Sorry for the late update. Was busy with a lot of stuff and didn't have the time to bring out any new chapters. That said, I thought I'd share with you guys some miscellaneous information. I don't have data books on characters and all that so I figured I'd just put it up here for fun.

Favorite foods for the main cast:

1. Issei – Cheesecake

2. Vali – Beef Bourguignonne

3. Arthur – Glazed Pound Cake

4. Kuroka – Nigiri Sushi

5. Bikou – Pork Bao

6. Lefay – Grilled Salmon


Chapter 14: Reparations

Arthur, Mordred, and Elaine were staring down three members of the Hero Faction. At this point, the enemy was unknown, but if their names and ancestry meant anything, then it meant that their powers had to be similar.

Arthur was dealing with Heracles, who was proving to live up to his namesake's vitality. When he swung at him, Heracles would guard with his gauntlets, preventing any strikes from hitting.

"It's a shame that we're on opposing sides. You'd have been a ridiculously valuable comrade." Heracles noted.

"No thanks, I'm happy with where I am." Arthur refuted.

(Bleach OST – Guitar III. Play Song.)

Ducking under Heracles' fist, Arthur swiped upward but was blocked by his gauntlets again.

Rearing his fist back, Heracles punched at him, but was irritated when he dodged his attack. Arthur circled around him, keeping his distance. Clearly, Heracles was a melee fighter, but to what heights did his strength reach?

Arthur slashed at a pillar of stone and used Excalibur Ruler to launch it at Heracles. With a mighty fist, he shattered the entire pillar into pebbles. Distracted by his projectile, Arthur slashed a wave of golden mana at Heracles. Assuming a full guard, he clasped the wave, catching it with both hands. Pushed back several feet, is toes grinding into the floor, Heracles roared with frustration before dispersing the attack.

With many of his opponents, they would either dodge or be destroyed by that sort of attack. Yet, Heracles was able to catch it and even disperse it. It was made clear to Arthur now that Heracles was no joke and had to be taken much more seriously.

Arthur dodged back and forth, blitzing Heracles as quickly as possible. However, each time he attacked, Heracles would block it while some other strikes connected. Yet, that was the unsettling part. Every attack that Arthur made had either no cuts or was healed rapidly.

Heracles noticed Arthur's curiosity and smirked.

"I may not have the Nemean Lion's hide, but I have the next best thing. The true innate power of Heracles, Olympic Soul. It allows me incredible fortitude with my strength and durability that most others don't have, even in the supernatural realm. It was thanks to this power, that the original Heracles completed all of his 12 Labors."

With that piece of information, Arthur smirked. If he were to be honest, he welcomed this challenge. Heracles was heralded as the greatest hero of all Greek Mythology. While he didn't have the opportunity to fight the original without some issues, he could test his mettle against his descendant. This was an opportunity that he wanted to savor and perhaps, it could help him fill that annoying hole in his heart, that emptiness.

Elaine was firing away at Robin Hood, using elemental magic to destroy his arrows. With a mere flick of her hand, she fired bursts of inferno that constantly forced Robin Hood to dodge around her attacks.

When Robin Hood rolled, dodging a bolt of thunder magic before returning fire. Elaine slapped the arrow aside before cutting him off with a stream of ice magic. Jumping and climbing over the spiked wall of ice, Robin spun in the air, firing three arrows simultaneously.

Elaine expected him to fire the arrows straight at her, but was surprised when one exploded. Propelling the other two arrows away, one bounced off the other, narrowly missing Elaine's leg. With a spin, she fired slicing wind at Robin Hood. Back-flipping, he fired another arrow before throwing a bladed boomerang at her.

Ricocheting one arrow off the boomerang, Robin Hood stood in front of Elaine. With a motion of his hand, he brought the boomerang straight towards him, as if controlling it with a remote. Blasting at Robin Hood with fire magic, Elaine stepped out of the way before covering the boomerang with ice as it passed by.

Clapping her hands, she manipulated the floor around Robin Hood to move like clay. Sliding at him from both sides, Robin Hood could only dodge. Jumping into the air, Elaine raised a hand, creating an erupting flame that engulfed him.

That was when she heard a faint whistle. Thanks to her instincts, she avoided getting her throat slit by Robin Hoods' boomerang but it instead nicked her shoulder. Feeling the cold steel slice into her flesh, Elaine ignored the sharp sting.

Retaliating, she blasted Robin Hood with a burst of fire, burning his bow into ashes. Clicking his tongue in irritation, he discarded his bow before stretching out his arms. Mounted on them, were crossbows with barrels of enchanted magic. Firing rapidly from them, were arrows of magic that forced Elaine on the defensive, putting up a barrier.

Mordred had been unable to help, as he was facing an opponent that was practically stacking things against him. If her name meant anything, then Nora was going to be hard to wound.

"Fighting someone with a sword of peace? Do you believe in yourself that greatly?" Nora raised a brow.

"Don't judge a book by its cover." Mordred pushed her back.

Swiping at her, he managed to nick her forearms. Much to his dismay, he noticed that her cut was healing almost instantly.

She swiped at him, but he stepped back. Whirling around, he tried to slash at her but she spun out of the way, kicking him back. She jumped into the air, bringing her leg down towards him. Blocking her attack, he was surprised when she kicked off a magic circle, backflipping whilst kicking him in the chin.

Landing on his feet, Mordred dove forward, kicking Nora back into a wall.

"Geh!" She groaned.

She took note of this. It seemed like Mordred was more along the side of power while Arthur was on the side of speed. It almost felt too apt.

Charging at Nora, Mordred readied his sword for an attack. Throwing her dagger, Mordred knocked it away. Grabbing hold of it, Nora came flying down from the air. Mordred raised his sword and slashed a wave at her. Holding herself steady, she dispersed the attack and kicked him. This time, he was ready, however. Throwing Nora into a wall once again, Mordred pressed his attack.

Slashing at her with another wave, Nora dodged. This time, the wave wounded her, cutting part of her forearm. In return, she dashed at Mordred, cutting his torso before kicking at his face. Blocking her attack, he landed a punch at her gut before bashing her back with the flat of his blade.

Rolling back onto her feet, Nora revealed one of the cads up her sleeve. When Nora looked at Mordred, her eyes shimmered pink with a magical glow. Thrown completely for a loop, Mordred could only feel himself be entranced. He lost any thoughts that wanted him to harm her. It was as if he just wanted to step aside and let her do as she wanted.

Nora sprinted at her vulnerable prey, readying for a definitive strike. Mordred was stuck in place, unaware of what was coming.

"Mordred!"

A golden wave sent Nora flying backward, giving her a significant wound on her torso. With a swipe of Excalibur Ruler's aura, Arthur dispelled whatever enchantment Nora put on his cousin. Mordred shook his head to regain his bearings.

"Arthur?"

He was honestly surprised. He'd expected Arthur to just let him get stabbed or something. Yet, Arthur had come to his aide without hesitation, forgoing his own opponent. Arthur also understood Mordred's thought processes and spoke.

"Look, I know we've had our differences. Even now, we've yet to move on, but that doesn't mean I'll just stand by and let you die." Arthur explained simply.

Mordred was surprised but Arthur's words resonated with him. He wasn't in a brotherly relation with Arthur anymore, being more like begrudged acquaintances, but he would've also done the same thing.

Regaining his bearings, Mordred stood up. Stabbing his sword into the ground, he activated Clarent. A white shockwave encompassed the area, immediately blanketing the room in light.

"Don't let it touch you." Heracles warned.

"Clarent, end this madness!" Mordred commanded.

(Bleach OST – Guitar III. End Song.)

When the white light died down, everyone looked to see what had happened. What had changed? Nobody had any new wounds and nobody felt different. Nora decided that nothing was going to happen if they just kept looking around and drew her dagger. That was when Mordred's work was made clear. She couldn't swing her weapon.

Heracles tried to ignite his aura, but nothing came of it. Robin Hood was also facing the same predicament as the others. He couldn't draw the strings on his crossbows or even muster the strength to throw his boomerangs. For some reason, aggressive action was being forbidden. Whenever they thought of attacking, it felt like they were either frozen in place or unable to muster the strength to move.

"Clarent was originally a sword of peace. King Arthur used it to establish peaceful meetings and to prevent others from escalating situations. Right now, so long as you raise your weapon or attack anyone for the sake of victory or dominance for your own goals, you cannot move or use your weapons." Mordred explained.

Arthur was surprised to see this. When he saw Mordred brandish his sword, flourishing it gracefully, he no longer had doubts. His cousin had changed for the better.

Robin Hood sighed, miffed. He took a step forward but suddenly, he felt something weird.

"Hold on."

Suddenly, the entire Vault began shaking as if an earthquake was coming.

"What now?" Mordred groaned.

Something was tearing through the ground below them. Jumping into the air, everyone barely dodged what came next. A massive black serpent swallowed everything in its way, trying to get at everyone in the room. When they escaped, the beast continued, slithering up to the surface.


Jumping off the falling debris, everyone returned outside to try and sort out the situation.

"Did you get them?" Anastasia asked.

"No. Something unexpected came. We should leave." Nora decided.

"We still haven't completed the mission." Heracles said.

"We've already used too much of our time. Not only that, but this sudden creature spells ill for us. Don't forget, the enemy's reinforcements are on their way." Robin reminded him.

With a click of his tongue, Heracles relented as the Hero Faction made their exit. Nobody tried to stop them, the creature in front of them was taking all their attention. It was an absolutely massive creature that rivaled the size of the Wyrm that the Khaos Brigade summoned at the Peace Conference. It was black with sharp scales and golden blades running along its body. At the top of it head was a purple gem and two green eyes.

"What is that?" Vali asked.

"No idea. It just came out of nowhere." Arthur replied.

Issei only observed this creature. Just a few minutes ago, he was holding Ashoka back but suddenly, his right arm had been sparking an intense feeling. It was akin to that same feeling he felt when those guys tried to drag Lefay along. Whatever this creature was, Bahamut hated it.

"What's the plan?" Bikou asked.

"Take it down." Vali said.

(Metroid Prime OST – Parasite Queen. Play Song.)

As soon as this creature appeared, it opened its maw, firing a purple laser from its mouth. Dragging it across the earth with an ear-splitting ringing, the Serpent's laser sliced through the Earth's crust like it was as soft as water.

Lefay used her wand to bring together the dust and ash around them and pushed it at the creature's face. With a whip of her wand, she fired dozens of magic spells at the creature. While they had knocked it back, Lefay noticed that her attacks weren't making much damage.

"We need to break through its scales. My magic can't damage it otherwise." Lefay said.

"Arthur, you try and cut through its scales. Bikou, Kuroka, Lefay, you three try and soften it up. I'll go first and weaken it." Vali said.

Creating particles of light-blue stars, she flapped her wings and blew them at the Serpent.

"[Stardust]"

Several waves of particles erupted, covering the Serpent with explosions. It eyed Vali with absolute ire. Hissing at her, the Serpent breathed a purple mist at her. Instantly, Vali gagged as her body was wracked with burning aches and pain. Even with her Balance Breaker, it proved to be incapable of completely shielding her from harm. She felt as if her lungs were filling with burning ash and smoke.

"[Transcendence]" Albion announced.

Issei saw what happened immediately after. He was astounded. Immediately all of a sudden, she turned into blue particles before shimmering back into full form several feet away from where she originally was.

'Teleportation?' He assumed.

"That thing can emit poison gas. We'll have to attack from long-range." Vali warned.

Bombarding the Serpent again with [Stardust], she knew she wasn't going to be able to land a close hit. As it were, the Serpent was surrounding itself with poisonous gas from its scales.

Summoning Caliburn, Arthur used its dimension-cutting power to slice through the thick clouds around the creature. It wailed in pain as a deep gash spread across its side. Whipping at the group, everyone jumped out of the way as its tail smashed apart another section of the Pendragon Compound.

Mordred pointed Clarent at it. Amassing his aura, he fired a ray from his sword. When it struck, the beam fizzled, waned away through the purple vapor around it.

"What?"

"I don't think this creature's going to be affected by Clarent, Mordred." Arthur said.

"Then we'll have to settle for the other side of the coin." Mordred sighed.

Running his hand along the blade of Clarent, a red string of markings appeared on the blade. The blade ceased being white and became silver, with the edge becoming crimson.

"What's going on?" Arthur asked.

"Clarent was originally a sword of peace. After the original Mordred defiled it, it lost the power to promote peace and instead, it became like any other weapon. In exchange for losing its enchantments, Clarent can become a royal sword that can constantly attack without breaking or damage. I've learned how to activate both abilities." Mordred explained.

Indeed, the sword lost the shine it once had moments before. Now, they only needed to see if it could harm the Serpent.

Arthur used Caliburn to open a hole in the dimension, ventilating the poison gas around the Serpent. Seizing this moment, Mordred rent Clarent through the Serpent's scales, slicing through them and drawing blood. It opened its mouth to spew poison at him, but was blasted in the face with a series of ice magic from Kuroka and Lefay.

Issei opened his hand and put his training to use. Gathering the mana within him, he created a sphere of navy-blue mana. Aiming it at the Serpent, he fired. Erupting from his palm, was a giant beam that barely missed the creature. When the beam dissipated, the Serpent's, left side had been blown off, leaving its gruesome innards exposed.

The progress was quickly undone when the Serpent regenerated from the damage done to it. Issei felt unsettled when he heard it make sense. It almost sounded as if it were joyfully mocking them. That was when his focus returned to the front. The Serpent was glaring right at him.

"Issei, get back!" Vali warned him.

Jumping out the way, Issei barely avoided the monster's open maw. Arthur came crashing down with Caliburn, piercing through its scales. Following up with his attack, Bikou smashed Ruyi Jingu Bang into its face. Roaring at him in rage, the Serpent opened its mouth to breath venom. Before it could, Lefay blasted its open mouth with fire, igniting the venom.

It violently thrashed about, smashing apart everything around it as its inside burned.

"Now! Take it down now!" Vali said.

Everyone launched attacks at it, trying to put it down with a combined assault. However, Issei looked closely and noticed something. The Serpent was melting into the ground…no, it was melting into shadows.

"Everyone, get into the air!" Issei warned.

Jumping into the air, Issei narrowly avoided the Serpent which rushed at him from the ground. Vali flew to his aid, grabbing hold of him as they rose into the air.

"Did you notice it too?" Kuroka asked.

Levitating in the air with her Devil wings, she watched as a massive shadow slithered on the ground, waiting for them to come down.

"Yeah. It can melt into shadows and then rematerialize itself." Vali nodded.

"Arthur, Lefay, don't either of you have light magic?" Bikou asked.

"Not exactly, no. While the Holy Swords have a radiance to it, they're more of the Holy attribute, not the Light attribute." Arthur shook his head.

He eyed this creature. Never before had he encountered such a thing. In some ways, there were enemies that were like this thing, but this Serpent…it was on a different level. It could melt into shadows and use poison. Its scales were as hard as a dragon's, perhaps harder. He'd tried to cut it with Excalibur Ruler and it didn't work. It had even forced him to use Caliburn, which he'd rarely had to use. Deep down, in some dark part of him…he welcomed the challenge. It brought a new feeling of excitement and it also allowed him to test himself with a new trial. After leaving home, this feeling had become more prevalent as he wandered the world. Now, he was ready to take on this next challenge, to see if it made that growing hollowness in him disappear.

"I'll draw it out." Lefay said.

Zipping her wand through the air, she created a number of magic circles that radiated with gold rays. The Serpent's' shadow zipped around and snapped around like a cracking whip when the lasers of light came at it.

"Damn thing won't stay still." Kuroka cursed.

Right now, the only one's who were Devils within the Peerage were Vali, Bikou, and herself. Arthur and Lefay refrained in order to avoid a weakness to Light and Holy weapons. Thus, the 3 of them weren't going to be of too much help when maximizing damage to the Serpent.

(Metroid Prime OST – Parasite Queen. End Song.)

Suddenly, the ground began to shake and tremble violently.

"Something's coming." Issei said.

He didn't know why he said it, but his instincts were telling him to be ready to dodge. Something within him was warning him and it felt familiar…as if he'd felt this feeling millions of times before.

Blasting out of the ground was a massive cloud of darkness, shrouding everything within sight. Everyone felt that painful coldness as their vision was blocked and the shadows engulfed them, separating the group. Haunting howling rushed by everyone's ears as they tried to get out of this mess, but with such a new situation, no one had yet to properly find a way.

Arthur slashed at the darkness with Caliburn, but to no avail. The shadows were too thick for his sword to disperse. Still, he had yet to feel too troubled. If anything, he had a small twinge of amusement.

"Stay close to me." Arthur told Lefay.

The young witch tried all sorts of spells to try and get rid of this dark and endless cloud, but nothing worked. This new enemy was just too unknown for them to have any idea on how to counter.

Honestly, Lefay was a bit concerned. Arthur seemed to be growing more interested in fighting the Serpent, rather than getting out of this situation. Was this what their parents were afraid of?

Arthur closed his eyes and listened. He could hear it. He could sense it. The slithering coldness coiling in the ground. The hissing. The overflowing bloodlust. He could sense the creature. Rapidly lunging forward, Arthur thrust at thin air. He felt something stop it, as if touching something solid.

"Lefay, in front of me!"

She instantly whipped around and let hell loose. Ice, fire, wind, lightning, and mana exploded as they hit something invisible.

"Can you locate the others?" Arthur asked.

"I'll try." Lefay nodded.

Suddenly, Lefay felt something rip at her side, gnawing at her before she was flung flying away into the darkness. She screamed in agony as she was ripped out of his sight.

"Lefay!" Arthur cried out.

Drawing Caliburn, he tried to use its dimensional powers but was flabbergasted with what happened next. A purple sigil was shining around his blade. How did that get there?

"A neutralizing sigil…"

Caliburn, known as one of the most powerful Holy Swords, was left a mere piece of metal in his hands.

"Damn it!"

He reached for Excalibur Ruler and parried what seemed to be fangs from thin air. Backing away, he looked at the sword. The same thing was plaguing its powers. Whatever this cloud of shadows was, it was neutralizing all his weapons. Arthur tried to sense the Serpent again. Detecting it to his right, he formed a blade from his mana and slashed. Instantly dispersing, Arthur was forced to dodge to the side when his attack proved futile.

Once more, he heard Lefay cry out in pain.

"Aaaaah!"

"Lefay! Where are you?!" He called out to try and find her.

He tried to detect her presence but the shadows around him were obstructing him. It was now setting in. Arthur was powerless. For the first time, he was unable to do a thing. His little sister and his friends were possibly getting torn to shreds and he was unable to do a thing. This whole time, he'd been nearly unrivaled and had yet to face a challenge that could help him feel free. Now, this new adversary had made him feel powerless, powerless to actually help those around him. He now realized that he had gotten too focused on fighting the Serpent and had lost sight of what was important. He'd neglected his own precious comrades.

Arthur took a deep breath and collected himself. Now was not the time to be stressing out. He had to try and get out of this mess and stop being an idiot. He tried to remember where Lefay's voice came from and followed. While he ran, he couldn't see anything, only shrouds of purple wisps and an endless darkness. Yet, he could feel solid ground. Before long, he was able to see something in the distance. It was Lefay, who was being encroached with tendrils of shadow.

Yanking her free, he retreated with her as he tried to get things back under control.

"Lefay." He said.

He looked at her and saw the numerous bite marks and burns on her person.

"This thing…isn't going to go down easy. We've also gotta find a way to dispel this cloud." Lefay stifled in pain.

Taking out a potion, she dripped some onto her wounds to heal them more quickly.

"I can't use my swords to their full potential right now. Something's hexing them so that I can't activate their powers at full capacity." Arthur said.

"I can try and get rid of it, but we don't have time." Lefay trembled as she tried to stand.

Suddenly, they felt something. Something was coming at them and fast. They felt a twinge of panic. Arthur's weapons were crippled and Lefay's magic wasn't effective enough. Lefay raised a barrier, with Arthur boosting it with whatever magical skill he had. Instantly, the defense was shattered, leaving them vulnerable. Yet, nothing came. No, something was stopping that surge of shadow from reaching them. They looked up and saw the cause. The very sight of it stunned them.

"Father?!"

Out of nowhere, Uther Pendragon had appeared. Yet, there was no reason to feel relieved. With so little time, he could only shield his children with his body. He groaned and stifled in pain as he stood tall against the stream of shadows to defend his children.

"Father, get out of the way!" Lefay pleaded.

Suddenly, she saw something behind him. A small sparkle that rapidly became a blinding light. Soon enough, the cloud of darkness dispersed. Uther dropped to the ground but was caught by his children.

"Father…" Arthur trailed off.

Uther winced as his son moved them farther away. Turning back, he saw that Issei and Vali were standing ready to fight the Serpent again, with Kuroka and Bikou badly wounded.

"I saw that cloud of gas and knew you two were in here. I also heard you two scream." Uther coughed.

"Why?" Arthur turned back to his father.

"Because…what father just stands still while his children are in trouble?" Uther asked.

He coughed. Lefay gasped as she looked at his back. Grotesque burns and erosion had torn into his back. Lefay put a hand on his torso to sense his vitals and what she felt was sickening. He had received severe internal damage, with shattered bones and possible internal bleeding for starters.

"But all that time…" Arthur started.

(Assassin's Creed 2 OST – Ezio's Family. Play Song.)

"It was because I worried for your futures and I was poor with my methods. Arthur, you're strong, very much so. Your talents are astounding amongst your generation, with very few rivaling you. Lefay, your intelligence and character are unforeseen, nearly unbelievable. I didn't want your gifts to consume you. I limited your exposure to others and forced you to do many things because I feared that if you tasted too much power at such a rapid rate or experienced too much, you'd fall into that dark pit. I convinced myself that I was doing it for the good of others and yourselves, but I was wrong. I was just afraid. However, seeing how you two have grown, seeing the error of my ways, I wanted to do at least one thing for you as your father, even if I had to die." Uther gurgled out blood, gasping for air.

"Don't talk anymore." Arthur said.

Lefay began pouring her potions onto his wounds while holding her wand over him. Desperately, she tried her best to keep her shaking hands under control. She had to control herself. She had to stay composed.

"Arthur, I know you're the reincarnation of King Arthur. In my heart, I know you're the one who'll help save the world in that prophecy. I've let go of your leash. Stop running away from your birthright. That birthright doesn't just symbolize our family's pride. That was never the intention. Your birthright, is the hopes of our line and that someday, we'll be of aid to this world in whatever crisis befalls it."

Once more, Uther choked on his blood. His strength was waning.

"I know that you probably hate me. It was because of me, that you have that empty feeling in your heart. That's why you seek to train, to grow stronger, and fight. And you, Lefay, because my negligence, you've always worked yourself to the bone and illness to try and please me. Yet, I always failed to come through for you. You two have flaws, but so do we all. Even with those flaws, know that I was always watching and I was always proud, even if I didn't show it. I believed that I had to be strict and strong so that I could lead but I was wrong. I have wronged you both and I am sorry for that."

Arthur was silent. He genuinely didn't know what was going to happen now.

"I've never hated you. At first, I was angry because I thought you were controlling. However, earlier, I finally understood why everything led up to this. I desired a challenge too much and nearly forgot about my sister, who almost died. My own desire to test myself and my desire to fill that void, nearly made me fail my sister. I always held a grudge against you, but I now see that my own foresight was never as far as I'd hoped. I forgive you and I hope that you'll both forgive me. Because of my own selfishness, I uprooted Lefay's life, cast aside Elaine, saddened mother, and wasted your care. I'm also sorry." Arthur said solemnly.

Uther then pointed a fair distance away.

"Do you see it, Arthur?"

Looking in the designated direction, Arthur was surprised at the sight.

"Excalibur has heard you. Unlike Caliburn, Excalibur's conditions are different. Your heart must be cleared of its baggage. You must not waver in your own righteous convictions. That was why you couldn't lift it. Your inner conflict and uncertainty, your doubt, it made you unworthy. That was also why I was never allowed to wield it. However, it's different now. Excalibur has determined that you've grown and is ready to fight alongside you. Take it and don't be like your namesake." Uther trailed off as he took raspier breaths.

Trekking over to where Excalibur had fallen on the ground, Arthur resolutely took hold of the sword. Before, he wondered if he was even worthy of the weapon, remembering the tales of only the chosen king being allowed to draw the blade from its sheath. Now, he no longer cared. He wanted this weapon in order to get rid of this creature. He wanted to protect what was left of his home and his family and friends. It wasn't about being strong and seeing where he stood in the world now. It was about doing what was right.

Arthur felt a surge of power as a golden aura enveloped him, proving that Excalibur had accepted him. With no time to waste, he went over to where the others were.


(Assassin's Creed 2 OST – Ezio's Family. End Song.)

"So, what do we do now?" Bikou asked.

Arthur looked at everyone's weapons. All of them had that same purple sigil that had appeared over Caliburn and Excalibur Ruler.

"Tell me, when you all struck that creature, did that sigil appear instantly after?" He asked.

"Yeah. One strike and boom, no more special properties. My staff wouldn't extend or change size." Bikou growled.

"What're you thinking?" Kuroka asked.

"I'm thinking that if we hit that thing once, it instantly infects our weapons and renders them useless for a time."

"Then that means we've gotta kill it in one blow with something that hasn't touched it yet." Issei concluded.

(Naruto Shippuden OST – Emergence of Talents/Hyakka Ryouran. Play Song.)

That was when everybody noticed what was new about him. His left arm was now sporting a navy and silver gauntlet that was like his right one, although with a different design.

"How did you get that?"

"I found it. While in that cloud of darkness, I obtained it but I'll explain it later. For now, I know I can stop its shrouds. Arthur, we'll leave it to you to finish deal the finishing blow." Issei said.

"Yeah, count on it."

No more words were necessary. They had to do this in one go and it had to be quick and precise. Mordred erected a barrier with Clarent, stopping a surge of venomous gas. Vali created a cascade of explosions with [Stardust], keeping the Serpent from seeing what was coming next. Bikou grasped clumps of his hair and enchanted them, creating several copies of himself out of thin air. They charged forward, creating a wall of bodies that held the Serpent down. As a descendant of the original Monkey King, his strength was still a force to be reckoned with, even if it was lower than his ancestor's. The Serpent was about to open its maw but before it could fire its beam, Kuroka and Elaine intervened. With her Senjutsu fire, she blasted it directly in the mouth, causing it to howl and wriggle while Elaine bound it with chains made from magic.

"Get back!" Vali ordered.

Shadows spewed from its scales as it glared at the approaching duo of Issei and Arthur.

"Not this time." Issei said.

Extending his right arm, he let his power loose, creating a burst of navy mana that washed away the shadows. Issei's gut feeling was correct. He didn't understand how or why yet, but he knew that now was their chance to finish this.

He opened his left hand and from the material of his gauntlet, crafted a giant sword that was almost as tall as he was. With a split blade of navy and silver, Issei charged forward, enveloping his weapon with a fiery navy aura. Alongside him, Arthur sprinted with the True Excalibur, which shined brightly with golden light, untouched by the Serpent's hex.

"You're not getting away." Lefay said.

Even with her tear-stained eyes, they reflected her resolved as she created a sealed dome of magic to keep the creature from escaping.

Issei jumped into the air before coming down like a guillotine whilst Arthur slashed upward like a rocket. Just before the Serpent could melt into shadow, Issei let out a pulse of navy mana once again. As if stunned and frozen still with pain and shock, the Serpent was now vulnerable for the killing blow. At the same time, the two sliced in different directions, beheading the Serpent as they launched toward different ends.

(Naruto Shippuden OST – Emergence of Talents/Hyakka Ryouran. End Song.)

The battle was now over, with the Serpent dissipating into particles, leaving no corpse behind. Issei stared at it as he recalled the events that allowed for the monster's defeat.


It was when he had been surrounded by darkness, unable to see anything beyond the purple clouds. He couldn't hear anything and he wasn't even sure if he was feeling properly. He hated it. He hated the fact that his friends were in danger and were possibly getting killed and he was powerless to do anything. In this life, he didn't have much in the way of personal relations. He had his parents and acquaintances but that was it. The Lucifer Clan was really the only other source of value in his life. He'd damn himself if he was just going to let them get hurt.

He reflected on the battle earlier, since his mind refused to let him be. When he had that bout with Ashoka, he knew he was being toyed with. It honestly seemed true that Ashoka didn't want to kill him. Not only that, but he'd been unable to get a hit in that put him down. Yes, he'd struck Ashoka several times and dealt damage but it wasn't enough. And then, that Serpent came along and his current strength wasn't enough. He had yet to do anything to truly help out. He needed power. He needed more power.

"If power is what you desire, then it is closer than you think."

There it was. A cold and unnerving voice that radiated power, authority, and terror into one. It was like before, when he tapped into Bahamut's power.

"If you wish to protect those dear to you, then you need only call for it. Call for the power that is meant to rectify. Should your heart be where it must be, then you shall be worthy. Summon it and put down that accursed abomination. Strike it down and make the one who sent it, know your strength."

Issei felt himself go into a trance of sorts. He felt like he was awake but at the same time, it was as if he'd been shoved to the side. Yet, those words resonated with him. He wanted power, the power that he knew that could deal with this situation. He needed to get rid of that cloud of darkness and he needed something that could cut the head off that snake. He needed a blade. No, he needed more than that. He needed even more power that would not fail him in the future.

"Use your desire. Use that power that you've been gifted and call it to you. It's been waiting for you. All you need is the willpower and a strong heart. Use that righteous fury." That cold voice said.

With no more hesitation, Issei focused with all his focus from his mind and soul.

"I need more power."

Then, as if snapping back into the real world, he saw something tearing its way through the cloud of darkness. It was a grey and rusty gauntlet. Yet, when it placed itself onto his left hand, it transformed. Doused in navy flames, the gauntlet transformed, becoming reminiscent of his right gauntlet, but with different features.

"This is…" Issei gasped.

This was another piece of the Calamity Catalyst. This had to be it. There were supposed to be several pieces to the set and this was one of them. The moment it equipped to him, a burst of navy mana erupted from around him and it just gave him a feeling that told him what it was.

Issei sighed. That wasn't the end of it, however. He was now asking how the Serpent got there and just how it came to be. It had felt so random but at the same time, it made some sense. Someone had taken advantage of all the commotion to try and eliminate them, or the Hero Faction, or both sides, really. It bothered him, yet he couldn't do anything about it for lack of information.

He looked at his hands as the gauntlets faded away. He had now gotten a new ability, but he didn't know if it boded ill or well for him.


Soon enough, aid had arrived. Uther had been taken in by the Vatican's healers, who personally oversaw his care. As it turned out, Uther would survive but would be unconscious for a short while. In the mean time, the Pendragon Compound was in dire need of repairs. Thankfully, the Pendragon House was able to deal with it.

Thanks to Mordred's persuasions and some outside work, the entire company was helping with the Main Family's circumstances. The next day after the battle, came many objectives. Arthur had decided to settle a matter that he'd left alone for 3 years whilst Issei decided to go see Merlin, who wanted to meet with him.


Indulging in Merlin's hospitality, Issei found that the old mage was far more welcoming than he'd imagined. In his head, he pictured a grumpy old man that spoke in riddles and lectures. Yet, there was a young man who greeted him like an old friend.

"I'm glad to see that you all came out of that ordeal fine, and stronger, to boot." Merlin smiled.

"May I ask why you wanted to see me?" Issei asked.

"I figured that I had information that would be of help to you. Also, I was going to tell you about the piece of Bahamut that the Pendragon's guarded, but it looks like you've already obtained it." Merlin looked at his left arm.

"How did they get it?" Issei asked.

"The previous owner of that gauntlet was dying. Back then, it was around the time Camelot fell. They were wounded and dying. However, rather than risk someone else finding it, that Host decided to separate that Gauntlet from himself and gave it to the Pendragons to safekeep. I don't know the exact reasons for all that, myself, but I saw bits and pieces with my farsight."

"Why do the pieces separate at death?"

"Like the Heavenly Dragons, the Hosts of Bahamut also inherit Sacred Gears through the Biblical System. From one to another, the soul of Bahamut carries over to a new individual. However, here's the thing. Only the Abyssal Core moves on. The other pieces of Bahamut that have been obtained and fused with the Host's soul, separate at that person's death and rematerialize randomly across the globe."

"Why?" Issei asked.

"It's to keep the risks of awakening Bahamut at bay. With each piece of the Calamity Catalyst you obtain, the more complete and stronger Bahamut becomes. Naturally, that means Bahamut will grow more aware and stir in his slumber. Thus, the pieces must be separated when the Host dies or that power will carry over to the next person and lead to a path that will consume them."

Issei had been told of Merlin's ability to see from afar, so he assumed this was why he knew so much about the Calamity Catalyst. He must've seen all that before.

"Why did it come to me? It felt too easy." Issei said as he raised his left arm.

"You're host to one of the most dangerous entities to ever exist. That being's soul lies within yours. Bahamut isn't truly dead, nor is he completely silent. Bahamut is aware, to a degree. I'm sure Bahamut is most eager to become whole again and is willing his other pieces to come to him when they're near. When that gauntlet detected you, it must've been instantly fused with you because Bahamut knew another piece of itself was near. The next time you think you're close to a piece of it, think very carefully. Do you want that power, truly? And what will happen if you complete it?" Merlin sternly warned him.

"What else can you tell me?" Issei asked, wanting to avoid those questions. For now, he wanted all the information he could get.

"Well, for starters, in case you haven't tried it out, your new piece can create weapons from your own armor. Whatever weapon comes to mind, shall be made in your hand, so long as you can imagine it. Unfortunately, that's all that I can tell you, since the Host that I knew, never made it past that Gauntlet." Merlin sighed.

"And is this why you wanted to talk to me?"

"I wanted to meet you because I wanted to warn you that growing stronger is always dangerous. The more power you obtain, the more enemies and allies will be drawn to you. Sometimes, when you obtain power, a price must be paid. In this dimension and others, that law can always happen. It's a double-edged sword. I'm not telling you to stop growing since you can't stay like this. However, I want you to think about the disasters that could come about of your actions, whether they're big or small, personal or non-related. I'm sure you know of how Bahamut ended up being chopped into pieces and spread across the globe." Merlin stated.

"I understand." Issei nodded.

Issei had a lot of thoughts but decided to keep them to himself. Honestly, it was starting to impact him, knowing that so many people were wary or even scared of him growing stronger. Was Bahamut truly so fearsome that others had to use words to deter him and not force? Was force the catalyst that would trigger another calamity? People seemed to want to keep him from gaining more strength but they didn't go all the way to stop him. They were probably afraid of what he might do.

"Now, that's enough outta me. I'm certain you have a life to return to. I've already given you all the information that I intended and you've already got the 3rd piece of Bahamut. Still, I'm always open to talks, should you need one." Merlin smiled as he munched on a scone.

Merlin seemed chatty but clearly, he didn't seem too eager to make him stay either.

"Regardless, it was an honor to meet you, Merlin. I'll be on my way now."

The old mage only smiled. When Issei was out of sight, Merlin's expression changed. It was one of nostalgia, maybe even sadness, though there was a hopeful smile there too.

(Doctor Who OST – The Doctor Forever. Play Song.)

"It was an honor to see you again, Galahad. I'm glad that this time, you and Arthur have reunited under happier circumstances."


Back at the Pendragon Compound, which was swiftly repaired, everyone was preparing to depart, though, Arthur was intent on leaving properly this time.

The Pendragon family had gathered in the Hall, with Arthur and Lefay having made a decision.

"Here." Arthur gave Mordred an envelope.

"What's this?" Mordred chuckled.

Opening it, his jaw dropped.

"What?!"

"I have a new life now and have no need of that mantle. The title as heir to the Pendragon family is yours." Arthur smiled.

"You're the son of the House Head and you're just gonna throw this away?" Mordred was stunned.

"I've already talked to my parents. I think it's best that you become the new head. I'm not suited for leadership and Lefay has no interest in that position either. After what's happened, I've decided that it's best that you become the new head. Us, siblings, have already created new lives elsewhere and are content to live it. All the same, the House will need an heir too. Thus, I relinquish my right of succession to you. Clarent was a sword of peace and it can be wielded by you. The original Mordred had to curse it with dark magic to use it, but the sword doesn't resist you. It proves to me that you have just as much right to lead as I did, if not even more. Make sure to take care of everybody."

Arthur extended his hand. Mordred graciously shook it, although he still seemed stunned.

"I will."

Arthur and Lefay turned to their parents. While Uther wasn't completely healed, he was able. Although he was going to stay in a wheelchair for several months, he insisted on seeing his children, much to many chagrins.

"Well, at least you're not leaving in the dark of night this time." Eldwynn smiled.

"We'll keep in touch this time." Lefay promised.

"You'd better. I see you work yourself to the bone all the time, so make sure that you don't overdo it. You try so hard, but you need to see that you're doing so much already. You're my precious little girl and I don't want you to waste your own happiness and youth. Indulge yourself once in a while too." Eldwynn patted her head.

Lefay only nodded as her mother hugged her.

Arthur looked at his father, who extended a hand.

"I'm proud of you, son. I promise, I'll try harder this time. So, make sure you take care of yourself until the next time we see each other." Uther smiled.

"I will." Arthur returned a genuine smile of his own.

Uther and Eldwynn then turned to the Vali Peerage.

"While we don't know who messed with the company's affairs, we're still searching for the culprit. It seemed that someone was trying to have the entire company and Pendragon House tear itself apart. However, that doesn't change the fact that you've all done immense favors for us. For that, we thank you. If the Alliance ever needs us, then you need only call. No matter when and where, we'll be there." Uther declared.

"We greatly appreciate that, Lord Pendragon. We'll take care to remember. The same could also be said of us." Vali politely nodded.

With everything said and done, the group left the Household. Eldwynn had told them that they needed to pass the front gate in order to teleport now, since they'd beefed up security.

"So, how come you didn't say goodbye to Elaine?" Lefay asked Arthur.

Truth be told, he tried to find her all day, but couldn't. It saddened him. She'd completely disappeared from the premises of the Pendragon Compound. When he asked his mother, she'd told him that she'd already resigned and had chosen to leave the Pendragon House. It saddened him, but Arthur understood. Roland Westcott's connection to the Pendragon House was the only reason why she'd stayed after Arthur and Lefay left. Now that the struggle was over, Elaine probably wanted to get as far away from all this as possible. She had a fresh slate in front of her now. It didn't help that he didn't get to see her since that chaotic night, though.

Exiting the gates, Arthur stopped in his tracks. Standing next to the gates, was Elaine, who had an assortment of belongings with her.

"Looks like you almost forgot me again." Elaine chuckled.

"Elaine?!" Arthur and Lefay were flabbergasted.

"Oh, forgot to tell you, Elaine's gonna be living with us now." Issei raised a finger in remembrance.

"Yeah, she approached us that night about joining the Peerage." Vali also remembered.

"What?" Lefay excitedly exclaimed.

"She offered her services as a member of the Peerage, she had nowhere to go, and she could do so much better than being a maid, so we had this happen." Vali shrugged with a smile.

"My father was my only family left. Now that he's dead, I decided that I needed to move on with my life and do something else. That's why, I'm going to be selfish for once and come with you." Elaine declared, smiling.

"Oh my god, this is great!" Lefay lunged forward and pulled Elaine into an ecstatic embrace.

"And with this, our crazy family just got bigger." Vali chuckled.

"No, I'll be making sure that these two stay in line." Elaine pointed at Arthur and Lefay.

"What?!" Lefay looked offended.

"Well, you two are so wayward so Lady Vali will need another pair of eyes to keep you two from running rampant." Elaine sighed.

"And these two." Vali pointed at Bikou and Kuroka.

"Thank god, I'm not one of them." Issei muttered.

Arthur was stunned, but he wasn't going to lie, he was elated by this. He smiled and extended his hand. Eager, Elaine ran right towards him as she dived forward for a strong embrace. Finally, at long last, they could be together without fear of what others would do.

(Doctor Who OST – The Doctor Forever. End Song.)


When they returned home to the Lucifer Mansion, Elaine was immediately moved in. Later that night, Elaine had just finished settling in, having changed into a nightgown for bed. That was when a knock came at the door. Opening it, Arthur stood there, smiling.

"I'm sorry for visiting so late. May I come in?"

"Of course."

This was certainly nostalgic for Arthur. They used to meet like this in hidden rooms within the Pendragon Compound or far away in some secret shed. Now, they could openly talk without worry. It was so liberating.

"So, how're you holding up?" Arthur asked.

"Everything's been great. The maids and butlers are nice and always willing to help. The view is beautiful. The food is delicious and there's so much that I want to explore." Elaine walked over to her window to get a good look of the distant city.

"That's not what I meant." Arthur softly said.

Elaine's head lowered. She nodded. She knew where he was getting at. Things were already on such a happy note today, she wanted to have a peaceful night.

"Elaine…I'm sorry."

After all this and thinking back on it, the weight of his actions were setting in for Arthur. His own selfishness had harmed so many people close to him and he needed to start making up for it.

"Nothing was your fault, Lord Arthur. It was inevitable."

"First, I left you without a word, practically leaving you at the mercy of the Pendragon House. Lefay soon followed. Then, conspiracies started tearing the House apart. Next, your father died. Elaine, I know you're not okay."

Arthur took a deep breath. He was really trying his best to communicate properly.

"I'm sorry for leaving you behind. I was so fixated on filling that new whole in my chest that I didn't even remember you. I didn't say a word and I know that hurt you. However, I want you to know that I'm here now."

"As I said, Lord Arthur, I'm fine. I've never blamed you for what happened." Elaine shook her head.

"Have you noticed that you called me 'Lord' ever since I came in here?"

Arthur knew that Elaine had done it involuntarily in order to help her mind cope and defend itself. She was the type to hold herself back, no matter what. He didn't want that. He wanted Elaine to finally feel the freedom that she'd earned. She didn't need to be Elaine, the Maid, anymore, she could be Elaine Westcott. In order to do that, she needed to let it all out so that those painful experiences wouldn't become traumas.

Arthur walked over to her and gently turned her around. The memory of being told about her father's death replayed itself over and over within her mind. It was bringing her to tears as her willpower slowly crumbled. He looked at her and felt even worse. Her lips were quivering, her brows furrowed, and tears were starting to form at the corner of her eyes.

"You don't have to control yourself like this anymore. I'm here for you now. I swear, from now on, I'll always be there for you. I will always love you, Elaine. From now on, we'll share in each other's lives and this time, we won't have to lie anymore. We can truly love each other without the judgement of others or our own fears. I love you, Elaine Westcott."

That was it. Those words were the final blow that smashed apart Elaine's control as she began to loudly sob. Elaine dived into his arms as she let the withheld emotions finally settle in. All of the repressed pain she felt for the past 3 years finally came out. She could finally be free and happy, just like how she and Arthur had always wanted.

'I swear, we'll be together for real this time.' Arthur held her close.

The chains binding him, Elaine, and Lefay were gone. Their family bond was repaired and all was well again. As it would turn out, it wasn't fighting and the desire to test himself that would fill that void in his heart. It was achieving peace with himself that did it. It was obtaining what really mattered in life that fixed his emptiness, which was love. From now on, that desire to fill that empty part of him was gone. He was whole again.


Alrighty, that's the end of that and like always, thanks for reading and have a good day/night.