The next morning was Hell. Falling on the roof had been rough to Daichi. Waking up late for school added to that. Whispers of curses flew while rushing through the morning motions. Bruised but properly dressed, he entered the kitchen, rubbing his aching back and arms. Archer was nowhere to be seen. Daichi opened the door to his room. The bed was clean and tidy. No note on the table nor text message.

Shizuka asked as he took a seat at the table. "You don't look so good. Are you okay?"

Daichi said. "I'll be fine." It felt strange. Being just the two of them alone felt unjustly odd. It had been that way for years. Yet, why?

Shizuka said, leaning towards him. "I know that look. You're worried about something. What's wrong?"

Daichi shrugged off the oddity. "Like I said, it's ok."

"You can tell me about it."

"Let's just eat, breakfast is getting cold." He noticed her hesitation before she dropped the topic. Breakfast started, mostly focus of breakfast was western with some scrambled eggs, beans and bacon. Uncommon menu of the day. Tasty as they were, the morning was dreadfully silent. Nevertheless, it gave him sometime to think.

This secret war is growing dangerous. More so with the introduction of this military kid. Archer had warned as much. A war kept in secret growing dangerous by the day. I can't get her involved. Would now be the best time to talk? A quiver in the stomach. No, it's not right. But if not now, when?

He was interrupted when she asked. "Where's Emiya?" She didn't know either?

"He's outside. He'll be back soon." Probably.

"It's been a few days. How long will he be staying? It wouldn't take long to find a place." Archer did look up a few places in the little spare time they had to work on the cover story. It was impossible to rent since Archer had no documents. No identity, citizenship, money. Nothing. Daichi had asked on his plans during small talk but Archer had not responded much regarding that topic.

Daichi continued the lie. "They're doing the final negotiations. He should be leaving soon."

"You're not telling the truth."

Words hammered into him. "What makes you say that?"

"You always look away for an instant before lying. Don't say you're not. You're doing it again." Darn, when he thought about it, he could feel it twitch. "Why do you need to lie Daichi?"

His chest tightened, unable to answer. "I'm sorry."

"The way you're going about it isn't right. He's not a good man. I can feel it." She stood up and placed her plate into the sink. "I don't know what's going on but this isn't normal." Turning around, she grabbed her bag and walked towards the door. "I'll give you some time to think about it. See you later after school."

Daichi watched her leave. The door closed, letting go his sigh. This isn't the right way to go about it. A quick clean up, he grabbed his bag and bolted for the door. First off today, just get school over done and dealt with. One problem at a time.

On the way to school, he made a call to Archer. Arrange a meet up later, talk to him about the kid and get some answers. From there, talk to Kazuko, brainstorm a little and move on. The call answered. "Archer, we need to talk." Silence before the call ended abruptly. What?

School had been a crawl. Daichi managed to pass the information over to Kazuko to make the search. The other problems had been growing like weeds. Shizuka was keeping away, in such way that it was noticed even by their classmates. He had no excuse to give them and let it be. The bigger issue had been Archer. The Counter Guardian had not been answering calls on the cell phone ever since that morning. The sense of unease in the gut grew as lunch time approached.

What happened? The phone definitely had signal, the call connecting correctly. Afterwards they had been rejected instantly. Was he intentionally being ignored? During lunch time, he made a few more calls to the same result. Dozen calls, six text messages and no reply to any of them. Lunch time ended and he had to return to the classroom. Sitting through the math lesson, Daichi concluded as his fist tightened around the phone.

Archer had intentionally broken off contact with him. Going out there on his own again. To disappear without saying good bye? As much as an arse that Archer could be, he should have the dignity and courtesy to say a simple farewell. Even a damn message on the paper would be enough for a start! Frustration ate at his day. Daichi grew tired of the annoying pest. He hissed curses before reigning it in. Was there a meaning to this?

Maybe its the right thing to do. Let it go. Walk away, let it all end. Simple as that, back to a normal life and-. He stalled. Something wasn't right. Did Archer intend to make him angry and so walk away? Following that sarcasm he carries like the damn cloak, it must have been intended. There was a reason Archer went this way. Why? What was the purpose? Why, why, why?

It's pointless to think about it. Sitting around isn't going to get him the answers. He must find Archer. The next question, how? Daichi checked the clock. Five minutes past three in the afternoon. Archer had a head start for at least nine hours. Is he still in Tokyo? How could Daichi catch up to a man that can fly and move at supersonic speeds?

Don't think that you know the world I was from or my history that you would understand exactly who I am

Yes, I don't know everything about you but I know enough to understand you. First, I need to know what is his plan. He should still be here in Tokyo. No reason to leave Tokyo. Second, he must still be carrying the phone that I bought for him. The phone thatDaichi had all the registration details. That included the ownership. This might just work. He activated the lost phone mode. The lost phone should activate its GPS without inhibiting the operation of the phone. A few other clicks and the results were rewarded.

Mikawashima. That is a far place from Ogikubo, reaching into the next ward of Arakawa. Northwest to northeast of Tokyo. A fortune, Archer would have disabled this if he knew. The phones in Nasuverse weren't up to date. This feature probably wasn't known or not incorporated into the story. Daichi could take advantage of this. A glance at GPS records revealed the phone had been active and transmitting its location ever since this morning. Five in the morning. Nobody around to notice. Mikawashima was an hour away. Reaching there wouldn't be difficult. Would Archer disappear by the time I am there?

Archer had been moving all across the city. Daichi checked the log again. Archer was methodological, moving at specific intervals of approximately two hours. The man would be gone by the time he arrived. Two hours was felt as a reasonable time but with the rise in traffic, it will definitely hinder him. I have to go where he'll go next to be sure on catching him. Where will he find Archer next?

Take a step back Daichi, what is Archer trying to do? Kawasaki Bay, Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Metropolitan, Sunshine City, Mikawashima. Why are these places important? He had been to two places before. Kawasaki bay was where he met Archer for the second time. Tokyo tower was their first stakeout point to find the other for the other three, it wasn't that clear. Kazuko might have a clue. A quick call got answers. "The names didn't really mean anything. Two of them are busy places. That's about it. What are you trying to investigate?"

Best to avoid Kazuko freaking out. "I'll let you know later. Thanks." Daichi ended the call as he moved towards the subway. Basis of the information established, a direction is made.

Metropolitan, Sunshine and Mikawashima are the keys to the question. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku was a two tower building. The government building was popular as a tourist attraction. Similar to the Tokyo tower, it had a round observation deck. The building was a bit bland grey from the last visit he made years ago but it gave a good sight different from the Tokyo tower or Roppongi Hills.

These places meant something to Archer. They are places of value. Why are they valuable? Take another step back and see the bigger picture. What did the Guardian want to do? Archer wanted to find the heroes or the Military Uniformed Kid because of a risk to the world. That is what he is trying to do. Find them and get an answer. A chill went down his spine. Or eliminate them. That's what a Counter Guardian does after all.

The strategy must fit to the available resources which are Magecraft abilities. Third rate Magus at most fronts, specialist in Reinforcement and Projection. How would Archer try to find them? That's it. He squeezed his fists to avoid yelling out like a madman.

Observation posts. Archer would use reinforced sight as an advantage. Setting up a watch post, he could easily check and identify for anyone who stood out of the norm. He could find the other creations this way. That had been his strategy here and in the Holy Grail War, no reason to change it.

I got his method sorted out. Now, where would he go next? Tokyo was a vast place to hide within. He opened the map on his phone and marked each location. Taking a stylus, he drew lines connecting each location. A straight line north from Kawasaki bay before turning northwest towards Metropolitan. The point began to turn northeast before southeast … it clicked.

There was a direction, a plan. Each point on the map formed the path to the next one. The overall shape didn't make sense thus far, a curving straight line. Archer would try to be methodological in the approach. There must be a pattern. What was Kawasaki Bay important for?

Take it from another approach. What would Archer do there? Kawasaki Bay had nothing important. There was no high vantage point in the area. There must be another objective. He never found out what Archer was doing there. Daichi wanted to get a direction on the case, a clue to…Clues.

Archer must have scouted the previous parts for information. He wanted clues to find the heroes. From the results, he started a search using the high vantage points. Scratching Kawasaki bay out of the list, he had found it. A nearly complete circle. Archer was searching the new zones to complete a search grid.

Standing near the station gates, Daichi needed to make a choice. If he notices me, he'll probably know I am tracking him somehow and ditch the phone. He has one chance to make the right guess. Completing the circle, he had the next probable point. He zoomed into the Sumida district. Switching it to the 3D map, he found the place. One of the highest spots in the area.

Tokyo Skytree Station

The Tokyo Skytree was the tallest tower in the metropolis. Emiya stood at the top of its spire, six hundred and thirty four metres high. Nobody would find him here. Reinforced eyes scanned for points of interest. Places, people, oddities. The search since morning had not been fruitful. That woman had disappeared since he returned to Kawasaki bay. She was there because of me.

The number of people in the city was enormous. So many people packed like sardines. It reminded him of London or New York. A click of the tongue. A few hours before the sun sets. Ditching the boy had been a necessity. That woman is strong. The boy could easily become a collateral in the process. Best to cut off contact and save him. He'll need to setup a new place for the night. Fortunately he travelled light, only the clothes on his back and new clothes in the a small pack. Having acquired a better view of the city, he could acquire some money later from the right places. They won't be happy but at least they won't die.

The cell phone in the left pocket vibrated. Another call from the Kid. That boy is troublesome. The phone ended the call automatically. How many times would he try before he gets the idea and gives up? The ignorance game had been intended, meant to draw the boy's patience thin. Wear him out and annoy him to frustration and let go of the task. Movement. Someone was approaching. He glanced down towards the bottom of the spire. A pair of hands climbing the ladder up to the top. You are quite persistent. If you want to talk so much, fine.

The boy took ten minutes to climb up the hundred rungs before reaching the top. Kid swore with deep breaths. Emiya gave him a smug, standing in silence. The boy, getting a modicum of breath said. "Archer."

Emiya gestured behind him. "You're finally here. Enjoyed the scenic route?"

"Where, the, hell, have you been?" Voice like a snake's poison.

A shrug. "Investigating."

"Investigating when you disappear without a word. You don't answer my calls or messages. If it wasn't for third time's the charm, I might not be able to find you." A lie. He's learning to keep his tricks hidden. Unfortunate he was talking to the wrong man.

Emiya gave the bitter truth. "My luck must have been quite bad for you to find me again. However the situation's changed. Your services aren't needed anymore."

Kid glared back at him. "Needed? I'm not some bloody hotel for you. You and I were supposed to work together."

"It's become lethal. It'd be in your best interest to stay out of it."

The boy raised his arms. "Stay out of it? It's too late to stay out of it. I have been committed to this pseudo Holy Grail War. This isn't the time to stay in the sidelines. I can't allow myself to do that."

"Most people would have been glad to stay away. You really are a troublesome kid."

"You screwed me the hell up the first time we met. You twisted my arm not once but twice already. Now you decide to pick up and leave? I'd say I'm missing some payback on that."

"That's quite some guts to say kid."

Kid shot back. "Oh damn straight it is. I've signed up for the journey and you are not going to leave me behind until we get to the end."

To see the boy so dedicated at his goal. Cursing, throwing a tantrum because he got left behind. Emiya…was amused. "Now you are the one coming after me."

Kid paused before breaking into a laugh. "Yes I did."

"You do know that this road is marked with death." Emiya sent a glare of killing intent to him.

Kid stepped back, face growing pale. A deep breath before replying. "Evil wins if the good men do nothing. I made my choice Archer and I'm sticking to it."

Emiya relaxed. The boy passed the test. "Very well. You have your mission and I have mine." A smile as a reward. "Also that's not how you talk to your elders."

Kid returned the smile. "That's not my problem to begin with."

"You're learning kid. We might make an ass out of you."

Daichi dropped onto the bed. The tension of the search exhausted mind and body. I should have just text him to come down instead of climbing all the way up. Emiya chose to continue searching into the night, this time at the Edogawa District. Daichi had spent the evening afterwards trying to mend up with Shizuka via text. It didn't work too well but she'll come tomorrow. He hoped they could make up during breakfast. I need to keep her out of it. He had committed to the secret war. There would be no backing out. What would be the best way to do it?

The phone called for attention. It was a message from Kazuko. Be careful. Eyes are watching. Check the beginning. What did the beginning mean? Daichi placed the phone aside. Kazuko was difficult to comprehend when he intentionally tries to be cryptic. Asking back would probably get nothing useful based from previous experiences. It will take sometime to understand the true meaning. Could be minutes, hours or even days.

The clock read eight as night approached. Right, the next episode is coming soon. He scheduled the Blue-ray player to record the upcoming episode of Monomagia: The Infinite Over Machine. At least he can watch it once the war is over.

The beginning. What is a beginning? He opened the dictionary. Perhaps it could give some interesting insight and entertainment.

Beginning: Consist of the start of something.

The start of what?

Beginning: The time when something begins

It was only days ago when it all began.

Beginning: The act of starting something

It started out only when Kazuko and I talked about…

Daichi got off the bed and grabbed a seat by the computer in his room. The first step, beginning of the search for answers. A few clicks later, suspicions were vindicated. The Internet forums had been quiet. The source that pulled Kazuko's interest was removed. The threads talking about the pictures were deleted. No notice from the moderators or any enquiries about the topic. There wasn't a trace of information.

Someone removed the evidence. This is what Kazuko intended to tell. For such influence to manipulate a public forum, that person must be dangerous. Or is it more than just one? A shelved theory came back to mind. Is the government attempting to stamp it out? It was possible to be their doing. He should -

The phone rang, demanding his stare. A simple melody of flutes. Meant for people he didn't know. A coincidence? He picked it up and read the display. An unfamiliar number. He waited a moment for it to hang up. It didn't.

He answered the call. "Daichi Hideaki here."

"This is Meteora. Is it a bad time to talk?"

A sigh of relief. "It's alright. How's everything?"

"We are doing fine thanks to Marine's hospitality." Who is she? He'll ask that another time.

"Good to hear that you're getting used to it. Why did you call me today?"

"We wanted to discuss with you about Archer."

"What about him?"

"I managed to glance through his history but I find it difficult to comprehend. Can you tell me about him? Like his favourites and interests. I think we should get along and I hope that those topics would be able to guide us towards that direction."

"Jokes and talking for Archer? It would never work especially if you are aiming directly for him. Secondly, I don't have the right to say that. You should be talking to him."

"Oh." Disappointment.

Offer her something. "I understand him enough that Archer will continue to be this way. However he will keep the best in mind of the people's safety in this city. You can count on that."

"That is good to hear. You have my thanks."

He moved onto to the next topic. "How did the Revision Theory go?"

"Unfortunately our attempts at performing a revision have not been successful."

"It's worth a try. There is no smoke without a fire." Daichi said.

"I agree, the fundamental concept should be valid. What remains is the approach or conditions that we must achieve in order to succeed at a revision. Alas, the problem is there is no clear sign to what these conditions are."

"You probably know better about all this than any of us. I'm sure you'll figure it out. You were the brightest librarian in Avalken."

"Your attempt at flattery has been noted." I guess that's a good thing. "We have to go. There's some news we need to investigate right now. We will talk soon." The call ended.

The Revision theory. Archer had been listening intently during the conversation at the diner. If given a choice, would he want to change his world? That is his right. Daichi called Archer to relay the news. The line picked up. "Archer, I've got some news."

"Hold on." Gunshot and the line went dead. What?

Night didn't matter to Emiya. Reinforcement made his eyesight clear as day. He should return soon. It might be a better approach than to search at night. Emiya could continue the search but he need to be careful with pacing. Unlike his experience as a Servant in the Holy Grail War, he couldn't immediately restore his stamina by receiving prana. A rest in the day before resuming in the night would be a safer choice. The others now have a better sense of secrecy. The Military Uniformed kid might not be so keen on that, disrupting the world a step in their goals. The phone rang. Answering it, Daichi said. "Archer, I've got some news."

Killing intent

"Hold on." Emiya spun, Kanshou blocking the bullet from striking his back. Eyes scanned at the nearby corner. "Who are you?" The perpetrator stepped out into the open. Brown hair and a strip of white, glasses and beard. Black coat and a hand with a revolver. Not a local. The gun was of a large calibre, greater lethality. He couldn't assess the man's physique from the bulky coat. Cautious, he must be.

The man introduced. "Blitz Talker, a man set on killing you."

Emiya smirked, tucking the phone away. "She sent you to kill me. What a slave driver."

"Actually, that would be my decision." The middle aged man raised his gun. "Can't leave a hanging thread in this entire mess. We have our reasons to do it."

"Do you think that you have the potential to kill me with that gun?" Blitz fired. Trace on. Bakuya answered the call. Swift strikes blocked the bullets. Fragmented pieces drop to the floor.

Blitz twisted a dial on his wristwatch. The clock whined before its host floated into the air. "It is natural to be confident. Especially for a man that can create weapons out of thin air." So you know who I am. Blitz trained the gun. "I have bested those who had the same confidence."

Emiya charged forward as the pistol fired. Revolver, five to six shots. Twin blades parried each shot with impunity. Reinforcing the ears, he heard. Gun Empty. Throwing the twin swords into the air, he spun onto a knee. The black bow appeared in arms, arrow nocked and ready. Red spears flew rapidly.

The revolver fired five shots. Five arrows fell broken in pieces. Blitz twisted forward, allowing Kanshou and Bakuya to miss and stab into the ground. Emiya said. "To think you can shoot arrows out of the sky, not too bad."

Blitz slot the speed loader into his gun. "You aren't the only one who tried that. They think I'd take the time to reload my gun in a gunfight. I usually do but you aren't the kind to take his time."

Emiya chuckled. "You must be getting old."

"That is true. I am getting too old for this. That doesn't mean I can't kill you." Blitz made a quick draw. Kanshou moved to parry. Instinct screamed. He twisted, the bullet flying past. It struck a lamp post before a purple sphere crushed it into a tin can.

Gravitational bullets. That's new. Emiya returned fire, six arrows to be sure. Blitz fired four shots before dodging the shot. Emiya was in the air as Blitz reached into his coat. A new pair of swords reached out to Blitz. Emiya was sure to hit.

Blitz smirked. Bakuya moved on instinct, blocking the gun from hitting. Then the skies struck. Weight of the world slammed Emiya down into the ground. The concrete cracked from his boots. Gritted teeth, he held on until its effects ended.

Still in the sky, Blitz reloaded the gun. "People think I have only one gun. Another mistake."

"Well met." Emiya traced the longbow. Pulling off all the stops. Pushing prana through Magic Circuits, it hummed. Nocking the bow, he aimed left towards the interloper that just arrived.

Purple haired man walked along the street. He said, wooden sword on shoulder. "Oi, oi. You're all starting a fight without me."

Blitz huffed. "You again." He turned towards Emiya. "Well then, I will be going." Emiya chose to let him fly away. Yuya Mirokuji was the more interesting one.

Yuya spat at the ground. "What an annoying old man. He always runs whenever I find him." He pointed at Emiya with wooden sword. "Interesting skills over there. Want to have a go?"

"Another guy who always like to fight." This man's strength could be important knowledge. Could he be trusted to be left alone? Or kill him to remove the risk. "I had enough interruptions but I think you'll entertain me tonight." The twin blades came to his side.

Yuya scratched his cheek. "Your name is an Archer but you use two swords."

Emiya stepped forward, ready to fight. "I'm surprised you haven't looked me up. I am quite renowned after all." Scanning the wooden sword, Kuronagimaru had no lengthy history to speak. It was a sword, a tool to fight and kill. Coupled with an air burst ability, there wasn't anything it could say about its owner.

Yuya twirled his sword several times. "Don't really care about it. You don't know me either right. Let our swords talk." Emiya caught the tightening grip and they charged simultaneously.

Blades traded their stories. A spark spoke of their history. The next, their strength. Past, present, resilience, skill. The ground cracked and buckled as their strikes were deflected into the ground. Blasts of wind shot by Emiya's ears.

The fight was incomprehensible. Emiya couldn't understand. This man just swings the sword. Yuyadoesn't use his openings, just bluntly attacking with raw firepower. Each counterattack was responded with equal strength. Or are his response times just insane? Emiya reinforced and accelerated his attacks. Yuya's pace kept up with the momentum.

"This is more like it!" Yuya yelled with wide smiles. Emiya jumped back, avoiding the burst of air onto the ground below. Up the ante. Spirit and technique, flawless and firm. Emiya took a step back before throwing his swords at him. Our strength rips the mountains. He formed a new pair into the sky before dashing forward.

Yuya threw air blasts in the approach. Our swords split the water. Each shot, deflected aside. Yuya noticed the flying swords, blocking against them. Our names reach the imperial villa. This is his chance. Kanshou and Bakuya grew their feathers.

Yuya cursed as Emiya raised the Over-edged blades. The two of us cannot hold the heavens together. Yuya was out positioned, back exposed. "Triple-Linked Crane Wings."

"Hangaku!" Swords met metal. Emiya leapt back immediately, growing the distance. Emiya clicked his tongue. The samurai spirit appeared, standing on guard against any attacks.

"Two against one. Can't expect it to be fair." Could he kill the spirit? His arsenal probably has a suitable weapon. Alternative would be overwhelm it with swords while pinning Yuya in place.

Yuya smiled. "Damn…that was good. That almost got me." Yuya lowered his sword as the spirit disappeared.

Emiya dissipated his projections. Someone more friendly than expected. Yuya may be of use. "So, are we done?"

"Ah, this is a good fight. I should find you more next time." Yuya reached for a cigarette. "I guess we're done. Don't want to enjoy everything in one go. Seriously if only that old man would stick around longer."

"Indeed, he'd be a better babysitter."

"Hah, that's a cheeky one there. So who's side are you on?"

"My own side." Emiya left the battlefield.

"Another please." Selesia asked for the third can of beer. The talk with Aki Kikuchihara from the government had left a positive outlook of the situation. They were not alone, help is available. A small celebration was in order. Nothing fancy except for some beer and snacks in the dining room. A short moment to rest and good news.

Marine reached for a cold beer across the table as Meteora nibbled at some potato chips. "Here you go." Marine's home was simple but cosy. The apartment had a few rooms and a balcony but it was enough for Marine since she lived alone.

Meteora said. "This place is different compared to Sota's."

Marine tilted her head. "How so?"

"His home felt a bit more rigid, formal. Here, the essence of youth is slightly stronger." Selesia glanced around. Could she mean the amount of drawings and posters on the walls? There were a few grey versions of her within the mix. She agreed with the librarian's assessment.

"I see. He is still young with parents after all. This place will eventually become something like that I guess."

"Oh, you are in a relationship?" Selesia grinned.

Marine waved her frantic arms. "No, no, no such thing yet. A few guys were interested but nothing happened."

"Envious." Meteora quipped.

Selesia took a sip of beer. "It's been only a few days but I feel homesick."

"Isn't that normal? Matsubara had described Earth-Melia quite well but what is your home like?" Marine asked.

Selesia said. "Home wasn't that special. Yes, it's bigger and warm. The most important part wasn't about the house itself. It was my parents and little sister." I wonder if they're still okay. The Avalon brigade had been making moves towards her hometown. "That old geezer did a good job to describe my world. Maybe even my emotions a little too much."

Marine turned towards the librarian. "What about you Meteora?"

"I was adopted. The library had been home all my life."

Selesia giggled. "No wonder your jokes were so bad."

Meteora pouted. "I still am able to communicate. I do have to admit that there is a lack of certain common processes or social expectations but that does not hinder me from my tasks in the library and the occasional trips to the town or village."

"It's alright." Marine grabbed handed Meteora a beer. "Someone can always learn new things."

Meteora beamed. "That is correct. This world is rich with new experiences that our own world doesn't have. I'm looking forward to trying the blueberry flavour chips the retail store was selling."

"That's right Marine. Don't worry about it. We will help to save this world." Selesia turned towards the balcony. "I'm just worried about what's going on in mine."

Marine gave a thumbs up. "I'm sure you guys will be able to do it quickly. You all might be going home before we even know it."

Assurance felt hollow. "I hope so. I'd really hate to see everything destroyed when I get back." Maybe she can get Matsubara to change a few things around while they were here. Nothing major but a nudge in the right direction.

Meteora gave a nod. "It is fortunate we have a new ally amongst us."

Selesia rubbed her forehead. The thought of it churned her mood down the gutter. "Ally you say. I don't know who was more annoying, Kanoya or Archer." The big robot was another mess for the government to handle. She overheard Kikuchihara and Kanoya talking about storing it in a special box. The boy wasn't agreeable to it. The conclusion wasn't heard of before her attention was taken away by Marine.

Meteora said. "Calm down Selesia."

Selesia faced her and threw her hands up. "Calm down? How can I calm down when I feel the urge to just give his face a fist of mine?" The thought of Archer and his arrogant chatter grit against her idea of a hero. How did that man become a hero in the first place? His creator deserves one in the face too.

Meteora pointed at the drink in her hand. "You're starting to get drunk."

Selesia put it down. "I am not drunk."

"Now that we have help, maybe we can convince him to join us. He is supposed to be a Hero of Justice."

"Hero of Justice, my arse. I can't think of him as one." Justice, him. Impossible.

"You are being prejudicial."

"Whatever, so what are you thinking of doing?"

"Contact Hideaki, attempt negotiation with Archer and bribe him with some conviction of protecting the people."

"Hideaki said that it would be hard to convince him. I can agree with him given how that Archer was behaving. At least Hideaki's more approachable like Sota."

Meteora took another sip of beer. "I studied a little about Archer. It would be hard but it's doable."

Selesia sighed. "I don't know if I even want him on my side."

"What are you suggesting? That you want to kill him?"

Marine jumped to her feet. "Eh, isn't that overdoing it?"

A shake of the head. "No. Just imprisoning him would be enough."

Meteora raised a brow. "That would never work. His abilities are powerful, they should not be underestimated."

"Even if he's strong, when I have Vogelchevalier, I can beat him."

"We aren't looking to defeat him but convince him. Second, Vogelchevalier isn't here."

You don't have to remind me that. She sighed. "Do what you need to do. As long as he doesn't get on my nerves again." She downed her tin can. "I need another drink."

Second morning of hell. One misfortune to wake up late. The second is being so preoccupied with the entire search that he had forgotten of an important task. Shizuka tapped her chopsticks against her bowl of rice. "Stop playing your game. It's time for breakfast already."

Daichi continued tapping commands onto the cell phone. "I'll be done shortly. Just need to clear a bit more of these AP." Clearing off the daily action points was a common ritual of a mobile gamer. Otherwise it would have been a waste since they don't recharge once its full.

"You shouldn't engross yourself into these games. We need to study and all that." She leaned forward. "That guy looks familiar."

"Well, yes sort of." Maybe it wasn't a good idea to bring Archer out for this quest. The other option he had was Robin Hood and wasn't trained to the level needed.

Shizuka took a look at Daichi's room, where the Counter Guardian was changing after a shower. "When is Emiya's moving out?"

I really need to talk to Archer about this. "Are you still nervous about him?"

She turned her face away. "I don't like him. He's up to no good."

Not that far from the truth since he is an Anti Hero. "I don't think thats true. Why do you feel that way?"

"I can't explain it. I can feel it."

"Just to be sure, its not some psychic power right?"

"Dream on. Can you just take my word for it?"

Archer exited the room before he could answer. Since the first day the two met, a cold silence would reign whenever they meet. Archer would be uninterested in breakfast and leave. Archer walked towards the door before stopping. The phone caught his eye. "What is this game?"

Archer, why now? "Fate Grand Order, remember the modelling gig you did a year ago?"

"Yes…now I do."

Daichi turned the phone around toward Shizuka. "Emiya looked good as a model so the game company decided to offer him a part time job. You haven't got a chance to try the game didn't you?"

Emiya shook his head. "No, I haven't. I was always busy out at sea. No time to play any games."

Shizuka said. "Since you're going to be stay in Tokyo, why don't you give it a try? It's part of your hard work." I don't know how she can stay so polite despite hating him so much.

Archer leaned back. You and me, stuck in between a rock and hard place. "Very well." He took a seat.

"Here, I'll show you." Daichi installed the game into Emiya's phone. It took a few minutes to get started before the phone displayed the main login screen of the game. "I'll get you started."

"Let's skip the tutorial first to do your first summon. It's faster to progress the tutorial that way." Archer studied the interface as Daichi tapped a few buttons. "Just press this." The summoning chant begun and completed in a few minutes.

The results was speechless. Daichi blinked a few times. No, he wasn't mistaken. "Wow. I never knew that this was possible." The Church Black keys in a starter summoning roll. Nine of them, a never foreseen scenario.

Archer looked at him. "Not good?"

"That's E-rank luck to you. Damn that Kirei." Daichi flipped through the list to see the bare chested Kirei Kotomine. "Even the last confirmed four star is a Kirei Craft Essence. I'm sorry Archer. I feel you. I really do." A Fate fan would commit suicide from this result.

Shizuka pointed at the lineup. "How bad is it?"

"The biggest impossible failure one can have in this game and he succeeded." Wow, that's smile is so wide. A small boon for you. Lucky Archer is so engrossed on the phone to not notice.

Archer didn't care about the results and took a look at the Servant list. "I am considered a four star Servant? That is surprising."

"You underestimate yourself." Daichi said.

Archer whispered into Daichi's ear. "They consider me on par with the greatest Servants in the Throne of Heroes. What nonsense."

Daichi whispered back. "It's part of the marketing. You're famous after all."

"I don't need it."

"That is something you have to live with."

Shizuka tapped against the rice bowl. "What's with your whispering? We've wasted enough time as it is or we'll be late for school. You wouldn't want to get in trouble don't you?"

"I'll make do somehow." Daichi move to tap another command to his phone. There's more AP to clear.

She raised a finger. "I'll ask your mom to cut your Manga budget."

He paused. "I will survive."

Her fingers spread out. "For four months."

Words flew fast as lightning. "Thank you very much I am very sorry I will do as you ask please forgive me." Hands moved to consume breakfast like a storm. Shizuka raised a brow before sighing. Breakfast began in earnest.

Blitz liked cloudy cool days. The right temperature and brightness to live the day. Sitting within an abandoned chapel, Blitz added lubricant to the cloth before rubbing the pistol gentle and firm. The routine moments give a calm respite in the long days of mystery and hunting. The little candle kept the light right inside the place of prayers.

Treat your weapon like how you treat your lover and it will always work. An old quote in the early days of his career. Daniels will be missed. If only that old chap didn't have to die before his retirement.

He noticed someone approaching from the door. The young heroine snooped inside, wearing a brown school uniform and beret. She would never be able to sneak around if you keep watching your feet. He called out. "Can't anyone leave an old man alone?"

"If it isn't bad, I want to chat." Blitz took a moment to think. The girl had been beaming optimism ever since she got here. The Overlord princess didn't pay much heed to it. Her goal was focused on addressing the cranky knight, this girl didn't need as much attention.

He patted the bench. "Suit yourself. Sit here and don't touch anything." A quick nod, she sat down beside him as he continued his work.

"Mr. Bites, ah."

He replied. "Blitz Talker. You can just call me old man. Easier." He heard the girl's quirk of messing names. To think one can be a superhero when you can't even remember people's names properly. What a world. "What's your name girl?"

"Mamika Kirameki. What are you doing?"

"I am cleaning my partners." He continued to rub the lubricant on his gun. Both guns had been disassembled, arrayed on the bench. The cleaning tools had been easy to procure with his money. An irony that the same Yen would be used two hundred years in the future. My God is such a lazy arse.

The girl leaned forward, watching Blitz dip the cleaning patch into the barrel. "It looks really complicated."

"It is easy once you done it a few times." Countless times in years of service. It had been so long.

Mamika said. "Those guns, they're used to kill aren't they?" He felt the stare. The stares they all love to give. To brand him a murderer. Never to protect others but always to kill.

Blitz chose not to hide the truth. "My world has been difficult. It's not a forgiving place. We kill each other every day to stay alive."

"Couldn't people just talk it through? Make up and everything will be alright?"

"There is no such thing. Not everyone wants to get along. They all have their own goals and they will destroy anything in their way of it. Your world is optimistic, a joy from your creator. People want it to happen. A happy ending for everyone. My God however doesn't have such ideas."

"Can't you talk to your God, to make it a better place?"

"My God would never change it even if I ask for it. However, I can tell that this world is similar to mine. My world would have been closer to the truth."

Mamika tilted her head. "I don't understand."

He gave a pat on her head. "You'll do once you're old enough." It just felt right. "Get going or that knight will get cranky. She wouldn't like me to be talking to you anyway."

Mamika stood up. "I don't think you are a bad guy despite what the Aliceteros say."

Another slip of the tongue. Might be interesting to see what she can cook up. That woman would never hear the end of it. "Good and bad are only two sides of a coin." Mamika left. Now he can finish up the work in peace and quiet.

"You are quite a father figure." Blitz leaned over his shoulder to see the Overlord Princess.

"Can't leave an old man to do his business."

Overlord Princess stepped forward, seeing his work. "You treat her like your daughter."

Blitz finished the final touches for his first gun. "She would have been a good elder sister for Erina. Naive but hopeful. Kids need those. You however wouldn't pass."

She chuckled. "You fought with Shirou Emiya."

Blitz hands worked to reassemble the gun. "It's not a problem. I like less hassles to deal with later."

"I had hopes he would join us. The Gods have betrayed him very painfully. A pity." You look like the one who needs it the most.

"You may be all mighty but are you going to do anything about him?"

"I'll deal with him." She took a seat. "How is your search going?"

"Such kindness. I am very surprised. Thank you very much." Blitz aimed the assembled weapon at the wall. A pull of the trigger and it responded with an empty click.

"I wouldn't care less as long as you continue to disrupt the world. If my hands weren't tied, I'd do it myself."

Blitz started to work on his second gun. "Certainly we are your goons in the big picture. Unfortunately one can only hope for the leader to be more courteous to those under you. As for your question, I still haven't found it."

"Courteous? What a joke." She must have liked it. "Here are your instructions. Another creation had appeared in the city. Alicetaria and Mamika is aware about it and they'll find the creation. Join them." A search mission, the most troublesome one. "I bid you good fortune." She vanished in a hue of blue. Finally, some peace and quiet. With the cloth, he continued to clean. The door slammed open with Alicetaria in full armour. Damn it.

School finished without a hitch. Archer was busy investigating the other locations during school hours. School over, Daichi would be able to pitch in and give a hand. Kazuko had not been able to get any information thus far about the Military Uniformed Kid. The lack of answers had spurned his friend into investigating further. He really needs to take care of that obsession. The cell phone rang. Daichi frowned at the unrecognised number. It could be the others. He answered it.

The voice was female, unfamiliar. "Hello, is this Mr. Daichi Hideaki?"

Daichi replied. "Yes, who is this?" Blood froze. Wait, this doesn't-

"I am Aki Kikuchihara, General Coordination Officer of the Special Situations Countermeasures Council. We would like to meet with you and Mr. Archer."

Alarm pumped into his chest. Curses, how did they found out about me? "How did you get this number?"

"Ms. Meteora informed us to contact you."

Better, still not to the plan. How did they find Meteora and the others? What happened? What is the best action? "Fine. I'll let you know where to meet us. Call back in five minutes." He would be alone today since Shizuka had club activities today. Daichi walked towards the train station, eyes sharp for anything suspicious.

Eyes circling about, he called Archer. It picked up within the third ring. "Archer, the government is aware about us. They want us to meet them."

"I don't trust them." Archer's voice was dry. Not too pleased either.

"So do I but we need to handle them. You know them. They won't take no for an answer. I need to reply them with a location in five minutes."

"It has to be done. Choose a place. A large wide open space. Trees would help. You need to be able to get there at least half an hour early from them. I'll form a plan and update you." The call ended. Daichi opened the map and started looking. Four minutes to find a place. He didn't want to be too far nor too near. A big place was hard to find. More so to be wide open and with trees. Add a thirty minute clock. The traffic would be starting to grow. Train would be the fastest way to get there. The list narrowed to one choice.

The phone rang on the five minute mark. He answered after confirming it was Kikuchihara. "Meet us at the Shinjuku Park in one hour. Clearing near the tea house. Bring Ms. Meteora along. Just the two of you." He entered the train station while making another call. "Archer, I've set the place."

"Archer, do you see them?" Daichi asked, leaning against the wall of a shed. It has been a year since he had visited Shinjuku Park. He had been there half an hour earlier keeping an eye from around the corner. Beside the tea house was a pond and a small open field. Trees surrounded the area, providing comfortable shelter against the hot sun. The target area, the field was public and easy to see as people travelled across.

"I see them. They're coming." Archer was perched in a rooftop somewhere. "All the entrances are guarded. There are four cars nearby with her goons. You won't be able to escape them yourself."

Hopefully I don't need to. "Is Meteora there?"

"Following the woman. Unarmed, not in distress." Good to know. Daichi peeked, catching sight of the group. Two of them were walking. The first woman was in a suit. It should be Aki Kikuchihara. The other visitors gave a quick glance at Meteora's odd attire before turning away. The crowd was dispersing away from the field, leaving it empty except the two of them. Open for his invitation.

Let's see what we can make do from this. "Alright, I'll go in and talk to them. If things go bad, try not to hurt them." No response as the call ended. Daichi left the corner.

The woman noticed his arrival. Meteora gave a small wave. Daichi nodded and stopped five metres away from those two. Close to talk, far to be safe. "My name is Aki Kikuchihara, pleased to meet you."

Daichi bowed. Formality needed to be followed. "It is a pleasure. What's your business with me?"

"We would like to talk to you and Mr. Archer. I don't see him here."

"Don't worry about him. What would you like to talk about?"

"I am a part of the Special Situations Countermeasures Council. We are organised to handle this special anomaly that you are currently involved. We want to ask for your cooperation."

"If you wanted our cooperation, couldn't you have just said so in the first place?"

"There was a problem in the past. We'd prefer to be more civil and talk directly in a proper manner." He noticed Meteora turning away with red cheeks. Was she embarrassed?

Interesting observation. What would Archer ask in this situation? "If you want us to cooperate, what's in it for us?"

"You will be rewarded for your service. Likewise we want to ensure that Meteora and other creations have their proper rights as human beings."

That wasn't a bad idea. Archer would be able to live a proper life after all this mess. Be like Archer, trust nothing. He tried what the Counter Guardian would do. "That's not the only thing. What else do you have in mind?"

Kikuchihara widened her brows. She mustn't expect that from him. "That is what we have in mind."

"Are you sure?" Meteora raised a brow. Was he asking the right questions?

"Yes, I am sure of it. Can we have a word with Mr. Archer?" She's confident. Is that a truth?

"Very well." Daichi reached for his phone and dialled. "Archer."

"Put it on loudspeaker." His voice remained clear. "I am listening."

" ."

"I know who you are, don't waste time introducing yourself. Tell me what you want."

"We'd like you to come with us and cooperate in fixing this anomaly that is happening to this world."

"How would we do that?"

"We have arranged for accommodations and necessities for your long term stay. You would come with us and your rights properly addressed."

"Afterwards?"

"That has yet to be decided."

"Why are you unsure?"

"Because we are still planning the best approach to handle the matter."

"I see." A pause. "To hell with that. I'm not interested."

Kikuchihara said. "I am afraid it is not a choice."

Archer said. "Is that a threat?" A warning tingled down the spine.

"It is not a threat but a statement. We need you to come with us for your safety. Likewise for Hideaki's safety."

The tingle was growing. "For ours or yours?"

Meteora suggested. "Archer, it's better for us to cooperate."

"Cooperation by following you without clear agendas in mind. I don't buy it."

Kikuchihara explained. "There is a risk that the others would hunt you down. Bystanders could be hurt in the process. We want to limit that risk and face it together."

"I had that once already."

"All the more reason to-."

"I rather take my chances."

"Mr. Archer, I am sorry but I cannot let this be." Daichi felt a jump. They would be coming for him. Archer's reply was swift, coming from above. A barrage of arrows cracked into the ground between them, drawing a line. Upon impact, they faded but the scars they left behind remained. A warning.

"Step back." Daichi warned as he moved backwards. Archer should be coming now. "We're going our own way. We won't hurt anyone unless they forced us to. I suggest you don't push the issue for now."

Kikuchihara looked disturbed for the time being. She paused before answering. "I will listen to your words for now. However, I hope that we can talk further into an acceptable compromise."

Daichi couldn't see Archer yet. Eyes scanning across the buildings before catching him. "Can you promise me to leave us be?"

"I cannot guarantee that."

Daichi felt their eyes drill into his. "You know where we live but be forewarned if you try anything. We won't take it lightly especially since you are the good guys." Archer landed behind him. "If you want to talk more, you have my number. Let's go." Carried over the shoulders, they shot into the air.

They darted in between the buildings, out of sight. Archer said."You are scared."

"It's… not often that you have possibly someone who might try to arrest and throw you in jail."

"In jail, that is optimistic. There were people who might have shot you." Daichi blinked. "Two of them actually. Snipers at the both ends of the block."

Daichi swore before continuing. "Screw your eyesight. What do we do next?"

"We'll go to your home first. We need to prepare a few things there." Archer noticed his stare. "It's not a bomb. Don't worry about that. Anyhow, Good work. You asked the right questions."

"Another praise. Ha Ha, I'm really lucky."

"I should just drop you here."

Author's Notes: As scheduled, here's another Chapter. Thanks for your support and hope you continue to enjoy this story. There'll be a little less experimenting in the later chapters I think. I'm getting closer to something I'm comfortable with while fixing off the SPAG errors that I perceive (Yes, SPAG is my bane)

It'll be 4 week standard waiting time as usual. Just to give you a bit of a cookie, here's a good buffer of chapters so you won't suffer any delays but I remain dissatisfied to a degree. Also future chapters will remain around this size. I'm also finding difficulty in balancing the level of lore due to the scope. Meantime I am also trying to be more friendly to readers who are not familiar with the lore on either end while not making it boring for either.

Your suggestions are welcomed and will be noted. I'm a bit scared of the expectations (sorry, that's my nature) but please provide constructive reviews and I'll see to use them to improve.

Regards

MarksmanKNG