Fate: paradisus Scramble

by Blazrman

Siesta, The city of utopian paradise... or what's left of it. Eventually, it has become a new battleground for the Holy Grail War thanks to the efforts of the American Mages Association. A young magus from Japan travels to take part in order to win and kill the competition all for a wish. But conspiracies travels with estranged rumors that hold a much darker secret to this war.

6. Embroiled Conspiracy II - Innocent Sin

The following story is a [FAN-FICTION]! All Fate series are all owned by TYPE-MOON and its respective owners. Please support the official franchise.

Fate/paradisus Scramble

Embroiled Conspiracy II: Innocent Sin

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2/26/2024 Ornstein Manor, Elysium, Siesta City Midnight - Clear Sky

Third Person POV

Meanwhile somewhere within the districts of Siesta where another high-class area is detected similar to Fairdale Hills. But this district is known as Elysium where it has been a home to Siesta City's own Soccer team known as the Siesta Servals. But that team was long gone just a few months ago while the Siesta Stadium remains there but abandoned. But somewhere within the mountains with the trees covered all over… there was a particular manor residing there. But inside the manor was some sort of a workshop filled with old-fashioned things, wood-carved furniture, art paintings, tools, and many more. However, there was a particular woman with long brown hair where she was seen sitting on a stool, holding her wooden paint tray in hand as she dipped her brush onto the color and proceeded to paint in this dimly lit room. But, a staff with a floating blue spiked crystal-like object was hovering on the staff's inner ring as it was leaning against the wall. There, a small young girl wearing a beautiful white dress, white hat with a red ribbon on the top of it, black long gloves that reached to her arms, long black wavy hair, yellow-green eyes, and wore her red coat over her white dress but not completely as if she wears it like a cape. She even has her cane with the designs of it being a batwing but it was slightly golden. Though, her hair is left hanging free with sections flipping upwards. However, she was doing her noble posture as she does her best to keep still as the young beautiful woman… a Servant who was seen doing some finishing touches with the paint.

"Aaand… Done! Would you like to see the final art piece, Master?" The Servant asked her young Master as she was excited and interested to see what she looks like in the painting.

"Yeah!" The young little Master happily skipped to see. As she did, she was impressively amazed by her Servant's skill of art. It was indeed a painting of herself all done by her. And yet, it was nearly perfect. "It looks amazing. Thank you, Caster!"

"Think nothing of it." Caster chuckled a little as she stood up from her stool. "Now then, my pupil. I do have some news to share about what's going on regarding this war."

"Really now? Can you tell me about this situation?" The young Master asked her as Caster opened the windows as she lends out her arms, only for her mechanical bird to perch on her arm.

"From my bird that told me that the Holy Grail War has been put to a halt by a new Overseer named Mario Gallo Bestino. Based on the reasons why… There's apparently a Dead Apostle running amok within the city." Caster explained the situation as she closes the window and gets her bird to rest within the large cage.

"A Dead Apostle?" The young Master asked in question.

"From what I know according to what Mario said. They're supposed to be monsters who discarded their humanity in exchange for destruction. Sounds rather ominous, to say at least." Caster said as she then looked at her Master who was looking at the painting. "Ahh. Still staring at the painting I made, have you?"

"It still amazes me that you're good at everything you do." The young Master said in astonishment as she nodded with a smile.

"Of course, I am a universal genius. Now then, Master. Now the war has been halted. Perhaps it is the time for us to seek new allies. This would increase our chances in victory against this supposed Dead Apostle. Isn't it a great idea I came up with?" Caster said with one eye closed while smiling, convincing her Master the idea of seeking allies.

"Allies? Now that you mentioned it… It's been five days since I've summoned you because my father wanted me to win this war in my family's name of Ornstein. But perhaps you're right." The young Master then looked at her Servant. "Are there any particular allies we can hopefully find?"

"Hmm… I may suggest this person named Ryuga Ashikaga. He is the Master of Rider. In fact, I did see him from afar during my wonderful reconnaissance when he summoned his Servant. Perhaps, he might be the right person to help us. Don't you think so?" Caster suggested the idea about Ryuga to her Master. She gave it some quick thoughts on the whole idea. But after that… she made up her mind.

"Very well, Caster. I shall accept your idea on finding this Master of Rider. We will find him starting tomorrow. And before I go to sleep… Caster! I demand tomato juice! I need to be refreshed and replenished for the morning!" The young Master demanded her Servant to be provided with a bottle of tomato juice that the Master's Ornstein homunculus had bought for her and her only. Though, the Servant Caster simply sighed and shrugged at this moment as she couldn't help it. A young girl with nobility with love towards the taste of tomato juice. And so, the night finally comes to an end. But their search for Ryuga and to deal with the new threat has only begun.

Meanwhile somewhere within the abandoned hotel apartment in San Aldecado was a certain young pink haired girl who was seen sucking blood off of an innocent person. Just as she finished doing so, she tossed the body away to satisfy the taste of a man's blood. However, behind her was a group of mindless corpses standing on their own as she apparently controls them. But her face was obscured by the darkness. All she could do was lick her lips and smile. Knowing that her hunt has started.

---

OPENING ACT 2 - spiral by DUSTZ [TV Size] (Blood-C)

*Theme plays*

The theme plays as it shows the first scene of Ryuga drowning under the ocean as there were pieces of shattered glass showing reflections of unknown Masters and Servants in Siesta until he slowly opens his eyes to see the mysterious silhouette of a woman reaching her hand out to him as he proceeds to reach her hands until the scene transitions.

Samayou trap in endless night

Sonzai jitai ni imi ushinai

Modorenai kako don't you dare to know

The next scene shows him waking up as he was sitting on the couch in the main living room in the Forvedge residence during the morning where he yawned quickly and stood up as he was preparing to leave as he called Nagao to come with him as Fiore appears and informs him. He nodded as he left the door with his Servant in tow.

Kuzureru all things that I believe

Genjitsu mitakunai kurai hibi

Nukedasenai joukyou don't know where to go

The next scene shows Ryuga and his Servant as they were walking down the populated streets of Pacifica Square as the scene switches to the two at the mountain shrine in New Hiroshima as Nagao was seen praying as Ryuga watches her as he felt the wind breeze from behind as he turned around to see the view of the city in daytime where Svin was seen taking the stone stairs down to leave the shrine as the next scene shows the Ophelia and True Caster sitting on a seat of a limousine down the city streets.

Do you know that hope is fake in this world

And despair is the only truth I've got

Yami wo kirisaite

Then the next scene shows Yu Meiren standing alone on the skyscraper during the night as the breeze blows her hair by the wind as she holds two long daggers on each hand with a serious look on her face. Then the next scene shows Mario Gallo Bestino walking down the empty streets in the residential area of Fairdale Hills as he had a smirk on his face. Then the next scene shows Bryce, Ophelia, and Cidolfus with their respective Servants as there were soldiers behind them but it shows Bryce's sinister smirk on his face.

Mugendai sewashinai why I must bleeding

Nigerenai melancholy

Genkai agaiteru hakkyou sunzen

Because it will never end

Then the scene transitions to a battle of Nagao and Another Assassin exchanging blows with their weapons as sparks fly and steel clash each other as the another battle shows Achilles and Melusine clashing each other as the two fought at breakneck speeds until a powerful collision of their weapons created a massive destruction within the area. Then the next scene shows Berserker roaring in rage to attack Baobhan Sith as she fires dark pink bolts at her enemy until True Archer intervenes from afar as it fires raining bolts of arrows as the two dodged as it caused more destruction.

J'ai plus rien à croire

Cette vie, qu'est-ce qui a à voir

Kanawanai this suffering

The next scene shows Ryuga using his knife given by his sister to defend himself from Yu Meiren's attack as he blocks her attacks as more sparks fly as the two clash more of their weapons as they come face to face. Then the next scene shows Vasil with Another Rider Hephaestion as he was on her chariot with his Servant riding it in the sky as she was dodging blue arrows that was homing on her chariot as it was shot by True Archer as Ophelia was next to her Servant to see the arrows explode in mid air like explosive fireworks.

Mugendai kowashitai That's my last scream

Sakerenai reality

No pain no gain zettai kousei if really there is an end

Then the next scene shows Nagao being surrounded by an army of BlackSteel soldiers with their weapons ready. She readied her spear and katana as she dashed quickly into battle as the soldiers quickly fired at her but the soldiers were getting brutally eviscerated one by one as blood flies and splatter everywhere. The scene slows a bit to show the soldier's body being sliced in half with blood spilling out everywhere to show Nagao's inhuman smile during the night.

A quoi je m'attends

Apocalypse maintenant

Kawaranai this suffering world

Then the next scene to show the smoke that was being cleared off by the wind as it showed Ryuga kneeling on the ground as he was beaten as there was Bryce and Melusine standing on the top of the hill looking down on him until Ryuga noticed to see Nagao lending out her hand as he accepts it. The two then charge towards their opponent with their weapons ready as the scene finally shifts to the spear and katana stabbed on the sand near the beach during the sunrise.

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?/?/? The Vision of Dreams

First Person POV

I was once again standing there. But, this is more of the past. From what I can tell, the room is very feudal. And I saw a familiar person who was kneeling on the floor. And there was another person there as well. I can't tell who it is due to the scribbles as I can't even describe what he looks like. Nagao was kneeling on the floor with both legs as she was seen talking to that man.

Harukage: "Kagetora, I've decided to make you the head of the clan now."

Kagetora: "Thank you, Brother. I promise I'll take good care of it."

Harukage: "I'm sorry, Brother… I wish I could've governed Eichigo on my own… But I'm afraid I just wasn't up to the task…"

The brother of Kagetora known as Harukage was coughing and hacking from his throat as he was feeling unwell. Something has happened to him. However, there was a female figure who was sitting next to Harukage. I assume it must be Aya.

Aya: "It's okay, Brother. Please, rest. You can go, Kagetora. I'll take it from here."

Kagetora: "All right. Please take good care of yourself, Brother."

Kagetora stood up and left the room as I followed her. She slid the door closed as she decided to overhear the conversation.

Harukage: "Aya, I… I'm scared of Kagetora… Even after all that time studying at the temple, she hasn't changed a bit from how she was a child."

Aya: "Don't be silly, Brother. Of course she has. She has embraced the ways of Buddhism, studied the sutras, and become a humble, unfailingly polite warrior."

Harukage: "Embraced the ways of Buddhism? You can't possibly believe that. You know as well as I do that she has no soul! She's just imitating the way she thinks humans are supposed to behave! But her eyes… Those are the eyes of a monster beyond human ken. I fear those eyes… just like Father did…"

Aya: "…You should get some rest, Brother."

Harukage: "Even now… I fear Kagetora's eyes far more than I do the gods or the Buddha…"

Upon listening to the conversation from the room. Kagetora opens her mouth a little to her surprise. But she was still smiling. But, her eyes changed as well as she started to act strange.

Kagetora: "Ahaha… Ahahahahaha!"

She was laughing out of control throughout the night. She's my only Servant that I have and can rely on. But seeing her past like this… Everything is strange. And so… my vision begins to fade into darkness as the sounds mutes quickly.

---

2/27/2024 Forvedge Residence, Willowton, Siesta City Morning - Very Cloudy

I began to wake up from this dream… or was it? It was more like a vision of Rider's past. I was seen in my own bedroom that Fiore has provided me. It was clean but nothing special. It was morning coming from the sunlight at the window. However… as I begin to check my surroundings. I was met with my Servant Rider… Nagao Kagetora. She was kneeling on the floor, smiling kindly as she looked at me.

"Good morning, Master. Did you have a good sleep from last night?" Rider said to me as I looked at her. Yet, I wasn't surprised.

"Morning…" I replied to her as I grabbed my hunting knife as I took it and put it into my pocket. "You were watching me throughout my sleep, didn't you?"

"Of course I did. After all, you did sleep soundly aside from you tossing and turning on the bed." Rider said casually as I sat on the bed with both legs crossed. I didn't want to respond to this but I wanted to talk to her… Seeing visions of her past. Is this the reason why I became a Master? None of this makes sense.

"Uh huh… Anyways." I stood up from my bed and offered her my hand. "I was hoping you need my help getting up from the hard wooden floor."

However, she shook her head as she got up without using her hands.

"No need, Master. I can handle it." Rider reassured me as I let down my hand. She was still, all and all, smiling.

But a smile that respects me as a person. Yet, she's a Servant and I'm the Master. I couldn't help but look at her face. If her brother is so scared of her, then why does her expression seem so natural for some reason? And there's another answer that pops into my mind. Aya… Her own sister is worried over her because of the way Rider thinks and acts. She was the one who got her into Buddhism. She had reassured the brother that everything's fine. But truthfully, it wasn't working out well. But Rider seems to be more kind towards me in some sense. The more I look at her, the more I begin to understand beyond this reason.

"Hmm? Is there something on my face?" Rider asked me in confusion.

"Oh no, it's nothing. L-Let's head downstairs. Fiore made breakfast so I was hoping if you want to join in?" I asked her as she thought over a second but spoke and looked at me.

"Usually, we Servants don't eat or drink since we're Heroic Spirits. However, I prefer to drink sake as my kind of thing. If we were to go to the same place in New Hiroshima? Would you care to try some?" Rider asked me about it when we first went there. When Reginald found us when we were just trying to pass time.

"Sorry, Rider. I'm not into alcohol like you do." I replied to her as she simply had a smug look on her face.

"Heh…?~ You seriously don't want to drink the finest Japanese sake that this city has so much to offer? That's too bad, Master. More for me, I guess." Rider said in a teasing tone as I sighed as I was ready to head out the room. I signaled Rider to follow me as we both went downstairs in this house. As we did, we headed to the dining room where we saw Fiore who had already cooked up some breakfast for me to eat. Of course, she needs to eat as well. Besides, the food for me and her is on the table. I sat on the table as Rider stood there to watch over me. But, Fiore had turned off the stove as she sat on the seat just to look at her.

"Good morning, Ryuga. Did you have a good sleep?" Fiore kindly said to me as I yawned a little.

"I did. So… I guess this is some sort of a…" I said to her as I looked at my breakfast.

"Brown rice and vegetables. I learned it from one of the cooking books that I have on my phone. After all, I'm still learning so I hope you'll like it." Fiore then smiled at me as I decided to have a bite as I used the spoon to give it a taste.

"Huh… The taste is not bad, the texture is good… I think you nailed it well, Fiore. Gotta hand it to you." I praised her for the way she made this food despite it's breakfast in the morning. She lightly covered her mouth and giggled.

"Thank you. Then again, I'm still improving overtime." Fiore continued as she ate her food, swallowing it. "Say… Is there anything going on in this war? Anything new?"

"Sadly yes. The new Overseer of the war announced that the Holy Grail War is to be temporarily halted due to the appearance of this Dead Apostle." I said to her as she was rather surprised when I said it.

"Wait… did you just say 'Dead Apostle'?" Fiore asked. "I remember hearing stories about them within my family. Including my Brother who was studying at the Clock Tower at the time."

"So you know…" I continued. "Then I suggest you should stay at home. It's too dangerous for you to go outside. I don't wanna imagine what this Dead Apostle does or will do. But what I can feel is rather gut-wrenching to an extent."

"You think so? All these Servants fighting each other have caused way too much destruction. You saw what happened in the Nashwood district." Fiore reminded me of it.

I remember that moment. The golden light that pierced the sky…

"I know… To think a golden light like this almost wiped out the entire district…" I said to her as I finished up eating my food. "And… thank you for the food."

"It's no problem. While I still need to finish mine… Are you going to head out again?" She said to me as I stood up as I grabbed my bowl and cleaned it up, putting it where it can dry off and grabbing the bottle of water from the fridge and drinking it.

"Yeah. I am. I'm going to explore for a little while. Not sure if I can come back but… since the Overseer has initiated a manhunt for a Dead Apostle to hunt. Seems I have no choice." I said with reassurance as I began to leave.

"But… promise me that you'll return. Will you?" Fiore said I stopped there and heard her words.

Background Music | Persona 3 OST - Joy

"I promise." I replied as me and Rider left the house as we began to make our way out of the house in order to figure out where we fit into this situation now that the Dead Apostle is in the city to cause trouble. Mario seems to know a lot about these vampires. Wouldn't it be ironic if they burn in broad daylight?

"Master." Rider said to me as we were walking down the street. "If I make a suggestion. If this new enemy we face. I say we take this Dead Apostle head on. Surely our chances to secure this victory will reward you that fourth Command Seal. Is it not?"

Right, the fourth Command Seal will be awarded to anyone who kills the Dead Apostle. Fighting that monster will prove to be an extreme disadvantage for a Master. But if you let the Servant do the job, things might become a bit easier. Rider could easily decimate a Dead Apostle. But I have yet to see her Noble Phantasm just yet. So, I spoke.

"I know. But we don't know who that Dead Apostle is. Plus, I'm not too sure if getting a fourth command seal is ever a good idea. I'd rather give it to someone else." I never cared for it, honestly. Why would I even bother getting a 4th seal? I still have 3 remaining so I'm good. At one point. I might use one if things get bad. But for now, there are no plans to do in the day aside from making plans at night.

"Don't be like that, Master! On top of that. I should take that head of a vampire and present it to you as a trophy." Rider suggested the idea in the most disturbing way… Servants in the past do think really differently…

"No thanks. I'm good." I quickly replied with a sweatdrop and an unimpressed look. But I maintained my cool as I began to think. "But if we're going to hunt down that Dead Apostle… I think I need you to do some reconnaissance for me. You can do that, right?"

"Hmm… Very well, Master! Leave this to me. After all, Bishamonten-" I interrupted her words.

"Bishamonten's blessing is with you…" So, I finished her sentence as she smiled.

"Indeed. After all, even you don't pray. You just need some of that blessing to give you an edge when it comes to battling. So rest assured, Master. Leave all of this to me!" Rider said with confidence as I started to understand her way… She's fearless, I tell you what.

However, we noticed something following us from behind during our walks. We stopped and saw what's behind us… It was a black limousine arriving as it stopped next to us. The window moves down much to our confusion of what's going on. But inside that vehicle was none other than a young black haired girl, sitting on the seat as she was looking at us.

"Oya~? Oya oya~? To think I'd see your face by now here in this scorching broad daylight, and exposing your Command Seal on the back of your right hand along with that strange white-haired woman. 'Tis must be fate, is it not. Are you perchance… Ryuga Ashikaga?"

"…That I am. How did you know about me?" I asked her as I kept my composure and stance as she seemed aware.

"You can lower your hostility, knave. I have no interest in fighting you at night now that the Overseer has halted the war all thanks to that Dead Apostle. Now then… please step inside. We have so much to talk about." The young girl said as one of her stewards opened the door for us as we had no choice. Me and Rider stepped inside as the steward closed the door and took the wheel. "Now, allow me to introduce myself. I am Irina Alucard Ornstein, I represent the Master of Caster in this war."

"Wait a second… Caster? There's already a Caster in this war. The woman named Bazett is the Master of Caster. Are you making up lies?" I pressed her in order to figure out about this girl. But she wasn't too pleased.

"Hmph! How uncouth you are. To think you assume the wrongest way possible by accusing me with lies? You're indeed a dolt… It seems you're not aware about the real truth of why there are two same classes in the war. My Servant was already aware that the Grail had some sort of the reserve system activated as part of her speculation. Or perhaps why the two Lancers were duking it out that caused the destruction of Nashwood." Irina explained the whole thing about why there are two classes… But Two Lancers? I get the feeling that I'm starting to connect the dots here.

"Wait, wait, wait… so… About Nashwood… you said there were two Lancers fighting each other? Can you tell what they look like?" I asked her as she thought clearly.

"There was one with green hair and the other that looked dragon-like that could transform into… well, a dragon. I can confirm that the dragon had activated its Noble Phantasm which caused a wide destruction of Nashwood." Irina described the two Servants as I started to recall those memories.

That Servant with green hair… That's Lancer. The one that my Servant fought against. His speed was rather unparalleled compared to my Rider. He was a troublesome foe. And the other… she said that it was a girl that can transform into a dragon? That, I don't understand.

"Master. This young girl is telling the truth. She knows that I fought that green-haired Lancer." Rider speaks as she remembers it well. But to think that this girl knows everything… I need to ask her.

"About the green-haired Lancer, Irina." I continued. " Does he have a Master or something?"

"Yes… Unfortunately. Lancer has a Master but she was killed by another Master." Irina said as I began to understand…

Those words Mario said… The Master of Lancer by the name of Meifang was killed. Dead. Now I begin to understand…

"I see. Either way, a war's a war. Everyone dies if they're not careful enough. At some point, I might kill a Master, too." I said to her as she looked at me with a thinking gesture on her face.

"Even if the Dead Apostle is killed… You intend to go after me? A child?" Irina said. Now this was a hard question… magus families had the audacity to send their child off to a ritual of the Holy Grail War. The world is indeed cruel and harsh. Even in today's society, too. "And just so you know, knave. I have no intention of taking part in the war. All I wanted to see was see how the war goes through."

"But don't you have a wish?" I asked her.

"My father does. I am to carry his wish to bring about my Ornstein family's name to restore its honor and glory." Irina said as I was curious to know why.

"Your father?" I asked.

"Indeed. He wants me to win the war. However… I don't want to… He's a ruthless father, I know. Even my mother knows his boundaries when it comes to him abusing my mother… I can't forgive him… Being born within nobility can be a blessing… and a curse." Irina said as she looked down on herself. Deep down, I understand why she was sent by his father. He was corrupt, abusive, willing to get what he wanted. Even to the point to send his child away to win the war for him. Her father… He's really a piece of shit. I was reminded when Rider's father wanted to send him away because of her unnatural smile and the way she acts. One father can be this evil and the other father can be feared by Rider.

"Are all mages this evil?" I asked her as she looked at me with a stern face.

"There's no denying the fact that mages will do anything to kill to get what they want. After all, you and I are magus are we not? If you intend to use magecraft in public. They would surely find out and worse… put you to death." Irina warned me about the risks when it comes to using your magecraft in broad daylight. I mean… my magecraft ability is kinda worthless. My 'Hotwiring' proves nothing in particular. After all, a certain magus taught me when I was a kid.

"Ahem… Aside from revealing magecraft to the public. I want to go back to the topic at hand. You said your father sent you right? Would it make sense if I were to slay your father?" I asked her about the idea as she widened her eyes in surprise but quickly maintained her composure. She wasn't too happy.

"A-Are you daft!? You can't be so sure if you're so keen on killing my father. Besides…" Irina then looked the other way a little as her expression changed. "I should be the one to rebel against him… My mother was sent to a hospital in Frankfurt because of him. I won't forgive him for what he has done but to stain the family's name with his own corruption. I hate my father… I really do…"

So she admits it. She does want to kill her own father. I mean, she is from a magus family but to think that she lives a life being abused and used by her own father shows that people are really sick in their mind. Compared to my life, I only lived with my grandmother to work at a rice cracker shop that she runs. Most of all, I have a sister as well but… She was killed right in front of my eyes. I'm going to find that bastard. And when I do… I'll finally avenge her and my mission will be complete. But my wish remains unchanged. I WILL bring her back to life. Even if it kills me. I won't give up.

Ornstein Manor, Elysium, Siesta City Afternoon - Very Cloudy

As many minutes have passed through a simple ride to her home. We arrived as the vehicle stopped in the driveway through the gate. Located in the other parts of the city. This must be the Elysium district. Similar to Fairdale hills. Nothing is to be said in particular. Me, Rider, and Irina got off the vehicle as I looked at the manor. Looks huge. To think that this manor has three floors… who built this place?

"Mistress. We have arrived." Her steward said to her as she nodded.

"Thank you." Irina continued as she shifted her eyes at me. "Now then, Ryuga. Shall we go meet my Servant? She resides at her own workshop but will help us in order to defeat this Dead Apostle. While she is busy at times. She's the only Servant I can trust."

"Caster, right? Honestly… I'm not surprised your manor doesn't even have a Bounded Field. Did you forget to tell your Servant to do that?" I asked her as she spoke.

"Perhaps you haven't felt it. Of course the Bounded Field has been set up by my Servant in case an intruder like a Servant steps into my domain. Now then, let us make haste. I prefer not to waste any time talking." Irina said as I scratched the back of my head.

"I must say, Master. To think a young girl living in this grandeur is rather surprising to say the least. Maybe we should move in with her. I wonder if they have some finest Japanese sake here." Rider said as she had a smug look on her face as I sighed.

"No, Rider. We already have a new home. Plus, I made a promise to her that I would come back after the night. Have you already forgotten?" I said to her as she didn't realize. And to that… What has my life gotten into?

As soon as we headed to the second floor where the supposed workshop was seen through the door. Irina opened it as we all entered inside. The room is filled with tools and painting. So, she called out her Servant.

"Caster. I have brought this man and his Servant. Of course, this is Ryuga Ashikaga that you have asked." Irina said to her Servant as we saw what's there. There was a young woman with brown hair as she turned around to look at us. Her clothing is that from the Italian renaissance era as her face seems familiar. While she has blue eyes and a beautiful face. I can't remember where that face is from. Again, it feels way too familiar.

"Ahh, Master. Welcome back. It seems you brought in the right person that I ask for. As for your reward… Ta-da!~" Caster then shows off a bottle of… tomato juice. However, this made Irina excited as she happily approached it and grabbed the bottle.

"Tomato juice!~ Thank you, Caster! With it, I shall drink it with pride and dignity!" Irina then proceeds to drink down the bottle as quickly as she can. Just as she did… she felt refreshed and began to heighten her ego. "Ahahaha… Ahahaha! Ahahahahaha!~ I am reborn once more! My body is now brimming with such strength, I could wipe out the entire Masters out and obtain the Grail ourselves!~"

As if you could do that…

Background Music | Persona 3 OST - Mistic

"Do forgive my Master. She's not a fan of going outside in broad daylight. But seeing her drinking her favorite tomato juice. I can understand why it's her favorite all the time. Now then, where are my manners… I am a Servant Caster. You have met Irina Ornstein, the young girl who is my Master." Caster then continued as she interrupted me from what I was going to say. "I already know who you are, Ryuga Ashikaga. You are the Master of Rider. Or rather… True Rider."

"True Rider?" I said in confusion as I looked at my Servant. She shrugged.

"Of course, you are the Master of True Rider. Unlike that other one. It's easier to call that one Another Rider since the Holy Grail War allows two of the same classes. I can already assume that there is another Caster such as me. But definitely a different Caster." Caster explained as I was reminded about Bazett. She is also a Master of Caster. "However, I am considered a True Caster in this war."

"So if you're the True Caster. That means the other Caster is none other than 'Another Caster'. Is that right? The difference between True and Another?" I asked her about this small theory as she nodded.

"Corretta." True Caster continued. "Though, I always had an idea to call these two classes the same classes under the 'True' and 'False' category. But, the Masters are willing to call their Servants 'Another' so I went with it."

"Indeed. Which is why she calls herself True Caster for a reason." Irina joined in when she spoke.

"Now, with things out of the way. I suppose I'll reveal my True Name. Honestly, I have no interest in taking part in this war since people are willing to fight themselves to obtain the Holy Grail. Ahem! While my name is True Caster. My True Name is none other than Leonardo Di Vinci! Otherwise, you may call me Di Vinci-chan.~" As True Caster decided to reveal her name right in front of us… She straight up revealed her name! This makes no sense!

"You're lying…" I said in a quick response.

"Oh? Would this convince you otherwise?" True Caster then pointed over there as I saw a very familiar painting… I was shocked.

"N-No way… Is that the painting of Mona Lisa…!? It looks so similar!" I was way too shocked to see the uncanny resemblance. I looked back at True Caster as she nodded as she puffed her chest with pride.

"Do you believe me now? That painting is none other than mine! After all, I am a universal genius. Not only can I paint, I can do all sorts of things in common. Even magecraft itself.~" True Caster then continued. "I know you're curious why I'm summoned as a woman instead of a man as I'm supposed to, sì?"

"I mean… Leonardo is supposed to be a man, right?" I asked her.

"I am. But, I prefer to be summoned as a beautiful woman, of course. I used the Mona Lisa as an example to become what I am now. Tell me, Ryuga… Am I pretty?~" True Caster uses her body to flirt with me as I become blushed and flustered, quickly looking the other way.

"P-Please don't flirt with me… I'm a virgin…" I said in embarrassment.

"Master… Are you okay? Being seduced by this woman?" Rider said to me as I shudder.

"Y-Yeah… I'm fine…" I replied but I immediately calmed down and looked back at True Caster. "Anyways… Di Vinci… I'm not here for your seduction. Just tell me why you really need me, exactly?"

"Hmm… I suppose I might as well throw fun out the window and straight to the point." True Caster then takes a deep breath once as she begins to explain as I looked at her. "The reason why I called you here is because… Me and my Master are looking to make an alliance with you.

"An alliance? Why? Aren't we enemies?" I asked.

"In your perspective, yes. Now that the Dead Apostle has arrived to cause all sorts of trouble within the city. The Holy Grail War has been halted by the Overseer Mario. Which gives me an idea to work together on how to take down that vampira. After all, this will benefit both of us." True Caster said her point with the idea of having to team up with the Master of True Caster and her Servant.

"Just how are you planning this, exactly? First, you wanted to seek me out and second, you want to hunt down the Dead Apostle with my help? If I were to guess… you want to have your Master to receive the 4th Command Seal?" I asked her as Irina then spoke up.

"Well… I wasted one about two nights ago…" Wait, seriously? She wasted one? As soon she pulled the long gloved sleeves from her right hand. She showed off her Command Seal to me. The mark took on an image of a bat wing but one seal was already used. "During my first scouting mission… I had to forcefully summon Caster to me to fend off the Assassin."

"Wait, did you just say Assassin? We just eliminated one not too long ago. Damn it… This is getting nowhere. Can you describe what it looks like?" I asked her as Irina then thought and had a vision of what Assassin would be like…

"A figure in black who wears a white skull mask." Just as Irina described. I begin to recall that previous battle with the Assassin. The white skull mask definitely brings up the whole reason as I begin to understand.

"Damn it… to think that the Assassin was thought to be eliminated from the war… There's more?" I was wrong. Assassin is still in the war. With Irina's perspective on the encounter with her first enemy. She had to use her command seal to call forth her Servant to drive it away.

"Though, Master. It was unwise of you exploring alone in the night. To think you had to use one of your seals… Perhaps it's best if you stay at home. But in the daytime, you'll have some free reign." True Caster informed her Master as she will be more careful next time. "Now back to the topic at hand-"

"Fine. I'm in." I said to her as she was rather surprised.

"My, you're quick. To think you'd build up trust this fast. I like you.~" True Caster said with her usual tone as I sighed while Irina put her sleeved glove back on.

"Enough with your flirting, you pervert…" I continued. "With this information you gave me regarding the appearance of both Dead Apostle and Assassin's existence in the war. I'll help you out. However, I want to approach this plan carefully. We need information on finding out who the Master of Assassin is while hunting down that Dead Apostle. Yet… This feels dangerous…"

"It's not dangerous if you have a Servant with you, is it not? After all, you're quite known for going outside every night just to pick fights." True Caster teased me as I shook my head, yet annoyed a little.

"And yet, I have not killed a single Master in my life." I added.

"So it's settled." Irina continued. "Caster will help you in finding the Dead Apostle. But do not fret, her creations such as this mechanical bird she has will search out for that Assassin. Caster, make sure he does not die."

"I will do my best, Master." True Caster reassured her Master as she expects to protect me. I mean… I have Rider with me so that makes double protection… I guess?

"Well, either way. We have a lot of time to prepare until the sun goes down. Irina, is there a guest room we can use?" I asked her as she nodded.

"Of course. How could I have forgotten about it? Well then, please follow me to your room. As for you, Caster. I suggest you take your time as much as you need." Irina said as we left True Caster's workshop in order for us to get some rest.

Third Person POV

"Fufufu… You are a curious one, Ryuga Ashikaga. After all, I do look forward to working with you." True Caster said as she continues to have interest in cooperation.

Monorail Transit, San Aldecado, Siesta City Midnight - Very Cloudy

Background Music | Persona 3 OST - The Voice Someone Calls

First Person POV

It was night once again. After some good rest. Me and True Caster were ready to venture into the night once more while I had Rider to search for the Master of Assassin and hunt down. However, Irina is not present since she is to remain at home. But since we arrived at the location by True Caster's behest… This is not what I expected.

"Caster? Why the hell are we at this place? This station is literally out of commission. You know people never go there." I said to her as she spoke.

"Of course, the people never go there. But I already suspected that this Dead Apostle is hiding within this area. Most likely that monorail that she might be in." True Caster assumes as she holds her staff on her right hand.

I began to look at this transit station. From what I can tell. This location has been left shutdown for the longest time due to San Aldecado being the most dangerous place to reside due to the high rate of crime. None ever bothered to visit here to travel from one place to another. Nowadays, you'll see some monorails passing through this low-class district ridden with crime. Now I start to begin why this True Caster or rather Leonardo Di Vinci is starting to make up plans one step ahead.

"So… does that mean we're going inside?" I asked her.

"In the monorail car, yes. From my standpoint, it doesn't seem to be operating. So why not venture inside for ourselves and see what's going on?" True Caster then went ahead as I started to notice.

"H-Hey! Wait up!" I caught up with her as we took the stairs to the transit.

As soon as we were walking on the rails to see a large monorail car that is modern enough. Caster stood there as we looked at it.

"Hmm… according to my guesses. This Dead Apostle must be inside this car. To think the world has made so many advancements such as this… I think I'd like to study it and make it myself. But too bad I'm only in a Caster class. If I were a Rider, I would have loved to show you all the contraptions I made. Would that interest you, Ryuga?" True Caster said to me as I was slightly confused by her manner of words.

"Err… I'm not sure. But is this the one we're going to find inside? I don't understand why they would just… leave it here." I asked as I started to ponder why. But after thinking… I sighed and shrugged it off. "Well, whatever. You said that a vampire is inside, right? Might as well check inside."

"Una splendida scelta. Now then, let us venture forth." True Caster said as we saw the steel ladder that will lead us inside on the side of the monorail car. Just as she climbed first, she stopped and realized… "Oh my, Ryuga… Are you peeping at me?~"

"S-Shut up…" I retorted in annoyance and had my face turned red a little when I turned away. After she climbed up. It was my turn.

As we both got inside the monorail. We looked around this area. While it is wide and spacious. The seats and the rail handles are spotless and clean. I looked outside of the window to see the view of the city. Yup… That's Pacifica Square, alright. I can even see the full moon here. True Caster here was merely observing the area as she pondered for a small moment.

"Seems the Dead is just far up ahead. So we shouldn't waste time and begin searching. Ryuga, while you're a Master, you are also completely defenseless. So I suggest you should stay by me if you want to increase your odds of survival." True Caster said as she told me while she has her confidence.

"Sure, whatever." I replied as I stood behind her in order to be safe. Though, I still have my knife in case I should fight back this Dead Apostle. But I'm completely unsure if that monster is strong enough to overpower Servants or me. "Caster… You can fight right? I mean. Is your staff just for show?"

"Just for show? Boy, you haven't seen the full capabilities of me-" Just as True Caster spoke. We noticed what's going on… The doors slid shut as we noticed. I rushed to the door as I struggled to open it.

Background Music | Persona 3 OST - Deep Breath Deep Breath

"D-Damn it! We're trapped inside! Caster!" I said to her as she pondered. "Why the hell are you still thinking!?"

Like seriously… The hell…

"The reason why I'm thinking about it is because our main enemy must be toying us. In other words… This Dead Apostle may have hijacked this monorail." True Caster then assumed as she remained her usual composure, she was ready. "Now then, let's go through this door. Onwards to another car. And remember, be on guard."

"Honestly… you're unbelievable…" I groaned as I had no choice but to follow her to another car as she slid the door open as we entered inside the another monorail car. Upon the next one we arrived. This was the most unexpected… "The hell…?"

We saw people… dead people. Corpses. There were about ten of them. Others died on the seats and the others just fell face first on the floor. There was some blood splatter everywhere but still. This was the most unexpected thing I've ever seen in my life… I think I'm about to throw up…

"Are you okay, Ryuga? You don't feel too well when you see dead bodies on the monorail." True Caster asked me as I tried to regain my composure as I no longer felt the dizziness within my head. I took a deep breath to calm myself and looked at her.

"Y-Yeah… This is nothing. But jesus… Never knew a vampire would suddenly kill people in this train. There's no turning back… right?" I said to her as she simply nodded.

"Indeed. All we need to do is to destroy this Dead Apostle and my Master will be awarded with the 4th Command Seal- Hmm?" True Caster felt something as I felt it too. The monorail begins to move on its own as it goes forward. "Oh dear, it seems our enemy is going to make this problematic for us."

I quickly looked at the window outside to figure out of what's going on… The monorail is already moving and the speed is building up slowly… Shit! That's not good at all! But, we both started to hear the voice of a young girl giggling at us all across within this car. As soon as we realized, we noticed that one of the corpses on the seat started to move on its own as it got off the seat and stood up like a zombie. With the corpse having red glowing eyes and a dry, rotten flesh of skin on his face. It started to groan and roar violently the soon it saw us. True Caster didn't seem to care as she smiled a little as she was ready to do something. She switches her staff from her left to her right hand as she uses her gauntlet on her left as it starts to do something. The gauntlet reacts the moment she aims it at the corpse as it fires out flames of pure fire as the flame engulfs the corpse as it starts to moan in pain as it proceeds to linger and fall onto the floor.

"Well now, there's more where that came from. Seems these things are proven weak after all." True Caster said in confidence and relief.

But unaware from behind, another corpse rose up as it began pouncing towards her. However, I had to act. I'm not going to stand here and do nothing. I'm the Master of Rider. And no way in hell I'll be a dead weight. I proceeded to quickly grab out my flip knife and held it in a reverse handle. With my sharp blade of a knife ready at hand. I readjust my foot posture as I launched myself in a momentum as I readied to swing my right hand with a hook-like attack.

[SLASH! SPLURT!]

My blade then proceeds to cut through the face in half as blood begins to spew out and splatter all over the moment it falls onto the floor. True Caster then turned around and noticed what I'd done.

"Interesting. So you do fight. You sure know how to use such a stubby blade." True Caster said with an observing tone as I looked at her. Yet, I was serious. My life is now at stake while the speed of the monorail builds up as it begins to travel around Siesta right after it exited the San Aldecado district.

"I can still fight, Caster. We don't have much time…" I said to her as we saw more corpses rising up to stand. They were in our way as if our enemy didn't want us to proceed. "With the monorail moving. We don't know if we'll crash into another monorail that might be active or worse… off the rails."

"I see… You're right, Ryuga. Though, to think your life's at risk inside this moving train. We might as well push through. Now then, corpses… I hope you get out of our way!" True Caster then summons her bigger gauntlet with a powered piston on her left as she dashed towards her enemies as she proceeded to slam the corpse's body as the piston begins to power up as it activates.

[PUNCH! BOOSH!]

It creates a powerful knockback that causes the corpse to explode in blood while the body is sent flying as it crashes into the door which leads to another car. There, more corpses were waiting for us. So, we began killing more corpses along the way as more blood splatter on the windows the more we pushed on through. Then right at the fifth train car of the monorail. It was sped up. I can feel that it's already going this fast. We're already approaching the main city of Pacifica Square. As we continue clearing out the corpses with me helping True Caster…

[FWOOSH!]

"Wha-!?" I noticed a lance heading straight at us as we dodged the incoming attack. My back slammed on the door right as we dodged it. My heart was beating knowing it was dangerous to charge right into the next car before thinking.

"It seems our main enemy awaits, Ryuga. Shall we confront it and slay the beast?" True Caster said to me as I calmed down to catch my breath. With enough breathing, I was ready.

"Yeah… Let's go." I nodded at her as we both readied ourselves to go inside.

Background Music | Persona 3 OST - That Which Escaped the Darkness

As soon as we headed to the last train car in the front. There was a young girl with pink hair who was seen eating the flesh off of the train conductor's neck. However, it seems she was chewing on it violently. At the moment when she furiously pulls out a chunk of flesh off of the man's neck…

[PSSSSSSSSH!]

Blood spews out violently. I saw the train controls just up ahead but it was somehow destroyed. I assume she's responsible for it.

"Well now. I never knew I had intruders interrupting my feast that night. But this blood is so delicious… but not delicious enough. But to think you managed to kill all of my meatbags just coming your way here. I guess I should commend you for that." The young girl then stood up and turned around as her eyes were crimson red. She was smiling for some reason… She's giving me the creeps…

"So, you're the Dead Apostle causing trouble in the city, is that correct?" True Caster then continued as she switched her staff to hold it on her left hand as she was prepared to get rid of her. "If yes, then I might as well get rid of you for being a typical nuisance."

"Huh…? So a Master and a Servant decided to search me out for causing trouble? You got some balls there declaring that you have the guts to kill me." The Dead Apostle then taunted as she held her lance-like weapon.

"Uhh… technically… I am the Master but she's not my Servant. I mean, I am the Master of Rider but this woman here is Caster. And yes, we're going to kill you." I said straightforwardly as I held out my knife to maintain my stance.

"As expected… You seriously want to kill me this badly? You two are indeed barbarians who kill without reason." The Dead Apostle said in an annoyed deadpan tone as I spoke.

"And better yet… You may be a Dead Apostle. We just want to know your name…" I asked her about it as she gave it some thought real quick.

"So you expect my name? Fine then, It's not like I got nothing to hide. While I am a Dead Apostle… you can call me Noel. Just a sweet innocent little girl who only wants to feed off of people's blood. Perhaps you'd be tasty as well. I wonder what Servant blood taste like?~ This anticipation is making me crazy…!~" The Dead Apostle known as Noel started to wrap her body with her arms as she started to drool from her mouth… all that for a taste?

"Ryuga. I'd say we take her down right now. While the train is moving fast. We just need to act fast." True Caster said straight to the point. Shit! I almost forgot! The monorail is going faster than I expected.

"Ahh! I almost forgot!" Noel remained in her normal usual expression. "While this monorail is gaining speed. I decided to destroy the controls so you can't stop it. As soon as this train is bound to meet its end. You two will die here!~"

"Well whatever. You'll die as well if this train hits the end of the line." I retorted at her as she laughed a little.

"Ahahaha! You think I'd die pretty easily just because I'm a Dead Apostle!? You're so fucking stupid, I'd tell you what! Now then… If you wanna kill me this badly… come and get me.~" Noel taunted us as I grew impatient…

Background Music | Persona 3 OST - Master of Shadow

I begin to move first on my attack. I readied my blade as I was trying to run towards her range. But she reacted back by summoning lances out of thin air as it was coming towards me. I used my blade and side step a little to block the attack as sparks came out of my knife right as I dodged. Just as I continued going forward within range. I prepared to swing my knife right at her until..

[CLASH!]

She blocked my attack quickly as I struggled to continue forth. That is until I heard something behind me. True Caster was using her staff as the blue spiked crystal on the top of it begins to glow as it fires out homing projectiles as I dashed back to avoid it out of the way as Noel begin to dodge them easily as she clinged on the ceiling of the train, hissing at us.

"The hell's your problem!? We're supposed to work together, right!?" I exclaimed at her in anger.

"We are working together, right? Besides, consider me assisting you in combat since you prefer to fight up close and personal." True Caster said as I was slightly annoyed over this problem. This is why I can't even team up with her at all. Our synergy isn't perfect. It's just that we don't know how we decide nor engage in fights as a team.

"Are you two going to fight and bicker around?" Noel said as she landed on the floor. "I can't believe you two are this aggressive trying to kill me…"

"Now then, Ryuga. Allow me to properly help you just once.~" True Caster then uses her gauntlet as she slams it down as it begins to react, she sends out waves of ice spikes that were racing towards her, just as it did. Noel noticed that both of her legs were covered in ice and couldn't escape. "Now then, I hope you have some sort of ace in your sleeve, no?"

"Tch… Wanting me to show off, huh? I don't blame you but… My magecraft ability may be useless but…" I know… My Hotwiring is useless.

All it can do is me using my hands to touch them and overriding anything that is powered by an engine like a car, motorcycle, or a chainsaw. Not only it can do just that… My Hotwiring has some hidden talent within. In which my mentor… the magus who taught me it. She considers it a dangerous technique and has said to me that I should never use it unless your life is threatened. I begin to concentrate as the magic circuits begin to activate within my arms, connecting each other like roots. I felt the surge as the circuits appeared on my arm as it began transferring right into my knife's blade as it began to glow. Just as that, it was ready. And so, I prepared myself to use my technique from my magic circuits.

"Orbiter!"

[SWOOSH!]

I swung my knife like a right hook as the energy on my blade then created a swirling ringed projectile of magical light as it was speeding towards Noel as she noticed. Just as the projectile was getting closer…

[SHREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!]

At the sudden moment, Noel begins to use her lance to block the projectile as it begins to grind her lance with sparks flying. She was being pressured until she tossed my projectile up with her weapon as it was sent into the sky, ripping through the ceiling of the train as the swirling ringed projectile exploded in mid-air, dispersing into motes of light as it disappeared. However, the ice shatters as she is free from it. On her face, she was gasping for air after she had to deal with it. I noticed seeing my knife's blade as the glow dies down but the blade shatters in the process. Damn it… my sister gave it to me. Yet, I know my ability is never compatible with any kinds of blades. No matter what blade I hold, like a knife or sword, it'll always break on me. Knowing that this knife isn't useful anymore. I tossed it away.

"Goddamn it… you had some fucking nerves to scare me like that, huh? Well then… I'll make it ten times worse than you just did! DIE!" Noel yelled in rage as she summoned a lance as she was ready to hurl at us.

"Seems she's going to make it harder for us. I'm impressed by what you just did. Unfortunately, your chances of survival as a Master are likely zero. And as for myself… It seems she has that type of endurance to keep going. At this point, I might have to go into Spirit Form if my magical energy is low." True Caster sweatdrops as she was fearless as she could ever be. That is until…

"What the-" Noel noticed to see what's up on the ceiling…

[SLASH! CLING!]

Out of nowhere, the ceiling of the train was cut open as she landed on the floor and swung her sword right at her. Noel was too late but blocked the attack but it was so powerful, she was knocked back and crashed into the train controls as it was damaged more. What was in front of us was that mysterious sword-wielding maiden with long blonde hair and emerald-green eyes wearing a red dress. I can't even describe what she is but she was wielding the crimson red sword with a strange design, yet she's holding it with two hands as the blade was imbued with everlasting flames. As soon she maintained her battle posture…

"Fool! Seems you haven't paid attention to your surroundings! After all, I am here!" The sword-wielding Servant said with gleeful confidence as she readied herself.

"D-Damnit… To think you'd be here… That was not what I expected…" Noel groaned as she struggled to get up.

"So you can still fight? Umu! That's the spirit! Now prepare yourself and die with honor!" The latter said as she readied herself with a burning blade.

"Buon Dio… At least try not to be fearless next time, Saber?" The voice of an Italian spoke as he jumped down from the train to enter the car that we're in. Wait a second… I know this guy. Saw him at the Church when we were gathered here for a meeting… Who was he again? Francis Lucchini? Yeah… that's the guy. He's the Master of Saber as well.

"Ahh, Praetor! I know you've arrived at the best timing possible!" Saber happily called her to her Master as he scratched the back of his head.

"Aside from the speeding train we had to catch… yes… Anyways…" Francis then looks at us. "I heard you people are taking down that vampiro as much as we are."

"Figures. I assume you're after her? Just to get the 4th Seal?" I asked Francis as he seemingly nodded but was rather little impatient.

"Certamente!" Francis continued. "I hate wasting time. So therefore, we should be the ones to finish her off!"

"Ahh, I'm sorry. But I should be the one to deal with her. After all, I was here first." True Caster said to the two as Francis turned to look at the Servant.

"As if!" Francis retorted. "I'm not going to sit around and do nothing when you're around… Saber! Porta a termine il lavoro!"

"At once!" Saber then charges forth as she swings her blazing sword downwards but Noel notices and jumps over her, dodging the attack as her sword slams on the controls again. Just as she landed… I noticed Francis' magic circuits appearing on his left arm as he placed two fingers on his forehead as he was seen casting something in his own language.

"Per decreto eterno della luce… Cancellerò tutti i peccati che sono malvagi… Epurazione!" Francis then points his fingers of his left hand directly at her where Noel was standing. The Dead Apostle noticed the bright white magic circle below her as it was filled with glyphs, latin words, and symbols. Just as the magic circle begins to glow, it creates a powerful pillar of light that intensely hurts Noel by a ton.

"GYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!" Noel screamed in pain as the magic circle disappeared as she was still standing as she was holding on to her lance to support her legs. "Shit… I-I'm going to die here… I… I must retreat…!"

Background Music End

However, Noel instantly uses her ability as rose petal swirls around her as we cover ourselves from the gust of wind. And just as that, she was gone…

"Master! She got away!" Saber informed Francis as he gritted his teeth.

"Merda! I knew this would happen. So close to killing her, too!" Francis spat in annoyance as he was not happy of securing a kill that he needed. But I needed to discuss the elephant in the room…

"Yeah… About that?" I said as I pointed at what's in front… The train was still gaining more speed to the point where we're gonna crash. We're already in Pacifica Square but it was getting close to where we might die. The controls are broken so there's no point in using it.

Background Music | Persona 3 OST - Calamity

"Caster! Can you even calculate when the train will crash into another train!?" I asked her as she began to think about it.

"If I were to guess… With this speeding train going over 75 miles per hour and in front of us is another train that may have stopped within the transit station… The collision course will occur within two minutes." True Caster said upon her calculations…

"TWO MINUTES!?" Francis shouted. "At this point, we're all going to die if we do nothing! Dio ci salvi tutti!"

"Then I better make this quick. My Servant is a bit far away while trying to hunt down that Master of Assassin. It seems I have no choice…!" I know what I have to do… I used my right hand as it began to glow red while I started to concentrate… Yes… I'm going to use my first command seal… "By my first order of the Command Seal… I summon you! RIDER!"

My first seal was used as it glows brightly, causing the blue sphere to turn into golden light as it expands itself, successfully summoning my Servant to me where she was kneeling on the floor as the burst of wind died down. Then, she got up and looked at me with the most unsurprised look on her face while smiling.

"Eh? Just as I was fighting the group of Assassins, you just had to summon me here, did you? I was so close to killing that Master. I want to have a talk about this." Rider complained as I tried to explain to her the situation.

"We'll have a talk later! But first, we need to get out of this train! It's going to crash soon!" I talked to her in order to figure out a solution to avoid our deaths as much as possible.

"Se posso parlare, everyone." True Caster spoke as she raised her staff up high as the crystal began to glow. "I suggest you cover your heads."

[BOOM!]

The burst from her staff blew the ceiling wide open, allowing us a chance to escape.

"So much as summoning your Servant, Master of Rider! With Caster's help, we can get out of here! Saber!" Francis called her Servant as she nodded.

"Umu! We shall!" Saber agreed as she took his hand as she jumped high to escape.

"Rider!" I said to her without question as I grabbed her hand. But I lended out my hand to Caster. "Caster! Grab my hand! Hurry!"

True Caster nodded as she took it. Rider leaped up high in order to get out of the train as we saw it speeding so fast… it had already made it towards the transit in the main city of Siesta's Pacifica Square.

Background Music End

Third Person POV

Inside the Transit Station in Pacifica Square where it was crowded with people as the monorail train had stopped and the doors slid open, allowing people to leave and others to enter inside the train to get from one place to another. Unaware within the public's notice. The damaged speeding train had already reached its destination as the group heard the sound of screeching. It was getting close. It was an unexpected moment where the masses began to scream and panic as they tried to escape. Even the people inside the monorail struggle to escape. But it was too late. Just as the speeding train had collided with the other train… The moment of explosion had occurred. The explosion was so big, from inside the building of the transit station, the glass on buildings shattered from the shockwave of the explosion as the blast bursted out from the outside. But that also caused a sudden power outage within the main city as it was completely dark but the moonlight of the full moon was still there. There was fire inside the transit station as the people from the city streets watched the incident happen… tons of people were killed inside caused by the train collision. This was an unexpected accident that has happened here and no one knows why. Perhaps it was 88th Street who started it again. But no one knows.

Background Music | Persona 3 OST - Fearful Experience

Somewhere within the alleyway far from Pacifica Square where me and Francis had begun catching our breaths after what happened on the train. We saw the explosion where the train had collided. I never knew so many people died from it. Yes, they were killed. There was nothing we could do to stop the train. Noel had already damaged it and it can't be undone or reverted. But this event caused a catastrophe that we never imagined. Yet, the Servants didn't care nor are we responsible for anything of this.

"I can't believe it… Many people have died… Just as we saw right before our eyes… Possano le loro anime riposare in pace…" Francis said in horror as I began to calm down and regained my breathing.

"We know… This was unexpected and we can't change that. Blame that Dead Apostle for setting it up but we have no choice. We gotta move forward… and be better than this. Now that it has happened. We should lay low." I said to Francis and the Servants regarding what happened.

"Y-Yes… I agree. However… You know my name… What was your again? Scuse. I forgot." Francis asked for my name. Still, I don't understand what word he says in Italian.

"Ryuga Ashikaga." I said my name.

Background Music | Persona 3 OST - This Mysterious Feeling

"Ryuga… Ryuga… I see. I can never thank you enough. To think you can hold out on your own against that vampiro. Heh… Sicuramente ti rispetto. I really do…" Francis chuckled with a slight smile on his face.

"What?" I was confused about what word he says?

"What I mean to say in English… I respect you. Truly." Francis continued as he calmed down and looked at me with confidence. "Ryuga Ashikaga! Even though we were supposed to be enemies in this war. But not anymore! From this day and night forward… I, Francesco Lucchini, will consider you an amico! A friend! But do please call me Francis if you so prefer."

A friend… I never thought about it for a second. To think a stranger, an enemy Master, would consider me his friend… I… I just never thought about it. He seemed so eager to be brave just to talk to me. This was something that I've never considered. In my life… I never had friends when I was a kid. Bullied at school for being an outsider that I am. There was another friend in my country who was willing to be nice to me. His name was Kanata Akagi. At times, we would talk to each other, play video games at my house, and sometimes help each other out. Kanata was my only friend. But when I became a Master. I almost and nearly cast aside everything. To the point where I would forget as if I became a completely different person. But… I never told Katana that I'm a magus. I just avoided that. And now, focusing on the present… Francis almost reminded me of him but in a different way. He proceeded to lend his hand out as a sign of friendship. As soon as I saw… I straight away accepted it as we shook our hands as we finished it. So, I spoke.

"Very well. Just call me Ryuga and we're cool." I replied to him with a smile on my face. "You got a phone right? Perhaps we can message or call each other?"

"Certamente! I'd be happy to accept that!" Francis then grabs out his phone as we exchanged numbers as we did so. "Even today's night was indeed horrific with this incident. How about we just call it a day and rest. After all… My mind is tired."

"Same. We just need to avoid some trouble. What about you, Caster?" I asked her.

"As per usual. I should report back to my Master about this event. However… Thank you for assisting me in the attempts to hunt down the Dead Apostle. We'll definitely get her next time. Arrivederci!" True Caster then winked at us as she went into Spirit Form, disappearing in thin air.

"There she goes… Well then! While this Caster is familiar… Ahem! I must go. Saber, please carry me." Francis said to his Servant as she agreed.

"Umu! Very well, my Praetor!" Saber then carried her Master in a bridal style for some reason as she looked back on us. "Ryuga Ashikaga! Rider! We will meet again!"

[FWOOSH!]

And just as that, Saber dashed off into the air. And that just leaves us.

"Master. While I am tired. I must rest. But promise me that we'll talk after what happened." Rider said as she reminded me about it as I sighed.

"Honestly… Fine. I'll talk to you about what happened. In exchange, you tell me what the Master of Assassin's true identity is, okay?"

"Very well. Until then. I must rest." Rider said as she goes into Spirit Form and disappears in thin air.

I checked my phone again as it was 4AM.. Shit, I don't think I'll have enough proper sleep for this. But oh well, I made a promise to Fiore that I would come back to Willowton. So I left the alleyway and walked on the empty sidewalks in order to lay low. I begin to ponder in my mind over the incident and that Dead Apostle Noel… As I began to walk down from the sidewalk while it was dark. I seemingly walked past the young woman with brown long braided hair who wore glasses. While I didn't care. I started to hear her speak.

"Survive. Until that time comes. I will see you again…" The voice of a woman spoke as I quickly turned around behind me. She was gone… Who the hell was she… I shrugged it off and proceeded to leave. Just what the hell is going on…?

Third Person POV

Background Music | Persona 3 OST - An Unpleasant Premonition

Meanwhile within the main area of Pacifica Square where there was still no power as the people were in panic, running around as the police were there to contain the situation of what happened. Bryce and Ophelia stepped outside of the armored SUV as they all saw the scene of the incident where the firefighters were putting out the flames inside the transit station. Bryce whistled.

"Ho-ly fuck. To think an explosion would occur this soon here in Pacifica Square… Huh… I wonder why tons of people died inside. Well, not our problem. So, Ophelia… how was your hunt for that… vampire?" Bryce asked her about it as she shook her head.

"Unfortunately. I wasn't able to find the Dead Apostle, sir." Ophelia continued. "However, my Servant has informed me that a Dead Apostle was found inside the train before it crashed."

"Let me guess… they killed her already?" Bryce assumed.

"No. She fled. But Archer saw Masters and Servants that escaped from the speeding train right after the Dead Apostle escaped. Master of Rider and Master of Saber." Ophelia said to him as it peaked his interest.

"You don't say? Their names in respective order?" Bryce asked.

"Ryuga Ashikaga, Master of Rider. Francis Lucchini, Master of Saber. However, there was a Servant Caster as well…" Ophelia said their names as he thinked.

"I see. You said you made contact with this… Ryuga guy at the Church, yes?" Bryce continued. "Try to be on his good side. If you make one mistake by blowing your cover, you work for BlackSteel. I swear to god-"

"Rest assured, sir. I… I'll get along with him. Please trust me." Ophelia reassures him as he calms down and ignores looking at her.

"Good girl. Now then, inform my men to secure the perimeter ASAP." Bryce said to her as she nodded.

"Yes, sir." Ophelia answered to his command as she headed off to gather soldiers immediately. Bryce decided to take a smoke as he looked at the night sky.

"Today's a shitty day, huh…?" He said to himself, pondering what the night had already become.

Background Music | Persona 3 OST - The Voice Someone Calls

Meanwhile, above one of the skyscrapers. On the rooftop where Mario had set up a tent while looking at the view of the city of Pacifica Square while the powers were out. Though it is unknown of why he would set up camp here but he saw what happened with the transit station involving an explosion. Though, he already assumed that the Dead Apostle was behind it despite the Masters and Servants trying to take her out, all for that 4th command seal. He sighed and looked at the full moon in the night sky. While it was beautiful, something just feels missing. And he doesn't seem to get the full picture. But, he didn't care even though people had died at the station. It was never his problem or the Church. Let alone the authorities to handle the situation. But he maintained a serious face as he watched over the city.

And meanwhile in some other parts of the city… Bazett was seen walking to leave the area of Pacifica Square after what happened. Not only was she roaming alone. She was accompanied by a Servant this time. The Servant known as Another Caster. He had blue hair covered by the sky blue hooded robe as he held a wooden staff as he was simply following her.

"Yo, Master. I heard about what happened regarding this accident. To think a Dead Apostle is somehow causing a lot of trouble for us in this war, huh?" Another Caster said to his Master as she was rather unfazed.

"Yes, I'm well aware of that." Bazett continues. "Now then, do you have anything to say?"

"Actually, I do." Another Caster continued. "It appears that there are other additional Servants that are still active in this war. Hell, I saw Servant Rider fighting against that Assassin."

"And?" Bazett demanded as she raised her brows in question.

"And… There was this another Saber I saw who was helping Rider." Another Caster said more as he provided some small information which slightly caught her interest.

"Another Saber…? Describe." Bazett asked.

"Hmm… the lass has long blonde hair, a fancy hat, and wields a rapier. From what I saw, she's a deadly fighter." Another Caster explained as she pondered for the moment.

"…I see. Not that it matters. What matters is our hunt for the Dead Apostle. It somehow escaped the train while the Master of Rider and Saber were trying to take her down. Plus… there was another Caster upon my observation." Bazett explained as Another Caster noticed.

"Hey now, another Caster-class Servant? You gotta be kidding me. Just how many Servants did the Holy Grail do this time?" Another Caster was rather confused upon this moment.

"Again, it does not matter. Let us return to our base of operation and start planning ahead. If they somehow kill the Dead Apostle… Then I would like to prioritize our main target first." Bazett said as her Servant sighed.

"Yeah, yeah. I hear you…" Another Caster replied as the two continued walking down the empty road within the full moon.

Background Music | Persona 3 OST - Just Like This…

But meanwhile somewhere within the empty subway tunnels, Noel was seen feeding off more of the people's corpses that she had lured and kidnapped in order to maintain her body and beauty. She was damaged heavily but filled with anger and hatred. She proceeds to furiously suck more blood until she pulls out the man's flesh on his deck and proceeds to chow down furiously like a rabid beast.

"I'll kill you… I'll kill you… I'LL FUCKING KILL YOU ALL! THE NEXT TIME WE MEET, I'LL FUCKING EAT YOU ALIVE!" Noel raged in anger as her face was covered in blood as she was building up hatred. She wanted revenge on one particular Master who damaged her the most… Francis Lucchini. And thus, her plans of revenge have crossed her mind and want one thing and one thing only… to kill Francis and feed off of his blood and flesh. Thus, she hid in the darkness and away for the next night.

Background Music End

[TO BE CONTINUED…]

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ENDING - Life by Rude Alpha TV Size Ver. (Dr. Stone)

*Theme plays*

The theme starts with Ryuga resting on the grass fields on the mountain plains during the starry night where he was staring at the falling star streaking through the sky as he proceeds to lend his right hand out that shows his Command Seal. As the scene transitions.

Maybe I don't know what to do

Hurry up, my mind is on the moon

Flying up to where the wind blew

The sparrow bird was seen flying through the night where it flies into the forest, flying past through the trees until it flies towards a small mote of light as it gets bigger, engulfing the bird with that light as the scene transitions.

Tenohira ni afurete kuru jounetsu ga me o samasu

Samayotteru dake no this WORLD

Hitotsu dake hikaru kimi no PURE

Sabita KNIFE nanka ja sasenai

I am burning like a fire gone wild

Kokoro ni ya yo hanatareta shunkan

Matowaritsuku zatsuon ga hajiketa

Everything was different from that moment on

If I don't try, I'll never know

Then the next scene shows Ryuga walking down the sidewalk at Pacifica Square in the daytime filled with pedestrians and vehicles as he had both hands in his pockets as he continued walking down the street then to the crossing where a lot of people were walking through. Then the next scene where he was seen sitting on the beaches of San Aldecado where he watches the ocean waves reach but sinks back. Then to the next scene where he was at New Hiroshima where he was seen praying at the shrine filled with people. Then to the next scene in Fairdale Hills where he was seen sitting at the bench at the nearby park as he drank his cola as he proceeded to sigh and close his eyes.

Naze hana wa saku no darou

Kimi no koe ga hibiku yo

The next scene shows Fiore tending the flowers on the rooftops as she flowers them. Then the next scene shows Svin in his own apartment room where he was laying on the bed to stare at the ceiling as the scene transitions to show the flower petals being blown by the wind into the blue sky.

Tell me why?

I just shouted to the sky

But you are no no longer here, that's right?

Ano hi bokura tashikameteta LIFE

The next scene shows the flock of crows flying through the sky above the small town as the next scene shows Meifang walking with three girls as she smokes a cig down the sidewalk. Then the next scene shows Yu Meiren who was seen in her casual clothing as she drank coffee at a coffee shop.

Hakanai yume to iware tatte ii kara

Kizudarake no kyou kara sukuidasu yo

Then the last scene shows Ryuga waking up on the same mountain but it was daytime. Nagao lends her hand to him as he takes up. He got up as the two headed to the city together as the sparrow flew toward the blue sky.

---

Author's Notes: Well now, that took longer than I expected, huh? I mean, I made this as long as I can to make it the most serious chapter to date. What you saw was the consequence that the Masters and Servants had made. Yes, this particular monorail scene is a direct reference to Persona 3. Actually, I finally used the Persona 3 background music this time around to liven up the feel. While it is dark and gritty, yes. But there are indeed consequences if you couldn't stop the train if Noel has broken the controls in order to kill her pursuers. And yes… True Caster's true identity is indeed Leonardo Di Vinci. The reason why I want to include her is to show how capable she is rather than sitting back and watching the sidelines compared to her F/GO counterpart. Somehow, I found her beauty to be… interesting. As for Ryuga's 'Hotwiring' ability. I decided to give it a small upgrade. While he can hurl out magical projectiles towards his enemies. It'll cost a blade to be extremely incompatible and shatter no matter what bladed weapon he uses. But if he gets his hands on a bladed weapon used by a Servant… Well, that's up for guesses. And lastly, Dead Apostle Noel finally makes her appearance despite both her and Mario being from the remake of Tsukihime. Again, they fit. Don't ask why. While this Chapter was the longest to make in my perspective. It's gonna be a bit harder to continue making more serious chapters. So, I think the characters deserve a small break from fighting instead duke it out in a game of volleyball as a typical filler chapter. Yes, I'm not kidding. The next chapter will be somewhat light-hearted and comedic but will carry that "seriousness" momentum after what has happened at Pacifica Square where many people had died due to an "incident". With that said, I will present a compendium for True Caster. Until then, peace out.

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-[Servant Compendium No. 5]-

Servant: True Caster

True Name: Leonardo Di Vinci

Master: Irina Ornstein

Alignment: Chaotic Good

Strength: E

Endurance: E

Agility: C

Mana: A+

Luck: B

Noble Phantasm: EX

Class Skills

Item Construction - A

Produces devices that carry magical energy. Because she possesses Rank A in this, it is possible to create even a potion of limited immortality. Da Vinci is also capable of creating a spare body to use it in case of emergency if her actual body is destroyed. Due to being a relatively low-cost solution, it has a commensurately low output.

Territory Creation - A

Creates a "Workshop" that is an advantageous position to oneself as a magus. Because he/she possesses Rank A in this, it is possible to create a "Temple", which is superior to a "Workshop".

Personal Skills

Inherent Wisdom - EX

Skill that shows one who has an unparalleled natural knowledge. Except for those that are a burden to the body (such as Divinity) and those that are characteristic of certain heroes, many Skills can be practically demonstrated at a proficiency of A Rank. Although he/she does not use this Skill very often as a Servant, regarding his/her Item Creation and Territory Creation Skills, their ranks are increased to Rank A because of this Skill.

Pioneer of the Stars - EX

A unique Skill given to heroes that became turning points in human history. All difficult voyages and challenges which are considered impossible turn into events that can be realized. Leonardo da Vinci, who gave many stimuli in many fields to human civilization, possesses this Skill at a high rank.

Golden Rule (Body) - B

The possession of a perfect goddess-like body, preserving beauty. Leonardo intentionally acquired this Skill for her benefit when she "redesigned" her body as a female (Mona Lisa).

Noble Phantasm

Uomo Universale: The Universal Man - EX

Type: Anti-Unit/Anti-Army

Range: -/70

Max Number of Targets: 1 person/200 people

The legendary omnipotence associated with Leonardo da Vinci given shape. It instantly analyzes the target(s) and adjusts his/her greatest attack in accordance with that target(s) before firing, commonly called an all-purpose, specially-made Noble Phantasm. Apparently, it is originally a reflection-type Noble Phantasm that repels attacks by provisionally composing the enemy's Noble Phantasm on the spot, but those resources are being utilized for the sake of administering a certain [REDACTED]. A different shape of his/her omnipotence is demonstrated. In other words, it is a magical attack done by deforming in a flash his/her right gauntlet (a support-type, all-purpose gauntlet used for all states of warfare) and giving to the enemy camp a "compulsory" fixed damage by projecting pure magical energy. This damage is one that is not able to be reduced by any defensive-type Noble Phantasm and Skill, not to mention anti-magical energy abilities; that is to say, by putting together a super advanced formula technique that analyzes in real-time, every opponent becomes a susceptible target for his/her magical attack.