Arturia watched silently as a small squad of robots continued setting up scaffolding for the demolished wall. Thanks in part to yesterday's events, the women's baths wouldn't be seeing much use anytime soon. A passing employee gave her a sidelong glance, but nothing that sent waves of guilt through her. It was simply curiosity about what was going through her mind as she looked upon one result of her actions. Maybe they wondered if she even remembered any of it in her haze.

…To her chagrin, she remembered all of it well.

The King of Knights wished the potion would have blinded her to her actions, but the potions heavy suggestive influence had other ideas. Somewhere in the back of her mind, she knew what she was doing went against everything she stood for, yet her emotions seized full control of the wheel. It was the equivalent of watching a horror movie without being able to switch the channel, but the consequences were very much real.

"No spa for a week... Shame. Drinking and bathing in a bathtub isn't the same."

There was a pang of guilt driven through her thoughts, but she ignored it as she turned to face the musing rider. Drake gazed casually towards her only a few meters away, wearing a simple pink shirt and jeans. She seemed to inspect the King of Knights for a moment, noting her highly unusual choice of clothing compared to her usual garb. It seemed the young blonde didn't feel like putting much effort into her look based on the loose ponytail and matching blue sweats.

"Bah… Being hard on yourself? I wouldn't feel bad about this if I were you... Hell, I should be thanking a fellow British legend if anything!" Drake laughed with a smirk. Arturia simply remained composed and curious where she stood. "The bastard deserved it every time he's caught, and you know it… Though I guess I'll admit, he gets some credit for his persistence."

Arturia eyed the Pirate while she approached, turned, and threw her arm over the smaller girl. "I'll bet he'll take a little longer break this time around... Dirty perv."

"I guess so..."

"I owe you an extra drink later. Your choice! Feel free to redeem the little coupon whenever!" Drake winked at the girl before patting her back. "Ah… and Happy Birthday, Arturia! Don't let the past sully a day worth partying over! Enjoy the hell out of yourself and live for the moments ahead!"

The pirate began walking down the hallway, leaving the small blonde to her thoughts. Like a broken record, she had apologized profusely to many yesterday, including master, Nero, and Okita. Much to her surprise, they had practically forgiven her on the spot and cited the potion as the real culprit. Emiya had jokingly threatened to limit her dessert servings after her birthday, but quickly retracted the statement when she thought he was being serious.

In truth, she felt… dissatisfied that they'd been so forthcoming. She personally didn't feel like she should have been forgiven so easily and quickly; She could have hurt someone. She'd put humanity's last hopes in danger, and yet… that was all there was to it for them. It was just another accident they were willing to look past. Another reminder that she was still much to stern and beholden to past beliefs and experiences. Perhaps loosening up more, as her friends suggested, would do her some good.

Releasing a sigh, Arturia began walking away from the baths to follow her master's 'order' to enjoy her birthday. 'Hopefully breakfast is extra tasty…'

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Fragment 10: That Sweet Sound

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A tiny smile graced Arturia's lips as she sat in her room. She was wrapping up her daily cleaning of Excalibur while humming. To her surprise and delight, Emiya had personally cooked breakfast for her, and a large one at that. It had taken her record time to indulge herself in the meal like a famished wanderer, much to the usual amusement of those around her. Riding the hopeful high that the day was already turning out well, she decided to return to her room for a bit to do her usual daily routine.

The King of Knights leaned over towards a small, stone pedestal positioned at the foot of her bed with a slit carved into its top. Carefully positioning Excalibur, she placed it into its pedestal where it properly sat in full glory, mimicking what Caliburn had once done so many centuries ago. The sword shined as a few accent lights in the base lit up, letting the blade bask in extra golden glory. Content that her sword was cleaned, she took a moment to appreciate her room's newest furnishings that her friends suggested.

She had two of them requisitioned, with each being its own unique design and meaning. The left most one was blue with gold trim, and was adorned with the honored crests of each of her famed knights. The right was in white with black trim, and held small designs resembling crests placed upon it to represent different servants. If the blue one was her former companions, then the white one was her current in Chaldea. She smiled lightly; Diarmuid always had some pretty interesting décor ideas.

The rest of her room was relatively ordinary, but she preferred it that way. A simple display shelf to hold assorted tokens, craft coins, and assorted pictures. On the wall beside it was a large artist's rendition of Camelot, though if you asked the King herself she found it a little less ornate than the real one. To relax comfortably with any visiting friends, there was a set of oak chairs, beige sofa, and glass coffee table.

Though comfort for guests was at Jeanne's suggestion, the little minifridge disguised as a chest was Emiya's lone contribution… and her favorite. It beckoned to her from beside the closet, but she could resist. The snacks paled in comparison to Emiya's cooking, so her resolve remained stalwart like her armor on its display stand beside it… or… maybe she could sneak one little snack. It was her birthday after-

A knock on her door shook the saber out of her thoughts. Sensing a servant behind the door, she quickly walked over so she wouldn't keep them waiting. Upon feeling for any telltale signs of the servant's signature presence, a frown was slowly etched onto her expression; The day had been starting off rather well too. With a slow but silent exhale, she pressed the button beside the door and let it slide open.

"Yes?" Her voice was composed and calm, even if she slightly clenched her fists in frustration. There was no mistaking this presence for how many times she felt it.

"...May I come in?"

She slowly let out a breath as she considered the answer. A few seconds passed before she stepped to the side so Medea may enter the room. As she quickly stepped in, the caster's purple halter dress with a small white throw over waved gently with her strange movement. Arturia, both curious and guarded, stared at Medea, whose gaze remained out into the hallway while she kept her arms behind her back suspiciously. It was only when the doors close did Arturia's eyes narrow slightly.

"…Is there something you wanted to say, Medea?" Arturia asked slowly as she cautiously stared at her arms for any sudden movement. After what she helped to do yesterday, she wasn't about to trust the caster's current motives. However, that didn't stop her from curiously noting how her eyes seemed to glint with genuine apology. Even her fidgeting lent itself to that notion alongside her clearly uncomfortable state of being.

For the Witch of Betrayal to even dare show this sort of perceived weakness to anyone was enough of a surprise.

"I made some... big mistakes yesterday," Medea began as Arturia crossed her arms, making the princess sigh loudly. "…Yes... That was an understatement. I did mean to prank you, but not to that severity. So… I'm sorry… Things spiraled well out of control and I am responsible for that."

Medea kept her eyes stiff and faced away; An apology was the last thing anyone, save for a scarce few, could ever hope to receive from the usually distant caster. It honestly shocked Arturia, who had nothing but bad experiences with her from any of her recollected summonings in Fuyuki. For her to openly apologize and take responsibility was strange, and left many question, but… was honestly welcome.

"I almost ruined Chaldea, our... mutual home over a teasing joke." It still sounded like Medea was uncomfortable giving any sort of apology, but at the very least, it sounded genuine to the saber. "…I shouldn't have done that. At our master's and my friend's request… I'll stop. Completely. No more ill will."

The tension had left Arturia, though she remained surprised at the turn of events. She had mixed feelings with Medea since the older woman tended to tease her when a window opened itself. It was never meant in outright harm, and the two did have a civil conversation on a rare occasion where they had to, but they wouldn't go out of their way to interact with the other. She had honestly expected the caster to take much longer with the apology if one even came… but it was apparent she misjudged the princess severely.

"You don't have to forgive me. What happened to you yesterday was terrible and I almost cost you friendships you hold dear… I know what it's like to have those dear to you turn away, and I wouldn't wish that upon others who don't deserve it… and there are plenty more deserving than you."

The caster shifted and brought her hands forward from behind her back. Arturia was taken back by the white dress she presented; It must have taken a long time to craft. The design of the strapless dress was much more ornate than any in her wardrobe, and its blue accents pleased the eye. It came paired with a sapphire bow for her hair which rested on the hanger. Arturia reached out and held the presented dress, taking in every ornate detail that was knit into its form. It was so beautiful it could even pass as a simpler wedding dress.

"Naomi helped me finish it last night. It was my short-term secret project I thought you'd like as a gift... without wrapping... I didn't know how you'd feel about something given by me without knowing what it is," a partially ashamed Medea explained as she looked away.

"It's... It's so beautiful," she breathed.

"We worked on it for two weeks, and Vlad pitched in too… We made it extra ornate, fitting for a true royal as the prince stated."

She studied the female caster through her peripheral vision, noting how she kept her gaze purposefully away. Admittedly the young king didn't pay much attention to the powerful magus, but facts were facts. She was now an ally and not trying to openly manipulate her, plus they hadn't fought together all that often. She only really paid attention when she sensed a tease incoming.

…But observing her secretly now, she found pleasant changes.

The air of malice was almost completely gone, replaced by a glimpse of what she can only assume was the Medea before the manipulations and betrayals. It was no wonder her presence felt so familiar yet different when she tried to discern it through the door. She silently gave thanks to her little group of friends that managed to bring the best out of the previously churlish and devious caster. At least she didn't have to deal with her more… questionable methods of torture anymore.

Arturia smiled towards the older woman, "…Thank you, Medea."

Medea looked at the smaller girl hopefully. "Arturia... you…?"

"Yes. I like it," Arturia said softly as she turned the dress around to look at the back before adding. "And I shall forgive you. I only request you do truly stop the teasing."

Medea opened her mouth but Arturia held up her free hand to stop her. "I've forgiven people for far worse actions against me."

"...Thank you, Arturia," Medea stated and bowed slightly with a tiny smile now on her lips. "Once more, I'm sorry. It was a little... difficult for me to do something like this."

"I can imagine for you. No offense," she smiled lightly. It was nice to see the Witch of Betrayal's sincere personality more often. Some change was good. "…But you said this was your project? Not Naomi's?"

Suddenly, Medea flushed noticeably, and Arturia's eyebrows rose ever so slightly in shock. A flustered Medea? That was easily the last thing she ever expected to see, yet there she was… looking embarrassed. "…Yes, well… I had some ideas that I thought would… look really cute on you."

She said the last part so quietly, a human wouldn't have picked it up; Arturia was a servant. Her smile grew slightly as Medea fought to throw her blush aside. To the caster's relief, she managed to win, even if she did look a bit uncomfortable under Arturia's small smile. "Then this isn't the only one?"

Medea slowly nodded, and then curiously raised a new point. "Um, there is one more thing... I'd just like to ask. It's a request, of sorts."

Arturia looked at the older woman. "Yes?"

There was a small pause, and a tiny shift of feet. "Would you... like to help Naomi and I with new dress designs? You'd be a model for them of course, but not to an audience... just for us to get a look at how some new dresses may look..."

"So... you want to dress me up on occasion?" the smaller girl asked with amusement laced into her voice. Medea shifted on her feet again at having her interest caught red handed and fiddled with her hands more. It seemed some things don't change. "To try some of your new designs?"

"W-Well to be fair, you're adorable, and there's a lot of styles Naomi wishes to try now that she's turned into quite the fashion designer…" Medea attempted to deflect. It clearly wasn't working but she continued anyway. "Naomi thought it would also be a good way for us to truly make amends for our past Grail War. I just thought I would ask, but you don't have to answer now…"

Arturia's smile grew.

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"Where are you taking me?" Arturia asked as she looked around; It was useless with a blindfold wrapped loosely around her. To match her uplifted mood, she changed into one of her blue sundresses, though she kept the ponytail after she and Medea had a surprisingly long conversation in her room about fashion; Her passion for it was surprising. Diarmuid had been surprised to find both of them there talking and laughing, but it had been a pleasant encounter for her birthday.

It had to be cut short, because Arturia had somewhere she needed to be apparently. The lancer behind her kept both his hands on her shoulders as they walked. He'd looked dashing as always when he came to get her in a light green polo with jeans, but to be fair, the Celtic knight was usually dashing in anything he wore. His smile was remained his best feature as he kept it tight on his lips while he maneuvered his curious friend. "I can still sense servants, Diarmuid."

Diarmuid rolled his eyes as he turned them down a new hallway, much to the entertainment to any witness. "That's fine, King of Knights. It doesn't matter if you do."

"Is food involved?"

"No. No this time." Diarmuid laughed as Arturia pouted quietly.

Left. Right. Another Right. Left.

After several more turns and a stairway, they made their way down a hallway until Diarmuid gently stopped the small girl. With a small whisper to wait, the lancer walked down the hallway a little further and into a room with the slide of an automated door. To Arturia's curiosity, she could no longer hear any employees or robots in the area, and only sensed the few servants and her master in the room ahead. She heard the sliding doors open once more and listened to his seemingly excited return.

"Right this way," Diarmuid whispered as he slowly walked the small king into the room ahead. Once inside, the only thing she heard was a radio playing classical music from somewhere in the room. It felt welcoming, but otherwise confusing for what sort of surprise show rested beyond the curtains.

"You may remove the blindfold, Arturia."

"Thank you, Gudao," she replied as the occupants of the room collectively held their breaths.

She removed her blindfold, and let her eyes quickly adjust to the light again; They froze as she got her bearings, but the room would never have enticed that reaction. It was just one of the simply designed Chaldean break room for staff. This one belonged to the Magecraft Division as evidenced by the number of sorcery books on one of the three tables with accompanying swivel chairs.

A radio rested on another one, while the Gudao, Mashu, and Doctor Roman sat at another in their standard Chaldean uniforms. Fou sat curled in a ball on their table, looking curiously with a tilted head at Arturia. Paracelsus stood in his robes just behind them with Janice at his side fiddling with the oversized tie on her uniform. Eyes were locked on her, but hers had yet to turn to them.

All of them waited carefully and in concern, for it was not them who caused her to freeze, but the servant sitting on the lone couch at the back of the room.

The man wore tan slacks with black formal shoes that squeaked gently against the floor as he stood. He wore a white collared shirt with a black blazer over it, and kept his fair-skinned hands folded before him. His familiar black eyes gazed back into hers to send a surge of nostalgia and memories coursing under her skin. A mix of emotions fighting for control over the man's composed expression, barely hidden by the long purple hair that reached behind him.

"…My King."

"Sir Lancelot..."

"Thanks to Paracelsus and some assistance by Roman and Scathach, we found a work around potion for Lancelot's mad enhancement," Gudao explained carefully while eyeing the knight as he approached Arturia slowly. "You've had a terrible time yesterday, Arturia… so I'm very glad we were able to figure this out this morning. If all turns out well… you won't have to worry about his mad enhancement again."

"I have already given you my apology, which I am grateful you have accepted, but I had yet to give you a gift. I hope it is well received," Paracelsus explained quietly with a nod. "Everything that has happened recently still bears heavily on my mind. Hopefully one of your knights can help alleviate that better than any of us."

"I..."

Arturia was at a loss of words. They had kept Lancelot as far away from her as possible due to his reactions in her presence. The last time she had seen her closest knight was during the Fourth Holy Grail War, and that had been a moment she never wanted to relive. Now… Now he was here, in her presence again, but in complete sanity of mind from what she could see. It was him… It was really Lancelot.

It brought back fond memories just looking at him. The many battles and feasts of the Round Table where they were merry and united... Toasting to the victories of Gawain, or for Galahad who had returned from his own quest... From the antics of Percival to the considerate actions of Bedivere, just having one of her knights present again made warm memories of Camelot surface in renewed, vivid detail.

Those same memories were the very reason it was so painful to have Camelot collapse before her eyes. She had taken it heavily, and it was only made worse when she saw Lancelot's own, chaotic eyes after Iskandar's reprimanding at the banquet. This had been what she had sowed into their legend… but now, things were looking up again, if only as a torch in the night. He could talk with her now… after everything that's happened, so they may both find closure. It made her happy.

Lancelot looked uncertain as he took a step forward tentatively. "Your majesty, please… You do not nee-"

He was interrupted by the small king sniffling, but a tear didn't fall; She kept her flood of emotions in check well. Before he could react, Arturia had looked up with a small smile gracing her lips as she stared at the greatest of her knights. Lancelot was left speechless as he stared at his King. Diarmuid leaned against the counter and smiled at the sight, with Mashu still observing carefully in case something happened. Roman was tense in case any extreme emotions would cause a relapse, but in all honesty, everyone was aware how paranoid he usually got.

"…I'm glad. It pained me to see my greatest knight in sheer agony that I have caused."

"You were never to blame," the knight began, letting out a long breath. "There's still much I don't understand… Your decisions. Your forgiveness. I never deser-"

"My decision about you and Gwen stands, Sir Lancelot." Arturia interrupted as her smile faded slightly. "You don't need to understand now, but you do not need to apologize to me. I forgive you. I'll always forgive you and Gwen."

"But my king-!"

"Lancelot… If you are to agonize over anything, it is how you may apologize to your fellow knights should they be summoned."

Lancelot paused. He nodded slowly, and she could see the thoughts racing through his mind. Facing Gawain was going to be beyond difficult after what he had done to his brothers, and he would no doubt be her famous knight's hardest obstacle. There was also Mordred to consider, but many more had issues with that knight. Her whole table of heroes had become so fractured… and she wondered if they were all summoned, could they find a way to mend the breaks? How would she even start to try…?

Her knight was just as troubled as she was. "I still do not feel…"

"If you are still troubled by my decision and find yourself unworthy," Arturia began in an authoritative tone. She paused slightly when she met his gaze firmly. In truth, she steeled her voice to reassure herself as much as him. "...then make yourself worthy by serving by my side once more as my greatest knight."

Arturia wished to make things clear. They were on the same side once more, and what better way to redeem himself then to right his wrongs fighting loyally at the king's side for the sake of humanity itself? If he didn't feel he was worthy of redemption, he would become worthy and make things right for himself through action. That could be his new personal mission now that he had clarity of mind once more.

Fou chirped happily with a small sparkle in its eyes. Lancelot's eyes lit up in acknowledgment. She could see the recognition and subtle hope in his eyes. They mixed and waged war against the despair, shame, and guilt within. It would not be a battle won this day, but she'd done what she needed to: She helped reassure him a path exists, and things could improve again.

With a smile, she found herself glad he had accepted the proposition. Lancelot slowly dropped to one knee and bowed his head, closing his eyes as he breathed in swiftly. "King Arthur, greatest of kings…! On my honor, I, Lancelot du Lac, ask to once more serve at your side and prove my loyalty! Let me fight in your name and help shine what has been tarnished! Allow me the honor of being your sword! I shall not put your faith in me to question ever again!"

Arturia's smile grew even more that day. "It is my honor to accept your request. Rise, my faithful knight… but there is one last declaration you must heed..."

Sir Lancelot lifted his head in uncertainty. He found himself facing a regal smile she had never displayed before. "Though I was known as King Arthur… You know my name is Arturia Pendragon. Let it be thus henceforth."

He slowly smiled. "Understood, my king."

Diarmuid chuckled at the scene in front of him as Mashu lightly clapped with Roman. Turning her head slightly, Mashu stared at Gudao who watched the scene and clapped slowly with a distant, almost mourning look in his eyes. Roman also noticed and stopped cherring to look towards their mutual friend with complete curiosity. Slowly, all eyes of the room turned upon Gudao who was shaken from his thoughts upon becoming the new center of attention. It also helped Fou had come up to lick his cheek.

"…Is something wrong, Senpai?" Mashu asked quietly.

"I was just thinking about, um… the future with Lancelot. In battle and so forth. You know," Gudao explained quickly, trying too hard to stay coherent in thought which caused Roman's eyebrow to slowly rise.

"Care to explain?" the orange-haired man asked with some slight amusement at Gudao's sudden lack of composure.

Gudao let out a breath and looked to Lancelot, who returned the gaze with a glint of curiosity, but a shine of steadfast resolve at what his master may say next. Arturia could see it, and she was proud of what she saw. As a knight, even if plagued by lingering guilt, it would be his honor to properly serve his king and his master. His first step on the path to redemption would likely be to follow his master's orders well, and show he is still very much the grea-

"Erm, I was thinking... you can still use the gatling gun, right, Lancelot? I mean..." Chuckles from Mashu and Paracelsus filled the room.

Well… that was certainly not what anyone was expecting.

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"Where are you taking me now?" Arturia asked curiously as she took another bite from the cheese sandwich she shamelessly took from the cafeteria. She was disappointed Emiya had not done anything for lunch, but it was a tiny bump in her increasingly sunny day. Catching up with Lancelot and introducing him to Diarmuid made for time well spent.

The lancer simply turned around and gave her a smile, causing the small blonde to turn to tilt her head slightly. He had been leading her through the hallways again for a few minutes in comfortable silence. Normally she would be fine with starting small talk, but the two remaining sandwiches in her arms demanded her attention. They would not be disappointed as she quickly finished the third one cheerfully, then took a sip from her soda's straw nestled between the sandwiches.

Her attention was snapped away when Diarmuid abruptly stopped in front of a door. She blinked. "You could have said we were going to Jeanne's room."

"I know, but where was the fun in that?" he mused softly as he knocked on the door. "Jeanne?"

The door slid open and Diarmuid swiftly hustled the small king into the room. Jeanne quietly shut the door behind them. Pleasantly pleased, Arturia looked around while taking a bite of a sandwich. Emiya was seated on Jeanne's couch wearing black slacks and a red collared shirt. He had one leg thrown over the other casually with both arms slung across the couch's back. The saint wore an amethyst blouse and stood next to Diarmuid in front of her closet with hands clasped in front of her white skirt. She looked a little uncertain about something.

Yet, nothing was out of place in her friend's room. A single pedestal held Jeanne's flag at an angle with her sword in an adjacent stand. The bookshelf was filled with different novels she had borrowed from Chaldea's library or acquired during singularities. Some picture frames hung by her crucifix and bible shelf on the wall, showcasing Jeanne's favorite moments spent with her many friends. If anything, the room looked a bit too clean.

Instead of being covered in various articles, the lone coffee table in front of Emiya only held its usual centerpiece vase filled with glass flowers of different colors. There wasn't a single item on the maple table or matching set of chairs either. Unless Jeanne and Diarmuid were hiding an unusually messy closet, that meant whatever surprise awaited her was definitely behind her two- "Good grief… Still eating, Saber?"

She turned to the archer who was shooting her an amused at the lone sandwich nestled in her crossed arms like a newborn. He chuckled as Arturia playfully glared at him. "You didn't make me anything, so I had to settle for this!"

"Jeanne was helping me wrap a present last minute."

Arturia blinked and deadpanned. "You mean my present was last minute? Tardiness is the enemy, Shirou!"

He sighed, but his expression turned a touch apologetic. "Please don't twist my words, Saber. You know you're far more important to me than that."

A throat clearing ended the small bickering. Jeanne smiled upon gaining their attention. "When you two are done flirting, we have those presents for you, Arturia."

"We were not-!" They started together before being cut off by Diarmuid and Jeanne laughing as they opened up the closet.

The ruler took out the first present and placed it on the coffee table in front of Emiya. The archer casually got up and took the remaining articles of food from the saber, much to her disappointment, then placed them on the maple table. Jeanne led Arturia towards the couch to sit as she observed the unique shape of the present. It looked like a snowman could be hiding within it based on the shape, but the lack of an obvious carrot nose proved otherwise. The wrapping paper was plain blue with a yellow ribbon around the mid-section.

"This is the offending present," Emiya stated simply as he stood near the coffee table, observing the saber carefully as she carefully took the bow off intact and began unwrapping the present.

She was surprised upon finding that whatever was underneath was very soft. As she took the top of the wrapping off, two rounded fluffy ears sprouted into plain sight. Arturia's mouth slowly opened unconsciously as she removed the rest of the wrapping paper, revealing a tan plushy with key white accents. Two familiar black orbs for eyes stared back at her as she picked it up slowly and felt her smile increase tenfold.

"I thought it would be difficult to obtain, but Gudao managed to help me acquire one… I'm unsure why it was a mystic code."

"Shirou... thank you," Arturia smiled breathlessly as she brought the plush lion to her chest and hugged it gently. Her soft gaze met Emiya's. "Thank you. I appreciate this... "

The man smiled fondly. "Anytime, Saber."

Her smile subsided and a look of uncertainty filled her eyes that no one in the room missed, especially not the Archer. "Is something wrong with my gift?"

The King of Knights blushed lightly. "N-No. It's just... well..."

Arturia held out her hand and closed her eyes, materializing an item as she would her weapon. The eyes of the other three servants widened quickly upon the item in question taking form. Pulling it towards her to join its companion, Arturia now held two stuffed lions that looked practically identical. Emiya's eyes slowly darted from one plush animal to the other as disbelief swam erratically in his eyes. The saber softly smiled with the blush still on her cheeks.

"I had gotten one from Gudao when it first arrived. I'll keep yours safe in my room. Thank you again, Shirou." The older lion disappeared and she hugged the new one once more.

Jeanne smiled while observing her friend before turning towards the red archer with a playful look. "So what makes this little lion so very important that she'd grab it?"

It was rare to see Emiya loose his composure, but to his credit he simply looked away and scratched the back of his head instead of stuttering. "Well... it's special to the both of us. It has meaning. Enough meaning to be a mystic code, it seems."

That was an unbelievable understatement, but Arturia made no mention of it. She merely smiled and thought of her time with the young Shirou Emiya during that war. The archer had all the memories of the boy from that past due to a memorial essence, so that bond remained firm. He was certainly a different person than the archer she dealt with, and she was satisfied with the circumstances that made it possible. At least, she did have that boy from back then to talk to in some form, even if he was older, wiser… and more handsome.

"Uh huh…" Jeanne smiled knowingly, and though the archer's composure remained, Arturia could tell he was squirming uncomfortably within. The lancer chuckled as he stood up and walked to the closet.

The saint turned as Diarmuid brought the next gift out in the form of a small jewelry box. It lacked wrapping paper and was tied with golden string. Arturia eyed the black box as she picked it up, pulling on the string to unravel it. As she lifted the lid, her eyes lit up at the necklace that sparkled underneath. It had a simple silver chain that led to the centerpiece which was properly designed and painted. The blues and gold of a miniature, ornate sword that mimicked Caliburn practically glowed in the light.

"I thought you would like this," Diarmuid stated with a small smile from his seat on the floor. "Found it on a supply run."

"It's wonderful," She stated as she admired the necklace. She carefully undid the band and immediately placed the necklace on, taking great care not to accidentally knock the lion off of its spot on her lap. As she finished, she gently observed the ornament and smiled. "Thanks, Diarmuid."

"It is my honor, King of Knights."

"We'll do Emiya's second present before mine," Jeanne said quickly to earn some curious glances from the other three.

She swiftly went to the closet to pick up another unusually shaped gift. It was apparent the presents were hidden in the closet based on peculiar shapes that might be guessed. The bottom of the item was flat, but had a very cylindrical shape until it reached the top where what appeared to be a handle jutted backwards. On the front was a small, protruding triangle with a silver bow on it. Tilting her head in confusion, Arturia began unwrapping the white paper that concealed it.

Her eyes lit up in curiosity, though not as much as when they eyed the plush lion; Could her smile grow any larger this day? Swiftly tearing through the rest of the paper to elicit chuckles from her friends, Arturia cautiously picked up the blue and white item as her eyes sparkled like stars. Two more black eyes stared back, but this time with an accompanying yellow beak. Emiya chuckled at the instant response as she held the penguin while Jeanne and Diarmuid looked curiously at the item.

"Sorry it's not lion or panther shaped. I figured since you found... accessing its interior to be distasteful, you wouldn't wish to do it to your favorite animal."

"I can make my own shaved ice now!" she exclaimed happily, causing Jeanne to giggle and Diarmuid to laugh. She felt a sense of Déjà vu, like she had seen this before, but she couldn't place it. A gift was a gift, though, but one that could make food was a present that gave for a lifetime.

She placed it down and stared at it with a content smile. With a pleased nod, she hugged the lion plushy once more as Jeanne got up to get the final gift. Without saying a word as the three other servants engaged in idle chatter, Jeanne, showing some hesitance, placed her box shaped present in front of Arturia who stared at the amethyst wrapping. An ornate ribbon wrapped around the unassuming present elegantly, and held a handwritten letter.

Dear Arturia,

Happy Birthday!
I told the boys to write you cards too but they probably forgot!
Or were too busy in Emiya's case!
I hope you enjoy my gift! Maybe it will come in handy someday!

Love your friend,
Jeanne d'Arc

"Marie helped me write it..." Jeanne admitted bashfully with a small flush as she played with her fingers.

"A card. I knew I forgot something," Diarmuid relented, somewhat embarrassed. "You should've reminded us more than once."

Arturia raised an eyebrow as she reread the wording on the last line, and turned to her friend who was currently facing away with a slight blush. The king smiled and began opening the gift in front of her as Diarmuid and Emiya stared at her inquisitively.

"It wasn't that embarrassing, was it?" Emiya asked simply with cross arms and an amused look.

"No... the card isn't," Jeanne stuttered as she looked towards the present. The flush on her cheeks intensified before a determined look graced her eyes. She glanced towards the boys who stared back in confusion. "I request the two of you to please look away! This gift is private!"

Emiya lifted an eyebrow in slight confusion. "Why the secre-?"

"Please!" Jeanne insisted with clenched fists held before her, surprising the trio with her steadfast resolve. The two male servants simply looked to each other and shrugged before turning their bodies away and covering their eyes. Content, Jeanne looked towards her friend and nodded.

Taking the lid off the box, Arturia raised an eyebrow at the extra wrapping paper concealing the article of clothing within. She didn't want to rip the paper, so she picked it up and began turning it in different directions to figure out how to open it. Finding it taped at the back, she quickly undid the adhesive and felt something fall out of the bottom and onto her lap beside the lion. Placing the small packaging down for a moment, she looked for the fallen article….

She felt her eyes widen as Jeanne's flush deepened. "I-I, um… honestly was hoping you'd open mine as just the two of us, Arty, but... the boys insisted we do it as a group."

Arturia stared at the blue, lacy garter that sat on her lap and blushed a bit. Quickly doing the math in her head, she looked up towards the packaging and undid the wrapping paper. Her blush deepened rapidly as she picked up the article of clothing, which was the last thing she expected the Maiden of Orleans to give her. The garter matched a set of royal blue, lacy lingerie perfectly. The set of clothing was very intimate by its design and left nothing to the imagination if worn. A pair of matching stockings and opera gloves sat within the opened wrapping paper.

"J-Jeanne…" Arturia stuttered with her cheeks now as red as a certain archer's polo. Jeanne d'Arc, the often serious and rash ruler, had gifted her lingerie of all things.

Diarmuid held fast to his resolve and ignored his curiosity to look or risk putting his honor as a knight on the line. Unfortunately, Emiya was not a knight, and he took a peek through his fingers and glanced back… an act which was caught by a furiously blushing saint.

"Emiya!" Jeanne practically squeaked as she stood up and glared at the archer. He turned back and covered his peeping eye.

"Sorry! I got curious!"

"Breaking the trust of a lady... For shame, Emiya." The archer just grumbled in response to the lancer's teasing.

Jeanne looked towards her female friend who was still appraising the item in her hands. She honestly couldn't tell if her blush or Arturia's was brighter.

"Marie helped me get it in a past singularity..." Jeanne said bashfully as she continued to eye her friend. To her amusement, she made the sign of the cross. "I-It was her idea, not mine! I honestly didn't know what you'd like that I could get you and… um…"

"I... I didn't know you had this side to you…" Arturia murmured under her breath as she continued to examine the intimate clothing. "Thank you, Jeanne. I, um... will hopefully have the chance to wear it sometime?"

It seems Medea wasn't the only servant being greatly influenced by their personal friends.

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ V ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

"No, no! Sit, Saber! I insist! You've done enough of that for me in the past!"

Arturia sighed as she sat at the couch in the lounge. The glow of the falling snow illuminated her face as softly as the caster who accompanied her. "Irisviel. You were the one always doing the gestures of kindness before the grail war."

"Yet you do it so much for me here! Friendship goes both ways, Arturia, and I am not letting you lift a finger on your birthday in my presence!"

With a sigh, Arturia relented as the Homonculus mother hummed next to her. Clad in the prestigious white dress she had seen so many times, Irisviel quickly poured the two of them tea while they waited for dinner. Her son was busy preparing the food with the help of the staff and fellow cooking servants, while Arturia's friends were helping gather some salon decorations with Marie and her personal salon staff. That left both of them in peace to talk.

Though she was, at first, a different person, Arturia only felt terrible for Irisviel's past and circumstances. She was doomed as a grail vessel, destined to live only a short lifespan with a chosen destiny. As much as the saber had detested her husband and his crude actions, he had admittedly done what he could to ensure her life was happier than it could have been. Illyasviel was the culmination of that idea, though it was the mother's idea to be fair.

She picked up the woman's favorite Darjeeling tea they always had in her castle. With a sip, she confirmed she never lost her touch no matter the timeline. The caster smiled at her friend hopefully. "I hope this day has been better than yesterday?"

"In more ways than I could have imagined," Arturia nodded happily.

"Then it's only right I make it better!" Irisviel chirped as she quickly took out a present from her purse. Arturia blinked in surprise as she carefully placed the cup down on its saucer. She took the small jewelry box curiously.

If she weren't a servant, she wondered if her face would have been sore from all the smiling today. "Thank you, Irisviel. Do you want me to open it now or later?"

"Whenever you wish, Saber," Irisviel giggled as the King of Knights smiled back.

Quietly, Arturia took the white enclosing ribbon off of the golden box. She discarded it gently on the table before opening the lid, and letting her eyes shot wide in surprise. The silver ring bracelet within was ornate in design, and shimmered under the snow-lit light that filtered from the large windows. Its centerpiece, which sat perfectly to draw attention among the glamorous lines, stood out in color and recognition.

Shining in blue and gold glory, was Excalibur, but only partially viewable. It was sheathed in Avalon.

Arturia breathed out gently as she inspected the custom-made jewelry. Irisviel giggled softly. "I'm not the best at making jewelry, but I tried my hand at it… I'm so jealous of Medea's skills."

"It's hard to believe you don't have Item Construction," Arturia smiled. "…It's beautiful, Irisviel. Thank you."

"You're welcome, my knight," Irisviel playfully joked as she hugged the smaller girl. Arturia returned it with one hand, being careful not to drop the bracelet. Upon breaking the hug, she was given the chance to place it down gently.

They had a close bond because of the war's circumstance. Through protecting Irisviel as a decoy master, they had grown close as friends. That had thankfully carried over well to Chaldea, and she would gladly protect the caster once more. This feeling only doubled now that there was a confirmed family connection between her and Emiya, and she was glad their bond had not been awkward. If only Illyasviel could join them now… and maybe even Kiritsugu, for the mother's sake… though she personally would not deal with him more than necessary.

Arturia only wished Irisviel could be as happy as she was this day. She certainly deserved it. With a sudden raise in enthusiasm, Arturia's thoughts were abandoned as Irisviel turned her legs to face her more directly. That was the usual sign that she was interested in talking gossip of some sort, a habit she picked up with Marie and Atalanta. With an amused sigh, Arturia only smiled and picked up her tea to learn of the excited mother's next conversation topic.

"Now, enough about that! Let's talk about that secret relationship I've begun to suspect you have with my adopted son!"

Arturia thankfully did not choke on her tea in surprise. Irisviel only kept smiling eagerly with an inferno of curiosity burning into the saber.

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ VI ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

In Salon de Marie, Arturia blew out the candles to her cake to the orchestra of clapping hands.

As the light of the chandeliers flickered back on, she smiled and nodded towards Emiya and Tamamo who stood on the other side of the table, dressed in a black tuxedo and strapless blue evening dress. The King of Knights had opted to wear the dress Medea had gifted earlier that day, with her brushed hair falling loosely past her shoulders. Taking the knife handed by the archer, she made the first cut into the layered blueberry cake. As she did so, Gudao approached from her left and leaned in between her and Diarmuid.

"Is it safe to assume from that shining smile that today turned out well?" he asked quietly and received a quick nod in return.

"Indeed, Gudao, it was wonderful. It made me forget yesterday," she practically chirped as Emiya handed her the first slice of cake before beginning to divide the rest of it with Tamamo's help.

"Plenty of good gifts worthy of your grace?" Gudao asked, causing Emiya to nearly lose composure cutting the cake. Diarmuid almost choked on the water he was drinking, much to the confusion of Lancelot to his left. Irisviel giggled beside the lancer as Gudao stared around in confusion.

"Yes. The gifts were wonderful," Arturia stated as she looked towards Jeanne as she approached the table in a flattering amethyst gown. "And some gifts were extra unique."

Jeanne flushed as Arturia passed a knowing glance to her, causing Gudao to look between the two perplexed. He shrugged and grinned. "I'm just glad you enjoyed your birthday, Arturia!"

"Thank you, Gudao!"

As Gudao was about to leave, Marie bounded over happily in her red, one shoulder dress and stood next to Jeanne cheerily. "So did you like Jeanne's gift?"

"Marie!" Jeanne started, flush still very much evident on her face. Gudao stopped and turned.

"What? It's her favorite color! I'm sure it will look sexy on her when she wears it for Emiya! I mean, they were an item, right? Maybe they still are when no one's looking? Ohhh, young love!" she grinned as she elbowed her friend. After a moment, the chipper rider looked around and noted, sheepishly, she had probably said that far too loudly.

"Oh my~…" Irisviel giggled with a hand to her lips and a teasing stare at Arturia.

Jeanne's jaw nearly dropped to the floor, as did Emiya's as he lost his composure. Tamamo's ear twitched and her eyes widened in total surprise at the suggestion. Diarmuid practically choked on his water once more as Gudao stared dumbfounded at what Marie had just inferred. Arturia's cheeks were flushed bright red. There was a small clattering of silverware as Lancelot stood up and passed a very level stare towards Emiya, which unified the smorgasbord of reactions into growing curiosity.

"…Mister Emiya, is there something you care to explain between yourself and my king?"

Caught off guard at the potentially veiled threat, Emiya took a step back and held his hands up. "Sir Lancelot. I assure you I would never do anything to Arturia that she does not wan-"

"And what's that supposed to mean?" the knight asked with a playful smirk, enjoying how much he managed to shatter the red archer's usually cool and composed demeanor. His response was tailored to look menacing, but Arturia could tell he was more curious at the plausibility that his King had found someone to relieve her former loneliness.

…and maybe he did feel a little protective over his liege.

"Saber, assistance please!" Emiya yelped out, inwardly cursing at how stupid he suddenly sounded. Some chuckles ran out among the group present, including Lancelot.

The thoughts and laughter soon died out instantly upon recognition of an unusual sound. Gudao stared at the small king next to him as the others nearby fell completely silent upon witnessing the act in front of them. The rest of the room seemed oblivious as they carried on their conversations in the background, but to those present, they were gifted the privilege to witness what some would have described as a miracle.

Arturia, after so many years, was laughing, and it was the sweetest sound.