"Talking"
'Thinking'
"Mental link"
"Noble Phantasms"
POV
Chapter 29: Meet and greet
Olga POV
Olga stared up at the being in front of the gate, Fou perched on her shoulder did much the same. She suspected that if Berserker had a proper face its eyes would be glaring at them in suspicion as well.
What was in front of her was definitely a servant. She could not doubt that, and if she were to hazard a guess, it was similar to her own Berserker considering its size and design,
The fact that the chest was an exposed furnace was a rather obvious clue in hindsight. It would also explain the fact that the Romans had acted more weary of Berserker than outright afraid of it if this thing had been guarding their gates.
The giant, the same height at the Dragon Slayer Armour, stood at the entrance to the city gates. Black moulded armour, its right shoulder pat sculpted in the form of a tusk or horn curling downwards while its left shoulder pad was more oval in design. With thick, stocky limbs and a bulky torso it would have appeared somewhat comical.
Were it not for the fact that an inferno was bellowing from its chest and the oversized helmet with large protruding horns jutting from either side, although the right horn was snapped in half. The guard servant lacked a face, instead the helm had a single port where the face would have been, where an ominous red glow emerged.
Stabbed into the ground with a gauntlet resting atop the pommel, was a blackened greatsword, with an ornamental shaped crossguard, which would have seemed quite amazing to look at, were it not for the fact that the sword was larger than she was.
"S-so…" Olga coughed into her hand "W-what is it?" the servants head snapped to her, releasing a low growl.
Her own Berserker responded in kind.
"He." The centurion corrected, causing Olga to turn to him "Although I don't blame you." he shrugged "Don't know. Turned up a week ago. Killed a raiding party of spiders and just kept guard."
"W-why a he though?" She asked "Isn't i-he a construct?"
"No." The man shook his head "According to the Emperors consort, it's apparently got the mind of a man in there." he frowned "Although she wouldn't comment on it further." shrugging his shoulders "Anyway, we'd best be off. He only attacks threats to the gate."
"R-right." Olga muttered, keeping her eye on the servant, still having a staring contest with her own. "Berserker." her servant turned to her and followed after, sending one last look at the blackened armour before facing forwards again.
Olga was led through the streets, the occasional glance was sent in her direction, or more specifically in Berserkers direction, before they were ignored. Not that she could blame them, her own servant wasn't too dissimilar from the being standing at the gates and, if she was perfectly honest, appeared to be far less menacing.
Although the strategic side of her mind was already calculating the use of the Servant, it was strong, much like her own servant their stats were similar. If just a little bit slower. If she could convince the Roman emperor, provided it was still Nero, to aid Chaldea then perhaps this singularity would be solved far quicker.
They were eventually led to a large palace like structure, Olga would admit to being impressed by the design. It hadn't actually occurred to her until this moment that she was in Rome itself during the Empire's peak.
"Through there." The Centurion interrupted her thoughts, gesturing to the large wooden doors, Olga noted the two presumed Praetorian guards stood outside, still stone faced in while standing in the shadow of the large metal behemoth behind her. "The Emperor is expecting you." he nodded to her one last time before he turned away and walked back the way they came.
"O-of course." Olga noted, cringing at how her voice cracked slightly. She internally cursed, this was no time to be nervous. She needed to appear confident, especially when dealing with Nero. The man was a well known tyrant and she wasn't going to appear as some frail little girl in front of him.
The Praetorian's nodded to eachother, then moved to push the doors open, revealing the interior of the palace, showcasing the marble floor and large ornamental pillars. It was quite something special.
Olga did her best to control her heart rate, carrying herself in with an air of confidence around her.
"Welcome, welcome!" And was immediately caught flat-footed by the presence of a short blond girl in a red dress which revealed her underwear to the world. Olga dumbly noted that it was white. "You must be the visitors that dear Cecilia told me of!"
"H-huh?" Olga blinked, then nodded "Y-yes." she steeled her expression "I am Director Olga Marie Animusphere of Chaldea."
"Ah!" The woman beamed closing the distance between the two of them in a heartbeat, looking Olga over with a raised eyebrow and an inquisitive glint. "Hmmm…" she hummed to herself, then began pacing around Olga, resting a hand on her chin and nodding "Yes, yes. Most splendid! Like a pale rose!"
"E-excuse me!?"
"Ah, yes!" The girl stopped in front of Olga and then sported a wide gin, placing her hands on her hips "I am Emperor Nero Claudius of Rome!"
"...I…" Olga felt time stop for her as the words registered in her head "Nero Claudius…?"
"Yes, that is what I said!" Nero nodded, frowning, then she suddenly grinned again "Ah, I see! You are so enraptured by my beauty that you cannot form words! There is no need to be shy!" she threw her arms wide "Gaze upon the flower of Rome, lavish me with your compliments!"
Olga stood there for several seconds, still staring at the now identified Nero before she eventually spoke again "I can see your underwear."
And immediately shoved her whole foot in her mouth.
"Indeed!" Nero took the comment in stride, pulling at the side of her dress and somehow giving Olga a better view, much to the woman's conniptions. "A most spectacular view, is it not!"
"I-"
"But you may gaze upon me freely another time!" Nero spoke up again, cutting Olga off from whatever comment she was about to make "You are here to aid Rome, therefore I will take you to Cecilia! She will explain all!"
"R-right." Olga nodded, figuring her situation couldn't get much…
Wait…
Didn't the Romans say that the woman was also Nero's consort?
She suddenly found herself blushing at the implication, dammit! Position of strength! Position of Strength! Position of Stre-
"My word! Your beauty is most extravagant when you blush! A pale rose such as yourself is a rare find!" Nero complimented her with a wide grin.
Olga let out a pitiful whimper.
Berserker pat her on the back, this time she had no complaints about it.
"And here we are!" Nero announced, throwing open the doors to what appeared to be a private room. In the corner, sat on a chair, was a young woman in a black dress. Long platinum blonde hair which went past her shoulders and wearing a steel mask which covered the stop half of her head "Dear Cecilia! I have brought the visitors you spoke of!"
"My thanks, Emperor." The woman bowed her head, a gentle voice which was a stark contrast to Nero. The woman turned to her, causing Olga to raise an eyebrow in surprise as to how the woman could see past the mask. "Welcome, Visitors from beyond time. I am the Firekeeper of the Ashen One, current mage to Emperor Nero."
"Ashen…" Olga mumbled the name in recognition, then titled her head "Do you mean Ash? Blue armour, wields fire?"
The Firekeeper gave a gentle smile, nodding her head once "You are acquainted with Milord. I ask forgiveness for this selfish request, but may I inquire as to his condition?"
"He's...somewhere in Rome right now." Olga admitted, the sound of metal thumps behind her indicated that Berserker had entered the room. The Firekeepers head went from her to the servant behind her.
"The Dragon Slayer Armour." She spoke "Milord spoke of it." she gave a soft laugh, full of mirth "He was fearful of Lothric for some time because of his battle with the foe." she turned back to Olga "I apologise for my indulgence."
"Its fine." Olga replied, tilting her head and walking forwards "Consort?"
"A rumour." Nero replied offhandedly "In truth she has refused my hand, claiming that she would need permission from her lord." her eyes widened, then turned to Olga with a predatory gleam "You said her Lord was here?"
"Y-yes." Olga replied, then Nero beamed.
"Wonderful! We must return him to Rome at once so he may relinquish his servant to me!"
Chaldea POV
Romani took a very long sip of his coffee, eyebrows halfway up his forehead. He didn't know if he should speak up or not, Olga had only shut off the visual link, the microphone was still on.
He hadn't realised this until Nero had started speaking.
He, and everyone else in the command room, were definitely surprised to learn that the famous Roman Tyrant was actually a woman.
And then she stared speaking about marrying one of Ash's...friends? Lover? Child? Servant?
Then it got awkward.
"Should we...ahem." Maxwell coughed loudly, earning him the attention of everyone in the room "Should we let her know we can hear them?"
Da Vinci was in the corner of the room, hand on her mouth trying to stop her laugh from escaping her throat. Failing miserably if her giggles were any indication. Something that was common place with several other staff members.
"Oh, I'm good." Kerry grinned, the brunette woman leaned back in her chair, resting her arms on the back of her head "I want to know how long this can go on for." she then thought of something "How the heck is Ash gonna react when he learns about this?"
"Well, we don't know what their relationship is." Maxwell countered, shrugging his shoulders "Maybe they are friends. She calls him her Lord though...so she might be a servant."
"Yeah, but she sounded pretty happy to hear he was in the singularity." Kerry replied, a cat like smirk on her face "Maybe there was a little more to their friendship."
"Can we please focus." Romani interrupted them, although he looked the most awkward out of everyone in the room, turning away and looking at something "I'll ask Magi*Mari!"
"Seriously?" Kerry deadpanned "You still have that thing? And what the heck kind of advice is it gonna give us?"
"Don't discount Mari's advice!" Romani waved her off "She has gotten me out of some serious scrapes before! So I trust her judgement whole heartedly!"
"Magi*Mari says Ash is getting Netorared!" The monitor replied in a chirpy voice.
There was a deathly silence in the command room.
Broken when Da Vinci could no longer contain her laughter and burst out in a fit, clutching her stomach and leaning over. She was soon followed by nearly everyone else in the room.
Romani could only hold his head in his hands "Why…" he muttered to himself.
Olga POV
Olga took in a deep breath, palming her face while she did. She couldn't see the Cecilia's expression fully, although she had the distinct impression that the girl was sending her a look of sympathy.
"Moving on…" Olga changed the subject, focusing on the woman "I assume you are a Caster class?"
"Thou art correct, unfortunately I am a poor Sorcerer." Cecilia explained "Mine role as Court Magician was one assumed from the request of the other Caster."
"Because you are far prettier to gaze upon!" Nero proclaimed "He is also quite rude!"
Olga felt a headache coming on "So...you aren't clairvoyant?"
"Thou speak of the gift of Foresight?" Cecilia inquired, at Olga's nod she gave a reply "Mine eyes see much...however use of them is...limited to me." she confessed "Mine own tolerance for their gift is small."
Olga furrowed her brows "You can't use your eyes for very long then?"
"Long enough to foresee thine arrival." Cecilia replied, then gave a softer expression "Unfortunately, to use mine eyes is to inflict great pain upon me."
"Damn." Olga grit her teeth, biting her thumb before she noticed something else "You said the other Caster? You have two?"
Nero cringed "Yes...However as I have stated, he is far less appealing to gaze upon." she sighed "However, he is also request to be informed about your arrival." her eyes brightened "And it is almost time for Prefect Solaire to report to me!" she span on her heel "Come, pale rose Animusphere! Perhaps Rome's Sun Knight has found your friends!"
"Wonderful…" Olga sighed under her breath, feeling the headache come back in full force "Perhaps this Caster will have a little more information."
Ritsuka Group POV
"Is something the matter, Ash-san?" Mash asked the undead servant, he had stopped and suddenly looked around, he turned his attention back to her, helmet dissipating and revealing his visage again. A troubled look on his face.
"I...I confess I do not know." He replied, crossing his arms and clenching his jaw "I feel as though...something terrible is happening right now."
"Really?" Mash asked, looking worried "Do you think we are in danger?"
"Hm?" Ash blinked, then shook his head "Not that form of trouble, more...uncomfortable towards me." he shrugged "It is likely nothing important."
"I see." Mash nodded, then looked back at him "Ash-san...why are you hiding behind my shield?"
"Because Sorceress Beatrice has been rather intense in her questioning." He replied, crouched behind her shield, obscuring himself from view "Ever since she learned I could wield abyssal powered Pyromancy, she has been interrogating me with a particular fervour. It is a far cry from her usual personality, and I confess, somewhat disconcerting to me."
"...Is this bullying?" Mash mumbled to herself, then shook her head, giving the Saber servant a reassuring smile "I'm sure its not that bad, Ash-san."
"Forgive my bluntness, but it is not you she seeks." Ash replied, then sighed and returned to his full height "Still...I cannot hide from her forever."
"Are you going to go back to her?"
"No." He replied, shaking his head and walking around Mash's shield "I'm going to speak with Sir Gareth."
"Why?"
"I apparently look like a man called Gawain." Ash replied with a shrug "Or close enough to him, I'm curious as to the man who shares me face."
Mash felt something in her chest at the mention of the name, as if it was familiar to her beyond the history she had learned about. Perhaps something more personal to her.
"If you will excuse me." Ash bid himself farewell to Mash, moving to the front of the column.
Solaire came to a halt, holding up his hand to signal the ones behind him to stop, he looked around before nodding and turning back "This shall serve as our camp for tonight." he turned to the Roman centurions next to him "Magnus, set up the tents, Aulus establish a perimeter for us, I would hate for our rest to be disturbed."
"Yes, Prefect." The men replied at the same time, then began to echo the orders to the other Roman soldiers, Solaire watched them with a small frown.
"Something troubles you?" Verndari asked, walking up next to him, Solaire sent him a sideways glance before he released a tired sigh.
"Quite so." He nodded "I began this expedition with nearly fifty men, we return with thirty." he shook his head "The loss of life saddens me."
"It is the way of soldiering." Verndari waved him off "Only a fool goes into a battle expecting to come out unscathed...a fool or one of superb skill." he chuckled "And I suspect even you or myself are lacking in that department."
Solaire gave a more genuine laugh "I suppose so! I'm no Artorias, that much is certain….but it is saddening all the same."
"Have you been a knight captain before?"
"I was recommended for the post in Astora." Solaire replied, holding a hand in front of his face and then clenched his fist "But then I developed the brand and Journeyed to Lordran to find something...important to me."
"Did you ever find it?"
"...No." Solaire replied in a tired voice "No I did not…" then his tone took on a softer tone "But I shall keep searching for it, however long it takes." he coughed and turned back to Verndari "Apologies, I babbled, you were saying?"
"Hm? Ah, yes." The Shielder nodded "Being a Knight Captain is not about ensuring your men live. It is about ensuring that your objective is fulfilled." he crossed his arms "The men under your command are not your priority." he looked behind him, Solaire followed his vision as it landed on Quelaag, the rider at the far end of the makeshift camp "She is your priority, loathe as I am to admit it, as long as she is escorted back to your superiors, then you have fulfilled your role."
"Even if all the men were to die?" Solaire asked, a hint of disapproval in his voice.
"Even if they were to die." Verndari replied "That is how it was in Drangleic. All were expected to fulfil their orders. Regardless of cost."
"...I see." Solaire nodded his head "I confess, I cannot adhere to that doctrine."
"You are a warrior of sunlight." Verndari waved his hand "In truth, I did not expect you too, but I offer my advice. You are their commander, you must learn to prioritise. Soldiers are replaceable, the consequences of a failed objective can have a greater impact than the loss of an infantryman."
"Hmmm…" Solaire shook his head "I cannot think that way. Sunlight warriors are to stand with their comrades in all things. To abandon one in a time of crisis would sully our name."
Verndari stared at him for a few moments before he sighed "Then you are a perfect warrior of sunlight." he marched away "But a poor commander of troops." were his parting words, Solaire stared at his retreating figure before another voice called out to him.
"I...I don't think that's a bad thing." Solaire blinked, turning around to see Ritsuka approach him with a somewhat nervous expression "Sorry for eavesdropping-"
Solaire held up a hand to stop him "It is no concern, our conversation was nothing secretive or to be ashamed of." he chuckled "However, I would ask you indulge a selfish request of mine."
"Oh?" Ritsuka blinked, coming to a stop a few feet from the servant "What?"
"I was hoping you would offer the rest of your opinion." Solaire asked, then went on "You have already begun and it is you that Sir Verndari serves. Would you abandon your comrades for a mission?"
Ritsuka stared at him for a few moments, his expression cycling through a litany of emotions before his bit his lip, rubbing his hands "I...I don't know." he replied "I hope not." he added on, looking back at Solaire "But…" he closed his eyes and took in a deep breath "No. I would never abandon them. I would always try to save them first or make sure everyone got out alive."
Solaire stared at him for a few moments before he nodded his head "A fine answer." he admitted, then sighed "However, Sir Verndari does speak truth. While I cannot agree with him because of my principles, I can see the logic behind his statement. You are, whether you wish it or not, a commander of soldiers now…"
"I know…" Ritsuka replied, a hesitant tone "But even still, to leave someone behind to die or to sacrifice them...I don't know if I could do it…"
Solaire approached Ritsuka, then placed a hand on his shoulder in a comforting manner "I cannot speak for others, however as Heroic Spirits, our time has passed. We are only brought back for such a limited time." his helmet dissipated, revealing a short mop of blonde hair, sharp facial features and bright blue eyes, a reassuring smile on his face "I know in my soul, that if my death were in some way beneficial to a noble cause...I would not be remiss to sacrificing myself."
"But-"
"A sacrifice troubles you, the idea of someone giving up their life for others." Solaire nodded his head "You do not like the idea of having to decide the fates of men." he chuckled "In truth, neither do I. Warriors of Sunlight are just that, Warriors. We are not expected to lead, but to aid our summoner. However, you must lead. And leading requires choices and many will weigh heavily upon your soul."
Ritsuka stared at Solaire for a few moments before he looked away "I...I know...well actually I don't know. I've never had to do that before." he admitted, rubbing his arm "But...I'm scared to think that I could do it." he shrugged "That I could sacrifice a person for a mission."
"Only a monster would sacrifice lives and feel nothing." Solaire chided him, a warm smile on his face "And you are far from being a monster if the loss of life troubles you."
"Still…" Ritsuka sighed "I don't want to be in a position where I have to sacrifice someone."
"Then you must do your best to ensure that does not happen." The knight removed his hand from Ritsuka's shoulder "You must be wise, decisive and strong willed. However, should such a time emerge when you are forced to choose between completing your mission and saving your comrades. You must ask yourself, which outcome would be best."
"…Which would you pick?"
"My comrades. Every time." Solaire replied instantly. Then gave a self-depreciating chuckle "But then again, I am no leader. So perhaps that would be the wrong choice."
Ritsuka stared at him for a few moments before he let out a quiet laugh "Sorry, sorry." he waved his hand at Solaire's puzzled look "I'm not laughing at you, its just everyone from Ash's world seems to be really jovial despite coming from somewhere which sounds like it is always out to kill you."
Solaire snorted, giving a wide smile of his own "That is because in Lordran, the best commodity available is good humour and friendship." he gave Ritsuka a light slap on the shoulder "I look forward to journeying with you, young…"
"Fujimaru Ritsuka." He nodded his head "Or you can call me Ritsuka."
"Young Ritsuka then." Solaire smiled, then looked back at the camp "I suspect you are hungry, I would hate to keep you from a meal."
"Yeah." Ritsuka laughed "Then again, last time I was at a camp I had Estus soup."
"Truly?" Solaire blinked "I did not know it was a Soup as well, I am more familiar with the drink."
"It was quite strange." Ritsuka furrowed his brows "It tasted of nothing, but it gave a warm feeling." he shrugged "Although Siegward said it was an undeads favourite meal, so it might be because I'm...you know…"
"That might be it indeed." Solaire laughed, then titled his head "Siegward you say? A Catarinan knight?"
"Yep." The master nodded "Big onion shaped armour."
"I am familiar with their order. Truly wonderful individuals." Solaire replied as they both walked back to camp "In fact a good friend of mine told me of a man named Siegmeyer…"
"So he looked like me, truly?" Ash asked, sitting down opposite Gareth, the young girl nodded her head.
"Yep! He really does, or did." She blinked "Its kind of weird too, I keep wanting to call you Gawain but then I remember you aren't him." she nodded her head "Although I think you do act a little bit like him?"
"Oh?"
"Yep. You've got this aura around you that makes you feel like a big brother. Although you're a little…" she snapped her fingers a few times before she grinned "A little less overbearing than Gawain. When it comes to rules and stuff." she crossed her arms "Also you don't try to ruffle my hair every time you see me."
"...I...see?" Ash blinked, titling his head and shrugging "He is your brother, it is natural."
"I'm a Knight!" Gareth pouted "Being treated like a child by him." she mumbled her her breath.
Ash snorted shaking his head "What else can you tell me of him?"
"Ah, he was labelled the Knight of the Sun!" Gareth boasted "Under the sun he was way stronger than nearly everyone else! Then he had his sword! Merlin said it was basically like a second sun or something like that." she shrugged "He didn't actually use it that often, I don't think I ever saw it."
"Knight of the sun…" Ash murmured under his breath, then let out a quiet chuckle "That is a coincidence."
"How so?" She titled her head, then widened her eyes in recognition and pointed at him "AH! You said you were in the same order as the knight with the sun on his chest!"
"A warrior of Sunlight." He replied "Although I do not draw my powers from the sun unlike your sibling."
"Yeah...I saw you set your sword on fire during the fight."
"I did."
"...Do you also place your palm against the flat end of the blade and run it across to set fire to your sword?" She asked suspiciously, her eyes slightly narrowed.
"I do…" Ash replied after a few moments then stared at her with a slightly raised eyebrow "How did you know?"
"Gawain did that too." She replied squinting at him "Although his fire wasn't black…"
"Most curious indeed."
"Yeah...your from a different world or history right?"
"Yes."
"...You sure you aren't Gawain from that world?"
"Unlikely." Ash replied with a wry smile "Although I confess I do not remember my past before I rose from the grave."
"Oh...sorry." Gareth winced "Is that a...undead thing?"
"Hmph? Oh, no." Ash shook his head "It is unique to me. Most other unkindled I encountered could remember their past...although they had been raised long before me." he shrugged "Perhaps I was simply rushed."
"...Does it bother you?"
"It is not a pressing issue on my mind." Ash shrugged "It never came up...or I never had enough time to consider it. I confess my curiosity as to my past but I will not let it deter me from our current objective." he affirmed "My personal matters should not be considered too heavily."
Ash noticed that Gareth gave him a knowing smile, as if she were privy to some secret he wasn't aware of. He mentally shrugged, it probably wasn't important.
Olga POV
"His workshop is just ahead!" Nero proclaimed as they moved towards a back room, Nero continued to strut around as if she owned that place.
Which she did.
"Wait, are you just going to enter!?" Olga asked in shock, the barge into a Magus workshop was a serious taboo. Heck that was the personal aspect alone, not discounting the likelihood of traps.
"Of course!" Nero grinned then threw the doors open "Caster! I have blessed you with a visit!"
"So I can hear." Came the dry reply from inside the room, the voice itself sounded deep and gravelly yet somehow had a refined tone to it, Olga could pick up the barely concealed anger in his voice. A feeling she empathised with at the moment, the Emperor had surprisingly little appreciation for procedure. "And these are the visitors the Firekeeper spoke of?"
"Some of them." Nero replied "Some are also elsewhere."
"How quaint." Olga entered the room and saw the servant leaned over a table, the remains of a spider on it. A glowing purple crystalline light hung above his head.
She couldn't make out his figure, as much of it was hidden beneath tattered grey robes which hung down to his ankles, along with his bare feet and what appeared to be decrepit grey skin.
A hood was pulled over his head and sat atop it was a dark copper coloured crown.
"Will you not face me when you speak? You are depriving yourself the view of my glorious figure!"
"Far be it from myself to dare gaze upon the flower of Rome." The man replied, Olga raised an eyebrow. He very clearly didn't mean it, although there was the underlying tone in his voice that he did. Apparently that was enough for Nero who preened at the compliment. Olga gave her a flat look.
That Emperor was too easy.
"Umu!" Nero nodded her head vigorously "I understand that it should be impossible for anyone to gaze upon a flower so freely, yet as Emperor it is my imperative to share my visage to all citizens!"
"They truly are blessed." The man stood up, Olga blinked at his height. Nearly 190cm if she was correct, although he didn't look well built, then again he was hidden behind loose robes. He turned around to face her, the front of his robes had a dark section of fabric hanging down over his shoulders and chest, loosely fitted around his neck were a series of copper coloured metal circles.
What caught her attention though, was his face.
Or lack there of. Instead of having facial features, he had what appeared to be a featureless head much like a mannequin, his skin was a light colour with roots growing over it and an apparently rough wooden texture.
He looked over to Nero, or as best he could without visual eyes "Now, I assume you are here for more than simply disturbing my work?"
"Of course!" Nero grinned, then gestured to Olga and Berserker "These are our allies from...where did you say it was again?"
"Chaldea." Olga helpfully supplied, the twitching of her eyebrows being her only indication of her irritation at the Emperors personality.
"Chaldea! Yes."
"I see." Caster sighed, then trailed his head over to the pair of them, jolting when he caught sight of Berserker "The Dragon Slayer armour?" he muttered lowly, then looked down to Olga.
And said nothing.
"I am Director Olga Marie Animus-"
"Hmm…" He cut her off with a curious grunt, approaching her rapidly until he towered above her, looking down.
"W-what?" She backed away slightly, hearing the metal grinding sound of Berserker moving around her to get between the two of them.
"Curious." Was all Caster said and turned away "As impressive as your Golem is, it is no more so than the creature taking residence outside the city gates."
"Cecilia said it was a he." Nero frowned "Not a 'creature'"
"It is an impressive invention." Caster admitted "Transposing a soul into armour like that is a work of great skill. However the soul has lost its power, not it is little more than a tormented mind trapped in a cold body." he tilted his head "What is that if not a creature?"
Nero frowned but said nothing, Caster seemingly took this as a victory as he turned back to Olga "Who else have you brought with you?"
"My Subordinate and his servants." Olga supplied.
"As is Cecilia's Lord!" Nero grinned "I am most pleased to be able to meet him!"
Caster abruptly stopped, ever so slowly turning to Nero "...Her lord?" he asked in a low tone.
Olga frowned, then sent a look to Cecilia, the woman sported a frown of her own.
"Indeed! Now I shall finally be granted his permission to-"
"I care not for your infatuations." Caster cut her off, then turned to Cecilia "I am, however, more curious about the Unkindled…" he approached Cecilia "It is a mystery, and a vexing one." he leaned down towards the woman "Although I suspect that it shall soon be revealed...after all." he leaned back "Firekeeprs are not commonly found...unspoilt."
"Thou have heard mine position on the matter." Cecilia replied, Olga blinked at the intensity to her voice "I shan't allow harm to befall Milord."
"Harm?" Caster chuckled "Harm shall befall him, either by my hand or another's It matters not to me." he stood stiff "And do not think me so base as become a victim of bloodlust. There are more important concerns for me."
"Who even are you?" Olga asked, crossing her arms "I shall assume you are another Servant of the other world?"
"I am." He admitted "I am Sulyvahn, Pontiff of Irythill."
AN: Oooooh
How unexpected! Why is Pontiff not with Aldrich you ask? It shall be explained next time!
Also, Firekeeper is here!
Also, no, the Ashen One and Firekeeper are not romantically involved. They aren't like that, at least to me. I always felt their relationship was more akin to close family members and lovers.
So basically their relationship is complicated.
Anyway...Yes. That was the Smelter Demon guarding the Gate.
Here are the stats for all of them!
I also won't be including Sulyvhan's Dialogue, because that would spoil his motivations.
Smelter Demon
Servant: Berserker
Strength: A
Endurance: A+
Agility: C
Mana: B
Luck: C
Noble Phantasm: C
Ardere in Anima: C (Anti-Unit-Self), Max Target: 1, Max Range: 0-2
Sets its own body alight with fire, makes close range combat difficult due to intense heat and nature of the fire.
Equivalent to A ranked magic attack within close proximity.
Class Skills
Mad Enhancement: A
Fleeting moments of semblance are rare with this one. Outside of conflict they are passive, however that does not make them any less dangerous.
They are a deceased soul forced into a metal suit. Madness brought upon by a tortured existence is expected.
Perhaps some semblance of the man who was once Alonne still linger, but the two cannot be said to be the same person.
Magic Resistance: D
Personal Skills:
Battle Continuation: EX
The Armour must be destroyed, even with the loss of the head, the suit will still continue to function
Golem: A
A suit of armour, however, rather than be animated by the memories of a previous owner.
It was created specifically to House a soul. Cannot fall victim to attacks designed to kill humans.
Mana Burst (Flame): B+
Pontiff Sulyvahn
Servant: Caster
Strength: C++
Endurance: C+
Agility: B+
Mana: A
Luck: B
Noble Phantasm: B
Sword of Judgement: B+
Sword powered by sorcery made in mockery of the Darkmoon blades. Used as his catalyst for Sorcery as well as offensive capabilities.
Profaned Greatsword: B+
Sword coated in the everlasting flames of the profaned capital can generate Equal level fire attacks
Shadowed spirit: B (Anti-unit Self)
Creates a copy of himself with slightly stats lowered by one rank
Class Skills
Territory Creation: A
Item construction: B
Magic Resistance: C
(Does not extend to fire based attacks)
Personal Skills:
Sorcery: B
Boreal Abominations: A
The crimes of Pontiff Sulyvahn are well known, if provided with fresh subjects can utilise them to create creatures.
Darkmoon Knight (False): B
"Wherever you go, the moon still sets in Irithyll, wherever you may be, Irithyll is your home."
Under the full moon Sulyvahn is granted an Increase to physical stats. Unlike a True Darkmoon knight, who will be subject to a greater boost and benefits whether the moon is shining or not. Sulyvahn's boost is limited and can only benefit him while the moon shines above him.
Mixed Blood: B
Child of the Tree Woman, as such grants him high resistance to the cold, poisons, toxins and bleeding.
However is extremely vulnerable to flames.
Pontiff's Eyes: B+
The longer he fights, the more powerful he becomes, however to get to the maximum rank would require hours of fighting
Harming foes also restores his vitality.
Espionage: A
Fairy Eyes: D
Relatively low rank due to his mixed blood.
He has a strong inkling towards deception, able to see through most lies with relative ease.
Fire Keeper
Servant: Caster
Strength: E
Endurance: E
Agility: E
Mana: A+
Luck: A
Noble Phantasm: EX
'Rise O' Champion of Ash': A+
Summons undead servant to control
Parameters are as follows
Strength: C+
Endurance: C+
Agility: C+
May only summon one at a time, no limit to how many times they can be summoned.
Max Target:-, Max Range: 0-100
Firekeepers Eyes: EX
Can see the future, only in distant visions and use of this skill is painful considering
is a recent addition to her. Ability to discern true names as well.
Class Skills:
Territory creation: A
Item Creation: B
Personal Skills:
Soul Charge: A
Temporarily boost stats to her undead servant or to another Servant
Miracles: C
Extends only to healing miracles
Burning of truth: C-
Her eyes are a recent addition and cannot be controlled. She must either use them and inflict pain upon herself, or have them disabled and remain blind.
Summoning
"I bid thee greetings. I am the Fire Keeper. Thou art free to use me as thy wishes."
Dialogue 1
"I am always available for you. It is my purpose to serve."
Dialogue 2
"I shall confess, I am most troubled by the attention I receive. I am unused to it all."
Dialogue 3
"You speak of Master Servant Relations? Thou shall rest easy. I shall treat you as I did Milord."
Dialogue 4 (If you have Ashen One)
"I feel the presence of Milord nearby. Thou art most kind to reunite us, however I fear that Milord is most protective of me."
Dialogue 5 (If you have Mysterious Heroine X)
"I bid thee greetings and...I-I beg thy pardon? A Saber? Thou art mistaken, I am a Caster. My Servant? Thy speak of the shadow of Milord? Yes, Milord is a Saber...Thou art...Forgive me, I do not believe that makes me a Saber."
Dialogue 6 (If you have Lancelot.)
"Thou art most kind in your word, Sir Knight. I also feel I should warn thee that thou art in danger, Milady Mash is approaching as well as Milord."
Dialogue 7 (If you have Gilgamesh)
"I was approached by a Golden Servant some time ago. He made inquiries as to mine eyes. It seems he possess a similar gift of foresight but keeps it restrained. I confess my...jealously as to his ability."
Dialogue 8 (If you have Undead Servants)
"Most curious, I sense a presence similar to Milord but different. It is no matter. I am a Fire keeper, that is mine role. All Undead and Unkindled are welcome to join me."
Dialogue 9 (If you have Andre)
"It is most pleasing to speak with thee again, Sir Blacksmith...Thou wishes to forgo formalities? As thou requests, Andre."
Dialogue 10 (If you have Saber Face)
"There hath been much talk recently of mine face. Apparently is most common. I confess my...confusion to this. But I shall take thy word for it."
Dialogue 11 (If you have Saber Face [Ascension 4])
"I...I can see what thy meant. Is most curious indeed."
Dialogue 12 (If you have Enkidu)
"I have spoken much with the Divine one. They are a most tranquil being, I confess some similarities between us. We each betrayed our own desired purpose for those close to us."
Dialogue 13 (If you have ?)
"There is much sadness within him, he shuns himself from mine presence. I still recognise him however...for even when alone. I sense his presence close at hand. He is still too kind."
Likes
"Likes? Thou should not trouble thyself with such...I see. I enjoy spending time with Milord...and Tea."
Hates
"Thou asks for such strong opinions...I would dislike it if I ever failed Milord."
Wish for the Holy Grail
"Mine own wish could not be granted through such means."
Bond Level 1
"Thou art most kind to speak with me. I shall still remain here to serve."
Blond Level 2
"Mine role is to act as a servant to thee, yet thou continues to treat me with kindness. Thou art generous."
Blond Level 3
"Thou art similar to Milord. He treats me with kindness as well, it is fortunate to know I serve a kind lord."
Bond Level 4
"Thy kindness continues, It would please me greatly to continue this, thou art a good soul."
Bond Level 5
"Thy treat my like a friend. For this, I am most thankful. I confess, thou can never replace Milord. But thou art a good soul. I enjoy our time."
Birthday
"This is a blessed day, thou art older."
During an Event
"Mine ears detect merriment...May haps we join them?"
1st Ascension
"Thy hath granted me strength. Is this what Milord calls irony?"
2nd Ascension
"Thou continues to strengthen me, I confess...the strain on mine eyes has lessened."
3rd Ascension
"Mine eyes hurt, but it is no longer burning. For this, I thank thee greatly."
4th Ascension
"My sight does not pain me, I am most thankful. Fire Keepers are forbidden from having eyes, yet I am most joyful to be blessed with sight."