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Fate/birthscion Genesis -beginnings-

Act 5 - Calm Before the Full Moon's Howl

Summary: With the mole, Ramza Kinich Bazlage, now slain at the hands of Shirou Emiya. But with the meeting between the members of the Round Table involving the looming war. Wol and Jeanne agree to help hone their strength at Artoria's behest.

3/10/2182 Kawasaki Ruins, Outskirts of the Imperial Capital Tokyo, Fuso Daytime - Inversal Rain

Meanwhile… somewhere within the Old World Ruins of Kawasaki where the building's remains are indeed from the modern era but has left in a state of disrepair ever since the Chimera's relentless destruction that befell the world's civilization 150 years ago. The streets were somewhat overgrown by nature but not much but the entire ruins was a mess. Rats scurrying within the abandoned convenience store as they wandered in groups, crows cackling as they flew in flocks. As for the buildings themselves, like those that are three-story buildings or higher. Most were destroyed in pieces or still survived to this day. But of course, this was indeed the ruins of the Old World. However… a sound of thunder roars through the skies as the Inversal Rain was still ongoing. But that's not all… the Old World Ruins are also the home to the lurking Chimeras that made it their territory, those who are foolish to step in their den. However, an execution is about to occur here. The red-haired man with short ponytail who wore samurai armor was seen carrying the body of an alive person. The victim had long silver hair and red eyes as he was brutally beaten up and bruised harshly. What only awaits him was that tall young woman with long red hair that reaches down all the way to her legs, crimson red eyes, black sleek armor and boots, red regal cape blown elegantly during the low winds in the rain, and sun-like spikes on her left shoulder pads to show her radiance… in a intimating way. Next to the woman was a man with white hair slicked back upwards and a stern face as he wore his kimono with his samurai armor covering it, protected by a white and purple jinbaori. His armor features black colors with details in white. There, the ponytailed man tosses an alive victim on the ground as he gasps and coughs, he gets up with his legs kneeled on the floor to find out where he is.

"My forces… defeated… how…? If it weren't for your ruthless meddling, I would've not- H-Huh…!?" The silver-haired man noticed to see of who's in front of him… his eyes were locked onto her sinister gaze. As if she was releasing such a dangerous aura around her that strikes fear onto her enemies. "T-The Demon King of the Sixth Heaven of Owari…! Oda Nobunaga…!"

Background Music | Persona 3 Reload OST - That Which Escaped From Darkness

"Then I won't need to repeat myself. I can commend you for knowing of my title. Do you understand why you're here? Descendant of the Nagamasa?" Oda asked a question with a cold tone as the young man grit his teeth.

"To see me executed, is it not? I have long rebelled against your ridiculous rule. Your sense of justice is corrupt… and I will not yield! The Nagamasa Clan… will not fall!" The young man declared with such resilience as the ponytailed man grits his teeth.

"Boss… can I kill this guy already?" The ponytailed man requested as the woman stopped him.

"No… I will handle this myself." Oda said as she summons her rifle in her hand as she puts the rifle's barrel very close to his forehead. "As for you, Saburo Nagamasa. No wonder why you and Azai share the same common sense. Let me tell you this… Azai is a foolish man, a so-called brother-in-law who intends to wed my dear sister Oichi. Then led his stupid little rebellion in order to bring me down. Of course, he met his end by the hands of my forces and turned your ancestor's skull into my personal wine holder. Those were those times…"

Oda had a smile as she was willing to pull the trigger onto his head in order to bring down the Nagamasa clan entirely. The young man named Saburo Nagamasa knew that he was going to die here and lose everything he had bolstered… his forces, his land he had conquered, everything. But the moment he challenged the Oda Clan, this was his greatest mistake. Crossing with the Demon King would mean death.

"So… what are you waiting for… Kill me with honor! You expect to shoot me with that rifle, do you!?" Saburo exclaimed as Oda's smile died down as she aimed her rifle where it should be… his crotch…

[BANG!]

"AAAAGH! ARRRRRGH!" Saburo screamed in pain as he tried not to let out as loudly as he could in order to withstand it but the pain was too great after the shot was fired.

"Wahahahaha!~ Don't be so sure, Saburo Nagamasa! I wouldn't be killing you with my rifle. But, as I did with your poor ancestor Azai… I wouldn't mind turning your skull into my new wine holder." Oda then summons her elegant jet-black katana on her right hand. She readies herself to decapitate him. "As long as I live, I will finally unify this dying country once more once I take over your land… and so will the others, too. Remember my name, worship it, fear it, revere it! I am Oda Nobunaga, the Demon King of the Six Heaven! The Warlord of Owari! Now then… Do you have any last words?"

"Heh… Go to hell…" Saburo then looks up as he spits on her armor. Oda wasn't too impressed as she decided to take his life personally…

Background Music End

[SLICE! PSHHHHHHHHH!]

With just one clean cut on his neck… Saburo's head came off as he was decapitated as a result as blood started spraying out violently as it stained on her face during the Inversal Rain. As Saburo's headless corpse falls to the ground… She picks up his head and looks at it with a smile on her face.

"Fantastic… This will surely strike fear into my opponents should they face me recklessly." Oda then continued. "Akechi… What's the situation between the Takeda and the Uesugi Clan northwest?"

"My Lord… There is none so far but… there has been developments as of recently thanks to our soldier's scouting." Oda's advisor named Akechi continued. "A new clan was formed… well, a small one to be exact. It was said to be detached from the Takeda clan and wants nothing to do with them or the Uesugi clan."

"Really now? And what clan are they calling themselves, then?" Oda asks as she continues to stare at the lifeless head of Saburo.

"Yoshinaka Clan. And its leader is Kiso no Yoshinaka along with his wife Tomoe Gozen… So far, they don't seem to be interested in conquering lands." Akechi informs her of this development as she doesn't care about them as she turns around and makes her leave.

"If their intention is to not get involved then so be it. Akechi, Mori… Return to Azuchi. I'll pay a visit to my contracted Master to see how he's holding up. Governing such an Imperial Capital of Tokyo is no easy feat. I might as well present this head to him to see if it'll scare him. So get going. And make sure you keep track of Hideyoshi, he's been aberrant as of late…" Oda commands the two as they bow in command. The two enter their Spirit Forms in order to make their way back.

As for Oda Nobunaga herself, she decided to walk her way there where the tall walls were seen where the Imperial Capital is located in order to keep the Chimeras out. Knowing that the magical beasts would arrive soon, but letting them eat the headless corpse would serve as a distraction to allow her to make her leave. The nation of Fuso… locked in a civil war, rages on…

Kingdom of Camelot Daytime - Clear Sky

Background Music | Persona 3 Reload OST - Troubled

Meanwhile back in the Round Table in the Kingdom of Camelot within the castle. Wol and Jeanne were called by Chloe to join their meeting to discuss what has happened since last night. Every member was invited here to take part in the talks as Chloe was in her seat with Percival sitting next to his Master. Mordred, Gawain, Lancelot, Tristan, Bedivere, Agravain, and Artoria were present. So do the Masters such as Aren and Moza. Both of them never even heard of Wol for the first time but the meeting… was rather tense.

"So… Mind explaining to me about this new guy here?" Moza asked as his eyes shifted to Wol and Jeanne who were standing there.

"You're talking to our esteemed visitor. The one Our Majesty has mentioned before. He is none other than Wol and his Servant Seeker, Jeanne d'Arc." Chloe introduced the two to them as Aren crossed his arms.

"Honestly, I never heard of them. Are these two like important people or something?" Aren said cluelessly.

"You might want to see his Command Seal if I were you." Mordred spoke as Moza and Aren looked at Wol's Command Seal as the color was golden much to their surprise.

"Well, I'll be damned! Guess he has that Golden Command Seal after all." Moza whistled in surprise.

"Ahem… I'd like to have this meeting right away now that I have called all of you here. As well as Lady Chloe's request to bring in our esteemed visitor." Artoria continued. "Now then… what happened last night, exactly?"

"Understood. As of last night… Ramza requested us for assistance in reconnaissance at the Losaria Forests to check for any potential threats. But as soon as we arrived… Ramza tried to assassinate me but it was thanks to Jeanne who protected me. I can confirm to you all that Ramza Kinich Bazlage is the mole." Chloe continued. "He has been attempting to gain crucial intel in every meeting in order to report to his superiors in order to bring Camelot down."

"Huh? Are you serious?" Moza continues. "No wonder why he didn't come back last night…"

"There's gotta be more to this, Chloe… right?" Aren asked as she nodded.

"There is. We even encountered Shirou Emiya himself, who killed Ramza." Chloe said as this shocked everyone as if they all knew the name. Artoria didn't react but knew that he's still out there.

"L-Lord Shirou?" Bedivere asked in shock. "So he's still alive then. Lady Chloe, were you able to convince him to return?"

"I tried to but he refused." Chloe sighed. "Lord Shirou had told me that he had his own wars to fight in order to weaken the Saxon forces."

"As expected of much from my Master… Shirou will do anything to help himself to bring down the enemies for me but… he's giving us enough time in order to wage war on our enemies." Artoria spoke as Moza then spoke up as he had a small grin on his face.

"So, does that mean we'll be finally going to the battlefields now? I can't wait to shoot up some Saxons." Moza asked as she shook her head.

"Not yet. In two days… In two days, I will officially declare war against my half-sister and the Saxons. Which means we'll have to bolster our men and train them in order to prepare for this moment. The forces from Roma have agreed to assist us with their war vehicles that they have. As for Frankia, it seems the Queen has contacted me that they will not be participating in the war since she's more interested in the Avalon Festival itself." Artoria explained the whole situation and her plans on what will happen next but…

"Your Majesty. What of those Twelve Paladins of Charlemagne. As far as I know, they're willing to get involved if you could talk to Sir Charlemagne personally." Lancelot suggested the idea as Artoria then nodded in approval.

"Not a bad idea. Thank you, Sir Lancelot of the Lake." Artoria thanked him as he lightly bows in response. "As for you, Wol, is it? If this is your new name from now on, then I will call you as such. As well as Jeanne d'Arc. Are you willing to assist us in our upcoming war?"

"We will, Your Majesty. I want to help you all in winning this battle. I'm sure Jeanne would agree as well." Wol said as Jeanne would place her hand to her chest.

"As my Master said, as a Saint and a Flagbearer myself. I'm willing to assist your troops if you can allow me to rally them." Jeanne said as the King herself would respond.

"Then by all means. However, if you certainly wish to improve your strength. The Atlas Academy Institute has a training simulator if I recall. They also use Old World technology that has been restored to this day. I'll have Bedivere escort you there so they'll understand your status." Artoria said as she looked at her steward as he lightly bows.

"As my King commands." Bedivere responded.

"Sir Percival and Lady Chloe, I'd like you two to continue training the soldiers if possible." Artoria asked the two as they complied.

"Yes, Your Majesty." Chloe and Percival respond.

"Now then, this meeting is dismissed. Still need time to prepare for what's to come. Sir Bedivere, if you please." Artoria said to her steward as he nodded.

"Understood. Now then Sir Wol and Lady Jeanne, shall we head to Atlas Academy?" Bedivere said to the two as they would agree, following Bedivere as they would leave first and Artoria left second.

"So… It has come to this. Waging war on the Saxons. Hopefully, us Knights will end Morgan's terror soon." Lancelot would speak up about the upcoming war as Mordred interjects.

"Never would I think that Mother's hatred still grows to this day. Putting this hag out of misery would be the choice to stick with. I'm sure the sunshine boy would even agree." Mordred said as Gawain responded in the most blunt way possible since both kinda get alone.

"Yes, while your behavior is brash. I can somewhat agree on your opinions against the witch herself." Gawain responded as Moza got up from his seat.

"Well either way, all more for the reason to prepare. I mean, we have our tasks before that happens so… I'll be seeing myself out in this room! Off I go!" Moza then makes his way out of the room.

"Either way, we will have to start exploring outside the kingdom… I'll be waiting outside." Tristan said calmly as he left the room. Aren and Mordred didn't speak as they also left as well. As Gawain, Gareth, and Agravain left the room… Chloe and Percival were the only two in the room.

"Lady Chloe… I believe it's time to train our troops. Shall we?" Percival said as Chloe stood up from her seat.

Background Music End

"I suppose we should. I… I just hope that we could survive this with minimal casualties. But let's be on our way. Wol and Jeanne… they're the only two who can help us bring hope and peace to the lands." Chloe said as she would leave the room as Percival would follow her soon after…

Meanwhile, with Bedivere leading both Wol and Jeanne at the Kingdom's North District where the Atlas Academy Institute is located. Of course, they were responsible for bringing back Old World technology. But the North District also bears another title, "The District of Progress". The title behind it shows that the North District feels a little advanced with the Old World tech usage such as holographic posters plastered on the walls. Wol stopped for a second and looked at it showcasing what appears to be a recruitment poster, while it looks propaganda as it seems, but it has proved that some people made their decision to become the Knight of Camelot's military in some cases. However, he hurried on his way to catch up with the two. As soon as they made their way a bit upwards in the North District, the three finally made it to the location where they needed to be. The build appears to be completely modern but more in line to the Camelot-styled architecture. Of course, there was a sign next to them as Wol looked to his right. The place was indeed the Atlas Academy Institute.

Background Music | Persona 3 Reload OST - Changing Seasons

"I can tell this is your first time here." Bedivere said to the two as Wol and Jeanne looked back at the knight.

"It certainly is. Considering how this Atlas is known for bringing this Old World technology to life. I don't know anything about it or what the Old World is like…" Jeanne said as she seemed uncertain of what it was like before.

"Me neither." Wol added.

"Ahaha. Rest assured, you two. There is no need to dwell in the past. For now, let's proceed with meeting up with Lady Sion. She's usually busy in the research and development branch within the building but rest assured, the young prodigy will lend us a training simulator there. So please, follow me." Bedivere said as the three would make their way inside of the building.

Here within the main floor where it appears to be the reception area was a young blonde woman whose hair is tied up in a bun upwards and wore wireframe glasses as she was doing her job at the monitor, typing on the keyboard. Of course, there are indeed people working here as they simply do their everyday life from research, studies, and other things here at Atlas. As the three approaches to the receptionist lady who was typing on her keyboard to keep herself busy. But she stopped for a moment and looked at Bedivere.

"O-Oh! Sir Bedivere, a great honor to meet you. Are you here for training at Sion's combat simulator?" The receptionist asked him as he shook her head.

"There is no need for me, thanks. In fact, I have brought these two here with me. King Artoria's esteemed visitors. Wol and Jeanne d'Arc respectively." Bedivere introduced her to the two of them as he continued. "As I said before, I am tasked to help bring the two to the combat simulator so Sir Wol here can help improve his combat efficiency. As for Jeanne, she's well-experienced and can handle things against the Chimeras easily."

"Hmm… I see. Very well, then. I wouldn't mind allowing the two to borrow the simulator. But as of currently… Sion is busy since her schedule is tight so I'm unsure if she'll be available at the moment till further notice-" The receptionist was interrupted as someone spoke in.

"There is no need. I've freed up my schedule so I can meet this particular person myself." The voice of a young girl whose tone was calm, collected, and serious. She had a light lavender-purplish braided hair that reached down to her hips as she wore a purple dress as well as a purple beret. Her silver eyes meet Wol as both him and Jeanne meet her face to face. "I humbly welcome you to the Atlas Academy Institute. My name is Sion Eltnam Sokaris, as you can see. I, too, bear the Command Seal and my Servant is Leonardo di Vinci. Unfortunately, she isn't with me as she has decided to remain back at her home in Roma's Venice."

"So you know who we are?" Wol asked her as she nodded.

"The Viator- or rather… Wol as your current name. And the Server beside you is Seeker, Jeanne d'Arc. Am I correct?" Sion asked as Jeanne nodded.

"That you are, Miss Sion." Jeanne continued. "We're here to borrow your combat simulator as Sir Bedivere has mentioned before."

"Do not worry. I heard you loud and clear. To help hone Wol's skills as a warrior. Suffice to say… the Kingdom of Camelot is truly indeed preparing to wage war against the Saxons as well as Morgan le Fay herself. I'm only aware that the Empire of Roma is also taking part in it. And potentially the Twelve Paladins of Charlemagne." Sion continued. "But if you wish to borrow my simulator, it is free to use but I will handle the adjustments and configuration as it is my technology alone. It's at the first bottom floor where we conduct simulation tests. Bedivere, would you be so kind as to accompany me? I'd like to see their skills on the test."

"As much as I want to accompany you, I cannot. I must return to my King and remain with her at times. Her plans in waging war will require my assistance. I'm sorry that I come with bad news." Bedivere said with slight disappointment as Sion simply sighed.

"That is fine… Be on your way, then. As for you two, please follow me." Sion asked the two as they would follow her to the left side where the elevator should be.

The three entered inside the elevator as she would handle pressing the button as Sion went for the button that would lead them to BF1. Meaning Bottom Floor 1. Wol and Jeanne held on as they felt a little movement as it would proceed going down. As soon as they already felt a halt as they were at the exact floor they needed to be. The elevator door opens up… revealing to be a long white hallway of an underground corridor. Yet, the style felt different as everything here seems to be high tech. There were no windows at all, all it's left was pure white and bright lights on the ceiling. For some reason, it hurt Wol's eyes the first time here but his vision did soon adjust to help get used to it. However, there was a door up ahead but next to it appears to be a retina face scanner. Sion acted normally as she would try to reach it but… She had her toes tipped up as she tried to reach it. Of course, she has the body of a child so she wouldn't reach it. This simply annoyed her with an annoyance on her face.

"I… I need a small lift…" Sion said quietly as the two were confused.

"C-Come again?" Jeanne asked.

"I-I said I need a lift. Hold my body up while I have my face scanned next to the door… please?" Sion said as she blushed with slight embarrassment.

"You do it." Wol said to Jeanne as she simply sighed as a response. She would not hesitate doing so as she would hold Sion's side torso up as her face was close to the scanner as it proceeded to work as intended. After a good scan, the screen flashes green as it signals approval.

"Vice-Director Sion Eltnam Sokaris, access granted." The feminine voice on the scanner spoke as the white doors automatically opened. There, the whole area reveals itself to be a master control system of the combat simulator where there is no one around. Or rather… This also acts as Sion's personal room and office at the same time. For some reason, she prefers it here.

Background Music End

"So this is the training simulator?" Jeanne asked as the three entered inside.

"Only the control area. Outside of that window is the real deal. This is where we help conduct tests to simulate and replicate anything from locations, enemies, and even a recreation of the past. In other words, the remnants of the Old World." Sion explained how the combat simulator works but her eyes glared at someone else. "And mind if I remind you that I need my permission to use the simulator? Or are you simply being a nuisance."

"Ease yourself, Sokaris. I'm simply inspecting how this new firmware update on your simulator works. I must say, you're still as talented as ever." The voice of a mature woman spoke when she got up from her seat.

Background Music | Persona 3 Reload OST - This Mysterious Feeling

A twenty-six year old woman, a femme fatale who possesses a clever-looking beautiful face, and snow gray hair tied into a ponytail. But for some reason… Wol and Jeanne can sense something awful about this woman… it reeks of blood, gore, and a stench of death. Yet, a darkness follows her wherever it goes. She then grabs out her perfume and sprays it on herself to get rid of it much to their confusion. Her olive-greenish eyes meet with Wol for the first time.

"Well now, I never knew you'd be bringing in guests here today." The woman said to her.

"Of course I did. They're only here for training before the preparation against the Saxons." Sion continued as she turned around to talk to the two. "I bring sincere apologies. This must be your first time meeting her. I'd like you to introduce one of Atlas Academy Institute's known instructors who teaches the Department of Witchery, Celenike Icecolle. I suggest that you should be on your best behavior with her if I were you…"

"As she said. Once again, I am Celenike. I am an instructor who teaches the Department of Witchery, as well as a renowned magus myself. I've dabbled in Witchcraft and dark curses before as I do. But you…~" Celenike then approaches Wol as she proceeds to do a two-finger gesture as she checks his pulse under his chin, then to the side of his left neck upon inspection of a human body. "Ufufufu…~ You are certainly a special case, that's for sure."

"Whatever you're doing, I suggest you don't touch my Master, thank you…" Jeanne lowly growled in a defensive tone as this somewhat motivates the witch herself.

"Now now, little girl. You better watch your mouth otherwise…" Celenike then grabs out a black whip as she grabs the end of it as it makes a snapping noise as if she had a smirk. "You're in for a rude awakening.~"

While Jeanne was trying to remain defensive… Wol wanted to ask her something… Within his mind, he wanted to say something to her…

[Jeanne, calm down.] | -[Please whip me.]-

Of course… he had to choose the most random choice possible. Celenike took notice of Wol with curiosity.

"Oh?~ Do you really want to get whipped pretty badly?~ Just so you know, it's going to get real rowdy when I start doing the punishment myself.~" Celenike said with her tongue licking over her lips with curiosity and excitement.

Jeanne lowers her guard and looks back at Wol, shaking her head in disapproval over Wol's inappropriate choice. But what more could be said in the end? Sion would also shake her head to show disappointment towards him as well. Perhaps he's better off avoiding these possible choices in his mind next time. As Sion clears her throat to catch their attention…

"Ahem… Instructor Celenike… I suggest you cease with the threats and tease. But again… I should introduce the two of you to them. Wol and Seeker… or Jeanne d'Arc if you prefer." Sion said as Celenike had a shocked look on her face and yet, confused.

"Seeker?" Celenike continued. "Now that's a Class I have not heard of, that's for sure. But this young man named Wol… I'm certainly interested in him. Deeply interested in him.~"

"Enough of this… Aren't you supposed to be grading your student's exam work?" Sion glared at her as the witchcrafter sighed as she placed her right hand lightly to her head.

"I did that ten minutes ago… And the test papers I've reviewed regarding their answers are awfully abysmal… I already know that they're going to fail their test and be forced to try again…" Celenike then continued as she lowered her hand and looked at the three. "But speaking of tests… perhaps it'd be wise if I have my Servant put against both Wol and Miss Jeanne."

"Hmm… Considering how the odds of a normal human being trying to fight against a Servant is ridiculously low. But since he has a Servant with him. That odds might have a slight chance of increasing his survival against it. And astute idea, Instructor Celenike. Perhaps this would provide valuable data to see how Wol and Jeanne are capable of combat." Sion continued as she looked back at the two. "Wol, are you familiar with the terminology called the Master-Servant Relationship?"

"Can't say I have…" Wol replied.

"Very well. I'll explain to you briefly as possible so listen well. The Master-Servant Relationship is crucial to you and her. As teamwork is important when it comes to synergizing between the combat flow. One must understand the concept of synergy and maintain the balance between the two of you. As long as both of you have coordination, both of your cooperative efficiency will certainly increase. As for your opponent…

"It's me!~" The voice of a gleeful feminine voice spoke as the exited the simulation room. An androgynous-looking pink-haired boy who is fancily dressed. Beautiful beyond all comparison. He wore an armor that consists of black underclothes that end in a dress and stockings with greaves, gauntlets, and hip guards with a central red strike and golden accents on top. He also wears black bows on either side of his head and a cape that's white on the outside and red on the inside with a white fuzzy collar. "The one and only Astolfo, at your service!~ Oh? Miss Sion? Miss Celenike? Who are these two?"

"Your opponents for today." Sion spoke plainly as it caught her off-guard in such an unexpected reveal.

"Y-You're serious, right? I just finished training fighting some Chimeras but these two? I wouldn't mind though… who are they?" The boyish-looking person named Astolfo asked.

"Wol and Jeanne d'Arc respectively. Here on behalf of King Artoria's request to use my simulator to train." Sion added as Celenike continued to watch.

"Wol, huh. And Jeanne? Is that really you, Jeanne?~ Ahaha!~ We really gotta stop meeting each other like this. First in Trifas, Fuyuki, Kyoto, and now here? Fates such as this really do bring us, after all. Oh! I couldn't forget the times of you and I adventuring together with the other Servants, too!" Astolfo was somewhat ecstatic to meet Jeanne again much to Wol's confusion.

" Do Astolfo and Jeanne know each other? What's going on?" Wol said to himself within his mind. But for Jeanne… she slightly tilted her head.

"U-Umm… I'm sorry? I believe this is the first time we met. I'm confused about how we met each other but… I sincerely apologize for breaking it to you that I have no recollections of meeting you before." A confused Jeanne responded as Astolfo simply laughed it off as if he understands it.

"Ahaha!~ No worries, no worries! I totally get it! You're a different Jeanne from what I know. I just happen to remember everything for some reason but who cares!~ Allow me to introduce myself properly." Astolfo then gracefully bows. "Bonjour and good day! I am Astolfo of the Twelve Paladins of Charlemagne!~ Hailing from the Kingdom of Frankia. It's a pleasure to meet you two!~"

"Likewise, Sir Astolfo." Jeanne said as the young paladin approached her.

"Non, non, non!~ You can drop the 'sir', Jeanny!~ Just call me Astolfo and we're totally cool with it!~" Astolfo then looked at Wol. "And you must be Wol, right?"

Wol was about to speak but Astolfo took his hand and shook it as he was completely confused of how friendly he is.

"Then it's a pleasure to meet you as well!~" Astolfo responded with such excitement as Celenike sighed.

"Astolfo… while it's nice seeing you meeting these two. But aren't you forgetting something in particular?" Celenike asked him as he realized about it.

"Ooooh!~ That's right, you're supposed to be my opponent, are you?" Astolfo asked. "Then if so, then I'd like to try fighting against you two. Don't worry, I'll totally go easy on you one-hundred percent!~"

"I detest it." Sion interjected. "When I say that I wish to see the combat test between Wol and Jeanne d'Arc against Astolfo. I expect you to go all out. But any usage in unleashing Noble Phantasms is strictly forbidden. Am I clear, Astolfo?"

"R-Right! I promise not to go overboard like the last time.~" Astolfo complies as Sion sighed as she goes to her seat where the computer systems are.

"Now then, you three head inside the simulator. I'll run some diagnostics tests and proceed with some set-up. It'll take a minute but make sure you are well-prepared for anything." Sion asked the three as they would proceed to do so.

"Master… Are you prepared for this?" Jeanne asked her Master as he nodded.

"I am… I think?" Wol said with some uncertainty but must muster up some courage in order to get with their training underway.

"Rest assured, as long as I'm with you. We'll prevail regardless of the obstacles." Jeanne reassures him in order to fill him with confidence as he nodded.

As they were inside the large training simulator where the area was quite large, allowing free-form combat as the surface, walls, and ceilings were grids since the color inside was ocean blue with white lines. Celenike was there to assist Sion as she was typing on the master controls as she proceeded to input the set of keys, commands, and coding.

"Alright… everything is set. Starting simulation now." Sion then presses the Enter key as the training simulator begins to change around them as the area suddenly turns into something different, they find themselves in a grassy plains with hilltops from afar with blue skies and clouds slowly moving through the sky. Sion was simply looking through the window as everything is only a simulation. She grabs the mic and speaks through it.

"Alright, I'll be brief." Sion continued. "Today's combat test will involve you fighting against your opponent Astolfo, he intends to go all out and will stop at nothing to defeat you. Rest assured, I will not have any enemies that will stand in your way nor will it assist the paladin. The data I strive to record is very crucial as part of my research."

"Research?" Wol asked.

"Exactly. Based on your descriptions, you have shown great potential. I simply wish that you use the best of your abilities to overcome this trial." Sion said as Celenike only snickered.

"It's best if you don't suffer too much. Otherwise, you'll be putting yourself at a disadvantage." Celenike added as Sion glared back at her.

Background Music | Persona 3 Reload OST - Don't

"Ahem… With that out of the way. Let the battle commence." Sion announced as Wol and Jeanne drew out their respective weapons as Astolfo did the same.

"So we're doing this? Like, actually doing this?" Astolfo continued. "Well, I wouldn't mind so hey! Feel free to come at me!~"

"Wol, follow my lead!" Jeanne exclaimed as he nodded as the two would run at him with such synchronization.

Astolfo only prepared himself of what's happening. Jeanne went first in battle by thrusting her flag pole directly at her as she had minimal time to dodge to her right but noticed Wol reading his Blade of Thought to swing to the right side where it was within his melee range. He blocks the incoming attack with his sword and shoves it away and tries to land an attack.

[CLANG! CLANG! TWANG! CLING! BWANG!]

The sounds of steel clashed one after another as Wol and Jeanne were on the offensive as they took turns on attacking their opponent as Astolfo was forced to defend himself against their attack from left to right. Then, Wol then goes for an overhead attack the moment he swings it down… Astolfo tosses his sword away as he summons his white lance, the Trap of Argalia at his disposal. He quickly takes a step back and tries to catch his breath.

"Sion! It's not fair! I need some backup or something! I can't even take two of them at once." Astolfo cried as he wasn't a fan of being attacked by the two of them. Sion's voice spoke out of nowhere since it was the simulator.

"Alright, fine. I'll do it just once." Sion said as she began typing away before pressing enter. Suddenly, a group of Camelot Knights suddenly materialized the moment they stood with Astolfo and drew their weapons. Of course, the knights are simply data. "Considering how both Wol and Jeanne's synergy are showing signs of increasing… I might as well up the ante. Let's see how you deal with the knights surrounding you.

"Now that's much better… go get 'em!~" Astolfo commanded the knights as they rushed towards them.

"Master, I'll handle the rest as you do the same." Jeanne asked as he nodded without speaking. He then readied his blade as the floating fragments that make into a weapon began to respond the moment he unleashes it.

"Blade… scatter!" Wol then swung his weapon as the piece of blades began to create a whirling shrapnel that was rotating at such a speed as it proceeds to clear out about five knights who were within the whirlwind's range as it shreds them apart into bits and pieces before dissolving into particles of data. The fragments then return back to the sword to form a blade once again as he turned around to look at Jeanne, who was trying to hold on her own against another group of knights.

"While Jeanny is busy… Why not have a go against each other?~ I can tell you've fought a Servant before, have you?" Astolfo asked.

"I did." Wol continued. "But it didn't go too well for me."

"Good thing you didn't get killed so that's a plus.~ With that out of the way… Show me whatcha got!~" Astolfo exclaimed with excitement as Wol didn't return with a smile as the two would clash each other between a floating fragmented blade and a white lance.

[CLANG! SWOOSH! CLING! TWANG! FWOOOOOOOSH! TIIIING!]

A rush of combat flowing between two different weapons clashed with each other with each swing by both Wol and Astolfo was certainly relentless. But Astolfo being a Servant had some advantages as they're capable of overpowering a normal human who has the skill of a warrior. But for Wol, he was different. His skills were definitely on par with some Heroic Spirits. But what he lacked was one thing: Noble Phantasms. His Blade of Thought is a mysterious case, its latent potential has yet to awaken. At least not yet or later down the line. For now, all Wol can do is to overcome and win a battle against Astolfo, the Heroic Spirit himself. He maintained his composure as much as he can as keeps up his momentum. As his blade clashed with Astolfo's lance as he attempted to add the pressure. Wol noticed that two of the knights that Sion had created were going after him. So, he pushed him away and decided to quickly deal with them first.

[SLASH!]

With just a swing from his weapon. The knights were horizontally cut in half as they dissolved into pixels of data. As more knights came by as Astolfo watched, he felt confident in his skills as he would proceed to deal with the lesser enemies first before dealing with a Servant last. He parried an incoming attack from his left and thrusted his blade right directly into the helmet before dissolving. Wol then twisted the blade to the side as he would force it out and cleave the remaining three knights with ease. He wasn't aware that he was improving somehow but he didn't mind. All he cares about in his mind is defeating Astolfo and be done with it. Jeanne is somehow holding on her own and knows she can handle it with no problem at all. He looks back at Astolfo as he was simply having her lance stuck on the ground as he was casually leaning next to it.

"I gotta say, Wol. You really do seem to be quite good at fighting. Say, Would you be interested in joining the paladins? Charlie would be interested to take you in and give you the best Noble Phantasms that the Kingdom of Frankia has to offer.~" Astolfo offered him a chance to join but…

"I'm afraid I'll have to decline." Wol continued. "Right now, I'll defeat you in order to prove my strength."

"Aww man… At least I tried- H-Hey!" Astolfo noticed as he stepped away from an incoming thrust attack which Wol followed up with a left horizontal 360 swing before clashing blades again. "Can you at least let me finish!?"

"Master!" Jeanne called after she dealt with the last knight on her own. "I'm coming to help!"

Background End

"That's enough." Sion announced as the simulation finally ended. All three lowered their weapon upon hearing it as the whole area dissolves and reverts back to normal.

Background Music | Persona 3 Reload OST - Iwatodai Dorm

"Huh? Already?" Astolfo continued in a confused expression.

"I've already gathered enough data on all of your combat proficiency. Wol, as much as you want to defeat that Paladin. I only simply require you to fight. And with it, I'm overall pleased with this data I have gathered. Please return back to the control room." Sion said as Wol sighed as he hid his weapon away out of thin air. Jeanne arrived with him and looked at her Master.

"I know you want to prove yourself but don't push yourself. We have enough time before the war against the enemy." Jeanne informed him as he seemingly nodded.

With the three returning back to the throne room. Sion was seen on her tablet to review the data provided from the recent simulation test she had observed. Celenike was seen with her arms crossed as she was with the prodigy genius. Of course, Astolfo was humming and skipping to the beat as he was rather happy with the after-results with the simulation training. Wol and Jeanne only stood there as Sion looked at the three.

"Suffice to say… you have potential. At least in some sense. It's quite a surprise that you'd be the only person here in this continent to face a Servant like Morgan. While your skills and strength are exemplary, yes. But don't let it go to your head. The Witch isn't an easy enemy to defeat just because she is a Servant, her ability is beyond comprehension. So do try to tread very carefully. If you're not careful, those mistakes will lead you to your death. Do you understand?" Sion said to him as the Viator nodded.

"Right. I'll be careful." Wol responded.

"Good. I suppose that'll conclude today's simulation training. If you feel like your skills have not honed, do feel free to come to this building again. I may be busy when it comes to my tight schedules. Therefore, I will provide you a special pass specifically designed to enter the simulation room exclusively. My assistant Brid will handle this matter the next time you see her." Sion then approaches him as she gives him a special card pass as he takes it and stows it away.

"This seems like a good idea, Wol. With this pass, we can visit this room at any time. But don't push yourself too much." Jeanne said to him as Astolfo would stretch his arms in order to feel relaxed.

"Welp, I'm tired. Thanks for the training, though! I'll be leaving this room and exploring what Camelot has to offer. Bye bye!~" Astolfo waved his hands at them as he would leave this room in the process.

"We should do the same. Why not leave and head back home. Resting is very crucial for your well-being. But don't worry, I'll try to cook something that will satisfy you." Jeanne nodded as both Wol and his Servant would leave in the process. Now only leaving to just two.

Background Music End

"So, Sion… this war that King Artoria has talked about…" Celenike continued with her arms crossed. "You think this whole kingdom is confident enough to stop the Saxon's reign of terror?"

"I'm almost certain. While Camelot does not have any forms of modern weaponry like vehicles from the Old World. But the Empire of Roma does. Having to ask them for our help would help increase our chances of victory. Meanwhile, The Kingdom of Frankia has refused to help and prefers not to involve themselves. The Paladins of Charlemagne have volunteered themselves to assist us in eliminating Morgan le Fay. Considering their history with her." Sion explained the whole ordeal as Celenike would try to grab out a cigarette to have a smoke but… "And no smoking in the simulation control room."

"Tch. You're no fun." Celenike continued with a light scowl. "But again, Camelot's future… it all depends on that kid… Wol, the Viator. Enigmatic as he may be, but the prophecy has promised that he will restore peace and order to the lands in the Arvess Continent."

"Indeed, Celenike… We will see if he is able to fulfill it." Sion said with her eyes closed in agreement. And of course… the time of war is ever getting closer.

[TO BE CONTINUED…]

Author's Notes: Thank you for reading this chapter. I know it took a little but long but rest assured, I got it finished including the teaser of what's going on in the nation of Fuso. The first arc is nearing its end as the war between the Arvess Alliance (Camelot and Roma) versus the Saxon forces and Morgan le Fay. Even though the Avalon Festival is getting close, Wol and Jeanne are getting involved in the battlefield. Right now, this website is having a serious issue right now where the Doc Manager isn't accepting my story file that is an ODT (which ALL of my chapters and stories I created are downloaded/compiled as a odt file). I can guess it's an error but I seriously hope the FanFiction team can fix this now that I uploaded this as a Microsoft Word file. This is dreadfully unacceptable. Until then, peace out.

-[The Glossary]-

[Sion Eltnam Sokaris - Character]

Servant: Leonardo di Vinci

Description: The Master of the Caster Archetype, Leonardo di Vinci. She is one of Atlas Academy Institute's known staff members who is renownedly respected by her peers due to her age and high-level intelligence. While Sion is considered a prodigy, she is proficient in combat through the use of her Etherlight and Old World firearms such as the M1911 Pistol. A workaholic at heart, she thrives for the knowledge of data she seeks by any means necessary.

[Celenike Icecolle - Character]

Description: One of Atlas' many instructors who teaches students in the Witchcraft Department and is a highly-skilled Dark Arts-magecraft user who specializes on curses. She has a knack of examining human corpses and experimenting with them at her own discretion. Both her and Sion somewhat get along but they keep it to themselves.

[Training Simulator Clearance Pass - Item]

Description: A card pass designed by Sion herself. The item holds exclusive access to the training simulator within the institute. It's best that you keep it with you at all times.