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Fate/birthscion Genesis -beginnings-
Act 6 - To the Everdistant Utopia
Summary: Two days have passed. With Wol and Jeanne having enough preparations. The Arvess Alliance consisting of Camelot, Roma, and the Paladins are set to wage war against their mortal enemy: The Saxons and Morgan le Fay.
3/12/2182 Arglwyddes
Background Music Persona 3 Reload OST - Aria of the Soul
It has been two days since Wol and Jeanne's training. But it was enough for the two to be prepared for anything. But he was brought back here in this separate domain known as the Arglwyddes, home to the Lady of the Lake who has been mysteriously imprisoned here. Wol slowly opened his eyes where he was standing near the lake as he knew he was brought back here. Not sure of what was going on but everything felt quiet and serene. There, his eyes look forward where Vivian was seen tending the lake all alone as the small water sprites were hovering in the air, playing with each other and others remained near her. However, the moment Vivian noticed his arrival. She was quite happy but melancholic at the same time.
"Welcome back, Wol. I was waiting for you to wake up and here you are." Vivian continued. "I have seen your progress ever since your reckless attempt on fighting Morgan. But alas, your training with Seeker has seemingly improved. How do you feel now?"
"Feeling better, I suppose." Wol replied.
"I see… But regardless, the time of war is upon you. The Arvess Alliance consisting of Camelot, Roma, and the Twelve Paladins of Charlemagne are taking up their arms against my evil self." Vivian looked down a bit as she started to feel worried. "I'm unsure if you're up for the task now that the final battle is near."
"I can do it, Vivian. You just have to believe in me." Wol placed his hand to his chest as his resolve was filled with certain determination. He remembered the moment he summoned Jeanne d'Arc to his side by overcoming his anxiety. "I know what I have to do. I am the Viator, after all."
"That you are, Wol. Your determination is unwavering. The challenges and hardships will be laid bare upon your journey. Difficult, yes. But I can sense that hope within you. Defeating Morgan alone won't be enough. So let me tell you this. You mustn't take on Morgan alone as you need allies to rely on you. Do you understand?" Vivian said to him as he would respond to those answers and advice that was presented to him.
"I do." Wol replied.
"Then I'm glad that you understood." Vivian continued as she would approach him and placed her finger pointed to his heart. "At a certain future, where you'll be presented to face those anxieties once again in an unjust battle… You must properly awaken your new potential. Beyond the pact of Seeker, lies something more greater that will aid you in your journey. That is all I can provide you. For now… you're needed elsewhere as the war draws near. I will see you soon."
And so, Wol would be grabbed by the streams of water once again as he would sink under and drown. His eyes begin to slowly shut as he would return back to the world of the living.
Background Music End
Round Table, Kingdom of Camelot Daytime - Clear Sky
As time passes into daytime after Wol's long sleep ever since he was summoned into Vivian's domain to have a chat regarding his future potential. Of course, he and Jeanne were called in by Chloe to join the Round Table meeting now that today's the start of the War against the enemy from the north. Which is the Saxons and Morgan herself. Not to mention Morgan's contracted Master named Kupka Dycedarg who is also considered another threat according to Agravain's words. While there were words that the remaining Round Table such as Kay, Gaheris, Palamedes, Ector, Galahad along with his Master are holding down their position at the Northern Border Fort. But so far, the rest of the knights along with Chloe, Moza, and Aren are present. That also counts Artoria since she is present as well. As tension fills the air of uncertainty, most knights including the chosen Masters were not sure of the task as they seemed unprepared for war but what other choice do they have?
Background Music Persona 3 Reload OST - Troubled
"Thank you all for coming here. That includes you, Wol and Jeanne." Artoria continued. "Now that two days have passed. I believe we must prepare ourselves for war. Me and Emperor Nero have agreed unanimously to temporarily form the Arvess Alliance. While it's understandable that the Kingdom of Frankia's refusal to get involved. But the Twelve Paladins of Charlemagne have agreed to join us as a result. The once-and-future king Charlemagne will surely grace us with his presence in order to fight against our adversaries ahead."
"Neato." Moza continued. "But if I can ask, where are we being deployed at exactly? As well as the soldiers that are properly trained?"
"We shall meet up with Roma's forces at the Northern Border Fort where my knights under the detachment group are stationed at. I did receive a message from Kay's pigeon courier about thirty minutes ago. The Saxons have continued to capture and control the Chimeras, bolstering their forces more. Worse, they'll overrun us like a swarm." Artoria informed everyone of Kay's message.
"As expected… we won't stand a chance now they have those bloody Chimeras at their side." Aren sighed as he crossed his arms while Mordred seemed to nod without speaking.
"It's because they have those manufactured crystals filled with foul magic. Must be Le Fay's doing." Chloe added as she remains adamant during these discussions.
"Seems about right… Hey, new guy." Moza calls out Wol. "What do you make of this? Even though you're simply helping us do our dirty work."
"We still have a chance of winning. The Heroic Spirits of the Round Table can make quick work of them." Wol added as this made Moza rather surprised with his brows raised.
"Y-You're… awfully confident, aren't you?" Moza asked.
"Wol is right." Artoria continued. "We may be Heroic Spirits, yes. But in the end, we're still human. Protecting Camelot and our people is always my priority. With the Avalon Festival looming towards the deadline… We need to depart immediately and strike fast. I know this isn't much to say but… are you all willing? To fight by my side once more?"
"Of course, Your Majesty. We will follow and fight for you wherever we go." Gawain said with pride as he was willing to continue serving under her.
"I will assist you with every step of the way, My King. Just know that you aren't alone." Bedivere said as he placed his hand to his chest with a soft smile.
"Don't be, Your Majesty." Percival continued as he continued to hold his spear. "As long as I have this spear, I shall pierce the darkness everforth."
"You know, Father? You worry sometimes. But don't worry, just leave it to us. Me and Aren here will get shit done." Mordred said with a confident smile as Aren laughed.
"Hah! Spoken like a true fuckin' warrior, I'd tell you what!" Aren added.
"As long as you're my King, my bow shall sing true." Tristan spoke as he always had his eyes closed as usual.
"At least try to speak with enthusiasm for once. I want the Avalon Festival to go through so I can enjoy these kinds of festivities." Moza said with excitement as he proceeded to check his revolvers before looking back at the king.
"I will still serve under you, Your Majesty. As long as you continue to lead. Camelot's future will prosper." Agravain said.
"It seems they're willing to assist her no matter what." Jeanne said to Wol. "Though, it's nice to see that she still has allies like us for example."
"You're not wrong. But hopefully… hopefully Camelot will finally earn their peace once the war is concluded." Wol replied back to her knowing that they would prevail. However…
[THUMP!]
The door opens in such a hurry where someone barged in unannounced as everyone saw… The person that everyone is seeing is none other than Shirou Emiya himself. For some reason, he was back in the Kingdom after being away for such a long time. Artoria noticed to see Shirou's face once more as this reunion would be sudden.
"S-Shirou?" Artoria called his name.
"Hey, Saber… I'm back…" Shirou said with a soft smile before approaching her. "Sorry that I was gone for too long."
As the two looked each other in the eyes… Artoria hurriedly to hug Shirou…
"What took you so long… I was worried about you…!" Artoria demanded as the Iron-Wrought Hero would chuckle and hug her back.
"Sorry, Saber… for worrying you like this. But rest assured, I'm back. Just had to halt our enemy's progress, that's all." Shirou said to her as Artoria would look back at her Master.
"Yet, you shouldn't do this alone… Just… don't leave me again, okay?" Artoria said to him as he nodded.
"I won't, Saber. You have my word." Shirou replied as he would let her go and look at everyone. "Sorry that you had to see our reunion. But, I'll be as quick as possible on the update. I managed to eliminate the last of the Saxon's detachment group attempting to invade Camelot with Brutes and controlled Chimeras who were intending to strike the West District's walls. So you won't be seeing any ambush attacks anymore. All that leaves is the war at the northern border fort."
"Damn, Shirou. You're really cautious over everything. But hey, thanks for doing the heavy lifting for us now that one of us will never be left behind." Moza tips his hunter's hat to him as he chuckles and scratches the back of his head.
"Ahaha… Just doing my job." Shirou replied until he met Saber's gaze as if she was lightly pouting. "O-Oh, right… Aside from my lone wolf task on dealing with a detachment group, I will be joining with Saber here to assist the knights in their efforts in defeating Morgan."
"As my Master said, Shirou will be joining us in battle the moment we prepare for departure." Artoria continued. "Rest assured that the victory will be ours and peace will properly be obtained under the Arvess Alliance. Now, the meeting concludes. Head outside of the castle wall's gates and we will meet you there. I… I need some extra time for preparation."
"Understood!" All of the people present in this room exclaimed as they would start moving out without even elaborating further.
"We should get going and meet up with the rest." Jeanne said to him as Wol nodded.
"Right. Let's." Wol responded as they would also leave. Now… with Wol and Jeanne leaving the room entirely. Shirou and Artoria were the only two left here. She felt uncertain about herself ever since she has become a revered and respected leader of her own kingdom for many, many years and counting.
"Shirou…" Artoria said as she looked down a bit. "Is… Is it okay if we can talk back in our room? I hadn't got a chance to say something before you left so suddenly. So is it okay…?"
"I'm all ears, Saber. I understand how you feel. So let's go somewhere else where we can continue our conversation." Shirou replied calmly in order to understand what had been going on in Saber's mind.
Background Music Persona 3 Reload OST - Because I Will Protect You
As the Master and Servant moved on their way within the castle where they arrived inside their room where the room's interior design is more lavish but decent in some way. Of course, the was that very same balcony that Artoria stood on when she saw a falling star. Artoria looked outside to see the balcony once more to show the view on top of the castle where the kingdom's four districts are shown. And down at the South District which acts as the main plaza when Wol and Jeanne first came. There was a military parade going on as the Round Table Knights were mounted on their horses while the soldiers marched down towards the gate as the crowd cheered for them. Artoria and Shirou could watch them from below but… she proceeded to hold her left arm with her right hand as her expression became rather saddened. As if she is having those anxieties. All Shirou could do is to look at her.
"So, is there anything you want to talk about, Saber?" Shirou asked her as would respond.
"I'm scared, Shirou…" Artoria said with uncertainty as she feels conflicted as of currently. This made Shirou confused about it.
"Scared?" Shirou asked.
"I do…" Artoria continued. "Everyday, I think about the future. Experiencing memories of other me's of how it went… And worst of all… I fear that this 'Goddess Rhongomyniad' might take control of me the more I lose myself when you are not around. My Saint Graph changed me and has taken in the appearance of this goddess, yes. But I've longed suppressed it to ensure that I want to continue ruling my beloved kingdom fair and just. Shirou… you saw the other me in action before Camelot was built."
"Saber…" Shirou becomes worried of Saber's mental health as she would start breaking down slowly. Thus, the discussion would continue.
"Do you remember the time when Goddess Rhongomyniad took over me?"
"I do, Saber. During the construction of Camelot when a village was simply a small hamlet. You, I, and the Knights were protecting that town from a horde of Chimeras during the Inversal Rain when that Coral Field appeared from afar."
"Correct… It was then I was forced to fight against a gruesome beast known as the Sorrowless whose strength was on par with me. But the moment I used Rhongomyniad…"
"The other you… Goddess Rhongomyniad took over your body, changed your appearance within your Saint Graph. And that was when you attempted to fight us. Hell, your goddess self was spouting words like how the world is dying from its core and needs to be saved. And the other where she wants to create her own version of Camelot where she will preserve and oppress all."
"Yeah, I know… But it was then you managed to disarm my lance and stop me, convincing me with your honeyed words that there is still hope left in me. Yet, you are still looking at me. Now in the body of what used to be Goddess Rhongomyniad."
"You're still Saber, that's all it is important to me. The sacred Lance is already stored away somewhere within the confines of this castle. I want to make sure that you won't be taken over by her ever again. As long as you wield Excalibur, you are the people's shining hope in all of Camelot. As your Master- no… as your only friend since the Chimera invasion 150 years ago. I'll do my best to help you as you helped me before. I know I'm speaking a lot and- Huh?" Shirou noticed Artoria hugging her as she would proceed to shed a tear.
"Don't let me go, Shirou… And… Thank you…" Artoria continued. "Thank you for bringing me out of the darkness. And please… never leave my side…"
"Ahaha… I won't, Saber. I won't." Shirou then hugged her back as Artoria then stepped back a little bit as she would proceed to kiss him mouth to mouth as he would accept that ever since both of them were in a long-term relationship before they stopped having an intimate kiss.
"I love you in every universe, Shirou…~ My eternal consort, my beloved scabbard, forevermore…" Artoria expresses her love towards her Master as he would have a soft smile.
"Same to you as well, Saber. My only blade…" Shirou replied as the two would proceed to continue back on kissing each other in deep affection.
The two would go on during the day as they would continue to spend time together just the two of them. Shirou Emiya, the Master of Saber and survivor of the Fuyuki Holy Grail War who has retained his youth for 150 years. Artoria Pendragon, the Grand Saber summoned by Shirou who lived on with her Master and built the United Kingdom of Camelot. While it's known that Artoria is loved by her citizens and upstanding nobles alike for her rational decision to lead and solve political problems. Shirou himself is considered the second King of Camelot with a title of Lord, he has time shown time again carrying his ideals of being the Champion of Justice in order to do what's best for Artoria's kingdom. Yet, he acted on his own volition to fight against enemies that would threaten it. But now with their reunion… Artoria and Shirou would stop kissing before looking at each other once more.
"It appears we've delayed for too long. Why not meet up with the Round Table and head straight to the battlefield, shall we?" Saber said to him with a smile as he would nod in response.
"We shall, Saber. Let's get going. We don't wanna let the other know what we've been doing." Shirou said as the two would make their leave from their master bedroom within the top of the castle as they would make their way and do what they needed to do: To war.
Background Music End
Northern Border Fort, Arvess Continent Afternoon - Inversal Rain
As time passes where one location is shown to be a checkpoint for the Camelot military known as the Northern Border Fort. Nothing is to be said as the majority of the troops from both Camelot and Roma have grouped up. However, Wol looked at the armored vehicles that the Empire had brought. There were tanks adorned with gold outlines as it was made out of metal, steel, and wood. However, on the front of the tanks have those golden lion heads with it's mouths opened wide where the long tank cannon is. Not only that, the Roma soldiers are equipped with roman armor with short swords known as the gladius, bows, spears, and tower shields on their hands. As for the Camelot soldiers, all are mostly composed of knights, archers, and battle wizards wielding what appears to be Magecraft Igniters. According to Chloe's detail, the igniters were primarily used from Gem Magecraft, with that technique belonging to the Tohsakas and the Edelfelt from the Old World respectively. But the igniters themselves are interesting in some sense as they're capable of conjuring all types of elements like fire for example. Of course, Igniters are not easy to create as it requires Magineers affiliated with Atlas to create them. That even would cost an amount of resources. Wol then looked the other way where Astolfo was with his own group which they call themselves the Twelve Paladins of Charlemagne. Led by none other than Charlemagne who is apparently a King of Frankia while the Queen known as Marie Antoinette who prefers not to get involved. So the Paladins would take up the mantle over Frankia's place for the war. However, Charlemagne isn't present at the time despite their willingness to participate. Aside from Astolfo is a young girl with blonde long twintails and wielded a luminous spear and a shield shimmering like a star. He doesn't know who she is but he already assumes that she's with Astolfo. Ignoring that, he was with Jeanne along with the other Masters who are part of the Round Table. There, Artoria arrived on her Dun Stallion as Shirou was on horseback with her. But as soon as Artoria moved her steed ahead to look at the whole group of soldiers from her side as Nero joined alongside her.
Hesitating Knight: "Can't believe that we're finally doing this…"
Calm-headed Knight: "Obviously, we're finally taking down that awful witch and those bloody Saxons.
Serious Knight: "Let's hope that we can take her head as a prize. She has no right to live in this forsaken world."
"It appears they're confident, Wol. But remember, don't get yourself killed if you're too reckless." Jeanne informed him as he nodded.
"I know, thanks to our training. I feel prepared so make sure you get my back and I have yours." Wol said back to his Servant as she would nod back at him.
"Bullets, check… My revolvers, all good… Man, I can't wait to shoot up those damn Saxons when my bullets go through their heads!" Moza said with excitement as he twirls his weapons before stopping it.
"Fat chance, your guns might do the work. But me and Mordred are gonna strike the enemy first with our blades as quickly as possible. Close range solves everything." Aren interjected as he had his sword sheathed.
"Focus, you two… We need to clear our heads before the battle begins." Chloe informs the two as Maisha was rather shy. "Maisha… calm yourself. Just make sure you remain at Percival's side."
"R-Right! I'll do just that!" Maisha stammered.
"To all of my fellow knights of Camelot. The time has finally come to strike upon our enemy's doorstep." Artoria continued as she began her speech as such. "For years, I have built Camelot to help bring peace and safeguard my subjects, my citizens, my knights… as well as my beloved Master. While the Chimera continue to exist and spread chaos throughout the land, the Saxons have come to take advantage of it and desire to destroy everything that me and Shirou have built during our time in this world. But you mustn't give into fear, everyone! For I, Artoria Pendragon, the Grand Saber, the king, the fair ruler of the Kingdom of Camelot… shall lead you to victory! But rest assured, the Empire of Roma has come to assist us to defeat those forces… as well as my half-sister, Morgan Le Fay."
"Umu! Well said, kind king of Camelot!" Nero continued. "As long as we Romans continue to exist, we will help our fellow allies in bringing peace to the land!"
"Long live Nero! Lone live Nero!" The roman soldiers begin to chant and celebrate her name in unison.
"Yes! Praise me! Revere me! For I, the Emperor of Roses, shall head on first to battle!" Nero exclaimed with pride as she summoned her red crimson sword on her hand, pointing at the enemy far ahead.
"Now then… let us not waste time…" Artoria then drew out her Excalibur as Shirou got off her stallion as she would point her blade at the enemy. "TO BATTLE! CHARGE!"
Background Music | CounterSide OST - IRONS ON FIRE
All the soldiers cheered and shouted in unison as Jeanne unfurled her flagged pole as it was blown by the wind. Wol and the others ran down the slope of the plains as they charged towards the enemy. However, the Saxons and the controlled Chimeras did the same. Both forces rushed into the battle as Roma's tanks had fired tank shells at the Saxons as they were killed in a blast. As for Wol and Jeanne, they ran together as they would try to clear the way but the Chimera they controlled attempted to impede them but they proved to be quite easy in defeating the magical beasts thanks to their training. The Round Table held their ground as they were slaughtering the Saxons and Chimera left and right as the Inversal Rain continued to pour upwards. One problem is that the black basalt castle that heavily resembles the Kingdom of Camelot except that it is more gothic in terms of aesthetic designs. Indeed that the basalt castle itself where Morgan resides is heavily protected by a magical barrier where none or anyone could pass through in or out as if it's impenetrable.
"They won't stop coming… Wol! Are you feeling okay?" Jeanne asked him as she slashes the Chimera's head off through a decapitation. Wol stabbed two Saxon marauders in one as he pulled out his Blade of Thought.
"Doing fine so far. Seems they're not backing down with all those people getting in our way." Wol responded as he looked to his left to see Nero gracefully slashing down her enemies with her flaming blade. "So that's the Emperor of Roma…"
"It's my first time seeing her as well. To think she can handle a large group of enemies alone is quite impressive." Jeanne said as the two watched until one of the unsuspecting Saxons proceeded to leap upwards to strike from behind until…
[FWIP! STAB!]
An arrow shot him in the head as he fell to the floor as the two turned around to look at the corpse before looking at Shirou was seen using a black bow before switching to his black and white blades.
"You two, focus!" Shirou exclaimed. "Me and Saber will try to get you inside the castle once she paves the way."
"What do you mean? The castle is protected by a barrier. There's no way for us to get in, though!" Wol interjected as he seemed concerned about it.
"Don't worry." Shirou smirked a bit. "Saber knows what she's doing."
Far from the battlefield where Artoria was seen holding Excalibur on her right hand as she watched the battle rage on. Bedivere remained by her side as he would look at his king as Artoria maintained her stoic composure.
"The time is now, My King." Bedivere said to her as she nodded as if she knew what she's doing.
"I'm well aware. This is the only task I can do to assist Wol to pave the way for him." Artoria continued. "As much as I want to assist him in the battle against my half-sister… the enemy forces must be dealt with. Sir Bedivere, I suggest you take a step back."
"As you command." Bedivere bowed as he walked backwards in order to step out of her way.
Artoria could see Shirou battling on his own as he dealt with his enemies with ease thanks to his rigorous training with Artoria throughout the decades. However, the Iron-Wrought Hero had slashed down a Saxon as the enemy's arm was sliced off before stabbing his blade right into his face before pulling it out. His eyes shifted to see where his Servant was as he nodded at her, signaling her use of her Noble Phantasm. She proceeded to hold the sword in front of her perspective as her blade began to emit a glowing golden light as it gathered as much prana as possible as her intention was to break the barrier.
"This light is the planet's hope… proof of the life that illuminates this world! Behold! EX-"
As the golden light on the blade begins to shine brightly as it extends itself that reaches atop of the planet's atmosphere… She had already unleashed her powerful Noble Phantasm…
"-CALIBUR!"
[FWEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEM! THOOOOOOOOOSH!]
"GAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!" The screams of the Saxon forces were knocked away by the violent wind as either were killed while the Chimeras were caught in a bloody crossfire. The golden slash of a beam impacts the magical barrier as it successfully breaks it easily with just one downward slash from Artoria's Sword of Promised Victory… Excalibur.
While the forces continued clashing against each other, Wol and Jeanne noticed that the barrier was already broken through as his eyes looked at Artoria who was at the hill just to watch the battle.
"Don't stand there, Wol! Go!" Artoria shouted as he knew what she had to say to him.
"We have to get going. Morgan is waiting for us at her castle." Wol said to Jeane as she nodded as the two ran their way. The rest of the Knight Tables proceeded to pave the way for them as Gawain used every ounce of his strength to cut through the castle gates with ease. Wol thanked him with a gesture as the two would run along ahead in order to confront their only foe who desires the downfall of Artoria's kingdom.
Background Music End
After clashing with the Saxons within the towns and later inside the castle… Wol swung his Blade of Thought as the blades that was hovering begins to detect itself from his weapon as it swirls into a shredding vortex onto the incoming Saxon forces as they don't know what to do, only for them to be shredded completely into bits of pieces and blood all over before the blades returns back to Wol's weapon. Jeanne could only fathom to see the mess that he has made. She can only pray in hopes to maintain her sanity of her Master's recklessness. They continued to run along the way since it was just the two of them. People like Shirou won't join them since he's only there to help fend off the forces and stop them from protecting Morgan should they find out that their defenses are broken through. Soon, they reached the audience chamber where Morgan was seen sitting on her throne with an unimpressed look while her Master, Kupka was there as he knew they would arrive sooner or later.
"Well now… It appears we have guests, my Queen." Kupka said with his arms crossed as he stood next to his Servant.
"Indeed. I'm not surprised that my sister has decided not to face me but instead face the forces. It's truly baffling when I see it." Morgan continued. "But alas, we meet again Viator… or should I say Wol now?"
"It's over, Morgan. You know why." Wol said with a stoic expression as Morgan only sighed.
"Is your mind daft? You have yet to fight me. Even though you're human, you are no match for my skill after what happened the last time. If you're so willing to get yourself killed in our duel again, then allow me to ease your pathetic suffering." Morgan said with a cold gaze as Kupka cracked his fists.
"Heheh. You're just finding a place to die, brat. Your odds in fighting against a Servant are severely low." Kupka continued. "But don't worry, you won't live long enough the moment you face me-"
"Oh, there won't be any need, Kupka Dycedarg. Your purpose in your role is now finished." Morgan said as Kupka's eyes shifted to her in confusion.
"…What?" Kupka asked as Morgan proceeded to stand up.
"You may call yourself the leader of the Saxons, yes. But you're simply a fodder slacking around and doing nothing for your own personal gain. A shame that everything has come to an end for you." Morgan then slightly raises her right hand to conjure a red orb that was hovering on her palm. She then crushes it easily like a splosh of blood that is until…
[BA-THUMP…! GUSH! SPLOSH!]
Background Music | Persona 3 Reload OST - That Which Escaped From Darkness
"G-GUH!?" Kupka had spikes all over his chest that were spread out everywhere as he kneeled on the floor. Despite his status as a Master, he did not foresee this sudden betrayal. "Y-You bitch…! I… am your… Mas… ter…"
Kupka falls on the floor as his red Command Seals on the back of his hand fades away, ending the contract instantly. This shocked the two of what has happened here in Morgan's audience chamber.
"Why… Why would you do this!?" Jeanne demanded.
"Isn't it simple, getting rid of my Master is the only moral choice to do. After all, my existence is still bound to the planet's limitless lifestream as long as I continue to exist." Morgan continued. "By judging that Golden Command Seal of yours, Wol. Your's is truly a special case."
"What do you mean by that…?" Wol asked as he continued to glare at her.
"I suppose I'll lecture you on your feeble confusion." Morgan said as she would begin her explanation. "You see, we Heroic Spirits were unknowingly released by the Throne 150 years ago. The time of the era of what's known as the Old World, lands ravaged by war and the supernatural. Of course, the appearance of these Chimera nearly decimated humanity all across the world. I, myself, only went into hiding when I sensed my half-sister's existence. I waited and waited until the time arrived."
"So you were plotting, is that it? You even killed your own Master…" Jeanne demanded to know as Morgan would speak.
"I have. But you do know that all Heroic Spirits like me are bound to the planet's leyline itself. We have continued to live on for 150 thanks to the planet's limitless blessings. But I've already figured out the properties of that Golden Command Seals of yours. That Servant is bound to you, if you so happen to die. So does your Servant, too. But us? Even if our Masters die and lose their Command Seals, we'll be instead bound to the planet. Some might say it's a blessing… some would say it's a curse. Even if we die, we will become one with the planet instead of returning to the Throne. I have seen those Heroic Spirits die in front of me. Even when I killed that foolish knight Lohengrin. Not even he could return to where he belongs. Do you understand now? The price of humanity's folly? The Old World is gone. And the New World births anew… That… is the cycle of an imbalanced life." Morgan explained more of it as the two had already listened to her words of what's going on.
"Yet, you continue to resist and destroy everything that Lady Artoria has built. Is this your only nature? One that harbors hatred?" Jeanne retorted.
"My true nature is always destroying Artoria's life to begin with. I have never liked her, she always finds something to improve and constantly becomes one step ahead of me. I grew bitter and bitter overtime. I do not like her. I will crush her, kill her, destroy her, and tear her apart and everything she has accumulated over the past 150 years. You will not change me. I am a Berserker in the end… a witch hated by everyone. If I should become Camelot's enemy… then so be it. I will crush you as well." Morgan said as she summons her black spear as she stabs the floor.
Background Music | Persona 3 Reload OST - Unavoidable Battle
Beneath both Wol and Jeanne, they took a step back from an incoming blue flame pillar that nearly burned them alive. Morgan has no intentions of backing down. She intends to kill these two and enact her plans to destroy Camelot next. Wol wouldn't let it happen but knowing that his odds on fighting against a Servant… or rather a Heroic Servant is uncertain. He grit his teeth, knowing that he has to hold on to that very hope he desires. There is no turning back for him or Jeanne, this is all or nothing. They must prevail.
"You will have no chance in taking action. I am currently on borrowed time so I'll be quick with it. There is no chance of your survival." Morgan then proceeds to gather as much prana as she can as she is surging with magical energy.
"Master! She's preparing her Noble Phantasm! Stay near me!" Jeanne warned him as they don't have much time. "I thought that our training would help increase our chances in defeating her but I was wrong… I will also deploy my Noble Phantasm in order to withstand it."
"Got it!" Wol replied as he rushed at her side as she readied her flagged pole, gathering enough prana around her as she could. However, Morgan's prana gathering is much faster than hers as she begins her chant, raising her arms up high as she calls forth her destructive power.
"'Tis a ruinous dream I cannot bear to see…" Morgan chanted as spears stabbed on the ground between Wol and Jeanne as they braced themselves. "No recompense, no salvation to be had. At the world's end, a bird sings of tomorrow. Let this be a sign…"
And so, two Noble Phantasms were unleashed.
"Roadless…"
"Luminosite…"
"Camelot!"
"Eternelle!"
The blue flames downpour onto the two as Jeanne was right on time to deploy her defensive-focused Noble Phantasm as it shields them from the sweltering heat. Jeanne struggles to keep it active while Wol continues to resist it, gritting his teeth. Morgan's Noble Phantasm is considered to be too strong but as the blue flames die down… Jeanne panted as she kneeled on the floor as her body began to leak out mana despite her pact with Wol. The blue flames still slightly longer on the floor of the aftermath but the Saint of Orleans had already but nearly expended her prana as a result.
"Jeanne…" Wol called for her with worry.
"Master… I'm sorry…" Jeanne apologized. "It appears I've hit my limit… but fret not… I am still your Servant through and through. Never would I think that her Noble Phantasm would do numbers on me… Sorry, but… I must rest now… And sorry for… not sticking along the way… for the Avalon Festival…"
Jeanne then proceeds to turn into a small ball of light as it flies straight inside Wol's golden Command Seals.
"N-No…!" Wol slightly exclaimed as he clinged onto his hand that had his Command Seal on it.
"And now, the poor Saint of Orleans can no longer fight. All that remains… is you…" Morgan continues to glare coldly at him. "You have no chance in winning nor fighting back. So it's best for you to accept your death here and give up those foolish ambitions of saving this pitiful world. You are no savior. You are nobody. That's all there's to it."
She was right… he can't do anything anymore. He lost Jeanne and there's nothing he can do. He tightly clenched his Blade of Thought as he looked down on himself. The creeping darkness continues to drown him in many thoughts… That journey led him to become what the prophecy has foretold, to heal a dying world and solve internal conflicts in each nation. But he remembers the memories he has made along the way. From waking up in the gorge, meeting the knights of Camelot, meeting Servant Seeker Jeanne d'Arc, and throughout his small little journey. Everyone that Wol has met supports him, and is willing to aid him in order to end this conflict for good. But now, all of this was shattered. His journey would end in tragedy.
Background Music End
"Shut up…" Wol said as Morgan tilted her head.
"Excuse me?" Morgan glared.
"I said… shut up!" Wol exclaimed. "You talk about strength and power. And yet, all you do is trample beneath them. Jeanne… remains here in my hands… my Command Seals… I do not know who I am nor how I got here. I'm simply an unknown, clueless as I may be. But I found my light thanks to my Servant. I have no intentions of backing down nor facing defeat… I will achieve my victory against you!"
"Hmph. If you're so resistant, then I will teach you the terms of reality." Morgan said as she gathered prana again.
"Reality, huh?" Wol continued. "If this is the reality you envisioned… Then it can die alongside you!"
[BA-THUMP!]
Suddenly, his mind suddenly snaps as he is brought somewhere within his mindscape… he was seen standing on a watery surface with a galactic black hole from the far horizon. But he looked at a large chess piece of what appears to be a sword… and behind him was another large chess piece with a symbol of a maiden carrying a flag. However, the mysterious voice speaks to Wol once again… the same voice he knew upon his summoning of Seeker.
"You, who have continued to journey beyond the unknown future. Have triumphed against the odds. Now, thou shalt be blessed of the Servant of the Blade. One who shall carve the path into righteousness. Now, awaken."
His mind snaps back to reality where Morgan notices something wrong… Wol begins to gather blue motes of prana around him. He felt the same surge of energy once more as his golden command seals glowed brightly. But Wol knew what he had to do… he was no longer constrained by limit… but the limitless potential within him. He then proceeds to use his right hand… and proceeds to strike right into his chest…
[GUSH!]
Morgan was unamused… She saw Wol piercing his chest with his right hand as he was bleeding, dripping from his hand to arms. Wol winced in pain as he must withstand that pain. With enough force…
"RAAAAAH…!" Wol screamed painfully as he ripped something out from his chest.
[SPLATTER! SPLOSH!]
As the splatter of blood splashed on the marble checkered floor… Wol was seen holding the very same chess piece with a sword symbol on his hand while stained in his blood… Yet, he survived it, albeit painfully. He was breathing heavily until he calmed down… Then, he proceeds to raise his chest piece in the air as he is ready to summon a different Servant other than Seeker Jeanne d'Arc herself… but he knew his mind was set…
"Come to me and awaken… SABER!" Wol shouted loudly as the bright flash of light consumed him as Morgan covered herself from the bright flash of light.
"What the…!?" Morgan seemed perplexed but slightly furious that Wol had his tricks up his sleeve when he summoned something bound to his side. Suddenly, a dash who reveals to be a mysterious figure coming out of the light as it swings its sword at Morgan. She blocks it while sliding back to keep her distance without falling.
"Can't believe I was adventuring around the world and now I'm summoned here of all places? Not that I'm complaining, of course. But appearing out of nowhere really increases my coolness for sure!" The cheerful young man spoke with excitement.
The young man with black and white hair and blue eyes. His attire consists of mainly black and white tunic with blue accents, black pants, thigh-high armored boots, and a short white cape with a black edge. Aside from his boots, his left arm has a gauntlet, and he wears a set of faulds at his waist. A sword scabbard hangs at his left side, and red marks coat his right gloved arm.
"As for you…" The young man looked at Wol. "You must be the one who summoned me. Which means… you're my Master, right!?~"
"I am." Wol continued. "Right now, there's not much time. I require your help in defeating Morgan le Fay."
"Wait, hold on. Morgan? As in the Morgan le Fay? Her?" The young man then looked at Morgan for a quick second before looking back at his Master while thinking. "Ooooh! Now I get it! She's our enemy that my Paladins are up against. We may have fought against her in the past but to think that she's causing trouble again here? Now I get the picture!"
"You… I remember your face… You're…!" Morgan said as she immediately remembered him.
"Yuppers! Considering how you're still uncool to this day. I suppose I'll introduce myself properly. Master… I am known as Charlemagne, the once-and-future king and leader of the Twelve Paladins. My sword shall become your shield, as always!~ Now then, with the witch in front of us. As a contracted Saber-class myself… Let's show ourselves how cool we are!" The young man known as Charlemagne said as he unsheathed his sword, pointing directly at her as she had a disdain on her face.
Background Music | Metaphor ReFantazio OST - Warriors in Valour
"Tch… You are truly persistent, are you. Very well, I shall turn your corpse into nothingness when I'm done with you both!" Morgan exclaimed as she readied herself for a fight. She stabs her spear into a small rift as she stabs it inside. And outside of the rift that appeared behind his Servant, he blocks it immediately with ease.
"Hah! Your tricks won't work on me, I'll let you know!" Charlemagne taunted.
"How troublesome you are…" Morgan spat in arrogance. "If I must get rid of both of you then I shall have no mercy."
"No… We'll prevail no matter what!" Wol exclaimed as he would proceed to summon a new weapon that isn't the Blade of Thought… He noticed something that he was wielding… a sapphire shimmering sword with a white gold hilt with a blue gem in the middle of the hilt. But the sapphire blade itself had stars inside it as it was seemingly unique. Of course, his mind would also understand the new weapon's name. "Star Sword Epitaph… the Sword of Sky… So that's your name, huh?"
"What's wrong, Master?" Charlemagne asked. "You seemed spaced out."
"Nothing." Wol shook his head. "Let's deal with Morgan before she ends us all."
"You got it! Just leave it to me! You're free to help, though!" Charlemagne said as he would rush into battle. Wol maintained his focus on the battle as he rushed in as well.
"You may have contracted a new Servant with you, but the outcome is still the same!" Morgan said as Charlemagne swung his blade downward to pressure her. However, Wol's new Servant then quickly got out of the way where Wol was already at her distance as she didn't have enough time to react.
[CLANG! FWOOSH! STAB!]
Wol's new weapon, Epitaph, had thrusted with a pointed blade at the handle of the spear. It caused her weapon to fly out of her hand, spinning in the air before stabbing the floor.
"You…!" Morgan hissed as Wol proceeded to focus his blade to perform a striking attack.
"Got you!" Wol shouted as Epitaph's blade began to glow, swinging his sword to the right…
[CLANG!]
But his blade met with Morgan's sword with a similar color scheme as the spear. He didn't even know that she had a sword such as this.
"You think I only wielded a spear. A frail fool such as you wouldn't know…" Morgan said as she would keep her distance as she would proceed to dash back, entering within the rift behind before it closes.
"Master! Stay close! She hasn't escaped but… she's intending to strike us in a random direction! So keep close!" Charlemagne warned as Wol stood next behind to his Servant as he seemed uncertain of a potential attack.
[FWOOOOSH! SLASH! CLING!]
A sudden surprise attack out of nowhere, coming from their side at Wol's left. The Viator reacts enough to block the incoming downward attack as he resists the pressure until he musters his strength as he repels her away.
"I gotta say it to you. You are so not cool right now…" Charlemagne said with an unimpressed look as she sighs and scoffs it off.
"I do not care for your semantics. Now die, Wol. Your foolish ambitions will be laid to rest." Morgan said as he saw Morgan switching from her sword to her staff as she conjured up a ball of blue light as it sent out a homing laser grazing the floor as it was coming towards them. Both Wol and Charlemagne dodged out of harm's way.
"Master- no… Wol, right?" Charlemagne continued. "Is it okay if you'd let me use my Noble Phantasm on her? She doesn't know anything about what mine can do but it's totally worth the shot. Think you'll allow it?"
"Then go for it. I'll try to find an opening once she's exposed. But I'll provide you with a boost." Wol then proceeds to use his Golden Command Seal as it begins to glow brightly. This was his first time doing this but it must be done. "By the power of the Command Seal… Saber, let me give you strength and unleash your Noble Phantasm!"
With it, his first use of his Command Seal was used as it removes the first mark on the back of his hand. Charlemagne felt an oversurge of prana surrounding him as he was stoked and confident to use it against the dreaded witch.
"You got it!" Charlemagne exclaimed with excitement as he proceeded to unleash his Noble Phantasm for the first time as Morgan watched unprepared. "O everlasting Holy Light, O infinite colors, O my peerless knights! Demonstrate my royal prowess!"
Charlemagne then proceeds to fly up in the air within this spacious audience chamber as he summons many blades hovering near him as it was directly targeted at Morgan. He then points his sword as the blades shoot towards her as she protects herself as she covers her face with both arms as the weapons pierced the ground as it created a small impact like an explosion.
"Joyeuse Ordre!"
Charlemagne then dived down directly at her with his blade ready to be swung downwards to the left. The moment she noticed him coming at him… She prepared herself to defend herself from such a powerful attack that would potentially kill her…
[THOOOOOOOM! SWAAAAAAAAAAASH!]
Charlemagne clashes with Morgan through a strong impact as she backs away from a cloud of smoke. However, her chest was wounded as her staff was broken in half. But it was not over despite her survival…
[FWOOSH!]
Wol dashed out of the smoke as he took this chance to find an opening… and that opening attack would end it all.
"You're done…!" Wol shouted as Morgan widened her eyes, she was too late. But of course… she would then close her eyes, knowing that it was her loss.
"I'll say this to you, Wol… You are certainly strong. Tactical as you may be… My quest for revenge ends here… This victory… is yours…" Morgan said within her mind until that very moment…
[STAAAAAB! GUUUUSH!]
Background Music End
Wol had impaled Morgan's chest directly as blood gushed out violently. Everything was over… he had a heavy breathing as he saw his attack finally connecting. He had finally landed a hit against her. Not only that, her body was leaking out magical energy as her core was already broken thanks to his thrust attack. He then pulls out his Epitaph out of her chest as she falls to her throne as she was gravely wounded.
Background Music | Persona 5 OST - Regret
"My days of revenge and conquest… end here." Morgan continued. "I have been longing for it ever since the death of the Old World. Oh how I longed to bear this hatred against my half-sister…"
"You're still not letting this go, are you?" Wol asked.
"Indeed… No matter what you say or do… It is always and will be… part of my nature…" Morgan said as she placed her hand to her wounded chest. "My Spirit Core is already damaged because of you… And I will no longer return… to the Throne."
"To the planet's lifestream…" Wol added as she nodded.
"So you understand…" Morgan coughed out blood from her mouth as she spoke weakly. "I will not forgive you… nor to Artoria… nor to myself… As long as my hatred and disdain still lives. Camelot… will surely fall by the passage of time…"
"I understand your nature and your hatred, Morgan." Wol continued. "I know you can't be reasoned or convinced. But… I want to ask you this… Was living in this world worth it in the end?"
"Heheh…" Morgan chuckled as she closed her eyes before looking up at the broken hole on the ceiling as she looked at the clear sky as the Inversal Rain ended. "I do not know… we Heroic Spirits… don't have any regrets… as I do. I simply wanted to change the world for the better… To rule the country with an iron fist… but my time here in this world will conclude. But to answer your question, Wol. It… it's worth it… I have no… regrets…"
Morgan has a soft smile as her body proceeds to fade away into motes of prana as she finally disappears off from this world for good… What was now left was her throne…
"It's over…" Wol said to himself. "Jeanne… I did it…"
However, he noticed that something was wrong with him. He drops his sword as it fades away, his vision becomes drowsy and tired as he falls to the floor. Charlemagne noticed him as he rushed to his side.
"H-Hey! Master…! Master!" He could hear Charlemagne's voice but… he was tired. After all that struggle and effort in defeating Morgan thanks to his new Servant's help… All he needed to do was to rest… A soundful sleep that drags him away into a void… The war between the Arvess Alliance against Morgan le Fay and the Saxons… finally ends.
[TO BE CONTINUED…]
Author's Notes: Hello, everyone. Thank you for reading the sixth chapter. I know this was way LONG overdue but I finally managed to get this done after days (and perhaps weeks) of dealing with my long-time nemesis: Writer's Block. While the delay was long, of course. But I will get this first arc done by concluding it with an interlude. So there will be a very important announcement once the interlude is finished and published. Until then, peace out!