A/N: Thanks to everyone who reviewed and thank you very much for the Tv tropes page for this story. And of course, thanks to Greatkingrat88 for his work on this chapter.

I apologize for the length of time behind this review, but I had never expected to conduct so much research into Japan's history especially into some characters.

This chapter is building up for what comes next, but I want to take some time to provide some character development for the current cast before I introduce more servants. At the same time the other parties in the singularity begin planning what to do about Lelouch, Ritsuka and Hakuno's group.

Now before we get into the chapter I got some anonymous reviews to address.

Just a nobody: I admit it wasn't my original decision to give Lelouch Ushiwakamaru, but I decided to roll with it, and there is another reason why which I didn't consider originally but you'll see in the coming chapters.

I agree, and while the subject of a harem might come up in discussion in story I can't see Lelouch forming one. I don't see any reason why to do it since I can't see how it would benefit the story. Furthermore I stand by my original position for Lelouch not to be paired with anyone until after the singularities are resolved, but during the seventh singularity some servants could have a chance to gain an advantage over other competitors after the world is restored to get their preverbal foot in the door.

As for Ritsuka and Hakuno I am open to them as far as pairings go and I am content to wait and see how events play out before I make my decision. But those pairings for Hakuno could happen if conditions are right. But for now its anyone's game.

Don't worry Melt and BB will appear later when the time is right.

Guest 1 (who wrote the review in Spanish): Thank you and like I said while Lelouch and Hakuno are one of many pairing combinations in this story. But a harem for Lelouch is doubtful at this point in time unless a very good argument can convince me and Greatkingrat88 to consider otherwise. Even then don't expect any pairings with Lelouch until at least after the seven singularities are resolved.

Guest 2: We'll see since I have been considering rewriting it.

Jay: Thank you I appreciate that, and yeah I am hoping to build Ritsuka into more of his own character with Shuten there to maybe shake things up a little.

Thanks I appreciate that since while Ritsuka was a little easier I was worried about Hakuno's backstory because I didn't want to just be faithful to her character, but do it in a way that would make sense for her to turn out as she did in the series. The same with Ritsuka too. Still I did enjoy composing their backstories.

Maybe so and it is sad, but…well let's just say you never want to play your best cards until later.

Thank you for that too and yeah I understand Ushiwakamaru's design is an issue for a number of people, but I do like her new stylish Psychedelic Wandering Tales outfit she gets.

Maybe, and that is a funny thought, I am still thinking about which events from the Summer events to involve, with definitely the one that happens in Hawaii for sure.

Chapter 9

The Third Party

"There, I've captured this territory," Genghis Khan said, planting another banner by the mine.

The placement of the banner triggered another blanket of fog, spreading throughout the surrounding area. As the fog vanished, more Mongolian soldiers came into existence from all around the Khan, raising their number to five hundred.

"So, what should we do with her?" Lelouch said, giving Shuten a wary glance.

"I've made a contract with her, and she's on our side now," Ritsuka said, feeling nervous under the scrutinizing expressions he was receiving.

"Can you be sure she'll be loyal?" Ushiwakamaru said, struggling with the urge to behead her.

"I promise to behave," Shuten said with a smile.

"Why do I not feel reassured?" Hakuno remarked.

Lelouch almost wanted to suggest Ritsuka use a command seal on her, but he held back. Somehow, he felt that wouldn't work in the long run. Depending on the wording Ritsuka used, Shuten could exploit a loophole in the order.

"If Ritsuka says she'll be a capable ally, then there isn't much we can do at this point," Emiya said.

"I am surprised you didn't object, considering her earlier attack on us," Hakuno replied.

"I know it's true when I say some of us don't trust her," Emiya answered. "However, since she made a contract with Ritsuka, her life is tied to his."

"Yes, I know," Shuten replied dismissively with a hand wave. "If he dies, I go poof."

"So that shouldn't be a problem, then," Hakuno said.

"I am sure Shuten will be a great ally," Ritsuka offered hopefully.

"Yes, I promise to be good," Shuten replied with a big, toothy smile.

Lelouch turned away from the conversation, more interested in the growing number of Mongolian soldiers. Three hundred more were coming into existence from mere smoke and willpower. Genghis Khan joined him as the new soldiers finished materializing, but the former prince was already deep in thought.

"Thinking about how the enemy will react?" said the Khan.

"Yes," Lelouch replied with a nod. "I doubt Nagao will take this defeat lying down. However, her ability to respond to this defeat is limited."

"You are correct," the Khan said with an approving nod. "If Nagao attempted to attack us, she knows Nobunaga would seize on the opportunity. Having to fight on two fronts would potentially be disastrous for her. Then again, she cannot ignore us indefinitely. Eventually, she must face us or face defeat."

"I know, which is why we need to build upon the momentum we have now. Not to mention," Lelouch said, glancing at Shuten, "we're going to need more Servants to gain an edge over both sides, I think. Given that we both know there are Noble Phantasms like Excalibur, capable of wiping out armies."

"If there was anyone among the enemy who would likely have such a Noble Phantasm, I am certain it would be Nobunaga," the Khan retorted.

"I concur," Lelouch said. As they spoke, Ushiwakamaru joined them.

"We should return to the others back at Minamiyoshino Village. We have technically eliminated the oni as agreed. It's an opportunity to add more troops," Ushiwakamaru suggested.

"I agree. Hopefully we can make it back before nightfall?" Lelouch said, noticing something strange about the Khan's expression. He seemed to be on alert.

"Why before nightfall?" Ushiwakamaru said. The sun was beginning to set, leaving them a few hours before dark.

"Because I feel we shouldn't be out at night right now," Genghis Khan replied, feeling someone or something was watching them.

"Right. Oh yeah," Ushiwakamaru said, "Master, I have slain an enemy servant, so I humbly ask for a reward."

"What kind of reward?"

"Head pats," Ushiwakamaru replied much to Lelouch's confusion and Genghis Khan's.

"Uh, sure…" Lelouch replied as Ushiwakamaru looked at him with pleading eyes. Hesitantly, Lelouch patted her head, the servant beaming at him as he did.

The following morning, word of Nagao's forced retreat had reached Nobunaga's ears thanks to the spies she had within Kyoto. Even through Nagao had only taken a small army consisting of inexperienced recruits to wipe out the oni in the south, the fact the defeat was so swift and brutal added to the surprise that unknown soldiers were involved.

Presently Nobunaga was in the library of the castle, trying to discover any clues to the identity of the unknown soldiers that had forced Nagao back.

Their tactics are like nothing you'd see in Japan. Who makes an army of horse archers? That hasn't happened for over two hundred years, and they were defeated both times. Are they foreigners? Nobunaga thought, tossing another book aside in frustration. Rising from the chair she had been sitting in, she made her way out of the library.

A third party with an army is going to complicate things, Nobunaga thought.

She weighed her options. Ignoring this new force would be dangerous, but she couldn't move against them without the risk of Nagao seizing on the chance to attack her from behind. She knew the same problem applied to Nagao herself, who was no doubt displeased with such a heavy loss, but waiting and allowing this new problem gain strength could invite disaster.

Maybe if I can somehow push Nagao into going on the offensive against them, it could give me a chance to eliminate both sides.

Nagao was prideful, delusional in her belief that she was the Avatar of a War God. If pushed enough, she would move against this new enemy. The crux of the matter was what sort of push you would have to give to prompt Nagao to move.

Nagao doesn't like being on the defensive, and she is doing so only reluctantly after her recent losses. I'll need something big to drive her to action against this new group, Nobunaga thought.

"My lord," a voice said, interrupting her musings.

Approaching Nobunaga was a towering man dressed in samurai armor, with long red hair tied into a ponytail. His yellow eyes shimmered with barely concealed bloodlust and a desire for battle, his loyalty to his lord barely keeping it in check.

"I swear, you are radiating more bloodlust than yesterday," Nobunaga complimented with a smile.

"Apologies, my lord, but I just want to cut down those bastards hiding in Kyoto," Mori Nagayoshi said with a smile.

"Your time will come, but we need to do something about these new enemies first."

"The ones who managed to send Nagao running?" Mori asked. Nobunaga nodded.

"I need to draw them and Nagao into battle with each other. Then I'll have an opportunity to eliminate them both."

"It's bold and risky," Mori said, before adding. "I like it."

"Yes, but we'll need something or someone to draw Nagao out for the plan to work."

"Then send me out, my lord. I can cause some havoc."

Nobunaga contemplated the decision for a moment. Then, she nodded.

"Alright. Go out near Kyoto and cause some havoc. See if you can't draw that other group closer to Kyoto for a confrontation Nagao can't ignore."

The plan was very risky, especially with Mori spearheading in it. In life, Mori Nagayoshi had been the older brother of Nobunaga's closest page, a fearsome spearman and general for his military accomplishments. As the Lord of the Musashi Province, combined with his ruthlessness on the battlefield, it had earned him the title of the Demon Musashi. Besides his ruthlessness he was short-tempered and very reckless in battle, the latter of which had led to his downfall by a stray bullet. Being summoned as a powerful Berserker seemed to amplify some of these traits, which made him an even more dangerous foe. Yet, his recklessness was a point of concern for Nobunaga.

It's very risky sending him out, but if this plan works the payoff could be worth the risk, she thought.

"Take a small band of troops and cause havoc in the south near Kyoto. Do what you must to draw both of our enemies into a conflict with one another," Nobunaga ordered.

"At once, my lord," Mori said, eager to head out.

Back at Minamiyoshino Village, Lelouch was lounging around outside a building, while Genghis Khan was inside with Ryoma, meeting with the village leaders. Lelouch was leaning against the wall of the inn alone with his thoughts when he heard someone approach him.

"Lord Lelouch," Ushiwakamaru said, approaching him with both hands behind her back.

"What is it, Ushiwakamaru?"

"I wanted to ask you something."

"Go ahead."

"I wanted to ask if I could become your servant, permanently. I saw what Ritsuka did for that oni. So… could you do the same?"

Lelouch was a little surprised by the request. Having a second servant with a number of Noble Phantasms, and an experienced general to boot would be useful, though.

"I don't see why not, but I should probably talk to the Khagan first. Otherwise, I would be happy to," Lelouch said, much to Ushiwakamaru's delight.

"Wonderful! But since he'll be busy for a bit, why don't we play?"

"Play?" Lelouch said with a perplexed look.

"Yes," Ushiwakamaru said nodding. "My teacher taught me work and play went hand in hand, so let us train and play."

"…okay," Lelouch said.

Despite his confusion and questioning of Ushiwakamaru's work-and-play method, he decided to see what would happen. After all, Ushiwakamaru was remembered as one of Japan's greatest generals, so maybe the training method she was inviting him to take part in could be useful.

"Follow me," Ushiwakamaru said, taking Lelouch's hand to have him follow her.

Around the same time, Ritsuka and Mash were keeping a close eye on Shuten. Thankfully, she was content to lounge around in one of the inn's rooms. How the oni had managed to obtain a seemingly endless amount of wine perplexed the pair.

"Did you two want to join me?" Shuten asked, downing another cup of wine.

"Master and I are not of legal drinking age," Mash protested.

Shuten merely waved her hand dismissively. "Suit yourselves. That means more for me."

Ritsuka sighed. Although Shuten had kept to herself ever since they returned, having switched to spirit form to avoid being seen by the townspeople, the young man was at a loss on how to handle her. So far, she appeared to be compliant, but Ritsuka wondered if Shuten would really help them in the battles ahead.

Suddenly a beep from the wrist device prompted Ritsuka to step out of the room to accept a call from Roman. Mash followed behind him.

"I hope I didn't catch you at a bad time, Ritsuka," Roman asked, as his avatar materialized on the holo device.

"Not at all."

"I take it you found information on that assassin-class servant senpai saw," Mash inquired, earning a nod from Roman.

"Yes, I have, Okada Izo was an infamous manslayer during the time of the Bakumatsu period. Originally he taught himself to wield a blade, but he was later able to receive proper instruction in swordplay under different masters, learning different teachings and styles," Roman explained.

"So, what happened?" Mash asked.

"Some details are sketchy, but Izo was a member of Tosa Kinnoto, an Imperialist party, a loyalist clique originating from the town of Tosa. It was also Ryoma's hometown," Roman revealed.

"So Izo and Ryoma knew one another back then? Maybe they were old friends?" Ritsuka suggested. Roman shrugged.

"I can't say for sure, but the two did drift apart due to ideological differences between them. Originally Ryoma was a supporter for the overthrowing of the Tokugawa shogunate, but part of a more conversative political faction. However, he left the Tosa Kinnoto led by one of his friends, when he likely disagreed with their methods of assassinations against those who not only supported the Tokugawa shogunate. He wanted Japan to modernize in the wake of Britannia's arrival. The forced signing of the Convention of Kanagawa that forced open Japan's ports to trade with Britannia planted the seeds of the Tokugawa Shogunate's downfall. Ryoma believed instead of worrying for their own town, he should to do more for Japan as a whole," Roman explained.

"I can't imagine Okada took that well," Ritsuka said.

"Yes. No-one was allowed to leave the Tosa Kinnoto under pain of death, but Ryoma escaped while one of his sisters committed suicide on his behalf."

"How terrible," Mash remarked in shock.

"Ryoma's views changed when he met Katsu Kaishū, a high-ranking official in the Tokugawa shogunate and a supporter of modernization. Ryoma intended to assassinate him, but instead Katsu told Ryoma of the necessity of a long-term plan to increase Japan's military strength in the face of Britannia's influence. After that, Ryoma became Katsu's assistant and protégé, whose work as a mediator would lay the groundwork for the Meiji Restoration."

"What happened between Okada and Ryoma?" Ritsuka asked.

"Okada and rest of the Tosa Kinnoto, save for their leader, were captured following the assassination of Yoshida Tōyō, the regent of Tosa. Izo confessed to his actions under severe torture before he was executed days later, with his head put on public display. I cannot say for sure, but it was rumored that Ryoma, a former member of the group, sold them out."

"I see. So that is why Okada hates Ryoma so much," Mash said, finally understanding Okada's anger.

"There is nothing confirming whether Ryoma was involved or not, but I think he feels partly responsible," Roman said.

"I see. So probably the next time if we run into Izo, he'll be targeting Ryoma," Ritsuka said, placing one hand on his chin.

"He is an assassin-class, so he could be nearby for all we know," Mash said, seeming concerned.

"So are a number of other servants. Izo is a skilled manslayer. Even if he wants revenge on Ryoma, he'll know better than to attack while he is surrounded by so many allies," Roman pointed out.

"That means he'll just wait until the rest are in battle before making a move," Ritsuka asked.

"Most likely since it would give him the best opportunity," Roman said in agreement.

Downstairs Hakuno was sitting at a table, with Emiya sitting close by.

"If we encounter anymore servants, what class might be good, should I consider recruiting one?" she asked. Emiya looked at her with a questioning expression for a moment.

"I guess seeing Ritsuka get a second servant has given you ideas?"

"Well, this is the first singularity and after this, we'll have six more to do. Who knows what kind of servants we will face? I was just wondering."

"You are right to weigh your options," Emiya said with an approving nod. "This is far from a normal Holy Grail War, and at this point we don't know who the masterminds behind the incineration Earth are like. Logically it would make sense to bolster our ranks with more servants, especially those with different skill sets and capabilities."

"I admit I didn't even think we could have more than one servant," Hakuno said, resting her head on one of her hands propped up on the table. "Would it even be possible for a master in your standard Holy Grail War to have more than one servant?"

"Yes, but even an experienced magus providing energy for more than one servant is extremely difficult, especially if that servant is powerful and requires a high amount of magical energy to function. Granted, there are ways to compensate for that."

"How so?"

"Well, you could tap into a leyline, like the Khan did with his banners. Requires refueling at times, which would make you vulnerable at the point of refuel, but it's a viable alternative all the same."

"What are the other ways, out of curiosity?"

"One way is to form a connection with an external magical energy source. People with magical powers could potentially support a master. You could also kill people and consume their souls, but aside from it being a horrendous thing to do, any halfway heroic or noble spirit would refuse. Then there's the… final method."

He stopped, seeming hesitant.

"Well?" Hakuno demanded.

Emiya sighed.

"There is one more method that could be used if the master has insufficient magical energy to supply their servant. I can't imagine it working for more than one. It's… complicated. Actually no, it's very simple, it's just…"

"What?"

"Well, remember you asked for it," Emiya grunted, "if the master is male and the servant female, or vice versa, you could restore magical energy through… sexual intercourse."

Hakuno's cheeks reddened.

"You're kidding."

"Nope," said Emiya, shrugging awkwardly, "I don't know why, but a more… intimate connection seems to stimulate the growth of magical power."

"So basically, you're saying sex with your servant is the way to go if you got none of the other methods available?" Hakuno asked, bewildered. Emiya nodded. "That sounds like something someone would put into an eroge game as an excuse to have sex with historical figures."

"I apologize if this revelation has made you uncomfortable," Emiya said with a chuckle.

"No, it's probably best I know about it now instead of finding out later, or something. After all, as a master I should be aware of everything about servants, including how to maintain them," Hakuno said as she buried her face in her hands. "But knowing that, I don't blame you for hesitating."

"I am grateful you understand."

"But," Hakuno began as she lifted her face from her hands. "I am curious. Have there been any cases of a Heroic Spirit forming a romantic relationship with their master?"

"I don't know for sure how often it happens, but I have known a few cases of it when I was alive. One example was a Caster-class servant I encountered once. How familiar are you with the tale of Medea of Greek mythology?" Emiya asked. Hakuno shook her head.

"To summarize as much as I can, Medea was a key figure in the myth of Jason and the Argonauts. She was the daughter of King Aeëtes of Colchis, a sorceress who bewitched by the Goddess Aphrodite to love Jason so she could aid him."

"Why would a Goddess do that?"

"According to what I know, Aphrodite supported Jason's quest for the Golden Fleece, created from the winged ram, Chrysomallos, which became a symbol of authority and kingship. Jason needed the fleece to claim his rightful inheritance from King Pelias, who usurped of his father's country Iolcos. King Pelias told him he could claim his proper place if he traveled to Colchis and claimed the fleece. It was a difficult if not impossible task, but Jason accepted."

"So I take it the King of Colchis wouldn't hand it over?"

"Correct, so Aphrodite intervened and made Medea fall in love with a complete stranger. Thanks to her help, Jason was able to claim the fleece. But her father pursued them, driving Medea to kill her own brother and scatter his remains across the sea. Her father would stop to recover him, which allowed Jason and the Argonauts to escape."

Hakuno was horrified. A girl had been bewitched into doing something so terrible?

"I am afraid Medea's tragic tale doesn't end there. After escaping and returning to Jason's country, King Pelias refused to honor their agreement. In fact, King Pelias tried to kill Jason three times, forcing Medea to protect him. She offered an idea to assassinate King Pelias, allowing Jason to claim his rightful place as king."

"I get the feeling people were not happy with that?" Hakuno said, eyeing Emiya suspiciously.

Emiya nodded, "Yes, and as you guessed, no one was pleased Jason had claimed the throne by deceit. His own Argonauts turned on him, as did the rest of Iolcos, forcing Medea and Jason to flee. The pair escaped to Corinth, where the king welcomed them. Unfortunately, the king liked Jason so much he offered his own daughter to him. He accepted, casting Medea aside and exiling her. Furious and betrayed, Medea returned during Jason's wedding, killing everyone present, sparing only Jason. She spent the rest of her days as a witch."

"That's extreme, but I don't think I could blame her for what happened."

"I can't imagine Medea was in a sane state of mind given how much a Goddess had cursed her into loving Jason so much she would betray her country and murder her own brother for him."

"But she became a Heroic Spirit and she was summoned, right?"

"Right, and I don't know the details behind her original master, but she loathed him. The man was a coward who wanted to wait out the war until most of the masters and servants killed one another. After tricking him into using up his command seals and killing him, Medea was barely able to sustain herself," Emiya said as Hakuno listened, which he took as a sign to keep going.

"Yet, on the verge of disappearing, a former assassin turned school teacher came upon her. Without any hesitation he helped Medea, forming a new contract, and tending to her recovery. For Medea, this was the first act of genuine kindness anyone had given her. They fell in love, so instead of just winning the Holy Grail, Medea wanted to extend her time with her new love. I imagine if she had won the Holy Grail, she would've used it to wish to become human so she could live a full life with him."

"I guess she didn't win."

"No, although she came close. She died protecting her master with her own body. Sadly, her master didn't survive either."

"That's a depressing ending. I think she deserved better."

"I agree, although her methods to go about sustaining herself I could not agree with."

"What do you mean?"

"Medea's master was a normal human. He wasn't able to provide all of the magical energy she needed. Not even with the pair- I assume- being intimately involved with one another. So she used her powers to drain energy from the people living in the city of Fuyuki. She was careful to avoid killing them, but a lot of people ended up in the hospital. I think killing them would've drawn too much unwanted attention, but she had planned to cause a city-wide disaster to both empower the Holy Grail and herself with the magic needed to get her wish."

"She would go that far?" Hakuno said, surprised.

"Sometimes people will do terrible things for their own happy ending, but I guess her story does provide a good example on the importance of providing for your servants."

"Right, because one method may not provide as much energy as required."

"Exactly. But thankfully, it seems Chaldea's support systems will be able to take care of that, especially since out of the forty masters meant to take part, only three of you are active."

"Basically, you're saying there is a lot more magical energy to go around?"

"Yes. And to get our original conversation back on track, without knowing in advance what other allied servants we could find, I feel my ability to suggest candidates is limited. Not including those we have encountered already."

"This is Japan, so there are probably a lot of famous ninjas who have become Heroic Spirits."

"Right, which means we could have a lot of potential candidates for an assassin class servant. Could be useful for recon and catching our foes by surprise."

"True. Would obtaining a Caster be useful?"

"Depending on their skills and abilities, I suppose. I can't say I am overly familiar with caster-class servants; I hadn't encountered too many during my life."

"Medea was probably the only Caster-class servant you encountered."

Emiya nodded, "Yes, she was. Generally, Caster-class servants has two class abilities. Item Creation, and Territory Creation. For example, Medea possessed a very high Item Creation rank, so her skills allowed her to create potent magical objects such as charms, potions and more. Territory Creation allows a Caster-class servant to create a workshop that allows them to gather magical energy and give themselves a homefield advantage to enhance their abilities. Anything else would depend on the servant."

"So other casters could be capable of that?"

"It is a general ability they possess yes, but anything else would be dependent on the Heroic Spirit."

"Right, so a Caster or an Assassin-class servant would be good choices to consider then?"

"Well, Ryoma and Benkei wouldn't be bad choices. Tamamo Cat… I haven't seen her in battle, so I don't know what she can do besides cooking." Emiya said. A certain Berserker heard her name mentioned, and soon poked her head into the room from the kitchen.

"This cat can just fight just fine, thank you very much," Tamamo Cat pouted, waving a large spoon in one hand. "I'll show you what I can do next time, and prove this cat isn't just capable of good food. I am a true iron chef who can fight, cook and more. I am an all-in-one special you rarely see in a servant!"

"Right. I am sorry, I didn't mean to offend," Emiya said.

"You better be, or no food for you!" Tamamo said before returning to the kitchen.

"If nothing else, having someone else capable of cooking would be a good thing back in Chaldea."

"Too true," Emiya said in agreement since everyone back at Chaldea would have to put up with C.C.'s pizza dishes until he returns.

"So, this is your idea of training?" Lelouch asked as he leaned against a tree, exhausted.

"Uh-huh," Ushiwakamaru said with a nod. "Still, I am disappointed, master. You aren't very fast."

"Well, you're a Heroic Spirit who can outpace most people," Lelouch said. "Besides my endurance isn't very good."

"I guess that means we need to do something about that."

The game or training Ushiwakamaru had suggested was Onigokko, or Tag, which left Lelouch running from Ushiwakamaru. His poor endurance aside, he couldn't get far before being tagged. That same endurance problem also made it near impossible for him to catch Ushiwakamaru.

"So, this is where you two have been?"

Ushiwakamaru and Lelouch turned to see Genghis Khan approach them with a mildly annoyed expression on his face.

"Sorry, Khagan. Ushiwakamaru wanted to take me aside for training," Lelouch said, struggling to recover.

"Master, I would have expected better of you than to wander to the outskirts of the village like this," Genghis Khan said sternly.

"I didn't know what kind of training Ushiwakamaru had in mind when she brought me here."

"I told him play itself was training, just as my teacher taught me?" said Ushiwakamaru.

"Play is training?" Genghis Khan asked, raising an eyebrow. "I suppose the training methods are unusual, but if the results are good…"

"Why does everyone think that?" Ushiwakamaru asked, titling her head to one side in confusion.

"Your master was Kiichi Hougen, the onmyouji from Kurama Temple, wasn't he?" Lelouch inquired leaning his back against a tree.

"Yes, she was a very good teacher, but very scary at times," Ushiwakamaru said. Lelouch and the Khan both raised an eyebrow; they hadn't realized Hougen wasn't male.

"Kiichi Hougen was a woman?" Lelouch inquired.

"Technically as a tengu she could shapeshift into whatever she wanted, even a man. However, she seemed to prefer having a woman's body," Ushiwakamaru said, a worried expression appearing on her face. "I really hope we don't run into her as a Heroic Spirit."

"Why is that?" Lelouch inquired.

"Because I seduced her daughter to read their Six Secret Arts of War," Ushiwakamaru admitted with an embarrassed look upon her face.

"The knowledge within must have been quite something to have gone that far," Genghis Khan said.

"Yes, it was. That, combined with everything my sensei taught me, helped me become the warrior I am today. Yet if my teacher and I ever met, I know I'd be punished for it."

"I can't say that isn't a possibility," Lelouch said. Realizing her guard was down, he placed a hand on Ushiwakamaru's shoulder. "By the way… tag, you're it."

"MASTER," Ushiwakamaru said as her face turned red from embarrassment. "That wasn't fair!"

"Like I am going to catch someone as speedy as you with your guard up," Lelouch remarked with a grin.

"Your victory shall be short lived!" Ushiwakamaru pouted, but lucky for Lelouch his servant intervened before things could escalate.

"I do agree Lelouch's endurance will need work. Even as he spent time searching the countryside the journey seemed to wear you down," Genghis Khan said, taking in Lelouch's exhausted state.

"It's going to take time to fix that," Ushiwakamaru said as she folded her arms.

"I concur," said the Khan.

"Anyway," Lelouch began, wanting to steer the conversation away about his poor endurance, "I was going to form a permanent contract with Ushiwakamaru, and I thought I should ask if you would take issue with that?"

"Having one of Japan's greatest generals would be a boon for us. I am touched that you waited to consult me on the matter, but it was hardly necessary."

"Maybe so, but I thought it would be best."

"I shall serve Lelouch with all I have. I do have a lot of Noble Phantasms, if that helps." Said Ushiwakamaru.

"How many?" The Khan inquired, putting one hand on his chin.

"Six," Ushiwakamaru said, before she began explaining each of them to Lelouch and Genghis.

Ritsuka was sitting in his room alone, deep in thought. Mash had went to see if Tamamo needed help in the kitchen. However, his thoughts were interrupted by Shuten stepping into the room with a cup and wine bottle in hand.

"Are you sure you wouldn't be interested in trying some wine?"

"No thank you. I am a little young for that."

"That is a pity, but then again, more for me. I recall a time when people your age would've been drinking sake. How times must've changed in your era, huh?" Shuten remarked, stepping closer to Ritsuka.

"If you don't mind me asking, what else did you do besides drink wine?"

"Well, I would occasionally go out and eat people who caught my eye. Maybe steal some wine or something nice if the mood struck me. Of course, I would just stay and drink wine and feast with Ibaraki. All I cared for doing was living for the moment," Shuten replied, downing another cup of wine.

"That's it?"

"You expected more? I suppose that doesn't make much of a good tale for conversation," Shuten admitted before an idea came to mind. "Tell me, have you heard of Sakata Kintoki?"

"Sakata Kintoki, as in one of the Four Heavenly Kings of Minamoto no Yorimitsu?"

"Yes, that's him. One of the strongest heroes of his era, rivaled only by that cow Yorimitsu," Shuten said resentfully. "Such a rowdy and righteous fellow, with had a dragon thunder god for a father and a man-eating witch for a mother."

"That's quite the parentage," Ritsuka admitted, wondering how such a relationship worked out.

"Yes, but after his parents died, he was taken in by the cow to be raised into being both a warrior and retainer for her."

The cow… why does she call Minamoto no Yoritmitsu a cow?

"I assume you two would meet right?" Ritsuka asked knowing the Heavenly Kings were involved in Shuten's demise.

"Yes, and the poor boy would get so flustered whenever we encountered one another. Still, I wish we could've done more than simply fight one another. It was fun, but it got old." Shuten said with a sigh. "Of course, that cow had to always get in the way. Why, she even had the nerve to give me poisoned wine. I knew it was poisoned, but I couldn't resist it because it was wine."

"Why did you drink it if it was poisoned?"

"Because a true oni would never refuse wine in front of her," Shuten replied. "Even after they cut my head off, I at least got the last word in."

"And now you are here," Ritsuka said as he glanced down. "By the way, nice try."

Using the story as a diversion Shuten had been preparing a cup of wine.

"Oh, you are an observant one."

"You seem like the type who would cast stones into a lake to see what kind of ripples you can make."

"I am not sure if that is accurate. But fair, I suppose. I love, if nothing else, to shake things up to make things more interesting."

"Senpai, is everything alright?" Mash asked, walking into the doorway of Ritsuka's room. She was eyeing Shuten suspiciously.

"Don't tell me she is another jealous type, like that cow?" said Shuten.

"Jealous? Me, no," Mash denied quickly. "But I worry about you trying to make senpai drink a beverage he is not of proper age to drink. As his servant, I will protect him."

"Oh, you are such a wet blanket. You need to learn to live a little."

I guess I'll need to be on guard around Shuten, Ritsuka thought as he watched Shuten and Mash argue.

Meanwhile Lelouch extended his hand as he made his contact to Ushiwakamaru. His command seals glowed, as a permanent contact had now been established. Once it was over, Ushiwakamaru looked pleased.

"Thank you, Lord Lelouch. I shall faithfully serve you," Ushiwakamaru said, eagerly shaking Lelouch's hand.

"Of course, but… mind releasing my hand?" Lelouch said. Her grip was like steel.

"Come on ,Ushiwakamaru. Let's talk more about the plan we've devised," Genghis Khan said, intervening to save Lelouch from the overjoyed Heroic Spirit.

"Of course," Ushiwakamaru said, walking with Genghis Khan to go over details on a plan Lelouch had suggested. Lelouch had been struck with inspiration upon hearing the details about Ushiwakamaru's Noble Phantasm, which, if coupled with the right execution, could give them the break they needed in dealing with Nobunaga and Kagetora.

The plan wasn't their first option, and it had some holes they needed to address, but it was something that could tip the scales in their favor. As Lelouch watched the Khan and Ushiwakamaru talk, Benkei approached the young man from behind.

"I want to thank you, Lelouch. Because of you, I can see Lord Ushiwakamaru smiling more often." Said the monk.

"What do you mean? She wasn't like this before?" Lelouch asked, looking over his shoulder at Benkei.

Benkei seemed nostalgic for a moment.

"When she was young, she did. But as she got older, she stopped smiling. Lord Ushiwakamaru became a cold-blooded killer through and through. Besides me and her brother, she treated her men as expendable pawns, and became increasingly brutal in her later years."

"I see. Maybe she manifested at that age intentionally?"

Benkei seemed uncertain.

"Maybe, but it might have been a subconscious desire to manifest at an age of a time that was brighter for her. Still, seeing what she became as an adult and the tragic end of her life, I am deeply grateful you have given her more of a reason to smile again. In return, I'll aid you all as best I can."

"Thank you. I appreciate that." Lelouch said before he returned to contemplating the plan he had proposed.

Still, for my plan to work, we'll need a way to conceal our forces from the enemy, and it would have to blanket the whole battlefield.

Following his meeting with the village leaders, and Genghis Khan planting his banner, more Mongolian soldiers materialized. Following their agreement to allow the Banner's placement, a majority would stay and defend the village while the rest would travel with them and the other Heroic Spirits in the village north to Kyoto and Osaka.

With his work done, Ryoma and Oryou returned to the inn to pass along the news. However, upon arriving, they found Emiya and Hakuno talking in the dining hall.

"I guess not everyone is here?" Ryoma said.

"No, I think Mash, Shuten and Ritsuka are upstairs. Lelouch is around, but I don't know where," Hakuno answered.

"I see. Well, the good news is the village leaders agreed to our proposal. Genghis Khan has planted his banner and from now on a detachment of Mongolian Soldiers will protect the village."

"That's good. So we'll be heading north soon?" Emiya inquired, folding both arms over his chest.

"Yes, but it's still a question of how we'll deal with Nobunaga and Kagetora's forces. Even if we amass a larger army than them, we're still outnumbered in terms of Heroic Spirits between them." Ryoma pointed out, souring the mood a bit.

"And not knowing who some of these Heroic Spirits are complicates things, right?" Hakuno said, to which Ryoma nodded.

"We know someone you know is among the enemy Heroic Spirits at least," Emiya added.

"I would suggest not bringing up that homicidal nutjob," Oryou said. Emiya gave her an annoyed look.

"Come on, Oryou, Izo wasn't all bad." Ryoma said, lightly scolding his companion.

"Face it Ryoma, that battle crazy manslayer has it out for you even though you did nothing wrong."

"True, but I doubt that argument will work with Izo," Ryoma said, looking dejected.

"What happened between you two, if you don't mind me asking?" Hakuno asked.

Ryoma hesitated for a moment.

"Izo and I go way back. We grew up in the same town together, but our lives took different directions. I would leave to study in Edo after completing my schooling, while Izo focused solely on becoming a swordsman. In fact, I was studying in Edo when Britannia arrived with their fleet off the coast, forcing Japan to sign the Convention of Kanagawa, ending Japan's isolationist policy. However, many in Japan were furious with Abe Masahiro, the regent who signed the convention without consent of the emperor, and the shogun Tokugawa Iesada was too young and sick to lead," Ryoma explained.

"That is what sparked the uprisings to see the emperor restored to power and the removal of the Tokugawa Shogunate?" Hakuno asked. Ryoma nodded.

"That's right. Many in Japan saw it as a sign of weakness, and felt the Shogun was unfit to carry out the will of the Imperial Court and the Emperor, which had been ignored. I was among those who agreed with them, so I was part of a more conversative party, formed in my hometown."

"If I recall correctly you didn't stay with them along," Hakuno pointed out.

"That's right. Someone knows their history," Ryoma commented with a smile. "I disagreed with the group who only wanted to revolutionize Tosa, but not the rest of Japan. I felt we couldn't be concerned with only our region, so I left Tosa and struck out on my own."

"That couldn't have been an easy decision," Hakuno said. Leaving one's clan without permission meant a death sentence.

"No, it wasn't," Ryoma said sadly. "During my time I had considered assassinating a high-ranking official in the Tokugawa shogunate who was a supporter modernization. Instead, he convinced me to think towards long-term planning for Japan's future, sharing with me books about Britannia and its rivals. He showed me that Japan needed to modernize to survive in an ever advancing world. I even recognized Japan could've been seized by Britannia, but they couldn't commit the men required because of a mixture of internal problems within the homeland."

"So after studying those books, you were inspired to propose Japan adopt a more democratic government and the creation of a parliament?"

"Yes, although I sadly didn't live long enough to see it become a reality."

Ryoma silently recalled his death. Oryou seemed saddened, more disappointed in herself. Seeing this, Hakuno decided to change the subject.

"If I may ask, how did you meet Oryou?" Hakuno said curious about Ryoma's companion.

"Well, during my travels, I actually found Oryou imprisoned by a mystical spear. I figured the situation must've been terrible, so I just removed it. Ever since then, she followed me around," Ryoma replied, shrugging.

"She was what?" Emiya asked confused by this revelation.

"Oryou was imprisoned by a mystic spear. I removed it."

"I had thought about trying to trick Ryoma into freeing me. I would've eaten him afterwards. Yet to my surprise, he released me without me asking," Oryou said.

"Uh, you're dodging the question. Why were you imprisoned?" Hakuno said.

"Well… Oryou is a dragon?"

"HUH?" Emiya and Hakuno exclaimed in shock.

"I look human now, but my real form is much bigger," Oryou bragged.

"A dragon, huh," Hakuno said. She certainly hadn't expected that.

"I guess that explains the Rider-class designation," Emiya added.

"You're basically a Were-dragon then?" Hakuno asked. Oryou nodded in response.

"That's quite the tale," Emiya commented.

"Indeed, but you guys might see Oryou's true form before this is over," Ryoma remarked.

A/N: Well that is done with everyone ready to begin heading north to begin preparing for attacking Osaka and Kyoto. But how could they win and what trick does Lelouch has up his sleeve thanks to Ushiwakamaru, however he's going to need something to blanket the battlefield with a heavy fog as key to his plan.

Also I have put up a new poll on my profile to narrow down servants likely to appear in the next singularity. This just narrows it down just to make debating which servants should join Lelouch's group without having to go over a dozen servants. Also, I'll have one for Hakuno next for the same reason to make discussion regarding servants and who they go to between me and Greatkingrat88 much easier.

This chapter might not have been a battle heavy chapter, but just an interlude for exploring the characters more before introducing new ones at the recommendation of my co-writer.

Who will appear next chapter as the group heads north?

As a final note I'll have a new reboot of my Code Geass and Kingdom Hearts crossover coming in the next days with two chapters pre-made and a third on the way. Another story Greatkingrat88 has also been helping me with.

The same with a Code Geass story he and I have been co-writing with three chapters pre-made, which I might post once I pre-make at least more than five chapters.

See you guys next chapter and thank you in advance for your reviews, feedback, favorites and follows.