In the depths of the enchanted forest somewhere in the Kanto region, Monarch Ash and his trusty companion Pikachu were exploring ancient ruins that were rumored to hold mystical secrets. They had been on many adventures together, but this one felt different. As they cautiously navigated through the overgrown labyrinth of stone, Ash couldn't shake the feeling that something extraordinary was about to happen.
"Wow, Pikachu, can you feel that? It's like there's magic in the air," Ash whispered, his eyes wide with excitement.
Pikachu nodded in agreement, its ears perking up as they ventured deeper into the heart of the ruins. Suddenly, a shimmering rune-covered pedestal caught Ash's attention. Without hesitation, he approached it, his curiosity piqued.
"What do you think this is, Pikachu?" Ash asked, examining the intricate carvings.
Before Pikachu could respond, Ash accidentally brushed against the pedestal, causing a surge of energy to ripple through the air. The runes glowed brightly, and a whirlwind of light engulfed them both. In a flash of blinding radiance, a figure materialized before them—an armored knight with an imposing presence.
The knight, clad in red and silver armor and wielding a mysterious sword, stood before Ash and Pikachu with a commanding aura. She regarded them both with a mix of curiosity and readiness, her expression stern.
"I am Mordred, Knight of Treachery and Saber-class Servant," the knight announced, eyeing Ash intently. "Are you my Master?"
Ash blinked in confusion, unsure of what he was witnessing. "Um, Master? Pikachu, did we just summon a knight?"
Pikachu's cheeks sparked with concern as it looked up at Ash, equally baffled by the turn of events.
Mordred's gaze hardened. "Do not toy with me, Master. If you have summoned me, then you must possess the power to command me."
Ash scratched his head, trying to make sense of the situation. "I'm sorry, but I think there's been a mistake. I don't know anything about being a Master or commanding knights."
Mordred's expression softened slightly, though skepticism still lingered in her eyes. "You... you truly have no knowledge of the Holy Grail War? No understanding of magecraft?"
Ash shook his head, feeling increasingly out of his depth. "I'm just a Pokémon trainer. I've never heard of this Grail War thing."
Pikachu nodded emphatically, squeaking in agreement.
Mordred's demeanor shifted, a mixture of disappointment and resignation crossing her face. "Very well. It seems fate has played a cruel joke on me. To be summoned by one who knows nothing of the Grail War... Perhaps this is my penance."
Despite the confusion, Ash couldn't help but feel sympathy for the knight. "I'm sorry, Mordred. I really don't know what's going on."
Mordred sighed, her armor clinking softly as she relaxed her stance. "Very well. If you are not my Master, then I shall await further instructions. But be warned, I will not tolerate weakness."
Ash exchanged a bewildered glance with Pikachu. "I guess we have a new friend, Pikachu. Even if we're not sure what's happening."
Pikachu nodded, offering a reassuring squeak.
As they continued their exploration of the ancient ruins, the dynamic between Ash, Pikachu, and Mordred, began to evolve. Mordred, though initially skeptical and disheartened by Ash's lack of knowledge regarding the Holy Grail War and magecraft, found herself intrigued by the sincerity and determination radiating from the young Pokémon trainer.
"So, Mordred," Ash began tentatively, breaking the silence that had settled among them, "you mentioned something about a Holy Grail War. Can you tell us more about it?"
Mordred regarded Ash with a mix of surprise and hesitation. She hadn't anticipated engaging in conversation about the complexities of her world with someone so seemingly disconnected from it.
"The Holy Grail War is a ritualistic battle," Mordred explained, her tone grave and purposeful. "Mages and heroic spirits, like myself, are summoned to participate in a quest for the Holy Grail—a legendary artifact said to grant any wish to its possessor."
Ash's eyes widened in fascination. "That sounds incredible! But why would someone like you be summoned here, to our world?"
Mordred's expression darkened slightly. "The summoning ritual is unpredictable. It seems I was brought here by accident, drawn to your presence."
Pikachu chimed in, its ears twitching with curiosity. "Pika... Pikachu?"
Mordred turned her attention to the electric Pokémon, observing it with a mix of interest and skepticism. "Your companion seems... unusual. What manner of creature is it?"
"This is Pikachu, my partner in all my adventures," Ash replied proudly. "We've faced many challenges together."
Mordred nodded, though her focus quickly returned to their surroundings. "We should remain vigilant. These ruins hold ancient magic, and we do not know what dangers may lie ahead."
As they ventured deeper into the labyrinthine ruins, Ash couldn't shake the feeling that their encounter with Mordred was more than just happenstance. Despite her initial standoffish demeanor, he sensed a shared sense of purpose—one that transcended the boundaries of their respective worlds.
"Mordred," Ash called out, drawing the knight's attention once more, "if you're here because of a mistake, does that mean you're stuck here?"
Mordred paused, her gaze distant for a moment before returning to Ash. "I am bound to the one who summons me, typically a mage with the ability to command and sustain a Servant. However, it appears circumstances have diverged from the norm."
A sense of determination flickered in Ash's eyes. "Well, even if I'm not your Master, I promise we'll do our best to help you. Maybe we can find a way to send you back home."
Mordred regarded Ash with a newfound respect, a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Very well, Mast-I mean...Ash. I shall accept your offer, for now."
As they pressed on through the ruins, navigating through forgotten chambers and deciphering cryptic runes, Ash couldn't help but wonder about the mysterious world of magecraft and heroic spirits that Mordred hailed from. The thought of a Holy Grail capable of granting any wish was tantalizing yet daunting.
"Pikachu," Ash whispered, glancing over at his steadfast companion, "this is turning out to be quite an adventure, isn't it?"
Pikachu squeaked in agreement.
As Ash, Pikachu, and Mordred delved deeper into the ruins, the atmosphere grew tense. Shadows danced ominously along the ancient stone walls, and an unsettling presence seemed to linger in the air. Suddenly, a figure emerged from the darkness—a woman in dark armor with short-cut white-blond hair and a piercing yellow gaze.
"Ah, Mordred," the woman sneered, her voice dripping with malice. "I see you've found yourself in the company of weaklings. How fitting for the likes of you."
Mordred's eyes narrowed, her grip tightening on her sword. "Jeanne Alter," she replied coolly. "What brings you to these ruins?"
Jeanne Alter chuckled darkly, her eyes fixated on Ash and Pikachu. "I'm here to rid the world of nuisances like you. And perhaps I'll take that pathetic excuse for a Master as my pet once I'm done with you, Mordred."
Ash's heart raced as he watched the tense exchange between the two Servants. He could feel the animosity radiating from Jeanne Alter, and he instinctively moved closer to Mordred, despite her warnings to stay back.
"Mordred, are you sure you don't need our help?" Ash asked, concern etched across his face.
Mordred glanced briefly at Ash, a hint of irritation flashing in her eyes. "Stay back, Mast-Ash. This is my fight."
Pikachu's cheeks sparked with determination as it stood by Ash's side, ready to defend their newfound ally.
Jeanne Alter unsheathed her sword, her yellow eyes locked onto Mordred. "You always were a reckless fool, Mordred. It's time you learned your place."
With a swift motion, Jeanne Alter lunged forward, her blade gleaming in the dim light. Mordred met her opponent head-on, the clash of steel echoing through the ancient chamber.
As Ash watched the intense battle unfold, he couldn't help but feel a surge of admiration for Mordred's bravery and skill. Despite the odds stacked against her, she fought with unwavering determination, each strike calculated and precise.
"Go, Mordred!" Ash cheered, his voice filled with encouragement.
Mordred shot him a brief glance, a mixture of annoyance and gratitude flickering in her eyes. "I don't need your cheers, but thanks."
Meanwhile, Pikachu launched a volley of Thunderbolts towards Jeanne Alter, trying to create an opening for Mordred. The dark knight deftly dodged the electric attacks, her focus still fixed on her primary adversary.
Jeanne Alter smirked as she parried Mordred's strikes effortlessly. "Is this the best you can do, Mordred? I expected more from the infamous Knight of Treachery."
Mordred gritted her teeth, her resolve unyielding. "You talk too much, Alter!"
The clash intensified, the combatants locked in a fierce exchange of blows. Ash could feel the tension in the air, each moment fraught with uncertainty. He desperately wanted to help Mordred, but he also trusted in her abilities.
Finally, Mordred seized an opportunity, delivering a decisive strike that sent Jeanne Alter staggering back. With a defiant roar, Mordred pressed her advantage, driving her opponent back with relentless ferocity.
"You're finished, Alter!" Mordred declared, her voice echoing triumphantly.
Jeanne Alter scowled, her gaze burning with resentment. "This isn't over, Mordred. I'll have my revenge."
With a sudden burst of dark energy, Jeanne Alter vanished into the shadows, leaving behind an air of tension and uncertainty.
Mordred lowered her sword, her chest heaving with exertion. She glanced over at Ash and Pikachu, a rare hint of gratitude in her eyes.
"Looks like she won't be bothering us for now," Mordred remarked, her tone gruff yet appreciative.
Ash approached cautiously, a mixture of relief and admiration washing over him. "That was amazing, Mordred! You're really something."
Mordred waved him off dismissively. "Save your praise. We've wasted enough time here. Let's press on."
As they pressed on through the mysterious ruins, Ash couldn't shake the worry that gnawed at his thoughts. Mordred, usually composed and resolute, now showed signs of unease and restlessness. Her usually steady demeanor was replaced by subtle fidgeting and occasional glances over her shoulder.
"Mordred, are you okay?" Ash ventured, his voice laced with genuine concern.
Mordred paused, her eyes darting around the dimly lit corridor. "I'm fine, Mast-Ash. Just stay alert. We may encounter more threats."
Pikachu nudged Ash, its expression mirroring his concern. Ash couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt. He had unwittingly dragged Mordred into a world she didn't belong to, and now she was shouldering the burden of protecting him and Pikachu.
"I'm sorry, Mordred," Ash began earnestly. "I didn't mean for any of this to happen. I wish there was something I could do to help."
Mordred's stern facade softened slightly. "You don't need to apologize, Mast-Ash. This is my duty as a knight. But I appreciate your concern."
Despite her attempt to reassure him, Ash could sense Mordred's underlying apprehension. The weight of their predicament seemed to bear down on her shoulders, and Ash couldn't stand seeing her struggle alone.
As they navigated deeper into the ruins, the atmosphere grew increasingly foreboding. Ancient carvings adorned the walls, depicting scenes of battles and rituals long forgotten. The air itself felt heavy with the lingering energies of bygone eras.
Suddenly, a low rumble echoed through the corridor, causing both Ash and Mordred to tense. Pikachu's ears twitched nervously as it scanned their surroundings.
Mordred drew her sword, her eyes narrowing with determination. "Be on your guard," she warned, her voice tinged with urgency.
Before Ash could respond, a colossal shadow loomed ahead—a towering figure wreathed in shadows and malevolent energy. The ground trembled beneath its weight as it lumbered into view—a golem, awakened from its slumber by their intrusion.
Mordred's grip tightened on her sword, her resolve steeling. "Stand back, Ash. I'll handle this."
Ash hesitated, torn between trusting Mordred's capabilities and his own desire to help. He couldn't bear the thought of standing idly by while Mordred faced yet another threat alone.
"Mordred, let us fight together," Ash implored, his voice tinged with determination. "We can do this."
Mordred regarded him with surprise, her expression softening slightly. "Very well, but stay close and follow my lead."
With a nod of agreement, Ash and Pikachu positioned themselves beside Mordred, ready to confront the towering golem. As the golem roared, sending tremors through the ancient chamber, Mordred charged forward with a fierce battle cry.
The clash was intense—Mordred's swordsmanship complemented by Pikachu's lightning-fast strikes. Ash did his best to assist, providing support and encouragement whenever he could.
Despite their combined efforts, the golem proved to be a formidable opponent. Its rocky exterior withstood their attacks, and its massive fists threatened to crush them with each swing.
Ash stole a glance at Mordred, her face etched with determination and a hint of desperation. He knew she was pushing herself to her limits to protect them.
"Mordred, don't overexert yourself," Ash called out, his voice filled with concern.
Mordred shot him a fleeting glance, a mixture of frustration and gratitude in her eyes. "I'll manage, Ash. Focus on the battle."
Together, they fought with unwavering resolve, their bond strengthening with each strike and dodge. Despite the odds, Ash refused to give up. He trusted in Mordred's strength and believed in their ability to overcome any obstacle.
As the battle raged on, Ash couldn't help but marvel at Mordred's unwavering courage and skill. She fought not only for duty but also for the newfound companionship she had discovered in Ash and Pikachu.
Once Mordred finally cut down the shadow golem, Mordred winced in pain, collapsing into Ash's arms. The sudden attack from Jeanne Alter left Ash reeling with shock and fear. He held onto Mordred tightly, feeling her fading presence slipping away.
"Mordred, no!" Ash cried out, his voice filled with desperation.
Mordred managed a weak smile despite her pain, her gaze fixed on Ash. "Thank you for putting up with me, Ash. You were... a decent Master."
Ash shook his head vehemently, his heart aching. "I'm sorry, Mordred. I didn't want this. Please don't go."
Mordred chuckled softly, the sound bittersweet. "Always so whiny, aren't you? Perhaps in another life, we could have been... friends."
Meanwhile, Jeanne Alter gloated cruelly, reveling in Mordred's apparent defeat. "How pathetic, Mordred. Depending on a weak human like him was your downfall."
Mordred's eyes flashed with defiance despite her fading form. "You know nothing, Alter. He... he had my back. That's more than you'll ever understand."
Summoning all her remaining strength, Mordred activated her Noble Phantasm—a dazzling display of energy gathering around her sword. Jeanne Alter attempted to evade, but it was too late.
With a resolute cry, Mordred unleashed her final strike, the force of her attack overwhelming Jeanne Alter. The Dragon Witch staggered back, unable to withstand the onslaught.
As the dust settled, Mordred stood, her body wavering as she dropped her sword. She looked at Ash one last time, a faint smile gracing her lips.
"Ash... you are my Master," Mordred declared softly, her voice filled with sincerity.
Ash's eyes widened, his heart heavy with emotion. "Mordred..."
Before he could say more, Mordred vanished, leaving behind only the echo of her parting words. Ash stood there, stunned and grieving, clutching the spot where Mordred had once been.
Pikachu nuzzled against Ash, offering silent comfort as they both processed what had just transpired. Jeanne Alter, now subdued and defeated, watched in silence, a mix of surprise and begrudging respect in her eyes before she too faded just like Mordred.
Slowly, Ash rose to his feet, his gaze lingering on the spot where Mordred had stood. Though she was gone, her words echoed in his mind—a reminder of the brief but profound connection they had shared.
"Hope we meet again, Mordred..."
Damn...now I want to ship Ash and Mordred now after this...