A Hedgehog Of Chaldea

Camelot (Part 3)


*Back At The West Village*

Eventually, Sonic, Mash, Cursed Arm, Hundred Personas, Sanzang, Touta, and Serenity return to the West Village, where Arash and Bedivere are waiting.

"Hey there, Sonic! I heard everything about what happened! You did great back there! Hey Sir Bedivere, come out behind that house. We need to give everyone who fought hard!" Arash said

"I understand, but I feel so pathetic. Sorry, you have to see me in such a state, Sonic. Please forgive me." Bedivere said

"Hey, don't take it personally, pal. I understand. Even heroes need rest as well, right?" Sonic replied

"So, those two are the new additions to the team, huh?" Arash said

"I'm Xuanzang Sanzang! Here for the protection of Buddha!" Sanzang introducing herself

"I am Tawara Touta. As you can see, I'm a passerby who somehow got caught up in this. I heard all about the village on the way here from Sonic. But before we start anything, Travel on Mt. Mikami to exterminate some evil bugs. You can keep scooping from it, but its fortunes never run dry. Seven or eight rounds of mountain ain't enough. If you're about to eat, make many rounds. Here we go! Anti-Feast Noble Phantasm. Shower of Tasty Rice! Let it rain, let it rain!"

Suddenly, food began to fall all around the village. The group was shocked by the sudden downpour of food.

"Wh-What is this downpour!? Grains!? Food!? Could this be food!?" Hundred Personas shock

"Certainly is!" Sonic replied

"Wow, what an amazing Archer! We have the greatest helper here!" Arash amazed

"This is why Touta and I met!"


*Night Time*

"AH-TATATATATATATATA! HYA!"

"Whoaaaaaaaaa!"

"Hundred Palms Buddha Rice Balls, we'll keep them coming!"

"*Watching At A Distances On Top Of A Building Roof* Glad that the kids are enjoying Sanzang's amazing skills when it comes to cooking," Sonic said

"What's going on over there, Sonic?" Romani asks

"Oh nothing, just a little party is starting at the village here. I rather let everyone else have fun wh just look at the night sky. Besides, I can hear some people having the time of their lives here." Sonic replied,

"Jeez, Lord Arash, you finished that bottle in just a second!" Touta said,

"Well, I'm more impressed you finished that finish in an s well!" Arash replied

"Okay, next to the stuffing! I may not be able to eat meat, but it'll be better for the kids to enjoy! Please take out the guts and stuff them with rice! I taught this recipe to Bajie before! Touta is Wukong, Arash is Bajie... Now I need someone to be Wujing!" Sanzang said

"*Hearing An Argument From Arash And Touta Soon After* Yep, everyone is having the time of their lives," Sonic said

"Sonic, what are you doing here? I thought you were at the feast with the others?" Cursed Arm asks

"Meh, I prefer to let the others have fun while I rest on my own here," Sonic replied

"Are you not a party-type person? You are the one who made all of this happen. Why don't you celebrate just a little as well?" Cursed Arm said

"As I said before, a Hedgehog like me doesn't need to be rewarded for something I've been doing my entire life. Sure many have offered me a reward for saving them, but I refuse every time because that's the least of my concern." Sonic replied

"Interesting. If I may ask, what is something that you wish you want to be rewarded with for your incredible efforts?" Cursed Arm asks

"Not wish, my dear friend. Will happen, and that is to save this world from destruction. Seeing innocent people smile and enjoy life without trouble is the greatest reward a Hedgehog like me can ask for. That is the one reward that is soon upon me." Sonic replied

"Heh, you are something, aren't you, Sonic? I wish I had the encouragement and skills you have right now, Sonic."

"What do you mean exactly?" Sonic said

"Out of all the Old Men of the Mountain. I was the most ordinary. Don't get me wrong. I was talented as pretty much anything. Expect I lacked what you had, an actual talent. Each Old Men of the Mountain had a unique skill. And then there's me. I guess I was desperate because I was young, or actually because I was alive. I wanted to earn my place in history as a great, remarkable man. And to achieve that, I chose to sacrifice my own body. My face, my people, my love. I left them all behind and became an Old Man of the Mountain."

"Cursed Arm, I'm sure for a fact that everyone that you met and loved all understood what your goal was. That is why everyone no one wanted to stop you. They all wanted to achieve something you so desired." Sonic replied

"Sonic..."

"I mean, look at you right now. You're helping innocent people by giving them a place to stay and food to survive. That alone is already an accomplishment. It takes a strong individual to stand up from the crowd and help out others—an amazing act of heroism. Hey, don't think that people will forget you, cause even after one day when I return home. I'll always remember you. Cursed Arm." Sonic said

"Sonic, I never thought I'll hear those words from you. Those words truly mean so much to me. Thank you. Cursed Arm said

"Just here to help out a friend, that's all. Now then, spend time with the others and enjoy the night. You sure are missing the fun down there." Sonic replied

"Heh, thank you again, Sonic. I'll be seeing you tomorrow for our important meeting, Master." Cursed Arm said


*The Next Day*

"Good morning. Everyone had a good rest last night and is fully recharged. So. I will get straight to the point. Sonic, we would like a word with you." Cursed Arm said

"A word with me? What's going on? Did I do something wrong?" Sonic confuse

"It's none of that, Sonic. Cursed Arm told Serenity and me about what you said to him yesterday. That alone was enough to tarnish our beliefs that you were part of the Lion King. Also, saving Serenity and the people was also a huge factor. You alone have contributed to the well-being of every citizen of this land." Hundred Personas said

"Aw, come on, Personas. Save the praise for some other time. My job isn't done here yet. We still have to defeat the Knights of the Round Table, right." Sonic replied

"That is why our plan to stage an uprising against the Holy City was kept secret. Our mission is to defeat the Lion King. Your mission is to face him." Hundred Personas said

"That's been the mission ever since I arrived here. Defeat the Lion King once and for all!" Sonic replied

"To get inside, we'll need to defeat their knights and get past that front gate. We will soon launch a full-scale attack on the city with a united force of those you protected. This wish to pay you in return for saving them the first time you arrived. When we do, we want your help. Please lend us a hand." Hundred Personas said

"I'll stand with you guys until the very end! No matter what happens!" Sonic replied

"You handled situations like this before, Sonic. This should be a piece of cake for you till now! How many troops can you gather to attack the Holy City?" Romani said

"Right now, half of the villages have agreed to join the attack. We have about 8,500 soldiers who can fight at the front. The Holy City soldiers are also less than 10,000 in number, but their training is what makes the difference. All the soldiers there are callous. And if the Knights of the Round Table join the fray, normal soldiers wouldn't even stand a chance. Even so, we can't wait any longer." A hundred Personas replied

"There are five Knights of the Round Table who survived the fight with the Crusaders. Lancelot, Gawain, Tristan, Mordred, and Agravain. On our end, we have eight. Mash, Bedivere, Arash, Hassan, Hassan, Hassan, me, and Sanzang. Plus one counting Sonic since he's also a fighter as well. Wait, Sanzang is practically useless on the battlefield, so back to eight. In that case, why don't we launch the assault by ourselves?" Touta said

"Our fight is to take back the Holy Land. Simply defeating the Knights of the Round Table wouldn't suffice. I mean, that whole 3-on-1 thing." Arash said

"Hey, the Knights are no match for me, and with this sword I have here. It practically is asking for more battles es against the Knights. I can feel it telling me that." Sonic replied

"As Sonic said, we just need to take them down one by one. The problem is Gawain. As long as he is at the front gate, there's no way we can win." Hundred Personas

"Senpai fought him during the day, which would've made him invincible, but he still put up a good fight against him," Mash said

"Which is interesting if you ask me. A typical sword would usually break if it made contact with one of the Knights' swords but on Sonic's occasion. That never happened. It's still sharp as ever and still useable."

"Gawain is the most powerful Knight of the Round Table under daylight. And that sword of Sonic's did deal good damage against him. But it wasn't enough to put him down entirely. We need more power to overcome him. Lady Mash. Your Noble Phantasm's attribute is one of a kind. I can't explain it well, but in terms of fighting with Sir Gawain, Sir Lancelot is the best match." Bedivere said

"I have an idea! Why don't we draw Lancelot to our side and have him fight Gawain!?" Sanzang asks

"How could we turn them against each other!? We can't win them over with a rice ball! That works only for you!" Toutra replied

"On top of that, our purpose is to face the Lion King, but there's also another "enemy"... Ozymandias in the territory of Egypt. It's impossible to tell what he's plotting." Romani said

"Why don't we go and handle those two together? No matter how powerful those Kings are, I can take it, no problem!" Sonic asks

"I rather not see you get hurt, Master. That is why we do have one ultimate secret hidden away." Serenity said

"Serenity! Don't tell me!"

"Please forgive me, Hundred Personas. But isn't this the time for us to break our taboo? We must borrow his great strength if our strength alone is not enough." Serenity replied

"What's with these three with the sudden shock expressions?" Sonic confuse

"The Shrine of Azrael. The one who lies dormant in the shrine of the Assassin's sect, the "First Hassan." Bedivere said

"What!? Do you know of him? You, a Knight of the Round Table?"

"A certain mage told me. "If you and Mr. Sonic are to rise against King Arthur, pay a visit to the Old Man of the Mountain. Not the ones of later generations, but he who is their first, and their last."

"So you knew, Sir Bedivere. Gawain would pose no threat to the First One. However, if we were to wake him up, that could only mean..."

"Sonic, All we need is the means to defeat Sir Gawain, correct? Then come to my village again. We will show you our secrets there." Cursed Arm said

"Sounds good to me!" Sonic replied


*West Village*

"Thanks for using your speed to get us there quicker, Sonic. Our destination is deeper into the mountains. Now, I ask you to accompany me to a place even the mountain people stay away from the Shrine of Azrael." Cursed Arm said

"Azrael? Do you mean Azrael, the Angel of Death?" Romani asks

"Yes. There we will find an assassin who earned a title he didn't even wish for: The very first "Old Man of the Mountain." The guardian of our sect. The Knights of the Round Table would be no match for him. Not even the Lion King would pose a threat." Serenity replied

"In other words, your ancestor! Indeed, it would be encouraging if he could join our side!" Mash said

"What else should I know about this guy?" Sonic asks

"To him, all Servants are equal. Whether powerful or weak, any Servant is mere "one life" before his blade. Everyone who opposes him is killed by "their fate." Bedivere replied

"Interesting. Sounds like Shiki with her Eyes of Death. And I'm glad Shiki and I became best friends after that incident with the apartments." Sonic commented

"Hassan, how long will it take to reach the shrine?" Romani asks

"With my guide, it will take about two days to get there and come back. But with Sonic here, we will reach there in under a minute." Cursed Arm replied

"Sonic, aren't you getting tired of all the running?" Serenity asks

"Are you kidding me? Running is my favorite hobby! Just give an open space, and I'm golden!" Sonic replied

"I have no doubt you got that phrase from Sakata," Mash said

"I'll still be back here just in case anything happens. Somebody has to protect the people." Arash said

"Don't worry, Arash; we will be back before you begin to miss us!" Sonic replied


And so, Cursed Arm explains the location of the Old Man as Sonic helps Cursed Arm, Bedivere, Touta, Mash, Serenity, and Sanzang on reaching toward the area of the Old Man. For each Servant, Sonic runs and jumps on several mountain sides and overall has a blast. While for the Servants, the worse experience they ever had was because of Sonic's swift movement and not being used to such action. Sanzang is the most known one as she cried while being carried by Sonic as he jumped from mountain to mountain very fast and did not stop for something. Eventually, once the insane trips were over. The group finally makes it to the location of the very first Old Man's hideout.


*At The Hideout*

"*Sobbing* T-That was the worst thing I've ever experienced," Sanzang said

"It was a trip indeed. But we finally made it, Master Sonic. This temple you see is the Shrine of Azrael." Serenity said

"*Looking At The Building* Look's kinda sorry looking," Sonic said

"The pressure here is immense! There are no traces of magical energy or Servant activity, no signs of life. Everything down to the pit of my stomach is screaming to get out of here!" Mash asks

"What are you talking about, Mash? There's nothing to be worried about here. It's just a plain old building." Sonic replied

"What lies ahead is the realm of the great founder. There's no telling what could happen. Please be cautious." Cursed Arm said

"What? What's with the stuttering? *All Of A Sudden Get's Attack By A Slash But It Phased Through Sonic* HA! How surprising, a suprise attack. Similar to Ryougi's attack. Stuff like that always happens every time to me. You learn from your past adventures." Sonic said

"Unknown Soul."

All of a sudden, Cursed Arm and Serenity both begin to kneel of a sudden.

"Wh-What's going on!? You're both suddenly down on your knees!" Sanzang confuse

"No, keep it down, Lady Sanzang. It seems someone is already standing in front of us." Bedivere said

"Unknown Soul and ye Inhumans. Thy voices have been heard. The will to save this era. However, death awaiteth all those who set foot into my shrine."

"Umm, can you talk any clearer? I can't understand a word what you're saying." Sonic asks

"Senpai!"

"Serenity, thou shalt oversee the ritual. Show me thy conviction."

Before the Great Founder can do anything to Serenity, Sonic quickly grabs her and moves out of the way before anything can happen to her.

"Whoa! What the?!"

"M-Master?"

"I won't let you hurt Serenity! I don't care who you are! I can challenge anyone who dares to fight against me!" Sonic said

"Unknown Soul. Thou art a quick Soul. Intriguing."

"M-Master. I'm so sorry. Please forgive me." Serenity said

"It's okay, Serenity. It wasn't your fault, to begin with." Sonic replied

"I asked of thee to seize life, and yet thou would seize everything. However, I said also that I judge only the outcome. I judge not the goodness or evil of thy path. Very well. *Appears* Thou art welcome to my shrine. I am Old Man of the Mountain, Hassan-i Sabbah."

"This is the first Old Man of the Mountain? And he was a swordsman?" Mash said

"So this is the guy you two were kneeling about?" Sonic said

"That Assassin over there. Could he be Gra-"

"Hold thy tongue, mage. Unnecessary words diminish the worth of the courage thy summoner hath displayed. *Slashes* Communications*:

"-Huh? What's going on? The feed is cutting out!?"

"O great founder, I am aware of the shame we have brought upon ourselves in visiting this shrine. These souls have risen against the Lion King. Forgive us. Please, grant us the privilege of borrowing your strength. All of this is for the future of our people." Cursed Arm said

"Well, since these two brought us here, we weren't going to ask you in the first place. I don't know why not getting another helping hand to join us. So what do you say, old skeleton dude?" Sonic asks

"*Notices Sonic And His Eyes Widen* What form of trickery is this? Art thou a large blue rodent?" First Hassan said

"*Sighs* Here we go again. Even for such a person like this, battling against strong Servants. He's still suprise to see a talking Hedgehog like me." Sonic commented

"That's the first time I've ever heard the great founder suprise. Seeing someone like you, Sonic." Cursed Arm said

"Well, isn't that lovely to hear," Sonic replied

"Thou Blue Large Rodent. I ask of thee, Doth thou wishest for the head of the Lion King?" First Hassan asks

"Well, not precisely slice the head of its body. More like defeating them my way until they kneel on the ground." Sonic replied

"Unknown Soul, thou are something. Art thou known to fight. The truth of the Lion King. The foolish words of the Sun King. The rending of humanity. And the start of everything. When thou hast accomplished it, my blade shall lead the charge for thee. Thou spokest of the Knight of the Sun, Gawain? My blade will be the raptor that pecketh out his eyes."

"So, you're saying you can help us only if we search for something, right?" Sanzang asks

"There is a mystical realm within the desert. A domain even the Sun King of the desert cannot reach. A vault of knowledge buried within the sands. Its name is the Atlas Institute. Thou Blue Large Rodent, it has come time for thee to know what caused the Incineration of Humanity. I shall appear on the battlefield as the sword of divine will when that has come to pass. Now, Cursed Arm. Offer thine head.

"Learn the actual reason behind the Incineration of Humanity? Well, I was bound to find out sooner than later." Sonic commented

"Now, Cursed Arm. Offer thine head."

"As you wish. I, Hassan of the Cursed Arm, accept my punishment." Cursed Arm replied

"Wait, what?!"

"Wait! Hold on a second! Why must you cut off Lord Hassan's head?" Bedivere confuse

"My mask symbolizeth an Old Man's death. My blade symbolizeth an Old Man's punishment. Knight of a foreign land, a traveler with a silver arm. I am an Old Man of the Mountain for all others. A Hassan who killeth Hassans. When an Old Man is corrupted and hath taken a wrong turn, I shall stand before him. Dost thou understand? All Old Men of the Mountain throughout history have seen my mask at the end of their lives. Not one hath escaped my blade. Thus, those who have seen my mask are the true Old Men. Should that era's Hassan come to ask for my assistance? He will have declared, "I am not worthy of being an Old Man of the Mountain." Therefore, he shall be stripped of his mask."

"You can't be serious, man! You brought me here, knowing this will kill you?!" Sonic shock

"Patience Unknown Soul. Cursed Arm. Although they were thy fellows for a short time, thou hast not revealed thy fate? Rise, Cursed Arm. Thou hast already brought enough shame upon thyself. No more. Carry out thy responsibility with these men. When that is fulfilled, I will grant thee thy death." First Hassan said

"I am grateful for your words. I will fulfill my responsibility as an Old Man of the Mountain."

"Make haste to the Atlas Institute. There is little time left. Ere the lance of the Lion King returneth to its true form, restore the Holy Land... And return the holy artifact."


*Later*

After finally meeting the First Hassan, the group made their way back to the East Village the same day they visited the place.

"*Carrying Serenity In A Bridal Carry* Well, I'm glad that guy is on our side. But I disagree with him treating Serenity like this." Sonic said

"What can you say, Sonic? You can't be a leader if you're not scary. I'm suprise you're the only one who wasn't afraid of him." Cursed Arm said

"Scared? Please! That wasn't even scary at all. The scariest thing I ever felt was being chased by a pink Hedgehog with a giant hammer. Man, those memories still haunt me till this day." Sonic replied

"By the way, can you try to cheer up Serenity? She's been acting like this ever since that incident, and your mountain jumping our way here." Cursed Arm asks

"*Holing Onto Sonic* Master. I know you hate me for not being the Servant you wish to desire to me. Instead of saving you, my main job is to be a Servant. You instead saved me. I'm sorry for being a weak Servant to you." Serenity said

"I'm not mad at you, Serenity. It's my job to help a friend when they need it most, like what happened back there. I wasn't going to let that guy do anything to you. He may be the leader, but that doesn't mean he has the authority over you. You have your personal space—no need to be told what to do. And also, don't tell yourself that you are a useless person. Cause I know that you are a strong individual who can do what others don't." Sonic replied

"Master. Those words make my heart race. Even if I'm a useless Haasn, you still care about me. Thank you. Thank you for accepting me. How can I ever repay you for such kind words? Oh, how about this? *Slowly Kisses Sonic In The Cheek And Smiles.*."

"*Awkward Laugh* T-Thanks? I guess?" Sonic replied

"Such a romantic couple." Cursed Arm said

"*Looks At Cursed Arm* What did you say?" Sonic said

"Oh, I'm joking. It's always funny to see you act differently when romance comes into play." Cursed Arm replied

"*Appears* The live feed is finally back on! What happened?" Romani said

"Yes, Doctor. Here is my report."

*Mash Explains Everything To Romani*

"A mystical realm in the desert known as the Atlas Institute. The Atlas Institute. WAIT! You mean THAT Atlas Institute!?" Romani shock

"What the heck is the Atlas Institute anyway?" Sonic asks

"One of the three primary schools of the Mage's Association. Specializes in alchemy. The Atlas Institute has also provided many other technologies to Chaldea." Mash replied

"The Atlas Institute of that period. Wasn't the desert of Ozymandias before Christ? Then it would be the Atlas Institute before the Mage's Association was formed." Romani said

"Are you against the idea of us going to the Atlas Institute, Doctor?"

"Why would I be? You'll learn the truth about the Lion King if you go there. In other words, you could find out why the Round Table is taking such drastic actions." Romani replied

"That's the point of all this in the first place," Sonic commented.

"I'm also interested in what the Lion King's purpose is. Also, I'm curious how he's upsetting the Foundation of Humanity without using the Grail. It is said that the Atlas Institute has so many abandoned magical weapons it can destroy the world seven times over. Think of them as Chaos Emeralds, but in this world. If Da Vinci were here, what would she say?" Romani asks

"Meh, she wouldn't bother if it was me. But now, let us return to the eastern village. *Suddenly Stops Talking And Begins To Sneeze Several Times*."

"What's the wrong, Senpai? What's with the sudden sneezing?" Mash asks

"Well, I never told you this, but I have a skill that whenever danger is coming. I can sense it by sneezing, indicating that trouble is coming." Sonic replied

"..."

Sonic realized what he had just said as he looked at the distances and noticed Enforcement Knights and Holy City soldiers slowly making their way towards the direction of the Eastern Village.

"Senpai?! You're making me nervous! What's going on!" Mash shaking

"*Begins To Run While Carrying Serenity* Knights and Soldiers have been spotted heading towards the Village!" Sonic shouted

"What?! Are you serious?!" Mash shock

"We must go and warn everyone to prepare to evacuate! Come on, let's hurry!" Cursed Arm said

"Right behind you!" Touta said

"No one is going to die today!" Sanzang said

Moments later, everyone begins to follow Sonic as fast as they can towards the Eastern Village and warn everyone about the incoming attack.


Once the group arrives at the Eastern Village, Sonic warns Arash about the incoming Enforcement Knights and Soldiers heading towards the Eastern Village. After hearing the report from Sonic, an immediate evacuation was set up as every villager began to grab supplies, grab their family members and hide in a cave that was set up expressly for any emergency. Sonic, Arash, and the group helped every villager get into the cave safely without causing a mass panic. Eventually, all the villagers made it inside the cave as Sonic, Mash, Serenity, and the others all stood back and prepared themselves for a fight.


*A Couple Days Later*

With no sign of Arash being around and handling other Soldiers by himself. Sonic and the Servants began their battle against the Soldiers and Enformcent Knights inside the Village. The action was intense for both sides as the village burned around them. Many soldiers have fallen due to Serenity's attacks. Many pushed back due to Mash's strength. Stronger enemies have failed due to Sonic's speed and ability to wield such a sword from an unknown world. But it wasn't easy as the battle raged on for several minutes, and not one side was going to give up just yet or fall back in that matter.

"*Kicks A Soldier In The Head And Throws Him Aside*

"*Slashes An Enforcement Knight Several Times Before Striking Them* Everyone, keep fighting! The battle is far from over! Don't worry about the villagers! They are all safe!" Sonic shouted

"You heard, Master! Keep fighting!" Mash shouted

"It seems like I finally met the Blue creature everyone has been talking about." A Voice said

"*Turns Around And Notices A Red Hair Person Standing In Front Of Him* Who are you!" Sonic said

"I'm Tristan, a Knight of the Round Table. I've come to collect your head. I heard stories about a savior protecting the villagers from us. But now that I found their savior, I'll be the one to end that story. After I finish you off, I'll get the villagers who fled for the cave." Tristan said

"Heh, like that will ever happen! I knew since the beginning that I would be chased around by the Knights after fighting Gawain. And you know what I said to myself after that. That I'll be waiting for you to catch up with me." Sonic replied

"*Watching From A Distance* Senpai!" Mash shouted

"*Grab's Mash before She Can Start Running* It's too dangerous to enter that battle. He's no normal Archer. He's a monster." Serenity said

"I need to go help out, Senpai!

"I see, so each day that has passed by. Have you been waiting for us to arrive and take your head off? How sad, indeed; I am sorry. The feeling I get with that sword reminds me of something else I can't point out. Also, don't tell me that man is here. The Heroic Spirit of the Round Table refused the Lion King's summons. The one is chosen by the Holy Grail. Come now, young one. I'll let you practice with me. Let your screams reveal your true identity!"

"Heh, we will see about that!"

Tristan pulls the bow's string, creating an instrumental-like sound as the beam heads straight toward Sonic. Sonic notices the arrow heading towards him and blocks it with his wro

"So the rumors are true. A sword not affiliated with the Round Table can withstand a weapon like mine. Tell me, Knave. What is that sword you hold named?" Tristan asks

"That question will remain unanswered until

"How sad, how much more can go before I send you to the underworld?" Tristan said

"This stops now, Tristan!" Bedivere shouted

"To think that even you would appear on this battlefield and oppose us. I was only one step away from being able to burn everything to the ground. How disappointing. Ah, How sad it is." Tristan replied

"What's sad is you that want to kill innocent villagers! And when that didn't work, you burned down their home! Have you lost your pride as a Knight of the Round Table? Or is this merely what your king wants!?" Bedivere shouted.

"You think a knight who sits at the Round Table wouldn't harm an innocent commoner? That is a gross error. A mistake. Regarding Britain, our benevolent king did indeed warn against proceeding too far, but he certainly allowed it. You do not understand his horror. The king does not understand people's feelings!" Tristan said

"Because he isn't a King! He's a monster! I have seen plenty of Kings before, and not one of them has the courage to on and kill many innocent souls just because they don't understand their feelings!" Sonic shouted

"Foolishness."

"Tristan!"

"Such anger and a brandished blade. To think the calm and meek Bedivere could show such rage? It appears your right arm is quite the Noble Phantasm. I fear I cannot afford to hold back. This sorrow shall never be healed. To think I must slaughter you with these hands, with these strings. Please, reconsider. Just thinking about such a thing, about cutting you down. It breaks my heart." Tristan said

"When we stood together, no other knight matched my step as closely as you did. Be it defending or attacking, or anything else."

"We were friends. Is that not right, Sir Bedivere?"

"You did well enough, Sonic. Now it's my turn to settle this. If you say the Lion King sanctions this, I have no choice but to step over your corpse to face the Lion King myself!" Bedivere said

"You would confront the current king? How sad. As such, I have no hesitation about slaying you on the spot. Rescuing one's friend from tragedy is also friendship, after all."

Moments later, Tristan pulled each string on his bow as arrows headed toward Bedivere. Bedivere blocks each attack with his sword before charging toward Tristan and clanging weapons with him. Tristan smiles as the two are pushed back from one another. Bedivere then charges up his arm as he charges toward Tristan and slashes him, causing an explosion towards Tristan. However,

"*Kneeling On The Floor In Pain* Ugh..."

"The sound of flesh and bone burning. I don't know how you came to possess that silver arm, but its power is too much for you. Of course, even it cannot defeat me as well. Let us call it a wasted effort. You will all die here regardless. *Pulls The Strongs On His Bow Once Again Only To Have The Attacks Blocked By Sonic*" Tristan said

"Did you already forget about me?

Moments later, Mash, Serenity, Cursed Arm, Touta, and Sanzang arrive soon with Sonic and Bedivere.

"Guys!" Sonic said

"Sorry for the wait, Sonic. We took care of every Knight and Soldier that caused a problem here." Sanzang said

"Senpai! Don't leave and handle things on your own!" Mash said

"What a group of failures. I have no kind words to good-for-nothings." Tristan said

"I'll never forgive you! No matter what! Tristan, Knight of the Round Table." Cursed Arm said

"Same goes for us, Old Man of the Mountain. The king will never pardon you. The time has come. Gaze upon the western sky. It is time to accept your punishment and your regret." Tristan said

"What?!"

Sonic and the others stare up and notice a pillar of light falling from the sky. Moments later, the light post exploded, causing massive damage to the Western village.

"...It can't...be..."

"The western village is being swallowed by that light!" Serenity said

"*Eyes Widen After Hearing What Happened* No way!" Sonic shouted

"That is the Lion King's judgment. A pillar of purification from the sacred lance, Rhongomyniad. As you can see, that tiny village of mountain people has disappeared. And this village is next. It shall be purged without a trace." Tristan said

"You! Have you all gone mad?! Do you think that is King Arthur's doing? That!?" Bedivere shouted

"Judgment must not be clouded by sentiment! His Majesty has succeeded in entirely severing human emotions! In just two minutes. The Lion King's judgment will descend upon this mountain. Farewell, Sir Bedivere. We shall never meet again."

Sonic's sword begins to glow bright yellow as he suddenly lunges toward Tristan and unleashes a series of powerful sword slashes towards him, Tristan attempts to block Sonic's attacks, but his attacks are more significant than previously fought. Moments later, Sonic unleashed a downward slash which caused Tristan to be sent flying away from the village.

"Right above you! Magical energy value over 3,000,000! Um. Even the highest ranked Noble Phantasm has a value between 1,000 and 3,000." Romani said

"We're not leaving anyone behind! I'll take this beam down! Even if it takes me out!" Sonic replied

"You tell 'em, Sonic. It's no wonder your called a savior by every villager here." Arash said

"Lord Arash?!"

"*Returns While Bloody* Yo. Sorry, I messed up. They got me, and just like that. Those guys were a pain in the butt to handle." Arash replied

"Arash, what happened to you?! Who did this?" Sonic shock

"I messed up, but I've made it back in time for the opportunity to redeem myself. Redeem myself to you, Master." Arash said

"Huh?"

"If you don't mind. I'll like to this opportunity away from you. I'll get serious, just this once. You guys stand back by the cave. Take care of the folks who've made it there alive. Relax, I won't let the attacks reach you there." Arash said

"Lord Arash."

"Sorry, Sir Bedivere. After all those lectures I gave you, I'm the same as you. That's just the way I am. I can't do anything about it. This is how the Heroic Spirits that aren't hungry for power come to an end. We win the battles but lose the war, as they say. Isn't that right, Sir Bedivere? You reached your limit long ago. Yet it's incredible how you still manage to remain standing." Arash said

"You give me too much credit, Arash. I still don't have the resolve that you do." Bedivere replied

"Listen, Bedivere. You can rest now. No, you should've rested a long, long time ago. Throwing away your last remaining happiness. Make sure the next time is against your final opponent. But enough chitchat. Thank you all for everything! Lord Hassan, take everyone to the cave! Thank you for the happy time, Sonic." Arash saying goodbye

"You're the greatest ally I met on this land!"

Moments later, everyone begins to run into the cave, only leaving Arash behind.

"All right, everyone's gone. Now it's time for some one-on-one with that annoying thing above."

"It's time for the big one, Lord Arash." Touta said

"Just do what you gotta do, Arash," Sonic said

"Wait, you two are still here!? Sitting and drinking wine, too!?" Arash shock

"It'd be a shame if no one was there to witness your final glory. So I'll stay here. Let's see what you've got."

"A Knight doesn't leave his members alone. They must honor them until the end." Sonic replied

"You two are the most insane people I've ever met. And I don't regret it one bit. *Aims Arrow At The Sky* O sacred Lord. O radiant Lord who bestowed wisdom, sanctity, and strength upon me. I call upon you to witness my heart, thoughts, and everything I've achieved. Now, creator of the moon and stars. Behold my deeds, my death, and the Spenta Armaiti I must carry out. After I unleash this last arrow with all my strength, my iron body shall shatter, annihilate me where I stand! Lone Meteor, STELLA!"

Moments later, Arash fires the arrow upwards in the sky as it heads towards the pillar of light. Everyone watches as the arrow gets closer to the pillar until it stops it and explodes altogether. Arash soon after vanishes. As it dies down, the pillar is officially eliminated.


*The Next Day*

"(Sob) Arash! He said he was so happy to be summoned! He said he was so ecstatic to have become a Servant! That idiot! That dummy!" Sanzang said

"Calm down, Sanzang. Not in front of the children. If you cry, they all will too." Touta said

"Lord Arash was a hero from ancient Persia. They say that, with a single shot from his bow, he ended a war between two countries. According to legend, the arrow he shot from the mountaintop landed far ahead, piercing the ground. That arrow was an earth-splitting shot. It was a shooting star that brought peace. However..."

"The exertion was too much for a human. The hero's body shattered the moment he shot that arrow. The arrogance of a mere human splitting the earth was unacceptable. As punishment, the hero gave up his body."

"A Noble Phantasm unleashed at the cost of one's own life... That's just unfair..."

"Lord Hassan. What has become of the western village? Is it true that not a trace?"

"Indeed. Not even a shadow remains. All of the villagers had already evacuated elsewhere. Thanks to Sonic's objectives, Hundred Personas stayed there for that very purpose."

"Sonic, you must go. The word that Lord Arash's shot saved the village, and kept the mountain will soon spread to the Holy City. As well as all the Villagers who survived because of you will apply. They'll come for us. That much is clear. Head for the desert before that, Sonic." Cursed Arm said

"*Looks At His New And Improved Sword* Got it! You heard the man, Mash. We have to get going! At least we know that every villager has lived to see another day." Sonic said

"We have King Hassan's orders, too, but we want information that will help us rise against the Holy City right now. Now that we've seen the Light of Judgment with our own eyes, we know there isn't a moment to lose. We have to find a way to counter that." Romani said

"After we evacuate the people of the village, we must prepare for the advance on the Holy City. Serenity and I will remain in the mountains. The next time we meet will be before the attack on the Holy City. I'll spread the word about Sonic to all the mountain people, wherever they may be. They'll hear about something happening to us, and vice versa."

"Very well. Hassan, everyone, take care. Let's go, Senpai!" Mash said

"*Gently Hold Sonic's Gauntlet* Master Fujimaru. Or should I say, Sir Sonic. I know I promised to protect you until the end, but the duties of an Old Man of the Mountain take precedence. I hope to help you from the sidelines." Serenity saying goodbye

"Don't worry, Serenity. We will meet again soon for our final assault at the Holy City." Sonic replied

"Sonic, Mash, Bedivere, Xuanzang Sanzang, Tawara Touta. You five will head for the desert." Romani said

"The village leaders will gather here for final confirmations before we depart for the Holy City. I leave the rest to you, Sir Bedivere. Upon our honor, we will ensure that heretic's death is the cruelest of all. Never forget that. I will show no mercy, even for you, should you defend him." Cursed Arm said

"The injustices committed by the Knights of the Round Table is a responsibility held by all of the knights. Hence, if the Lion King is exposed as the true evil, I implore you: treat me no different than the rest of them. ...As one of the unsightly invaders who violated your land, I want you to equally bestow the judgment of death upon my neck." Bedivere replied


To be Continued


"Next Time: Camelot (Part 4.)" Sonic As The Narrator