagined what these weapons could do back on his world. Genin, chunin, even jonin level ninja could fall at the hands of a powerless person with one of those and the proper training. How on earth could anyone dismiss such a creation? Are the magi here really that assured in the fruits of their studies?

While aiming the Walther at an imaginary target, Kiritsugu asked, "And the one I left with you, Maiya?"

"Here." She inclined her head towards the lone case that rested on the opposite bed. Putting aside the rifle, the Master moved this rosewood closer to him and undid the clasps, revealing one weapon that was completely unique to him: the Thompson Contender Custom, Kiritsugu Emiya's Mystic Code.

As he slowly, almost reverently (something rather unnatural for a man that prided himself on pragmatism, Assassin X considered) pulled it out of the case, the Heroic Spirit in the room sensed a ripple in the air around the weapon. An odd piece… Were it in a holster, the Copy Ninja may've mistaken it for a dagger. It appeared in design to be capable of holding only one shot, yet the size and length of the barrel indicated it was for a very large caliber.

And even without the Sharingan active, a strange feeling prickled in the back of his skull as his sight fell upon the bullets neatly arrayed inside the case. Something was different about them, he would bet his eye on that.

Kiritsugu for his part weighed the familiar handgun in his grasp, noting how his fingers still remembered every last little detail of the handle, the hammer, the trigger. His pondering went to his daughter, coupled with the uncomfortable question of whether or not he would remember her the same way.

Then his index finger squeezed the spool to release the chamber lock, allowing him to pull out the spent shell. He then quickly snatched up one of the Origin Rounds -his true secret weapon- and slid it into the now open slot, old reflexes guiding every movement within his limbs. The chamber snapped shut with a flick of his wrist, and Kiritsugu pointed the ready Contender straight ahead.

"…Two seconds," he muttered in slight disappointment. "I'm out of practice."

"…Yeah." Maiya's reply wasn't quite focused as usual, as her attention was currently on a certain organ open to see. Assassin X had closed his right eye and moved aside his headband to free his Noble Phantasm. Maiya peered slightly curious despite herself at the unusual eye, but he didn't notice.

…What is inside those rounds? Kakashi wondered at the energy within the raised weapon. Did he infuse pieces of his own chakra into them? How? …Why?

Part of him wanted to ask, part of him wondered if this was the sort of question best left unanswered.

Kiritsugu paid no mind to what watched him as he removed the round and placed both pieces back inside the case; he'd already gotten used to (and developed a respect for) that peculiar asset. His thoughts were elsewhere. "That Walther weighs more than Ilya. But she's already eight years old…" He knew these thoughts, precious though his little princess was, were a distraction. He knew he should focus on the conflicts ahead. He knew he should compartmentalize such things just as he used to, before the Einzberns had approached him. And yet, it felt so hard.

Kakashi replaced his protector to its usual spot, sympathetic to his Master's concerns. It's always something else when you go to battle with nothing to lose and when you go to battle with a loved one awaiting you. He would've said something, but what happened next made him raise an eyebrow.

Maiya closed the distance and slid her arms around his neck, prompting him to rise from his kneeling spot and turn around to her. The woman continued to hold her close even as she said, "Please concentrate on the here and now." She then pulled his head in for a deep kiss. "Don't let yourself be distracted by other things right now." Then came another kiss.

For a moment, Assassin X's mind flashed to certain… events he had… read about. …Okay. More than just strong loyalty, then. He felt a little awkward as a witness right now.

Then concern rose for Irisviel's sake. He'd come to view the artificial woman as a good friend, so how could he rightly cover for any sort of adultery her husband may have been committing? Even if said husband was his Master?

But another detail struck Assassin X as he peered closer; only Maiya seemed to show any passion in this interaction. But Kiritsugu appeared as emotionless as when he interacted with anyone else. He may've accepted the kiss, but there was no sign of the definite passion that would emerge from the man around Irisviel or Ilyasviel right now. Is it one-sided, then? But why would he allow it? Is it simply for her sake? Or is there more behind this?

Ah, I know a possible way to discern the truth… his hand drifted for his back pouch-

Only to freeze up when Kiritsugu broke the kiss to shoot him a warning glare. The Servant quickly threw up both hands and put on his eye-smile as if to say, "Don't mind me."

On some level, the gunslinging "magus" was grateful for the actions of two of his most valuable assets. They helped him clear his mind, organize his thoughts. He gently moved free of the embrace of the woman that helped him stay the Mage Killer, a pang of guilt surfacing when her eyes inadvertently showed a hint of pain at this rejection.

He didn't want to hurt her. But what she may've desired from him, he had already given long ago to another. And they both knew it.

So, instead of apologizing, he stoically said, "Maiya. I've made a few more strategies that should prove useful down the road. They come from interesting discoveries we had after I last contacted you." Kiritsugu nodded his chin towards his Servant from the Village Hidden in the Leaves. "Assassin X can bring you up to speed a lot better than I can."

He turned slightly to sit down on the bed, placed a hand on the case containing the Contender and looked fully at Assassin X. "Fill her in on everything we've discussed as brief as possible. The battles will begin as soon as the sun is down."

"Right." Assassin X tilted his head towards the door. "It'd easier with some demonstrations, and for that, we'd need a little more elbow room." Kiritsugu nodded his assent but made no move to get up. Kakashi quickly shot an apologetic glance towards Maiya; as much as this was necessary, he felt bad for taking her away from the man she was clearly devoted to.

Maiya registered this look, as well as an ache within at this indirect rejection, but she pushed it away and simply nodded in acknowledgement. It didn't matter. "The roof is easy to access and ought to be easy to access." She headed for the door, eyeing the Heroic Spirit. "We're going now?"

"Yep." He extended his hand towards the exit, a sign of him allowing her to move first. She accepted it without batting an eye. An otherwise redundant act of chivalry, but she got the feeling it was simply meant to show respect. One tool to another, she supposed. Well, it's a lot better than being hounded by idiot flirts.

One after the other they made to leave the room, allowing their leader a bit more time alone to prepare. His fingers drifted together as he thought about the coming battles.

But before they were completely gone, Kiritsugu called out one last order. "And don't even think about that damn book just because my back's turned, Assassin X." Simply mentioning it promptly fouled his mood. Anger: another effective way to calm his thoughts.

Book? Maiya wondered, looking between his arched back and the suddenly shaking Servant. What book?

"I trust you have at least some self-control…" A lethality of the same magnitude as his Origin Rounds slipped into the Master's tone, "right?"

Assassin X stiffened before hurriedly putting on a jovial tone. "OhofcourseIdoImaprofessionalShouldnttakeallthatlonglater!" And he swiftly ushered out a visibly perplexed Maiya as gently as he could, closed the door and shot an almost pleading look towards her. "The roof's a good place as any. Shall we?" A light tremor betrayed the coolness of his voice.

Maiya blinked. "…Alright." And they set down a rather brisk pace for the elevator. Definitely not like most guys, this one.

Meanwhile, Assassin X mentally released a sigh that reverberated across the insides of his skull while pushing the elevator button. 'Saber, my friend,' he sent a message over the psychic link Irisviel had helped them establish, 'we are in for one wild time.'

'…I don't think I want to know,' was her blunt, if slightly humored reply.

-154:44:37

Irisviel had thoroughly enjoyed her time in Fuyuki since their arrival a couple of hours ago. The sights, the sounds, the smells- yes, even that scent of ripe fish from near the sea, it had all been an incredible experience considering it was her very first time setting foot out into the wide world. To think, she had been so shy, huddling up in the car, but then Saber had offered to take a walk with her. And from there, well, it just felt like a locked door had opened up for her, allowing her to truly experience the world Kiritsugu knew.

Now she stood at the border of the beach, white fluffy clothes shielding her from the cool winds that played with the long strands of her hair, red eyes shimmering along with the moonlight reflected upon the water's surface. Tonight was a full moon, bringing the ambience to its fullest potential. "We seem to have taken too much time in the city," Saber commented in an apologetic tone behind her.

"No, no," Iri continued to smile, "this is beautiful. Like a mirror of the night sky." Climbing down to the soft sand, he took off her boots and stockings, allowing her bare feet to absorb the sensations. The light roar of the waves as they went back and forth, the coolness of the water splashing against her toes, the homunculus danced along the water. Every single moment was a gift to her. "I never thought," she said, stepping by the waves, "that walking through a new town alongside a gentleman would be so much fun." She played with a pebble in her hand.

"So, I was satisfactory as a gentleman?" Saber asked with an almost playful smile from where she stood by the border, clad in a pristine black suit. Unlike Assassin X or any other Servant, she appeared to be incapable of assuming a spirit form. This of course meant that her Master would have to provide more mana all the time, but it helped with the illusion that she was Irisviel's Servant.

Besides, Irisviel had seized this as an opportunity to pick out some outfits for Saber, much to her bewilderment and slight concern.

She remembered Assassin X joking, "How sweet of you to provide your wife with a life-size dolly," to Kiritsugu at the time. And how quickly her face drained of blood at the words.

The sardonic reply, "Anything for her," hadn't exactly relieved her of her worries either.

Sometimes, she had felt like those two ganged up to tease her. And even Irisviel joined in from time to time. The King of Knights was not used to being picked on.

But it cleared the tension a bit and helped Irisviel smile. "To a tee," was the white-haired woman's answer to her question. "You made a first-class knight today."

The blonde bowed to her. "I am honored, dear princess." This made Irisviel giggle as she turned back to the moonlit horizon.

"Saber," she asked after a little bit, "do you like the sea?"

"Not really," the female Servant answered truthfully. "In my time, where I lived, the sea would always bring enemies for us. I cursed it but never admired it."

"That's a shame. You're a woman, the same as me. But you never had the chance to enjoy yourself when you became King Arthur." Saber hummed in simple acknowledgement; she had understood what she had to sacrifice when she took on the crown. And she didn't regret casting aside her life as a woman.

Irisviel's next words made her think, though. "Assassin X seems able to enjoy himself."

"Yes," Saber's mood briefly soured as she recalled one particular pleasure they had uncovered about her partner.

However, it faded away as she remembered the rest of the man. How he always stepped in during the brief periods of strategizing when she would argue with Kiritsugu about one plan or suggestion before t escalated; how he fought in sparring matches with her, displaying incredible abilities beyond what she would've expected from one of that class; and how he made time for her once or twice where they could simply talk a bit about their homes. Assassin had listened with rapt attention about Britain, and the Hidden Leaf Village had sounded like quite an interesting place from what he had described.

(Artoria would've attempted to sample one or two servings of this "ramen" dish he had told her among his stories of a certain "knuckle-headed ninja" he had trained, but it seemed unbecoming of how a proper knight should act in the presence of a lady.

She had barely managed to hide her stomach growling from the enticing smells.)

Before she knew it, Saber was asking out loud, "How does he do it?"

Irisviel stopped splashing her feet for a bit. "Hmm? Who does what?"

The knight quickly cleared her throat before speaking again. "…Assassin X. I have come to recognize a seasoned warrior when I see one, and even with his relaxed demeanor, I have a sense that he has seen at least as much conflict as I have. That he has suffered. The way he said that creed of his," Saber could still see the steel in the Heroic Spirit's eye as he declared, "Those who abandon the mission are trash and those who abandon their comrades are even worse trash." Those words were carved into his very being, she just knew it.

Then she continued, gazing at the wide sea. "But he can still look casual, even joke, like he doesn't always need to take things seriously. How do you think he can do that, Irisviel?"

The lady eyed her knight with curiosity, feeling like she detected a wistful note in the Servant's words. "Maybe it's his way of dealing with the hardships," she finally said. Saber looked towards her again in inquiry, prompting her to continue. "I'm not really an expert in emotions, but I think that Kakashi does feel the burdens of his life, but he chooses to keep a relaxed appearance in spite of them." She lifted the back of her left hand to gaze at the Command Seal painted there.

"Alright then," Kiritsugu said in his usual monotone, a small suitcase at his side. The four of them stood in the front yard of the Einzbern manor, him and Assassin X about to board the car for the airport. "If everything goes the way it should, we'll meet again in Fuyuki."

"I'm already looking forward to it," Irisviel said, still wearing her usual Einzbern dress. Saber, currently in a white shirt and dress pants as an experiment, simply nodded, still throwing a cold look towards her sheepish partner.

It melded well with the stink-eye their Master shot from the side at him.

Noises could be heard from further away, but they collectively ignored it. Those were simply further preparations for the Grail War. The car rumbled behind the two men, as though the machine itself was waiting to leave. Iri moved to wrap her arms around her love one more time, which he returned with some slight hesitation (Kiritsugu the husband warring with the Mage Killer), then they separated.

That's when Assassin X's eye widened. "Ah, right," he said, his hand gently grabbing hold of the homunculus' right wrist. "Almost forgot…" was all he murmured as the other hand rooted around in the pouch strapped to the back of his hip.

Then before either of the other two could voice a protest or demand an explanation, he fished out a stoppered vial. "Please hold still, milady," the silver-haired Servant requested as he pulled out the cork and dipped his finger into the vial, withdrawing it to reveal a smudge of red paint on the tip. "If we want the other Masters to be fooled, we need to make the illusion as authentic as possible." Gunshots rang out in the background, but no one worried.

Kiritsugu nodded his assent, mentally kicking himself. Why didn't I consider that?

In a few swift strokes, both of Irisviel's hands now bore near-exact replicas of the Command Seals the real Master carried. "There," Assassin X inspected his handiwork one last time, "that should do the trick. And the paint shouldn't come off too easily, but just in case, don't scrub your hands too thoroughly, Irisviel."

"But that's unhygienic, Kakashi." The two shared a little laugh at the joke, with even the more stoic pair cracking small smiles.

Then Saber sobered. "By that logic, are you going to wear gloves to hide your own Seals, Kiritsugu?"

"Most likely. Either that or apply fake skin…" he trailed off in thought before catching himself. "For that matter, remember to pack mittens, Iri."

"Just in case the paint wears off?"

"That, and winters in Japan tend to be cold." A little smile played along his lips, which she returned in twice the size. Homunculi needn't worry too much about temperature, not to mention Germany had its own share of cold winters, but it was a sweet, sporadic sentiment. Another hug, then he swiftly made for the car.

Assassin X made to follow as well, but not before stretching out his open hand towards Saber. "Safe travels, partner."

Saber clasped the hand with her own and shook, wondering when the last time had been that she had made such an equal exchange with someone. Out loud, she replied, "You as well…" she smiled at him, "partner." He returned the smile in his usual manner.

Then the men left while the women went back into the mansion to complete their own packing. Irisviel was already giddily considering what sort of combinations she and Saber could wear.

Iri couldn't help but smile at the markings on her hands. One an ornate cross, the other a red version of the symbol on a certain ninja's forehead protector. They were obviously powerless, but on some tiny level, it warmed her heart to bear them. It was as though they connected her to Kiritsugu via the identical markings on his own hands. "…I think Kakashi acts with humor and kindness so that he remembers what they feel like. So that he won't forget them." She gazed up at the moon. "He's a good man. Even if I think he would disagree."

"Perhaps," Saber replied thoughtfully, recalling how Assassin X never once bragged about what he could do. His explanation of the Sharingan and those "jutsu" had all been extensive and factual, without any real self-praise. Humble seems to be his default state, the Servant of the Sword thought appreciatively. She respected one who was aware of his limits.

Then her eyes noticed the way Iri kept admiring the faux-Seals. "Irisviel," the addressee's head shifted towards the addresser, "you'd rather enjoy this sort of time with Kiritsugu, wouldn't you?" Saber wasn't offended at all; on the contrary, she thought the genuine bond between the pair was a wonderful thing.

But to her confusion, Irisviel's expression saddened. "He… couldn't do that." She smiled again, but this was a more melancholy one. "Those feelings would cause him pain."

Saber was shocked. Cause him pain? "I thought he was happy being with you?" she asked, trying to make sense of why this sort of joy would be painful to anyone.

"Oh, he would," Irisviel answered, returning to her fixture upon the full moon. "That's why he can't do it. Being happy is painful for him."

Saber frowned, trying to understand this logic. Her Master continued to perplex her. At first, he had simply appeared to be a misogynistic soldier with cold eyes. Then she got to watch him be a loving family man. Then she had learned more of his pragmatism and the yet idealistic wish of saving the world. And now she learned that happiness caused Kiritsugu Emiya pain? This was all a bit much for one single man. She wasn't sure what to think.

Then her features softened; there might be someone else who could help her make sense of these conflicting details. 'Assassin X,' the Servant thought in a certain manner, as though she had tied a scroll with a message to an arrow, nocked it, and then released the bowstring to send it at great speeds to her fate-chosen ally, 'if I were to tell you that Kiritsugu apparently finds joy painful, even when said joy is being with Irisviel, what would you say?'

Only a few seconds passed before his voice reverberated in her ears like he was standing right next to her and not somewhere else in the city. '…I would say that answers a few questions in hindsight.' The outlandish Heroic Spirit must've sensed her oncoming question because he continued. 'I've noticed small… winces from him whenever he interacts with his family. Hesitations before hugging or kissing. A few other actions more recently that I won't go into detail now. I'm no psychiatrist, Saber, but I've got a hunch a part of our dour Master believes he doesn't deserve to be happy.'

Saber weighed this theory and the evidence to herself while Irisviel wandered a bit more in the water. She wondered if the signs Assassin X had mentioned were really so obvious. Or was that he simply paid better attention than her to the people around them? Something about this possibility prodded a certain memory to light:

"The king does not understand the hearts of men."

She held back a wince. 'I… may have an idea of what that's like.' The sentence's vagueness had been intentional; as much as Saber had grown to like Assassin X, there were still a good many things she didn't wish to share with anyone anytime soon.

'Then I suppose the three of us are in good company.' Thankfully, he didn't press her. They shared a sad little chuckle over their mental link before Saber's eyes widened marginally as she registered a particular sensation. 'You sense it too, right?' Assassin X's voice was now as sharp as the projectiles he carried.

'Yes.' Saber quickly stepped across the sand to where her "Master" was still standing. 'Alert Kiritsugu. Irisviel and I shall act as discussed.'

'Affirmative. Watch yourselves.'

The homunculus didn't blink even as a grip came on her arm. She had felt it too. "An enemy Servant?"

"Yes." Saber nodded beside her. "Roughly a hundred meters away, in the shadows. He seems to be extending an invitation."

"How nice." Irisviel's mouth remained a straight line. "He's either trying to lure us into a trap or confront us head-on." Then she smiled at the other woman. "Shall we oblige him?"

Saber returned the smile. "But of course." Thus Irisviel quickly slipped on her footwear (and activated the little tracking device Kiritsugu had instructed her to carry at all times), and the two made for the unknown Servant announcing themselves.

Kariya groaned, shuffling along the darker parts of the city as he moved ever closer. He too had noticed the surge of mana, the unmistakable sign that a Servant was issuing a challenge. Even with the Crest Worms making their presence agonizingly known inside him, he had enough sense to keep moving. A familiar would be sent to watch the area, then if either of those Servants were to come within his sight… either one belonging to him…

His left arm was suddenly lifted and draped over something, distracting the reluctant "magus" from the rage stirring within him. A long piece of wood was then held in front of his nose. "It is only a loan for now," Caster X said while adjusting the arm over his cloaked shoulders, "but this ought to ease your load a bit more."

Kariya smiled at the elderly Servant and accepted the staff. "Thanks, but a guy looking like a homeless cripple being carried by a fairytale wizard? That might attract an audience."

Caster X gave him a playful wink. "Only if they bother to pay attention." The Master then noticed a slight shimmering in the air around them, like a Bounded Field of some sort. He understood, this was meant to trick the senses of any passerby.

"Well, in that case," Kariya hissed a bit while adjusting his footwork but nodded gratefully to his support, silently telling him that he was ready to move on. So, they walked together.

And sure enough, his staggering was much less strained than before. Not only because of Caster X's deceptively strong grip that kept him upright, but also a strange feeling that emanated from the Heroic Spirit of another world. The staff in his hand, thunking along the ground with each step, made him feel like he was a strong confident mage as he traced his fingers along the irregularities of its surface, not some broken beehive of a wannabe. The pain within didn't disappear but lessened, a welcome reprieve. Even the Worms inside of him moved about with less aggression, almost as if they were… cowed by Caster X's presence.

Berserker snarled and growled about somewhere behind them but made no move to charge ahead towards the enemy; his partner had counseled caution, stating that this Servant's invitation was almost certainly a trap, his Master had agreed with the assessment, and much to their mutual relief, the knight wrapped in darkness had acquiesced to a more careful approach with only a grunt.

As the trio walked with better speed through Fuyuki's allies than the leader would normally manage in his crippled state, Kariya's mind, relieved of the worst agony, trailed back to the moment he first met these two companions…

Both members of the Matou family could see someone standing within the Magic Circle after the flash of light. But even when the smoke had completely dissipated, it was next to impossible to make out any details.

There was a man, but he was dressed head to toe in sleek black armor, and even that was barely visible. A black aura seemed to enshroud his entire being like a mist, leaving it hard to judge more than general height and size. The only trait noticeable was the red glow from the visor of the helmet the knight carried, giving off a feeling of rage. As it peered down towards the that had called him, Kariya's already unsteady legs came exceedingly close to giving out. This Servant, the Berserker that had answered his desperate call, horrified him beyond measure.

"Well, look at that, Kariya," Zouken snickered to his panicking "son", "you summoned the Servant you sought. There might be some worth to you after all."

But the novice Matou found no comfort from the backhanded praise as he succumbed to a panicked coughing fit. A part of him fell into despair. Here he had gone and achieved his first task, and the Crest Worms had already taken away half of his limbs, he could barely keep himself from keeling over, and Berserker's violent gaze made him like a bug about to be crushed. How can I save-

Then a primal roar that cut through his thoughts rang throughout the chamber, following by an old, deep male voice. "Back, dark spirit!"

Kariya looked up and gaped in shock. Zouken's pitch-black orbs widened. The darkness emanating from Berserker had obstructed more than just his true form, it had also kept them from noticing that another had been standing behind the Servant of Madness the entire time.

A man of average height stood now at the edge of the Magic Circle, clad in long bluish-gray robes that a monk may have worn. A wide-brimmed hat with a long tip that was bent backwards covered much of his head, leaving a long grey beard and white teeth that currently gritted in exertion the only facial features visible. Both hands clutched a long, brown staff with one end showing small stubs of branches. Said end was pointing straight at Berserker, somehow keeping him from attacking despite his growl-laced efforts. To Kariya, he looked like a stereotypical wizard from old myths or children's tales, such as the ones he had read long ago before he grew disgusted with his family's practices.

"Who sent you here?" the unknown man demanded in a powerful tone despite the age within. "Have you inflicted such injuries upon that man? What is your purpose?" Berserker only snarled back at him, gauntleted hands stretching for his target like claws. But he showed no fear, thrusting forward with his staff. "Answer me!"

An invisible force pushed against the black knight, making stumble a step back. But he planted his feet and let out another howl, striking the ground hard enough to send a tremor through the floor that rattled everyone. Kariya fell forward but still watched in awe as Berserker swiftly collected some rock shards in one hand and threw them at the other Servant (yes, a Servant, Kariya could tell from the stats surrounding him) within one second. The darkened projectiles soared like arrows, forcing the old man to jump to the side as they collapsed part of the wall behind him, yet he swung his staff upwards, muttering something, while the tip glowed. A burst of light forced the approaching Berserker to a screeching stop, more rocks ready to be hurled.

"W-wait, Berserker!" Kariya finally managed to call out, stretching his arm out desperately. For a moment, he thought he would need a Command Seal to keep the rabid Servant from tearing apart the whole basement (gratifying though that image would be). The way the blasted creatures inside him went about increased his desperation.

Fortunately, it wasn't needed. Both Servants just paused all of a sudden before another attack could be made from either side. They said nothing, made no movements, they simply looked slightly upwards in silence.

Finally, the wizard murmured, "So, we are to be allies, then?" Berserker for his part threw back his head and began to howl like an agitated wolf, the sound bouncing all along the walls of the basement, when the other Heroic Spirit planted his staff in front of him and chanted something else. The broken branches atop glowed for a brief moment while the knight ceased his noise, actually relaxing from his usual feral posture.

Staff tapping along the stone, the wizard moved a bit closer to the knight, he in turn not attacking. "Such madness… such rage…" the former's voice was softer, more compassionate than before, Kariya could barely hear him. "What could have driven a man with your prowess to the near beast you are now?" Berserker only rumbled something in reply.

"Aaaa… ur…" None could be sure what he was saying or even if he was trying to speak.

The old man's head turned towards Kariya, and Berserker copied his action with unexpected calm. "You are the one that summoned us both, are you not?" Unable to even sit up, the man could only manage a weak nod. "You are the Master of us both, Berserker and Caster X." The man had moved his staff to his left hand and gestured from the other Servant to himself with his free right one. "Two of the fourteen Servants that have arrived for this War."

"F-fourteen?" Kariya repeated in shock. He tried to move his trembling hands in a vain attempt to push himself upright, tiny beasts wriggling across his skin, but only one arm worked at the best of times. He looked upon the ground, disgusted at his own weakness.

"Such pain. But I may be able to assist." Then he felt a firm but gentle grip on his left shoulder and heard something uttered in a language he didn't recognize. But whatever it did, the Worms suddenly grew still, and strength flooded his body. He tried to get up again, and this time, both arms and both legs followed his will. The Matou "mage" rose slowly to his full height, amazed at this development, and found himself looking into Caster X's face.

It was an old one, lined with many years, heavily covered in grey hair from all sides, but the hat no longer obscured the blue eyes this Servant possessed. Under bushy grey brows, they shined with wisdom and gentle compassion, enough that Kariya wanted to weep at the kindness shown to him, and even when the hand released his shoulder, he managed to stay upright of his own power. "Th-thank you," he said; even his breathing no longer felt like his throat would set on fire with each piece of air.

He smiled kindly. "It is the least I can do for my Master." Kariya's scarred face turned puzzled, causing the Servant of Spells to gesture towards his hands. "Take a look." He obediently looked down saw to his shock that both of his hands had Command Seals. The right jagged ones he was familiar with, but the left was a strange letter unlike any language he knew from his writing travels. Berserker remained unmoving rumbling at his spot.

Then a dark chuckle ruined whatever hope he was starting to get. "My my," Zouken sneered as he drew closer, "you actually manage to bring about two Servants, and quite powerful ones as well, my boy. You might save that girl after all." His smirk grew more sadistic. "Assuming you don't rot away from the mana cost-"

"Be silent!" Caster X's stern voice slashed through his taunts just as the long sword he drew from his side cut through the air. The entire blade glowed a holy blue, its tip pointing at the now very still Zouken's large forehead. "I do not know what sort of foul creature you may be, but your presence is far viler than that of Berserker. Ending you may be a boon upon this world."

Old though the Servant's body may have been, but even through the veils of his Mad Enhancement, the aforementioned knight recognized a fellow swordsman through his resolute stance. Recognized… and respected.

A little sweat trickled down Zouken's face as he eyed the weapon trained between his eyes. A normal attack wouldn't warrant any concern from him normally, but a Servant, regardless of class, was beyond any normal man.

And something about this one unsettled him. Some kind of Skill or attribute, maybe? Whatever it was, he had a feeling that he wouldn't be walking away easily if this… familiar chose to strike. And Kariya the little shit looked like he wanted to bolt up to the kitchen and scamper right back down so he could watch with some snacks.

"Let's not be hasty," the Matou patriarch tried in his most negotiable tone. "Ending me isn't going to solve all of your problems, Kariya. Or maybe you might want to think of dear Sakura…?"

The cripple glared at him, eyes widening and then squinting. "Where is she? If you've done anything more to her, I swear I'll-"

"She's safe," Zouken answered as smoothly as he could, "for now. I'm simply making sure nothing may befall her before you bring me the Holy Grail. It's the least I can do for my darling granddaughter."

Kariya trembled in fury, the Crest Worms beginning to squirm again. Him calling that precious little girl his granddaughter was a disgusting lie, but of course, the ancient bastard would've taken precautions, just in case he would've gotten any ideas with Berserker or the unexpected Caster X. If he let his Servants tear Zouken apart now, who knew where she may be or what might happen? "…That's enough. Put it away, Caster X."

The grey wizard's grip tightened on his sword but he reluctantly returned Glamdring to its sheathe. One look at this… man confirmed he oozed evil like few other beings he had encountered in his travels. But a girl's life seemed to be at stake. This was not the time.

Not yet.

"We're leaving." Kariya moved to hobble towards the stairs, silently dreading the effort that would await him. "Be ready to let her go when we return." He reached the first step, legs already beginning to protest-

Then he found himself braced from both sides, first one, then three seconds passed before the other as well. Shocked, Kariya turned to see Caster X on his left, and Berserker on his right. "Well, now," the elderly man nodded in friendship towards his partner, "you appear to have retained your chivalry even while losing your reason, sir."

"Nnnnnnn… sssssrrrrrr…" the shrouded thing hissed from beneath his helmet, but even so, he was impressively careful in the way his armored being supported his Master's broken body. With their help, Kariya made it to the top as quickly as he would a year ago. His heart felt like it rested in a cooling stream at this fresh feeling, this sense of support from the Heroic Spirits that had answered the call to aid him in this fight for Sakura's life.

Then the devil below opened his mouth again. "Oh, and be sure to greet Tokiomi for me should you meet him."

The mere mention of that man's name set the stream where Kariya's heart rested to a boiling torrent. Yes, he had not forgotten the one responsible for Sakura's anguish, for the burdens he was enduring. The one that would pay.

Berserker began to growl, sensing his Master's fury, while Caster X looked between the two with a wary expression.

"This ought to be a suitable spot." Kariya started at his Servant's words. They had reached a heavy container on the farthest part of the docks, close enough to find out what was sure to happen, but far enough that the two Servants with him wouldn't be easily detected. Caster led his Master to the large metal and let him slump against it with as much care as he could, accepting his staff back with a thanks.

Kariya had quickly found himself growing used to these many little acts of kindness and decency from his Servant. Despite not being able to head back to his apartment, lest his landlady scream at the sight of him, shoot him like some zombie and then toss him into a coffin to be buried, he had received no complaints whatsoever for choosing to hunker down on a dirty mattress in some Shinto alley or getting the bare necessities for sustenance from a convenience store nearby. On the contrary, Caster X had proven himself a kind, reliable, if somewhat gruff at times, companion. He treated Kariya's internal injuries with potent healing spells, offered reasonable suggestions for the battles to come, his own supply was so great that the Master really only needed to keep Berserker replenished (and at half the normal cost, too), and he had inquired gently about his circumstances. The Matou white sheep had told him everything about his family history, Zouken, choosing to walk away from magic because of both details, his own time with Aoi, how Tokiomi, the man that had stolen her from him, sent off Sakura to become the Matou heir, and how he filled himself up with Crest Worms and joined the Grail War to save her and punish Tokiomi for her suffering.

Caster X had disapproved of this last part rather strongly, but the only other source of argument had been what to do with the Worms inside Kariya. The otherworldly Heroic Spirit (Kariya still remembered his shock at hearing that seven of the Servants came from elsewhere) had strongly advocated that he try to eradicate the evil things with his magic; healing Kariya's body did some good, but it also meant there was more for them to chew on. But Kariya sadly had no other way to perform magecraft; Matou had seen to that.

So, much as he voiced his unhappiness with either issue, Caster X still swore to help him in every way he could. And Kariya couldn't find it in him to doubt him, for he couldn't remember the last time he had felt such a deep admiration of any magus. But this one, he exuded an aura of wisdom, benevolence, and kindness. That the Worms seemed to behave more when he was around, as though he intimidated them through his mere presence, was a bonus.

Heck, even Berserker seemed to approve of his partner. Once he grew to understand the reason behind the Servant of Madness' aggression, the wizard began to use calming spells on him that couldn't fully counteract Mad Enhancement (yet), but at least kept the knight from rampaging while they were around. He snarled and trembled around in spirit form through the day, but not once did he attack Caster X again. They were actually quite cordial with each other, Caster X taking the time to hold some conversations with him (even if Berserker's contributions were unintelligible noises).

As he released some flyers that would serve as familiars for the upcoming battle, Kariya actually had hope that he would take down Tokiomi, win this War, and save Sakura, Rin, and Aoi once and for all.

Caster X on the other hand worried over a great deal: his Master's physical health and obsession with revenge, the Berserker currently in spirit form but just barely restraining himself from answering the challenge issued, that monster Zouken, and the little girl under his thumb. He had yet to meet Sakura, but Kariya's affection for her was true, and he'd grown rather fond of the man that had brought him to this world. There was much to be done to help his Master and partner, and he needed more time to discern the best way to solve all of these concerns.

But now, the board was set for a different battle tonight, one he may have to take part in. Thus, all Gandalf the Gray could presently do was light his pipe full of Old Toby and steel himself.

-154:15:41

Even as night had long since come, cars drove this way and that across the 665 meters of Fuyuki Bridge. And atop this bridge, on one of its many red massive steel frames sat Iskandar, King of Conquerors. The mighty winds of the sea sent his long cloak rippling, but it remained safely around his broad shoulders. He himself calmly sipped from a wine bottle while on his crossed legs, unbothered by the forces blowing against him.

"Rider…" The same couldn't be said for the Servant's Master, huddling pitifully to the same structure. Tears welled up in Waver's eyes as his voice trembled with each stroke of air. "Let's go down already. Now!"

Rider took another gulp before glancing down at the student. "What? We couldn't have picked a better place as a look-out. Remind me to thank Qrow for suggesting it."

"I-I think he was being sarcastic when he said it…" Waver mumbled, glancing to the side, "…at least I hope he was…" then the wind picked up, making him yelp and remember his biggest concerns. "W-we're way too high up! I'll fall if you don't get me down."

"Oh, show some patience. Watching and waiting are important traits for any war. You could always read the book I gave you if you need something to do. It's good stuff."

His backpack rustled just above his rump that had risen in the air (which pretty much took away the last of the boy's dignity), the Odyssey book nestled inside ("Just in case nothing happens," Rider had said before grinning. "And maybe even while something happens!") Waver couldn't even think about reading or waiting, he just needed to be on solid ground again!

A light flapping could be heard over the wind for one moment, then Waver felt a slight tremor in the metal underneath him as footsteps approached. "Yo," Saber X's voice rasped out from behind him, the Servant bending over into the boy's teary line of sight just enough to see his face and a wave. "Sweet party you've got up here."

Rider smiled in greeting to his partner. "Ah, Qrow! Your choice in observational points is spot-on!" He tossed the bottle over, which the other Servant caught effortlessly. "Anything else exciting happening tonight?"

Saber X wiped the muzzle a bit before putting it to his mouth for a swig, then replied, "Movement from a couple other Servants nearby, but nothing big yet. I've got the feeling they're doing the same thing as us: waiting for someone else to take the bait." He sat in a casual manner on the other side of the huddling Waver, right leg propped up against the metal while the left swung about without a care in the world, before passing the bottle back with a smirk. "Y'know, when the guy down there first started waving his flag, I'd have thought you'd be first to go charging at him. Big ox chariot, trumpets blazing, all that jazz."

Rider laughed, swirling about the wine a bit in his hand. "I enjoy the clash of opposing might like few others, but I recognize a trap when I see one, my friend. Let another fall into it, then we shall see."

"Nice to know there are a couple of braincells inside that thick skull," the dark-haired Servant commented in good humor as he looked on towards the shipping yards of the docks, the point of origin from the mana rippling in the air. Two red capes fluttered like flags as their owners sat on the bridge, calmly awaiting the show.

Waver for some inexplicable reason didn't have quite the same sang-froid as his Servants, and he was just about to demand that they get him down when a loud bang! almost made him fall over the side with a yelp hadn't two arms caught him on either side. He looked down at the cars below and barely made out through his crying one that had shuddered over to the side and its occupant getting out with some loud Japanese swears. "Blown tire, I guess." Waver's eyes flickered up to Saber X, the Servant peering down at the very angry driver with that weird look in his red eyes.

Were Waver of calmer mind, he might've wondered what he was thinking about. In this state, though? "I wanna go home…" he whimpered as they deposited him back on their perch, clinging for dear life to the metal. "I wanna be back in England again…"

"I just told you to be patient," Rider sighed, disappointed in his Master's cowardice. Perhaps Saber X had been right in saying he was not ready for this War. But then, so few boys ever truly were. And he was not about to let a little sobbing ruin his anticipation for what was about to happen. Iskandar was pleased that his partner on the other hand understood perfectly: the waiting was a battle of endurance. A test of their patience to see if someone else would allow themselves to be ensnared by this brazen Servant.

A test that had paid off, Rider realized with a bright grin. Saber X shot him a sly look, confirming he had noticed it as well. "Eyes up, pipsqueak." Waver glanced with moist eyes at the leaner familiar. "Show's about to start."

The boy managed to find just enough sense through his terror to follow the Servant of the Sword's fingers. Yes… another signature was approaching the first one, bright and confident.

Rider laughed heartily. "This ought to be good!"

Saber walked ahead of Irisviel in the dockyards both gazing every direction in an attempt to find the enemy. The massive containers allowed many shadows to be cast against the light of the streetlamps, increasing hiding places. And aside from one Assassin not allied with them, there were other threats to be found within the darkness.

"Greetings," A smooth male voice rang out, drawing their attention. A single man walked from the other side of the yard, carrying something in each of his hands. "I spent all day searching this wide city for an opponent, but they all slunk away from my presence." A few steps, and the shadows would hide his features no more. "Even the one that made quite a ruckus some time ago. You alone showed enough bravery to acknowledge my offer."

The Servant stepped into the moonlight as Saber shifted to in front of her "Master." Her eyes scanned each detail of her opponent. He stood tall in teal clothing that appeared light, not really meant for absorbing damage but to allow movement. The closest thing to armor was a pad on his left shoulder. The man's face was quite beautiful even to Saber, who had little interest in such things; smooth features, slightly combed messy hair with one strand falling over his face, sleek brown eyes, a mole under his right eye. Then her attention drifted to the weapons he carried: twin spears in both hands, near completely wrapped in purple bandages that left only the tips visible. The one in his right hand was red and longer than the full height of its wielder's body, while the one in his left was yellow and only a third of the other's length.

"Such brilliant resolve…" the Servant praised with a calm smile. "That must make you a Saber, then?"

"I am Saber indeed," she confirmed his inquest, then quickly added, "No 'X' in my case. And you are a Lancer?"

"Correct, without an 'X' as well." The Servant of the Spear chuckled a bit. "These are truly circumstances to get used to. As if keeping ourselves from stating our names for a proper duel wasn't frustrating enough." He twirled both spears in practiced motions as his legs crouched into a stance for combat.

"You would fight me alone, then?"

"Improper though our duel may be, I refuse to sully it further with the interference of my partner. He's already enough of a surly one."

"I appreciate your preference and hope to honor it well." A bright light shined beneath Saber, winds howling about her. Her normal black suit was promptly replaced by the clothing and armor she had worn at her summoning to this world. Her treasured sword, enshrouded by Invisible Air, came into the grip of her right gauntleted hand and then met the left as well as the King of Knights assumed her own stance.

"Watch yourself, Saber," Irisviel cautioned behind her. "The only thing I can do here is back you up with healing magic."

"I can handle Lancer," Saber assured her, not taking her eyes off her target, "but stay on guard for his Master and the other Servant. Their lack of presence here is concerning. Either one could be up to something." She trusted Lancer wouldn't pull any deceitful tactics, but that didn't mean she was stupid. Hopefully her own partner wasn't too far away. "All you need to do is cover me, Irisviel."

"Alright, Saber. Then fight to win!"

"Yes, ma'am!" And so, the first real battle of the Fourth Holy Grail War began much like it did in so many other timelines.

Powerful legs took him down the streets, one after the other. He smiled as the sweet, unmistakable aroma of a battle beginning nearby filled the air. He could practically taste it.

These last few days had been so agonizingly boring for him. He'd checked just about every part of this stupid city and couldn't find any of the others. Nothing to do but lie around in spirit form, take a nap, and wait for one of them to show up.

Even then, his Magic Energy had begun to deplete. He wasn't one of those pansy Archers with that Skill that let them move around better without a Master and replenishing what he'd lost by biting normal people like some vampire was just gross. The only reason he was still here was because he had a lot bigger supply than most.

He'd probably only be able to have one good fight, though, two if he was lucky, before that was it for him.

But that was fine. A Servant was calling out to the others, a strong one.

Why the hell hadn't he thought of that?

Didn't matter. He'd just gotten an invitation for a fight to the death, and like hell was he gonna pass it up.

Berserker X rounded another corner, hand eagerly drifting for his sword's handle-

And found himself facing a brick wall next to some Chinese restaurant advertising for tofu. "What the hell…?" he snarled in frustration. "Where's the fight?!"

Well, Fuyuki City's layout isn't always the easiest to understand.

For those of you wondering about my "Class 1-A Watches The Incredibles" story, it got deleted by the admins on Monday. Sorry, y'all, I really, really tried to avoid that outcome, but no dice. Either way, I humbly ask you not to flood this story with queries, complaints, raves, or the like. Please leave ONLY REVIEWS RELATED TO THIS STORY. Thank you.

Rider X-

Class: Rider

Master: Kirei Kotomine

True Name: Megatron

Titles: Lord and Master of the Decepticons, Champion of the Pits of Kaon

Sex: Male

Source: Transformers Prime

Region: Cybertron

Alignment: Chaotic Evil

Strength: A

Endurance: A

Agility: B+

Mana: B

Luck: D

NP: A

Class Skills-

Riding: The capacity to ride vehicles and animals. Rider-class Servants will typically possess a high rank.

A: Rider X can handle nearly all animals and vehicles with supreme prowess, be it land, sea, or air (air being his specialty due to Alt-Mode: Starship), even if they are less advanced than the ones of his homeworld. However, Phantasmal Species are beyond his abilities.

Magic Resistance: Grants protection against magical effects.

D: Rider X holds little natural immunity against magical threats, his willpower being the strongest factor rather than any experience in his past life. Magic on the level of High-Thaumaturgy and Greater Rituals can overwhelm him, though he will put up a fight.

Personal Skills-

Charisma: Is a composite Skill consisting of a person's charm as well as the natural talent to command or unify an army or country. Increases the ability of allies during group battles.

A: Rider X successfully led a political movement that became an incredibly powerful army to overthrow the current government. With it, he came close to conquering his world were it not for the opposing army being led by an equally great person and his own misjudgment.

Tactics: Is tactical knowledge used not for one-on-one combat situations, but for battles where many are mobilized. Bonus modifiers are provided during use of one's own Anti-Army Noble Phantasm or when dealing against an enemy Anti-Army Noble Phantasm.

B: Rider X personally led his troops into battle as often as he could but also coordinated away from enemy lines successfully. He has a good sense for how to use any resource at his disposal.

The Path to Glory: The drive to continue on towards one's highest level, a refusal to settle for anything less. This Skill also grants the boons of Independent Action, Valor and Battle Continuation, albeit of one rank lower.

A+: Rider X was once a nameless miner, but from his first step into a gladiatorial arena, he gained more power and rose to be among the mightiest of his people's history. To him, physical injuries and even temporary defeat are annoyances of varying levels so long as the final result is him standing victorious. His thirst for more power and opponents to wield this power against seems unsatiable; there are no limits to what sorts of depravities Rider X would stoop to.

Noble Phantasms-

Alt-Mode Starship: "Conquest of the Upper Heights": B (Anti-Unit (Self)): Unlike most others of his class, Rider X does not summon a mount for battle; he is the mount. He can naturally assume a secondary form, an aircraft as large as he is big, able to carry another passenger (while generating a low-level protective field to keep the passenger from feeling adverse effects in flight) and still race through the skies with supersonic velocity. He is also equipped with rapid-fire energy blasters to strafe enemies on passes. Highly maneuverable, Rider X's air-combat abilities as a Starship are difficult to match at the least, and he can switch between this form and his regular one with but a thought.

?: A++ (Anti-Unit (Self))

?: A++ (Anti-Unit)

Bonus: (The True Reason Behind Kiritsugu Emiya and Artoria Pendragon's Less Tense Partnership)

"And the signs for all of them are mandatory?"

"When you perform a jutsu the first few times, yes. Memorization is a key tool for this as well. One misstep, and the jutsu either won't happen in the way it's supposed to or won't happen period." Assassin X explained as the duo were walking through one of the mansion's hallways. "But once you've reached a certain level of familiarity with a technique, one can perform it with a fraction of the mandatory handsigns. In fact, there are shinobi that only need a single one per jutsu, if that."

"Dare I hope you're one of them?" Kiritsugu appeared without emotion as ever, but there was a trace of levity in his voice. It was only a few hours before they would be heading for the airport to catch the flight to Japan, and both Master and Servant were feeling a little restless.

"You have fair reason to," Assassin X replied, silently pleased that an infinitesimal part of the man had opened up. "Handsigns are basically a way to help mold chakra into a certain way for a certain result. The more often the parts of a body do something, the more accustomed they grow to it, and soon enough, parts can be skipped for immediate effects."

"It's a similar thing with magecraft," Kiritsugu agreed, scratching the stubble on his chin. The discussions this last day had been quite interesting, and more than a little-

"HiyaaaaaaaaaAAAAAA!?"

Both men just stood there for about a minute, brains struggling to comprehend the sound that had just reverberated through every part of the castle. "…That sounded like Saber," Assassin X finally noted, trying to narrow down where the sound had originated.

"She was with Iri." Kiritsugu was already beginning to sprint down the hall. The Servant caught up to him in no time as they passed confused homunculi and members of the Einzbern family.

What the hell was that? An enemy attack? Why else would Saber of all people make such a cry? But how could they have slipped in this easily? Kiritsugu primed his Glock and Kakashi readied a handful of shuriken. Any adversaries coming into this castle would sorely regret it.

Assassin X wrenched open the door to the room where he had established his partnership with Saber, both men poured in… and blinked in incomprehension at what they saw.

Saber had pressed herself and a befuddled Irisviel against the far wall, eyes glaring with an odd sort of terror staring at something lying on the floor. The men stepped closer to see what it was-

Oh no! Assassin X's eye widened in horror as he rooted around in his back pouch, desperately to find what he was looking for.

Alas, it wasn't in its usual spot. He remembered now, he had taken it out to pass some of the time before Kiritsugu had telepathically called him to check on something. Then Irisviel had walked in and greeted him, he greeted back and must've accidentally left it behind on the table.

Now, resting half-open covers face-up on the exquisite carpet next to a spilled cup of tea, Kiritsugu leaning overhead, was his treasured first-edition copy of "Make-Out Tactics."

Cheeks flushed so furiously her blonde hair had almost turned red, Saber snapped her gaze towards Assassin X who took a step back from the emerald fire blazing in them. "YOU! Is that thing…" her index finger thrust through the air like Rhongyomiad (which she dearly wished she still had in this moment to purge the world of such foulness) at the mass of paper, "Is that disgusting work of primal f-filth truly yours?! Tell me Irisviel is wrong, Assassin X! Tell me this was sent by one of our enemies as part of some dastardly scheme!" She didn't care that she was screeching like a banshee now, this simply couldn't be true!

"Well, uh, you see…" Kakashi stuttered, incapable of meeting those indignant emerald orbs.

Kiritsugu looked between the two of them, Assassin X acting like a boy having caught in the act of cheating on a test, Saber looking like a furious mother ready to give him a thrashing, then his eyes went back down to the orange book with a cartoon thinking man on the front. "Iri…" he asked slowly, "what the he-eck is going on here?"

His wife shrugged lightly. "I'm honestly not sure. I come in here with some tea, greet Assassin X who was on his way to meet up with you, he left that book behind, and well, those letters there say 'Tactics' if I recall from our lessons. I thought it might be some strategy book that he was using to brush up on some plans, and I guess curiosity got the better of me." She giggled in a guilty tone. "Sorry, Assassin X, I would've given it back to you later."

"T-that's okay, Irisviel," Assassin X quickly reassured her, grateful for any chance to defuse this situation. Unfortunately, luck wasn't on his side. Saber continued to glare at him…

…And Kiritsugu had just picked it off the ground.

"Watch yourself, Kiritsugu!" Artoria warned him in such a stern tone that he almost obeyed her for a second. "What is written in those pages, no innocent soul should ever bear witness to!" She shuddered in utter horror for a moment. "I found Irisviel sitting in a chair, avidly reading that book. She was gazing at its contents so intently I grew curious myself and peered over her shoulder." Another shudder, accompanied by an expression far too haunted for anyone with such a face to normally bear. "T-that single page told of… t-two people… on a bed… with wine… a-a-and un-uncooked rice…" For the first time, she regretted the Grail-given ability to translate foreign languages and texts into her native tongue.

Ah, page 64, Kakashi realized with sweat beginning to gather under his protector. Yes, that's a… that's a pretty steamy one. Even by the series' standards.

And she continued to describe her harrowing first encounter with adult literature. "I struck it out of her hand and tried to put as much space between her pure soul and T-this c-carnal f-f-f-FILTH!" Saber spat out the word with every last shred of disgust she could muster, the result making him shrink back. And to think she had developed such a high opinion of her partner!

Gniargh, Merlin certainly would've approved of this lout…

Kiritsugu flipped through the pages, brow furrowing with each passing second. Irisviel continued to be puzzled about all the heat. "Carnal?" she asked in the sort of innocent tone a young child would have when using a swear word for the first time. "I'm not sure how meat refers to the context." She tapped a finger to her chin. "I've never read a book quite like that before…" With good reason, her scowling beloved thought, snapping the novel shut before his mind could properly picture its… contents.

Iri continued to speak, a curious gleam shimmering in her crimson eyes. "The story's pretty interesting, Kiritsugu, especially some of the scenes. Are they actually feasible?"

…How sheltered is this woman?! Never before had Assassin X been so grateful for his mask's ability to hide nosebleeds.

And was that steam or Invisible Air billowing from the top of Saber's head?

Plus, both Servants could've sworn they saw their Master's face increase in color for a moment. Especially around his nose.

The precious book was launched with speed rivalling that of a fired bullet back into its owner's hand, the ninja juggling it a bit for a second before stowing it away. "N-now now, everyone," Assassin X tried to keep his voice calm, hands raised defensively in front of himself, "we all have our little ways of getting through the days, right? And there's no harm done f-from o-o-o-one l-little b-b-b-book…"

A still-luminescent Saber hadn't summoned her sword (yet), but that may have been because her hands were currently gripping a chair's backrest so tightly the wood had begun to splinter between her fingers.

And judging by the heat of her glower towards her partner, his neck may be next.

Somehow, though, that seemed to be the gentler fate that awaited him.

"You left," Kiritsugu Emiya ground through each word with an ever-colder growing glare his way, "an erotic novel. One that practically redefines the term. Lying around. Where my wife could pick it up."

"I-I didn't mean to leave it-"

"Ilya could've found it."

I'm doomed…

If looks could kill, the one Kiritsugu cast upon him would've launched Assassin X straight through the Throne of Heroes and into all six realms of reincarnation.

And Saber's would've trapped him in Naraka for all eternity.

"Saber." The single word was curt, deceptively calm.

The girl of deceptive youth tore away her blazing emerald eyes away from her partner and towards the other man present. "Yes, Master?" She acknowledged him in the same tone.

"I have a special assignment for you, hopefully one that doesn't require a Command Seal." The Mage Killer's eyes never wavered from Kakashi. No matter how much he shivered. "The next time you catch Assassin X with that kind of literature in public or anywhere near my family, remove from him whatever body parts you believe he does not require for battle."

Assassin X paled at the implication, more so when Saber gave a curt nod in concurrence. "Understood, Master. And indeed, you need not waste your Command Seal for this mission. I swear on my honor as King of Knights, such travesties shall not go unpunished."

"Excellent." They even shook hands in agreement over this.

Irisviel was beaming at the professional, almost civil conversation between her husband and his primary Servant. She still wasn't entirely sure what all the fuss was about, but the results were promising. She couldn't help but give her most gentle, sincere smile at the strangely petrified Heroic Spirit. "You're really an incredible person, Assassin X! Their cooperation's getting better with each day!"

Yes… Kakashi Hatake mused as miniscule tears began to gather in his right eye, I've outdone myself.

And yes, this is 100% canon to my story :-).