The following story is a [FAN-FICTION]! All Fate series are all owned by TYPE-MOON, Kinoko Nasu, and its respective owners. Please support the official franchise.
Fate/hyalus Decadence
Chaos Theory F - Immoral Wounds
?/?/? Dreamscape ? - ?
I once again find myself here where I was standing in the void the moment I opened my eyes. I don't think I'll ever get used to this for once. However, Pneuma appears in front of me after what happened during the night. I couldn't remember when I saw Shizuru dying. And yet, there he is… standing there.
"Welcome back, Yusei." Pneuma continued. "I'm sure you have a lot of questions regarding what happened.
"I do." I continued. "Trying to figure out what happened… Right after I saw Shizuru dead on the floor. The whole vision was cut to black. And suddenly, I regained consciousness the moment I saw Tang dead. What happened to me?"
"…It would seem I would have to explain to you. And explain I shall." Pneuma then continued as he spoke. "After you saw Shizuru's death. The moment you were about to break down. I couldn't offer you to die because of the enemy's intent. So, I took the liberty of controlling your body and swiftly dealt with this man named Tang. Rest assured, I decided to give this body back to you in order to keep you alive."
"You… did that…?" I asked him as he nodded. I began to place my left hand to my head as I tried to remain calm and figure out why this happened. "After all this time… my brain is getting more fucked up… Even regaining your memories at the same time as well."
"Indeed, while you have done a great service in helping me. But, your work is not yet finished." Pneuma then materializes the remaining chess piece-like objects. Caster, Rider, and Assassin… three essences were already absorbed to restore his memories. He's starting to show signs of his emotion and all but… "Four remains."
Berserker, Lancer, Archer, and Saber. Would it be enough to make him whole again?
"I see. This is a long way to go, then. But I want to ask you once more. Nothing too bad but it's something you'll understand. Please don't take over my body next time." I informed Pneuma that he was a bit surprised as he nodded with his eyes closed and a small smile.
"Duly noted, Yusei Hieda. And I'll leave a piece of advice to you: Prepare for unforeseen consequences." Pneuma said as I began to think and ponder what he said. What does it mean? "Thus, you'll be forced to tackle these unprecedented hardships the more you progress. Return back to the world of the living. From now on, you'll no longer see me once you gather all the remaining four. Of course, we will talk once this is all gathered."
And so, Pneuma uses his hand as he proceeds to push me away as I proceed to return from this dream. And now… I return.
5/14/2025 Hieda Residence, Kyoto, Japan Morning - Clear Sky
I slowly began to open my eyes where I was seen sleeping on the side to look at the alarm clock there… 10:26 AM… I really overslept this time, huh? I got out of my bed and proceeded to yawn, looking outside the window to see a chilly morning with the sun out. The birds were chirping more than usual. Either way, I remember upon us returning home. Akyuu was awake and waiting for us. Of course, me and Caster told her of what happened. She broke down after hearing the news of Shizuru's death. Rest assured that I avenged her by killing Tang… Well… Pneuma killed him for me. But I just need to make sure that I won't let these emotions go rampant anymore. Consider this a lesson I should learn. Right now, she should be a bit better after mourning our maid's loss. This is just the two of us now. Well, three… Right now, we're at risk here and yet our bounded field is keeping us safe away from any potential danger. So, I left the room to do my usual morning routine… Taking a piss, brushing my teeth, and washing my face. As I did those, I proceeded to look at my face… a small scar on the side of my right cheek. When did I get that scar? Hmm… It must have been a fight against Tang when Pneuma had to deal with him. Just how strong is he, exactly? Gah! I shouldn't overthink it! It's never wise to pry further. But he did say that I'll no longer see him until all essences of Pneuma's memories are gathered. Which means I'm all alone and he expects me to pull it off. I sighed after I left the bathroom and proceeded to head downstairs where I found someone whom I'd not expect.
"Ahh, good morning to you, Yousay. Had a rough sleep, perhaps?" The voice of Luvia spoke as she was kneeling on the floor as she was having her tea. This was completely shocking. Akyuu and Caster were there at the table, too.
"L-Luvia-san!" I proceeded to walk fast and approached near the table and kneeled on the floor. "W-Why are you here? How did you even find my home?"
"I had Oryou do some scouting. Rather a decent but lavish home you have. Your little sister told me that your maid named Shizuru is dead, yes?" Luvia then mentioned about the maid as those static memories recall into my head as I snap back into reality.
"That's correct…" I said to her knowing that Pneuma did all the work. I can't reveal his existence to anyone. For now, lying is all I need to do. "I… I had to avenge her by killing the Master of Assassin. He's dead for good."
"Well either way, you did what you could." Luvia said as I noticed that August is here but no Rider and Oryou? "Say, where are Rider-san and Oryou-san?"
"They're out and about. Rider said he wanted to visit somewhere that took his interest. Never told me anything as a result. As for Astolfo… She is… recovering back at home." Luvia continued. "As for last night… Astolfo did run into Archer and his Master. Hippogriff was shot by Archer's Master. And the arrow that Archer shot pierced her left knee. I wasted no time to send Rider to head to their location. And just as they reached their supposed location… they were gone."
"I assume Astolfo survived?" I asked as she nodded. "Then you know how Servants are capable of withstanding these kinds of things. Normal humans would die from a very long fall."
"And with Assassin gone… and Archer still out in the city. Finding them all around Kyoto is going to be a struggle. And I hope you'd be willing to help me out now. Surely you wouldn't wish to leave a nice, fine lady hanging?~" Luvia said with her usual smirk as I sighed.
"I wouldn't. I'll help you find Archer. But I have an idea." I continued. "Lancer's Master… Tatsumi Kitano."
"Hm? What about him?" Luvia said.
"I could try to ask him to join us to deal with Archer. But he might be aware that I'm allied with you. Which means he sees me as an enemy. Trust me on this, Luvia. It will work." I reassured her as she would sigh.
"Well either way, the more allies… the better. But you do know what happens when we get rid of Berserker, Archer, and Saber? Yes?" Luvia asked as I knew she was thinking.
"I know." I shrugged it off and decided to look at Akyuu and Caster. "You two. When did she arrive at our house, exactly?"
"Five minutes ago, brother…" Akyuu explained as I sighed again.
"Right. Caster, you've been taking care of her, right?" I asked my Servant.
"I have, Yusei. She's feeling those signs of comfort. However, are you not going to eat that Akyuu has made?" Caster mentioned seeing the food left there on the table.
"O-Oh… right… Itadakimasu…" I said with my hand clasp together and proceeded to eat. But I noticed when I looked at Luvia. "You're not eating?"
"There is no need. All I care about the most is tea." Luvia said with her usual expression as she flicked her hair elegantly. "As for that Tatsumi fellow… If you can get him on our side… perhaps the chances to fight Archer and his Master will increase?"
"And if the Rogue Servants were to get involved?" I asked.
"Try to get them to help us. Simple. Yet, I fear the Ruler's wrath should we break those rules. For now, do what you can." Luvia said as I nodded.
"Sure thing, princess." I said to her sarcastically as I continued to eat my food. "And that reminds me. Can you look after Akyuu for me? She'll be alone and I can't take the role of being a sitter. So maybe you'd be good with kids."
"B-Brother… I'm not a kid…" Akyuu pouted as I chuckled but Luvia then looked at her.
"Worry not, Yousay. I'm quite familiar with handling children so say the least. I learned from my experience of looking after Miyu." I then proceeded to finish up my food and stood up.
"Yusei. We are going to find Mr. Tatsumi… yes?" Caster asked me as I nodded.
"That's the whole plan. The more allies, the better. So let's go, I don't know where he'll be but I have a place where I want to try hanging out at. I'm sure you've heard of an arcade before?" I said to Caster the moment she stood up after I got dressed to protect myself from the morning's chill and walked next to me.
Third Person POV
"Surely, I have not." Caster replied as the two would proceed the leave the residence. Leaving for both Luvia and Akyuu in this home.
"Is… Is my brother going to be okay? He's been at it ever since the whole Holy Grail War began." Akyuu said to the Finnish magus.
"Don't fret." Luvia continued. "Your brother is doing his best to protect you from any future harm."
"But… once all the enemies are defeated. Does that mean that you'll fight each other next?" Akyuu was worried about this outcome should it happen. This gave Luvia some thought about this… Would she ever consider fighting Yusei?
"Of course not." Luvia said. "Even though this is a Holy Grail War. I'm sure your dear brother has his own reason to fight for."
"I… I see. With our parents and maid gone. I… I don't know what to do." Akyuu then begins to question with worry. Something has clouded her mind with a negative thought. Luvia can't help but feel sad about why the Hieda family are forced to survive on their own without a parent and a maid. Luvia did nothing but speak… Would she feel sympathy? Only time will tell.
Trailblazer Arcades, Kyoto, Japan Daytime - Clear Skies
First Person POV
And here we are… the arcades. It's my first time being here but I'm all too familiar with how arcade machines work. People come and play by inserting their coins back in the past. Now, people are using these cards to play. Man, time surely flies by. This was Caster's first time here but I was seen using one of the claw machines to kill some time. She was of course watching me play. This one here gives me an option to insert a coin or use a card… But I don't have a card so I wouldn't care. The sound of the claw dropping down to grab a plushie prize of a fox as it grabbed the ear. Unfortunately… it dropped right before it could hold it for that long.
"Damn…" I cursed to myself silently.
"Something wrong?" Caster asked.
"Nothing." I replied as I was about to insert another coin to go at it again. The arcades here look busy with all of these people around. Sure, another coin would give me another shot. Until…
"Huh? Yusei-san?" The voice spoke to me as I was familiar with the moment I turned to see. Caster, too.
"Tatsumi-san. So you are here." I said to him as he took off the hood to reveal his face.
"Tell me about it…" Tatsumi continued. "I'm just trying to survive without trouble. For some reason… Berserker is the only person that we should avoid from now on."
"And I still disapprove of your decision to use one of your Command Seals to get out of here. I could've taken him on easily. His anger is simply clouded by his own indecisive judgment." Lancer spoke the moment we looked at his Command Seal. So she speaks the truth… He did waste one.
"I rather prioritize safety rather than choosing fights that are uneven. We can't fight him. It'll only get you killed…" Tatsumi said as I spoke in.
"Look, now that you're here. I'm gonna be straight to the point." I continued. "I'm allied with Luvia. I understand that you're still looking for an ally in this war to stop… But we need your help."
"Go on…?" Tatsumi said with his brows raised.
"We need help in taking down Archer's Master. The problem is… The Master's Servant is in our way and they're crafty in their escape plans." I continued as I maintained my composure. "Luvia's Servant was… injured and we're running out of ideas on taking down Archer… So maybe your Servant can pick Archer off?"
"Fight Archer? I thought two is enough." Tatsumi said.
"You may say there but… it's much more than that. Trust me on this. We just need an extra hand… Do we have a deal?" I proceeded to lend out my hand the moment he looked at it and looked back at my eyes.
"Fine. If you need my help then I don't mind." Tatsumi said. "But in exchange… help me stop the Holy Grail War."
"Really? Still on to that?" I said to him in confusion.
"I am. Berserker took the lives of innocent people last night. Like he was a rampaging bull." Tatsumi continued as he looked at his hand and clenched it. "Blood was everywhere and their bodies were cut down into minced meat. I… I can't stand this. I will not stand for it. So, will you agree with my demands? This is something for your ally to understand."
"Fine… I'll let her know of you joining us and your reasons as well. Let me give her a call." We shook hands for a few seconds and let go. I proceeded to grab out my phone and gave Luvia a call… "Luvia. I got an ally… Yeah but there's a catch from Tatsumi. He wants to help us in stopping a war. I know but… what other choice do we have? Glad you're on board with having another ally. The location…? Got it…"
I ended the call as I looked back at Tatsumi.
"It's official." I said to him as he was surprised. "She agreed."
"Man… I was expecting a 'no' would happen but… I'm glad. Thanks…" Tatsumi said with a small smile. "As you're wondering why I'm here… I'm here to play some games and relax my mind. So I was hoping to kill some time?"
"I'm down. If you wanna play some arcades there. By my guest. Me and Caster are simply killing time." I said to him as he shook his head.
"Thanks for the offer but… I wanna play one particular game. A fighting game so per say. Lancer, mind if you hang around with Yusei and Caster?" Tatsumi said as Lancer nodded without speaking. "Cool. Make sure you have some fun, Yusei-san."
And so, Tatsui was on his own just to find his own entertainment here. What an odd guy…
"Yusei, Caster." Lancer said as we looked at her. "We need to talk somewhere, privately."
"Huh? Why?" Caster asked.
"I don't want my Master in this conversation but… I hope you'll understand." Lancer said as I blinked my eyes. Me and Caster looked at each other in confusion.
And so, minutes later… We were in the alleyway between the arcade and a random building where no one could overhear our conversation as the pedestrians were going about their lives.
"Lend me your hand." Lancer asked.
"Huh? Why?" I asked in confusion.
"Just don't answer. Lend out your hand." Lancer said as I did so. And the moment Lancer placed her hand on mine.
"W-What are you-" I was interrupted… The dark magenta glow appeared out of her body as it started to flow into me. This is her essence… Caster saw this again as I did with other Servants previously as Lancer didn't seem to care. And just as that… the glow was gone after I absorbed another one. "This is… Guh!?"
[BA-THUMP!]
The heat beats and the mind aches again. Of course it's happening again. Caster was holding me to help me stand as I felt this pain. I did my best to resist it as much as I can from this mental stress. Caster was trying to get her words to reach me but the sounds outside were muffled. And then, I started to vision more of Pneuma's memories once again as the vision flashes before my eyes…
The vision of this memory shows me the being… confronting this strange man with white hair. The man had done something to send the being away as the black hole began to swallow it away before it shrinks. And just as that… the being was gone. And the strange man sat on this weird chair and spoke…
"Rest assured, you will not invade this domain… Thus, I banish you from whence you came, Ultima…"
And so, the vision stops as my mind snaps back into reality… I was back as I was gasping for air lightly.
"Who was he…?" I said to myself silently.
"Yusei! Are you alright? You've been acting like this for however long now…" Caster said to me with a worried look.
"Don't worry, it's… an experience." I said to her as I looked at Lancer. "As for you… Why… Why would you do this?"
"I saw what you did last night. The moment you touched Assassin… you took her weapons and made it your own. You slew her Master in the process. I know that something is strange about you." Lancer continued. "I… I couldn't be straight with my Master as he clings onto this foolish ideal. Yet, he may be ignorant to himself. And so, my hunches are correct… You do indeed steal weapons off of Servants. How much do you wield?"
"If you're asking this question… I kinda lost count." I lied with a straight face.
"Is that so? Then it's a shame. However… once we get rid of our enemies… I wish to fight you. If you can replicate my weapons in a duel against me, that is." Lancer said as this right here… is concerning.
"Against you? You'd kill me in seconds!" I exclaimed. "Plus, I don't even know how to use two of your spears! You're the Queen of the Land of Shad-"
"Shh! Not in public…" Lancer continued. "There is no doubt, Yusei. You used Assassin's blades to fight against the Master with ease. Almost compared to a Servant, at least. So promise me this, Yusei… Will you fight me once we get rid of Berserker, Archer, and Saber?"
"…Fine." I said to her with a disappointed sigh.
"Then the deal is final. Let us head back. My master is going to worry again the moment he becomes dumbfounded in his own fantasies." Lancer said she would head back on her own.
"Yusei… Are you sure?" Caster asked. "Fighting her will get you killed. Even though you somehow… absorbed Lancer's… whatever that is."
"Don't worry. I just need to make sure that I survive. But if I somehow obtain her weapons… Does that mean I learned her fighting style almost instantly? Perhaps this might be the bleeding effect that I've heard about… Well whatever, Caster… Let's head back to the arcades. I was hoping to play some games."
"G-Games?" Caster said with a surprise. "W-Well, I don't mind if you would allow me to join you but yes… I'd love to."
Streets, Kyoto, Japan Midnight - Clear Skies
As the sun settles and night rises. The moon was shining from above. Me and Luvia were already at the empty streets that we're supposed to meet. Rider and Oryou were there, too. Astolfo is once again not around. However, we noticed that Tatsumi and Lancer had arrived as promised.
"So, you must be Luvia-san, right?" Tatsumi asked her.
"Of course.~ Who wouldn't I be?" Luvia continued. "With all of us gathered. I believe It's time to start a full on attack against Archer and its Master."
"E-Ehh… doesn't it feel overkill?" Tatsumi asked as he scratched the back of his head.
"Nonsense! This is the only way to make Archer pay for injuring Rogue Rider. That, I will not stand. Once I get her Master, I'll make sure that Master will remember my Edelfelt name! Ohohohoho~" Luvia laughed with her usual ojou-sama behavior as both me and Tatsumi sweatdropped.
"Yup… just like that…" Me and Tatsumi spoke in unison.
"Oh? Did I hear something wrong, boys?" Luvia then lightly glared at us as we quickly reacted.
"N-Nothing!" We responded in unison again.
"U-Umm… Now's not the time to chat. Don't we all have a search for Archer to do? I heard they're quite proficient at long range." Caster said as I looked at her.
"Archer-class Servants are as dangerous as they can be, Caster. If the Servant fires an arrow from the top of the mountain all the way to the big city. Someone will get killed right on the spot. Bows are silent… Guns are loud. There is a difference between weapons and projectiles altogether. So we may need to-" As I was about to explain…
[FWIP!]
"Fletchling!" Lancer called out to her Master and pushed him out of the way the moment she summoned her two spears and blocked it…
[CLANG!]
An arrow! From which direction!? We all took position to hide behind the buildings.
"Luvia!" I called out to her.
"It's Archer, alright!" Luvia continued. "And talk about timing, too! Seems that servant is willing to kill us. But it won't be easy since we're stronger in numbers!"
"Then I will handle Archer." Lancer said as this brought Tatsumi's attention the moment she dashed off to the direction where it was fired.
"H-Hey!" Tatsumi said as I stopped him.
"Tatsumi." I said. "Let her. I think she can pull this off. But Caster, I do have a plan in mind…"
The moment I talked to Caster about my plan… Her eyes widened in shock. Knowing what I'm about to do next.
Third Person POV
[CLING! CLANG! TWANG! BWANG!]
Lancer easily deflected the arrows as she was running on the asphalt road to pursue her enemy's position. In the mountains… Archer was seen drawing another bow as he was preparing to fire.
"Archer, what's your status?" Archer's Master, Gabri asked her Servant as she appeared next to him.
"Seems Lancer is coming towards my position. But I think I can stop her in her tracks. So I'll need a lot of time!" Archer said to his Master as he fired a bow.
"Don't worry, I'll cover fire support for you. She won't know what it'll hit.~" Gabri replied that she could see Lancer there through the sniper scope. So, she decided to pull the trigger…
[BANG!]
"Huh!?" Lancer heard the noise from her left as she used her red spear on her left hand to twirl it, deflecting the incoming bullet away. Yet, she decided to continue running.
"She's still running towards us? What's our plan?" Archer asked.
"The usual." Gabri replied as he smiled.
"Hah. I know what you mean. Lure her and we attack her from all sides." Archer said as Gabri would proceed to use her magic circuits on her legs to leap up on the tree.
"Use the trees to your advantage when she arrives. I just have a feeling that the other Masters might be looking for me…" Gabri said to her as Archer would nod in response.
As one minute has passed, Lancer has quickly arrived within the dense forest mountains to find out Archer and his Master are not where.
"They're here somewhere… I'm sure of it…" Lancer said to herself as she would pay attention to her surroundings…
[FWOOSH!]
An arrow…
[CLANG!]
Deflected.
[BANG!]
A bullet.
[TWANG!]
Deflected. The projectiles were coming from left and right. She can sense then hiding within the trees as if they were leaping from one tree to another… Lancer kept her focus to find out where they would land. But she would focus on getting his Master's first. And then…
"Found you…!" Lancer then threw her red spear as it streaked across the forest like a bullet, piercing through the trees with the burst of wind.
Gabri noticed a red streak of light shooting towards her… She had already planned this out. Her tactics work. So, she smirked.
[BWANG!]
An arrow shot the tip of the spear to redirect its course away as it pinged right onto the other tree up top. Lancer knows that Archer is protecting her somehow. And this didn't worry her nor care. She needed to kill the Master… or kill the Servant. But killing the Master would be much quicker but she decided to leap up on the top of the tree and use her left hand to call back her spear. The spear that was stuck on the three began to vibrate as it would move on its own, flying back right to Lancer's left hand.
"Tch…" Lancer remained quiet but had already figured out where she would be…
She dashed forward from tree to tree with every leap. And then, she would find Gabri who eventually had her sniper rifle jammed as she struggled to pull the bolt. Archer's Master would notice that she is prepared to be killed by the red spear until Archer dashed in, using his Bow to block the pinpointed attack of her spear as the two would fall on the floor and land.
"Thanks for the save, Archer." Gabri thanked her Servant.
"Ahahaha! Don't mention it. All in the need to stop her from getting you." Archer said as she twirled her spear once more. "You're not much of a talkative type, are you?"
"I'm only here for your Master. But fighting you is proven to be expected. If you intend to protect her, then I'll make sure that you need to die first." Lancer said as she would be straightforward as she readied her stance again. But that is until she noticed a portal of water appearing behind Archer as he was unaware. As it was opened, the hand began to come out and grabbed Archer's shoulder. Then… Yusei has appeared out of the water. This time, Caster wasn't around as she had to look after Tatsumi, Luvia, Rider, and Oryou.
"Got you! GRRGH…!" Yusei said as Archer turned around to notice behind him until the green aura began to come out and flow into Yusei's body. Archer tried to get him off as he struggled. "Sorry… I just need something from you…!"
"Get… off!" Archer struggled as Yusei began to feel the pain as he braced for it. For Yusei, he had somehow gotten used to it and became resistant to this happening. He isn't willing to let go but this was something that he needed. And then… Yusei's vision switches into one of the memories belonging to Pneuma.
Another memory begins to show the planet. The one Pneuma had made. Then the vision shows more where the timeframe was different as it was in the era of World War II. It looked like an Imperial Capital from the old photos from the history books. But it also showed a Holy Grail War there. A boy, displaced in time, who came into contact with a Servant in a train. And then… everything cuts to black from a static. Yusei then returns back to reality with both him and Archer on the floor while the Master of Caster begins to catch breath again and stands up.
"Yusei… Why are you here!?" Lancer demanded to ask him.
"Sorry, Lancer. This was something that I planned for. Since he'll be getting up soon looking tired. Why not kill him and be done with it?" Yusei said to Lancer as she looked down on Archer who was struggling to get up after what happened.
"Hmph. You made it easier for me. So I will do-" Lancer was interrupted by a gunshot as Lancer deflected it.
"You will not." Gabri said as she landed down on the ground and held gunpoint at Yusei with her revolver in her hand. "You… What have you done to him…?"
"He'll be fine. But it's something that you don't want to know. Nor do I feel like talking to you about that glowing thing that flowed in my body." Yusei said to Gabri as he remained composed.
"Don't make excuses! You better talk… Now…" Gabri said to him knowing he'll put himself at risk. But all throughout his life… he already made a decision in this Holy Grail War… He'll fight.
"You can try…" Yusei said as he projected the katana and revolver on his hands. Gunpointing Gabri back. "But you'll have to kill me for an answer."
"A bad mistake for a Master like you to die on a battlefield. This will be your grave." Gabri said as she would also bring out her bayonet as the two would fight somewhere in the forest.
Back at Lancer where Archer begins to stand up from what happened.
"Geez… Never would I expect someone to do a surprise on me… And let me guess, you still want to kill me, don't you?" Archer asked her.
"…Yes." Lancer replied as the latter sighed.
"Well, I guess it can't be helped. You may be good with a spear, Lancer. But I'm quick on the draw!" Archer said he would regain his stamina quickly and leaped up in the air as he fired a spread of arrows directly at Lancer.
Meanwhile within the other parts of the forest where the gunshots were heard. Yusei and Gabri were in a deadly shootout within the tree as they exchanged shots at each other. But the bullets collide them with every impact. The bleeding effect and reactive instinct has already taken hold of Yusei as this experience of Rider's combat style has been transferred into him. But for how he wields a gun. That, too, is part of the bleeding effect. Running along the trees against each other. Their bullets only collided with each other more and more until the two hid behind the tree away from each other. The two would take deep breaths and proceed to step out of the cover and pull the trigger…
[CLICK…]
Nothing… No bullets were fired as the two noticed and quickly hid back at the tree where Yusei checked the cylinder of the revolver as he pushed out of the used bullets and nearly forgot… He doesn't know how to reload…
"Damn it… How do I even get more bullets?" Yusei said as he tried to think. "Tch… This is getting nowhere. Might as well think differently…"
As for Gabri. She reloaded her revolver using her spare speedloader for her revolver as she loads it in after getting rid of the used ones. So, she decided to speak once more… but Yusei isn't showing up. She decided to approach this situation slowly with every step she takes. The moment she got closer to the tree where Yusei was hiding… She quickly checked with her revolver aimed to find out… he wasn't there.
"Gone?" Gabri said to herself in confusion. That is until…
[BLAM! CLANG! CLASH!]
Gabri quickly turned around to fire her revolver. But Yusei had already deflected it with his katana and tried to strike her down. But she used her bayonet in time to block the incoming strike to protect herself. She kicks him back as she keeps her distance away from her enemy. But Yusei isn't willing to stand down and submit defeat. He needed a way to defeat her but her quick reflexes are the problem.
"You're not bad…" Yusei said to her.
"Same to you… Was wondering if you'll ever give up." Gabri asked him.
"Me? Never. I have a war to win…!" Yusei replied as he maintained his focus in order to defeat her through any means necessary. As he was prepared to take a stance again… He was notified… that something went wrong…
"Yusei! This is bad!" Caster spoke as she continued to talk to him within his mind. "Saber… Saber is here!"
"What!?" Yusei then looked the other way where he ran towards the edge of the mountain to look at the city where his allies were at.
"Well now? Decided to stop fighting? What gives?" Gabri asked him.
"Saber… is here…" Yusei told her with a serious expression as the wind blew through his hair lightly…
-[TWO MINUTES BEFORE]-
Back at the streets where Tatsumi, Caster, Luvia, Rider, and Oryou were still seen taking cover after Caster had to teleport her Master to where Archer and Lancer were fighting. Tatsumi was seen yawning as he tried to stay awake.
"Well now, did you drink coffee?" Luvia asked him as he shook his head.
"I don't drink coffee… it ain't my forte." Tatsumi continued. "What I'm more worried about is Lancer. She's fighting Archer but… not sure if she can pull this off…
"She'll do fine. Lancer is still on par with Archer in terms of speed, so no need to worry about it." Luvia said after she brought up the discussion involving Lancer versus Archer. Yet, Tatsumi doesn't get it at all as he remains oblivious to this day.
"I… I don't get it… What about you, Caster? How did you even beat my Servant?" Tetsumi asked Yusei's Servant as she pondered.
"Hmmm… Well, I only used spells to keep Lancer at bay with water pillars and such. And I even used water orbs, too." Caster explained how she'd do it as Tatsumi sweatdrops again.
"Still… I don't get it…" Tatsumi continued as he looked back at Luvia. "And what about your Servant over there? What can he do? Ride on things?"
"That's pretty much my job." Rider said with an awkward response.
"Oryou doesn't understand this kid at all…" Oryou added in response.
"Right, I guess I said my words. But yeah…" Tatsumi continued as he looked at his hand. "For a while, I've always wanted to live a decent life… And now that I'm thrown into this madness… People getting involved to die… a bunch of innocents dying in this 'war' as they call it. Luvia-san. I know you understand my intentions. No matter what… I will end this war. So no one will get hu-"
[STAB! GUSH! SPLURT!]
Suddenly… a sword was stabbed right into Tatsumi's chest as blood spilled out as it stained Caster's clothes in the process as everyone saw… The sword pulls itself out as the mortally wounded Tatsumi falls onto the floor. The one responsible… was Saber…
"No matter what you believe in your foolish reasons. Your pathetic ideals… end." Saber announces as she stands there with an ominous presence.
-[CURRENT]-
Now… with the wounded Tatsumi on the floor. Luvia was prepared to confront Saber but Rider stepped in to protect her Master.
"Rider. I will not forget the night you scratched my armor upon our first meeting. This I will never forget." Saber growled as it revealed a scratched dent on her chestplate. "For that, I have been waiting for this moment during my patrol. Now that you're here, I will kill you along with your Master."
"I can do it again, if you'd like." Rider said with his usual tone and smile as he has his hand on his white fedora.
"Bring it on, bitch. I'm not afraid to break your jaw." Oryou taunted as she would put off her fists to prepare herself in such an unamused but threatening tone.
"Watch your words, skank. This will be your death sentence." Saber said as she readied her sword on one hand as Caster would try to step in with her staff to stop her.
"Saber… That's enough…" Caster said to her.
"Stand down, Caster… This doesn't concern you. So stand aside." Saber said as she would lightly push her aside as Saber intended to fight her opponents she chose directly.
"Oryou. Are you ready?" Rider asked his partner.
"Oryou's ready to kick her ass. I'll eat her flesh, too!" Oryou replied as Luvia would flick her hair.
"Honestly… To think Saber would appear once again. And no Manaka in sight… Rider, you know what to do. I will offer my mana to you." Luvia then proceeded to reveal her Command Seal under her long sleeved gloves as it was glowing red. "By the first order of my Command Seal… Rider, take my mana and defeat Saber!"
The seal glows brightly as the first command was activated by Luvia. Rider and Oryou felt the surge within them.
"Now that's more I like it." Rider said as he looked at Saber. "Let us continue this dance from before, shall we?"
Meanwhile back at the forest where Lancer and Archer were fighting. As Lancer was about to take down a weakened Archer… Her spear stops midway close to his neck. She started to lower her weapon and looked to the side upon realizing that something happened…
"Tatsumi…" Lancer said upon realization as Archer scratched the back of his head.
"Well now, I guess your Master got killed, huh? A shame. It truly is. I was hoping we'd fight more but… it seems you don't have much time left in this world. All but to return to the Throne." Archer said as he looked where he city to find out that a presence is there. "I see… So another Servant appeared."
Then, at the forests where Yusei and Gabri watched. She knew this would happen.
"Out of all things… It has to be Saber… Why now?" Gabri said to herself. "Oh well, I guess it can't be helped after all."
"Huh? What are you…?" Yusei asked her as she was intending to do something.
"Archer. I think now's your chance to bag the kill for ourselves. If you're willing to sacrifice your life, that is." Gabri said to her Servant.
"Master… Are you sure?"
Archer asked her as she nodded.
"Yup. Consider this… our parting gift." Gabri then proceeds to use her hand to reveal her Command Seal. But it was down to one… did she use two of the remaining seals from the past nights? If so, then what happened. And yet, she was willing to make this one last shot.
"Stop…" Yusei tried to speak to her but she wouldn't listen.
"By my third and last Command Seal… Archer, take all of my everything… and blast the city to smithereens!" Gabri had announced her last use of her Command Seal as it activates. Back at the areas where Archer was seen standing on the top of the tree where he proceeds to draw an arrow of light the moment he proceeds to draw the arrow back from the string… to aim at the part of the city where Saber is fighting Rider. Damage like this could be catastrophic. But… this was Archer's own… Noble Phantasm.
"Take my life… all of it…" Archer chanted as he would proceed to pull it even further back as the bow was starting to reach its limit…
Back at the streets… The violent clash between Saber and Rider was interrupted where Rider on the other hand whose clothing was torn up and his body was bruised with cuts. The two noticed a shining star coming from that mountain.
"A… Noble Phantasm…? But why now!?" Luvia said in confusion.
"So our opponent from afar intends to take us? How impeccable." Saber said as she was rather unamused but disappointed that her duel to the death was disrupted.
"I'm afraid so. However… I may be able to stop it if possible." Rider presumed of this idea the moment he turned to look at his Master. "Master. I know this is risky but… This might be our goodbye."
"R-Rider? What are you talking about? You? Oryou? You intend to stop it…? But Archer-" Luvia was interrupted as he would wipe her tears away.
"Don't cry… Smile. That is all I ask. If we don't make it. Then we might all well keep it as is. But I will say this to you… You have Yusei-san… He deeply cares about you, after all." Rider then mentions the Master of Caster as she realized about Yusei in her mind. She blushed about it but it was time…
"Saber. This will be our farewell. I understand our duel was cut short. But for the sake of this country… I will not allow it to be destroyed. Just as it was done to Tokyo eighty years ago." Rider said to his opponent as Saber sighed.
"If you need to get it done then do it. I have no reason to be here. But farewell, young warrior. It's been an honor… knowing you." Saber said as she would turn around and disappear out of thin air. Saber was indeed gone again.
And so, Rider stood in the middle of the street to look at the star of light in front of them.
"So it's time? Sakamoto?" Oryou said his name intentionally as he started to chuckle the moment he had his smile with his hand to his fedora.
"It is, Oryou." Rider said as he would proceed to prepare himself. "Let this be… Ryoma Sakamoto's final sacrifice!"
And so… Rider's True Name, Ryoma Sakamoto. The influential figure, a samurai of the Bakumatsu period of the Edo Era. The one who pushed the overthrow of the government. To mark a new age of Japan. This was the sacrifice he was willing to take. And to take it he shall. So, he proceeds to gather all of the prana around him as Oryou begins to react… And so the stage is set… Oryou then begins to sink into the ground as black goop all over Rider… Then… it rose up a large serpent-like creature where Rider stood on her head.
"Orochi of the earth, sealed by Amasakahoko... I alone know the truth of my deeds." Rider said as he proceeded to unsheathe his katana once more into its shimmering brilliance. However, Archer would release his own Noble Phantasm at the same time as well. And so.. The clash of two Noble Phantasms begins…
"STELLAAAAAAAA!"
"Amakakeru… RYU GA GOTOKU!"
Oryou roared as it dashed towards the light that Archer shot towards the city as Rider pointed the sword to command the serpent to chase the light. So, it flew towards the arrow the moment it ate the arrow… The glow begins to glow brightly until…
[KA-BOOM!]
The massive explosion was triggered midair the moment Oryou ate the arrow of light in such a reaction as this. Rider and Oryou were caught in the blast as it somehow stopped it from having the city destroyed on such a massive scale. A massive burst of wind began to spread all throughout the city as Luvia, Caster, Yusei, and Gabri had protected themselves from the burst. As for Lancer she saw the light coming from where Archer fired as her body began to glow into the motes of light. Knowing that she had lived for long enough in this world.
"I leave everything to you… Yusei…" Lancer said as her body disappears into golden motes of light. Returning back into the Throne. And after the light died down… Archer suddenly disappears as well. And as for Rider and Oryou… they were gone for good. Their sacrifices were not in vain. Luvia couldn't help but cry as Caster would try to help cheer her up.
After that it was all over… Yusei couldn't help but watch as the city was protected… all thanks to Rider and Oryou's effort.
"Well… that didn't go well." Gabri continued as he would look at her. "Seems I'm eliminated from the war. There's no need to kill me, Master of Caster. I'm expected to return back and report to my boss after what happened."
Yusei couldn't respond knowing that she is no longer a Master. No longer required to kill her. Or allow Gabri to be killed by others. Her Command Seals are gone. Yet, he still couldn't respond.
"By the way, you should check back on your friends after what happened. Just forget as if we've met. My job here is done. Simple as that." Gabri said she would bring out a handheld device as she pulls the pin and drops it. "Until then, Master of Caster… Żegnam Cię!"
"W-Wait-" The moment Yusei tried to talk to her…
[POOF!]
A cloud of smoke bursts out of the bomb as it obscures his vision. But as it dies down… she is gone… Knowing that he'll never know her name… perhaps it's best to leave it well enough alone. He decided to return back to the streets where the others were. After asking Caster for a portal back. He did so to meet up with the others to find Tatsumi's body where he rushed up to him where his wounds were severe.
First Person POV
"Tatsumi! W-What… What happened!?" I tried to ask him. What happened to him? Why did he get a large wound? Who attacked him… However, I started to hear him cough as he looked so bloodied. He's alive but… won't last longer…
"H-Hey… Y-Yusei…" Tatsumi said as he coughed.
"Don't speak. I'll try to call an ambulance to get you recovered if possible." I said to him the moment I tried to get my phone out but his land lightly touched my arm.
"D-Don't…" Tatsumi continued. "I'm going to die anyway… It's my fault… for not paying attention… W-Where's… Lancer…?"
"Most likely gone…" I said to Tatsumi as he tried to speak to me.
"I see… Yusei… Forget about me… I'm sure… my parents… will cry after I die. But… let me give you one… final request…" Tatsumi continued as he coughed. "Please… end this war…"
"Alright, Tatsumi… I will…" I said to him as he had a weak smile on his face.
"Thank you… Yusei… Fare…well…" Tatsumi then said his last word… his body no longer responds as it falls… Tatsumi Kitano is dead… But now… Now that I know the reason. Tatsumi's ambition. His ideal. His desire… I'll carry it for him… And that's what I'm going to do. So I stood up and saw Caster and Luvia.
"Yusei… He's… He's gone… isn't he?" Caster said to me as I nodded.
"He is… But I decided to carry his will…" I said to her as Luvia stood forward.
"His will?" Luvia asked.
"To end the Holy Grail War… I don't know why. Nor why he wants it to end. But now I understand… people die for what they believe in their ideals. Losing their chance such as this… I cannot let Kyoto turn into a sea of flames if this goes on… I fear Manaka and Saber. As if they're watching us and our every move we take. It's like a chess board we stand on." I continued as I clenched my fist. "So I've decided… ending the Holy Grail War would be the only option I can do… All I ask is your help, you two…"
"If this is your choice you wish to follow… Then I will support you with every step of the way, Yusei." Caster continued. "As your Caster and a friend, we will see this through."
"W-Well… Now that I've lost both my Command Seal and my Servant… I suppose I'll help you as well." Luvia said as the two would agree to help me. This put a smile on my face.
"Thank you, you two. Why not we all go home and call it a night? I'd like to hold a meeting at our house tomorrow morning to assess what's going on and figure out what's next. With Assassin, Lancer, Archer, and now Rider out… All that leaves is…" As I was about to talk further… Caster spoke in.
"Me, Berserker… and Saber…" Caster said as she got that right.
"Exactly. Two more enemies to face along with their Masters. This is going to be a long war. For now, let's call it here." I said to Luvia as she would nod.
"You are correct. Though, I have to check up on Astolfo to see she's okay after what happened. But you take care of yourself, Yousay. You're in the final stretch. But don't die, alright?" Luvia said as she would leave on her own. And so it leaves us two.
"I won't." I replied as she left the moment I looked at Caster. "Caster… Let's go home. And… no portal this time. I just want to take a breath of fresh air again."
Though I'd love fresh air, Caster didn't seem to mind my decision.
"Very well, Yusei. But there is something I need to ask you." Caster said as I listened to her. Yet, she was concerned. "It's about Saber…"
"Saber? What about her?" I asked.
"She's… As if she knows me. It's strange…" And so, Caster spoke up about this as this brought you my surprise. What does it have to do with Saber, exactly? I… I don't get it at all…
Sajyou Residence, Kyoto, Japan Midnight - Clear Sky
Third Person POV
"Is that so? Archer and Rider are out of the picture?" Manaka continued as she pondered the fact of this happening. Then, she would laugh in joy and clap her hands. "Ahahahahaha!~ Amazing… Truly amazing!~ Never would I think the two would go out with a bang! But Lancer is also out, too?"
"As far as I know, yes." Saber replied.
"Good. Then that leaves three… Berserker is still around but he's not worth my time. All he thinks is violence all night long. Truly this brute knows no bounds." Manaka said as she decided to relax and remain calm. "Our goal to obtain the Grail draws near. And that will not stop me from summoning the Beast to bring forth armageddon."
"M-Master… There is something I want to ask. Think of this as my request." Saber asked her Master as she was willing to listen.
"Hmm? What is it, Saber? Do speak your mind." Manaka said to her as Saber nodded.
"I'd like to find Caster myself…" Saber said as this makes her curious.
"Hmm? Her? May I ask why you're interested in Caster?" Manaka asked her the question as she was willing to respond.
"It's… important… I'd like to see her myself…" Saber then lets out a small smile. "And have a chat…"
[TO BE CONTINUED…]
Author's Notes: Thank you for reading this chapter. Well… things happened quickly, didn't it? Tatsumi Kitano died at the hands of Saber. Archer tried to destroy the city while sacrificing his life while Rider had to use Oryou to intervene, bidding farewell to his Master Luvia to stop that Noble Phantasm. Of course, the two would be out of the war. Lancer also seemed to be eliminated, too. And now, it is down to three Servants… Caster, Berserker, and Saber. Been working tirelessly on this story but I'll definitely keep going. There will be no Glossary or Omake from here on out but please look forward to what's next. Until then, peace out.