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Fate/birthscion Genesis -beginnings-
Act III - Midsummer Knight's Dream
Summary: Wol and Jeanne finally earned themselves some respite after a long day. As Jeanne suggests checking out the bustling outdoor market place in the West District's commercial area, a certain Queen catches their interest. However, with Artoria away, someone comes into play…
Arglwyddes Unknown - Unknown
Background Music | Persona 3 Reload OST - Aria of the Soul
As he was sleeping through the night after a long day. The Viator… or now called Wol as his new name was resting on something… something soft. He couldn't help but to open his eyes where he looked at a gray blank sky. He lifts his body in order to look around his surroundings. He somehow finds himself here in this mysterious place. Everything is consumed under a fog except in one location… a large pristine lake with trees everywhere. He turned back to find an endless patch of grass, only obscured by the fog, as well. He looked back at the lake again as he was seemingly confused. He should be sleeping but… Why is he here?
"Hello!?" Wol shouted. "Anyone!?"
There was nothing… no response. It was silent.
"Jeanne!?" Wol shouted again but this time to call out for his Servant Seeker. "Nothing…"
He was indeed dreaming… or so he thought. He already got the feeling that he was whisked away into some strange place that involves a lake of all places. He ponders as he tries to figure out how he got here. But again, he was out of options. He couldn't seem to wake up from this supposed dream. That is until someone spoke.
"Oh? Has someone whom I do not know, stumbled upon my domain?" The voice of a woman spoke out of nowhere as he looked around to find out who said it.
But no one was there. However, he noticed to see the lake as the surface ripples as it proceeds to rise and morph into a figure of a person. However, the watery figure begins to change into a person upon completion where she has fully revealed itself. Her hair was black, yet deep, flowing straight down her back and framing her face with blunt bangs that highlight her piercing golden eyes and fair complexion. She is adorned in her complex, layered gown that appears to be high fantasy in some aspect of a white dress.
"I see… So you're the one." The figure continues. "You must be the one called the Viator, am I correct?"
"Yes…" Wol continued. "But I am called Wol under my new name now."
"Wol… Interesting. But regardless, I believe that this happens to be our first time meeting you in a quiet and yet, dreary place such as this. Please, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Vivian, and I humbly welcome you to Arglwyddes." The figure known as Vivian introduces herself with a soft smile. "I have been trapped within this domain for 150 years ever since the collapse of the Old World. In other words, I was forcefully brought here against my will. As I mentioned before, this place is a plane between dream and reality, mind and matter. While it does feel lonely here, it has been my new home ever since."
"Vivian… What are you?" Wol asked.
"What am I? That's a good question. I should have talked more about myself in the first place. What I am is what you people call a 'Fairy'." Vivian continued. "In other words, I am known as the Lady of the Lake. The one who provided King Artoria Pendragon the holy sword and the sacred lance… Excalibur and Rhongomyniad. As for you, I can already assume that you were given a gaze from Artoria herself. That's why you're able to appear in my domain."
"Right… Artoria… umm… She was kind when I first met her, but I accepted her deal in helping them to defeat their enemy called the Saxons." Wol said as Vivian seemed to nod just to understand. "However, I was met with Merlin."
"Oh? The Magus of Flowers has come to visit you personally? Surely he hasn't played tricks on you, has he?" Vivian said with skepticism as if she knows Merlin.
"N-No… He told me about a mole within the Round Table that is plotting to destroy Camelot from within." Wol replied as she simply sighed and crossed her arms.
"Honestly… While that Incubus has spoken the truth with no lies. I can see the validity in his words. But never again that he would obviously continue doing his usual shenanigans as he pleases." Vivian said in such a disappointed tone.
"I'm sorry… What do you mean by that?" Wol was completely confused about it as Vivian looked back at him.
"I can tell you weren't informed. Very well, I suppose it wouldn't hurt to tell you. Merlin has some tendencies to play tricks on people and flirt with women. Kind as he may be due to his likes towards humans. I had numerous interactions with that Magus of Flowers to the point where he would try to get on my nerves, and I'd punish him for it. But again, he's obviously as crafty as ever." Vivian continued with a stern look on her face. "Wol, I ask of you, please don't ever go near that lecherous man. Even if he plays tricks on you for his amusement. That trickster will always find some form of entertainment for the sake of his leisure."
"You too, Lady of the Lake? You even wounded me also?" The familiar voice spoke out of nowhere as Wol instantly knew who this person was. Suddenly, a petal of flowers swirl around the grassy floor as it begins to gather accumulation as he finally reveals himself as none other than Merlin. "Oh? We will meet again, Wol."
"Of course you had to show up… Can't you see I'm talking to this guest of honor here?" Vivian lightly retorted in an unimpressed look on her face as if she was pouting.
"Oh, I know, I definitely understand. After all, I was the first to meet him when we met for the first time. Alongside his Servant, too." Merlin said with his usual smile on his face.
"And I assume you've already informed him about this 'mole' situation?" Vivian said as he nodded.
"Of course I did, Lady of the Lake. And he knows of the situation. I even gave him a hint, too. Ahem… aside from that. I never knew we'd meet in her domain like this. Of course, I'm the only person who can traverse between the world and here. But I guess you'd be the second person to do so by just dreaming." Merlin said as Wol doesn't seem to understand what's going on despite the task he received from the Magus of Flowers. Yet, he gets the feeling that something's missing.
"Again, Wol. Please ignore him… Aside from the task he has provided you." Vivian continued. "That reminds me, Merlin… Why not tell him about those enemies that Camelot is facing."
"The Saxons? He already knew that. Unless… Ahh, I see what you're mentioning." Merlin snaps his fingers upon his realization. "Wol, while I gave you the task to find the woman within the Round Table to assist in order to find the mole. I also must provide you with additional information regarding them so listen well… The Saxons are ruthless as they'll stop at nothing until everything is destroyed. Their leader, Kupka Dycedarg is the one behind it. And worst of all, he even formed a contract with a Servant from the north, making him a Master."
"He speaks true." Vivian continued. "I've already sensed it previously as I knew the situation would go bad. A Servant he has formed a contract with… is none other than my evil counterpart… Morgan le Fay."
"Morgan le Fay?" Wol asked as he pondered a bit.
"Artoria's half-sister." Merlin continued. "Morgan despises her alot and wishes her and Camelot to be destroyed. While I have witnessed the original history of how Camelot went down and alternative scenarios of her ruling Britain which resulted in a tragic disaster. No doubt that she desires to do it again. Just like how history repeats itself."
"Like my counterpart… she detests humanity and all of Camelot… and perhaps the entire world. Her desires are twisted and yet, she'll only continue to hurt herself without even realizing it." Vivian then begins to worry as Wol wants to ask her.
"You're worried for her…" Wol said as Vivian nodded.
"That is correct. While we don't get along. I just want to stop her from destroying herself over humanity…" Vivian continued as she maintained her serious composure. "I know I shouldn't be drowning in sadness but listen well. Morgan is ruthless like the Saxons but isn't like them. She prefers to dominate and subjugate through extreme prejudice. If you even try to fight her… you will lose. She'll kill you on the spot if you're not careful."
"I mean, she is a Servant after all." Merlin continued. "Humans aren't even capable of fighting her. But yes, as the Lady of the Lake said; Don't fight her. Actually, avoid her. You should definitely do that if I were you. You're in no state of fighting with that sword of yours alongside your Servant Seeker."
"I only hope when the time is right, Artoria will be the one to bring my counterpart down." Vivian then sensed something in the air. "Oh dear… it appears you'll be waking soon as you don't have much time left. Viator, as much as I'd like to know more about you. You must return back to reality. Remember the task you're given by both Artoria and Merlin respectively."
"I'll meet you again once you wake up. After all, you're the only person who I deem you interesting. But until then… see you soon.~" Merlin waved goodbye to Wol as streams of water wrapped around him as he was dragged and sinks into the bottomless lake to look at Vivian and Merlin one last time until his visions started to shut into darkness… waking up from this supposed dream…
Background Music End
3/8/2182 Kingdom of Camelot Morning - Clear Sky
Background Music | Persona 3 Reload OST - Tranquility
Marsche 8th of Thornesday. Wol had seemingly woken up the moment he opened his eyes… He finds himself on a nice bed as he had a good night's sleep. It was a fine morning here in Camelot as he yawned and stretched his arms. He looked around his surroundings as he was only alone in this bedroom. He then proceeds to get off the bed and exit that room and head downstairs to see what's going on. There, he finds Jeanne, who now wears a white dress as part of her casual wear as she was seen pouring tea on the cup just for the two of them as she finishes it as such. He then proceeded to take a seat at the dining table and looked at her as his Servant looked back with a kind smile.
"Good morning, Master. I hope you had a pleasant sleep yesterday. Feeling better?" Jeanne asked him as he nodded without saying. However, he looked at the tea that she poured into. "Oh, this? I read the instructions on how to brew tea so this is my first time doing it. Would you like to give it a try?"
"I'll drink it." Wol said as he grabs the handle of the cup as he proceeds to drink it for the first time. He then finishes it without problem as he places the cup back on the table.
"So, how was it? Did you like it?" Jeanne asked for an answer as Wol maintained his usual blank-looking expression as ever.
"Tastes… bland." Wol replied with disappointment. This sends Jeanne to be a little worried.
"My apologies if it wasn't to your taste. Still, it was my first time. But I'm glad that you tried it though." Jeanne said as she sat down on the seat and drank her tea before asking her Master. "Wol, there is something I wish to ask you. A request if you will."
"What's on your mind, then?" Wol said as Jeanne then spoke.
"There is one location within the West District where the outdoor market is located. It's said to be bustling, filled with people who came from Frankia, Roma, Uruk, and Sheba to sell their goods to the Camelot civilians. I'm quite curious to see what's there. So would it be okay if you want to come with me?" Jeanne wanted her Master to go together at the outdoor market in the West District where it's said to be quite populated during the daytime. With the Kingdom's size being this huge, the walk to that district would take them an hour at most. He then thought about it but, in order to understand the layout and the cultures here…
"Sure. I don't mind going there." Wol continued. "Should we leave now?"
"We could but… it's morning as of currently. Even if we go there immediately, there won't be as many people nor if the shops would be open. So I suggest that we wait for about thirty more minutes. Even though a walk could take an hour, it'll be worth it." Jeanne said as she explained the differences to how life goes in the time of day. But suddenly… they heard a knock coming from the door three times as someone proceeded to speak.
"Hellooooo? Mister Wol and Miss Jeanne? Surely you're still inside this home as of right now, no?" The familiar voice of Merlin spoke as the two did listen as they were aware.
"Well, it must be Merlin. Shall I get the door?" Jeanne asked him as he shook his head.
"Let's not." Wol replied bluntly as the knocking on the door stopped. However… Merlin would once again teleport right directly inside their house once again as the petal swirls around him as he finally appears.
"Goodness, I was simply calling out for you and you're just going to ignore me?" Merlin said in his playful tone, wondering why no one would even open the door.
"Must you always teleport on in? Do you even understand what privacy means?" Jeanne lightly pouted as Merlin simply laughed as he took a seat to have a pleasant conversation with them.
"Of course I do." Merlin continued as Jeanne somewhat glared at him in disapproval. "After all, I simply wanted to check on my favorite Viator- or rather Wol to see what's going on.~ From what I heard… You're going to visit the West District's outdoor marketplace, right? So that means you two are indeed dating!~"
"Not true!" Both Wol and Jeanne retorted in unison as they rejected that idea.
"Ahaha!~ I jest, I jest!" Merlin continued as he took a quick deep breath. "I know it's rude of me to intrude unannounced. But I couldn't help but join you two enjoying some leisure here. After all, Camelot is always a peaceful kingdom. Besides, My King has given me orders on erecting a Bounded Field to keep those beasts and that Inversal Rain away."
Background Music End
"Umm… Inversal Rain? They've mentioned it before but I don't understand what it does… aside from the raindrops going upwards instead of down." Jeanne asked the question about the strange event as Merlin was eager to explain it.
Background Music | Persona 3 Reload OST - Mystic
"The Inversal Rain is completely harmless despite the raindrops going upwards. But it does some with a catch, you see." Merlin continued to explain. "The rain itself is capable of creating illusions and hallucinations by recreating past events that came from the Old World. It's essentially like being sent back in time to rewatch these tragic events. I happened to experience it once myself when I was traveling to Frankia."
"And what is it like? What did you see?" Wol asked him as he chuckled.
"I'm glad you asked." Merlin then speaks as if he replays an event that happened previously during his travels.
"I was with a traveling caravan carrying people who lost their homes at a nearby town ravaged by Chimeras. And when I saw that exact event caused by the rain… It was playing back the events. A time when the Chimeras continued their rampage and soldiers wielding modern firearms like rifles didn't do a thing against them. The beast itself cuts them down in an instant and screams of the fallen soldiers were heard. Everyone in the caravan saw it as well. And they weren't a fan of it." Merlin had explained those events of what transpired previously when he was simply enjoying visiting new places outside of Camelot. "After all, that scene of the past took place in a ruined small town of what is now called Leicester. You can see some abandoned buildings all over this continent that were destroyed and left in ruins such as those towering skyscrapers 150 years ago. But again, nature has run its course."
"Incredible… and horrifying at the same time. If I may ask… Can hallucinations attack you? Even if they're Chimeras from 150 years back?" Jeanne asked as she wondered about it.
"Honestly, I don't know. They're simply apparitions from the past, forced to repeat the cycle of death as long as the rain exists here in the Arvess Continent." Merlin lightly sighed. "As far as I know, Arvess and Eisa are the only continents to have Inversal Rain while the Ivalice Continent does not since it's a scorching desert…"
"At least it's something to understand how it works. Don't you agree, Wol?" Jeanne asked him as he pondered.
"I wonder if the Inversal Rain could help look into my past of how I got here…" Wol said as he thinked as Merlin let off a small laugh and a shrug.
"I'd doubt about it, Viator. You simply woke up in the Gorge after falling down from the sky." Merlin continued as he decided to get up from his seat and grabbed his staff once again. "Now that some time has passed a bit. Why not check out the marketplace ourselves? After all, I'd be dying to see some fine ladies going out and about.~"
"Ahem… If I recall when I had talks with Sir Percival before. You have a tendency to be a hardcore womanizer just for your own pleasure. I'll keep my eye on you so that it won't happen." Jeanne then glared sharply at Merlin as if he was mentally pierced through his heart.
"O-Oh dear…" Merlin sweatdrops. "W-Wol, you could vouch for me, would you?"
"I don't care." Wol replied bluntly.
"A-At least you could've given me some clear context here, no?" Merlin pleaded as it would be just a simple banter between the three.
"Ahem… If you do wish to come with us. At least try to put on some behavior." Jeanne said coldly to the Magus of Flowers in a serious manner as Merlin sighed as he had no choice but to comply.
"Alright, alright. I promise I won't suddenly whisk myself away just to avoid you. But since I'm being nice here. I might as well show you some places you aren't familiar with." Merlin replied as they would take their time as usual before heading off to visit the market place…
Background Music | Persona 3 Reload OST - When the Moon Reaching Out Stars
[Morning → Daytime]
With the time passed by into the day where Merlin was leading them to the bustling outdoor street markets here in the West District. Wol and Jeanne were astonished by how lovely it was. While the West District also acts as another residential areas complete with various taverns, homes that are occupied, and stores built inside the buildings. It was more of a mix between residential and commercial. There were people selling their goods outside as the civilians were taking a glance at them. Of course, some would try to haggle to lower the prices such as expensive gems, forged weapons fresh out of the blacksmith, exquisite foods and what not. Of course, other markets do sell goods at relatively fair prices. However, the East District is known to be a relatively calm area. The West is more vibrant and busy as Merlin told them that the Adventurer's Guild was recently built at Artoria's request. And the other known tavern is called the Sleepless Dog which is considered to be the most popular ones for civilians and nobles alike. He even said that it is also Mordred's favorite tavern, too. He could overhear the group of people chatting with each other as he listened.
Aspiring Adventurer: "Are you kidding? 1500 gold for that Silver Broadsword? Can't you like uhh… lower the price?
Blacksmither: "You're joking, right? I ain't going to lower the price. Not even down to just 1000 gold. You may be a fresh adventurer, sure. But I've put my life on my work and no way in hell I ain't haggling! 1500 gold. Take it or leave it."
Aspiring Adventurer: "Ugh… Fine. I'll buy it."
A talk between two people. A blacksmither refusing to lower down the price of the shining silver sword. He couldn't understand what's going on but it's best to leave it to their own reasons.
"As you can see, the market is still lively as ever. People come and go as they want to make some money as part of their living. And one of my favorite markets I come across is the fruit shop, run by a nice friendly lady named Idunn. A beauty as she may be, but understands my status as Artoria's court mage." Merlin said as he approached the fruit stall. "Good day, Lady Idunn. Mind if I can take an apple for free?~"
"Oh certainly, you handsome rogue.~ Have a pleasant day!~" Idunn kindly waved at him as the Magus of Flowers waved at her back before looking at us.
"See. They're friendly." Merlin added.
"More like flirting with her…" Jeanne interjected about this.
"Now then, why not we continue a small little tour. After all, there are many more surprises to be seen. And I'm sure you'll get the gist of it soon enough." Merlin chuckled as the two would continue following them.
But after a certain point of time… Merlin had shown them some certain points of interest like that tavern called the Sleepless Dog. And the next location was the Adventurer's Guild. It was packed with people trying to register as adventures for those who are capable of taking on the Chimeras but that has yet to be proven. But as they continue walking… someone with a flirtatious voice and demeanor spoke to catch their attention.
"Oh yoohoo!~" The voice of a woman called for them as she gestured her hand to catch their attention. Wol, Jeanne, and Merlin looked at this particular person for the first time they have not met someone in their life. "Did my voice lure you to see my luxurious wares?~ I know you're deeply interested in them. All of these precious items and gems are from my homeland far away in the Ivalice Continent. Don't you think it looks pristine?~"
"Your Majesty… This is the fifth time you've done this…" The young man with a slightly tanned complexion as he wore small round glasses as he had white hair pulled back upwards as he wore his traditional clothing as if he belonged in the desert. However, Wol noticed to see that he has a Command Seal on his right hand. But the symbol is completely different compared to his which appears to be three beasts chasing around for the tail like a rotation.
"Oh do not worry, Master!~ I know when to handle myself but I just can't help but present our dearest customers with our finest wares!" The woman replied with glistening sparkles in her eyes.
The woman also had a dark complexion with animal-like features such as her fox-like ears that are always straightened up, dark purple hair, aquamarine eyes, and a revealing outfit and large breasts. She even has a golden lamp hung at her right hip. Though, her outfit is certainly from the deserts as well but much more regal, too. Of course… Merlin would be that type of person to be attracted by her alluring beauty as Jeanne blushed, looking away that is considered too revealing. Wol on the other hand, was unfazed by it.
"Oh, such a beautiful woman you are!~" Merlin continued with a small blush as he showed his kindness. "Yes, this is truly beyond the heavens! Beautiful woman, may I know your name?~"
"Oh, you wanna know? You really wanna know?~ Well, I suppose it wouldn't hurt to introduce myself." The beautiful woman continued with a usual smile on her face. "I am known as the Queen of Sheba. Of course, if you truly want to know my real name… It'll cost you an extra. I mean, twice the extra that is.~"
"E-Extra? I suppose I don't have the gold. But this is truly surprising for a Queen such as you to be selling your goods here in the West District." Merlin said to her. "If I may ask… what would a Queen be doing here in our humble kingdom I wonder?"
Ahaha!~ Please, call me Sheba. I'm simply adventuring with my Master here. We came to this fine Kingdom of Camelot to showcase and sell our finest items here straight from my homeland. The Kingdom of Sheba, of course.~" Sheba continued as she presented them. Jeanne decided to look the other way and decided to inspect the goods at that side as Merlin and Wol approached to see the wares she's selling.
"So these are these items from the Ivalice Continent… This is certainly interesting. And what's this? Do you even have a diamond? It appears to be quite flawless, no, perfected even." Merlin inspected the shining diamond that is in its perfect condition as Wol then looked at the wares she's selling however… his attention was brought by someone else.
"That Command Seal… You don't happen to be a Master, aren't you?" The voice of a young man spoke as Wol looked up. He seemed to mention it to him. "Yet, it looks golden instead of red… How peculiar…"
"And who are you?" Wol asked.
"A-Ahh… I bring sincere apologies. I am Ajay Lashar, Master of the Servant known as the Queen of Sheba. While she may be Classless like the rest of the Servants released all around the world. She is a Caster, no less. Of course… only Grand Servants can take the title." Ajay introduced himself. "And what of you?"
"Name's Wol." Wol replied with a simple introduction as he pondered.
"Wol… Wol… I see. Then it's a pleasure to meet you, Wol. I'd never say the light of day of meeting a Master like I am. I assume this particular man is your Servant?" Ajay then looked at Merlin as he was overhearing the conversation as he was still carrying the diamond in his hand.
"Oh, no no." Merlin chuckled. "I'm not even contracted by him. His Servant is Jeanne d'Arc, who goes by the Class of Seeker."
"Seeker?" Ajay continued. "I believe this is my first time hearing about it. Such a Class name like Seeker never existed. May I ask where this Seeker is?"
"She's… busy looking at other stuff." Wol spoke as Ajay lightly sighed.
"That is understandable. In which, I will not pry any further." Ajay then continued. "As for me, I am humbly loyal to the Queen as I am her one and only retainer. I protect the queen with my life. Knowing my circumstances as a Master. I do have to be careful around my surroundings. The Chimera are as violent as ever, always looking for prey to hunt. Ahem… I take it that you're interested in her wares?"
"Oh, most certainly." Merlin smiled. "Miss Sheba. If I were to buy this diamond of yours. How much would you sell it for?"
"Ah, that one." Sheba continued with her usual sly smirk. "That one will cost you one million gold.~"
"O-One million!? S-Surely you jest!" Merlin continued as Wol tilted his head a little. "With that price this expensive, no one would ever buy it!"
"That's simply how I run my business here.~ I do wish to have an audience with King Artoria to establish a business partnership between the Kingdom of Sheba and Camelot. All I simply need is marking the second trade route. First being Uruk, of course.~" Sheba said as she looked at Wol. "But what of you, Mister Wol?~ Are you interested in buying this diamond, too?~"
Wol then thought about it for a quick moment. At first, the gem looks absolutely pristine. A priceless item that would sell for millions. But a million gold for a single diamond? That's basically like buying a home or a piece of fancy jewelry. So, he made his decision…
"No thanks." Wol declined as Sheba's animal ears drooped down in disappointment as Merlin put it back where it belonged.
"O-Oh… I suppose no one would buy it… M-Maybe unless…?" Sheba said in disappointment as her Master would speak up.
"Unless those noblemen would be interested in buying it off of you. They have a large amount of money. If you could convince them, they'll definitely buy your goods! Trust me, Your Majesty! You'd be making millions of gold in no time!" Ajey suggested her with the idea as her ears perked up.
"A fantastic idea, Master!~" Sheba continued. "Though, considering how Noblemens are… They, of course, must solve my riddles and I have them prepared just in case."
Background Music End
Suddenly, Sheba's ears twitch as she senses something as she looks to her right with concern on her face. Then, a sound of explosion came from afar as it caught everyone's attention of where it was. The people were thrown into a panic as some watched what happened.
Background Music | Persona 3 Reload OST - Calamity
Frightened Civilian: "W-What was that an explosion!? What happened!?"
Scared Civilian: "I-It's the Saxons! T-They have Chimeras with them!"
Panicking Civilian: "T-They're back again!? R-RUN FOR YOUR LIVES!"
"Such bad timing…" Merlin continued. "It seems our enemies are up to no good again while Artoria is away right now… Nonetheless, the Knights of the Round Table should respond quickly in order to suppress this situation."
"Master! Did you hear the explosion!?" Jeanne called to her Master as he nodded.
"I did… Something feels wrong…" Wol said as Jeanne nodded.
"Correct, Wol… Merlin. We should check it out right away!" Jeanne said to him as Merlin shook his head.
"A-As much as I want to help but combat isn't my forte. I'll remain here should the Chimeras break through the kingdom's Bounded Field." Merlin said with his only excuse and reasons to remain here. However, the Queen of Sheba then gets up on her own as Ajay then readies his weapon that is in the form of a cane.
"If you intend on defending the kingdom. You should definitely do that. I'll have my only guards who were with me to protect my goods. Master, I suggest we check out the scene of the incident ourselves.~ Who knows who we're up against aside from the Chimeras.~" Sheba said to her Master as he bowed lightly.
"As my Queen commands. I will remain at your side as always." Ajay continues. "And you must be Jeanne d'Arc, yes? Allow us to help you."
"An extra hand is appreciated. Let's go, Wol!" Jeanne said as the four would run off on their own to head to the situation where the explosion came from. Merlin simply watched them running off as he pondered to himself.
"I wonder how are you going to deal with this situation, Wol… If Morgan is truly here… This is going to create an unprecedented problem…" Merlin said to himself as he could only do but to observe to see how the situation such as this unfolds…
Background Music | Persona 3 Reload OST - Shadow
Ten minutes pass by. Wol and Jeanne had already made it to the scene of the destruction where the hole was busted open within the white walls. They ran out of it where Lancelot, Tristan, Mordred, and Percival were already there. The respective Masters within the Round Table were tasked with evacuating the civilians to another district to protect them. Aside from that, Chloe was there.
"Wol! Jeanne! Good timing!" Chloe called out for them. "Never would I think the Saxons would stoop this low to attack the castle walls while King Artoria is away… But don't worry, I have Maisha assisting with Aren, Moza, and Ramza on the evacuation."
"And you should've done the same, Master… You're risking yourself to die. I cannot allow that." Percival glared at her as she shook her head.
"I know that! I'm going to do whatever it takes to defend this wall against the Saxons and the controlled Chimeras! I've become a skilled swordswoman! So please don't doubt me!" Chole retorted as she drew out her sword and maintained her stance.
"Master… we must prepare ourselves." Jeanne said as she summoned her flagpole.
"Right." Wol replied as he summoned his Blade of Thought on his right hand.
"All units, in formation!" Lancelot commanded the group of knight soldiers who all complied as they rushed to their side and raised up their shields as the archers on the top of the wall were ready.
"Well now. Talk about one hell of a party, ain't it?" The voice of a gruff but serious man spoke as he revealed himself…
"Kupka Dycedarg…" Mordred spat as she called out his name.
"Guilty as charged." Kupka replied. "Do you like what you see? We outnumber you pathetic knights. As long as we have full control of these beasts with the use of manufactured void crystal, we'll crush Camelot under True Queen's name."
"How sad… binding creatures to do your bidding is truly sad…" Tristan lightly retorted as he kept his eyes closed as usual.
"My dear husband. Let's quit the bickering, taunting them will do no good…" The voice of a melancholic woman spoke as she finally revealed herself. To Wol's eyes… This particular woman looked similar to Vivian, the one he met in some dream. Except her hair was white like its luminous, aquamarine eyes, a cold gaze, and a high fantasy-like gothic dress. She even wielded a black spear in her hand.
"You…" Mordred snarled the moment her eyes met with her.
"You disappoint us, Morgan le Fay." Lancelot continued. "You dare strike our kingdom while our King is away in an important meeting? Have you no shame?"
"I couldn't care less about her. My objective is to crush your pathetic kingdom and your beloved king, crush them under my foot and rebuild Camelot in my own image. I know the kingdom will fall into despair. The world may have continued on, but soon it will fall as well." Morgan said coldly as Mordred grew impatient.
"Shut it, mother! You have no right to look down on Father and her kingdom! You're just a spineless fucking manipulator! That's who you are!" Mordred shouted in anger as the future Queen sighed in disappointment.
"You always find ways to disappoint me, my child. But talking back to your mother is also a punishment by death. But the time for talking is over…" Morgan then proceeds to lend her hand out forward to command her forces. "Go."
With it, the Saxon soldiers and the mages wielding the staff that has those manufactured void crystals to command the Chimeras charged into battle in an open large field. But at the same time, an Inversal Rain is already happening. Everyone including Wol, Jeanne, and Chloe readied themselves for the worse…
Golden Palace, Empire of Roma Daytime - Clear Sky
Meanwhile… somewhere within the prosperous roman city in place of the former capital of the Old World of what's called "Rome". Civilians were living in peace within their daily lives as they lived safely all thanks to the Emperor of Roma… the golden statue of a glorious woman who has shown her pride and love to both her capital and her people. And thanks to the civilian lives, Roma had begun using Old World technology all thanks to the genius named Leonardo Di Vinci, a Servant who works under Atlas Academy and bounded to her Master who isn't present at the time. The Old World technology for example is what people are using as if everything feels like an Old World but it isn't. But instead focusing on the streets of Roma, the attention is later focused at the Golden Palace where the emperor lives who currently enjoys watching the vast view of her capital. Of course, she loved visiting one particular location in Roma called "Venezia". Yet, it has no roads, just canals. Such as the Grand Canals thoroughfare, lined with Renaissance and Gothic palaces. And the one place she liked visiting is the replicated and reconstructed Ponte di Rialto, a large bridge where boats can move through as it was supposed to be a tourist attraction in the Old World. Or even the central square called Piazza San Marco where Saint Mark's Basilica is located. The woman with blonde hair which was tied behind as she had emerald eyes, her face similarity between her and Artoria is uncanny. But one distinct difference is her red outfit. There, she was seen enjoying a drink of Venezian fine wine through her golden cup. However, she remembers a familiar presence behind her even though she knows who this person is. The young man with a light tan complexity who has brown hair and wore a formal uniform to help represent for the people with the woman's help. Not to mention, he also has a Command Seal on his right hand when he slightly bowed.
Background Music | Persona 3 Reload OST - This Mysterious Feeling
"Your Majesty." The young man called for her.
"Oh? Praetor! Is there something wrong? Is there an issue regarding economics regarding the restoration of the colosseum? But please, you needn't call me your majesty since you and I are contracted." The woman said with some curiosity.
"Nothing of the sort, Lady Nero. The King of Camelot has arrived in your domain, asking for a meeting. A discussion of the sort." The young man explained the King's arrival coming from Camelot. Nero's mind instantly recognizes who the person is by the name of Artoria. Whom she met previously.
"Oh… her…" Nero said with an unimpressed tone. "Frederick. If it's about a meeting regarding this Avalon Festival, tell her that I'm not interested."
"It doesn't involve the festival. It involves the enemy from the north. The ones who call themselves the Saxons. There has been… troubling development as they said." The young man named Frederick continued. "In order words… they seek your assistance in defeating them along with that enemy Servant who's aligned with them."
"I see…" Nero continued as she pondered but made her response quickly. "Umu! Very well! Praetor! With me! I shall grant her the audience through a meeting. Guards! Make haste!"
"At once, Your Majesty!" The guardsman who had been there saluted as he rushed out on his own to allow them in.
Background Music | Persona 3 Reload OST - Troubled
With a few minutes passes, a meeting has taken place at the golden audience room where Nero was seen sitting on her golden throne and behind her was the very large painting of her, pointing her sword slightly upwards, depicting her to lead the charge as soldiers who serve under Nero are basking in victory. Of course… that painting was done by Di Vinci that she had commissioned. Nero's Master, Frederick, stood next to his Servant to act as her loyal retainer. The large audience room was spacious as it had a fancy red carpet with gold trim outlines and a checkered marble floor, and large tall windows shone through the sunlight. And above them is the ceiling that was also painted in a form of clouds and angels flying. Artoria, Gawain, and Bedivere… all three from the neighboring Kingdom of Camelot who arrived here in just a day due to the vastness of this continent. Of course, there were small delays of their travels because of the Inversal Rain and the rampant Chimera wandering through the lands they had to kill. Artoria and Nero lightly glared at each other as their eyes met. Gawain and Bedivere felt this awkward pressure knowing that the two don't get along but knows they're not enemies against each other. But just allies trying to get along with each other… somewhat.
"It has been two months, King Artoria. I take it that the travels were arduous?" Nero said to the King as Artoria placed her hand to her chest.
"I have… Emperor Nero." Artoria continued. "I'm sure you understood the reason why we're here."
"My Praetor has informed me about your arrival regarding your enemies from the north. The Saxons, was it?" Nero asked her as Artoria replied with a nod.
"That is correct. As of recently… my court wizard had warned me about my half-sister Morgan siding with the Saxons. That development is troubling, knowing she would do anything to destroy my Kingdom. And now, the Saxons have somehow gained control of the beasts as if they tamed them without problem." Artoria explained the whole situation about their enemy's developments in taming the Chimeras.
"Hmm… Is that so? If the Saxons managed to get their hands on this black magic or any other means. That would definitely spell trouble. Knowing your half-sister, she only cares about toppling your Kingdom to nothingness. Should she try to declare war on us? Then she'll meet at the ends of my blade." Nero continued. "I remember you're also acquainted with Di Vinci, is it not? Umu. I have seen her creations of war in action and it is truly spectacular to see. Making my empire's military to have the strongest firepower ever known to man! Ahem… You asked her for our siege weapons, no?"
"Indeed we do. And perhaps you'd be willing to assist us in battle to stop my half-sister from destroying it all… including the Avalon Festival that my Master has come up with… to celebrate the kingdom's foundation." Artoria said as she was seemingly worried.
"As you can see, Emperor Nero. Our Majesty is visibly worried should Morgan's plan come to pass. The Arvess Continent would surely fall into chaos and despair. None of us, not even the Queen of Frankia would want this to happen as well." Bedivere spoke in to plead with the Emperor of the situation.
Knowing Nero herself… She was always blindsided due to her unfriendliness towards the King of Camelot. Frederick could only just watch her and do nothing. Even though he wanted to do what's best for his Servant who is the Emperor of Roma. She struggles to make a decision as the three Knights simply watch until…
"You should take her deal. Assisting this King of Knights to aid in their battle against their adversary would prove itself to be the most beneficial of all. In the end, that's just how wars work." The voice of a serious woman spoke as the knights turned around to see her arrival.
The woman had a slightly dark skin complexion as she had dark green hair that reached down to her waist. And her outfit isn't that of armor but wore a dark green outfit with a revealing cleavage the way down to her belly. She even had a black collar around her neck and had an black eyepatch covered with on her right eye, she even has a crescent ornament symbol that somehow acts as her hairpin but it's visible due to its side as it was on the left side of her front hair and wore white gloves as she had her katana sheathed. Her dark brown and smooth long boots she wore is shown as well. Her dark yellow eyes had a cold look as they saw her apparent arrival. To Artoria… She knew who this person was. Not to mention, she brought along a young man who was following this dark-green haired beauty
"The One-eyed Dragon herself… Date Masamune…" Artoria said her name in such a visibly shocked expression.
A/N: Please look up Date Masamune's character design from the Sengoku Collection anime through images. It'll be better that way to understand better. I swear. That's what I'm going for.
"So you've heard of me, then?" Date continued as she crossed her arms and chuckled. "Then I'm honored."
"Ahh! Well if it isn't Lady Date Masamune! Pray tell, why come into my audience chamber unannounced. If I recall… your nation is still under civil war amongst each other." Nero had asked this honorable and yet violent woman as she closed her eyes as she stood next to the knights to hear her response. She opened her eyes and spoke.
"I simply needed to get away from all of this shit, is all." Date continued as her head turned to look at the bright windows. "Oda's forces have been ramping up as of late ever since our successful occupation in the town of Akashi and Fuyuki City respectively. Nobunaga herself isn't too happy with me doing that but I couldn't care less. The reason why I'm temporarily leaving Fuso is to let my hired gun Saika Magoichi handle defending the town until my return. But rest assured that both the Masamune Clan and the Saika Clan's relationship remains in good standing."
"Umu… As expected of this feudal lord. Your title will surely strike fear into your enemies." Nero compliments her as she looks at the person next to Date. "If I may ask, is this your retainer?"
The young man had brown hair, brown eyes, and wore a samurai-styled trench coat with the back symbol showing the Masamune clan that he is part of. And his back right hand shows his Command Seal as the symbol shows a dragon chasing its tail in a shape of an infinity. He remained calm as he should be.
"How astute of you. Indeed he is my only loyal retainer. As well as my Master… He is trained under me, of course. His name is Keisuke Katakura, a skilled swordsman as I am but he is experienced in combat first hand." Date then introduces her retainer as he speaks and bows honorably.
"Greetings, Emperor Nero and King of Knights. I am Keisuke Katakura. The late descendant of Kojuro Katakura. While I am the Master of this Servant. It is my utmost duty to serve under her as her only retainer through loyalty. As I serve as her Right Eye, those who harm my Lord shall feel the sting of my blade." Keisuke introduces himself as Date had a smirk on her face when looking at her retainer.
"Well said, Keisuke." Date continued as she looked back at Nero. "So. What is your response?"
"Hmmm… Hmmmmm… Considering how both me and Artoria used to be enemies when we first met… Umu. Very well. I will allow it. King of Knights, hear me and now. Consider this a deal from me and all of the people of Roma. We shall assist you in repelling the Saxon forces. Of course, I'll make sure to have my Praetor to notify the genius Di Vinci to lend you our finest weaponized vehicles and soldiers to aid in your cause. Don't let my blessing go to waste." Nero said with her pride as Artoria then lightly bows in response.
"Thank you, Emperor Nero. We shan't waste that blessing of yours. And Sir Gawain, please make sure you're well-behaved when Emperor Nero is around." Artoria said to the Knight of the Sun as he complied even though he didn't say anything.
"Y-Yes, my King…" Gawain replied.
"And what of you, Date Masamune. Are you intending to assist Artoria in their matters?" Nero had asked the One-eyed Dragon about this as she simply shook her head.
"I have no intention. But I do intend to enjoy this Avalon Festival that the King of Knights had intended to hold in her kingdom." Date said as Artoria looked at the feudal lord.
"Date. As much as I appreciate your intentions to partake in our festival. Shouldn't you be worried about your people? The Demon King of the Sixth Heaven is a relentless foe and will do anything to crush you and other clans if you're away from your country for too long." Artoria said to her with concern as the latter sighed.
"I told you not to worry, King of Knights. Magoichi is taking over things from here since I'll be returning soon depending if you've intended to strike down this half-sister of yours. As for me, I'm only conserving my strength until the time is right for me." Date said until Bedivere suddenly brought out his Terminal Slate as he looked at the screen.
"M-My King… I have received a message from Sir Lancelot…" Bedivere informed his King.
"What is it?" Artoria asked.
Background Music | Persona 3 Reload OST - Crisis
"The West District's walls are broken by the Saxons and they attempt to break through using controlled Chimeras…!" Bedivere read through the text that he spoke about as this shocks both Artoria and Gawain.
"I-Impossible!" Gawain shouted. "Has Morgan planned this while we're away!?"
"Calm yourself, you two. This is something I have never expected. Truly concerning indeed… Sir Gawain, Sir Bedivere. We depart immediately posthaste!" Artoria commanded the two as they saluted.
"Understood!" Both Gawain and Bedivere spoke as they turned around and rushed their way to leave.
"Emperor Nero. I wish we could stay and talk a bit longer but we have our own problems to deal with. Until then, farewell." Artoria said with a stern but serious look as she turned around and made her leave the audience chamber in a hurry.
"Well now… this seems interesting." Date said as she pondered what was going on.
"My lord… should we assist them?" Keisuke asks her as she crosses her arms and thinks for a small moment.
"There's no need. But I do wish to see what's going on. Let's just say we're going to observe their little battlefield. Keisuke, we depart now." Date said as she would make her leave.
"Yes, my lord!" Keisuke complied as he followed her to her right to remain at her side.
Background Music End
"It appears that the King of Knights seemed troubled, Lady Nero. But as for the Avalon Festival… I'm quite interested, to say the least." Frederick said with great interest as Nero immediately look at her Master in shock.
"M-Master!? You can't be serious? The Avalon Festival could be boring! Imagine that!" Nero said with her own concerns as he shook his head.
"I don't believe that's true… What King Artoria was saying is… she wanted to host this event with as much effort as she can. To inspire her people, her subjects, her knights, her own kingdom. To celebrate Camelot's foundation thanks to King Artoria and her Master. Think about it. Even after we help Camelot to deal with Morgan. The Arvess Continent will finally be at peace. While the Chimera will continue the roam the lands and the Inversal Rain will fall upwards. We need to think of the future for the new generation. This world… can heal. I know of it." Frederick said with hope as Nero was a bit speechless. She looked down and remained silent as she felt bad for herself. Knowing that her diplomatic relationship with the King of Camelot was stained to begin with. But she knows that he's right. The world can heal as long as they work together and build the brighter future in all of the Arvess Continent.
Outside of the Kingdom of Camelot Afternoon - Clear Sky
Background Music | Persona 3 Reload OST - Unavoidable Battle
Meanwhile back to where the battle has taken place, the sounds of blades clashing steel with each other as sparks fly. War cries from each respective force, rain of arrows fell on the ground. And both forces suffered a continual loss as both Camelot and Saxon forces continued to kill each other as bloods were split all over the ground.
[SLASH! SPLUUUURT!]
Mordred, who already cut down her foe with a bloodied Clarent as the corpse of the Saxon soldier was cut in half vertically as she showed no mercy. Lancelot and his group of knights continue to defend the wall from the Chimeras while Percival was assisting them to clear them out with a group of spearmens helping him. Wol, who had already cut down another Chimera as he was nearly losing his stamina as his fatigue grew. Chloe, who has fought in her own battles as she decapitated another Saxon brigand as blood begins to shoot out violently from the neck, falling to the floor. Jeanne, who already dealt with this Chimera, noticed to see Wol kneeling down as he stabbed his Blade of Thought on the ground in order to catch his breath.
"Wol! You're tired!" Jeanne called to him as she rushed by his side. "You mustn't work yourself out!"
"I'm fine…" Wol said as he stood up on his own, pulling his sword off the ground as his eyes met with Morgan who was standing there to overlook the fight. However, she seemed to be sitting on her throne that she had materialized as Kupka was simply watching to his own amusement. "Jeanne, I'm going to fight her."
"Y-You can't be serious! We don't even know if she's strong! H-Hey!" Jeanne noticed Wol running on his own as he wanted to fight and defeat Morgan on his own in order to end it. Almost everyone present saw what was happening the moment Merlin checked to see of what's going on…
"Wol! Don't! Do not fight her!" Merlin shouted as Wol failed to heed the Magus of Flower's warning.
"YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!" Wol shouted with anger as he tried to push himself into battle as he ran through the fields while cutting down the Saxons and the vicious Chimera beasts with no problem as his mind was too fixated on killing Morgan.
"Oh?" Morgan noticed Wol approaching him as he leaped up in the air as he proceeded to perform an aerial strike horizontally. Just as his blade nearly meets her…
[CLANG! KRRRRRRRRR!]
The sound of resonating steel meets as Wol somehow landed a strike but… it did not hit her. Instead, Morgan had instantly summoned her lance as her blade clashed with his. He then tries to struggle and put more force to it but it proved no use.
"So it is true… the accursed prophecy rings soundly." Morgan continued. "The young boy with a Golden Command Seal will restore peace to the world… To think you'd be the one to face me? Pathetic…"
[TWANG!]
Background Music End
"GAH!" Wol was knocked back as he loses his grip on his sword from Morgan's attack.
It did not wound him but he was forced back as he fell to the ground as he rolled and stopped. His Blade of Thought stabbed the ground behind him but it disappeared soon after. Wol continued to grit his teeth as he punched the ground in order to get up. Morgan then got up from her throne as it disappeared out of thin air as Kupka simply watched. The future Queen then slowly approaches Wol with her spear in hand as she points her blade towards his neck, lifting his head up to meet his gaze as the rain continues to fall upwards.
Background Music | Persona 5 OST - Blood of Villian
"Is that all you can muster?" Morgan continued. "I applaud your recklessness of going after me. But you were weak. Unable to land a single strike upon my body. But to think you're the chosen prophecy destined to save this world…? What an absolute joke. You are not fit to be the savior."
Wol gasped as he tightened his hands as he couldn't do anything… Jeanne tried to rush by his side but the Saxons and Chimeras continued to get in his way. He was already on the verge of defeat. With just one strike from her lance, it would kill him for sure.
"So… what are you gonna do about this little shit, my Queen?" Kupka said to her as she closed her eyes and thinks before opening her vision to glare at Wol again.
"Killing him would be the most susceptible choice. So I will do just that." Morgan said as she was prepared to kill him for good as Wol looked at her blade as she was ready to take his head… "Farewell, brat. Rest and die in purgatory."
Just as she was about to do…
"MORGAAAAAAAAAN!" The voice of Artoria shouted as she got off Dun Stallion and rushed with a burst of prana as the winds carried her with blinding speed. Morgan noticed coming to her right as she immediately proceeded to block the attack from her Excalibur instead. Morgan and Kupka dodged out of harm's way as the King of Knights managed to arrive in time to protect Wol from being killed. Her stern and serious look meets her half-sister. "Enough is enough, Morgan…"
"You… You…!" The moment as Morgan looks at Artoria… her mind becomes susceptible to hatred and rage as the surge of emotions begins to overflow her mentally as she starts to become unstable. "You had the audacity to come and stop me…! How dare you… HOW DARE YOU! This is your fault, Artoria! IT'S ALL OF YOUR FAULT THAT YOU TOOK EVERYTHING AWAY FROM ME! MY FUTURE! EVERYTHING! YOU ARE NOT FIT TO BECOME CAMELOT'S TRUE RULER! I WILL CRUSH YOU BENEATH MY HEEL! GRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!"
Morgan's sudden Madness Enhancement begins to take her over as she has gone out of control, the oversurge of negative prana begins to burst around her as she was about to let loose and cause hell for the lands here in the Arvess Continent. Kupka knew of this moment that it would potentially kill him and possibly everyone here. Of course, he has no choice.
"Damn it! So much for her arrival!" Kupka then uses his Command Seal as it begins to glow brightly. "By the Order of my Command Seal! Morgan le Fay… I command you to calm down!"
So, Kupka's Command Seal grants that order to accept it. Morgan's raging scream begins to stop as Morgan finally calms down as there was no longer any negative prana around her as the future Queen would gasp for breath.
"My Queen… calm yourself. We must retreat. If we fight here… there is no chance for survival. You're in no good state at this point." Kupka pleaded to Morgan as she dismissed her spear away and nodded.
"Yes… You're right… Let us go, my husband. I tire of this farce. Sister… consider yourself lucky. The next time we meet on a battlefield… I will destroy everything that you cherish." Morgan said as she and Kupka walked through the dark mist she created and disappeared in the process. The rest of the Saxons and controlled Chimeras begin to retreat in the process.
The enemy's attempts to invade were impeded successfully, but the cost was too heavy. Many soldiers were too injured and most were killed in action as a result. Both sides had faced a heavy loss because of this. Jeanne rushed to his side and hugged him. However, she noticed his face… It was an expression of defeat. Merlin had arrived to see what has transpired to this day as he shook his head in disappointment now that Wol failed to heed his warnings. The rest of the Round Table had arrived to help the soldiers and recuperate as Chloe watched to see Wol on the floor. She knows that she felt bad for him. Everything was a complete mess. Far away from the battlefield where Date Masamune and her retainer Keisuke Katakura were on their horses to watch the whole view at a cliffside where the Kingdom of Camelot is at during the Inversal Rain. The One-eyed Dragon saw what happened with her own eye as the results of the battle was a complete stalemate. There were no winners. She had her arms crossed with a serious look on her face.
"My lord…" Keisuke said to her as she had no response whatsoever. But her eyes have glanced at a certain someone who takes an interest in… And that is Wol himself.
And so, the steel sky continues to fall upwards as Wol's journey has yet to flourish…
[TO BE CONTINUED…]
Ending Theme - request by krage [English Version] (Solo Leveling)
*Theme plays*
The theme starts as it shows a dark brutalist corridor where the single door is shown. And through the door shows Wol who was seen sitting on the bed with the wall of TVs showing static.
Continuing laughter closes me
Keep on feeding my loser's dignity
One more step closer to death or rebirth
I'm wide awake down in the darkest hell
The scene starts with Wol having his hands to his face as he was grieving in disappointment while the TV screens show the split of Wol and Jeanne d'Arc. While Wol on the bed begins to lay down as he covers his eyes with his right arm. Then the TV screen then shows Artoria Pendragon along with her Knights of the Round Table at the audience chamber as Wol then grabs out his terminal slate as he looks at the screen to stare at the static.
Tell me what exactly you want more of me?
My blood and cells don't fit in your hierarchy?
I'll dive into fantasy and go hunt for a better version of me
Then the screen on his slate shows the perspective of Wol whose hand was taken by Jeanne as she was leading to places within the kingdom. Then the next scene shows Jeanne providing him with her cooking as she smiled at him. Wol turned off his slate as he looked at the door to stare at it before getting up.
Request request to hear the voice within
Request request to strengthen my heart and dream
Completely wake me up and take me to a different universe
Then the TV screen shows Merlin standing on the fields of flora as his hair was blown by the winds as the next screen shows Morgan le Fay sitting on her throne in the basalt walls of her throne room with Kupka standing beside her. Then, Wol tries turning the doorknob as it was locked.
"Mirror, mirror, on the wall"
Down to the hell you'll fall
I need, I need, I need to let the revolution begin
Wol then tries to barge the door down with every strength he attempts and struggles to break it down as the TV screen shows Wol looking behind as he turns his head with a sinister glare. As Wol takes a step back, he picks up speed and shoulder bashes the door down as he breaks it, falling to the floor as the TV goes completely static as ghostly dark hands come out of it as the corridor begins to flash red.
I wanna break through the limit from deep within
How far ahead do I have to go?
Leveling up, leveling up
In this dungeon I can't escape
Wol then proceeds to run down the corridor with his life as the ghostly hands behind him begin to multiply as they attempt to reach him. Thrusted in fear, he continues to run to escape from the hands within the corridor as each wall begins to have doors with each deterioration he passes by as the walls begin to show cracks.
I'm gonna break out of the prison that locks me in
What lies ahead for me to find is
A never-ending question
A never-ending quest = a next-level request
Will never ever end
As Wol sees the light up ahead from the beyond, he picks up the pace and tries to reach for that light until the hands behind him start to grab his legs, arms, and chest as he screams for his life. He struggles to move forward as he reaches his right hand out that shows his Command Seal. Then, a mysterious hand comes out of the light as it grabs Wol's hand, breaking free. The scene transitions to a windy plain where Jeanne was waiting for him with a kind smile. She helps him up as she points to where Camelot is. Wol nodded and smiled as the two headed down the path to the kingdom as it ended with his Terminal Slate on his hand he was carrying was still in static as it shuts off.
Author's Notes: Hello, everyone. Thank you for reading the third chapter. Things really did pick up some pace, huh? I promised that this chapter is going to be dark and brutal and I delivered. Of course, with a lot of new characters appearing and Wol facing his defeat against Morgan. Things such as this will only go down south from here. However, he still has some miniscule of hope left. I decided to put some more effort in Manga SFX-styled effects, background music, and an Ending Theme from Solo Leveling as well. Hopefully, it'll continue this way going forward but I will put some balance for the SFX effects, too. As promised, I will provide more glossary as well as an Omake to make up for the lack of glossary in the last chapter. The next chapter will have an Opening Theme or not. Again, I'll need to find a suitable theme for this first arc. So yeah, look forward to that. Until then, peace out!
[Omake: Gacha in the Lake]
Wol, who has returned to the lake where he first met Vivian to see what's going on. Of course, Vivian was pretty proud of something that she had come up with.
"I'm here." Said Wol, who crossed his arms. Vivian was more than excited to see him.
"And you came!~" Vivian continued. "While I have brought you here personally while you're sleeping. I came up with a fantastic idea! I believe in the Old World where people pull for rolls to get what they want. I think it's called a Gacha… Yeah! That's the one!"
"Umm… What?" Wol was entirely confused of what Gacha is or how it works.
"You have 10 Saint Quarts in your pockets, right?" Vivian continued as Wol brought them out and looked at it. "If you toss all 10 Quartz into my lake, I'll definitely try to summon a powerful 5-Star Servant to your side. But don't worry about 3-star and 4-star Craft Essences. Even if you get a 4-Star Servant, it's no big deal.~ Right now, it's the Beginner's Banner. You'll be guaranteed to get a 5-Star Servant in each 50 rolls. But don't worry, the cost to pull for a 10-pull is 8 Saint Quartz so go wild."
"Just eight quartz, huh? Better than nothing, I guess." Wol then decided to toss all 8 into her lake. With it, Vivian then proceeded to use her magical energy to create a whirlpool as it shot out a shooting star that was glowing from blue to purple. As it reaches into the sky… a sudden influx of information was injected into his head.
[3* Craft Essence - Black Keys]
[3* Craft Essence - Black Keys]
[3* Craft Essence - Black Keys]
[3* Craft Essence - Black Keys]
[3* Craft Essence - Black Keys]
[3* Craft Essence - Black Keys]
[3* Craft Essence - Black Keys]
[3* Craft Essence - Black Keys]
[3* Craft Essence - Black Keys]
[4* Craft Essence - Mapo Tofu]
"Oof… It appears you aren't lucky. You currently have like 2 right now. So… don't beat yourself up- H-Hey! What are you doing!?" Vivian then notices Wol walking into her lake in order to drown himself and return back to reality…
He certainly is indeed… unlucky.
-[The Glossary No. 3]-
[Morgan le Fay - Character]
Master: Kupka Dycedarg
Archetype: Berserker/Ruler Hybrid
Description: A Classless Servant who is Artoria's half-sister as well as the evil counterpart of Vivian. Her sole mission is to destroy Camelot from within and forcefully take it over in her own vision. She bears hatred and tends to go berserk whenever she sees Artoria. She calls herself the True Queen of Camelot and believes that her sister is unfit to rule. She seemingly leads the Saxons as she is contracted to the leader of the army, Kupka Dycedarg.
[Date Masamune - Character]
Master: Keisuke Katakura
Archetype: Saber
Description: A Classless Servant hailing from Japanese History who originated from the Sengoku Era, otherwise known as the Warring States. She is a feudal lord that is honorable and violent when it comes to her combat prowess. She was among many Servants released by the Throne as the nation of Fuso was forcefully thrusted into the full recreation of the Warring States. And Date intends to conquer all of the lands in this Eisa Continent in order to unify Fuso. She has earned her nickname, the "One-eyed Dragon" due to her eyepatch and her peerless combative skill that involves invoking thunder from her blade. She came to the Arvess Continent to partake in the Avalon Festival while letting her hired gun Saika Magoichi defend her clan for the time being. She has made her master, Keisuke as her loyal retainer and Right Eye due to his blood connections of his ancestor Kujuro Katakura.
[Keisuke Katakura - Character]
Servant: Date Masamune
Description: The Master of Date Masamune. He acts as her Right Eye and loyal retainer as he is the descendant of the late Kojuro Katakura. Born from the Sasebo ghetto when Chimera roamed the lands and the Warring States raging on in Fuso. His life was saved by Date when he was nearly killed by Oda's forces who laid waste to destroy Sasebo in the process. He was later taken in and trained by Date due to his blood relations with Kojuro. He is skilled in combat but nowhere close to Date due to her being a Heroic Spirit. He is very loyal towards her as he will do anything to help and protect her, even if it will cost his life. Of course, he wants Date to help unify Fuso and defeat Oda Nobunaga from destroying this nation entirely. Keisuke also came to the Arvess Continent with Date to partake in the Avalon Festival, too.
[Nero Claudius - Character]
Master: Frederick Doglio
Class Archetype: Saber
Description: The Emperor of Roma. She has a deep admiration towards her empire, her people, and the legacy it has left behind. Yet, she loves her people and hopes that they can praise her and bask in her glory. She does not get along with Artoria well due to her uncanny resemblance as well as their conflicting ideals. However, she had recently struck a deal with her to help assist Camelot in a war against her sister Morgan le Fay.
[Fuso - Location]
Continent: Eisa
Ruler: Grand Archer of Fuso (Oda Nobunaga)
Description: An Eastern nation that neighbors Yaoqing at the Anjin Sea northwest. However, its main capital: Imperial Capital Tokyo has progressively different from the rest of the lands as the city itself has advanced that is heavily compared to 1945 Tokyo in the Old World. While the rest of the regions within Fuso are more feudal-like and rural in a sense. The nation has been forever locked in a Warring States Era. There are currently five clans each with their own land. Masamune Clan, Takeda Clan, Uesugi Clan, Oda Clan, and the Hideyoshi Clan. Each clan has their own ideals and ambitions that clash amongst each other in order to unify Japan as their only ruler. Oda Nobunaga, who has unified all of Tokyo, intends to conquer all lands of Fuso next and will stop at nothing. But the only enemy by the name of Hideyoshi Toyotomi is considered the most problematic of all.