Chapter 11: Swallow Wings

Sota felt the poisonous tension bleed out from his wrist. Sagging weight on his shoulders were lifted. Newfound strength within his hands and hope in his heart. Meteora stood in the centre of the room and explained. "Revision is the key for us to empower us to face off against Altair."

"That's optimistic. However, what is the methodology that you are proposing?" Eyes turned towards Archer. "Do you have in mind to strengthen our native abilities that can compete or give us specialised ones to counter whatever she can throw at us?"

"For the time being, it would not be practical to create specialised counters considering Altair's repertoire of abilities besides launching physical attacks."

"That's right. She changed my sword into a flower." Selesia chipped in.

Kanoya raised a hand. "She made a copy of me."

"That doesn't include the transmutation, teleportation and flight." Archer turned towards the pilot. "Does your machine have a black box recorder?" The young man nodded. "Can you extract the data? That'll give us some material to study." The pilot nodded again before Selesia complained.

"How many special moves does she have anyway?"

Nakanogane placed a laptop onto the table. "About that, I have an idea. Take a look at this." Several videos were played in sequence.

A short battle of Altair against a number of thugs. A strike of her violin before they turned to roses. A musical play with said girl as its lead musician. Small puppets formed alongside, each an identical character forming a cast of assistants.

"Those are the same abilities we've seen." Yuya said. "Since Altair's creator is dead, does this imply how she got them?"

Nakanogane said. "You are correct. These aren't videos that Setsuna Shimazaki made. Someone else inspired by her works made them. All of them are secondary creations of Altair."

"Fanfiction." Hideaki said off beat. "That's a horrible opponent to beat."

Sota felt a growing burn inside. Meteora nodded and said. "She updates her powers through secondary creations from other people. Someone makes a story about her and it is added to her power. It is quite formidable."

"Can we get these people to stop?" Selesia asked.

Nakanogane puckered his lip. "Asking them isn't going to be easy. These people in contrast to us create them for free. It's a hobby for them and more important detail is the numbers. Depending on the fandom, there could be thousands or even dozens of thousands of people creating these works out there. Someone tried a cease and desist once but it didn't work well."

Matsubara shook his head. "In other words, it's impossible to restrain her powers from that point of view."

Hideaki spoke up. "Something doesn't add up. If Altair gains her powers from fanfiction, why are you all limited to your current powers?"

"What do you mean when you say limited?" Meteora enquired.

"If Altair is able to get her powers from fan creations, it should be the same case for you all, there are similar fan creations about every one of you. It would've been more noticeable for older characters like Archer who existed for more than a decade."

Nakanogane offered an answer. "I think it's because there is a form of conflict. Popular characters have a defined limit from their original stories. For a character like Altair, she's more flexible since she wasn't bound to any."

Suruga added to it. "A clash between canon and a fan-based lore. The bigger the story, a higher level of acceptance may be needed for it to work."

"That makes sense."

Meteora's eyes were worrisome. "Given the case, her powers will continue to expand in an infinite manner unlike ours. This is a large danger. However, as of now Altair can't use them freely." Her eyes offered a glimpse of hope. "The restoration power of the world is probably still large enough to throw Altair out of this world if she tried to use her powers carelessly. That was the only reason she held back."

"If that's the case, then we'll be able to take advantage of it. Make us stronger so that we can smack her down real good. That is just my thing." Mirokji's smile was predatory.

Archer stepped forward. "There is a problem to this plan. The world's ability to restore the conditions is growing weaker at a significant rate. It would not be able to absorb too many conflicts, more so when our abilities are strengthened."

"Forcing Altair to use more of her abilities would be like a double-edged sword." Selesia clicked her tongue. "It feels like we would be on the clock if that's the case."

Sota understood the predicament. "Kill her before we destroy the world ourselves." That had a bad taste to his tongue.

Matsubara raised a finger. "What if we had the fight somewhere else? Like a virtual world where you all can fight to heart's content." The others liked the idea, especially Kanoya.

"However, we'll be removing Altair's restraints that way. She's already difficult as it is," Archer said.

Kanoya gave a thumb up. "We just have to be stronger than her until that didn't matter. The sky's the limit isn't it?"

Nakanogane chuckled. "Not exactly but we'll figure something out."

Hideaki nodded. "Besides, we have another ally on our side. Come out Saber." Blue sparkles rained down. Sota was amazed to see a man standing in the middle of the room beside them. The long hair that reaches down to his back. The armour that practically gleamed in the room. He recognised the man.

The man pressed a hand to his chest as teal eyes met each person in turn. "I am Siegfried of Servant Saber. It is a pleasure to meet you all." Wow, a Servant for real.

"Woah, where the heck did you appear out of the blue?" Yuya clapped.

Saber turned. "This is one of the few abilities I have as a Heroic Spirit."

Kanoya jumped towards the warrior. "That's cool! Can you teach me that?"

"Sorry but that's something that can't be taught."

"Nevertheless." Archer interjected. "If we have the numbers and the strength, the battle could be turned to our favour but I doubt it. She is not a fool and we need measures to avoid destroying the world ourselves. An alternative would serve better."

"What are you proposing?" Meteora asked.

"A war of attrition in this world. I advise in putting time to reinforce this reality while taking the offensive. With Altair out of the picture for now, we can push the numerical advantage and defeat the rest of her troops. Altair cannot achieve anything without them."

Meteora disagreed. "That will create more collisions between the worlds. The world's restoration ability is strong but it has been pushed to the breaking point once. I do not wish for it to happen again." Sota sided with that idea. The world was at stake. Making the world become worse didn't sound like a good idea.

"There won't be such luxury to prepare a battlefield. Wars aren't won by defending either." The others had pessimistic gazes. "We attack. Don't let them recover. Sacrifice a little of cohesion now to avoid greater disruptions later on by Altair. Altair cannot enact any plans if she keeps being threatened of being shunned out of the world. Her goons may be heroes but they are still human. They would be easier to handle when exhausted."

"That may be true but Altair has not been doing much directly." Selesia raised a valid point.

"Better reason to contain her forces from having such freedom. Once we have the countermeasures in place, we can go all out to defeat Altair. Second, we have an important advantage in this world, resources." Archer turned towards the Director. "Do you have any form of control of the JSDF?"

"I have some authority to request for their support but no actual control over them." Kikuchihara said.

"Better than nothing. JSDF and security agencies will be able to provide us with valued Intel and manpower. Strike teams and guerrilla tactics would be able to create opportunities for us to take them down."

The director shook her head. "You'd be risking their lives. We already lost men and cannot afford any more." The loss of the helicopters was a strong reminder. Against such odds, can the JSDF even contend against them?

"A soldier's job is always risky. This time, they're doing it to save the world. I'd say it's worth it and they'd believe the same."

"Oi, aren't you rather taking their lives a little too easy?" Yuya raised a brow. "They'll be doing some good but that doesn't mean you can consider them disposable."

Archer shook his head. "I'm not. They are valuable and that is why we will be doing our part of the fighting."

"Who else precisely are you planning to send after them? What if Altair appears during then?"

"You, Saber, Selesia and I. I'm open to alternatives. If Altair appears, we withdraw. We'd achieve our objective, exhausting them in the meantime."

Kanoya sighed. "I definitely won't be out there. Still wouldn't it be tiring us out in the process?"

"The point is not to fight them but rather to keep them on edge. We have the opportunity to rest, they don't."

Selesia pointed out. "You make it so simple as though we could just withdraw whenever we wanted. Altair wouldn't let us be that easily."

"A notable risk but worth the reward of shutting her away for good."

Meteora began to scribble on the air with a finger. Three blue words were written. Creator, Creation, World. "The survival of this world is more important above anything else. Even if we have to face a stronger Altair, I believe it is necessary and a safer option than yours Archer."

Glowing text faded. "We maximise our powers through revision and create an elite team that can defeat Altair. A new world will be created to suppress any influence from affecting the real world. We defeat Altair and get it accepted by readers to solidify the result."

"What do we need to get that idea started?" Yuya asked.

"A plot and setting are needed to create a crossover from all the stories. Without it, there will be no basis for acceptance," Suruga said.

"Before that, we need to sort out the publishing rights of each of the stories and get the publishers to work together. We can't get anything done without their support." Nakanogane added.

Matsubara agreed with his fellow Creator. "Yeah, we'll need teams of writers, editors and the support of the Public Relations Department."

"That's right. All three elements need acceptance from the viewers to form the foundation. I surmise that a big and grand event can create them in one complete sweep." Meteora said.

Matsubara frowned. "It's a battle to decide the fate of the world and we're going to make a show of it? It's not even funny."

"It started with a story then we have to end it with a story too, right?" Yuya replied. Sota noticed the reactions from the others. More enthusiastic in contrast to an all-out war. Marine shared the same concern in her eyes.

"We don't have the time for a plan of such scale." Archer reminded. "Besides there is no reason for Altair to follow us into the obvious excuse of a trap."

"That is a correct truth. Altair does not have a reason to follow us, except her pride. She believes that as an omnipotent person, nothing is above her stature. Such a challenge would not be ignored."

"That is a lot of wishful thinking." Yuya scratched his chin. "Sota, do you think that's possible?" Sota blinked. Why are they turning to him? "You probably know her best amongst all of us at the moment."

Sota contemplated for a moment. Setsuna Shimazki's final wish. He nodded. "I think it's worth a shot."

"Meteora, how much time do we have?" Kikuchihara asked.

"To be honest, I do not know. It is uncertain if new Creations are going to appear or what Altair is going to do to destroy the pillar of the world. Depending on the factors, our time limit will inevitably change." Meteora answered.

"But still we don't have time to waste." Selesia said.

Kikuchihara estimated. "No matter how much we hurry, it's going to take at least three months. There will be many preparations required for such an event. Likewise, Matsubara and the others will need to create the story world."

Nakanogane rubbed his chin. "Three months. That's real tight considering the needed work and support for something of that scale."

Meteora nodded. "I understand. Kikuchihara, we will need you and the government's help to accelerate this pln."

Kikuchihara smiled. "The Government can organise the event but they never went well. Are you going to entrust me with it with the destruction of the world at stake?"

"Yes, saving the world is no small task. We cannot squander on the idea." Meteora said.

"A crossover for each of our stories while adding new powers in the process. Building another world to match the setting. That's going to need some thinking." Matsubara said.

"Given the restrictions at hand, let us set the plan for completion in six months. There is only one chance at this and we should not waste it"

Archer sighed. "Three months is far too long and we're going for six? I'd say this idea is difficult to bite."

"People would be hurt if we follow your plan Archer. Luck is on our side for now but it won't stay with us forever," Selesia said.

Saber spoke his mind with a nod. "I agree with Archer. War should be brief to minimise the damage. Otherwise there will be greater casualties over time."

"This world's safety is paramount. We don't have a right to destroy it."

"I disagree. This world is already involved. There's no turning back."

Sota watched as teal met blue in stern gazes. The thought of war was frightening. Bloody battles like yesterday would happen once again.

Kikuchihara said. "Everyone, enough. There's enough points on both sides of the argument. I'll propose to the Parliament both options and get their opinion. In the meantime, nobody is to go after Altair until I give the go ahead." That slammed the topic shut, for the time being.

Emiya settled back against a sofa. A free hand projected Kanshou. Metal sheen glinted as per its history. No sense of alteration or corruption within. Luck was with him. Alter was an unknown factor. At this point, he was lacking information on his opposite and that was a dangerous risk.

The door knocked. Maybe he wasn't that lucky. No privacy even in a dedicated room. He allowed entry and Meteora entered. The sage had returned to her common robes instead of the hospital gown. "Good morning Archer. How are your wounds?"

"It'll be fine. You should be worried more for your good friend."

"Selesia is recovering well. I've implemented recovery magic to accelerate the process to fit hopefully within a week."

"That is convenient." Long history of missions without such support had grown him to survive without such assets. Those abilities though when available was a godsend.

"Unfortunately, one ward can be active at any time. Based on my presumption, you wouldn't be keen on spending a week together in the same room."

"You are correct. I rather go to Hell than stay with that woman. Enough beating around the bush, why are you here?"

"First, I've heard that you used your ultimate ability." Meteora said.

"Yes, I did. Point being?"

"Tell me everything that happened during that battle." Emiya chose to oblige. The first part was arriving and meeting Alter. The story carried on to how the kid managed to get his hand skewered and a battle to survive. Said Kid decides to be an idiot twice and inform him of the dire situation. Unlimited Blade Works was worth the risk.

"Upon using my Noble Phantasm, we managed to summon Saber and end the battle." That was enough of a story. What was she after? "Now then, why are you interested?"

"I am concerned on how much disruption your ability can create on the real world."

"Unfortunately, I cannot tell you a precise answer. However, your concern is valid. I'd prefer not to use it either if possible."

"I would like to experiment to see the level of disruption but the risk is too great." Meteora said. "Yes, I should look into that." Probably her own thoughts within.

"Is that all you want to know?" Emiya offered. Being stuck here recovering for a day was a safer option considering risks of assassination but it meant that he wasn't useful. Maybe the girl can do something useful in the meantime.

"Second topic. I am concerned on your proposed approach."

"There are many choices but the best ones aren't always well liked."

"Does the end justify the means taken to achieve them?"

"Yes and no. Sacrifice can be necessary to avoid greater loss than a safer path."

"What of the consequences if the idea does not succeed?"

"You won't be around to see it."

She closed her eyes for a moment. Greek Philosophers tended to do that. A strange coincidence for a sage. Her eyes opened on a lighter note. "That is a sufficient answer to think about. I would like to know more about you but I believe this isn't the right time."

"By all means, don't ask me anything about my past. They are nothing of value."

"Perhaps, I can ask this. Is Hideaki feeling better now?"

"The Kid? Not my problem."

"From my understanding, he is under your charge."

"Associate, not babysitter. Again, what is the point of the topic?"

"I understand that Hideaki may have some issues with Sota and would like to mediate on that. As such, I was thinking of using your influence to help."

"Whatever between those two aren't my business. You should talk to the kid himself."

"Very well. Good day to you then. It has been an insightful discussion." Meteora left the room. Now Emiya can spend some time thinking on fighting another Faker. The door opened. "By any change would you like some takoyaki?" Girl, your social context is completely out of the loop.

Two days and it felt miserable. So much to do and yet decreed under orders by the local doctor. Ignoring it would been the preferred choice but he needed to get under the Director's good graces. JSDF assets are vital to the plan. Although it wasn't breaking the rules if nobody noticed he was missing for a while.

Emiya let his mind wander under the warmth of the afternoon sun. Reminiscence of the old days and its important lesson. Fighting in a war against injustice in the old days wasn't as straightforward as the youthful self once thought. A few years to understand how information is power and how to harness every available asset. Servant Saber was making preparations on his behalf for a brief tour of the future battlefield. A valiant warrior but not acquainted with the modern times. Mundane but necessary to utilise the hero at optimal condition.

The bright sun was great to the arm which had been placed in an orthopaedic cast and finally removed. Every bit of time is precious so that preparations can be made. Gut feeling told him it wouldn't be straightforward, if this nemesis is similar in mind.

A familiar presence was approaching behind him. Emiya sighed. "Must I be interrupted every now and then? Especially by a woman like you?"

Selesia Upitiria sighed. "Give me a break. Climbing up here was a chore." Tenacious recovery speed for a few days considering the severity of such wounds.

Emiya couldn't be bothered to turn around. "Of course. So, what's today's menu going to be? That I am a bad guy and I should be sent to the deepest depths of Hell? Maybe you can try the 'I am so evil I will kill anything to get what I want.'"

"Cut the crap. Honestly, you're too snarky for your own good. Everything that you've been hiding about, it's about Sota. Isn't it?"

"No. That boy wasn't worth any thought. If you'd like to, you can put it as evil man seeks to abuse a young boy. That'll bring the headlines."

"You're lying. You two knew about Altair before when Sota was the only one who should have known. You two were trying to protect him."

"Bravo, bravo. Would you like me to tell you that it is 'Elementary my dear Watson'? Again, there is no benefit to do so."

"You may be an arse but not a cruel man. Not when you have a choice. Going about this 'time sensitive information' and all that was an excuse to work things out."

"Selesia Upitiria, I will never understand you. First you rattle me off like I'm a the most horrible demon in the world. Now you turn things around as though I'm some sort of a hero. Which one are you following or is that a womanly kind of thing?"

Selesia chuckled. "There you go again with your rambles. A hero? That's farfetched to reach there yet. You're nothing close to the others that I know. However, I… I will accept it this once. A clean slate from now on."

"Believe what you like. That means nothing to me."

"It might not be to you. But, it does for me, Archer." Emiya heard her steps back down the stairs with the occasional curse.

Emiya took a deep breath. Women, he'll never understand them. Maybe he should've got himself some advice from Lord El-Melloi II in the old days. Rin was just as troublesome but this girl is on another side of the spectrum. Good grief.

A scent of copper wafted across his nose. Right on cue. Saber appeared from spirit form. "Sorry for the delay. I am now ready." The man managed to get himself some basic clothes from the nearby store. A simple black shirt and pants allowed to be inconspicuous when they are in public. The Guardian gave a nod towards the hero and they were off.

Alicetaria February stared as the winds breezed gently in a red sunset. Hair plastered to forehead by sweat and grim. Hunger growled within her abdomen with muscles of the flesh complaining equally from rigorous training.

It's been three days since the battle. She was not alone in this war but what was normally a happy girl is now gaping emptiness. The fox had vanished afterwards. The truth hurts when she had time to think. The fox lied and the librarian wasn't the killer. The girl was deceptive yet she could hardly find fault to that girl. A trickster in nature, Alicetaria had only fell into the whims of a girl obsessed with fun.

No, I'd probably chosen to fall into it. Who else could she blame? Accepting the fault wasn't a truth but it was just easier to do so. A knight princess that commanded armies of thousands yet she can't even succeed one thing. What's another one to the growing list of failure?

Alicetaria wanted answers from the Princess but that girl was nowhere to be found. The others have no idea of her current objective and naturally so. An uncommon occurrence. Thus, Mamika's death was in vain for now. The right time will come.

The sun completed its turn to sleep. Lights within the streets turned on to greet the world. The world once again reminded of its alien features. She's been here for weeks but it still felt unsettling on occasion.

Her purpose here was supposed to be simple. Change her world, restore it to its proper peaceful glory. That had been her hope for bringing back life and smiles to her people. They've suffered too much.

After taking a day to read a few books, she managed to understand. Mankind was both hopeful and cruel. They inflict or suffer death and still hope to remain triumphant to the end. An era of victory, glory, peace and happiness behind a page of death, deceit and sorrow.

She was alone to make a choice. However, she finds it difficult to decide anything else. The Librarian may not entirely hostile but remained out of reach. Pride demanded the line for there is only solace otherwise. Consorting with the lying fox is dangerous ground.

Mamika's death replayed before her eyes. Another moment of regret yet the stoic nature ingrained since birth suppressed it. Action before dreams. Altair wasn't the choice and that left nobody else.

Except a young boy. Young and weak, he stood defiant against her. His voice spoke much of dreams and hope on Alicetaria. The Creators were watching her with hopes and prayers that she'd save her people. She cannot believe that she alone could save her kingdom. Doing so would be foolhardy yet the warmth in her chest was grateful.

Maybe the Gods in this world aren't so bad. Her journey through life was considered a living hell. Many depended on her for survival and only so. For receiving hopes of others to bringing peace, that was novel.

Alicetaria February, princess of Ulstertein stood up with a tightened fist. Honest answers are needed and she will get them from him.

Emiya unlocked the door and entered home. The wooden furniture remained untouched. A thin layer of dust coated the brown lacquers. Air smelled stale as he tapped at a rune on the wall beside the shoe rack.

The rune, barely visible against the red wall glowed for a second before becoming quiet. Satisfied, the Guardian stored his shoes, tossed the bag pack onto the black sofa while checking the rooms.

Structural Grasp revealed no electronic bugs. He pulled back the blinds to the balcony, seeing a view of the Imperial Palace. The twentieth floor provided great overhead view and obscurity from being seen on taking flight. Mirokuji and Kanoya weren't at home next door given the lack of music. The girls were staying further down the block.

Saber had taken the tour rather well. The Holy Grail provided the basics knowledge of the world but it lacked a little on the intricacies such as terrain, local culture and politics. Saber must be able to carry himself in the new life in the city.

The smartphone rang. Kikuchihara said. "Archer, I want to inform you that we've finally found Kinoko Nasu."

The Creator for Fate. "I see. What happened to him?"

"The publisher, Type-Moon was contacted by him. Kinoko Nasu is overseas. Said that he travelled on an inspiration for some research."

Good news. "At least he's not hurt. I assume he will be coming back soon." He'll need to prepare several contingencies to avoid blackmail like the two boys.

"Unfortunately, he won't. Mr. Nasu has refused our offer for protection." Kikuchihara explained. "Despite how much we insisted for his safety, he was outright unwilling to return and meet us in person."

"Why aren't you taking him into custody?" He managed to learn about how the other group got rooted into the government's hands. It had a similar comedic distaste especially when he managed to hear how the calculative sage balked upon the idea of reparations to the government.

"We would but there's protocol that need to be met to prepare for international custody."

"How long would that be?" He asked.

"I was informed it's subjective. It may be several weeks or months." Kikuchihara answered. She didn't sound pleased by the idea.

A rise into his chest. "Would he at the minimum be interested to talk?"

"Mr. Nasu has allowed that concession. I'll inform them to ask for a teleconference."

"Yes. I'll get the computer on. Send me the details." The process took twenty minutes and it left him staring at the computer while it worked the necessary connections. Under Kikuchihara's instructions, the machine will connect to a chat room where the said Creator would be waiting.

A deep breath blew across his lips. Moment of truth, time to meet the man who created him and everyone else within his universe. Emiya leaned back as the connection completed. Was this man someone worth in gold or is the man another sad rendition of darkness?

The image appeared. A second was needed to know that it wasn't human. A green mushroom in shape with legs and arms. White eyes with yellow stars within. A small stick in its yellow hand. The mushroom waved as Emiya shook his head. Another disappointment, again. "What kind of man are you if you won't even bother showing your face?" A line of text appeared at the bottom of the screen.

I'm a very shy person. Don't mind me, lol.

Emiya felt his temper flare from the last word. "Damn, you remind me of that crackpot."

Uhuhu, Zelretch. Always liked his penchant for fun. That's the way we are designed to live after all. We search for happiness instead of getting shit done. If only I could be serious like you sometimes.

"You speak that way yet your results work speaks otherwise." Emiya had studied rudimentary details about the man, reading about the surprising amount of depth given for every work requested of him. A perfectionist to the core.

Ah, I see you've done your homework. Quite thorough yourself and I do agree that it's a strong habit of mine. Regardless, I prefer to enjoy the moment in my quiet life. By the way, did you have the chance to play your games?

"No. I do have a summary."

That's unfortunate. It would have been a pilgrimage on your part to travel back to the roots. You should try them, and then a few other games. Bayonetta would be a nice example.

Emiya sighed. "Enough talking around the bush. Your hobbies are not of my concern. Now then, I've heard you refused to have protection."

Honestly, I am surprised that. I mean it would be great to be able to talk to my own characters but to think could actually happen. That's exciting and crazy in its own way. Still I am sure I am quite fine staying right here.

"Where are you anyway?"

Can't tell. No, they're probably listening here and doing all those techno tricks and all. Thank goodness I have someone who knows their stuff unlike me.

"Aren't you scared?"

Why should I be scared? I cannot fear when I understand everything about you.

"Creations are out there. Siegfried and an alternate version of myself are here. There may be more from your universe, others keener on killing you if they found out. I might even do it myself after what you put me through."

That's nice to know. If it happens, it will no matter what I do. That is what Fate is about isn't it? Besides, do you regret it now?

"No."

Live on. You are a sword, a weapon to kill. That doesn't mean you still cannot protect the people you love. Like how Arturia did. Your wishes do not invalidate your achievements.

Emiya felt the sting of the past. A memory long buried. "Sometimes I wonder if you're being serious or a liar."

Lolololol, I did remind you of Zelretch. For all things could have been, maybe I am him.

"Go to hell." Emiya huffed. Looking at the mushroom walking across the screen gave an annoying sting. "Did they talk to you about rewriting my character?"

Of course they did. They wanted you to be stronger to fight against this Altair. Reminds me of Gilgi.

Emiya chuckled. The King of Heroes would've be screaming if he heard that. "Quite right you are. So, are you going to do it?"

I leave that for your imagination.

"Yep, I expected as much for your shenanigans."

That was uncalled for. Now I'm not keen on telling you the answer.

"Not that it matters. I don't need your support."

Not that you need it in the first place. Shirou Emiya or would you prefer Counter Guardian Emiya?

"An extra hand would be convenient. What you call me doesn't matter. Now then, are you going to disappear off or can we talk another time?"

More questions and answers for the future. Foresee that within the Counter Guardian, I do. Well if I'm not busy gaming or getting shit done, why not?

"We'll keep in touch."

The team was back in action at the nearing ends of the week. Meteora and Mirokuji were healed from their wounds. Archer's progress was on the finishing touches. Selesia was discharged from hospital but needed a few days more to optimum condition. Kikuchihara's appointment with the Parliament had garnered the final decision.

Both options were to be pursued. The military supported the agenda, calling for retribution on the lives lost since that day. Emiya's plan, named as Operation Vengeful Hound was to be the main strategy.

Meteora's Bird Cage plan was the backup alternative. She didn't like the final decision but adhered to it. Kikuchihara would be the lead of the Bird Cage while Major Magaki of the JSDF would command the combat front.

Now with support behind their backs, they have a war to fight. Creator and Creations had gathered within the meeting room of the Cabinet Building. Meteora took point of the discussion. Their objective, Altair and her forces. "Let us have a short recap before we strategize further. What do we know about Altair?"

Nakanogane opened an image of Altair and projected it onto the wall. "She has a submachine gun as a violin for some reason. And she has swords, a lot of swords."

Archer said. "Hanger, sword based from 17th century Europe. No special abilities except remote psychic commands and being indestructible. Those swords cannot be disarmed from her."

Selesia pointed out. "Not that it matters when she can make more copies." Archer raised a brow in response.

"In addition to that, I am placing an assumption that she can only copy and control anything that is not a living being." Meteora said as Marine helped to take notes. "Furthermore to that, she can turn objects into a handful of roses."

"How are we supposed to fight something that can erase all our weapons?" Kanoya scratched his head. The pilot would be at greatest risk.

Meteora opened the Book of a Thousand Miles and flipped through the middle pages. If she was not mistaken, yes there it was. "I have a magic spell that can create resistances against specific mediums or forms. I can modify this to resist the breakdown of a concept. It might not outright stop it but it should limit the damage and maintain Gigas Machina's existence."

"Nice." Kanoya gave a thumb up. Marine scribbled quick notes in response.

"Another alternative is to stay away from her when she does it." Nakanogane said as he opened a video to demonstrate his point. "I've done some studying and found that it expands in a spherical shape." Each special attack of hers had a similar shape and form.

"That is a very good observation. Likewise, there is an apparent cue of striking a sword against the violin. We can assume it to be the case and respond if we see such indicators." Meteora nodded as pen scribbled in a furious fervour.

"At least I won't have my sword disappear on me again." Selesia said. "Do you remember anything particular about Altair?"

Sota shook his head. "No, I don't. Shimazaki gave me a few images and the video but that was it. Nothing I think that will be helpful. Sorry."

"That's fine. I wasn't expecting for a list of weapons or something like that." Selesia replied. "Speaking of weapons, we can't even get close to Altair with those swords defending her in the first place."

"We could have someone dedicated to handle them." Mirokuji joined the conversation. "I haven't seen that girl swing a sword once, not here or in any reference. She might not be skilled in a close-up fight. That means we can take advantage of that."

"That may be the best option." Meteora asked the Red Guardian. "Archer, by any chance do you have any particular weapon that would be able to handle those weapons? Especially amongst your strongest abilities."

Archer paused. "Good question but I have no answer. I've tried overwhelming her with equivalent exchange once but it wasn't effective. Altair was vigilant of her surroundings."

"Not to side track it too much but does she operate using magic?" Hideaki asked.

Meteora considered the idea. Most forms of stories or games like hers applied the concept of limited energy such as natural mana or fuel sources. "There is no information about that. Certainly, if she does uses magic, it may be possible to exhaust all her reserves."

"That would be possible unless she has a similar form to True Magic." Archer said.

"By any chance, are you referring to Aoko Aozaki?" Hideaki asked.

"Yes, the Blue. Her Magecraft is so cost efficient that it's insane. We won't bleed her dry if she has a similar ability."

Meteora did not recognise the name. "For the point of clarity, who is this person?"

"Aoko Aozaki's a character in my universe. A Magus that carried the abilities of Fifth Magic."

Kanoya raised a hand. "Sounds something fancy. Isn't magic just magic?"

"Magecraft and Magic are not the same." Archer explained. A sword appeared in his hand. "Magecraft are achievements that can be achieved through scientific or mundane methods. Magic on the other hands are considered miracles or concepts thought impossible to be executed in this reality. For example, Aozaki's Fifth Magic relates to time travel and manipulation."

Mirokuji said. "You're saying the girl's strong and with a very efficient engine. That's totally my kind of girl." A chuckle before he narrowed his eyes. "The concept of energy might not even exist for Altair. She's dangerous as hell and I doubt that girl would have a simple weakness as running out of steam."

Archer added. "She does have a limitation. A time limit of sorts for her abilities to recharge and recycle."

"I've noticed that as well. Games refer to that limitation as cool down. Once she uses those abilities, we can take advantage of that."

"Why would she have such limitations? I doubt it's part of the artwork." Selesia said.

"Inferences from her comments suggest that the world is trying to reject her existence. Excessive use of her abilities would cause the rebound to be strong enough to throw her out of the world." Meteora surmised.

"That just sets a time before she disappears. It doesn't help us in actually fighting her." Selesia pouted.

Matsubara sighed. "That's the problem with fighting Mary Sues."

Nakanogane added. "A Mary Sue is the writing trope for overpowered heroes."

Mirokuji clicked his tongue. "How are these Mary's handled?"

Matsubara explained. "We tend to avoid the idea of having Gary or Mary Sue characters unless it is the main premise of a story since it'd eventually becomes boring to the readers. What we usually do is try to level the balance of the powers towards even for the story. Otherwise we put in flaws in their powers or character like making magic only work in certain conditions. That way, the character would be able to have a challenge and create a form of growth."

Nakanogane added. "The problem with such ideas that since she is a secondary character and with such base stats, the sense of overwhelming power would be difficult to dilute or address. If we'd try anything with that, they'll be rejected outright."

Matsubara sighed. "What a pain. Mary Sues were always the most troublesome to resolve, not without major power creep and the consequences afterwards." He tapped at the board with a finger. "Power creep is always bad. It breaks the sense of disbelief for people the more ridiculous it becomes."

"Is it possible to create one story where she's weakened due to some condition or factor and get them to accept it?" Hideaki asked.

"Definitely possible. It's risky though because it's just a small element and not the majority." The Creators were in full agreement.

"We can't buff the heroes either if we can't find a useful loophole to exploit." Nakanogane glanced at Marine's notes.

"That's considering that we have to limit it within our own stories as well." Matsubara leaned back against the chair and draped his arms over the headrest. "I'm stunned to think of a useful option that would suit Selesia well."

"Thanks to hear that. Can it be something really powerful and cool in the process?" Selesia said.

"No guarantees." Selesia's response was a pout.

"At least you have someone considering, my Creator's not even around to listen, always babbling about his deadlines." Mirokuji said.

Meteora pressed a hand on the table. "We're going off topic. The revisions can be thought out in detail later on. Meanwhile, it is imperative that we decide the strategy to handle Altair and her followers in this world."

Archer nodded. "The JSDF is doing the ground work on finding their new base. Meteora, I need your help on getting that spell sorted and finding ways to reinforce reality. Altair is out of our reach until the revisions are in place."

Mirokuji relaxed in his chair. "What about that old man, knight and this new guy?"

Nakanogane opened the photo of Blitz Talker as Archer spoke. "Blitz is limited by physique. He may be a good shot but he is fragile in comparison and doesn't have superhuman abilities. If we can corner him into an enclosed area, his ability to fly would not be effective."

Meteora gestured to Blitz's Creator. "Do you have anything to add on to that Suruga?"

Suruga was drawing as per habit. Pausing her pen, she answered. "Archer is pretty spot on but I will warn you. He knows this as well and will prevent you from trying to take advantage of it. Likewise, indoors doesn't hinder him. I already had someone try that and didn't work."

"You're correct. He was well prepared against me when we battled a few weeks ago."

"That old man sounds much simpler. Now then what do we know about our warrior knight?"

The picture of the princess of Ulstertein appeared. Meteora spoke of her experiences. "Alicetaria's armour is able to withstand a lot of damage. She is skilled in the use of a lance spear and also in close hand to hand combat. The dangerous part is the gauntlet in her left arm. Magical abilities, commonly lightning related elements including summoning warriors to aid her."

"Fast, hits like a truck but she is not invulnerable. Maybe if you can throw some magic at her while in a brawl, that'd be great." Mirokuji smiled.

Matsubara raised a hand. "I've read her stories and if I'm not mistaken, that gauntlet needs chanting to work. Can we make some sort of voice silencing field and lure her inside?"

"Archer here knows something about fields. Maybe Meteora and Archer can figure something out?"

"I do not appreciate you speaking on my behalf, Kid. Meteora, I'll have a word with you later about it." She nodded in response.

"If you need a Magic Swordswoman, I'm the right choice. I'm confident I can take her down." Selesia stood up and tapped her stomach. "Besides I have some payback to return."

Archer nodded. "Very well. I accept the proposition. We will see who else can support you and investigate on the magic field after we've decided the plan on all targets."

Mirokuji spun a finger in circles. "We're on a roll. That leaves the new guy next."

"As for this man called Alter, I think-" The door knocked. Kikuchihara entered the room with a folder in hand.

"Afternoon, we've just received word from the Meteorological Department, another Creation has arrived somewhere in Hongomagome. We are deploying police and JSDF but I appreciate having a helping hand if things turn south."

"Of course, we are willing to help." Meteora addressed to the rest of the team. "We will adjourn for now and search for this Creation. If we are fast, we may be able to bring them to our side."

The conference room had been plastered with paper. Reports, maps and news of value were plastered across the table and on the walls. Emiya noticed several satellite images of the area surrounding the Rikugien Gardens.

The search for the Creation had yielded poor results. No creation was found, only the aftermath. Broken floors and walls significant enough to cause major problems to the small shed building. No evidence of the perpetrator could be found. The garden will need repairs for a few weeks and was closed off from the public.

Meteora decided to have Saber and Kanoya continue the search. Meanwhile Mirokuji and Meteora coordinated with the police and JSDF from the Cabinet building. Emiya was placed on sentry duty to observe for targets of interests. The skyscrapers are starting to become his second home now.

The search had eaten the rest of the day and called off at night. Morning returned and Emiya wanted to close the remaining hole. Shirou Emiya's Alter Ego. Joined by him in the investigation was the Sage and Kid. The other Creators had been harried back to work with their tightening deadlines. "What can you tell me about Alter?"

Kid blinked a few times before Emiya called on him again. Kid arranged his research on the table. "There aren't a lot of details about him. Motivation is vague." There were a few artworks. The computer tablet at the edge of the table displayed a video about Alter, mostly from the mobile game of Fate Grand Order.

Emiya instructed. "Tell me what's there."

"Emiya Alter is a man who had casted aside his name in the journey of being a heartless executor. He had lost his past and memories. Alter has forsaken morality and scorned any bonds of affection. It is said that he was born from trying to subjugate the Malice within a woman."

"That isn't far from my version of history. What is this Malice referring to?"

Kid retrieved a page from the table. "It refers to a Kiara Sessyoin, founder of a cult called Shingon Tachikawa school." Kid read another page. "This woman's complicated from the biography. However, there is a key point. Every follower under the woman commits suicide in the end."

"Suicide. That is distasteful." Meteora said.

Kid pointed to a paragraph on the web page. "There's a reference to Alter here." Emiya read the text. In that timeline, Alter had massacred cult members before finally killing Kiara. No numbers were specified but it was apparently enough to drive him towards another level of Purgatory.

"Why was he created? If he is a copy of Archer, why is he using guns as weapons?" Meteora observed.

"It's intended by the creators. Alternate versions are popular especially within the Type Moon universe. As for the guns, that may just be a part of his character description." The teenager explained.

"We don't need a history lesson Kid. Tell me about his abilities. How similar are they to mine?"

Kid flipped down the page, struggling a few times. "Nothing much about it but stats appear similar to yours in the original story. His Noble Phantasm is called Unlimited Lost Works." Emiya remembered the ability used on him, causing swords to appear from within flesh. His arm remembered the pain for a glimpse before pushing it aside. "It inserts Alters origin of sword into a bullet and fires it at a target for swords to shred from inside." Meteora bit her lip at the note.

Kid pointed at a table in the page. "There's a reference to something called Derisive Heart of Steel but it doesn't specify anything other than a form of self-indoctrination. Beyond this, I haven't found anything useful in particular."

Meteora studied the note. "The description is very brief and troublesome. Why did Altair choose him?"

"You use a thief to catch a thief?" Kid suggested.

"A plausible truth." Emiya agreed. Unlimited Blade Works carried many weapons that it would be difficult at times to know which could be used. Alter would be able to know each weapon and likewise counter him accordingly.

Meteora raised the concern. "He knows all your abilities and limits. That would be a difficult limitation for battle."

"Yes. That doesn't mean I don't know his. Unlimited Blade Works is fortunately not within his control thus far. If this list is true, he might not have it at all." That was a fortunate downside to know. As Alter could account for his abilities, Emiya could do so in reverse.

"That is an assumption which is difficult to verify."

"If it comes down to it, I can pull it off."

"Such confidence, what is your plan to handle him?"

"Subjective. I've fought against him once. We definitely have similar fighting styles, he is keeping some cards hidden and nothing new appeared from that list."

"Would it be possible for him to take control of your Reality Marble?"

"I have not encountered that kind of attack before. A reasonable possibility."

"I could try to find something about that." Kid offered.

Emiya refused. "I'll do the searching. Second hand information wouldn't be as useful for my assessment of the man. Now you focus on handling Saber. Have you checked his stats?"

"Stats?"

"You are aware Masters can see the status of their servants, correct?"

The kid nodded his head. "I remember now. Although, how exactly do you do that?"

"Why am I not surprised? Here's a crash course for you." The process wasn't difficult but one needed to be trained in the arts of handling familiars to be able to grasp the concept. All it needed was a few minutes of work and a guiding hand.

"Wow." Kid blinked a few times as he looked around the room. "It works." Emiya noticed the boy's hands were shaking. Kid turned for the door. "I'll be right back."

Meteora returned to the topic. "Barring the discussion, we should also evaluate who else is capable of fighting Alter. We all are equipped with different skills and maximising their utility should be our focus."

"All that is assuring to hear." Emiya said. "It would still be best if I dealt with him alone. I know how we fight and I prefer to have no liabilities."

"While Mirokuiji has lost Hangaku and I do not possess many offensive spells, the rest of us can support you in our own ways."

"Maybe. Again, to repeat, I prefer to fight on my own."

"That will be considered." The sage can be annoying on her insistence. Not that it matters since the plan never survives first contact with the enemy.

Daichi leaned against the wall. Hot. Flesh under his skin was burning. Cold showers several times during the day hadn't help to stave it off. He hadn't had a good appetite since…when? Memory was starting to feel a bit difficult being tired all day. A night's sleep wasn't refreshing at all, just a deeper lull towards exhaustion.

Maybe a rinse to the face would help to pass this moment. Daichi walked towards the restroom but felt his legs give way. Why did he feel so weak? The door opened. Meteora noticed him. "Are you alright? You don't look so well."

Daichi answered. "I think I have a fever." Had he taken medicine? He couldn't remember. That headache was becoming a growing nuisance.

"Hideaki." Meteora placed a hand on his shoulder. Her hands were so cold. "You're burning up." She turned down the corner. "I'll ask Kikuchihara's people to help send you to a doctor." He gave thanks as he waited. Nerves felt jumpy on fire. The headache was throbbing harder. Ringing in the head.

Siegfried appeared beside him. "Master, are you alright?" The weight in his chest pressed harder. Limbs were feeling like lead.

The pain was growing. "Honestly, I don't know." Perhaps he should -. Everything went black.

Daichi crawled back to wakefulness. A white bed. Why was he here? A glance around told him the answer. A hospital room. Meteora was sitting by the door. She approached as he lifted an arm. "What happened?"

"You collapsed. The doctor said you have a fever, malnourished and a few other complications. I have not been able to identify the root cause of it. I do know that is related to magic and called for Archer to help."

Siegfried was standing beside him. "Are you feeling better Master?" Daichi didn't feel worse, or far better.

Archer burst through the door. "What's this going on about the kid?" Archer touched his wrist before his brows narrowed. "You idiot." Archer turned towards Siegfried. "Saber, spirit form now." Daichi felt immensely better when Siegfried vanished. "You've overloaded yourself."

"I see." That was all he could say.

"You are a Master now. You should have been aware of the Prana consumption." Archer lifted him up. The white shirt was peeled off. "This is going to need some work." Placing a hand on his chest, Daichi felt a pulse. The burning heat stopped. A true blessing. The exhaustion began to unwind.

"Didn't you all manage to contract a Servant while fighting with your own Magecraft?" Daichi said.

"They have been born a Magus and been training years for it. They have more Magic Circuits and each with greater quality and capacities than you. You barely had one for days and think you can handle a Heroic Spirit as a Servant?"

"Point taken. I'm sorry." Daichi said.

"Get some rest. I'll check up on you later." Archer gestured for Meteora to follow him before leaving. Siegfried stood watch as the door closed shut. The cool sensation was tremendous relief as Daichi closed his eyes and slept well.

Author's Notes

Thanks for reading Beyond Worlds. It's been a while and I've been left to think hard on this for a few things. Been shuffling things around which led to the delay in my part. My apologies for that.

There's a lot of valid points on both sides of the topic that led me thinking and changing things up. Enough to consider it as the second rewrite of the story. I think it's for the better but I cannot foresee the impacts on the other things such as the thematic and other notions of the story. The previous chapters are not invalidated but I feel that some potential have been lost in following new directions. Then again, this story is already long as it is in contrast to normal books in the market. It has no need to go dawdle on about everything.

Kinoko Nasu's here and I hoped I managed to get a close enough gist of him. It took a few weeks of reading through the interviews to understand him. I don't know how accurate I am since I don't trust Google translations on the little nuances and details. Earlier within the project, I had grand dreams of trying to meet Kinoko Nasu if I travelled to Japan for this part of the project. That will stay as a dream of course. Trying to find a slot to place this scene in was difficult.

Please note that, I'm now on a medical hiatus so I won't be able to adhere to the regular schedule anymore. I apologize for that and likewise I don't know how long treatment will be. I hope to recover soon and complete this project.

Until better times.

Regards

MarksmanKNG