Author's note: The next updated chapter was supposed to be Arcane Craftsman. That is the plan! But the opening parts of the chapter sucked absolute balls. It wasn't bland, just sucked and didn't account for future plotlines. Goes to show you can never be overconfident even in your own stories. Back to my many pages of plot designs I've neglected to freshen up on.

The will is strong the elements are there, just was becoming long-winded. Not having three chapters of nothing being done, thank you. I remember reading some gamer stories where the grind for levelling up occurred for, quite literally, five chapters with nothing being done but gaining skills. I can easily do better, so it went back into the cycle so I can rework some things. Sorry for the delay folks! For now, enjoy the fifth chapter of Fate/Clover.

NO BETA…they all left me. So, we die like MEN! (and others of unspecified genders and identities that would be too numerous to list individually to be meme-worthy.)

Fate/Clover Chapter 5: Reckoning.

Archer adjusted his vest and dress shirt, the steel grey shirt combined with the charcoal black vest matched well, if a little dull. Archer had little care for how he looked but intellectually he knew that looking good was important. People's first impressions were formed entirely on appearance and mannerisms, long before a word was spoken. This individual was important to Mereoleona so Archer would at least put the effort.

But unlike her parents, Acier would receive no extra effort on his part. The room that Archer had to himself was sparse but clean. Comfortable even. He had to admit, the bed was by far the best part. It was unusually comfortable, almost difficult to get out of.

"You look well and ready sir."

"Thank you."

Archer gave a small smile at Dredrick, the butler that Mereoleona's family assigned to him. It was surreal to actually have someone like that, but Archer adapted quickly. He rarely used Dredrick's services though. Something that Dredrick pointed out quite often.

"I am here at your disposal sir."

"I appreciate it" said Archer "but I am capable of doing things on my own."

"Oh, that I am quite aware. Our cook is supposedly after the recipe for that dessert you showed her this morning. Absolutely took her heart, she was quite excited to share it with her wife."

Archer grinned and turned to Dredrick.

"How long do you think it will take for Mereoleona to realize?"

"Oh, that her jealousy is misplaced. Knowing how insightful the lady is…quite a while."

Archer chuckled a bit.

"You're quite honest for a butler, Dredrick."

"I am valued by the family precisely for my insights and skills sir. Mereoleona is, in simple terms, an outright monster. However, sleuthing is not her strong suit. She doesn't tend to notice those that are weaker than her."

One of her more negative traits, but Archer didn't care much for people nowadays either. He wasn't one to judge and neither was Dredrick judging by his tone.

"She's not the only one. You'll find that the Vermillion family cares little for social status as a whole. They are more concerned with practical things, like money and power. As such their conduct to people are generally the same, regardless of status."

"Your idiot king must be quite the annoyance than, considering his policies?"

Dredrick smirked.

"Careful sir, I'm beginning to see why Mereoleona is quite attached to you."

Archer tightened his tie and vest, ensuring that everything was in place. Than, using a little trick with mana that he picked up, he slicked his hair back. The white hairs stayed in place with no assistance.

"Anything I should be aware of. Acier, the place we are going to, anything of the like?"

Dredrick hummed in though, his eyes closed. He opened them with the same energy as his service. Robust and impeccable.

"Acier is a woman who respects strength, both in body and in character. Whatever you do, do not discuss anything regarding the lady's marriage status."

Considering the tone, Archer had a guess why.

"Contract marriage?"

"Quite sir."

"And the area?"

"It is on the grounds of the Silva family but…it is quite a ways deep. She owns a cabin there, well entrenched and far away from her husband. She spends most of her alone time there with her children when she's able."

"You make it seem that it's a distance away."

"That's because it is. The Silva family owns the largest estate grounds out of the four royal families."

"….fantastic" muttered Archer.

Dredrick smirked and held out a hand. In it was a strange object. Circular in shape with a strange indent on the side.

"This is a marker sir, one that I use for my magic. In the event that you ever require my services, simply press into the marker and I will be at your side in a moments notice."

"For such weak spacial magic, it is certainly useful."

"So I've been told."

From what Archer could glean, spacial magic was more about opening gates and manipulating space. Yet, Dredrick was basically teleportation, highly efficient teleportation. The man simply popped in and out of a location with nary a warning. If Archer were to have a guess…the popping sound was optional.

"….You were an assassin."

Dredrick's eyes narrowed, but not in anger. No, the man was instead happy.

"It's always nice to spend time with those that know. Yes, I am Lady Vermillion's shadow. My son is being trained for the same role for Fugoleon when he comes of age."

"Must be difficult."

Dredrick went to speak but locked eyes with Archer. There was a silent exchange between the two as Dredrick's eyes relaxed, a weight that wasn't present before escaping from him.
"…it always is, as you are aware…it does my heart proud to see that my Lady has a shadow of her own."

Archer gave a hollow smile.

"…I am sorry for any displeasure sure. But as you are aware topics such as these are seldom…pleasant."

Archer shrugged.

"It was my own curiosity. Nothing more."

Dredrick grunted.

"Quite. If I may offer some advice sir?"

Archer turned to him.

"…there has been something off with Lady Silva. I will not lie, it is more than possible that the birth has weakened her but…"

"Mereoleona expressed the same concerns. She wants me to inspect her. What's the problem?"

Dredrick's eyes shone with a murderous glint.

"Her husband…I am concerned this might be a ploy to gain control over the Silva family."

"Poison?"

"Not likely. Considering her standing, it would be the first thing to be checked sir."

"…magic?"

"You and I are both acutely aware that there is no such thing as 100% immunity to all magic. I am concerned this might be something more but there is nothing I can do. I have no one but my lady to pass such concerns with and politically she cannot, not without insinuating something. If you can find proof of anything, please bring it to me. I'll ensure that it is used to its utmost effectiveness."

Archer smiled, enjoying however slightly the discussion with Dredrick. The man seemed dedicated and more importantly, professional. Archer cared for Mereoleona, but she was a blunt as a raging bull. There was something to be said about engaging in discussions such as these.

"I'll see what I can find. No promises."

"Of course sir. Now, if I may offer the use of the carriage? I assure it is the most pleasant ride any noble can have."

"…it's about the show isn't it?"

"Quite right sir. That and the distance is quite far for a simple walk. While Lady Mereoleona has probably told you a great deal, please be aware. There are regulations for use of movement magic for the citizens of this kingdom…as you are not a registered citizen as of yet."

"The law would bend me backwards for any slight against the laws of this place."

"That is correct. My lord and lady have already begun the process of creating an identity for you, one that should ease any public distress against your relationship with my lady."

"That is not necessary. There is no,"

"Respectfully sir, this isn't about your relationship with Lady Mereoleona. As an unregistered citizen there are quite a few amenities that you cannot use. One of which is the transport services…"

"…and the reason we need to take the carriage."

"Quite right sir. While Lord Julius is quite amendable, lord Augustus is not as flexible."

"An interesting way to say the man is an asshole."

"Sir!"

Archer laughed as he exited the room. Archer grinned as he opened the door.

"Sorry for making you wait Leona."

Mereoleona rolled her eyes.

"Figures you sensed me. Ready to go?"

Archer looked Mereoleona over. She was wearing blue tunic of some sort paired with a set of blue pants. Over her shoulders was a cloak.

"Is having a clock standard for your culture?" asked Archer.

Mereoleona gripped her cloak and shrugged.

"Just doesn't feel right without one. Cloaks are easy to imbue spells into, so all the magic knights are equipped with them. Add in the popularity and well…"

"Everyone wants one. I get it."

Mereoleona grinned at Dredrick and whipped her fingers in a circle.

"You ready to pop us over to the Silva household?"

"My lady there is a carriage waiting for you outside. Your mother has requested that you follow standard protocol and arrive at the time that was specified in the correspondence between her and lady Silva."

"….of course she did."

Archer smiled and rose an eyebrow.

"Afraid to spend a little time with me?" asked Archer.

Mereoleona grinned as her eyes flashed.

"I should be saying the same to you. Nah, it's just annoying when you can teleport."

"Dredrick can teleport but I think you are aware of why he can't do that".

Talk about foreign airspace. Archer had zero doubts that there were dozens upon dozens of counter spells precisely for teleportation and spacial magic.

"You are impatient" said Archer with a smile, "besides I would like a tour of your kingdom and a carriage ride should be fine for that."

Mereoleona scowled.

"I had a different idea regarding that but fine. Let's go."

Archer shrugged helplessly. It would seem that Mereoleona was back on even footing. It would be harder to tease her now. The carriage waiting for them was not at all like the ones Archer was thinking of. It was a without wheels for starters, with a person sitting in the drivers seat. If Archer was to hazard a guess, it would function as a really big broom.

"Interesting" muttered Archer "it uses the mana of all those on it to function."

The driver shrugged helplessly at some thing he must have heard, ignoring both Archer and Mereoleona. Acting on instinct Archer opened the door for her, making Mereoleona scowl a bit.

"I didn't need you to do that" she muttered.

Archer merely grinned and raised an eyebrow. Was there some kind of meaning to it? Mereoleona sighed. Before Archer could blink she had grabbed him by his shirt and dragged him in with her. She didn't scowl but she seemed aggrieved all the same.

"That was a nice shirt" grunted Archer.

"I know…look I get that you're from a different world so ask before you do something like that. It sends a message?"

"Like?"

"Servants do that. Only servants. You. Are. Not. My. Servant. You are my equal…when we get in a carriage like this we get in it together when we do something, we do it together. I refuse for any one to disrespect you for anything."

"Your people seem just fine with me,"

"That's because they see as you are embracing your place. That you know you're lucky or some shit…it happened with a relative of mine. He was in love with this commoner and because he was a lesser noble my mother had no problems with them marrying but the pressure…it broke them."

"…are you worried the same would happen to us?"

Mereoleona's expression was resolute.

"Not a chance. The nobles are too weak to enforce anything and even if they were it's not like I care what they think. No, it's just irritating. Irks me on a spiritual level. Does that make sense?"

"…it shouldn't but it does."

It was about respect. No one liked it when someone disrespected their partner. Even Archer, dead as he was inside, felt that he would do unspeakable things if Mereoleona was ever threatened…it was weird for him, but ultimately something he's come to cherish. After all, he felt the same for Rin, Sakura, and even Luvia back in the day. All his past loves made him feel this way and just like each of them, his feelings for them were different. If anything, this felt like the time that he or rather Shirou played vessel to Sengo Muramasa. When Shirou was in control, the boy felt more emotion and felt a deeper love for Rin and Sakura. This..this was akin to that. To this day Archer still wasn't sure if he was an amalgamation of different shirou's who were merged to become EMIYA or if he was just one soul…it was never fundamentally clear.

The man found he didn't rightly care either. He was who he was.

"Hey, you ok?"

Archer blinked.

"Yes…just thinking."

"About?"

Archer tilted his head, wondering if this was appropriate to speak about. Silently Archer stared at the back of the carriage behind Mereoleona's head. She turned and grinned, tapping the wall.

"Completely sound proof. The only way they'll stop is if we fluctuate our mana."

"That's…insane. Could easily be used to assassinate someone".

"Right!? Honestly I think it's just a sign of how many dirty nobles there are that this service still exists. But hey, might as well take advantage of it. So, what's eating at you?"

Archer shrugged.

"Have I ever told you how I came to be?"

"That you contracted yourself to the world? Whatever that means."

"My world had a conscious entity…or rather humanity did. Alaya was the will of all humanity, and it was derived from a greater consciousness named Gaia, the will of the world."

"So, like a spirit."

"That's a good comparison, though much greater in scale than you are probably thinking. Anyway, my memories span…an incalculable amount of time. I have no memory of how my contract came to be."

"No memory at all?"

"There are memories of it…I just don't know if they are entirely mine. I have many memories but some of them are from different timelines…different…mes."

Mereoleona.

"Now you're wondering if you're the original?"

"There is no original" smirked Archer "just a collection of fools that made the same mistake. I am the counter guardian of the world…I was just thinking of how many possible variants there could be of me. How many of them merged to create the me I am now? It's an interesting thought experiment, much like the ship of Theseus in that regard."

Mereoleona blinked as she leaned in.
"So what, you're multiple people?"

"More like I was formed and created from multiple souls on the same wavelength. I am one man, but I was formed from the countless experiences of however many variants Alaya collected and merged…or I am simply that far broken that I have disassociated myself from my memories completely. Consider me more a spirit in human form than a genuine human."

Archer smirked as usual. But Mereoleona was in no laughing mood. She moved closer to Archer, grabbing his face.

"I've noticed this since all the time we've spent together…you don't care about yourself at all do you?"

"…no" smiled Archer "not really."

"…you aren't broken Archer. Twisted maybe, a super asshole for sure, but you ain't broken."

"I appreciate this but-"

"Shut up."

Archer blinked. This was a first. Rin tried to fix him and pitied him a great deal. Luvia, beautiful Luvia, tried to let him heal on his own, believing that if she gave him a normal relationship that he would live a normal life….though how normal you could be as a magus was debateable. It was Sakura who understood him the most…just how broken they were…how twisted. He loved all three of them deeply, but Sakura always looked at him with eyes free of pity…only remorse and love. Yet, the eyes he saw in Mereoleona were nothing but compassion.

"You are cracked, splintered" said Mereoleona "but you ain't broken. If you were…why care about me or others at all? Knowing you you'd say something like acting on instinct".

Mereoleona rested her forehead against Archer's.

"You mean a lot to me Archer just the way you are. I don't like it when you degrade yourself. So, stop it with that."

"…I'm not something that can be fixed" whispered Archer, his face leaning forward to brush his lips against Mereoleona's. The lioness merely grinned, giving the man a quick kiss.

"Why the hell would I want to fix you? That's something for you to decide. I fell for you the way that you are asshole, now shut up and kiss me."

This was going to end badly. She obviously did not know the full extent of just how twisted Archer was…but damnit if her kiss didn't ease the burden. Archer's hands found themselves rubbing circles on Mereoleona's thighs.

There was no hunger, no desire. Instead, their kiss was warm, affectionate. Mereoleona rubbed her fingers across Archer's face, separating after a few kisses. She settled for sitting beside Archer, her head resting on his shoulder, her hand placed firmly on his thigh.

"I'm with you because I like you. Simple as that. If you become someone, I can't see myself with, than I leave. Simple as that."

"Simple as that" smirked Archer.

"Simple. As that."

She looked to Archer, her eyes glowing with desire.

"So, relax. Let things go with the flow and we'll see from there. Besides, we're almost to the Silva estate."

Archer looked outside and noticed that they were well outside the kingdom's capital.
"Are you sure?"

"Yup! What you see here is all Silva's holdings."

"….that's an incredible amount of land to be owned by just one family."

"Well yea. The Silva family is all about real estate as they call it. They rent out the land they own and make money off the it."

"Still…to have all of this? Who even needs it?"

"Can't even begin to tell you. Acier was thinking of selling some of this land for commoner use but…"

"The king and her husband?"

"The king and her husband. Why she lets that limp dicked loser impregnate her is beyond me."

Archer smiled softly.

"You care for her."

"I do. Makes me angry she's wasting her time with someone like that."

"There's probably more to the story than we are aware you know?"
"So? Shit is shit, doesn't matter if there's extra steps to it."

Archer hated to admit it, but she had a point.

"I could have sworn there was supposed to be a tour?"

"Screw that. We'll make it a date later. Why see it from afar when you can see it up close?"

"True. You could just say you want to Acier as soon as possible."
"That too."

The carriage slowly faltered. It was if the thing hit turbulence in slow motion. Than a shimmering glow of…was that liquid metal?

"Hello Mereoleona! How are you!"

The voice was jubilant and strong. It would seem to Archer that this glob of metal was acting like a phone, receiving and sending audio.

"Acier, good to hear from you! I'll be a bit getting through the grounds, but we'll be there soon."

"Nonsense! I've given your carriage permission to land at my cabin."

Mereoleona blinked.

"uh…right."

"Oh, don't worry dear, everything is fine. Just didn't want you to have to go through all that nonsense at the gate. They haven't allowed me to have any guests at all! It's a travesty."

Mereoleona stared at the glob of metal with a repugnant expression.

"Anyway, see you soon!"

Archer watched Mereoleona groan once the metal left the carriage.

"I take it everything is not, ok?"

"No. Acier will always try and make everyone feel better before she even focuses on herself. You can't just go to that cabin of hers, it's just…not how it's done."

Archer frowned. Yet, in truth he cared very little. The carriage driver finally stopped and Archer felt the miniscule drain on his mana cease.

"We're here."

Mereoleona was waiting at the door with him and the two walked out together. Archer's first thought of the entire locale was that it was a lot like what he made for himself. He could immediately feel that this was a place of solitude and peace. The cabin was beautifully crafted, and Archer now understood what Mereoleona meant by his home being imperfect. The angles and dimensions of this cabin had zero flaws. A small detail but a noticeable one. The carriage moved away, soaring through the air as quickly as it could. The door opened revealing a young man with startling white hair. He looked about the cusp of teenhood but his expression was tense.

"Lady Vermillion, I…wasn't notified you'd be bringing a guest."

"Didn't realize I had to notify you squirt."

The boy scowled, his expression delving deeper into what seemed a permanent scowl. Whatever his next words were, never left. Instead, the voice of Acier echoed through the cabin. It was soft but firm.

"Come now Nozel, you know that me and Mereoleona are good friends. She's free to bring whoever she likes. Now come, sit with me and your sister."

The boy shut his mouth and made way for Mereoleona and Archer to enter. It was surreal to see that the entire building was much larger on the inside than on the outside. For Archer, this was pretty simplistic. Even the magus back home had access to this kind of magic. The difference lay that only the truly rich and powerful could accomplish it on a scale as frivolous as a cabin. The woman inside the cabin was sitting beside a small flame with a buddled-up girl in her arms. She was obviously haggard and seemed to be struggling with something. Archer ignored all the words and instead focused on the matter at hand.

"…weakness in body."

He looked at her face.

"Still filled with energy."

Archer's ki zeroed in on Acier, to analyze her mana. It took some concentration, but he was able to delve further into his analysis. Ordinarily there would have to be physical contact and Archer's analysis would be noticeable. But thanks to Ki, that was a non issue.

Archer's features remained calm and collected, but the mana he was seeing was concerning. Her mana was twisted, being mangled by some inner force, attacking her body from within. It was a brutal curse, one that was only suppressed by the powerful mana that Acier had. She could last a while like this…but she would eventually die. Archer smiled, approaching Acier.

"How dare you commoner! She is royalty! You do not simply approach!"

Acier waved her son off.

"It's fine Nozel. Who are you, young man? Are you Mereoleona's friend?"

Mereoleona grinned as she wrapped her arm around Archer's shoulder.

"He's, my partner. Thought it be nice to introduce you two."

Acier blinked. She stared at her baby and then back to Archer and Mereoleona.

"…you're serious?"

Mereoleona's face turned vicious.

"Hey what's that supposed to mean!"

Acier giggled and covered her mouth with her free hand.

"Sorry Mery, just wanted to have a laugh! I'm happy you found someone. I was just shocked you even wanted someone."

Archer continued to analyze the curse within Acier's body. It was a surreal experience, seeing curses this way. But Archer was confident he could do something about it. Besides, not like it mattered if he failed. But he promised Mereoleona his full effort, and that's what he'll give.

"You're cursed I see."

The boy and Acier stiffened up. Acier looked horrified along with the boy. Archer's eyes narrowed at the way they kept quiet. Like a reflex they had to stamp down on.

Mereoleona grinned.

"Archer's the best man I know regarding all that mana stuff. He's also got some weird magic. I brought him with me to see if he can help."

Archer narrowed his eyes, the curse beginning to accelerate.

"Ahh…so that's what it is" he muttered "you and the boy are cursed. If I were to guess…something about telling others about the curse agitates it…no something worse. Don't respond, you'll simply activate it. Your curse is already becoming more aggressive."

Archer rolled the sleeves of his steel grey dress shirt. Nozel only scowled.

"I don't sense any mana coming off you! Lady Vermillion, please! I understand that he is your partner but this is not something for….for a magicless freak to engage himself with!"

Archer could feel the utter rage from Mereoleona's mana. Acier herself seemed appalled at the boy's words.

"Nozel! That is disrespectful. Regardless of his station, he is Mereoleona's partner, at least respect that much."

"So, she's as much a noble as her son," thought Archer "she's just more polite about it."

To be fair Archer could see that this was more due to the inability of commoners than an issue regarding bloodlines. As far as Archer could sense, commoners on the vast majority were weaker in magic and didn't develop as well. Due to grimoires, this was more so a pattern than a lack of resources. Archer blinked, realizing the boy was still fuming away.

"Quiet."

Archer approached Acier and held out his hand. If the curse was able to retaliate in the event of someone divulging its existence, that meant it was somewhat aware. Not sentient, but at least able to function on its own. The worst kind of curse. Like an autonomous golem, but in curse form.

"If I may examine you, my lady? I need only your hand."

Acier seemed hesitant but relented all the same. Archer could sense her worry but It was fine, not like Archer cared all that much. There was a little trick though. He didn't plan to examine her at all.

"I am the bone of my sword" whispered Archer "Steel is my body.

Archer felt the gears of his inner world move for the first time since he'd arrived here. His body was steel and with it came some benefits. From the tip of Archer's finger, the blade of rule breaker stuck out like a thorn. An utterly useless application is combat. His body would simply break apart from having weapons burst from within. Not to mention the concentration it took was far too much in any given combat situation. But for stealth operations like this? Invaluable. Acier made to move away, wondering where his mana had come from, but cringed as his finger broke skin, her blood dripping to the floor as her movements made the cut larger.

"HOW DARE Y-"

Nozel's words died in his throat as a surge of inky black mana broke away from Acier. She gasped, as the curse that afflicted her was severed from her body, flowing upward. The sigh of relief that echoed through the cabin left no misunderstandings.

The curse was lifted. Even Nozel seemed to relax slightly, catching Archer's eye. Archer dispassionately looked at Acier's tome and rose an eyebrow.

"Interesting. So, rule breaker can't sever a mage's connection with their grimoire. Good to know."

Archer was aware that, as a tool, that Rule Breaker could be used to steal something like a magic crest. Archer was also certain that it could be used to steal a grimoire. However, that required a set of skills that Archer didn't have. He had the knowledge necessary due to the noble phantasm but that was like being given the solution without the means. Archer's uncaring eyes stared at the black cloud of mana swirling above them, his hands preparing themselves for the worst. No byproduct of mana should last that long, not in this world. Acier took her baby and jumped away on instinct, her eyes wide and unfocused.

The cloud twisted in on itself, there was no face so much as a feeling. It was like a smog, a hateful smog filled with spite trying to latch onto anything in range. Archer was somewhat impressed by it. He had never seen a curse act completely on its own in such a manner…not without an anchor of some kind. There were of course creatures formed by curses and even demonic entities that were similar, but this was raw curse energy with seemingly no sentience behind it. Archer sighed, relaxing himself into a proper stance. Nozel seemed to try the same…though the young man seemed to be shaken by something.

His mind moving quickly, he took stock of the room. It couldn't be the three of them…and the way Nozel also kept shut meant that the effects of the curse were diluted in some form. Archer was already moving when the curse made it's move. Acier screamed as the cloud moved to attack Nozel

"NOZEL MOVE! IT'S AFTER YOU!"

The poor boy was frozen stiff, but he seemed to grow a spine as he growled at the smog. His own mercury magic shot out, attempting to stop the curse. When it simply fazed through the mercury, the boy accepted his fate. It was better him than his mother.

Then he felt his face pushed into a very muscular chest and his thoughts ceased for a moment. A pure expression of utter shock spread as he was lifted effortlessly to safety. His eyes slowly moved up to the stern face of Archer. His amber eyes looked down to the boy, serious and deadly.

"You all right boy?"

His face turned an immediate shade of red. Archer rose an eyebrow at the non-verbal reaction and focused on the curse. It flowed through the room, attempting to get the kid, but Archer summoned a blade beneath his feet and jumped clear across the room again, this time further away from Mereoleona and Acier. He nodded to his partner, her savage grin growing. The fiery lioness shot forth a surge of pure fire…but even Archer was surprised when the flames did nothing to the curse.

"It's pure magic!" yelled Acier "it can't be destroyed by normal means!"

That made no sense to Archer whatsoever. Magic was magic, there was nothing pure about this. It was more likely due to the nature of the curse in and of itself. It was more likely to be impervious to conventional magic, probably a safeguard to prevent it from being lifted by average means. Archer ignored her, summoning a spear.

It was beautiful, a dark bloody red, one that caught the eye of Nozel. Mereoleona seemed to relax, letting Archer do his thing. Besides, she was more concerned with protecting Acier and her child than fighting now. Archer stared at her, wondering what her game was, but brought his focus back to the cloud as the two made their descent down.

The mass of curse magic rushed them as Archer and Nozel fell to the floor. Just as Archer had planned. A single swipe of the spear split the mass of curses in two, destroying every ounce of it in its path and forcing the mass to eject to either side of Archer or be destroyed. Acier blinked, watching the curse be dispelled without a second thought. It was like…it was like...

"Anti-magic" whispered Acier.

Nozel, still crushed to Archer's chest began to slowly get himself back together.

"L-let me go" he whispered, his face horribly red. He attempted to push agaisnt Archer, only to flinch back, as if the man's chest burned his hands. Archer let him go without a second thought, but he still put himself in front of the boy. He rolled his back, letting the muscles pop and stretch in preparation for the fight. Archer focused on the mass of cursed energy swirling back together. It was smaller this time, leading Archer to smirk. He rolled his neck and began to twirl the spear in practiced movements, getting used to the skills of its owner and his own skills.

"Gae Dearg" intoned Archer "the spear of exorcism. Seems to work well on a cursed entity like you."

The mass swirled mindlessly in its pursuit of Nozel. The boy watched entranced as Archer swirled the spear with expert precision, destroying most of the cursed energy in one pass. Archer grinned as it tried to run away. Archer sighed, a visible breath escaping his lips. The spear cracked in blues as it was overloaded with magical energy. He hurled the spear, letting it detonate in the mass of curses. The entire smog disappeared easily, destroyed with ease as the shards of Gae Dearg obliterated everything in it's path.

Acier rose an eyebrow, watching as Archer's magic weapon gouged into her cabin, destroying much of the magically protected furniture and walls. Archer rolled his shoulders and began fixing his attire, he turned to Nozel and Acier. Gae Dearg would not normally be able to do this, only disrupting magical energy on the point of contact. However, the curse's strength lied more in its potency than its ability to maintain it's shape without a host. Something like Gae Dearg would just destroy it, as the curse lacked the ability to simply mend itself from the simple disruption. Strong magic would naturally reconnect, but that curse lacked the means to do so with no host to maintain it.

Contract type curses were aggravating and highly dangerous, as they used the strength of the mage to further fuel itself. They were deeply entrenched within the victim, making them near impossible to circumvent without very specific spells and in-depth knowledge of the curse itself. It was ironic in a way. The most difficult curses to break were the easiest for Archer to destroy, whereas the easier curses proved difficult as Rule Breaker was next to useless against them.

"Well, that was eventful. I trust this stays between us four, no?"

Acier blinked and began to smile, happy tears streaming down her face. She looked at Nozel and her baby. She flexed her mana, churning it all manner of shapes.

"I'm…I'm going to live?" she whispered.

"Yes, though the consequences of having been host to a curse like that will likely be reflected on your body for quite some time. But eventually you should be back to whatever your top shape was."

Acier stared at Archer.

"Who are you?"

Archer titled his head. He bowed, though it felt mocking to Acier and Nozel.

"Your lady, my name is Archer and I am the partner of Mereoleona."

Mereoleona grinned.

"He's the one who taught me that reinforcement trick. Thought you might want to talk to him about it."

Acier looked at Archer and narrowed her eyes.

"You…do not have a grimoire?"

Nozel blinked and looked at the man with awe. It was highly considered that a mage without a grimoire was simply incomplete.

"No, I do not" stated Archer "will that be a concern?"

"A grimoire isn't just for magic" explained Acier "it's also a sign of ones birth kingdom."

"Ahh, I see."

"You are not from around here, are you?"

"Not even remotely" grinned Archer "though Mereoleona has made mentions of acquiring me a grimoire, I have no need for it."

"Please" stated Acier, a smile on her face "you've saved my life. That curse…it would have killed me eventually. Anyone that I would tell would simply become cursed. Even Nozel couldn't say a word without harming anyone else."

Archer rose an eyebrow, wondering where this was going.

"Let me and my family get you a grimoire. We can assist you in becoming a citizen of the kingdom without involving our King Augustus."

Archer turned to Mereoleona and found her grinning widely.

"My family is already helping with that."

Acier grinned.

"Excellent! I would love to help! With our two families it should be iron clad even under Julius's scrutiny!"

Archer blinked. Acier merely smiled sweetly.

"Oh it's just a frame of reference sweetheart, Julius will be very well aware of the situation. The man takes his job very seriously. As such we reviews everything he can with the greatest care. Knowing him though he will be obsessed with learning about your magic…he's a bit of a loon about new forms of magic you see. He's totally harmless though, like a teddy bear!"

Archer found that hard to believe. A man that could bend space and time to his will was an insipid fool for magic? Doubtful. His meeting with Julius would end quickly and then he would finally find what he needed for Mereoleona's gift.

-Two days later-

Archer was wrong. He was very wrong. Archer maintained his usual calm but at the moment he was getting more and more aggravated. Being in a room surrounded by nobles would do that to anyone. At the forefront of the room was one Julius Novochrono, the wizard king. Archer had to admit, the man dressed the part. Using Ki Archer was also aware that the man was extremely powerful. The other nobles were also of no concern.

To the right of the room was Mereoleona and her parents. To the right was Acier and her children. Nozel Archer knew but the smaller twins were unknown to him. Thankfully they were quiet, unlike some children. No, the biggest issue lied in the unexpected guest…one Augustus Clover, the current king of the Clover Kingdom.

How the idiot of a man came across this meeting eluded Archer. Acier and the Vermillions appeared to be competent people, people with experience working around this idiot. Fate was a bitch sometimes it seems.

"So" squeaked out Augustus "you are the foreign noble looking for sanctuary?"

The self importance of the man was impressive. Archer only knew of a handful of servants that matched this man's ego…but none of them had his cowardice. Even Jason had more balls than this idiot. However, Archer was an old hand at manipulation. There shouldn't be an issue from this point. With a bow Archer began to explain himself, his eyes downcast.

"That is correct sir. The Vermillion family has graciously given me their hospitality in my trying times. By your grace, I would seek sanctuary within your kingdom."

"I hope you do not expect to carry your…noble title here."

Archer grinned outside of view. As he rose his head, Archer schooled is expression into the epitome of serenity.

"Of course not your majesty. The nobles of your kingdom have worked hard to earn and maintain their titles. It would be ridiculous to expect the same honor and prestige that you and your compatriots have earned."

Mereoleona stared at Archer, her face twisted at the audacity of his bullshit. Lowin and Hunter were merely impressed at Archer's willingness to play along their little fabrication. That and they were relieved that at least he had some clue about politics. Augustus, as usual, was unaware of the play by play and merely grinned. He even twirled his moustache in self importance. The man's ego was also inflated by the fact that he was seated in Julius's chair. Currently, this group was occupying the office of the wizard king. How Augustus found out about the meeting was concerning. Archer turned to Acier slightly, eyeing the missing husband. Acier gave a small nod.

"Of course," thought Archer "her husband must be attempting some kind of power play."

Archer didn't know why her husband was a dick about this, but fine. He worked with far less. Archer stood tall, squaring his shoulders to Augustus.

"Your majesty, if I may make my case for Asylum in your kingdom?"

Augustus grinned, enjoying the power he seemingly had.

"Of course, of course! I promise nothing though."

Julius rose an eyebrow but sighed. Unlike the other nobles Julius treated Augustus like the man child he was. He tried to steer the man to improve himself but…to no avail. He was more concerned with Archer though. Augustus didn't see it, but Julius did. The man was stone cold. His entire persona a fabrication just for Augustus. Everyone was aware of it, except the fool himself. It was a message for Julius that Archer was more than he appeared. A way to prevent…future misunderstandings based on this meeting, if Julius was to guess.

Archer relaxed and looked to Mereoleona. He had smirked at her…though to Augustus it looked like a small smile.

"My kingdom is from a land far from here" intoned Archer "I believe you have someone that hails from the same lands I do."

Augustus grimaced a bit.

"You mean that disgusting Yami fellow."

The surge of anger that Julius exerted was quickly crushed but Archer had felt it with his ki. This man was protective of Yami was he? Interesting. Archer couldn't care less though.

"The very same, though we hail from different kingdoms we are both from across the sea."

Archer knew nothing about Yami. Hell, the man could have been just further north than the spade kingdom or something. But Augustus didn't know either and the man, like a fish on a hook, followed along.

"In my case, the kingdom I hail from has been destroyed by our rivals and my parents transported me with their unique spacial magic."

Mereoleona gave the stink eye to Archer. Lowin and Hunter rose an eyebrow, wondering what Archer was doing. Julius however felt himself pale a litte. The way the man was acting…it was if he knew exactly how Augustus was feeling…feeding the superiority complex the man had for himself and his kingdom.

"Can he sense ki!?" thought Julius.

An extremely rare skill, one that Julius and other mages have attempted to learn and failed. Even from Yami's homeland, the ability to sense Ki and use magic was not a common one. Granted Yami was a crap teacher but that was beside the point. Archer decided to twist things a little and begin entrenching his view point in Augustus.

"They saved you instead of themselves?" asked Augustus.

"My parents planned to follow shortly after but it is obvious that they failed. I am the last line of kings from my land, though the term we used is Shogun."

Augustus mouthed the word Shogun, his attention entranced by Archer's words.

"No" thought Julius "this entirely different. What is he doing?" Augustus was a stubborn brat of a man…he wouldn't simply listen as he was doing now.

Archer smirked.

"It seems it's a success" he thought.

Yami was a master when it came to sensing Ki but lacked in skill in comparison to the warriors of his homeland. They were capable of infusing ki into their attacks for greater effect. But Archer was different. The man had lived through countless battlefields and had honed his senses to such extremes that he could exert his ki outwards, adjusting what people felt and sensed from him. Now, Archer was twisting his ki to present himself as trustworthy and truthful. Even if others couldn't sense Ki consciously, that didn't mean that their subconscious registered nothing. Anyone with a brain would question his words, regardless of how trusting they felt he was.

Augustus didn't even register the fact that he was being strung along.

"My magic is something unique to our lands. Unlike your kingdom, with your fascinating grimoires, our land made it a point to hone our magic on our own. I admit this limits the amount of spells one can learn…but it does give me a slight advantage in craftsmanship, like so."

With a flourish Archer created a sceptre. Augustus leaned forward, incredibly fascinated by the instant craftsmanship of the sceptre showed itself. Augustus blinked as Archer's mana made itself known. It was easily in league with any high ranking noble.

"Your magic is quite powerful!" smiled Augustus, clapping at the show "why on earth would you hide it?"

"In my lands it is considered rude to showcase ones magic."

"That is a little ridiculous."

Julius mentally groaned. If Archer had been a diplomat of a foreign kingdom, he would have just insulted them.

"I agree" grinned Archer "but habits die hard."

"…I've decided" stated Augustus, a false air of importance about him "I will grant you Asylum young man. You've proven yourself a respectable sort…and as such I will grant you a minor noble title. I cannot disrespect a prospective king but with your kingdom destroyed…this is the best I can do. Please understand that this is a title in name only. You will receive no support from my kingdom in regard to your finances."

Archer smiled brightly. It was so bright and joyful that it was painfully obvious to anyone that it was fake as fake can be.

"Thank you your highness, I will remember this!"

The pompous man hopped off his chair, laughing as he left the room. The second the door shut, Archer's face lost all emotion and he stared at Julius.

"Who brought him?"

Julius groaned.

"I see you're more like Mereoleona."

The woman in question grinned savagely.

"Damn straight. But damn Archer…that was creepy."

"What?"

"…you smiling."

Archer frowned slightly and gave Mereoleona a look. The woman merely grinned in return.

"Now" said Archer, turning to Julius "what now?"

"The king has given his blessings to grant you a minor title."

"And?"

"It basically puts you into the realms of nobility. It is a title only given to commoners whose magic power and deeds have warranted such a reward."

"Basically, it means nothing."

A noble like Archer would be that in nothing but name. Any attempt to integrate himself into the noble society proper would be met with great resistance.

"Basically yes" smiled Julius "but with the backing of the Vermillion and Silva families your title will be respected."

Archer nodded, excellent. He didn't need anything remotely like this but if Lowin and Hunter were to be believed, it would make life easier.

"Now, about that grimoire" smiled Julius.

Archer rose an eyebrow.

"I have no issue giving my blessing for you to receive a grimoire. From what Acier has told me, you have more than earned our kingdom's trust. To think that one of our strongest was cursed this whole time…it brings me relief that she is safe but.."

"Your defenses?" guessed Archer.

"Quite right. To think that someone could fight Acier without anyone knowing and to leave no traces of ambient curse magic as well? It's unthinkable."

"Anything is possible" shrugged Archer.

"Yes, like your creation magic. I've never seen someone with such pure steel before. To create as quickly and effectively as you do…"

Julius trailed off, the shadows obscuring his visage as he shuddered slightly. Archer rose an eyebrow, only to flinch back from the man as he rushed forward. The man's eyes sparkled, they were like stars.

"That's such amazing magic!" yelled Julius "I've never seen anything like it! I can't wait to see what sort of grimoire gets paired with you!"

Archer grimaced slightly at the overbearing nature of Julius. He was saved as Mereoleona got between them.

"Hey! Back off!"

Julius blinked and stared at Mereoleona. He than stared at Archer, back to Mereoleona, and than back to Archer. The man had the audacity to coo a little and cover his mouth.

"Is the little lioness protecting her boyfriend."

Mereoleona rose an eyebrow and crossed her arms.

"And?"

"Nothing nothing. I'll send a missive to the tower to get Archer set up. Is there anything else you need?" asked Julius.

Archer stepped forward.

"If I may?"

"Oh! By all means."

"It is to my understanding that I am effectively a nobleman of this country."

"That's correct."

"What expectations are there for me?"

"In theory you would be expected to attend certain meetings and participate in some fashion in improving and maintaining the kingdom. This can be done through various means of course."

"In practice?"

"Well in practice…you have no such responsibilities. The backing from the Vermillion and Silva families have effectively freed you from such expectations. Lowin and Hunter here have requested to give you the same freedoms as Mereoleona. With Acier here giving her backing as well there's no reason for to reject that. I will admit though…in the event that we call Mereoleona back, you are expected to return as well."

"Understandable" stated Archer "these are batter terms than I was expecting anyways. Now where is this tower?"

"In the further reaches of the kingdom. By the time you and Mereoleona make it there, my missive will have arrived."

"Perfect" stated Archer.

Acier nodded to Julius and walked to Archer. Her twin children were gripping her skirt while Nozel stood at her side, the ever-dutiful son.

"I wanted to apologize for today" sighed Acier, her hand touching her cheek "I wasn't expecting Martin to tell Augustus about today."

"Your husband is?"

Acier rolled her eyes.

"An annoyance to be sure. But a necessary one. After all, I wouldn't have my children without him."

"Mother…father has outlived his usefulness. A divorce should be more than enough."

To Archer's immense shock her children nodded with him. What kind of man was so horrid a husband and father that the children were urging her to divorce the man?

"It might be time" sighed Acier "Julius, I will be retiring from the battlefield."

The man smiled and nodded.

"Of course lady Silva, after all…the curse did such a number on your body."

Acier smirked back at the man. Archer merely smiled and shrugged, moving towards the door.

"By your leave your majesty. I have a city to explore."

Julius waved him off, letting the others leave the room. Lowin and Hunter said their goodbyes while Mereoleona drifted to Archer's side.

"So, any place in particular you want to explore?" she asked.

"Do you have a magic shop anywhere, for tools and such?"

"…what?"

It proved a hell of day. Archer's noble status wasn't something that just popped above his head. As such there were a few shop keepers that were annoyingly tight lipped…at least until Mereoleona sort them out. In the end he had mostly everything he needed for Mereoleona's gift…the issue lied in how to create it. Now, Archer and Mereoleona were at a restaurant of some kind. It would have been a nice evening, a candle lit dinner, with a view that Archer admitted was quite nice. The sun setting over a horizon of magical buildings. It would have been…save for the company. Mereoleona was tapping her finger as she waited for the serving staff to get there food.

"It shouldn't be taking this long for service" grumbled Mereoleona.

"I would agree…if not for the crowd we've drawn."

The two ignored the blatant starting from both the customers and those from the streets. Archer and Mereoleona had seated themselves, as directed by the restaurant, by a window. The table was nice and the cutlery was fashioned with intricate engravings. At the moment the two of the them were nursing glasses of water, waiting for their server. One that was impeded by the large amount of people that were blocking their table.

"I think it might be best to eat elsewhere" muttered Archer, tapping his finger on the table impatiently.

"Hell no. My brother said this place had the best venison bar none. I want to put that to the test."

"I doubt they can do much worse than me. We usually eat over a flame in the wilderness, they have cooking magic. I believe there would be no comparison?"

"We'll see."

Archer sighed. Suddenly the crowd dispersed as a server squeezed through the people.

"Honestly! This is not the first time Fugoleon has come to our…oh."

The server was a young woman, her blue hair pulled into a tight ponytail. She wore a white dress shirt with a black apron. With practiced ease she pulled whipped out her grimoire, the book floating and turning pages on a whim.

"So, what can I get you two?"

Archer was perusing the menu, but Mereoleona had her food ready for order.
"I want your Venison Steak, rare, paired with whatever wine you think is best."

The server turned to Archer. To Mereoleona's slight annoyance, the poor girl blushed slightly.

"And you, lord Silva?"

The man blinked and turned to her.

"I am not a Silva."

"Really? Far as I'm aware they're the only ones born with silver hair. I'm terribly sorry!"

Archer waved it off.

"I'll have your sea food pasta please."

"Sauce of choice?"

"Surprise me."

"Of course. Would you like a drink?"

"I'll have a red wine please."

Mereoleona turned to Archer as the man crossed his legs together. He smiled at her.

"I'm surprised you'd take me out for dinner? I'm not easy to buy you know?"

Mereoleona grinned.

"I know you're a foody. Besides, I thought you'd like to see more than those eggheads down at the tech department."

Their version of tech was interesting. The men and woman that Archer ended up discussing his latest project with were very helpful in directing his pursuits to more feasible avenues. The people around them watched with bated breath. Finally, Mereoleona lost her nerve.

"DAMNIT PEOPLE FUCK OFF!"

The restaurant quickly reorganized itself. Mereoleona huffed away while Archer continued to twist and adjust the blueprint in his head. The food arrived quickly, something Archer attributed to food magic, odd as it was. It smelled excellent and so far the visuals implied an incredible meal. Mereoleona tooka bite of her venison and scowled a bit.
"It's good…but lacking. I like yours better."

Archer smiled, enjoying the slight warmth.

"You need not lie for my sake."

"I ain't kidding, here."

She took a piece of her venison. Archer took the offered fork and chewed the meat. To his surprise…Mereoleona was right. The meat was good, no question, but it was obvious that they were not the speciality of the chef. It was worth the money but Archer could do better. The sauce for the venison though was exquisite.

"The sauce will make the meat taste better, though they could have done better with the meat overall. Now, for my own food."

Returning her fork Archer tried his pasta. To his relief, the food was as fantastic as it looked. The spices and herbs worked in beautiful harmony while the red sauce served as an excellent base. The seafood, shrimp in this case, worked well as an accompaniment. Archer swirled the wine in his glass and took a sip. The bitter wine backed with the after taste of his pasta was even better.

"This, is excellent."

Mereoleona reached over and tried it for herself. She sighed in relief at the taste.

"Damn, Fugoleon wasn't kidding."

"Excuse me?"

The two turned to see a larger man in a chef's uniform. The man was on the larger side with a heft to his stomach. But his arms were well muscled. His scowl as was apparent as a younger chef was awkwardly at his side. In the chef's hands was a different venison meal. This one Archer could see was of better quality. The meat shone and from the smell alone Archer could see that it was cooked with more precision.

"My apologies for the meal lady Mereoleona our new chef here went agaisnt our recipe and as you can see it turned out…less than our stellar quality. Here, the proper meal on the house."

Mereoleona blinked, switching the plates. She took one bite of her meal and smiled brightly.

"Man, this is great! You've really outdone yourself with this one! It's just as good as yours Archer!"

The chef blinked and turned to Archer.

"Oh?"

"I cook here and there, not professionally."

"So? Cooking well is not a skill held only by professionals. Regardless, I am happy you are satisfied with your meal. Now, apologize Grimal."

The young man named Grimal sighed, apologizing.

"I'm sorry. I genuinely thought using wine as a base would enhance the flavour and the meat."

The man bowed.

"It was my mistake."

The chef sighed, rubbing the back of his head.

"Honestly Grimal you've already improved three of our recipes, you can't expect all of them to be winners. Is there anything else you need tonight Lady Mereoleona."

She shook her head, waving them off. Grimal scowled at her attitude, but shivered as her eyes focused on him. It was like a lion staring down a rabbit. The chef left with his protégé and Archer smirked.

"Rude much?"

"What? Thinks he's hot shit because he makes good food? Bite me. Besides, it was obvious he was trying to usurp his master and it failed. If you were going to experiment with a recipe do so when it's not a paying customer."

Archer chuckled.

"Oh I agree with you quite readily."

"Douche."

The two chuckled away the night. Mereoleona paid for the food and the two were out walking the moon lit streets. Archer felt Mereoleona curl her arm into his and the two moved with a silent comfort.

"You ready for tomorrow?"

"Depends. Does it have to be tomorrow?"

"Maybe not. But I'm itching to start heading out again."
"Ah. Not waiting for your brother."

"Fugoleon will be fine. Besides I plan to return a bit more often now."

Archer smiled.

"Good. I was worried for nothing it seems."

"I get what you meant about time…but it seems to me that you don't really care about your parents."

Archer shrugged.

"Not really. I cannot care for those I have no memory of. Even my adoptive father is more or less just a name to me."

"He named you Archer?"

"No one named me Archer. I threw away my old name."

Mereoleona blinked.

"Seriously?"

"Seriously. It's a depressing story, one we don't need to talk about."

Archer normally didn't care about describing his attempts on his own life…but he doubted that Mereoleona wanted the full story of him trying to wipe himself out from existence.

"I get it" murmured Mereoleona "sorry, for bringing it up and all."

"You didn't know. It's no one's fault."

The silence was comfortable but Archer felt the need to be…more with her. A relationship was only worth the effort you put in. Archer turned to Mereoleona, his lover raising an eyebrow at him.

"…my name was Shirou Emiya."

She blinked.

"Shirou Emiya?"

Archer nodded, the twitch of annoyance from his name easily hidden.

"Sounds stupid. I like Archer better."

He blinked and stared at Mereoleona, the toothy grin on her face making him smile in turn. She didn't think anything about the name, but she knew he didn't like it. It was little things like this that made Archer care for her more.
"Thanks."

"Don't mention it. So did that dad of yours teach you your magic?"

"Actually no…and yes."

"Really."

"I'm being entirely truthful. He did teach me magic but the methods he used were more to make me shy away from magic overall rather than to assist me in becoming proficient."

"The hell? Why?"

"I never did explain the differences between our worlds in full have I?"

"No. Now you got me curious though."

"It's a long story."

"We got all night Archer."

And so Archer began to regale her with information, telling her of the key differences between their world and his old one. Suffice to say, that Mereoleona was not impressed.

"Your world fucking sucks" she said, nearing the Vermillion estate.

"It was rather shitty in comparison to this place."

"I mean friggen vampires?"

"Dead Apostols".

"VAMPIRES. Stupid name for them. Anyways your world is nuts."

"Quite so."

"It's like someone kept forgetting the rules they set and made new ones over them!"

Archer nodded along.

"It was those very rules that brought me here, after all. So, I can't complain too much."

"Fair point" muttered Mereoleona "alright let's get some sleep. We have a big day tomorrow!"

Archer smiled and shook his head.

"You and this grimoire. You just want me to have it so I present a better challenge."

"Damn straight!"

"I've told you a hundred times already, the grimoire will not be the boost you think it will be, at least for me."

Mereoleona, of course, ignored him. Archer shrugged helplessly and moved to catch up.

-The next day-

The tower proved itself to be…unimpressive. The grimoires inside were teeming with magic but the building itself was poorly maintained on the outside. But Archer kept his mouth shut. Who was he to judge. An older gentleman was awaiting them inside the tower, his outfit something Archer thought belonged in a wizard cartoon. He had the hat and everything.
"Ahh, you are the one they sent for I take it?"

Odd way to say it but whatever.

"Sure" said Archer.

The man snapped his fingers and the entirety of the grimoires within the tower shone brightly.

"I'll begin. Be aware that the grimoires here are self sufficient. They will bind to you the best suited grimoire. So there is no redo, retry, or begging for another chance at a four leaf grimoire."

Archer rose an eyebrow and looked at Mereoleona.

"They say a four leaf grimoire has good luck" said Mereoleona "there's also the idea that a four leaf grimoire has a greater number of spells thana three leaf grimoire."

"Is that true?"

"No clue. Not like anyone can bother to count it properly. Not all the spells within the grimoire are active you know."

"Quite right. The grimoires are a collection of strength from those in the past. They are symbiotic in nature and will only reveal spells that are in the interests or necessity of their users. Such sweet dears are they not?"

"Oh great, he's insane" thought Archer and Mereoleona.

The books began to shuffle as a single Grimoire floated lifelessly to Archer. It was just the cover, no pages, and barely a single clover leaf. He raised his eyebrow as the older man looked at him with surprise.

"Well I'll be, a blank grimoire! I've only seen that about twice before you."

"So?"

"It means you're branching to unknown or absurdly rare magic. Claim it young man, it is yours. It will morph to adjust itself to your magic perfectly."

Mereoleona sighed, realizing that Archer was right…somewhat.

"What do you mean adjust itself?"

The old man smiled as Archer gripped the Grimoire.

"The grimoires are not just a collection of spells young man."

The grimoire began to glow a reddish hue, the cover becoming a burnt burgundy.

"They are catalysts and focuses. A way to enhance and adjust magic and spells."

A series of gears began to spin on the cover of the grimoire, a second clover leaf forming.

"With it, it is possible to use spells that would normally be out of reach for a given individual. A way to share the burden so to speak. In life, the Grimoire gives and in death it takes a portion of your magic to add it its own. To give to the next user."

Archer's grimoire began to compile a few pages as a third clover leaf formed.

"As you can see your spells are being reflected….what the?"

The pages kept growing, Archer's grimoire expanding to a ludicrous size, only for it to shrink back to a normal book. The process kept repeating itself over and over again, the gears on the book spinning to the point sparks and fire were spewing out.

"THIS IS ABSURD! DAMNIT YOUNG MAN WHAT DID YOU DO!?"

The old man's wise visage was broken as he stared at the absurdity of the grimoire. It kept expanding and shrinking. The gears…the spinning…the expanding pages. It was attempting to connect to his inner world. Archer turned to Mereoleona and smiled.

"I never did show you, did I?"

She blinked. Suddenly she felt a thrum of something indescribable. Archer's mana echoed through the tower, a circle of blue flames spinning rapidly around him. The old man rushed away, running to the top of the tower for something. That or he was a coward. Mereoleona watched intently as Archer spread his arms in a practiced motion.

I am the bone of my Sword

Steel is my body and fire is my blood.

I have created over a thousand blades.

Unknown to Death,

Nor known to life.

Have withstood pain to create many weapons.

Yet, these hands will never hold anything…

Till now.

So, as I pray-

UNLIMITED BLADEWORKS

To Mereoleona it was if the world shuddered at his words. The grimoire shuddered in turn, spewing out fire as the world around them changed. Archer's eyes glazed over as an unknown instinct took over.

World Creation Magic: Unlimited Bladeworks.

She saw it only for a moment. A sea of sand, with countless weapons shoved into the sand. Gears spinning in the sky. It was surreal and yet..she felt as if she saw Archer in his totality…as if she saw his soul. The world was only visible for a second, making Archer blink. Mereoleona of course responded to this with the prestige and grace of nobility.

"What the actual fuck was that?"

END!

Alrighty everyone next chapter is a big time skip! We start getting into the nitty gritty of it. For me, I always felt this story was designed to be short (15-20 chapters) as such I'm trying to hedge chapters and work that didn't center on the main plot. I am 100 percent doing the elf arc, however I'm not sure if I am going to keep going to the next arc. Either way I have endings in place for both. Hope you enjoyed this!