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Fate/hyalus Decadence
Anamnesis I - Dead Man Walking
5/15/2025 Edelfelt Residence, Kyoto, Japan Afternoon - Clear Skies
It was afternoon. Ever since that last night, I couldn't get it out of my head. Seeing Tatsumi die… I haven't been feeling easy as of late. Being haunted by the nightmares of losing people like this. The Holy Grail War is still ongoing but I'm at the last stretch. Berserker and Saber are the only two that stand in my way. But the only problem is… Who is Berserker's Master… I'll figure it out the more I go. Akyuu is at home since I've decided to visit Luvia more often. We entered inside to find out… that Astolfo has recovered but has taken the liberty to wear something different… She… decided to act as the maid of this household.
"Hey, hey!~ Glad to see you two again! I'm all better after what happened!~ Not only that… Luvia-sama gave me something cool! Look! It's a maid outfit! And it fits so well! Tell me, Yusei! Do you like it?~" Astolfo has asked me what I think… Well…
"I have no comment…" I replied.
"Same." Caster replied but this disappointed the Rogue Servant.
"Geez! You're no fun…" Astolfo pouted.
"Ahem… Astolfo, please don't bother Yousay. I expected him to come here." Luvia said as she arrived to see us.
"Hey there, Luvia." I continued with a simple waving gesture. "How are things right now? I mean… when you lost your main Servant…"
"I remember." Luvia said. "Ryoma Sakamoto… He sacrificed himself to protect the city from being destroyed by such a destructive Noble Phantasm such as this."
"He did the right thing, Luvia. No need to be worried about his right decision. You have Astolfo with you, right? I'm sure she'll handle all of the fighting from here on out." I said to her as this concerns her.
"True but… all Astolfo ever does is adventuring instead of helping me." Luvia said as the Rogue Rider turned around to look at her in shock.
"Hey! I just wanted to explore all around Japan! It wouldn't hurt, right?" Astolfo said as I spoke in.
"Even if you did, you're most likely bound to the city's main leyline. Go too far, you'll disappear." I corrected her of this outcome as she somewhat agrees with me.
"Y-You're right, I guess… But still! I wanna see more of what Kyoto has to offer-" Astolfo was cut off as this ticked off Luvia.
"Astolfo… No exploring…" Luvia warned her with her ominous presence as she sweatdrops.
"Y-Yes… Luvia-sama…" Astolfo replied as she decided to take a stand back.
"Now then, where was I… You know the reason why I called you?" Luvia said as I spoke.
"For a talk, right?" I asked her that. But she shook her head.
"A talk yes. But… it has to do something… with that magecraft of yours. Or should I say… your power?" Luvia then begins to find out and realize what I've been doing.
That's right… I've been trying to hide it from others. From Akyuu… and Luvia… Including Caster. But it seems that it failed. Even though Pneuma has told me not to reveal it. I want to talk to him but he is simply waiting for updates once I get the remaining two. But alas… it seems I do owe them an explanation, do I? I looked at Caster to see what she thought. And it seems she agreed with Luvia with a nod at me. So, I decided to let out a sigh and admit defeat on this one.
"Alright, Luvia… I suppose I do owe you an explanation. But what I'm about to explain is beyond your human comprehension. Shall we talk in the courtyard?" I asked her as she would allow that.
"We shall do so. August, Astolfo? Please prepare the tea." Luvia said to the two as one bows and the other salutes in a panic.
"Understood, milady." August replied.
"Y-You got it, Luvia-sama!" Astolfo stammered.
And so, we were on our chairs next to the table at the courtyard where Caster would continue to sit next to me. August and Astolfo had already poured the tea for us as she would drink it. I was hesitant but Caster joined in anyways.
"Now then… Explain yourself." Luvia continued with her calm and her serious expression. "What lies behind that magecraft of yours. At first, you can replicate the weapons of the respective Servants. From using Caster's staff to Rider's sword. Tell me… Who are you…?"
Who am I? Well. it's obvious. She knows my name but… I have to be honest here. Truthfully.
"I'll be honest with you… I don't know…" I continued. "Ever since I was gifted with this 'magecraft'... I guess this is more of a power."
"So it's True Magic? Surely you've reached the Root before, have you?" Luvia asked.
"What? No? I've never been to the Root. Those magus people like them are the ones who desire that thing." I continued. "But no. It's not even True Magic… Which is why I don't know of this myself. But to tell you the truth… I had no talent in magecraft to begin with."
"What do you mean by that, exactly?" Luvia asked.
"Well, My parents only taught me the basics of magecraft such as Reinforcement on one's body. The Hieda Family… are meant to be chroniclers. Not full on magus until my father pushed the idea to explore one. I promised him that I would pursue the path of the Magus and join the Clock Tower…" I explained while Luvia began to bring up.
"Until your parents were killed in a tsunami in the Tohoku region…" Luvia added.
"Correct. Right after I earned his Magic Crest… He promised me to learn more. But that was taken away. So I was left to improve magecraft on my own. But I failed so many times through trial and error." I continued as I went back on the topic. "But as for this power… This isn't my magecraft. Nor is it mine."
"If it isn't yours… Then what does this power belong to?" Luvia asked me as I looked at her eyes.
"Pneuma." I called out that name.
"Pneuma…?" Luvia said in confusion.
"I know I should reveal this to you but I tried…" I continued as I looked at my hand for a moment. "It was that moment I discovered this power when my hand touched Caster's shoulder and her… essence flowed into me. And somehow… somehow I get to replicate her staff. But it is also restoring the lost memories. So I guess this is god's power… or something. I just can't wrap my head around it."
"If this Pneuma gave you this power… Where is that god now, exactly?" Luvia said as she thinked.
"Pneuma remains dormant inside me. I just need two more essences to restore his memories until it is complete… Berserker and Saber respectively. I don't know why… but he's telling me to do it. And as for Pneuma… He… He said-" And just as I was about to speak more… my mind sinks into darkness…
Third Person POV
"To make myself whole." The voice of Yusei spoke… but it was different. His eyes are glowing again much to Caster and Luvia's surprise.
"Yousay…?" Luvia asked him.
"I am… I am not." The voice continued. "I am Pneuma. The one inhabiting this mortal vessel belongs to Yusei Hieda. Yet, I understand that you were aware of me and Yusei's plans to restore who I am."
"P-Pneuma, yes?" Caster asked him. "If you're residing within Yusei's body… Why do that?"
"I am weak." Pneuma continued. "Ever since I've long observed this world. My body could not remain here any longer. As well as my Genesis of Erudition."
"This 'Genesis of Erudition' you speak of… Is this True Magic?" Luvia asked.
"No." Pneuma replied. "It is considered as an 'Anomaly'. The Erudition allows me to create and manipulate reality to my will. Just as I created this world."
"U-Unbelievable… So you created this world just to observe? Does that mean you're our creator?" Luvia asked him.
"Yes. But I do not ask you to worship me. Those days such as this are far gone now. As for my vessel I've chosen… Yusei will help me complete my task." Pneuma said with a sigh as Caster spoke.
"Task?" Caster asked.
"Indeed. Once he gathers the two remaining essences… I will become whole and the memories of Yusei will cease to exist." Pneuma said as the magus slammed her table.
"T-That's ridiculous! You just can't get rid of Yousay like that!" Luvia exclaimed.
"Unfortunately… he may be aware of my plans but there is no way to change the course of this unavoidable fate. With Yusei gone from existence. This vessel will be mine. To live in the world of mortality while acting as the world's observer." Pneuma said as he started to sense within himself. "It seems my time is up. I will leave it to Yusei to complete those tasks."
"Wait, what about-" Luvia was interrupted when Pneuma closed his eyes… allowing for Yusei to return back to reality with his eyes reverted back to the way it is.
"B-Back here now… huh?" Yusei said to himself as he looked at Caster and Luvia.
First Person POV
"Yousay. You're back." Luvia said to me. "We… We talked to Pneuma…"
"So you did? I'm well aware of his plans. Of course, I chimed in on this discussion." I continued. "So now you know why I have a god in me. Once that's done… He'll take over my body, overwrite my memories as his own. And he'll walk among the people like you. It sounds scary I know…"
"But if you do intend to absorb the two remaining essences…" Caster asked as I looked at her.
"Worry not, Caster." I said to her with a thumbs up. "I'll try to confront him to find a way."
"So… that concludes this talk then, yes?" Luvia said as I nodded.
"Yeah. We're done here." I continued the moment I stood up. "Sorry if I didn't finish the tea, Luvia. There's something I want to do first."
"Very well… I won't pry." Luvia replied.
"Thank you. Caster, let's get going. I wanna take you somewhere first." I said to her as she would get off her chair the moment leave. Knowing that Luvia and Caster got first hand in meeting Pneuma. Hopefully they'll remember this reason.
Cemetery, Kyoto, Japan Afternoon - Clear Skies
And so, as hours passed by. I took Caster to the cemetery filled with stones of the names of the dead and offerings. Caster looked around the place to see how many stones were there but I told her to follow me. Then, we arrived where I would see them sometimes in order to remember them… And it's still here to this day.
"Yusei… is this?" Caster asked me as she looked at it.
"Yeah… Those are my parents… victims of the Tohoku incident. Naoshi and Haruka respectively. There were the ones who taught us the ways of magecraft. Of course, they love us for who we are. But… My father always saw my potential. So… perhaps you'd understand this. They're important to us, wanting us to become full-fledged magus. But for me? I guess that's long gone… just as Pneuma said." I said to her as I proceeded to clasp my hand together and pray. "Care to join me, Caster?"
"O-Oh! Yes, I'd like to." Caster said as she would join me and copied what I'm doing. And so we continued praying quietly as the wind lightly blows our faces. We both stopped and looked at it. So I should talk to them… one last time.
"Oto-san… Oka-san…" I said to them, looking at their graves. "I know it has been a long time, missing you two. Look at us now, we've grown up as magus as you always wanted us to be. But now… I've been dragged into a Holy Grail War. Been doing my best to survive out in the city filled with Servants. I just hope you're watching me from above… I'll keep fighting. End this Holy Grail War. And that's going to be my main goal. At first, I had a wish to bring you two back but… it felt wrong… disrespectful. The dead should pass on peacefully. Now that I know that the people wishing for the Grail for evil purposes are wrong… It is my duty to stop this and put an end to the Holy Grail War. I'm not sure if I'm going to come back alive on this one. But rest assured… I will live. I will fight. So… this is my final goodbye to you two. I hope you understand, I can't turn back now. I only got one shot at this. Wish me luck…"
And so, I finished talking to them. Standing up as I looked at Caster.
"You're finished, right?" Caster asked.
"I am." I continued. "Berserker and Saber are still out there, killing off their Masters would only help us secure our victory. But… I fear Manaka… I really do. Yet, I just don't know if I have the courage to fight them…"
Suddenly, out of nowhere… Caster hugged me tight as I looked at her, she then let me go and looked at me with a kind smile on her face.
"I understand how you feel. Just know that you're not alone. Me and Luvia. We're here for you no matter what. You're the only person who can win this if possible. While Berserker and Saber are the only two in the way… I fear that Manaka has Rogue Berserker as her additional Servant. So we need to be careful when approaching this. Do you have any plans in mind?" Caster asked as I nodded.
"Yeah. I want to focus on fighting Berserker and its Master. It's risky… but worth a shot. I assume you have any objections?" I asked.
"I do not, Yusei." Caster continued as she smiled. "Since we have a lot of time. What do you wish to do next, Yusei?"
"Hmm… Want to take a visit to Higashiyama? We can pay Rogue Caster a visit and ask her for a book if you're interested?" I asked her about it as she seemed willing.
"I'd love to, Yusei. Feels like a long time not seeing her again." Caster said as she would walk past me and turn around. "You coming?"
"Yeah. I am." I said to her as we decided to leave the cemetery and head our way to Higashiyama once again to meet with Rogue Caster… or Murasaki as her True Name. Haven't seen her in a short while but it should be nice to see what she's been up to.
Hieda Residence, Kyoto, Japan Nighttime - Clear Sky
Third Person POV
Meanwhile… as time passes by into the night. Akyuu Heida was seen all alone at the table for reasons unknown. Perhaps she was waiting for Yusei to arrive home but only assumed that he and Caster were out patrolling to search for the remaining Servants. Though, she did not speak as well. And the only thing she can do is to wait patiently. But that is until she heard something… coming outside of the house. She sat still… waited. Listened. And find out what's happening. Steps were coming closer and closer…
[STEP… STEP… STEP…]
[…STEP.]
The last sound of the step stops. As ten seconds passed, Akyuu did not move as she tried to remain still in hopes someone would go away… but it didn't…
[BOOSH!]
The sound of the wall and door being bashed open with brute force as it jumpscared Akyuu from the fear and covered herself from the blast of debris. And under that moonlight… the red-haired Berserker was there.
"There you are…" Berserker said as he had his spear rested on his shoulder. "My Lord needed you alive. Said that his plan is to lure your brother out. I'm not allowed to kill you because you're a girl… So it's best for you to sleep."
"G-Get away…" She pleaded before she shouts. "GET AW-"
[BAP! THUD!]
Akyuu was knocked out by Berserker in order to prevent hurting her. So he carried her with ease over the shoulder and proceeded to leave. Only to meet with the group of the Yakuza grunts who waited for him.
"Sir… s-should I leave the note for that certain Master who lives there?" The grunt asked.
"Huh? I don't give a shit about it. So do what you want and return back." Berserker said as he would proceed to leave the scene.
The grunt would rush in the house and leave the note on the table in hopes for Yusei to take notice. But that was strange… that the Bounded Field was within the range of the house created by Caster but it felt off… It was already broken through.
First Person POV
As soon as we got back to my home after Caster alerted me that her Bounded Field was passed through… We rushed back as soon as possible. And just as we reached our destination… our house's entrance was blown through…
"W-What… What's the meaning of this!?" I said in shock as I went in. "Akyuu! Are you unharmed? Akyuu!"
No signs of her… Where is she? Don't tell me…
"Yusei… look." Caster said to me as I looked at my Servant. I approached her the moment I saw the note she was holding… "It says… We have your little sister as our hostage. Come to the Tsujikura Clan Temple. So try to get her back…"
"Tsujikura…? Wait… I've heard of them! They're a dangerous Yakuza group! Don't tell me the Yakuza leader is a Master of Berserker, too! Damn it… at least that's the clue they left us like a crumb of bread!" I looked at Caster with a serious look on my face… I was also pissed. "Caster… We're going to that temple that took my sister… Let's take her back and kill Berserker's Master. I cannot accept this!"
"Worry not, Yusei. I can sense her… I know she's there. I can teleport you to that location. But I fear that we'll expect heavy resistance." Caster said to me as I said to her.
"Then do it. Teleport us there. Akyuu means everything to me. The only sister I need to protect!" I said to her as she summoned her staff.
"Very well, let us be off." Caster said as she used her staff to tap the ground as we fell into the water portal below us. And so… our rescue mission to save Akyuu begins.
Tsujikura Clan Temple, Kyoto, Japan Nighttime - Clear Sky
[FWOOSH!]
As we made it out of the water portal. Me and Caster have arrived at the Master of Berserker's domain… this temple as their base of operation. Berserker is there… I can sense it. Thanks to Caster who can detect the traces of Akyuu. I can tell she's somewhere within that castle. The gate is locked. Usually, people would try to climb over it and sneak in. but since I'm in a bad mood… We might as well go for a brute option…
"Caster, break the gate open." I commanded her as she nodded. She uses her staff to conjure up a large ball of water. She pointed her staff in the direction as the orb of water hurled itself into it…
[BOOSH!]
The gate was blasted open as it fell on the ground. Of course, we decided to step inside their territory. That is until we sensed something as armed men of the yakuza clan rushed in to intervene. They were wielding Katanas and firearms at their disposal. Thus, they have us surrounded.
"Glad to see you here. My Lord expected you to arrive at his temple." The voice spoke as we saw of what's in front of us… That red hair wielding a spear… That must be Berserker. The yakuza members stand out of their way to grace his presence.
"Where is Akyuu…" I demanded.
"Your little sis is in that temple. But I ain't letting you shits go through. Besides, I've been waiting for day and night to finally let it happen. I'll be killing you two and obtain the Grail for my Lord." Berserker then pointed his spear at us as we stood ready…
"It appears we might as well fight and push through this, Yusei. Are you ready?" Caster asked me as I stood ready.
"I am…" I replied…
[FWOOSH! CLING!]
Suddenly, someone passed through us as Berserker reacted by blocking the incoming direct attack.
"What the!? You…! You got a lot of guts of coming back here, Rogue Saber! I'll fucking kill you first before I get through them!" Berserker spat with a smirk as the person who passed through us whose name was Rogue Saber… he wore a haori with the colors of blue and white. It looks familiar… he even has gray long messy hair, too. Just who is he?
"Hey, brats! Go on already!" Rogue Saber shouted as he looked back at us. "I'll deal with that brute on my own."
"Thanks… whoever you are." I said to him as we were about to head inside.
"Call me Hajime Saito. Simple as that… so get going!" Hajime said to us as we both nodded. So we ran past them and made our way in as the Yakuza men tried to get in our way, of course. Caster had to push them away with her water.
Third Person POV
"Clever asshole…" Berserker spat. "I'll kill you quickly before they can get to my boss!"
"You're welcome to try. But I won't be killed that easily with that attitude of yours." Hajime responded with a snarky tone as it ticked Berserker off.
"I'll fucking kill you…" Berserker threatened as the two would prepare to clash each other once more until…
[KRA-KOOM!]
The sound of a heavy impact crashes the ground as the smoke billows away… Rogue Berserker suddenly appeared on the scene after sensing the battle there as it roared violently, capturing their attention.
"Well now… it seems we've got ourselves an unwanted visitor." Hajime continued. "Why not hold off our hostility and get rid of this fellow, huh?"
"Tch. Whatever, after that. You're dead." Berserker replied as the two along with the yakuza grunts would prepare themselves for a bloody worse of a time.
First Person POV
[BASH!]
I busted the door open after we ran a long hallway to search for Akyuu… and there she was with her hands tied behind her back, kneeling on the floor. However, she was near that guy sitting on his throne-like chair… a gruff-looking man wearing a traditional robe as he was seen smoking a cigarette. Plus, he was revealing his Command Seal on his hand… so he is the Master of Berserker.
"And so you've arrived. Come to get your dear sister back, Yusei Hieda?" The Master spoke as I clenched my hand in anger.
"How the hell do you even know us…" I asked.
"Simple. Had my men spy on you a few days ago. Learning your names was simple enough. But finding out that you're a Master really proves a point. So I took advantage of this while you were gone. And now here we are…" The Master continued. "The names Yutaka. Something you'll understand from me."
"Just get to the point, damn it… Give her back…" I said to him with a snarl.
"Whoa there, kid. Otherwise, I'd be inclined to kill her on the spot if you come any closer." Yutaka threatened as this left me to do nothing. "Now then, let's talk…"
"What is there to talk…" I asked the yakuza leader…
"Saber and her little Master… She proves to be extremely difficult. And in my way of achieving my goal. Little birdy told me that she has a Rogue Servant at her side. And I can only assume that it's there already. But Saber? That Servant is proven to be much more troublesome than I expect. Killed half of my men when they tried to intervene." Yutaka continued as he stood up. "Which is why I ask for your cooperation. Join my clan-"
"No." I interjected. "Fuck you. And fuck that… You took my sister hostage. And I'll never let a goddamn slime like you run free."
"Hmph. As expected. What are you gonna do? You can't do anything." Yutaka said.
"Oh I can." I said to him as I proceeded to conjure Assassin's weapons on my hand, swinging it to create a whip as it wrapped around Akyuu, pulling the blade back. I managed to catch her as my weapons disappeared.
"What…!?" Yutaka said in confusion and anger. I handed Akyuu to Caster.
"Caster… Take her somewhere safe. You know what I'm talking about." I said to her as she nodded.
"Don't worry, she's in safe hands with me. Just don't get yourself killed, Yusei." Caster said as she used a water portal to take Akyuu with her when carried my sister and went inside. The portal then closed as I looked back at Yutaka.
"Motherfucker…" Yutaka said in seething anger. "Never would I think that you have some trick up your sleeve…"
"Of course, I do. I'll kill you right here and now. You're just in my way in stopping the war." I said to him the moment I readied myself. He then proceeds to take off his robes to reveal his half-naked body. He is definitely a yakuza… as he lives and breathes. He proceeded to bring out his katana and unsheathed it.
"Stopping the war? You? Ahahahaha!" Yutaka laughed. "You must be joking! Do you not have a wish!?"
"I don't." I continued. "I refuse to let Kyoto be destroyed when you're around. So shut up and fight."
"Straight to the point… I like you…" Yutaka said as he held his katana in his combat stance. "NOW DIE LIKE A FUCKING SHITSTAIN YOU ARE!"
He then charged at me as I proceeded to conjure Caster's staff and blade in order to dodge the incoming swing. I used my staff to enhance the blade with water as I swung it, shooting out a projectile as he blocked it. So, we proceeded to exchange blows from the blades as his fighting style looked very fierce. Like a damn samurai. So I need to act fast.
[SWOOSH!]
He swung again. But I jumped over him with my staff in hand. I begin to conjure orbs of water, pointing the staff at him. It flew towards Yutaka like a bullet but it somehow hit him. Tons of cuts on his chest but his swings of his katana dis deflect them away. This guy… does he even use magecraft? Just what is he thinking? The moment I land on the floor on two feet…
[CLANG!]
I had to use the sword to block the overhead attack which was on my left hand. It's strange that I can fight in a current state like this because of this bleeding effect. But using a staff is proven useful. But not too great in fighting head on. So I need to change my playstyle. I proceeded to kick him away, switching from my staff and blade into Rider's katana as I swung my blade at him.
[TWANG! KRRRRRR!]
The blades collided as he was trying to push it forward at me as I struggled. He is a ruthless man who refuses to back down. But I, too, refuse to back down. Manaka and Saber stand in my way and I will not stop until the Grail is destroyed. I'm doing this for Tatsumi… and for the city of Kyoto. I kept my distance from him in order to plan ahead and think on how to approach this battle. I have no interest in talking to him. So killing him would be the only option. But this gave me an idea… I decided to conjure Assassin's black whip blade on my left hand as I swung it, extending itself to wrap around his leg as he took notice.
"GET OVER HERE!" I shouted, pulling his leg forcefully but he wouldn't move or budge. Instead of pulling him, he was unimpressed as he decided to pull his leg behind as I ended up propelling towards him. I had to ready myself to defend with my blade the moment he tried to do a vertical swing. I had to block it but…
[BAP!]
He kicked me in the stomach as I rolled on the floor with my weapons disappearing in the process.
"How pathetic… Is that ALL you can muster?" Yutaka continued. "No matter how many magic tricks you do… you'll never beat me."
"I know…" I said as I struggled to get up with my own two feet. "No matter how many times you kick me down… I'll always… get back up. And kick your ass!"
"Hmph. A foolish boast." Yutaka said until we heard the footsteps getting closer. "It seems you're too late."
[BOOSH!]
The door and wall was busted open filled with debris as I managed to dodge from the side out of harm's way. And just as we saw… the body of Rogue Berserker all bruised up with nasty cuts all over as it was glowing motes of light around him. And just like that… it finally fades. Not only that… Berserker stood there next to Yutaka.
"You're right on time, Berserker." Yutaka said. "This kid managed to retrieve his sister from us."
"Hah! So what now, Master? I managed to wound Rogue Saber for now. Shall I deal with this squirt?" Berserker asked.
"Go ahead. I don't care." Yutaka said as Berserker would approach me, grabbing my neck and lifting me. Struggling to breathe as I can feel the pressure.
"Be grateful, kid. You deserve a nice, slow death since my Lord wanted it. There's no point of you resisting. Give up." Berserker said in such a cold, threatening tone. I continue to struggle as much as I can. With my hand on his arm. He was unaware of what's next.
"You can try…" I said. "But I've already won…!"
"…What?" Berserker said until something suddenly happened. "The fuck!?"
He dropped me the moment Berserker stood back and tried to figure out of what's going on. The red ominous aura comes out and begins to flow into me. Just as I wanted it to happen…
[BA-THUMP!]
"G-GEH! GAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH!" But this time. I wasn't able to resist it any longer as the pain in my head began to feel this immense pain. Unlike the other auras I've gathered. This one was the most violent… And then suddenly… I begin to see the vision of the memories.
And this time… It wasn't pleasant… A vision shows Kyoto basked in flames. A city in utter ruin. Then it shows Manaka and Saber who had already reached the Grail and obtained their wish. And then… blackness…
My eyes open after dealing with the head pain. I got up and stood on my two feet after what happened. Was it the future? Is Pneuma warning me of this happening? Either way… seeing Kyoto like this wasn't the greatest. But…
"One down… one more to go…" I said to myself.
"You… Just what are you, exactly…?" Yutaka asked.
"Just a magus…" I replied.
"Lying or not. My gut tell me that you're a dangerous fuck. You'll need to die right here, right now." Yutaka said as he was about to use his Command Seal…
[SLICE! PSSSSSSH!]
Yutaka was decapitated as Berserker noticed. The body falls on the floor as if it was the work of Rogue Saber… Hajime Saito of the Shinsengumi. He had arrived to end the fight just as immediately… and saved me time to keep on living.
"Damn you… Always killing my Lord in the end, huh?" Berserker said as his body began to glow in motes of light. "Seems I've got no point in fighting anymore now that'd happen."
"Of course, I hate wasting time but I did what had to be done. You've already lost in the end. Don't forget that." Rogue Saber said as Berserker laughed.
"I already know that, damn it!" Berserker continued as he looked at me. "Keep fighting, kid. Ya got one more to face, y'know?"
I nodded. Berserker finally disappears, now eliminated from the war. And so, Rogue Saber sheathed his katana and walked past me.
"No need to thank me. Just do what you gotta do." Rogue Saber said to me the moment he went into his Spirit Form and disappeared. And now, I'm left alone…
"Yusei, are you there?" The voice of Caster spoke in my mind.
"I'm… I'm here." I continued. "Berserker is eliminated. And took his essence, too. One more stands in our way."
"Saber…" Caster said. "Akyuu is safe back at Luvia's house. And apparently… Asano and Ruler came to visit us. And you're needed here. Shall I teleport you?"
"Do it…" I said to her as she would do it anyways. A water portal opens in front of me the moment I walk inside it as the portal closes…
Edelfelt Residence, Kyoto, Japan Midnight - Clear Sky
As I stepped out from the portal… I was met with Akyuu running towards me as she hugged me. I hugged her back knowing that she is safe now.
"B-Brother… I… I thought you were dead…" Akyuu cried as I had to comfort her.
"Don't worry, Akyuu… I'm still alive and well. How is Luvia taking care of you?" I asked my sister the moment she let go.
"Luvia treated me well, Brother." Akyuu continued. "But look at you… You're hurt!"
"Don't worry… It'll be fine. Tomorrow will make myself better but… Can you head to bed and sleep first?" I said as I looked at Ruler and Asano. "There is something I need to have a conversation with."
"O-Okay…" Akyuu said as she would do so.
"Caster." I said to my Servant as she stood next to me the moment we met the current Overseer of the war… Jeanne d'Arc herself. "So, you heard the news, did you?"
"I have. That Berserker's Master is slain. That only leaves the two of you. Caster and Saber. Though, I suppose a congratulation on your survival is in order-" I interrupted her as I wanted to tell her something. Remembering our encounter with Manaka and her plans.
"No need. However, I do need to tell you this, Ruler." I continued. "Saber's Master is Manaka Sajyou. If she were to win the Holy Grail War. Her wish is simple: To summon a Beast and bring forth an armageddon. Basically, to destroy the world."
"W-What…?" Ruler said in confusion as Asano looked at her. She begins to feel some sort of a small headache as she places her left hand to her head for a moment until it stops. "S-Sorry… This Manaka you talked about intends to summon a Beast? But why make a wish like that?"
"Apparently… I fear that she has no care in humanity. She wants it all destroyed… even herself." I said to the saint as Asano would begin to feel uncomfortable after hearing what I said.
"R-Ruler… I… I don't like it at all…" Asano said with fear.
"Do not worry, Master…" Ruler said as she looked back at me. "Yusei… Whatever you said might be true. If Manaka intends to use her wish to end the world… Then this is my sole duty to stop her."
"Huh… Here I thought you'd refuse to help us and let Manaka win to get what she wants." I asked.
"Usually, I would leave it to the participants to get their desired wish. But a wish that is dark and cruel… I don't like it at all. I will search out Manaka and Saber and confront them to ensure that will never happen." Ruler said as she placed her hand to her chest.
"And what if she refuses, then?" Caster asked her.
"Then I have no other choice but to eliminate her for the sake of the Holy Grail's will. But Yusei, why tell me this now?" Ruler asked me about it. Of course, I should explain to her my reason.
"Well, it's because I have no particular wish. To stop Manaka… I have to destroy the Grail." I explained to her how this surprised her.
"W-Why, though!" Ruler demanded. "Why go through such lengths to destroy the Grail!? It will consider you unworthy if you destroy it!"
"Think about it, Ruler." I said. "Manaka is already one step ahead of us. Which is why I have a reason to destroy it. I refuse… and cannot allow her to summon a Beast to destroy Kyoto. The city's been my home for years the moment I was born. But if she succeeds, then so be it. I'd rather die than listen to your pleas."
Alright, I think I was a bit stubborn on my part. But still, she needs to understand. Destroying the grail is the only option. Luvia doesn't mind it. Actually, she agreed to my plans. Caster has no wish, either. And my mind is made up. So, Ruler sighs.
"Truly, you know no bounds. Regardless, if this is your goal to achieve… then I will not stop you. And I'll see this through to the end if you manage to succeed or not." Ruler then turns around. "Master, it is time we leave."
"Y-Yes, Ruler!" Asano nodded shyly as she would turn around to look at me. "G-Good luck…"
With the two leaving Luvia's home. I looked at her.
"You've made up your mind, right?" Luvia asked me. Approaching her with my hands on her shoulder with me nodding.
"Yeah. I am." I said. "I just need a lot more time to prepare for another night. I'm… quite nervous… and afraid. Luvia… I'm actually… very afraid…"
My mind begins to become vulnerable the moment I say it. This pain I've accumulated throughout this journey. My hands were trembling. This fear I've sensed. Do I even have the courage to take her on? What if my goals fail and I die? It's just me and Caster but… It just won't be enough… Then, Luvia approached and held my hand and looked at me.
"Don't be, Yousay. You've come this far. I mean… Look at you now. You've been the only person to survive against all odds. Buuuut… I do have some ideas in mind." Luvia continued with a smile on her face. "How about you go on a date with me?"
I was flustered.
"D-Date…?" I asked her.
"Of course. A date. Do I need to say more?" Luvia said as my fears subsided. I start to walk back once and try to regain my composure.
"L-Luvia… this is… I… I never had… a date before in my life. Nor I've gotten uhh… a girlfriend." I had a hard time speaking about this but it's true… I never talked to a girl out on a date. Ever.
"Oh? Then that makes you a virgin, Yousay.~" Luvia smirked as I blushed again.
"V-Virgin!?" I calmed down and took a deep breath in defeat. "I guess you're right… If you want to ask me out on a date… then sure."
"Then it's settled! We'll start having some fun tomorrow. But on one condition." Luvia continued. "The Hieda Family are to be part of the Edelfelt Family. Of course, you'll align with the Democratic Faction. Surely it's a deal you can't refuse, yes?"
"B-Brother! We mustn't join the Edelfelts!" Akyuu interjected. "This… This is too much to comprehend! Think about our future!"
"This is our future, Akyuu." I said to my sister. "The Hieda Family won't keep up and soon… we'll be forgotten. I know this is surprising but we all need to move forward."
"Don't worry. You'll still keep your Hieda name intact. The deal only allows the soon-to-be-forgotten family to be part of the Edelfelts. Of course, my family will ensure to provide you and Yousay our money. Why? Because we're rich, of course!~ Ohohohoho!~" Luvia laughs with pride as I sweatdrop… There she goes again.
But I want to be real here… This… this isn't a bad deal. My heart and mind tells me one thing and one thing only… I want to be with Luvia. I need to. She's… She's my light. The one who helped and look out for me. From the first time I met her. She would be enemies of us. But throughout the journey… We ended up becoming allies… friends to be exact. And now, I'm dating her for the very first time. Talk about crazy… But still, she's waiting on my decision… I know what I must do…
"I accept your conditions. Perhaps when the war is over…" Just as I was about to ask her further…
"No need, we'll discuss after you destroy the Grail, Yousay. But I'm glad that you made a wise decision there. The process of allowing you two to join our family will take… a long time. For now, get some rest. Starting tomorrow, our first date will begin. So I've already picked out some of the places that interest me. Surely you don't mind, right?~" Luvia said as I sighed.
"Sure, I wouldn't mind. Would be surprising if you have your own clothing business here in Kyoto." I said to her with a thought.
"What are you talking about? Of course I established that there a few months back. My clothing line always has the best style for all women out there." Luvia continued. "As for me, I should sleep. Do have a good rest. August, please take his sister to her new room."
"As you command, Milady. Come, Akyuu. Your guest room awaits." August said as he would lead Akyuu to her new room to sleep. Speaking of which… She is right. I feel damn tired because of all this.
"Luvia is right about it. You do need sleep." Caster said to remind me.
"I know. What about you? Heading to the library if this house has one?" I asked my Servant.
"Fortunately, it does. I'll be spending my time there while you're off to bed. Have a good night, alright?" Caster said to me kindly as I nodded.
"Thank you, Caster." I said to her back as I proceeded to head upstairs and find this other guest room there.
And just as I did, I proceeded to flop on the bed almost instantly after that. And now… my mind sinks away… hoping a fresh day would be nice tomorrow. With my first date with Luvia happening, I can't afford to embarrass myself if I want to have a relaxed day.
[TO BE CONTINUED…]
Author's Notes: Hello all, thank you for reading this chapter. I'll keep this short as possible here. He just needs one more to gather. And that is Saber. Of course, I cannot spoil any further but the next chapter will not have action combat or any of those. It'll be a full on relaxation chapter where Yusei is dating Luvia for the first time. So yeah, look forward to that. Until then, peace out.