As everyone continues walking to the rocky valley, the woman in red starts up to her curiosity. "By the way. It's no doubt that you're foreigners, but where are you from? Surely not Britannia." given from her assumption that they're not with Boudica based on their clothing. "The Far East… doesn't seem likely, either."

It is expected that every people would ask that kind of question to foreigners. Nexus doesn't want to bring up too much info exactly where we from and nothing stupid like they're from the future. Seriously? How would that convince them just saying straight up they're from the future without any viable evidence? For now, it'd be better not to bring up any names but to just state something that are vital.

"We're just travelers. We practically travel through our whole life since we don't usually live in one place." Nexus answered. Although it is obscure, but not exactly a lie since they've been to Orleans.

"Travel your whole life…?" she wondered as the distant shouts were heard coming from their direction.

"Oh look, there's company." Nexus perked up as everyone ready themselves in battle.

"Damn those restless United Empire! How dare they interrupt my beautiful voice!" she shouts in irritation readying her sword up. "You! Very striking-looking girl, I order you to serve as my shield!" she pointed to Mash giving her the order.

"Eh, uh right!" Mash responded.

"And you, average-looking one!"

"Yeah, yeah. Just a heads up." Nexus said before he braces himself. "I give my respects to you. But I'm not taking orders to anyone. Jeanne! Come with me! Everyone! Follow Nero's lead!" he dashes in the wave that the red woman called them 'United Empire' as he calls out to Jeanne.

"Yes!" she goes along with him engaging the enemy. Nexus shift's his eyes into blue as his hand creating water coiling around his arm and he starts to throw his arm creating a wave of water throwing at the enemies. The force of water was thrown at the United Empire as Nero's forces advances against them.

"Jeanne you take the side that's on the right." Nexus advises Jeanne as both of them get into their stances. "I'll take the ones on the left."

"Yes. Leave it to me, Master." Jeanne readies her banner engaging at the enemy and Nexus generates water from his hands and fires high-pressured beams of water at the Roman soldiers (enemy). He constructs a water blade from his hand countering and slashing at the soldiers. One uses a spear to lunge at him but swerves around him forming his water blade entrapping his whole body into a bubble. Nexus then back kicks the bubble launching at the mobs exploding on impact.

He then senses another arrow coming at him as he quickly flicks his wrist moisturizing the air to construct a mini water blade using the momentum and speed increasing its sharpness throwing at the arrow splitting through cleanly and hits true at the precise rate at the archer.

Once the second wave was cleared, everyone regrouped now that the enemies are cleared and no hostiles incoming.

"Somehow we're out of danger. You ended up saving the day again." the emperor remarked. "It's not uncommon to be outnumbered in war, but being on the inferior side is no fun. So tiring!" she complained.

"Well it does give you more of a challenge, great emperor." Nexus conveyed. "Speaking of which…" he could sense a strong magical reading coming ahead. "There's one right, now."

"Eh!? There's a Servant heading your way!" Roman exclaimed when there were plumes of dust heading towards their direction and it stopped revealing to be a single man with blue rough hair, black eyes with red irises, and wears gold plating along adorned with a red cape. From appearance, he doesn't look more of an ordinary roman citizen but more like an emperor.

"My beloved niece." the man groaned.

"Uncle!" the red swordswoman was shocked to see one of her relatives but kept her composure. "No, let me rephrase that. The fool who lost his way aligning the United Empire! Caligula!"

"Wait, did she just say Uncle?" Roman asked.

"She definitely said uncle." Nexus answered. "It's kinda surprising that she knows what her uncle looks like. Probably from a pedestal."

"My actions are destiny. Give up your life, that body. ALL OF IT! GIVE IT UP!" the man roared charging forward.

"Boy, this guy got issues of his niece complex. Not to mention he's gone far enough to go for sexual harassment." Nexus remarked nonchalantly. "Let's end this quick!"

"Yes!" everyone one of his Servants respond charging towards the running man. From what he could tell, it's clearly that he's a Berserker running like a madman. Although, he does speak but lacks in vocabulary to converse. While running, he sees that the red woman was joining in the fray.

"Emperor!"

"No worries. Caligula is focused on me, is it not?" she replied. "Then, this shall give an opportunity to strike. Seize that moment while he is distracted!"

He nods in agreement turning to the running man. "Eyes up! He's a Berserker! Don't try to go head on! The only he's going after is her! Just try to stop to his tracks!" he said to the others. Although sad to say, he could think of it as an advantage but that'd be rude in front to the emperor and also for the fact using someone else as bait. Not the kind of plan he would make but it's happening right now so might as well make it easier.

Following their Master's orders, Alter Saber enlarges her sword sweeping horizontally at the madmen at his left and blocks it throwing it aside. Caligula builds up more momentum lunging at her to deliver a punch as she barely dodges it. Although in terms of strength, it wasn't much but it did pack a lot of force from its fierce power.

Rider decides to increase her speed blurring through going behind at Caligula. She was at a throwing as she launches her dagger for his right arm impaling it to restrain his movements. This made him enraged trying to pull the chain attached to it. She decides to let it go not to be thrown from his strength and makes another dagger as the Berserker was still running.

Caligula continues on rushing to destroy anything in his way, as a Berserker should be. Jeanne stood firmly in front of him.

"Caligula, you were once as a king that leads people and now you were driven by tyranny and madness from your downfall." she states to Caligula sympathetically as she spins her banner and prepares herself. "Let the Lord quell your anger and may you rest in peace." she jumps forward stopping his advancement. Jeanne keeps the Berserker on hold of his position blocking and countering his attacks. The strength was a bit overwhelming to her but she held her position firmly not to keep off balance.

As he doesn't want to keep this up he decides to jump over in mid-air aiming for the red emperor.

"GIVE IT UP!" he roared raising both of his arms attempting to smash.

"Mash!"

"Yes!" Mash got behind of the blonde emperor and raises her shield negating the impact from Caligula's smash. As he lands the solid ground, Nexus shifts his into terra shifting the ground entrapped both of his legs.

"Now!" he gave out the signal as Salter, Jeanne, and Medusa lunges at Caligula in three ways. Once they pulled out, he dropped onto his knees with blood flowing out slowly.

"Oh…my beloved…my beloved….niece…" he groaned. "Why…why won't you give it to me? Why can't you give it to me? My…my…." His body then starts to dissipate itself and left.

"H-He's gone?" she exclaimed surprised that he just disappeared.

"He's not dead yet. He turned into Spiritual form and flee." Nexus confirmed. "To think that he had some logic in him."

"My uncle must've been the general of that battalion." she said mentioning about that second wave they encountered. "I never thought I'd see him again."

"Well at least it's over for now, good work. It's hard to believe for a Berserker to flee…could it be that he has a Master?"

"It's possible…" Nexus replied. "I did see traces of lingering magic energy coming from him. But I couldn't get the full view since I can't see the other end of it unless I did."

"Hmm?" the red woman looked around confusingly wondering where that voice came from. "There's a man around that is heard but not seen. Is it a mage?"

"Oh him? Oh he's just a guy who helps out. Nothing special." Nexus answered.

"No can I at least introduce myself-" before Roman could continue the emperor decides to go along.

"That's all right."

"No don't just interrupt me…" he said solemnly.

"I'm not sure about the faceless one, but the all of you fought marvelously. Once again, I praise you!" she gave her thanks. "Before I ask about your lineage, I shall offer my own. I am the true protector of Rome. Truly, I am Rome itself. I swear to rebuild the empire. Yes, this I swear to the gods, my ancestors, myself, and to the people! For that I am the fifth Roman emperor, Nero Claudius!" she introduced herself in a grandiose manner.

'Of course it's her.' Nexus thought in a neutral face.

"Heh heh heh, are you surprised? You are surprised!" she puff her chest out proudly convinced that everyone was surprised. "Umu! Very good. Be as surprised and amazed as you like. I shall allow it."

"…Emperor Nero." Mash was quite speechless not because of Nero's glory but the fact that she's actually real.

"Yep. She's totally real." Nexus said now that Mash was convinced.

Upon entering Rome, they were introduced with thousands of clapping and cheering for their return of the great emperor walking down.

"Take a good look and be struck with awe! This is my city, a glorious regime even young girls extol!" Nero said proudly.

"They do seem very enthusiastic." Nexus remarked.

"Yes, yes, didn't I tell you? After all, this is the greatest city in the world!" Nero agreed to her city's happiness of her people and its glory. "First, it was Septem Montes but that's where it all started. Our glorious history began with our divine ancestors and those hills." She motioned her hands to the hills ahead.

"Hey shopkeeper. I'll take one of these apples." she takes one of the apples passing by.

"Welcome to… oh! Your majesty!" the shopkeeper was surprised to think that the emperor herself would personally buy her apples. "Please, take as you wish. Glory to the emperor and Rome!"

"You don't need to be stiff, shopkeeper." Nero reassures the shopkeeper. "This is a delicious apple. Why don't you take one too?" she offers the apple to Mash. "We're returning from war, no need to mind about bad manners. Sweet fruit does wonders for battle fatigue. Wounds won't heal, but my motivation will!"

"Oh, no thank you. But I appreciate the gesture…" Mash politely declined the generous offer.

"Then how about that man over there? They're delicious." she motions to Nexus.

"I'm fine." Nexus said but appreciates the generosity.

"Really? That's pretty modest of you." she was taken aback from their modesty and embarrassed herself. "Well, for me? I'm usually humble about things too, you know? But I want to show off a little-" she clears her throat for a moment. "A-Anyway."

"She's cute." Mash whispered along with the other Servants thinking the same and Nexus sighs.

"Umu. Once again, I like you. Honestly, I'm unclear about what you speak of… but I can tell that you are honest people."

"It might be best to think of us simply as a mage and his pupils." Dr. Roman said.

"Is that so? Then let us forget this talk about Masters and Servants." Nero said deciding to go along with Roman's way. "You are the mage's pupils, and the one speaks from a distant land. You also said your goal is to aid me?"

"Well, that's the basis of it." Nexus said. "We're just here to get something and to fix this up."

"Yeah that's easy for you to say." Roman remarked getting back to his point. "In this era, there should be no threat but the Grail's influence are causing an uprising. An empire that greatly influenced later generations. Stopping its destruction would fix the singularity."

Nero was trying to understand to what the nonexistent voice to what's going but can't grasp it very well. "S-Sorry, I don't quite understand. Please speak a bit more in my range of understanding."

"What he means is that those "United Empire" you mentioned, weren't supposed to exist. And that it's coming from the Grail making a mess out of your kingdom." Nexus explained in lay-men's terms.

"I see. This Holy Grail is damaging my Rome, is what you're saying?"

"Yes…it does seem very shocking to you." Mash said.

Nero shook her head. "No, neither strange nor weird. This Holy Grail. It strangely… worries me…" she mumbled anxiously mentioning the term thinking if she remembered or not. "Never mind, a needless concern of mine. It's just a nightmare I had once. Right. Come with me, let's talk freely in my home." she said guiding them to her palace.

"Now there are two things I must consider. One, is the true Roman Empire I rule over and the other are alliances that are led this by multiple "emperors" appeared out of nowhere and invaded my Rome. The United Roman Empire. That's what they called themselves after stealing half of my territory." Nero explains the situation to what is happening. "They're still a mystery to us. No matter how many scouts we send, they never come back."

"Multiple Emperors, you say?" Mash asked.

"You're saying that there's different leaders with different armies?" Nexus could imagine how difficult it'd be if one leader were facing against forces led by several other leaders with tactical experience on the battlefield. Let's just say, it was a pain for him to do.

"That's right. In my eyes, they're just a group of bandits and then…" Nero was about to say something but she seemed remorse to talk about. "…No, it's not worth mentioning. Just rebels spreading their vicious lies. They're merely just pretenders."

"Because there are other emperors than you, am I wrong?" Nexus thought aloud.

"Senpai."

"No, it is fine. You saw them before. Caligula, the traitor calling himself "emperor" who slaughtered my forces before you arrived. And also…my uncle…"

"Shouldn't he be dead already?" Roman said.

"Historically, yes. He would. But apparently he's here from the disturbance." Nexus answered.

"Yes. Even our Court Mage was killed by him. If he were still alive, he would've gotten along well with the formless mage. He boasted that he'd overcome death and shown me some impressive spells. But… he was killed by that "emperor's" sword."

'"Emperor's" sword, huh…' the black-haired magus thought.

"To easily beat a mage of this era… that's not ordinary. It's a Servant."

"We could assume that one of these "emperors" hold the Grail." Roman assumed.

"The United Empire is strong. Violent battles are occurring all over and the people suffer. I've dispatched all my viceroys and generals, thrown nearly every troop at them. Yet we could barely scratch the surface on them." Nero continues, "Recently, an expeditionary force of theirs pressed in on the capital and managed to get inside. I only had few troops of mine to defend. I hate to say it, but it showed me that this is beyond my ability to break on my own."

As the woman in red decides to cast her pride aside and admits that the situation is dire for her, she looks into Nexus' obsidian eyes in resolute. "Therefore. I order you, no, I implore you! Become my generals! Then Rome and I shall assist you in obtaining this Holy Grail!"

"Such a heaven-sent proposal. It seems we have a common cause." Roman said brightly.

"That's right. What do you think, Senpai?" Mash looked at Nexus for his response.

"I don't know about being your general. But I'll just assist you for whatever I can. We do have a common goal." Nexus accepted the offer from Nero.

"I see! I see! That's also fine!" she said satisfied from that answer. "I shall grant one of you the title of viceroy, as well as the reward for the work you've already done. Rest well tonight. I shall prepare quarters suitable for a viceroy like you. Does the invisible mage require them?"

"Don't worry, supplying a room for them are enough." Roman said, "By the way, have you ever heard the name Lev Lynor?"

"…Lev? Not that I remember, who is he?"

"You could say that he's more of a bastard that needs to be taken care of. A guy in our timeline." Nexus responded, "It's a possibility that he's around in this era. But we're not sure if he revealed himself or taken action."

"A mage from a foreign land? Hmm…" Nero thinks deeply about a mage that could be unusual to the event. "It's only a rumor I heard, but someone saw a mage on the front lines in the United Empire."

"Is he the one responsible who caused your world that ended?" Jeanne asked.

Nexus nodded. "Yeah, it's him."

"I see…is that your sole reason?"

The black-haired man looked at her if Lev Lynor was the sole purpose of stopping the eradication of humanity or was she asking about himself as the sole purpose personally.

"Well, he is someone who needs to be taken care of since he's the one bombing Chaldea. But Jeanne, it's not like I'm solely focused on killing him. I mean, I did expect that he would do something like this ever since I met him. Everyone was surprised, it's just the fact that humans can be manipulative in some ways for their ambition. But saying that he's my sole purpose is a bit too much. That's way before that."

"…Is that so…" Jeanne thought deeply.

"It's possible. Your Majesty, I have a request." Roman offered.

"Speak."

"I'd like Mash and Nexus along with his Servants to be deployed close to the front lines as possible."

"I don't mind, but… will you be alright?"

"…Yes. Lev Lynor is our enemy." Mash said.

"He needs to be held accountable for it. And be dealt with." Nexus said clenching his fist.

"Very well. Then Nero Claudius will honor your request. I shall pray to the gods and divine ancestors of Rome for your enemy to be defeated." Nero agreed. "But first, how about a feast before you rest! Not as grand as usual, but it will still be a feast where I spare no efforts. Do you drink?"

"Oh, uh, no drinking for me thanks…" Mash politely declines the offer.

"I do drink. But I don't think we got much time for that." Nexus said as the door was pushed open from a Roman soldier runs to Nero panting.

"Your Majesty! The eastern city gate is under attack by mid-size United Empire force!" he reported, "I think they're remnants of that expeditionary force! We can't hold them back!"

This made Nero anxious and frustrating at the same time for something dreadful to hear to give her gratitude from her allies. "Just as I was about to have a rare pleasant feast."

"Well, I wouldn't be surprised if there was a Servant leading. Everyone, ready?"

"Yes." they all responded.

"I'm counting on you Viceroy Nexus. Show those skills you demonstrated before! The feast can wait! We'll look forward to it!" Nero said as Nexus and his group head outside towards the eastern gate.

"Enemy forces sighted. They're in battle formation." Mash reports arriving to the eastern gate with the United Empire Forces nearly breaching to the gate where only a few of Nero's forces could hold themselves.

"Let's even the odds out, everyone!"

"Yeah!" as everyone dashed into the army.

With Nexus and his Servants, they're taking considerable amount of troops down evening the odds as the eastern gate fortification were easing down their burden with the overwhelming numbers on them but they're not giving in as they kept on fighting. Before they know it, the sky was dark and it was already nighttime but the enemies still aren't giving up but Nexus keeps on going dwindling their numbers.

He begins to shift his eye into earth. "Alter!" he signals on Saber Alter to come with him.

"Yes!" knowing what his next move would be. He stomps at his rear foot making the ground she was about to step rise up instantaneously using it as a springboard. She raises her sword gathering as much of her magical energy through her sword and crashing down making an impact clearing the wide area.

Nexus senses a group of troops charging towards him. He stomps at his side from the ground bringing up a boulder and shoots it from his back kick bulldozing those soldiers into brinks. He immediately stops the boulder preventing to go any further as he swings to another wave of forces swinging it like a hammer. He spins it around demolishing everyone in his path and finishes it off with a slam as he raises the floating boulder up high and swings it down with a giant crash on the ground making all the others near the source to be disorientated and thrown out.

So far, all he could see were just a bunch of Roman soldiers but no leaders that are considered as Servants. I mean, sure. There were sub-leaders leading the group focusing on offense and keeping the Servants on hold to breakthrough. But they don't seem to have any problem on Nexus side. He couldn't sense any magical energy abundant than them or perhaps someone that could be more than normal. But he just needs to focus on this battle for now continuing his fight.

As it goes on. One of the captains called out to retreat withdrawing their troops. "…Whew. Enemy is retreating." Mash reports, "No sign of any Servants, though."

"No mages that are Lev, huh?" Dr. Roman said, "Well anyways, good work. It's gotten dark now."

"Sure is. Let's go back. Supposing that there'd be a night raid, be ready for another battle. For now, get some sleep." Nexus said.

"That's great. I should go back to my room now. I might have to check Magi Mari's blog too. She should've updated her diary by now…"

Nexus just stared at him blankly. "So in the end, you just go to your own coping system of your delusions, huh? Those derived from actual idols."

"What's the problem with that? Internet idols are the "ideal" idols. They're untainted by the hands of media, TV, or even morals!" Roman concurred.

"Tell that to the doujins. I've seen enough." Nexus mumbled to himself. "But instead of hearing your rambling about your magi idol, just do your job, okay? Or maybe I should delete your file that are called "secrets". Then maybe that'd convince you to do your job."

"Th-that was a joke! Come on, I'm always checking your surroundings and finding data!"

"Yeah finding data about the sky ring and where the Grail is at. I'm sure we'll be juuuuussstt fiiiinnneee." he said sarcastically returning to the palace.

"You don't have to mention that…" Roman muttered painfully from his words.

Morning comes by and everyone gathered in the throne room Dr. Roman greets Nero. "Good morning, your majesty. There's a favor I need to ask of you."

"Umu, ask me anything! I'm quite generous!" seeing that she's in a good mood today that there are no enemies approaching into her capital…for now.

"I'd like to go to Mt. Etna to stabilize our activities in this era."

"You found a leyline over there?" Nexus inquired.

"Yes. I found a magical beacon over there in that volcano. We'll be sure to mark our point for summoning."

"Etna, huh? Court Mage used to go Etna a lot too. I wonder why…" Nero wondered in thought.

"It's just for us to set up a terminal for more support." Nexus answered.

"I see. I'm not sure I understand, but I'll grant you permission." Nero granted their permission to cross Etna. "If you go to Etna, will it be for me and the sake of my Rome?"

"Yes. We'll do everything we can." Mash said.

"Very well, although I am pretty occupied with the United Roman Empire you may do as you wish. Be prepared for any enemy on your way."

"I'll be sure to keep that in mind." Nexus notified going to their destination.

"Okay, we've reached Etna." Nexus said after dealing with the ghosts that were near the leyline. It wasn't difficult to handle them since they were at an upwelling phase. "Mash, can you set up the leyline?"

"Yes." Mash sets her shield down on the leyline creating a circle. "Summoning circle leyline secured. Now we can acquire combat personnel even in this era."

Once the summoning circle was set up, Dr. Roman comes up. "Hello. It seems that you've already set up the circle. For now, Da Vinci won't be here since he's busy with Shiva's maintenance." Roman said, "Now you can summon new Servants in your force. Is there somebody you have in mind?"

"If it were, it wouldn't be a gamble since this summons doesn't guarantee who you wanted most." Nexus retorts.

"I suppose you're right." Roman nervously laughed. "But at least you can have more people in your fighting force."

Nexus sighs exasperatedly getting to the circle as he bring out pieces of Saint Quartz where he saved up in Orleans. "Let's just see who's coming with us." as he drops some quartz from his magic energy and the circle activates shooting up the pillar.

"Well. Looks like this time I've been summoned as a Caster." came from a familiar voice walking out from the circle giving the lilac-haired girl a sense of happiness seeing the familiar robe, familiar face, and that familiar staff. It is without a doubt, Cu Chulainn (Caster ver.).

"Caster!" Mash shouted.

"Yo, miss. It's been a while." Cu Caster gave his greeting and turns to Nexus. "Especially for him. It's been a long time." he had a face of nostalgia of seeing someone and the black-haired magus smirked casually.

"You can spare me the details later, Cu. Besides, we got another one coming." Nexus said his retorts as another pillar comes up revealing to be a woman with blue eyes and long purple hair with white ribbons tied on both sides that holds a cross staff.

"I'm Martha." the lady introduced herself, "Saint Martha. It's a pleasure meeting you, Master Nexus. Also, I apologize for troubling you in our fight." she bowed to the black-haired.

"There's no need for you to apologize for that. You were summoned by her and you were contracted to hunt us. There was no other way you could change that." Nexus said waving his hand, "Now that you're contracted by me, there's no need for us to be enemies. I'll be looking forward to your assistance." he lends out a hand to the purple-haired saint.

She raised her head looking at him questionably. The purple-haired saint didn't see his eyes with hatred nor pity at all despite being as enemies. It was generous manner accepting assistance that holds no grudge at all and accepted his hand. "Yes. I'll be sure to assist you as best as I can."

As new Servants greet on each other, Nexus decides to speak up. "You guys can discuss what our next strategy would be before we leave. I want to talk to Caster about something. It won't take long. Just some strategic methods for his skills. You don't mind right?"

"Sure. I was going to ask the same thing." Caster comply.

"Y-Yes, understood. We'll be waiting for your orders until we depart." Mash agrees as Nexus comes with Caster to get some distance for a personal conversation.

Nexus exhales slowly, "How much do you remember?" he asked this question. Although he could say something along the lines of "It's good to see you and all" but he just didn't feel like saying to him. Much less that the blue haired man didn't seem to recall him at the time but he could understand why Nexus would ask that question.

"Well, about the time that you took down that Saber over there. And for the fact that you hadn't told me that you were actually aniki." Caster scratched his head embarrassingly.

"Why should I mention as your aniki to you? Do you take of me as a retard to just spout out that you don't remember who I am? And besides, you were the one that decide to call me that. It wasn't mine in the first place."

Cu went silent from hearing a sound argument since he was never the type of person to do something like that. And that he called him aniki since he remembers that he beaten him in a duel even with spears as his source of proficiency. "…No, you're not the kind of person to do that…"

"And for the fact that you would attempt to kill me?"

He froze just from hearing the tone of his voice that sounded casual but was hidden with intimidation.

"You sure got some guts that you out of all people would try to kill me." Nexus said gleefully for Caster to sweat beads terrified of his anger more than his mentor could. Sure, he admits that she's terrifying but Nexus alone brought to a whole new level and he could remember that time and would never want to repeat that.

"Th-th-th-that was a joke, aniki. I was just trying to get that young lady to rile up to give her a push. It's not like I could kill you. That never crossed my mind." he stuttered putting his hands up.

"Oh, so you're saying that you could kill me. But that never crossed your mind. How ironic, if you never thought of that, then maybe you would never have mention that you would kill me much less try to." his menacing aura was growing more intense that Caster made a mistake for saying that.

"No, no, no, no that's not like that! I never thought of that at all! That was a mistake! I shouldn't have said that! I'm sorry!" Caster apologized not wanting to know what's to come.

"I was joking." Nexus tone now shifted to normal.

"Eh?"

"I could understand that you're trying to motivate Mash just for that. And I don't blame for you for not remembering me at an instant." he assured him. Although, it was beneficial that he doesn't remember him out in the open shouting his name.

"Although, I want to ask. You haven't told them right?" Caster asked in a serious manner.

"…No, I haven't." Nexus answered flatly. He decided not to beat around the bush that the others don't know much about him other than being their Master. Also he prefers not to let anyone pry into his personal matters since that'd be troublesome for him.

"Not even your name?"

"No."

"I see." Caster said with affirmation. "Well, don't worry about it." he said understanding his situation that could be complicated not mentioning his name. The only ones that knows Nexus's name was him and her. "But are you sure about this?"

"I'm sure. If push comes to shove, I'll tell them. But not right now, not even after this." Nexus said stoically. He was never a person to talk about his personal life, after all. It's just that he thinks it's not necessary to talk about it since it may influence on his Servants including Mash. It's certainly not the case that they could just ask him out of curiosity. That'd be stupid. It's just the fact that he's unsure whether to the fact if they could still follow him or not. There will be time that to unravel that story, eventually.

"I see. Well, whatever. I'm sure you have your reasons for this. But it's still good to see you and I'm glad to be your Servant. If only mentor was here."

"Oh so you expect a double whopping for you, huh?"

"Wrong! I'm just saying that she'd be happy if she were here. Besides, you two were inseparable. And then…"

"I know." Nexus said deeply. "But I made a promise to her. Even if she's gone, I'm still going to uphold that promise. Because I'm sure that she's still out there." he tightened his fist remembering the promise he made. He wouldn't keep a promise of something he's not capable of but he's sure as hell won't break a promise even if it's seemingly impossible. He's still gonna go for it.

Caster chuckled at this. "I see you still haven't forgot about her, huh? You know, she was also thinking the same thing as you. Always waiting for you, you know. Even if it was the end of times, she said she would never forget about you since you're the reason to find worth in her life. I guess that's Master for you."

Nexus scoffs knowingly. "I'm just going to pretend that I didn't hear that. Well I guess it's not surprising that she didn't forget about me." he let out a small smile knowing that she still remembers him. "Well, in any case. We got work to do. Let's go back to the others."

"Roger that, Master." Caster comply as they both returned to the others and continue on their way back to the capital.

"Ah you're back, Nexus. And I see that you've brought some people to help us." Nero greeted them from their return on Mt. Etna. "I know you've just returned, but I think of launching an expedition to Gaul. I want to aid my fellow subordinates. If I don't there's no point. Will you come with me?"

"Gaul, huh…" Nexus wondered in thought.

"According to the emperor's details. Gaul seems to be the front line in the war with the United Empire." Dr. Roman said.

"It's a possibility that there'd be a Servant and a high chance for Lev to be there." Nexus said in affirmation.

"But if it's the front lines of the United Empire. That would mean we'll be facing their main forces. If the invaders from the capital have more numbers than our side. Then we'd be facing an even greater number than that." Jeanne said with concern.

"I see…I guess it wouldn't be so boring after all." Nexus said to himself interested in fighting large numbers for a long time. "Alright, we'll go with you."

"It's decided! Guard, prepare our expedition!" she called out to the soldier.

"Yes, your majesty!"

"Are you sure that you can walk without a horseback?" Mash asked Nexus with concern as everyone were riding on horseback except him.

"Don't worry about it. Even without a horse, I could handle walking on my own. Besides, it's way more flexible for me to scout out our surroundings." Nexus said taking the lead to scan on any enemies of their surroundings and he suddenly stops. "There's someone up ahead. Although, it's not a Servant but it wouldn't hurt to be cautious."

"Oh, that's impressive to detect an enemy. Your perception far exceeds than my scouts. I might as well consider you as my personal magistrate."

"We'll talk about that until we deal with these enemies. They're flanking at us from both sides."

"Umu, we'll get rid of them! Nexus, I'll leave the right side to you!"

"Yeah, yeah. Everyone, prepare yourself!" Nexus called as everyone drawn their weapon ready for their attacks.

Nexus kicked the last of the soldier out cold brushing his hands out. "That's the last of them." he confirmed seeing that they are no enemies around the premises as he sees their left side done with them.

"You handled those veterans like they were nobodies. With such small numbers, too." Nero praised to them. Was it thanks to your Servants' skills or was it your leadership? Well either way, you're more intriguing than we first met." Nero praised from their efforts on handling the enemies. "Rather than a guest commander, would you like to serve me? You can savor all the glory of this world by my side after we defeated the United Empire."

"With all due respect, your honor. I do appreciate your praise about us. But I don't think we could always serve you." Nexus said to Nero.

"Eh? Why? Is it not such a bad deal?" Nero said shockingly.

"If it were someone who is devoted to Rome then they wouldn't think of it as a bad deal. But to me personally, I'm not suited to be a subordinate. Also, we got a job to do. And once we're done, we'll be on our way." Nexus answered honestly. Most people would be excited to have an emperor to serve them for honor and glory but that only views to the Romans.

"Is the offer of granting you Britannia for the United Empire's defeat not enough for you?"

"Like I said, we are only here to just finish the task. I have no interest in conquering land nor looking for glory. We're only here to finish the job. Please understand." Nexus never wanted to conquer anything nor seek for glory. He just doesn't find it fulfilling to him and never intends on doing it. He would rather just help them in the sidelines but he would never serve to anybody. Also for the fact he doesn't want to involve with the higher-ups any deeper than that but somehow ended up giving him more of a pain.

"I see…" Nero said downcasted. "That's a shame. Even though I'm taking a liking to you. But if that's your decision then I won't force you."

"I'm glad you understand." Nexus said as he senses several more life forms ahead. "It seems that there's a group of people up ahead. And also…" he senses a couple more energies that could be Servants. "A couple of Servants."

"Oh those are the expedition troops. It seems that we've entered the territory of Gaul. We can finally get a good long rest." Nero said gladly as everyone head towards the campsite to rendezvous.

"So this is how charismatic Emperor Nero was at her peak?" Mash asked still surprised of all the morale of these soldiers from Nero's unwavering speech.

"That's Rome for you. If you want to take pride in your kingdom you must also have pride in your soldiers." Nexus commented. "I suppose that's her prime stage making Rome remarkable." as he was talking, he could sense two magical energies coming to them at their side.

"Well, Emperor Nero Claudius came earlier than I thought." said the woman who gives off a mature aura with pale skin and eyes of turquoise wearing a white top with gold trims along with a red skirt and her red hair is tied into a short ponytail. From what Nexus could see is that she gives off the impression of an aura that is mature. Not too old, not too young. He could assume that she'd be the kind of person that gives a generous affection that would treat a young one as their own child. She could either fit the role of an older sister or a caring mother.

"You there. A man who looks average. Are you the guest commander I've heard so much about? I guess looks can be deceiving after all." the woman asked to the black-haired man noticing to be called average. Not that he could complain since he does have the looks for it. "Thank you for travelling this far. I'm Boudica, the general for this expedition."

"Boudica, huh…" Nexus muttered.

"Yes, "former" queen of Britannia, and this huge fellow here is…" the woman now known as Boudica directs to the giant burly man that towers in two meters. He has blonde hair and blue eyes that are covered in leather straps that tightens his muscles that were covered in scars making it look like he's some sort of masochistic warrior. Nexus wouldn't assume that he'd be a pervert despite appearance-wise but he gives off the impression of masochism to be viewed as some sort of a view to his resistance and is out of the ordinary than any other burly men he encountered.

"Another champion who was invited to the battlefield. You should be pleased. This garden of battle is full of oppressors. They are committing atrocities as they approach." the towering man said in a joyful voice. "It is time to rise up. Let us battle side by side. Those who dare defy this unparalleled tyranny."

"Hoh…is that so?" Nexus responded with interest as all the others couldn't understand what he was saying with a few exceptions.

"Whoa, that's rare. Spartacus hardly ever takes a liking to someone at first sight. I'm sorry, he hardly takes a liking to someone, without pouncing on them." Boudica said.

"I can't translate what he's saying." Mash whispered, "What does he mean by "You who defy tyranny?""

"My guess is that he's a Berserker. He must be…" Roman whispered back not understanding what the muscle man was saying.

"Give me your name, warrior of rebellion so we can go together against the inhumane empire and shout in triumph under the free sky." Spartacus said making the Shielder even more confused.

"The name's Nexus." he introduced himself to Spartacus, "Heh, looks you're energetic for a fight, aren't you?"

"Indeed. With this blade of rebellion, I will cut through the walls of the atrocities and destroy all oppressors!"

"Did he ask your name just now? Is that what it was?" Mash said surprisingly.

"I suppose that stray Servants do exist, after all. It seems that there are exceptions with their own mind to stand by their era and fight." Dr. Roman said.

"Wouldn't be surprising if we encountered more of them. Since this is the third time." Nexus comments.

"Are you perhaps the invisible mage?" Boudica asked hearing the voice in the air.

"Ah yes, I am Roman, the one who supports."

"I'm Mash Kyrielight, we're those who follows Nexus, the viceroy." Mash introduced herself along with the other Servants.

"I've heard your names before, news travel fast even out here."

Nexus sighed exasperatedly, "What the hell? Now people are starting to talk about us, huh? Well it kills for the introduction." he said looking at Nero giving a conflicted face. He lifted his eyebrows in wonder seeming like she's having complicated thoughts in her process of mind. Not surprising for a place of any ruler would have. But the air she's giving off are melancholy like something she had lost or that time when she was excited for an audition but someone more talented came up and took her place.

"Is there something wrong, Nero?" Nexus asked getting the red woman in attention. It seems that her mind was occupied that she didn't bother what was going around her.

"D-Did you say something? It seems that I'm a little tired." Nero said dryly. Nexus could tell that it was more than that. People wouldn't simply say that they're tired just like that unless it was fatigue. He didn't see anything wrong with her stamina considering that it's fine but it'd probably be her mentality if that were the case. "Boudica, take care of our guests. Tell them the situation here. I'm going have to lie down for a bit." she told the red-haired woman. She slowly begins to walk away to a nearby tent hopefully to get some rest. It's best to leave her be. She may have something that was troubling hoping that she'd get better. For now, Nexus should do whatever he can and what he always do.

Evening comes in and Nexus told Boudica that they come from a foreign world and the reason why they're here.

"From a foreign world, huh? I guess such things really do exist." Boudica said with interest hearing their story.

"That's how it is. Considering that you are a Servant in this era. But I'm going have to ask you. Do you still hold a grudge?" Nexus asked seriously to the former queen knowing what that she's on the Roman side that took her home.

"That's right." she answered truthfully. "I do hold a grudge on Emperor Nero and Rome. I swore it to the Celtic gods. And then I was materialized to this era out of everything else. I thought I could take revenge but now they're being overrun by those so-called United Empire…my body moved on its own not for Nero's sake but the people who lives there. Or it was probably that I pity them whom I brutally murdered for vengeance. I don't really know myself. But it's always been like that. I think fighting to protect something is just my personality. It seems most natural to me."

"So she instinctively helped, no, to fight the United Empire that were fighting the Romans. She didn't know why but she did it anyways." Nexus whispered in thought about her. Either way, it didn't seem like she has so much hatred to them since her words were considerate. There is no argument that she does hate Rome but rethinks about the people living there that were never involved. "I guess that's part of her that being the good alignment."

"So my apologies to Nero seeing me as a "worthy living opponent," but…"

"You're keeping your Servant status as a secret, right?" Nexus inquired.

"Yes." she admitted truthfully, "Somehow she's more dangerous than before. If she becomes concerned of me, who knows what she'd do." her lips were turned down with uncertainty since normal or perhaps historical people couldn't fathom of wandering spirits going around and magic nowadays. But it's more likely that Nexus hides Boudica's secret not because of concern for her but perhaps that she doesn't want to be pitied on.

"Understood. You're a proper Heroic Spirit. A hero whom others aspire to be. The symbol of strength to suppress villainy and save others." Mash said gleefully having to witness what an ideal Heroic Spirit would be.

She chuckled in embarrassment, "I just do it on a whim but if that's how I look to you, who am I to judge?"

"There aren't many Heroic Spirits who could put it like that. Queen Boudica, your pride is dazzling." Roman complimented.

"Senpai, are you keeping up with the conversation?"

"What? Her being on the side that conquered her home?" Nexus said making shock looks on Mash and Roman's faces, "I'm sure that she has her reasons to do that. Since it beats on fighting the United Empire rather than the Romans, at least."

"Yes. I do hate the United Empire more than Nero and I'm sure you feel the same way, don't you Spartacus?" her gaze directed towards the gray man.

"Hahaha, the walls of the colosseum have fallen. Soon, all shall become my colosseum." he laughed.

"You see?"

"I don't." Mash whispered admittedly.

"I wonder if she possesses some sort of Madness Comprehension or something…" Dr. Roman whispered back.

"Behold, this muscular body is proof of uprising. All oppressors shall know any injuries inflicted are my strength."

"…Senpai, did you understand what he said?"

"I got the gist of it."

"H-huh? How?" Mash asked surprisingly.

"It's not hard. What he's saying is that he is the symbol of rebellion. And that he would prove himself that the harder they hit him, the stronger he gets. Am I wrong?" Nexus asked for confirmation giving the muscle man a hearty laughter.

"Indeed! You're exactly right!" Spartacus roared in admiration, "You must have share the same language of the rebellion over the oppressors!"

Nexus chuckled from that compliment, "I suppose so…" as Spartacus isn't lying about him as a rebel that would go against tyranny. He takes no harm in that leaving the two baffled at what they were seeing.

Night breaks in setting up campfires eating their food made from Boudica and she was feeding the lilac-haired girl. Ever since then, Boudica asked Mash for a spar and she was cautious for them to be called Nero's ally but she became more open to Mash. Perhaps, too open for the fact that she was smothering her in her bosom and doting her like a little sister.

"That turned 180 real quick." Nexus commented standing with the other Servants along with Saber Alter chowing down on a whole a lot of food that the other Roman soldiers were taken aback from a woman to eat this much.

"First thing she'd be a serious woman and now she turns into some mother doting on her child. Not sure if I'd be up for that treatment." Caster shuddered looking at it.

"W-Well, at least we don't need to think she's hostile…" Jeanne sweat dropped.

"Yes, as a fellow saint she does have a maternal instinct of caressing someone younger. Although it is quite unusual for her to have a sudden mood doing that." Martha comments as everyone even Nexus give them the look.

"I don't think we would need to know if those kinds of people would be considered as "unusual", don't you think guys?" Nexus commented giving his Servants a nod of affirmation with Martha looking at them strangely.

"What are you talking about?" she asked confusingly.

"Mmmhmm, mmmhmm…. Not unusual at all…" Nexus said dryly for someone who could possibly have a personality that could turn 180 real fast.

"Again, what are you people talking about?" she asked with a tone of annoyance furrowing her eyebrows.

"Nothing… nothing at all…" Nexus said dismissively looking at the scene of Mash being fed from Boudica. "An older sister, huh…" he quickly snorts at this, "Well, whatever. It's pointless to think about things you never have. You guys get some sleep, I'm gonna have a shut eye." Nexus walks to the tent looking at the other one where Nero is sleeping.

'Let's hope this doesn't slow you down, Nero. It'll be more troublesome to show your weakness. If you don't know to solve this on your own. Then you'll easily be crushed by them.' with those thoughts into his head going to the tent.

I'm sure I haven't done this once in a while since I'm so preoccupied but thank you for the 200 followers out there and the fact that there's over 30k views for this story. I just wanted to write this story to feel like it and just want this story to be etched here. And I'm hoping for more to come. Wish I could make living like this but I think I'm gonna have to start slow. But thank you guys for liking this and putting reviews on but I'm gonna have to put an effort now.