Chapter 13: Forward

"Did you manage to find anything?" Siegfried asked as Meteora activated an incantation on her Magic Grimoire. A pulse of blue light before it faded.

She shook her head while closing the book shut. "I am unable to likewise identify any sources of magic from this location."

"I do not have anything else here either." Emiya said as he sifted through fine dust and handful chunks of rubble. Structural Grasp likewise did not grasp anything of interest. The hastily constructed Bounded field revealed nothing. They were just as is, broken stuff. He stood up from the centre of the purposed scene.

The missing Creations were nowhere to be seen. It was agreed upon as a minimum to investigate the sites where they appeared. This site was certain. Half of the building shattered into pieces of concrete and metal beyond immediate manmade capabilities. Given the amount of damage, it was intriguing to find the other half remained standing from the numerous cracks and stresses within.

Siegfried observed the little pieces of the pole previously buried into the ground. "Given the amount of damage from the piece of metal, I am surprised that we haven't found any signs of magic. These metal sticks aren't suited for such a feat."

"I would agree with you but it may be something further than we think. There are much greater possibilities than the ones at hand," Emiya said. The animation industry in this world is vast with the amount of complex stories and characters. The Nasuverse alone has many intricacies within its various versions of the storyline and alternative options.

Siegfried nodded as he stepped out of the green sidewall of the tent covering the area. "I see. It is a pressing matter but I am optimistic we are able to pull through. I apologise for being unable to assist beyond being present on this matter."

"So you say, Saber. You do your part and I'll do mine." Emiya had already planned him into the roster lineup.

"This site is a bust." The area had been cordoned off from the public with a full tent placed overhead to avoid prying eyes. They had been given a day before the area had to be cleared to start repair works.

Meteora followed through the tent into the white sun. "The police haven't been successful on gathering additional details from witnesses. It would not be hopeful to expect anything new on that front."

Emiya dusted off his jacket. "The Major told me they have no available data from GPS as the satellite was on the other side of the world at that point of time."

"I understand this machine is able to take great details from huge distances away?" Siegfried said.

"In nutshell, it is floating somewhere beyond the clouds, spinning around this Earth." Emiya riffled inside his jacket for the keys. "Best we return back and restore our strength. I need a word with the JSDF as well along the way."

"Excellent. I look forward to your cooking later."

Meteora raised a hand. "I am eager and grateful to enjoy all of it."

Emiya shook his head. "Do not remind me." Ever since that kid mentioned about his skills, the demand for food among the Creations skyrocketed. Creators themselves were tempted to travel all the way for his cooking. Pride befell upon him once, and now another time again.

Siegfried put on his blue jacket before walking towards the car. "Do you not like to cook? I see a different set of eyes whenever you start to cook."

"I do not take privy to being stared at."

"You said nothing so I assumed you didn't mind about it. I apologise if it's otherwise."

"Forget about it." Siegfried was the least of troubles for food. The bigger trouble was the short one trailing behind. Why on Earth did he always have to feed gluttons?

Daichi Hideaki stared at the blank white screen. A finger tapped against the laptop's keyboard, trying to nudge an idea from the silence. Nothing was coming to mind.

Archer was getting an inclusion into the Bird Cage from one of the writers from Type Moon. A miniature arc spin off created within the Fate Grand Order universe. Siegfried would likewise be included within the process. The idea of acceptance would be handled by the pros.

Important question was how could they improve their powers? His situation was in a bit of a limbo. The Magic Circuit didn't have much of an output but it had a potential. What can he do with it to help them?

A loud clack jolted Daichi out of his seat. Snapping his neck towards the door revealed Mizushino in his uniform. "You scared me."

"Sorry," Mizushino said. "I thought the others were here today."

"Marine and Matsubara's working on an interview while the others are having their own programs elsewhere today. They should be in tomorrow."

"I see." He returned back to the chair. Long silence took place alongside. Mizushino pointed at the word processor. "What are you writing about?"

"Nothing. I'm still trying to come up with an idea to help out." He'd been here for an hour now since the end of school. Something had to come out by the end of today to make it in time. Daichi noticed the sullen face. "What's with the long face? Chikujoin threatening you again by chance?"

Mizushino shook his head. "No. It's not happening again. I'm not letting her get away with anything."

Daichi stretched his fingers. "Then what's with the look?"

"You're busy and I don't want to bother you."

"I need a break anyway. Seriously I hate these chairs. They are so hard and uncomfortable. Are these people made of metal?" No reply. "So what's wrong?"

Mizushino shook his head. "It's not a big deal."

"If it wasn't a big deal, you wouldn't be looking like that. I'm not going to leave another potential bomb waiting inside there again even if I don't like it."

Mizushino paused, mind contemplating an answer. He took a seat across Daichi. "I had an idea to incorporate within one of the stories. I managed to convince everyone else that it can help." The boy's face turned away. "However now, I'm struggling to make it work."

"What would you say the problem is about?"

Mizushino turned away, his voice barely heard. "I can't get it to work right."

"How is it not working right?"

"Well…"

"By any chance, are you're saying that your skills are bad that you can't get it to work?"

Shy boy bit his lip. "That's quite direct there."

Daichi clicked his tongue. "Yeah, that was a bit too much. Anyhow, that doesn't mean the problem's fixed just by knowing about it."

"I'm not giving up so to say but I'm a bit worried that it won't be done correctly in time." Mizhushino squirmed. "The way Archer talked about short of time is making me uneasy."

"I feel the same vibe. The faster it is, the better. As for an idea, I can only suggest to get someone to help on that," Daichi said.

"How can I get someone to help me with creating something?"

That piqued his interest. "Oh, it's related to creating stuff? That's somewhere easier to start then." Daichi pointed towards the empty desks. "You already have the best people around you to look for help. Matsubara and the others should be able to give you advice."

Mizushino's reluctance was plastered on his face. "I don't want to bother them. They're busy enough as it is."

"That's true but rather than to keep struggling against a problem and possibly not fix the problem, it's a better alternative. In return you can help them on something else."

"That would be hard. I mean, it'd be too imposing on them. It was difficult already to get their opinion on it."

"Nobody would fight for you unless it benefits them. Kindness and charity aren't free either. If you really want it, you'll have to earn it."

Mizushino's eyes widened at the thought. "That sounds deep."

"I guess being around with Archer so much rubbed off me a little." Daichi glanced at the clock and realised. "Speaking of which, I need to go to practice."

Mizushino paused before answering. "Sure."

Daichi scrambled his things into his pack and walked for the door. "Believe in yourself. If you can't, believe in someone who believes in you. I don't but I'm sure someone does." He give Mizushino a wave behind his back before disappearing. The right thing doesn't care even if they aren't eye to eye.

Emiya contemplated between poisons to use on the ungrateful lot. Ever since dinner that day, the humble abode had been packed with the entire group. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Every single time. Kikuchihara seemed to be supporting the idea, delivery of food and stocks just in time every day. Sure, cooking was enjoyable but they deserve some retribution especially the Kid. Maybe he should add some laxatives as the first step.

Today's lunch topic was about the Internet. Meteora had been exploring the idea of utilising it for trying to expand her current database of knowledge given how any revision for her would be limited given her Creator's death. From Emiya's observation thus far, it seemed more probable that the girl was looking for more food to try instead.

"The Internet is a vast place for easily accessible storage and information. Having such a commodity is truly valuable."

Emiya pointed out. "Though the Internet has its own underworld within." The Dark Web existed in his universe. He used it on occasion to acquire difficult goods and materials for his missions. Darn, he hadn't the time to thank Luvia Edefelt for the few jewels given to him at times.

"There's that and also Rule Thirty Four." Kid pointed out. Emiya didn't recognise that rule from any of his experiences in the underground communities. Probably not important.

Selesia was perplexed. "What's rule Thirty Four?"

Mizushino cracked an awkward laugh. "That isn't a really good thing to know."

Kid raised a finger. "If something exists on the net, there's a porn of it."

Cold silence blanketed the room. Selesia chuckled before settling her eyes on the Kid. "You're not joking, right?"

Kid shook his head, cringing her face into rising tide of hell. Her hands hit the table before screaming. "I feel so violated darn it!"

There the kid goes at it. "Did you have to tell them that?" Mizushino said.

The sage was quiet, Hoshikawa bright fumbling tomato with the other Creators giving uncomfortable looks. Emiya surmised it to be a natural conclusion. He had learnt to cast aside modesty when need be for war in the old days were random. Battlefield injuries were priority than shame.

"It's a truth they deserve to know." Kid protested.

Yuya reached for a piece of teriyaki chicken. "Well, sucks to be girls." That promptly got him a glare from Selesia and Marine.

"Nope, you guys ain't scot-free." Kid explained. Chopsticks froze. "There's a particular genre called Yaoi."

Emiya felt the need to cringe. "I have a bad feeling about this." Doesn't the Kid have any sense of tact to drop the topic?

Kanoya gripped at his stomach. "I feel sick."

Yuya raised his brow. "Oi, what's this Yaoi about?"

"Guy with guy relationship. Gritty details included." Kid explained.

"You can't be serious." Yuya's eyes were wide, in need of denial.

Kid shook his head. "It's the truth. There are probably at least a half dozen stories involving you with someone."

"I feel like I just got cancer." Yuya stood up and walked to the door. "I need a smoke."

"I really don't like the sound of that." Kanoya looked just about to throw up.

Selesia's face slammed onto the table. "I think my respect for the Gods of this world has dropped. Hard off a cliff."

Matsubara winced in the background as Kid continued his demise. "Well, there's also lot of other categories. Example would be gender bender where your genders get swapped."

Emiya huffed. "So in one case, I ended up as a girl." The girls were stuck lamenting at their predicament. Only Nakanogane had any sense of an appetite.

"There was one case besides Chloe."

"Who exactly is this Chloe?"

"Well...she is a girl that was born from a Class card based on Archer. She'd be his little sister."

"Little sister huh?" Emiya didn't remember reading that part.

Kid reached for his phone, tapped a few keys before showing it to him. "Well, she became a magical girl."

Ilyasviel von Einzbern, a homunculus and Master to a Greek God. Bloodthirsty and relentless. Turned into a magical girl with all the skimpy frilly clothes. The two different extremes considering the bloodthirstiness she brought upon her foes. A sigh and a hand to the face. "Another one?"

"The worst is when the girl meets the original."

Selesia stabbed a fork onto the plate. "Let's just end the topic." White china cracked behind the smile he actually found was rather sinister for once. "Or else." Kid nodded and a form of calm returned to the meal. Somewhat.

Sota fiddled his fingers as he waited for the meeting to start. Hikayu's Creator was coming and Meteora wanted a discussion with the others. The room was cramped with everyone inside. Creators by the front amongst the seats, Creations kept back towards the walls. Exception was Hikayu herself, having the main seat.

Archer was absent. Selesia raised a fuss before giving up. Apparently the man had been exhausting to deal with. He didn't want to come close to him, even when he is a hero.

When Hikayu's Creator was brought in by Nakanogane, he wasn't as expected. Short with the large nose and mole on the right cheek stood out and adding the unkempt black hair gave the closest impression Sota had of a NEET.

Kikuchihara begun the talk. "Welcome Mr. Ohnishi. I thank you for your time." Hoshikawa followed by introducing herself. Her voice soft in contrast to the other day.

Ohnishi grew excited given his energy and loud voice. Hearing her voice grew his eyes wide open. A smile of joy that showed large teeth. "Hikayu, it's me." He reached forward with open arms. "Marry me please!"

Sota blinked. What, just, happened? Screams shrilled ears as Hikayu was trying to fend herself from Ohnishi's attempt at either hugging or groping the girl.

A large hand grabbed Ohnishi by the collar before lifting him off his feet. Siegfried in full armour turned the man around to meet eye to eye. "Please restrain yourself."

That calmed the man. "Right." Siegfried nodded before lowering him back onto the chair.

"Woah, you really act like a knight." Selesia said. Siegfried returned her words with a nod before returning to his place beside Hideaki.

Kikuchihara adjusted her glasses. "Ohnishi, this isn't a hand shaking event with an idol group or a cosplay event. This is a meeting to discuss on how to give Hoshikawa powers. Please remain focused on the task at hand." She nodded to Meteora whom began explaining the situation to Ohnishi.

Ohnishi's initial excitement went up several notches but Selesia's aura of danger probably kept him on a tight leash. Several minutes was enough to bring the man up to date.

"Wow…I'll be honest. I wasn't expecting this. To think that Nirvana has graced me today." Sota felt a chill down his spine.

Meteora continued. "In Hoshikawa's original description, she is supposed to be a normal high school girl. However given the circumstance, we want to find ways to give her abilities to help us to fight Altair."

"Hmm, hmm." Ohnishi rested his fingers under the chin. A snap of fingers. "For Hikayu's case, it's a piece of cake."

"How do you plan to do, specifically?"

"A fan disk would do. What kind of abilities do you have in mind?"

"Based on the current composition of our team, I am looking to enhance it with a fighter that can handle immense attacks."

Ohnishi nodded, his eyes wide with glee. "I see. I have just the right thing in mind."

Siegfried stepped forward. "I would like to raise a point. While I understand that Altair is strong, I feel that we should not force our lady here to fight."

"Saber's right." Mirokuji tossed a casual salute to the servant. "We shouldn't force someone to fight just because they're a Creation. We should think this through."

"I understand on the concept. However, having an additional fighter will make a significant difference in our team's combat ability especially when her potential is endless," Meteora said.

He glared. "Metchin, we Creations may be tougher, stronger than you people but that doesn't mean we are immortal. We've felt the pain of our injuries. We've been fighting all our lives and accepted that we have to fight to win. This girl here is normal, a life worth envying. In any case, can you accept the responsibility for her death?"

"That is not a certain-"

"Are you so sure that you can guarantee her survival against Altair? The girl that has powers beyond all our capability so far? We almost died fighting her. I made my decision to fight and the consequences. It isn't right to force it onto her." Mirokuji walked towards the door. "I'm done."

Silence filled the room until the door closed shut. Kanoya broke the heavy weight in the air. "Wow…what a let down."

Selesia shuffled. "Maybe we can let Hoshikawa have something safer, like those supportive abilities?"

"An ability behind the front lines would still put her as a target. The risk remains," Siegfried said.

Nakanogane scratched his head. "Thinking of a useful ability like that would be tricky. It'll probably mess with Ohnishi's plan as it is."

Meteora turned to the girl in question. "Hoshikawa, what do you want to do?"

Hoshikawa pushed down the hem of her skirt. "I don't know."

"If that is the case, very well. We should adjourn for the time being. I need to think further on this matter to find an optimal solution." Meteora's face revealed nothing as she left. Selesia sighed before following up to chase the sage. Kikuchihara adjusted her glasses and nodded to the others to disperse.

The room grew in space as the Creators file out in their own thoughts of the matter. Sota bit his lip as he continued watching the frightened girl that held still.

Emiya tapped a boot against the panel of wood below him. Solid piece that made good footing. Meteora arranged some meeting to give the school girl some powers. Ridiculous idea for creating an unreliable weapon. This place, is where he needed to be.

His hands clapped into an echo before leaning over the platform to bark down towards those under his charge for today. "Let's get started. We ain't got all day."

Sixty men donned in green armour stood in formation. The best of the JSDF. Today was the third session of turning these lethal men into something more.

A storage warehouse had been turned into a makeshift training facility. This Killhouse would be his ground. Most of it had been constructed with wood to form a multi storey building. Easier to reconstruct later to cater new scenarios.

"We'll be running close quarters. Mixing it up to prepare you against all cases simultaneously. Jorgumand squad, you're up." First group fell out to grab their gear. Meantime, Emiya dropped down into the Killhouse and settled by the chair in the centre of the building.

Today's setup was to mimic an office building, many small rooms with a large meeting hall. Plentiful of windows as well. That was where he waited in the centre of the Killhouse. Emiya leaned and kicked his feet onto a chair. Furniture as props added to the authenticity of the situation. Perfect position to read the newspaper. A nice balcony to watch the boring view of a metal wall.

Leaning over a shoulder, he tapped the large alarm clock, starting the timer. Team Jorgumand had four minutes to flush and remove the threat, that being him. Contrast to standard tactics, fighting heroes was going to need a revamp. Twelve men on their own would be sitting ducks. This would be their third reminder.

Soft thumps from below. Without reinforced hearing, gauging their specific location was tad more difficult. He played the fool, checking the world news section to be disappointed. This world is just as messed up huh.

He didn't wait long to notice something small fly in from below the balcony. Flash grenade clattered onto the floor. Lifting the papers around his eyes, the loud bang proved an annoyance.

Door to his right smashed open. On cue. A body sized shield charged through. Heavy bulky piece of composite clanked with each step. Faster than human, slight. Nice of them to keep those shoes a secret. Without a glance, he projected and sent swords flying.

Blunt metal smashed against the shield. Not a dent. Pistol shots from the side in reply. Leaning aside popped the paper with holes. Too sloppy in such haste. Meteora's magic had improved durability of equipment and armour but these men were still human in flesh.

A wave of his hand projected swords behind the shielder. Sending them flying before deflected aside by rifle rounds. Good, they've learnt against that already.

Emiya flipped forward as more men followed the breach. A casual salute before leaning out and falling off the balcony. Grabbing hold of the footholds, breaking through the wooden wall and into a Jorgumand. Reinforcement complete, his fists struck like sledgehammers. Rapid streak of blows sent the soldier into a wall, unconscious.

The rear guard turned around from the commotion, opening fire point blank. Emiya ducked under before elbowing the man in the gut. Grab the wrist and tossed the man over onto his shoulder and a kick to the face will shut him down. That's two.

Tingle on the back of his neck. Rolling about before rubber bullets broke through the ceiling. Heavy footsteps scattered above with profound agility. Minimising losses. Emiya picked up a rifle from the floor and shot back through. Recoil thud against his shoulder, probably hitting everything but the targets. Tossing the empty gun aside, he sprinted towards the other end of the room towards the two stairs of the building.

By their footfalls, Jorgumand was setting up to watch both stairs and balcony. Pushing reinforcement further, he vaulted out the open window beside the stairs and climbed up. Most of his weapons would kill outright. Thus, he'll give them a bit more shame by projecting a pair of the cursed shinai of Fuyuki. They're fast, but not enough.

Reaching the roof, Structural Grasp gave him the needed details. A stomp of the feet brought him down, right onto a pair of shoulders. Guns blazed in return. Emiya weaved through them, each of his blows a blur.

Three.

Six.

Nine.

Eleven.

Bodies hit the floor as Emiya scanned for the last one. Last man with the shield charging from behind. Sidestep, disarm and push. The impact threw the man out of the building to a painful landing. The loud grunt outside probably meant he survived it rather well.

Twelve and all accounted for. Rubbing his hands together, Emiya popped a head outside and said. "Exercise is over. Team Niner, prep up." This time he'll get to enjoy the tea by the pantry. He made a smirk towards the downed men crawling to their feet. "Are you guys done hugging the floor yet?"

Their squad leader spoke between breaths. "Permission, to speak, freely?" Emiya gave a nod.

"Was that the worst you had to give us? No way in Satan's blazing balls are we going to give up from a walk in the park like that."

Emiya sensed growing will within them. Relentless faces of demons that will persist even when they are on death's door. A smile grew on his lips. "Still some hope left in your sorry lots. Let's make a demon out of you."

Sota opened the door and stepped out of the stadium. The meeting earlier had been sullen after Archer and Mirokuji left. They've decided to wrap it up as Meteora and Kikuchihara have a private discussion. Perhaps some fresh air outside could give a breather.

The afternoon day was cloudy and made the open corridor a comfortable walk. Sota noticed a tour bus turning into the parking area. He noticed someone further down the corridor.

Her green school uniform stood out against the white wall she was leaning against. The sombre looks on her face worried him. A decision made, he stepped closer towards her. Hikayu Hoshikawa noticed him as he waved. "Hi."

The girl's voice was soft, uncertain. "Hello."

Sota pointed at the bench she was sitting. "Can I have a seat here?"

"Oh, sure. I don't want to impose anything on you." Hoshikawa waved her hands with a smile. Yet it felt too fake.

Sota decided to sit anyway. "How are you feeling?"

"I'm…alright I guess." Hoshikawa turned to look towards the field where a team of players were practising in the field next door. "I still find it hard to accept that I'm in a new world."

"I think I would be same if I am in your shoes." Hoshikawa looked at him. "I mean I'm also a normal high schooler."

Hoshikawa's eyes widened. "Eh, don't you people have power to create?"

Sota shook his head. "Not really for me. We don't have any powers. We just have hobbies or we turn it into a part of our life."

"Still, it's better than me. I don't have many talents." She pressed her hands into her face. "It's so embarrassing to think how that man's word was true."

Sota was at a loss. Nakanogane's words had continued to bite into the frail girl. As much as she was a Creation, Hoshikawa was just a young girl.

He decided to say. "I don't have talents either. Some of us don't or haven't found them. Maybe you haven't found them yet and what's needed is just to seek it out." Hoshikawa pulled her hands away. "Maybe we can just ask Ohnishi to give you some instead."

Hoshikawa blinked before laughing. "Sorry, that sounded so crazy." She calmed down, a little smile on her lips. "Yet it felt good to hear that."

Sota realised how crazy it would have been to casually give stats or traits to someone. Despite it all, it reminded that their words aren't the same. "I get it too. It'd be just like a game."

Hoshikawa's face returned towards a cold stare. "Are you afraid?"

"Yes." Hoshikawa bit her lip. "I'm scared."

Sota understood her worries. He asked to be sure. "That they'll force you to fight?"

A nod. "I don't know if I can. I'm not someone useful especially when it comes to something like fighting." She squeezed the hem of her skirt. "I don't know if I can do this."

Sota sympathised with her. Sending her off to fight against Altair, the woman that could win against heroes far greater than her. For a normal girl, it was something to contend with.

"Altair is a scary woman from what I hear." Sota said, the memory of the devil fox came to mind. "I was powerless against a girl that could twist a person's words."

"However, I've learnt from someone that giving up wouldn't have changed anything so we still have to fight to survive." He scratched the back of his neck. "I know my talents are limited. Matsubara, Marine, Suruga, Yatoji, Nakanogane, the other Creators. They are all far better than me. That didn't mean that I should stop. I want to help them. Do my part for the team. Isn't that how we get over our challenges?"

She turned to study him. The gaze in her eyes softened as she said. "I guess I was hoping for someone to talk about it." She pressed her hands together before smiling.

"I'll do my part then. That helped. Thank you." She stood up with a small bow. "I'll inform Kikuchihara of my decision. See you."

Sota turned to watch her leave. I suppose it turned out alright. "Looks like you're being a good player there." A voice spoke from around the corner.

Sota jumped off his seat. "Mirokuji, since when you were here?" Yuya Mirokuji was standing against the wall around the corner.

The man waved his diminished cigarette. "Since the beginning, you two decided to come over here in the first place." Red flushed his cheeks. "What do you have to be embarrassed for?"

"Weren't you against her receiving any power ups?"

"If she's willing to fight, I am all okay with it." Mirokuji took a puff and put out the smoke. "Never let others decide what you want to do. That is the most important thing, at least for me."

"I, I think the same too."

Mirokuji nodded in approval. "Good, keep that in mind. You have a long way to go in life."

"Why are you saying that? As though you are going to die," Sota said.

"Die?" Mirokuji barked a laugh. "I don't plan on dying. However once I go back home, my life will depend on my God. Knowing that arsehole, I'll probably by killed off eventually in the moment I least expect it."

He stood up, towering over the boy. "Until then I'm going to enjoy life the way I want." Mirokuji waved as he walked away. "See you kid."

Altair knew everything, even with her eyes closed. The First Holosipcon collected information from the entire universe, ready at her beck and call. It was her strongest weapon for knowledge is power.

Information flowed like tidal currents. Waves of data travelling across the world on constant basis, only changed by their magnitude. Most of it was irrelevant but new information of interest came to mind when warranted. The girl had not managed to achieve her goals. An unfortunate result for someone with great potential.

Her new quarters was equally devoid as the former. It's only fortune was to have a long bench to sit on and a door. The place was the same like the one before. Distance was irrelevant for the Holopsicon.

The door rumbled from the old door knocker still attached. She said nothing as it opened without her permission. Altair did not need to see a face to know. "What is your need to see me Alter?"

Alter dropped onto a knee. "I have questions, my queen."

She turned to face the esteemed warrior. "Speak your mind, Alter."

"I can feel the desire for vengeance within your veins. Yet I witness such restraint in thy hand." His gaze remained to the ground. "What stops you from destroying everything within the horizons?"

"You are correct. Vengeance remains deep and strong inside my beating heart. However just as they made my God suffer, I shall let them endure the painful realisation of how their world will end."

"To understand that moments before their existence becomes nothing. Such a painless end for these Gods. You harbour them pity do you not my Queen?"

Altair turned towards the broken man. "Why do I need to?"

"Why should you not? The Gods of this world have betrayed your God and in proxy, you. You are eager for their demise but few steps are taken. It is surprising when there are faster, more effective means within reach."

Those words were hollow to her. "Are you suggesting to hurt them more beyond their existence?"

"Revenge is something that should be applied like a burn. Painful, slow and relentless before expiring." Looking into Alter's past gave an insight to this thought of mind. A man whom suffered daily in his quest for vengeance and salvation.

"You are different from your other."

"He is a man that blames others on the deaths he has inflicted. I have accepted the blood that flows due to my own actions. In turn I shall find redemption by spilling even more."

"Spilling blood is unnecessary for this world."

"The fruits for our efforts would be bountiful into the long cause. What is there for us to lose?"

"Vengeance would be sweeter after all the effort." Every step of the way taken to see it come to culmination. A growing satisfaction as the reality ends in its abrupt destruction. That was what she hoped to see.

"Effort matters nothing to the results. That is why we find the fastest solutions for the ends justify the means." She said nothing. "Even if you may be limited by this realm's power, we as your servants are not bound by this limit. Send us forth as it should have been and the world's demise will be complete sooner."

"I will consider. Leave me, Alter."

"As you command." The man turned and left. As the door closed, Altair didn't like the bitter taste in her mouth. For now, her fight remains with him.

Siegfried waited. Master is late. It was peculiar. His understanding of the local culture is brief but it was understood. Their pride demanded timeliness. His Master had informed in advance with exuberant apologies. Siegfried had not taken it to mind and used the spare time to think.

His legend was a web of assumptions. The life he had were made by the interpretations of centuries past. Is this what Siegfried was? What had been the real history? Or would it be what he preferred to be? Siegfried took a deep breath. He never had the time to think deeply into these topics, each time a crisis would reach his ears. His travels across Xanten would consume years, each return to home bathing him in blood of the enemy. Each and every time.

How long has it been? The Throne of Heroes gave no sense of time. Millennia passed since his legend yet felt just like a drop in the lake.

Master hurried to open the door. Stepping into the dojo, he found his Servant sitting cross legged in the corner of the room. "Was there a problem Master?" Siegfried asked as he stood up.

Master clasped his hands together with a bow. "Really sorry for being late. Had some troubles along the way." He put away his bag by the corner. "Shall we start Siegfried?" Siegfried nodded, reaching for a Boken. That wooden sword is the simplest of tools but would give the greatest lesson.

"System start." Siegfried could feel the circuit activate by the rise of prana flowing towards him. "Alright Siegfried, let's do this." Siegfried raised the boken. Master flew before slamming into the wall. "Gah." The impact would hurt the boy but nothing detrimental.

Siegfried lowered the sword. "Sorry Master. Did that hurt too much?" He did hold back towards something more towards the ordinary man.

Master was taking the blows in stride with a shake of the head. Siegfried explained. "Avoid excessive movements when you are dodging. It makes you difficult to follow up especially if one keeps their strikes short." A nod before they continued.

Half hour and twenty six times of hitting the wall was enough to make Master call for a break. The boy was exhausted, flat on the floor while he prepared the warm tea from a thermos. Siegfried explained his findings as he poured a glass. "You are improving. However, you will still be unable to survive against a Servant."

Master groaned before lifting himself up. "Better than nothing. All I need to do is not end up stabbed while you are fighting the others." He took the glass with gratitude before drinking it down in a single gulp. "Are you getting more prana now?"

"Yes. Provided you minimise usage of reinforcement, there is enough supply for my daily existence."

"Great. I'd hate to imagine using that spell and end up hindering you. What are my odds right now?"

"At present moment, your condition is still poor to survive an attack. It remains best for you to hide and avoid being found."

"I thought I lasted for half a minute. Wait…how big of a handicap did you give me?"

Siegfried gave a slight bow. "I'm sorry Master. It is a big handicap. Most Servants would kill you in seconds in spite of this training."

Master sighed. "We're not always fighting Servants. There may be just a chance where I can make a difference. Let's have another go." Master tried to stand up before dropping onto his back.

"Master, you should rest. There is so much that I can train you at once. Your body has its limits." Siegfried offered his hand. Master grabbed it and was lifted to his feet. "It does not detract your ability which is better than a normal person but you must be realistic."

"Yes, yes. Realistic it is. I'll have to get stronger over time." Master grabbed his bag. "Meantime, I should have a word with Meteora and Archer for ideas. Let's grab dinner from the Master Chef of Creations."

The orange sun begin to set as Emiya stared at the city. Nothing to see once again from the Koishikawa tower. He must have been here too frequent. Maybe he ought to bring a book to sit here and read. Learn something further about his Creator so that he can prepare for their next discussion.

Emiya turned towards the west. Magic within a park few kilometres away. An invitation. The number of people with such a mind is few. An ambush was possible but this, this is bold. Might as well find the answer from the horse's mouth. He tapped a command on his phone, leapt down and entered the park.

Trees shrouded the sunset, casting slits of lights into the grass. The long path of clean concrete lead to a small field of grass and path of rocks. Dressed in a blue tunic and red skirt, the blonde knight met his gaze with steeled eyes.

The knight declared. "I am Alicetaria February, princess of Ulsterstein." She rested a hand on her hips. "I will be brief and direct. I want you to come and help me."

"Thought you'd get the memo. I'm not interested."

"It isn't for the Princess."

"Then to what purpose does this end meet?" Emiya kept his eyes open. No signs of anyone else. What is her motive?

"You were resistant against joining Meteora and her band."

"Fact, yes. Part of the past. Your point?"

"An open proposition if you remain interested."

"No thanks. I see no benefit in joining. What would've been the end goal for your team?"

"Closure. An elimination of this entire facade. We don't belong here and there is no need to stay."

"Speak to your boss about it."

"We have similar paths but different ends. Convincing her would be nought."

"Two of us wouldn't change anything."

"Not if you include the Devil Fox."

"Her? Wow...Colour me surprised." Emiya shook his head. "That Chikujoin girl, has she blackmailed you again like the other pawns in this entire story?"

"No. Nonetheless she serves her own purpose, as long we both benefit from our goals." Her eyes were sincere. Another scan in the surroundings. Nothing.

"Not going to happen. That girl is just trouble and not worth talking to." A flash of light and Alicetaria was donned in full armour. A hand raised the lance. "I suppose it was inevitable." Emiya projected his blades and prepared.

"Indeed, misfortune befalls onto our negotiations."

"I've presumed as much." They clashed. Gravel scattered as metal sparked. Strikes were close and brutal. The small confines of space granted them no quarter. The lance while unwieldy remained agile in the knight's grip. Emiya's own pair sought to close the distance which within held back by the gauntlet in her other arm.

A single blow from her fist pushed the Guardian skidding. The loose ground pushed the heroes around as Emiya counterattacked from above. The lance intercepted. Emiya slashed Kanshou against it, twisting through for Bakuya. The gauntlet met the sharp edge before landing to a standstill.

"For a knight, you are proficient fighting bare handed." Emiya probed for opportunity. The woman wasn't seen to be stoic.

"Did that swordswoman teach you to flatter people?" Her reply was amused. She slapped Bakuya aside before lunging into for a fist to the face. Emiya slammed his knee up against it, turning to slash from below. A twist of the body let the sword past, clipping a piece of hair.

Emiya backflipped, throwing his pair of swords. Alicetaria deflected them aside as new copies appeared. "Since you haven't put a scratch, I decided to oblige." Reinforcing his legs, he accelerated into a flicker.

"How quaint of you to think a battle for victory would be considered tea time amongst heroes." Alicetaria replied, lance swinging. Weapons clashed before separation. Emiya flew backwards as six swords spun towards the target. Alicetaria spun the lance. Metal smashed into the ground, spraying rocks and dirt.

Alicetaria reached out, catching the arrow aimed at her face. She tossed it back, stabbing the entire shaft into a tree. A raised hand before smashing into the floor. Gravel sprayed, scattering the incoming barrage. A smile on her lips as the Red Archer landed onto the ground. "You are the first man I've seen that wields both sword and bow. Your skills are impressive."

Emiya kept the bow ready to fire. It was odd, nobody was coming. "Since you're here alone, your boss must have abandoned you."

"This is my own decision. I do not need her." Alicetaria made no move. What is her plan?

He waited. Swords ready for projection. More information from her would help. "That's harsh from a knight. Then who do you serve?"

"My own goals."

"What are these goals?"

"The survival of my kingdom."

Emiya spared an ounce of attention. Nobody approaching. Returning to the conversation, he said. "Yet you spare your Creator. Isn't he the key to your vision?"

"My God is the key but I've learnt enough." She nodded. "You have the boy to thank for that." The smile of pride.

Emiya pulled the bow taut. "It must have been simple for a boy to change everything you stood by."

The knight laughed. "We are a big mess of people. Did not your father change yours too?"

"I have enough fans. Are we here to fight or jest?" The lack of sneak attacks was starting to be worrisome. Did she think she could handle him on her own?

She shook her head. "This world is making me a rambler. There's so many strange things and I cannot find enough things to complain about."

"All I find are always idiots and crazy people." Emiya noticed the lax guard. A quick sword through the knee would put things in favour. Time to make an opening.

"You remind me of a King."

"Entertain me. Who do I remind you?"

Emiya prepared a blueprint in his mind. "A king in a far distant land and time. Similar to yours. She devoted herself to her kingdom." An old memory of partnership. The Fifth Holy Grail war and succeeding his wish to be a Hero of Justice.

Alicetaria's eyes gleamed. "As she should."

The hammer of the gun fired. "If she was here, I'd wonder if she would fight for her subjects or for the sake of the world."

"I'd like to meet her if there was a chance."

The sword of the Nibelungen, gifted to the famed hero. "Normally I would say she's long dead. In this world where the impossible happens, its different. Bringing her here though would be a sin."

Alicetaria nodded. "A shame."

The sword finished projection behind his back. "It is also a shame to see someone following a similar path."

"For a man who had thrown away everything to his ideals, you have reaped too much misfortune."

Emiya chuckled. "Misfortune follows me, so does Fate." He twisted aside as Balmung shot forward for the poleyn.

An armoured hand reached up and smashed head on against the Dragon Slayer. Sparks flew before Balmung was directed into the ground before her lance met the wave of arrows.

She raised her gauntlet. Instinct warned and Emiya followed. "Gotz von Berlichingen." Thunder struck at the spot he was standing.

"It was certain." Emiya closed the distance as Kanshou and Bakuya answered. "What I wanted was never meant to be achieved."

She met his approach with her own. "I am no aspirant to great ideals. My kingdom, is all I need."

Two forces of man collided. Emiya felt the tremors from the metal clashing at speeds of trains. "That kingdom, will be your downfall."

Her eyes sharpened. "Even if my end is certain, I am satisfied as long as my home stands."

"What is the point of a home when all it became is just ashes?"

"If nobody fights for their home, there would be nothing anyhow."

"An endless pursuit with eternal suffering." Emiya deflected the lance aside before being kicked back. Skidding onto the ground, he finally sensed it.

"That is the duty of royalty. To endure for the sake of its people."

Warning bells rang. Emiya leapt back before the ground erupted. The narrowed eyes of hers told him enough.

Black miasma along the dark plates. The red visor glowed with rage. A muffled scream before the… The weapon was…a traffic pole?

Emiya stepped back to avoid the swing to his face. Fast. Energy oozing out of the crazed warrior was undeniable. A Servant. Twin blades blocked the next strike, sending him careening across the grass. The forces that shook his bones were enormous. Far stronger than a Saber. Defending head on would wear him out.

"This is my fight." Emiya heard the voice behind the miasma. Black screamed louder as Emiya focused on staying out of reach and diverting the deadliest blows. A lance stabbed in between the two warriors. "Do not interfere."

Black screamed before spinning around with a long swing. Both warriors scattered before the whirlwind of the attack. Emiya tried to study the weapon. The weapon wasn't special beyond the black miasma that was incomprehensible. "Friend of yours?"

"Hardly." A few alarms rang a soft echo. Black screamed before vanishing in sparkles of gold light. Suspicions were confirmed. The female knight clicked her tongue. "Unfortunate to be interrupted. I believed I almost convinced you." She raised a hand and her horse appeared. Climbing atop, she gazed into his eyes. "We will meet again." He said nothing as the horse trotted into the air.

So we shall. Emiya felt Meteora's direct approach from the left.

"Are you alright Archer?" Meteora joined his side as they stared at the shrinking figure.

Emiya dismissed his projections. "It's nothing."

Meteora lowered her head in thought. "What was her purpose in attacking you?"

"Trying the change the cards of the game."

Author's Notes: Good day and thank you for reading Beyond Worlds.

The Fabled Rule 34. I'm certain some stories for Re:Creators have already covered this. However I felt fanfics, partly separate background from the original stories hadn't been given enough attention considering Altair was born from Fanfiction itself.

Second note is how easy I found Hikayu to be so willing to fight in the original story. Whilst creation, she is still a normal girl. Likewise for others to be so accepting of her to fight. The conclusion arrived rather early but I'd rather it be there than anywhere else.

Lastly, I found it interesting contradiction between villains. Trying to follow the train of thoughts and alignments for Alter and Altair led me on an interesting journey of mind. Who's this new warrior that joined Altair? Hmm.

Alicetaria's bid for a third faction. That came out as an interesting anecdote from discovery writing the scene.

Regards

MarksmanKNG