Disclaimer: I do not own Fate/Stay Night or Highschool DxD, or any of its character's, and make no money of this.


Whenever I see a group of high school kids these days simply sitting together, chatting without a care in the world, I remember…

I remember that there was a time when I was like them.

Those people...

They helped me learn how to laugh again.

But once again, I've forgotten how to laugh.

I can now only smile bitterly as I remember the people I called my friends.


Chapter 3:

Daily life with devils and mages


Just how did I end up here?

Blood... So much dark red blood… blood was splattered everywhere, some of it still fresh, while others were coagulating or completely dry.

Am I dreaming?

Corpses... So many lifeless bodies, dismembered, disemboweled, and mutilated. The bodies are already rotting away from the heat encompassing them. The Flies and other insects were dancing around the decomposing parts, using their lifeless carcasses as an incubator for their larva.

I am sure I fell asleep in my room, and yet...

Arrows... are piercing through the bodies of the dead. Vital shots… every hit was meant to instantly kill a person without prolonging their suffering. Most of them ran through two of the main human organs, the heart and the brain.

How did I end up in this horrible place?

There's only death around me. Under my feet there's the sand of the desert that I currently find myself in. Sand soaked red with the blood of all the corpses that surround me. I look and note that all the bodies are male. Most of them are in their prime, some even looked like they just graduated high school, but all of them are armed with different types of firearms... terrorists perhaps?

''Shirou...''

I can't be sure... I can't ask them since they're dead... all of them were killed with arrows and looking closer at their other wounds, by swords as well.

''Shirou wake up.''

I saw hell.

''Shirou come on, wake up.''

I tried to move my body; something poked my right side as I tried. I looked at my right hand, there is dark bow in it. My eyes widened as I made a connection between the dead men on the ground and me.

''He isn't waking up.''

''Then time for plan B~''

Did I kill them? Why? Why would I kill them? Why like this? I don't understand?

But most important of all... why is it that I don't feel affected by this terrifying scene at all?

Am I- Buahhh!


My body jumped up in my bed as I felt a wet stinging sensation all over my body. I looked at myself and saw that I was drenched from my head to toe in cold water. My first thought was of me dreading the possibility of having had an accident, but I quickly dropped that idea when considering the amount of water present and that I saw both Iri and Leysritt in my room. The fact that Liz was holding an empty bucket in her hand only cemented their involvement.

''Morning Shirou~'' Iri greeted me with cheerful smile, Liz just waved her hand at me signaling her 'hello'.

''What the hell do you think you're doing?'' I asked them, my tone was just as cold as my clothes were. I never considered myself a morning person, but I highly doubted I needed a freaking bucket of ice cold water to wake me up!

''Bad!'' Iri did a karate chop on my head. ''Is that the kind of language you should use around your mother Shirou?''

I rubbed the place she hit me. It may hurt a little, but it's nothing compared to slap she gave me yesterday. Now that I think about it, it's better this way. At least she seems to be back to her usual cheerful self. ''Yeah, sorry.'' I apologized as I got up from my bed as the water was dripping off of me and onto the floor. ''Now would you be so kind and tell me why you woke me up at 5:00 A.M. with an ice cold bucket of water to top it?''

''Training.'' Liz stated simply.

''Training?'' I asked confused, as always I can never get past her perfect poker face.

''Yep.'' Iri confirmed cheerfully as she threw me a pair of dry clothes and a towel. ''You see Shirou we thought about it long and hard, and decided that you will require some extra help considering your new devil crisis.'' She explained while being entirely too cheerful about it.

A rather crude way to describe the crazy stuff I've been going through the past couple days, but I guess the word 'crisis' sounds unusually appropriate. I sighed tiredly. ''Fine, fine I get it.'' I began to tug upon my wet shirt with the intention of taking it off, but stopped as I looked at my present audience. ''Can I at least change in peace?'' I asked them a bit awkwardly, it didn't help with the way that Liz usually stares at me.

''Oh~ is someone feeling a little shy? I don't mind leaving, but maybe Liz wanted to stay and look.'' She teased with half-lidded eyes. I take it back, with the risk of getting slapped I want the serious Iri from yesterday! '' J-Just leave me alone!'' I shouted at them, Iri then proceeded to go out of my room laughing while dragging Liz in toe with her. For a moment I could've swore Liz was pouting when she was forced to leave, but I'm probably just seeing things. After all, why would Liz pout just because she couldn't see me change?


After drying myself and putting some warm clothes on I decided to get on with their so called training. I noticed that they weren't anywhere in the house so I went outside to look for them. When I found them, I wasn't expecting to find them like this.

For one thing Iri was wearing a magenta hakama, a pink haori, and a pair of black armguards. Her hair was tied up in a ponytail and she was also holding a naginata. Well that wasn't the most shocking part since that was actually the same naginata that I've seen hanging above her bed.

Rather the most shocking part came from Leysritt. While she wasn't dressed in anything weird per se, just a rather tight track suit whose top seemed heavily strained, it was what she was holding that made me break out into a nervous sweat and put me in a state of confusion. ''Liz...'' I began, my finger slowly pointing to the thing in her hand. ''What… is that?''

''My halberd.'' She responded casually as she pointed it to me. It was easily two heads longer than her, the metal on the blade seemed to be from a white metal, and over the blade there is a red marking painted on it.

''Your halberd...'' I repeated after her, not even sure how I should react at this moment.

''My halberd.'' She nodded; somehow I could see a glint of pride in her eyes, like a small spark of joy in showing off a favorite possession.

''Just where have you been keeping that thing?'' I asked surprised that I could even say that much with a straight face considering how my mind is currently reeling.

''Under my bed.'' She answered simply, as if I was asking her something very normal, like what time is it or what would you like to eat?

...

You know what, screw it. I don't care anymore how she managed to keep that thing in the house without Illya or me ever finding it, nor am I asking her how she is able to even lift the damn thing since its way bigger than she is!

Though I have to admit it is a pretty impressive piece of weaponry. So with that in mind, I steered the conversation back to the original purpose of why we were all out here in the first place.

''So… what is this training you were talking about?'' I asked Iri who seemed to be in a rather cheerful mood, I wonder if it's because of those new clothes.

''I'm glad you asked Shirou.'' She chirped as she pointed her naginata at me. I couldn't help but think of how a mother really shouldn't point sharp dangerous things at her child like that. ''Starting from today the three of us, plus Maiya, are going to train you and make you into a proper fighter.''

''Umm...'' I began, not sure how to say this. ''I don't want to burst your bubble, but Maiya-san isn't here. Also there are only two of you.''

Iri sighed tiredly. ''Yeah I know, Maiya said she needs to get her gear together in order to train you effectively, and we're only two right now since Sella is feeling a little depressed at the moment.''

''Wait, what's wrong with Sella?'' I asked quickly, I did notice that Sella seemed rather 'off' yesterday when we talked about this whole situation. I initially thought she was just tired... guess it was more than that.

''She'll be fine.'' Iri told me, even though she was still smiling her eyes seemed to drift to the side as if in thought. ''She just needs some time to get used to the idea.''

Idea? What is she talking about?

''Anyway.'' She tapped the wooden part of the naginata to the ground. ''The basic idea is that Sella will be in charge of your magic training, Maiya will be in charge of your combat training, and Leysritt will be your sparring partner.''

For some reason the part about Sella teaching me magic sounds appropriate, maybe it's because of her strict teacher like personality. The same can be said about aunt Maiya, her rather serious personality and her habit to prioritize efficiency for various matters makes it sound ok for her to teach me combat. But the last part...

''You want me to fight Liz?'' I asked a bit perplexed, sure Liz is a little stronger than the average female, but still…

''Don't worry, all I want is just some light sparring to see how well you fare in battle.'' Iri explained.

That didn't really answer my question. ''I don't know about this. I wouldn't want to hurt Liz.'' I admitted as I scratched my cheek, truth be told I wouldn't want to hurt anyone.

Iri stared at me for a few seconds, then exploded into an intense laughter. ''Oh Shirou~, you won't be the one doing the hurting.''

I looked confused for a few seconds as I stared at Iri, not understanding what she meant by that. The answer however arrived the next moment as Liz leaped forward and was right in front of me. ''I'm pretty strong.'' She commented nonchalantly as she began her attack on me.


''Hey Shirou, you alive?'' Leysritt asked, as she casually poked my face with her finger.

My head, no, my legs, no, my arms... oh screw it, there isn't a part of my body that isn't currently screaming in agony from the one sided beat down I had just received from Liz. How can so much strength come from a woman of her stature is far beyond me.

I am not a martial arts experts or a person with deep experience when it comes to fighting, but I can still tell some stuff apart. Liz didn't use a particular fighting style or anything too complicated, she just kept hitting me until I stopped standing up. I should be thankful that she only used the dull part of the weapon on me and not anything else.

''Well, that certainly was boring.'' Iri commented with a sigh as she continued to heal my bruises. I was really shocked when her hands began glowing, but I was feeling too beat up at the moment to even move or protest. It was only when the pain started reducing little by little that I realized what she was doing. Apparently 'healing magecraft' as she called it, is one of the specialties of the Einzbern house.

''There, all done.'' She spoke as she got up and gave me some space to move. I lifted myself up and was surprised. While I am still tired from the sparring itself, the bruises and cuts made by Liz are now gone.

''So…'' I began, bending my neck to the side, a stiff cracking sound could be heard as I did it. ''How did I do?''

She put her index finger on her lower lip and made a thinking sound as she pondered her response. ''You suck Shirou.'' She told me without any restraint. ''But since it was only a spar and your first time I will let it slide. I hope Maiya can drill in some fighting technique into you.''

I sighed in defeat. I never considered myself a fighting expert, but I know how to hold my ground in a fight, so it feels rather embarrassing getting beat up like this. ''Why did you suddenly want me to train like this anyway?''

''Shirou.'' Her smiled dropped and was replaced by a serious look. ''I already talked to Sella, you somehow managed to awaken a power that allowed you to beat that magician. You did that on your first try and without any kind of formal training. It may have worked this time, but there is a very high chance that you won't be so lucky next time.''

She walked in front of me and placed her hand over my shoulder. ''We believed that keeping you in the dark about the supernatural was for the best, we clearly were wrong. We may have failed to protect you when you needed it, but this time we will try our best to be there for you. We may not be able to protect you all the time, so the least we can do is help you get stronger.''

I stared into her eyes for a few moments... I guess she is right. My memories from the fight are a little hazy right now, but I know for a fact that I used some kind of power. A power which I didn't know how to access should the situation call for it again, I should try to learn how to defend myself.

I should become stronger if not for my own sake, than I should do it for theirs.

''I understand.'' I acknowledged as I rubbed my neck. I took a deep breath and looked at the sky. The sun was already up heralding a new day. ''What time is it?''

Iri looked at the watch on her hand. ''It's 7:30 A.M.''

''Are we done? I still have school you know.'' I told them with a sigh, the last thing I want is getting chewed out by my teachers for being late.

''Yep, and remember we're doing this again tomorrow at the same hour.'' She puffed up her chest and hit the ground with the hilt of the naginata, as if to proclaim that was the final word on that.

''Yeah, yeah.'' I commented as I walked away while waving goodbye to Iri. Supernatural or not, I still can't grasp my mother's personality.

I really need to take a shower. Who would've thought that getting your ass kicked can make you sweat like this?

As I entered the house and went to the stairs, I noticed that someone was beginning to go down on them. ''Morning Sella.'' I greeted her kindly with a smile.

The moment she saw me she seemed to flinch, her eyes drifting to the side as if to avoid looking at me. ''M-Morning.'' Sella greeted me back in a tired and sad tone.

Iri did say that she seemed rather depressed lately but still, this isn't like her at all. ''Sella is everything ok?'' I asked her, the concern obvious in the tone of my voice.

''Everything is fine. '' She said barely above a whisper as she passed by me.

My eyes watched her figure as her frail looking body made its way to the kitchen. Even if you say that you're fine... why did your eyes look like they wanted to cry as soon as you saw me?

Just what is bothering you Sella? This thought echoed in my mind as I got ready for school.


Salt.

The pastry that I'm eating needs more salt. It was getting late and after I took a quick shower I didn't have time to have a proper breakfast, so I had to pick up something fast from a local bakery.

As I munched on my rather inconsistent breakfast I arrived at the school gate. I stopped chewing my food as I stepped in the school grounds.

Weird...

That's the only way I can describe the current sensation I'm having. I can feel something, but I don't know what it is. It's like I know that there's something unusual here, but I can't tell what it is or what the source is. All I know is that it's making my nose feel uncomfortable.

Maybe I should ask Shitori-senpai.

I brush off those thoughts as I heard the school bell signaling that classes would soon begin. I'm not going to be late today! With that I picked up my pace and ran the rest of the way

I sighed as I stretched myself out in my seat. Kuzuki-sensei's lessons are as difficult and boring as usual, nothing new there. But I guess some boring and quiet lessons are just what I need right now after the mayhem that I've been through the past couple of days.

I rubbed my tired eyes as if to clear my exhaustion. I stayed up late last night reading the book that senpai gave me. It certainly was enlightening to say the least, I learned I'm in much bigger shit than I could have ever imagined, that's for sure.

''Hello, earth to Emiya!'' my thoughts were cut off by the person behind me. I leaned my head over the edge of the chair and looked at who called out to me. It's always interesting to see things upside down.

''Hi Mitsuzuri.'' I greeted my old friend casually.

''What gives, I've been calling you all weekend and you haven't called me back even once.'' She complained, she looked at me for a few seconds and let out a whistle. ''Wow, you look like hell. What happened, did you get lucky with a girl last night?'' she smirked amused at me.

''Real funny.'' I rolled my eyes. ''I've been busy. '' Getting attacked by a homicidal magician and then getting dragged into the supernatural world tends to make you busy.

''Someone sure is grumpy today.'' She leaned against her desk, her head was above mine. You should try getting up with a bucket of cold water when the sun has barely started rising. It sure is a nice way to start the day. ''Anyway did you hear the latest achievements of the perverted-trio?''

I could already feel my eyes twitch. ''What did they do this time?''

''They were caught peeping in the girls locker room again, but the funny part is that this time they tried sneaking in using the air system and their combined weight was too much for it. Next thing they knew the three of them crashed right into the middle of the girls that were changing.''

My eyes half closed at the thought of what must have happened next as a shiver went down my spine. ''That must have ended badly.''

''Pretty much. You should also take into count that the girls that were changing were from the karate club.'' She smiled amused at the three boy's misery.

''Ouch.'' It hurt even to think about it, I don't want to imagine the beating they went through.

''While I don't have any personal grudge against them, they do seem to deserve it. '' She sighed as if bored by their antics.

''No personal grudge you say?'' I rolled my eyes at her. ''Then what about that time when you caught them peeking at you and the other members of the archery club?'' A small smirk formed on my lips. ''Weren't you the one who tried to shoot them down with the practice arrows?''

''That was different!'' she protested, her cheeks forming a small amount of pink in them.

It's always interesting to see a reaction like this from Mitsuzuri. ''I'm sure it was.'' I said dryly while enjoying her reaction.

''Hmm!'' she puffed up her cheeks and turned to the side. Did I just make her angry?

''I'm bored. Want to go for a walk?'' she asked after about a minute of awkward silence.

Truth to be told, I am rather bored myself. Plus I'm feeling kind of sleepy, so a walk might put some life back into my tired body. ''Sure, why no-''

''Sorry about this Mitsuzuri, but we will be borrowing Emiya for a while.'' The moment I heard those words two pairs of arms linked around my own.

I looked puzzled at the people who were invading my personal space. The person holding on my left arm is a girl with long brown hair tied in a pair of braids and had a matching set of light brown eyes. She is also sporting a blue headband.

She is my classmate Kusaka Reya, her desk also happens to be in front of mine, but we don't really talk all that much. From what I noticed from her interactions with my other classmates she seems like a very polite person.

On my right arm is a girl with wavy white hair and blue-green eyes. Unlike Iri or Illya who have snow white hair, hers has a small tinge of blue to it, I guess it could be called frost white.

Her name is Momo Hanakai, just like Kusaka she is also my classmate, but unlike her she sits in the desk on my right side. I haven't really had too much interaction with her as well, but like Kusaka it seems she also gets along fairly well with my other classmates.

I narrowed my eyes to the two girls that are currently locked onto my arms.

''What's going on?'' Somehow Mitsuzuri had just asked them what I wanted to say myself.

''Kaichou needs to see Emiya here. Since he will be joining us there are a lot of formalities to be done.'' Hanakai explained effortlessly to my friend with a smile.

What?

''What do you mean Hanakai ?'' Mitsuzuri asked confused, to be honest I was just as confused as well.

''Oh right, it might be a bit sudden, but Emiya here will be joining the student council.'' Kusaka smiled politely to Mitsuzuri.

Ok... what?

I may have some blanks in my memory, but I for one know for sure that I didn't apply to join the student council. Just what are these two up to?

Wait.

Shitori-senpai is the student council president. So if these two are taking me there, then it must mean that senpai might want to talk to me. She did say last night that we will continue our discussion today. She also told me that all the members of the student council are...

I look at the two girls for a few moments. Seriously? Right under my nose again?

''I-Is this true Emiya?'' Mitsuzuri asked me, her expression seemed rather stunned. Does the idea of me joining the student council bother her?

At the same time she asked, the embrace of the girls on my arms increased. I think they want me to play along.

''I-It's a bit complicated, I will explain later.'' I smiled awkwardly at her, I will tell you much later when I can come up with a believable story to give you.

''Let's go shall we.'' My white haired classmate said as she and Kusaka started dragging me away leaving Mitsuzuri behind to stare at us in shock.


After we left the classroom the two girls let go of my arms and started walking next to me.

I took a look at Kusaka on my left, then took a look at Hanakai on my right. I couldn't help but feel the urge to ask them. ''So you girls are part of Shitori-senpai's little board game as well?'' I said to them while using a rather cryptic question. It doesn't hurt to be a little cautious. After all, I can't just go out and ask them directly 'Say are you girl's devils by any chance?'.

Imagine how it would turn out if the people I asked weren't, or if someone by chance overheard me asking this. Last thing I need is for people to start thinking that I'm crazy.

''Yep!'' Hanakai flashed a smile at me. ''Welcome on board Emiya.'' She answered. It seems that they got my message, well that answers one of my questions.

I could feel the edge of my mouth tremble a little. Two of my classmates are devils. While I shouldn't be shocked by it now, I can't seem to help it. The very idea that I'm going to a school that has devils in it sounds so weird in my head.

''So all this time you two were devils?'' I asked in defeat. Maybe I should listen to Mitsuzuri and try to be more perceptive about what goes on around me. With the way things are going right now I wouldn't be surprised if Kuzuki-sensei is some kind of former assassin gone into hiding. Now that would be totally ridiculous.

''Not exactly.'' Kusaka tapped her lower lip with her finger. ''Both Momo and I became devils during our first year of high school. So we've only been devils for about a year more or less.''

''I see.'' So they are reincarnated devils like me... or it would be like me if I was a normal devil, but I don't even know if I'm devil or something else right now.

''We were really excited when Kaichou told us that you are our new comrade.'' Hanakai explained as she stretched her arms upwards.

''Why is that?'' I raised my eyebrow. Is there any really real reason to be excited over me joining?

Kusaka answered before Hanakai . ''I think it's more of a matter of having some boys in our ranks. You may not know it, but up until now there were only girls in Kaichou's peerage. So the thought of having some boys on our team is a bit exciting.''

I nodded slowly. Well that doesn't sound so bad. I was actually suspecting some deeper or darker reasons, don't know why though.

Wait a second. ''Boys?'' I asked confused.

''Yes. Besides you, there's also a boy from class 2-C that was recruited by Kaichou a few days ago. Kaichou decided to do the introduction of both of you together to save time.'' Kusaka explained.

''I see.'' So there will be another guy besides me. Well that actually sounds reassuring now that I think about it. Somehow the idea of me spending time surrounded only by women doesn't really appeal to me that much. I already do that at home and it really gives me headache sometimes.

I'm from class 2-B and I don't have any friends or acquaintances in class 2-C, so it makes me wonder what kind of person he is.

''Speak of the devil and he will appear. Pun intended.'' Hanakai laughed as she gestured in front of us. There was another group of students. I took note of all the new faces I saw before me.

On the right were two girls. One girl having shoulder-length, reddish-brown hair tied in two bushy twin tails, and brown eyes.

The other one had her brown hair tied into long twin ponytails, which also sported a pair of green clips in them. The color of her eyes is also green, and unlike the rest of the group, she wore striped green stockings.

On the left there is a fairly tall girl with blue hair and matching blue eyes. Her facial features aren't what I would call very girly but had a somewhat sharper look to them yet wasn't any less attractive. She reminds me a bit Mitsuzuri to be honest, and she also seems similarly tomboyish.

Last, but not least, the person in the middle is a boy. He looks to be about the same height as me, his hair is short blonde, and his eyes are flint grey. Unlike most of the boys of this school who wear their full uniform he seems to sport a more casual look, not wearing a coat or a blazer and having his sleeves rolled up.

I somehow recognized all the girls in the group. Occasionally I sometimes saw them when I went to the student council room to see senpai, but I've never really gotten to know any of them personally. It also didn't help that whenever I would meet with senpai the other members were usually away either. I guess our relationship can be said to be that of 'acquaintances' with each other.

The boy however I had never seen before.

''Speak of the devil and he will appear. Pun intended.'' The girl with the green clips giggled as our groups met.

''That's what I said.'' Hanakai laughed at her fellow student council member. I didn't really see the funny part in this coincidence but oh well.

I drifted my eyes to the side. Well would you look at that, we are already at the student council room.

''Let's go, let's go!'' the girl with reddish-brown hair exclaimed cheerfully. ''You know how snippy Kaichou becomes when we're late.''

When we entered the room I quickly noticed the people in it. Right next to the desk was a fairly tall girl with long black hair that extended all the way down to her knees, light brown eyes, and a pair of blue semi-rimmed glasses with square lenses.

She is Tsubaki Shinra, the vice-president of the student council. I had some interactions with her a few times in the past, and from what I can tell she is a pretty serious person. Not as serious as Shitori-senpai, but still overall a nice person.

Next to Shinra-senpai is my new master, Sona Sitri.

I sure didn't have any idea what I was truly getting myself into when she explained my current situation. At least that book that she lent me shed some light on some of my questions. For instance, I now know the basic history of devils, how the evil piece system was created, and how it all roughly is supposed to work.

So everyone present here is a part of senpai's peerage. Learning the mechanics of a peerage was like learning a new version of an old game to be honest. Seriously its way too much like chess, but I do wonder what piece everyone has. I'm also pretty curious on what piece was used on me.

''I know it might be a little late, but I would like to officially welcome both of you to my peerage.'' Sona Sitri, my new master, greeted us. At least she seems to be doing better than last night.

''Glad to be on board!'' the other boy in the room said eagerly. I on the other hand simply nodded in return to her in greeting.

''How about we all present ourselves then, shall we?'' Senpai said as she arranged her glasses.

''Me first! Me first!'' the girl with reddish hair raised her hand enthusiastically. ''I'm Tomoe Meguri from class 2-C. I'm a Knight.''

A Knight she said, going from what I understood the evil pieces are modeled after the chess pieces they are based off of. The person that gets resurrected by them will gain the characteristics of the piece that was used.

In this case, since she is a knight she probably has great speed and mobility.

''I am Reya Kusaka from class 2-B.'' Kusaka presented herself, more to the other boy than me since we already knew each other. ''I am a Bishop.''

Bishops, are adepts to magical and mystic arts. Usually they possess vast amounts of magical reserves tending to serve as either support or long range back up.

''I'm Momo Hanakai, also from class 2-B. I'm Bishop No. 2.'' Hanakai made a small 'V' sign with her hand.

So both bishops were in my class, who would've thought it.

''I'm Tsubasa Yura from class 2-C, welcome aboard.'' She greeted us in a casual and friendly manner, her way of speaking really did resemble Mitsuzuri. Maybe I should introduce them to each other. ''I'm the team's Rook.''

Rooks, in simple terms are powerhouses. They are capable of inhuman physical strength and durability. Rooks are the tanks of the group usually serving as the shield or heavy hitters for the party.

''My name is Tsubaki Shinra, class 3-A.'' the tallest girl in the room presented herself while straightening her glasses. '' I am Kaichou's Queen.''

The Queen. The piece said to be the most powerful in the whole set. Queens possess all the characteristics of Rooks, Knights, and Bishops, making them the most balanced piece as well as the most powerful. Within individual peerages, Queens typically act as their master's second-in-command, overseeing the rest of the peerage and supposedly able to take charge if situation calls for it.

''I'm Ruruko Nimura from class 1-A, hope we can all get along.'' she greeted us with a small bow, showing her respects to us second years. ''I'm also the group's first pawn.''

Pawns. Probably the most controversial piece one can become. Unlike Knights, Bishops, Rooks, and the Queen pieces that have permanent powers, pawns allow the user to 'promote' into a different piece besides the king and gain their respective power.

In my opinion a pawn is the most versatile piece since you can promote it to any piece you may need depending on the situation. As long as you can get the approval of your king to promote, you can change and adapt, gaining new abilities to fight with. It could also help if there is a compatibility issue between the piece and the powers of the user. For instance, it would be a problem if you turn a person with zero magical potential into a Bishop or a waste for a person who specializes in magic and is weak at close combat to be turned into a Rook.

''Now that we're done, how about you gentlemen present yourselves?'' Senpai asked us with a neutral expression.

The boy next to me responded faster than me to senpai's request. ''Pleased to meet you all, I'm Genshirou Saji from class 2-C. I'm a pawn.'' He announced himself with a grin, in a rather fast pace, maybe he is a bit nervous?

For the next few moments all the eyes were focused on me. Did I do something wrong?

Oh right. I'm kind of a devil as well so... ''R-Right.'' I let out a dry cough. ''I'm Shirou Emiya, class 2-B. I'm a-'' I stopped mid-sentence when I suddenly realized something very crucial. ''And I have no idea what piece I am.'' I scratched my head awkwardly.

If these people here are all the pieces that senpai has, then it mean that I'm either a pawn, a knight or a rook.

The one who broke the awkward silence was Saji. ''Seriously dude?'' he asked after a couple of laughs. ''What kind of idiot doesn't even know what piece was used on?''

Ok... he may be right, and I'm not necessarily bothered by his comment, but for some reason I think that the two of us won't get very well along.

''It isn't his fault Saji.'' Senpai corrected him. ''Emiya wasn't in the best of conditions when he was recruited, and I omitted to mentioning his specific piece to him.''

''That so...'' Saji nodded, his face giving away to his awkwardness. ''Then what piece is he Kaichou?''

''I hope you two will get along since he is also a pawn like you.'' She informed the blonde male with a serious voice.

So I'm a pawn huh... Actually I'm glad that I am one. I don't have any idea what piece would have been most suited for me, so being a pawn will help me out as I get a better idea of things later on.

''I see, I see.'' Saji nodded his head in understanding and smiled with a rather satisfied look. ''Well then, we might not be on the same level, but let's get along newbie.'' He patted my shoulder and gave me a thumb's up.

His smile didn't show any goodwill but instead belied a little arrogance. ''Newbie? Didn't you just get recruited as well?''

''Maybe, but unlike someone else here I actually have quite the potential. I did consume four pawn pieces after all.'' His smile was anything but pleasant, I am by no means a violent person, but his grin was making my fist itch.

But then again the fact that he consumed four pawns does say something about him. From what I remembered, it's believed that the more evil pieces someone consumes when they are converted to a devil the bigger their overall potential for power is. Going further by what I read in the book I was given, normal humans don't regularly consume more than one pawn. The only exceptions I know to this rule being half-humans who inherited special traits from their inhuman parent, human magicians, and sacred gear holders.

So if that rule is applied here either this guy is some kind of half-human, a magician, or he possesses a powerful sacred gear.

He may be right, but still…

''Just because you might have consumed more pieces doesn't give you the right to be arrogant.'' I told him, my eyes rolling to the side while doing so. Really what's his problem?

His hand instantly reached me and grabbed my shirt. ''What was that punk?'' his tone was very irritated, I could see it in his eyes that he was pissed off by my remark.

I was ready to respond to his hostility, but a cold chill soon filled the room that made us both turn our heads towards our master. ''Both of you stop acting like a pair of children.'' She told us in a slow and cold tone.

Was she always this scary? Also did her glasses always glow so maliciously before?

I could feel Saji's hand trembling as it still held my shirt. ''B-But Kaichou, he starte-''

''No buts.'' She cut him off coldly. ''First of all Saji you are being disrespectful to Emiya, to your new comrades, and to me by behaving like this. Second, you are too hasty to assume that you are better or superior to him in any way yet.''

''B-But Kaichou, you used four pawns on me, and there was one already used. That means he could have used only three at the most.'' He managed to slip out of his trembling jaw.

''Yes, you are correct. Emiya did indeed consume three pawns, less than the number you consumed, but the quality of his pieces outrank yours.''

''I don't get it.'' He commented after a few seconds of silence. Strangely enough, I also don't understand what she meant by 'quality'.

''When I tried to resurrect Emiya, I first tried using my Knight piece on him, and it failed. I then proceeded and tried using my Rook piece on him, it failed as well. So I was forced to use all my remaining pawns on him.'' She explained professionally to us.

Hmmm, so that's how it went. Odd, something feels wrong with what she said. Before I could even ask, the blue haired girl, Yura raised her hand. ''Wait a second Kaichou. If I'm not mistaken a Knight piece is about the value of three pawns, and a Rook piece has the value of five pawns. So how did you resurrect him using only three normal pawns?''

''It's because they weren't normal pawns.'' She answered without any hesitation, poking the curiosity of everyone present. ''At least not all of them.''

''Ok I'm lost.'' Saji commented while rolling his eyes.

Senpai sighed and rubbed the bridge of her nose. ''Did you even try to read the book that I gave you Saji?''

He opened his mouth to comment, but stood with it open and didn't say anything for a few moments. His face softened a little. ''A bit...''

''Moving on. The reason why I was able to resurrect Emiya using only three pawns was because one of those three pawns was a mutation piece.''

As soon as I heard this, my eyes widened in shock at what Sona said. Saji on the other hand didn't really seem to understand the meaning behind it. ''Mutation piece? What's that?''

This time Shinra-senpai chose to explain. ''It's a very rare and powerful variation of an evil piece. Unlike a normal piece that has a set value, a mutation piece can exceed that value, allowing for one single piece to substitute multiple pieces.''

Sona took on from where her Queen left off. ''While I may not know the exact value of the mutation piece that was used on Emiya, I know for a fact that it exceeds three pawns, otherwise the Rook piece would have worked on him. So if in your eyes the number of pieces used on a person determines the stronger and superior one, then Emiya outclasses you by a margin.''

''N-No w-way.'' His face lost some of its color as his head hanged in the air, depression oozing from his body like an imaginary dark cloud.

Normally I wouldn't have chuckled at his reaction. I'm not a person who enjoys seeing other people suffer, but since this guy has been pretty arrogant since we first met I will make a small exception this time. Still… a mutation piece was used on me.

''Is something wrong Emiya?'' my new master asked.

Of course something is wrong. The revelation that she used a mutation piece on me made me feel a little awkward. From what I understood the chance of obtaining a mutation piece is only one in ten sets, and I'm talking about one single piece here, yet she used it on me. I couldn't help but sigh tiredly. ''Nothing... I just feel a bit bad that I made you waste something so rare and powerful on me.''

She was silent at first, but her eyes softened a little under her glasses. ''Emiya, your worth far exceeds the price that I paid. You may not see it now, but perhaps one day you will.''

I'm not sure if it will come true, but still her words made me feel better. ''Thank you master.''

''Kaichou.'' She corrected me. ''While we are at school call me Kaichou.''

I nodded at her, it wasn't a bad idea actually. For some reason I have a hard time calling her Shitori-senpai now knowing it isn't her real name, and calling her Sitri-senpai or master in public would be weird.

That reminds me. ''Hanakai and Kusaka said that I have to join the student council, is that true?''

''Yes. While you are not forced to join, it would be in your best interest to do so. We often gather here to discuss and solve supernatural related matters. So if you kept visiting here without being an actual member it will bring unwanted attention.'' She elaborated succinctly.

''I see.'' I guess she has a point. It would be weird if I kept randomly going to this place without any particular reason. ''Guess I know what I am supposed to write on my club application report now.'' I chuckled dryly; at least I won't get nagged by the teachers anymore to join a school club since their mandatory.

''Is there something wrong Saji?'' Shinra-senpai asked the blond man standing right behind me. I took a quick glance at him and saw his rather annoyed expression.

''I'm having a hard time accepting the fact that carrot-top over here is supposed to be better than me.'' He complained, clicking his tongue in annoyance.

Carrot-top really? My hair auburn-red, not orange-red man.

This guy is seriously starting to give me a headache. ''Do you have a problem with me or something?'' I asked him with a calm tone, though I could feel my eye's narrowing while doing so. Last time I checked I had never even met the guy, let alone given him any particular reason for him to hate me.

''Yeah I have a problem with you. I was so glad when I heard that I was the only male on the team, then out of nowhere you pop out like this. Plus if that wasn't enough it just had to be one of the schools popular guys.'' He pointed his finger accusingly at me, in a way that made me feel like I had committed some sort of crime or something.

Just what is this guy talking about? It's not like I had a choice in the matter, if he needs to complain to someone, he should do it to Sen-I mean Kaichou. Also what does he mean by popular guy?

''Ok...'' I nodded slightly to him, rolling my eyes tiredly. ''I have no idea what you're talking about.''

''The hell you don't Fake Janitor! I know all about your little plan!'' he roared at me in indignation.

''Plan?'' everyone present asked completely confused, myself included.

''Yes! Don't think that I didn't see through your 'Mister Nice Guy' routine. You act all smiles and sunshine offering help to anyone at any time, without any compensation, but all of this is nothing more than an act so you can impress the ladies!''

...

''What?'' I don't have a mirror right now to check, but something tells me that the expression on my face appears very disturbed right now.

''Do you deny it?'' he asked me maliciously, even taking a nearby lamp and turning it on in my face to shine down on me. What is this an interrogation?

''W-Well I don't deny helping people if that is what you're asking, but I nev-''

''Aha! He confessed!'' he pointed his finger in my face once again. Seriously he will poke one of my eyes out if he keeps doing that.

I honestly don't have even the slightest idea what I am supposed to do or say in a situation like this. I took a look at the people around me and they appear just as shocked and confused as I am.

''Saji.'' Kaichou spoke, her voice was calm, but her tone resonated like the crack of a whip. ''I don't know what kind of rumors you have heard about Emiya, but I can guarantee his integrity. I wouldn't have spent so many afternoons with him if he was anything beneath a proper gentleman.''

Wow. Guess Kaichou really has a high regard of me, I should try to live up to it.

I took a quick look back to Saji, his face went pale and his mouth hanged open quivering. ''S-Spent a-afternoons... perfect gentleman...'' he muttered in a completely horrified voice, as if the doctor just told him he had terminal cancer. I honestly don't understand what's wrong with the idea of me spending some time with Kaichou and discussing books.

''You bastard!'' he regained his senses, only to be overwhelmed by rage. ''I knew we wouldn't get along the moment I met you, but to think you and Kaichou had t-that kind of r-relationship... I won't forgive you!''

I didn't have any time to comment since the guy suddenly leaped at me with his clutched fist. I instinctively put my guard up. ''Yura!'' Kaichou called on her blue haired Rook.

Without any time to waste, the thin girl dashed and caught Saji. She took his tensed fist and pulled it to his back, her other arm was put around his neck to lock his movements. Saji was now struggling to break free from her hold. ''H-Hey, let go!'' he demanded with a weak voice, his skin started to change color due to the lack of oxygen the hold was causing him.

After about thirty seconds of struggling and complaining Saji finally gave in. When Yura released him, he fell to the ground gasping and was desperately trying to recover his lost oxygen.

Kaichou stood up from her seat and walked in front of Saji, her eyes glaring at him coldly. ''Saji, I want you listen very carefully.'' Her tone was just as frigid as her stare. ''While I understand it may be hard getting used to change considering your situation, it doesn't justify lashing out against your own allies. I will overlook it this time, but next time there will be consequences for such foolish actions.'' She cupped his face with her hand, making sure that he looked her straight in the eyes. ''Do I make myself clear?''

''Y-Yes ma'am!'' he managed to squeak out in fear.

''Good.'' She turned around and leaned against her desk. ''I hope this little outburst won't give you a negative impression about us Emiya.''

''N-No it's ok.'' I muttered slowly, cold sweat trailed down my face. Ok... I take back everything nice I ever said about this girl. She is really damn scary when she wants to be... it's a good thing I was never on her bad side. I better watch out how I behave in front of her in the future.

''Perfect.'' She nodded accepting my answer as she took out two papers from her desk. ''This here are your registration forms for the student council. There's a bit to write, so I won't hasten you two to finish it, but try to turn them in by tomorrow.''

I nodded slightly as I took the said paper. Saji soon followed suit, but he seemed to still be a little sore from his little encounter with Yura earlier.

''Now if you gentlemen don't have any more questions, you are free to go back to your classes.'' She told us as she began looking through some papers on her desk.

''That's all?'' both Saji and I asked at the same time.

''Yes, that would be all for today. While I admit I am a rather strict person, I also believe that overworking isn't a good thing either.'' She arranged her glasses before going on. ''So we will take things slowly and properly. The following days we will try and figure out the exact nature of your powers. So for the time being go back to your classes. I won't tolerate skipping.'' Her glasses shined maliciously as if to show off her intent.

''Yes Kaichou.'' Both Saji and I nodded without any further comments.

I must admit that this meeting was certainly different from what I expected.


Tired.

The day went on and ended fast. When I had dinner with my family I couldn't help but notice the unusual silence. I passed it off as something unimportant and just went straight to bed afterwards.

So tired.

I just want to sleep, but these weird dreams keep waking me up. It's already 2:00 A.M. and I can't seem to catch even an hour of sleep without dreaming of death, fires, or swords with me being in the middle of it all.

Is this something that happens to people once they become devils, or perhaps I'm simply too stressed out by recent events?

Maybe I should ask Kaichou tomorrow... or is it later today since it's already after midnight? ...I'm too tired to figure it out.

I went to the kitchen to get some warm milk, hoping it would help me calm down and let me catch some sleep.

When I passed through the living room I noticed that someone was watching the TV. Did Illya stay up to watch reruns of her favorite anime's again?

I walked over to her with the intention of telling her to go to bed but I dropped that idea the moment I saw who was on the couch. It wasn't Illya.

''Sella?'' I called out to her. ''Why are you awake at this hour?''

She jumped up from her seat when she heard me, I must have scared her. She looked at me for a few moments, her eyes drifted to the side and she sighed tiredly. ''Oh... it's you Shirou.''

Her tone was so slow and weak, her eyes seemed very tired, she had dark circles under them, and her hair was messy. Seeing her like this made me think that she was very sick. Iri did say that Sella seemed rather depressed, but I didn't imagine she would look so worn down due to it.

It pained me to see her like this. ''Sella... what's wrong?''

She avoided eye contact and began walking away. ''There's nothing wrong. Sorry, but I have to go.''

I looked at her as she tried to walk away... but I knew she wasn't just walking away, she was running away from me. I grit my teeth in frustration, seeing her like this and doing nothing was making me want to punch myself.

No.

I grabbed her by the wrist and stopped her in her tracks. She didn't try to struggle or complain, she didn't even turn around to look at me. She just stood in place for a few moments before breaking the silence. ''Let go.'' She told me simply, there was no emotion in her voice.

''No.'' I told her firmly. ''Not until you tell me what's wrong with you Sella.''

''I won't.'' she stated in an uncaring voice.

''Then I won't let go until you do.'' I threw out my decision, even if I can't help her I still wanted to do something.

''Let go.'' Her hand began struggling in my grip.

''No.'' my grip tightened around her wrist refusing to let go.

Each second that passed felt like hours, she wanted so desperately run away from me, I wanted to help her. We both struggled, we both refused to listen to the other, and we both were too stubborn to throw in the towel.

I never wanted to see anyone sad or cry in front of me. The sight always affected me even if it was from a complete stranger, so seeing the woman who was like a big sister to me all these years looks so sad. It made me feel so bitter. ''Sella please... I just want to help you.''

She was silent and rigid for a few moments. A swift flip of her hair brushed against my face as she turned around and faced me.

She gripped my shoulders and pushed me onto the couch, the next thing I knew she was mounted on top of me, her hands pinning my shoulders against the couch cushions. For a moment I wanted to protest in confusion, but it was when I saw her eyes that I was lost for words. Her red eyes were swollen and puffy... she was crying.

''How can you help me when you're the reason for my pain Shirou?!'' she demanded in a disturbed and ragged voice, her tears flowing down her cheeks, her lips quivering all the while.

The image I was seeing before me was just... wrong. Sella is supposed to be a strong and confident person, easy to anger and quick to draw the wrong conclusions out of situations. Seeing her look so weak and vulnerable made me think I was looking at a whole different person.

''Sella...'' I tried composing myself. ''Please just tell what I did and I will try to make up for it.''

Her face was frozen for a few seconds, she dropped her head in defeat. ''You died Shirou.'' She whispered to me in a broken tone.

My eyes went wide as her words struck my very core. ''You may be fine now Shirou... but you died trying to save me... when it was me who was supposed to protect you.'' her voice was filled with pain and regret. ''That day… if I was just a little more careful and kept my magecraft materials close to me. This entire situation wouldn't have happened. It was my duty to protect you and I failed.''

''Even though you've been brought back, it came at a cost. Your freedom is now gone, and you are now aware and even involved in the supernatural world. This life is something that your father and mother wanted to avoid happening to you. From now on every single pain and hardship you will face will be because I wasn't able to protect when you needed it." The tears dripping from her face now landed on my hands.

It took a few moments for me to take in her words, and the meaning behind them.

How could I be so blind?

That time when I talked about everything with them, I was so angry and confused that I failed to notice that Sella, Leysritt, and Iri all shared one similar trait. All three of them had puffy eyes... a sign that they had been crying.

How could I be so stupid?

Wrapped up in my own personal drama, I failed to notice how the people that I cared for were suffering because of what happened to me. I died... I did manage to come back... but I still died nonetheless. You can't expect a person to just write off something like that as something minor. All this time, the people I cared for were all suffering together with me, no in truth, they were in even greater pain than I was.

I now understand why Sella was acting the way she had been recently. She was hurting badly and guilt-ridden because every time she saw me, she would remember the image of me dying in a pool of my own blood. The feeling Sella had of her own inability to save me, having to rely on the help of a devil, and my revival costing me the loss of my humanity and liberty were constantly eating her up inside.

Who knows how much pain she must have felt, all because of me...

I'm such an idiot...

My eyes cringed in frustration at my own damn stupidity. My hands reached for the back of her head as I pulled her into a hug. ''I'm sorry Sella... I'm so sorry.'' I whispered sorrowfully to her ear. I felt like I wanted to cry... but no tears appeared... they never do... even now I just can't seem to cry.

She didn't move or say anything. She just sat quietly in my arms, the only thing I could hear from Sella was the sound of her beating heart and breath.

We sat like this for minutes, without exchanging any words, just sitting silently and feeling each other's warmth. The sensation of her soft hair brushing against my hands.

I decided to break the heavy silence that was surrounding us. ''Sella...'' I started slowly, pushing her slowly further away so I could look her in the eyes. ''You have no reason to condemn yourself for what happened. I'm not accusing you, nor am I feeling bitter towards you, so there's no reason for you to blame yourself.''

She leaned backwards, I could finally see her eyes again. They were still sad but at least there weren't any tears in them anymore. ''Shirou... this isn't something I can just forget. I know that I don't always treat you nicely, and I sometimes lash at you violently, but I would never intentionally wish for your misfortune or harm.''

''I know.''

Her shoulders began trembling. ''When I saw you getting injured, fighting, and in the end dying. I realized just how horribly I treated you all your life. There were so many times when you wanted to spend time with me, befriend me, or just talk to me. I tried to keep you at a distance, I acted really mean to you, I-''

''You're wrong!'' I told her firmly, my hands firmly gripping her shoulders. ''I never once resented you for any of that. True there were times when I felt that you hated me, but I never once held it against you.''

In that moment, memories of my childhood flashed in my mind. ''I still remember the time when mom and dad brought me here. The first few months, you were constantly watching my every step, and were throwing nasty stares at me whenever I got close to Illya. At first it felt awkward, but I eventually got used to it.''

Mom and Dad were always gone and were rarely home, so taking care of me fell on both her and Liz, and considering how Liz is, most of the job got placed on her.

''Even though you were always quite strict with me, you were also very kind and careful with me. The first time I tried to cook something, it turned out really badly and you were brutally honest with telling me that. After that I kept trying to cook again, but I still couldn't do it right and you started teaching me how to handle myself in the kitchen.''

''There were many times when I came home injured and you took care of me. Like that time when I tried saving a cat from a group of delinquents who tried to beat it with a crowbar. I ended up taking the beating instead.'' A shiver ran through my body as I remembered that. It wasn't due to the pain that they caused me, but rather by how cruel those boys were to try and beat a defenseless cat like that. ''The moment I returned home you freaked out and quickly started patching me up.''

She always acted strict and gave off the sensation that she hated me, but she also was more concerned than anyone else about me when a situation arose.

''I know our relationship wasn't always the best one that two people can have, but never did I hold any ill intent towards you.'' Our eyes were locked on one another. ''What happened in the end were the results of my own choices. I chose to fight, and it got me killed. I may regret dying, but I never once regret doing it to protect you.'' The insides of my stomach felt like they were boiling. ''If I was forced to repeat it, I would gladly do it again.'' I let go of her shoulders, awkwardly scratching my cheek while giving her a smile. ''After all, you're my precious big sister.''

Once again there was silence between us. I stared into deep into her red eyes, she was doing the same with my golden ones. She gently picked herself up and turned her back on me.

''Stupid...'' she whispered as she avoided face to face contact. Her voice was slow and gentle, a small amount of sadness was still present in it, but the majority of her sorrow from earlier was now gone. ''You can't say stuff like that to a woman... it makes it hard for her to hate you.''

She slowly began walking away, this time her walk wasn't as heavy and painful looking as it was earlier. She turned around and looked at me, a small gentle smile forming on her lips. ''Thank you.''

No, thank you Sella. Your smile was the one that helped me. ''Better get some sleep, when you wake up I will teach you all I know about magecraft. As the eldest son of the household I won't allow you to be a slacker.''

She said with a loud voice from the entrance of the room, her tone was filled with the same strictness and seriousness that I grew up with. This is the way things should be, the way they have always been. I don't want anyone in my family to change because of what happened to me.

I let out a tired sigh as I leaned my neck against the end of the couch. I want things to remain the same, I want the people I grew up with to stay the same.

Perhaps it's a bit selfish, but I can't help but like things as they are. There is no need for them to change together with me.

''Can't wait for it.'' I whispered to her with a tired smile.

So tired... maybe I should just sleep on the couch tonight. I just don't seem to have the will or energy to get up from this place.

''Wow, that was quite touching.''

My body instantly arched itself up.

Again.

It happened again.

The same voice that I heard yesterday. I looked around me, but there was no one here. It was exactly like before, am I starting to hear voices?

''I-Is there anyone there?'' no response. Of course there's no response, what am I even thinking?

Perhaps I need to talk to someone.


Omake: It's A Real Thing! Taiga Dojo Preview!

''Wow, so this will be the team that Shirou will be stuck with for a while?'' Taiga rolled her eyes as she read the 'classified data' on the Sitri team. ''Things will be getting interesting later on.''

''Instructor there is something I can't understand in this chapter. Why did Saji act the way he did towards Shirou-niichan?'' Miyu inquired curiously.

''Well to explain it in simple terms he was salty about having another guy on the team. By having even one more male it automatically lowers his chances of getting laid. Add into the equation the fact that Shirou is pretty handsome, very kind even if a bit blunt at times, and can cook foods that can please even kings it will be a miracle if poor Saji can score with any of the girls.'' Taiga explained while going even deeper in the stories hidden contents.

''Oh I get it.'' Illya did a perfect fist bump. ''He was jealous of Onii-chan, kind like how those two guys… forgot their names, from the perverted trio get super jealous and pissed off when they see Issei with a pretty girl. Now that I think about it, Saji and Issei are rather similar, so it isn't farfetched that Saji would be jealous of Shirou. ''

''But didn't he act a little too arrogant in this chapter? More than he was the first time he was introduced in the canon story?'' Miyu inquired.

Taiga growled in anticipation. ''Seems like Ray has some plans for his background... which was never really revealed in canon now that I think about. Heck, almost every member of the Sitri team are background-less characters. Hope Ray can pull of some proper backstories for them.''

''He will have a lot of work to do that's for sure...'' Illya commented as she rolled her eyes.

''Anyways let's not forget that holidays are coming. So from all the cast of 'A fake hero', we all wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Let's see everyone again in 2017!'' Taiga roared!

''Stay tuned for the next chapter 'Stray hunt part I'.'' Illya and Miyu said in synch.

''Check it out!'' Taiga yelled.


Author notes:

Well that's all for today. I'm surprised I actually finished before New Year and Christmas, lucky me.

Let's get down to business now shall we.

For those of you wondering why in Zelretch's unholy name did i write an opening for this, well I just happen to be a fan of Shirou Fujimura's (that's the author's name) 'Devil Reborn: Redux', which I highly recommend (while i don't really enjoy OC insert stories, his is an exception. If you like good battle scenes, good comedy, tear jerking moments, and a MC that can kick ass then this is a story for you. The thing is he writes opening songs for his arcs which actually match well with the arc, and the songs he chooses are a good choice. So I decided to try it out once and see how it turns out. Why I chose the opening of UBW season 1? I think it is a perfect opening for how Shirou is right now.

If you are wondering why Saji is kind of an ass in this chapter... well he kinda was one in the beginning of canon. Don't get me wrong but he seemed a bit arrogant when he first met Issei, so I think I could work with that. About Shirou's pieces. I was considering the possibility of replacing Saji with Shirou, I mean look at his name Saji GenSHIROU, it could have been an interesting idea, but then again I would have had to give him the Vritra sg and it would raise more problems to me (plus I need a comedy victim). Anyways since canonically Sona still had 3 unused pawns I decided to use them. But then I thought, Shirou with Archer power in him being only a 3 pawns worth? Naw ain't gonna work. So I made one of those pawns a mutation piece. I mean seriously, Rias had a mutation bishop (something tells me good old Sirzechs had a hand in that) so why not give one to Sona as well (I think that Serafall could pull some strings and give her precious So-tan a mutation piece)

About the visions that Shirou has. As you can guess those are from the dream cycle, and if you are wondering why it was like that, it's because they don't occur in an exact order. If it was like that, Rin would have seen some of Archer's memories from the time in his youth early on the story, so my guess is that the dream cycle is actually random. So pieces of Archers memories (which are pretty messed up due to multiple reasons) will be appearing randomly in Shirou's dreams.

About the interaction between Shirou and Sella. Well this is how I view it: Even though they don't seem to be the best of friends in the Prisma verse, Shirou did grow up with her as his caretaker, so I would imagine that Shirou does view her like a big sister figure. So their little dispute was justified.

Also if you are wondering why Sella was feeling so down and depressed about what happened, think about it from this perspective. Her job is to take care of Shirou and Illya. She takes a great pride in her existence as an Einzbern homunculus, one of the highest grade of her kind. So for her to fail to protect Shirou, she felt like she failed the mission of her existence. So of course she would feel a lot of depression and suffer a small breakdown.

If you are wondering what's up with the costume Iri was wearing, google 'Einzbern Consultation Room' and you will see what I mean. The same for Liz weapon, just write Leysritt and check images.

Now onto other matters. Thank you all for the suggestions you made last chapter for noble phantasm ideas. There were some that i really found good and plan on using in future chapters, so keep the ideas flowing!


Let's answer some reviews:

- XxPokemonMasterxX: I also had an unusual thing for Sella and Shirou. They will have more interaction in this story, that's for sure, about full scale relationship however... it's a little too early to give my final verdict. Also, Shirou doesn't really have many choices at the moment so he has no choice than go along with the flow. Hahaha, yep, I'm one big bastard!

-Kuroshinobi 13: I can only say that he will appear partially, and it won't be any time soon.

- 98kazer: I don't see what you are apologizing for... I mean, that's the same thing that I thought when I posted the first chapter

- Sonicdude8: You and 80% of the people who read the chapter. Let's just say that Shirou will be giving Issei competition. I won't say anything more.

- InfinityMask: It will be revealed all in time. From a professional point of view Shirou is simply a reincarnated human whose demonic power is so weak that it can't even be sensed, so Shirou will be on team Sitri for now. Well at base most of the story will go from Shirou's perspective, but there will be times when it will change, but I doubt it will be from Rias. Not so stupid, there will be some new stuff in addition to the canon stuff.

- Swordalfgun: Could he be Shirou without weapons? Also from what I noticed Shirou's tracing is much faster than Gil's gate, so making him do it like him would be more of a downgrade. If you are thinking about Ea forget it, that thing is simply impossible to recreate. Also... you are right op asf, not gonna happen.

-T-B-R: I'm scared to ask how you came up with that idea.

- victorhliu121: While he may or may not be able to project divine constructs, it's a whole different matter of using them. Hear me out, while he could physically project them, can he enact their powers? I mean look at Ig-Alima, the weapon that Kalied Shirou projected. That thing is physically impossible to be used by a human since it's so damn huge! Also, there might be divine constructs that require divinity or a magical power from the age of gods, things which Shirou can't replicate. So even if I will decide to use any, I will need to be careful.

-Ash the Aura Guardian: While I won't go into details, Excalibur will affect Shirou in a different way from how it affected him in GDXD.

- Shadow of a Memory: It may be just my opinion or misinterpretation, but Shirou's mind is still in the manufacturing process. It took Archer more than ten years to fully develop it, and that's as he fought, used his projection to the limits, and suffered endlessly. It may exist in Shirou, but it has yet to be completed. Thanks a lot for the support.

- BloodWolf752: I won't go into details, but the card will be a central point in Shirou's life. Also about the ship... let's just say that this will give new options to shipping materials for Shirou, besides the already used ones.

- simple405: The dialogue was monotone because it was supposed to be monotone. I mean they are talking about how he basically got killed, got somewhat revived and now his soul is pretty much damned and he will be a slave for an uncertain amount of time. Plus Shirou went through the whole family drama thing, so I doubt he is in a good mood.

So then until next! See you all in 2017, I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year


Don't forget to review... no seriously review, I could use some constructive criticism.