Notes: Still trying to get caught up with my backlog of Servants. I know the order must be out of whack by now.

FGO: Tales from the Second Archive
An FGO Fanfic by
Nate Grey (xman0123-at-aol-dot-com)
Chapter 17: Fae Friends, with M.O.R.!

Tama glanced at Mash over breakfast. "By the way, Master. Melusine has requested a meeting with you, at your earliest convenience."

That was... odd. Servants were, of course, encouraged to use the proper protocol to speak with Mash... but they rarely did so. Most were comfortable enough with simply approaching Mash as she moved throughout the complex, and Mash did not discourage that trend. She liked being seen as approachable. So did Shirou, although his role in security was perhaps off-putting for those less inclined to following the rules. Mash could be quite strict depending on which rules were being ignored, but the fact was she was far less likely to react with force... or she had been, before she got her own personal security team. Now she had to make sure THEY didn't react with force, which they would if they decided that Mash was being insulted or threatened.

Melusine, however, had never caused any real trouble that Mash could think of. In general, Melusine was very popular, and got along well with anyone who respected her strength or kept their distance. Mash could not think of a single time they had ever spoken, so she was quite curious as to what Melusine wanted, unless it was a formal introduction.

Mash nodded. "I'm not too busy today. We can meet right after breakfast."

Tama smiled. "I will make the arrangements, then."

Melusine arrived at Mash's apartment promptly after breakfast. She was not alone.

Mash stared, and began to doubt very much that this meeting was social in any way. "Um. I wasn't aware that you two knew each other."

"We have a common interest," Melusine said calmly.

Mash was having a very hard time not staring at Melusine's companion: Mordred, who seemed visibly annoyed, and somewhat eager to hit something. Or someone. "You never actually said what you wanted to talk about," Mash said slowly.

At this point, Mordred drew her sword.

Instantly, Mash was surrounded by Tama, Maki, and Sassy.

"Was there really a need for that?" Melusine sighed, frowning at Mordred.

"You're taking too long," Mordred complained. "Let's get this over with."

"What do you want?" Mash asked bluntly.

"Your cooperation," Melusine answered.

"Which you want to obtain by force?"

"That was supposed to be a last resort. I stress 'was' for obvious reasons."

"Why even involve Mordred? We could have talked about this calmly."

"I have my orders."

Mash blinked. "You are a Lancer. I refuse to believe that Scathach or Enkidu authorized this."

Melusine looked insulted. "I do not take orders from them."

Mash froze, glanced from Melusine to Mordred, and realized with growing horror who they might both take orders from. "Sassy, do me a favor and pull up a list of recently summoned Servants."

"Are you looking for anyone in particular?" Sassy asked.

"No, I'm looking for a blank spot."

"What... huh. There's one here, actually."

Mash sighed. "Altered with very powerful magic, no doubt."

Mordred nodded. "So you are aware of who we serve. That will make this simple." She pointed her sword at Mash. "Serve or perish."

Melusine placed a hand on Mordred's arm. "Stop that. There is no need to intimidate her."

"Of course there's no need. But I want to."

"What exactly is it that you want me to cooperate with?" Mash asked.

"We wish for you to join our glorious empire," Melusine replied. "That is all."

"Does this empire... have a name, or-?"

"That is currently being decided."

"Decided by?"

"I am not at liberty to say yet."

Mash rolled her eyes. "Let's say that I did decide to cooperate with this unnamed empire headed by an unnamed person or persons. Would you then be at liberty to tell me anything?"

"No. As I said, details are still taking shape. But we were sent to obtain your cooperation despite still being in the planning stages. I trust you can understand why that precaution was taken."

"Look, I appreciate that you're trying to keep things on the level, but I hope you can accept that until I know exactly what or who I'd be signing up with, you could basically be trying to trick me into agreeing to anything. Which defeats the purpose of you trying to be on the level. So here's the deal: come back to me with at least a separate representative of the person you're taking orders from, and a list of short-term goals they have in mind, and we can talk about me backing this operation. I'm not saying no, but I need much more information."

"That is acceptable," Melusine said quickly, cutting across Mordred, who had been about to respond in a way that did not seem favorable. "We will expect your answer by tomorrow morning."

Mash frowned. "You can expect it whenever you want, but until you meet my terms, no deal."

"It is not wise to antagonize-"

"The unnamed person that you serve. I get it. I also got it. And by 'it' I mean any number of powerful Servants who will rush to my defense. So the scare tactics aren't working. At least, not when it's only two of you. So come back with either more details or a better threat."

"I pray you do not regret that choice," Melusine warned, dragging Mordred away by the arm.

"Was that wise?" Sassy asked when the pair were gone. "Mind you, I do not scare easily, and I fear no human weapons. Fae ones, however, wielded by such a person as we all think would be wielding them... is no mere threat."

"I know," Mash agreed. "I've got BB in my pocket for emergencies. Though that tends to backfire sometimes. But Sitonai has never failed to protect me from direct threats, so long as her family isn't involved, and it doesn't seem like they are. Shirou could get me a few Rulers on short notice. And the Berser-girls... well, they aren't afraid of magic, at least."

"I would argue that not being sane enough to fear an obvious threat is not a point in their favor," Sassy noted.

"Do you want extra bodies between you and the obvious threat or not?" Mash demanded sourly.

Thankfully, Sitonai took the threat against Mash very seriously... but she did not quite react in the way that Mash had hoped.

"Honestly, Mash, you chose a lousy person to pick a fight with, and my people are kinda stretched thin at the moment."

"I didn't pick a fight, they came to my apartment!" Mash argued.

"But you did rile them up, and Mordred is always riled up in the first place. I can loan you Gorgon for the day, and I'll have Giant Mark II's sights trained on your apartment. But you'd have to sign a waiver stating that you will not hold us responsible for any damage to your apartment, person, pets, or roommates suffered from a missile strike."

Mash frowned. "You do understand that I want you to protect me, right? Your solution sounds more damaging than the threat itself."

Sitonai shrugged. "What can I say, we're thorough... and short-staffed, otherwise I'd give you someone who could protect you in such a tight space without the ensured property damage. I hate to say it, but you'd be better off with BB. Or even, well... my mom. She'd compliment your foxies well enough, anyway."

Mash sighed. "Fine, I'd rather have her. You can keep Gorgon. But... is there any way to limit it to one missile?"

Sitonai rolled her eyes. "Mash, I can't guarantee total devastation to the target with one missile. And you need that, if you're dealing with who we all assume you are. Anything less is a waste of missile, and I don't waste missiles."

Irisviel was happy to help Mash, which was good. But Irisviel seemed to think talking to their foes was the best tactic, which was bad, in Mash's view. Still, Irisviel had highlighted a key point that could prove useful.

"We need to focus on the fact that this recently summoned High Queen is not, in fact, Mordred's mother. It's possible Mordred hasn't realized that, and is only obeying out of blind loyalty."

"That doesn't really sound like Mordred," Tama disagreed. "Anyway, all my interactions with Mordred seem to suggest that she isn't a total dunce where magic is concerned. My assumption is her mother taught her a few things."

"But who better than an alternate version of the person who taught Mordred, to be able to fool Mordred? As things stand, our best option is to remove Mordred as a threat. If we can do that without expending a huge amount of magic, even better."

"But even if it worked, that would still leave Melusine, one of the most formidable Lancers we have to date," Mash added. "I'd like to think talking her down is a more viable option, but we don't exactly have anything to offer her that Morgan can't provide."

"Maybe we do," Tama murmured thoughtfully. "Melusine joined the DRA-DOLS. Surely she values her fellow idols. Perhaps we can get them to talk her down. And if not, their combined might could be enough to hold her off temporarily."

"It's an idea," Mash agreed. "But I don't know who their manager is. See if you can get Sassy on that, she's good at snooping."

"Already done," Sassy said as she walked in. "It's a no-go. The DRA-DOLS didn't have a manager, until very recently. It's not a single person, however." She handed Mash a sparkling brochure.

"What is Eli-Tainment Enterprises, ELC?" Mash demanded after glancing at the brochure.

Sassy sighed and snatched the brochure back. "Why do I even bother? The manager, obviously. More obviously, an entertainment organization created primarily to manage the careers of the Elizabeths and all associated performers. Including the DRA-DOLS."

"Oh." Mash thought for a moment. "I don't suppose there's a way to imply that blackmailing me is a bad look for an idol?"

"It wouldn't matter if it was. The very person you're currently at odds with, is the very same person who suggested the creation of the ELC. So the Eli-chans would be more likely to deny you help, or attack you on principle."

"But not the Mecha Eli-chans, surely?"

"Not specifically them, no. Although if Lizzie9 gets dragged into this, the Mechas are more likely to side with her, just to keep an eye on her. It's an unnecessary risk I wouldn't take. Reasoning with Melusine is your best option, but leave the Eli-chans out of it. And, of course, there is always the option of joining, instead of resisting. Surely there must be benefits. This is a queen we're talking about."

"This is an evil queen that is trying to force me to join her," Mash pointed out.

"Surely there must be benefits," Sassy repeated.

Mash shook her head and looked at Tama and Maki. "You two think I shouldn't join her, right?"

Tama and Maki glanced at each other. "Mordred was pretty rude about it," Tama admitted, "and I know you only asked for more information as a way to stall. But more information would actually be the best thing. And if that only means listening to their pitch, I don't see the harm. Really, if every gathering of Servants would at least show up and introduce themselves as they're forming, your job would be a lot easier. That doesn't mean you have to join, but we won't get a better chance to find out what the queen is up to."

Despite her preparations, Mash began to lose ground immediately.

This began with a text from Melusine, requesting to meet in the Conference Room at noon. Mash agreed, figuring at least her apartment would not be damaged if a battle broke out.

Unfortunately, Melusine's side arrived three hours early and effectively barricaded themselves in with magic, so there was no chance to scout the location for traps.

Even so, Mash was confident in her own side. Tama and Maki would do anything to protect her, Sassy was technically bound by contract to do the same, and Irisviel could essentially miracle her way out of most obstacles (though she preferred simply being extra nice to avoid conflicts). None of which would work for long, if the opposing side brought their full might to bear.

So Mash was understandably worried when she walked into the Conference Room, and saw who awaited her.

Melusine and Mordred were there, of course, each kneeling on opposite sides of a newly installed throne. Upon the throne was Morgan le Fay, the High Queen. And lurking behind the throne was... a thing. It was giant, and excess mana was flowing off it in such ridiculously rapid waves that it hurt Mash's eyes to look at for long.

"Welcome," Morgan said calmly. "Do come in, my honored guests."

"Is all of this really necessary for a conversation?" Mash asked.

"I was under the impression that you desired more information, and a different representative. Has this changed?"

"No," Mash admitted. "But I also wasn't looking for a fight. I don't think the feeling is mutual."

Morgan blinked. "I see where the misunderstanding lies. Rest assured, my knights accompany me today purely because I commanded them to. But they are not here for battle, merely for my own comfort. I can see how others would find them intimidating, but this only proves that I was correct in my selection."

Mash sighed. "Well... apparently you want me to join you. But I have no idea what all that would mean."

"Ah, yes. I would like you to become my final knight: Morash."

Mash blinked. "I... just... why?"

"With only a glance, I could tell that mana was being wasted in petty squabbles and unnecessarily grand displays of magic. I want to change that, immediately. My knights would strictly enforce all rulings concerning mana conservation."

Mash glanced at the giant behind the throne. "Um..."

"I see you've noticed Mormanamart. Rest assured, her mana levels are strictly monitored."

Mash stared at Morgan in disbelief. "So it's not that she's wasting mana, so much as it is that wasting mana is part of her approved mana allowance?"

"Precisely. Although, as her intimidation factor is clearly effective, I do not consider it a waste at all."

Mash shook her head. "Look, I have no problem with conserving mana, especially if it means the excess doesn't go to Heavenly Hosting. But I'm not really sure why you need to be in charge of it, or why you want me."

"I think perhaps she may want you so she can be in charge of it," Sassy suggested to Mash. "Anything you're a part of would automatically be legitimized. As for why her, well... how many Servants do you expect to challenge her?"

Mash gave Sassy an annoyed glance. "You're supposed to be on my side, in case you forgot."

"I would prefer to be on the side that gets us out of here mostly undamaged."

At that point, Mash decided to throw caution to the wind. "Mordred, don't be fooled! She isn't your real mother!"

Mordred snorted. "You idiot, I know that! You think I don't know my own mother's voice, scent, or mind? I could tell at a glance that she wasn't my mother. There is no madness in her eyes."

"Then why are you obeying her?" Mash asked in confusion.

"She gave me everything that my mother and father never did. She acknowledged me. She made me captain of her knights. And she named me her heir. Why wouldn't I serve her?"

Morgan frowned. "I can appreciate that you are desperate, but seeking to overturn my family is crossing a line. One that I am prepared to cross in return. This is your last chance. Join me, or there will be grave consequences."

"Master, I'm not so sure that resisting is worth this fight," Tama murmured to Mash. "And if we can't guarantee your safety, then we wouldn't be much of a security team."

"And it's not like we have any real proof that she's evil," Maki added. "I mean, okay, the intimidation was a bit iffy, but if the Eli-chans like her, and she could put up with them long enough to get them organized, how bad could she really be?"

"So now I'm the only one against this?" Mash demanded. "Irisviel, surely you-"

"I'm sorry, Mash," Irisviel said abruptly. "I don't think I'll be of any use, if you want to fight. But I can't really tell you why, unless you solve this peacefully."

With a sigh of frustration, Mash turned back to Morgan. "Okay, fine! I guess I'm in!"

"Excellent." Morgan snapped her fingers. "Mormanamart, power down."

At once, the giant dissolved, to reveal a much smaller form.

"Chloe?!" Mash shouted as the girl came forward and greeted Irisviel with a hug. "You're with them?!"

"Yup!" Chloe said with a big grin. "I'll never get a better chance to get even with those stuck up goddesses, and the queen promised me more mana than I could ever need!"

"I wanted to warn you," Irisviel explained to Mash, "but I couldn't sense Chloe's mana right away. That armor must have a blocking function."

"Or it radiates so much mana that you can't sense that of the person wearing it, more likely," Mash countered.

"I suppose," Irisviel admitted. "But, now aren't you glad that we didn't get into a fight?" she asked happily.

"Not exactly. If anything, I'm reluctantly impressed by Morgan's ability to get what she wants through manipulation."

"Which may not be the worst thing to have on our side," Sassy added. "Particularly if it means she isn't attacking us."

"I'm not wild about being renamed Morash, though," Mash complained.

"You think I was crazy about Mormanamart?" Chloe asked. "The benefits more than make up for the names, trust me."

Fortunately, Chloe was absolutely right.

A few hours later, Mash was seated in her armchair, wearing Ruler Pajamas. They were not, as she'd first thought, Morgan's personal pajamas (although they did have Morgan's face printed on the front and back). But they supposedly had the same attributes as Ruler Servants (which appealed to Mash solely because she knew of a certain Caster that might be stalking her while she slept), and even if that was false, they were extremely comfortable.

In her lap was a report on the precise mana use of various Servant groups, which had been very eye-opening. Apparently, the Argoknots used mana in their arts and crafts, though not an excessive amount. On the flip side, and rather expectantly, the BIG Sisters used a colossal amount, though that was more due to their existing at all. And even they did not exceed their allowed portion. Naturally, Casters almost always exceeded their allowed amount, but due to some creative bookkeeping, this had largely gone unnoticed, or at least unpunished. Mash wasn't looking forward to that confrontation, but felt the odds of Morgan being overwhelmed by any spellcaster were slim.

Also, the threats from Mordred had stopped, now that they were on the same side. But the threats were replaced with demands for constant updates on mana offenders, which Mordred took far too much enjoyment in confronting and punishing on the spot. But, other than the occasional resistance from a Gilgamesh, there was no major opposition to the mana conservation effort. Mash suspected that no one wanted to draw Heavenly Hosting's attention back to the complex, as their status had been uncertain but oddly quiet since Space Ishtar had taken over.

Going over daily mana reports added a significant pile to Mash's already hefty workload, so Sassy offered to help, which Mash gratefully accepted. This was one area where Sassy's bluntness was actually desired, since Mordred was just as blunt, and Mash's recommendations for lighter punishment were usually ignored.

At some point, Mash became vaguely aware of someone knocking at the apartment door. Figuring Tama or Maki would get it, Mash continued to study the report in her lap.

A moment later, Tama stuck her head into the room. "Apologies, Master, but you have some important guests."

"That's fine," Mash said, putting the report to the side.

"I would like to think we classify as almost family!" Chloe complained as she dragged Shirou in by his arm.

"You can think it all you want, doesn't make it true," Mash replied. "I'm guessing this isn't entirely a social call?"

Chloe pouted. "Why would you assume that?"

"Because you have this 'I want something from you' look that's very obvious, Chloe. Always has been. And I'm not related to you, so that I know that, means you want stuff from me a lot."

"Or you are constantly around someone she wants stuff from," Shirou corrected. "Namely, me."

Chloe stuck out her tongue at him. "Okay, fine, I do want something from Mash. But so do you!"

Mash eyed Shirou curiously. "Is she right?"

Shirou sighed. "Unfortunately. While I have no issue with you two being Knights of Mor, it does create an issue."

"What kind of issue?" Mash asked.

"The kind where your High Queen has demanded space in the Conference Room for her throne to be installed, so she can observe meetings. Also the kind where we can't say no, since your President immediately backed her up and asked for, and I quote, 'a maple-scented executive chair', which I am certain I didn't even know was a thing until now."

Mash rolled her eyes. "And is the issue that we can't provide these things, or that they would be costly?"

Shirou arched an eyebrow. "Neither. Although both chairs would almost certainly have to be created with magic, and while Morgan will likely provide her own, convincing her to make Pauline's might be tricky. The bigger issue is they're throwing their collective weight around, and I don't like it. Morgan isn't even technically one of our Bosses."

"Technically, they're both two of mine, though," Mash added. "I'd like to keep them happy. Or at least quiet. Let me ask Morgan about the chairs. Which only leaves what Chloe wants from me."

"I want to move in here," Chloe said at once.

Mash blinked. "Why?"

"I know you've got an empty room, and we're in the same knight order now. I doubt you'd prefer Mordred."

"Those aren't great reasons for you to move in. They're great reasons to put my junk in there instead."

"Hey, why do I have to convince you?" Chloe asked. "You'd be lucky to have me! I won't leave paint everywhere, I actually like you, and I'll play with your kitties! There's no downside!"

"Except for the part where I don't want or need another roommate," Mash pointed out.

"I would consider it a rather large personal favor if you let her move in," Shirou added.

Mash stared at him. "Wait. She's living with you right now, isn't she?"

Shirou frowned. "Not if you let her move in, she isn't..."

"I guess... it isn't impossible," Mash murmured. "And we do have the room..."

"If Da Vinci isn't done scheming against you, it wouldn't hurt to have an extra pair of hands around."

"Hands which will be holding weapons!" Chloe promised.

"I've had far worse roommates," Mash sighed. "And at least you asked first."

The benefits to having Chloe as a roommate began to add up immediately. Mash did not sleep, but Chloe did. And since alarm clocks weren't so effective at waking Chloe, Tama and Maki had to. Mash soon realized that Chloe was, in general, a slob... and yet still not the messiest roommate Mash had ever had, since at least Chloe's mess was largely contained to her own room. And the more time that Tama and Maki spent cleaning up after Chloe, the less time they had to fight with each other over Mash's affections.

Even better, Chloe was not actively trying to be a slob, and could be convinced to help with chores occasionally. Though, Tama and Maki were far better at them, so while the effort was appreciated, Mash asked Chloe to focus on combat training. Mash wasn't convinced that Da Vinci had given up on revenge, and wanted to be ready for an eventual attack.

What Mash was overlooking, however, was that she was now working for a peerless spellcaster. And even if Morgan wasn't as intelligent as Da Vinci, which was arguable to begin with, she far outstripped Da Vinci in terms of power and intimidation. And Da Vinci was easily smart enough to know that. So there wasn't going to be any eventual attack. What there would be, however, was far more subtle plots that could not necessarily be traced back to Da Vinci without some real effort.

The day began very well for Mash.

She had a pleasant breakfast with all of her roommates. It felt odd to think of them that way, but Maki, Tama, and even Sassy, had made themselves part of her life with little effort, and Chloe seemed well on the way to doing the same. Although the way Chloe was doing that, was by pretending she wasn't the sole person there for contractual purposes. Mash had figured out very quickly that Morgan, or Mordred, had ordered Chloe to move in, or at least strongly suggested it. But Chloe didn't mind it, and neither did Mash.

Sadly, the peaceful morning did not last long.

Shirou arrived promptly after breakfast with bad news. "I just heard from Queen of Sheba. Da Vinci has replaced her as the Caster second. Gilgamesh signed off on it."

Mash frowned. "In that case, there's nothing I can really do, except brace myself for a headache. She wouldn't dare try anything during a meeting. Except make a bunch of aimless proposals to waste time. But that would insult her own intelligence, and turn the other Bosses against her."

"It's not like many of them are fond of her as it is," Chloe pointed out. "She may not care. With Gilgamesh's support, she doesn't need much else. But at least Mash won't be in any danger. This job has serious perks, and the High Queen looks after her own."

Mash couldn't argue, since Chloe being there at the moment was proof enough of that. It was too bad that Chloe didn't have an excuse to be at the meeting, though.

Once again, Mash had severely underestimated the High Queen, only this time, it worked out tremendously in Mash's favor.

Da Vinci was indeed the new Caster second, but if she had thought that would be enough to intimidate or annoy Mash, she was sadly mistaken.
Morgan's throne was less a seat, and more a monument to taking up so much space that sharing should have been obligated, and yet, infuriatingly, that clearly wasn't about to happen. Even Mash was somewhat disgusted by the sight of it, but since the throne was strategically placed behind her own seat, she wasn't about to complain.

That was only the beginning of Morgan's intimidation, however. It was true that Chloe hadn't been able to attend... but she was the only Knight of Mor who hadn't. Mordred was now the Saber second, which couldn't have been comfortable for anyone involved, but it got Mordred into the meeting. Likewise, Melusine was now the Lancer second, although since Scathach and Enkidu traded roles so often, this didn't seem to be a major adjustment for Scathach, who was the acting Lancer Boss at the moment. And, of course, every Knight of Mor was required to wear their official insignia while on duty: a badge with a chibified, glaring Morgan on it. It looked absolutely ridiculous, but Mash was tempted to kiss it every time she caught Da Vinci glaring at it in return.

The meeting proceeded without incident, although with plenty of glances and stares over the realization that Morgan had silently but visibly asserted herself in their collective face. Mash learned that there was an actual meaning behind the knight order's name, other than sheer vanity: their official title was The Knights of Mana Observance Regulation. Which, admittedly, sounded precisely like a name Morgan had invented on the spot, but it was accurate enough. Beyond that, orders from the Knights were given highest priority, even over the Security Force. This made sense to Mash, as overuse of mana correlated directly to enormous damages, which then had to be repaired by spending outrageous amounts of QP. Though, admittedly, again, she still had some doubts if Morgan was the best person to be in charge of such a thing. Why, it almost seemed as bad as putting BB in charge of the Knights. And it didn't help that BB had given Morgan an approving nod, their only interaction thus far.

Da Vinci was clearly in a bad mood once the meeting ended, and sulked out after Gilgamesh. Mash did her best not to laugh at the sight, but it was very close thing. The urge died when she noticed that Morgan was gesturing for her to approach the throne. Mash was not a total stranger to knighthood, but she knew that Morgan was somewhat strict about certain aspects, and knights showing their queen the proper respect was among the strictest, obviously. So, with some reluctance, Mash walked over and knelt before Morgan, despite several others still being in the room.

"I find our arrangement very pleasing, Morash," Morgan commented. "I knew you would be an excellent addition to my followers."

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Mash said, keeping her head lowered.

"Gratitude from you is unnecessary. Rather, it is I who will show appreciation now. Please, receive this reward, and enjoy it with all grace and zeal that I would expect from any of mine."

Mash blinked as something was placed in her hand. It was a coupon. "Fifty percent off any event hosted by Eli-Tainment Enterprises, ELC?" she murmured in slight disbelief.

"I suggest you book well in advance. They are quite popular."

"I'll do that," Mash said softly, still slightly stunned.

"She gave you a coupon?!" Sassy cried in outrage a few minutes later. "She's a queen! Where are the legendary weapons and the countless riches?!"

"In her armory and vault, respectively, I would guess," Mash sighed. "I don't know that she routinely dips into either to reward her people. But I'm not exactly displeased with the other stuff she gave me. And it's not like I need weapons or riches."

Sassy glared at her. "Well, I do. Protecting you isn't easy or cheap."

Mash blinked. "Isn't it, though? Da Vinci is the only real enemy I have, and the last rotten thing she did to me was... sending you, frankly. She's been pretty quiet since Lisa came along. So exactly what are you complaining about?"

Sassy put her hands on her hips. "The very fact that you are totally unaware of further threats, doesn't mean they don't exist. It could mean that I am being enormously effective."

"But it doesn't," Tama chimed in. "There haven't been any other threats. Which isn't to say that Sassy isn't good at her job, only that there have been precious few chances for her to do her job at all. Which is good."

"No, it isn't!" Sassy hissed. "If we are untested, then when a real threat actually-"

"This is just more of you wanting me to be miserable, right?" Mash interrupted.

"Partially," Sassy admitted. "But I do like to stay in shape, and up to date. Without threats to oppose, I fear I am lacking in both areas."

"You could stage some mock battles with us Knights," Chloe offered. "Mordred's always up for that."

"Mordred would take mock battles entirely too seriously," Mash disagreed.

"Which is exactly why it would be an excellent test," Sassy countered, grinning wickedly. "Chloe, make the arrangements."

"Sure, no prob. Oooh, we can make little target dummies with Da Vinci's face, and have them be innocent villagers that get caught in the crossfire!"

"Liking it slightly more now," Mash admitted with a small grin.

Next Chapter: Advanced Quest: Proofless Hero

The original Altaria has FINALLY been summoned! HUZZAH! Aaaaand we have no more materials to upgrade her skills. Feels bad, man.

Endnotes:

I didn't even try to get Britomart, as I'm attempting to focus more on NP upgrades for the Servants I do have... unless the new Servant in question looks or plays really neat... or the banner has multiple neat-looking Servants, so the odds are somewhat better. Or that's how I try to justify it, mostly.

Servant Spotlight!

Name: Chloe von Einzbern
Nicknames: Mormanamart, Gal!Emiya, Leech, Mana Vampire, Shirou's Sister
Class: M.O.R.K.

Equipment:
Sparkly Lip Gloss: Exactly what it sounds like. Boosts Luck.
"Mormanamart" Armor: Enchanted armor that Chloe wears only while on duty. It is best suited for enduring attacks, and has limited offensive features.

Skills:
EmiyAim: EX
What you might expect from certain Emiyas: exceedingly accurate aim, and a natural mastery of her preferred weapons.

Kissy Face: A - C
She absorbs mana chiefly through her lips. Works best when she has the target's permission, which seems to be rare...

Noble Phantasm:
Fae Blade Emibern: B+ - C+
An enchanted sword forged for Chloe's personal use by the High Queen. While powerful, it has not yet become accustomed to its wielder. Chloe can boost its rank temporarily by flooding the blade with mana from her armor, but doing so renders the armor unusable for a prolonged period.

Preferences:
Favorite Servant: Shirou, because he's fun to bully.
Least Favorite Servant: Everyone in Heavenly Hosting.
Partner in Crime: Heracles, but only when Sitonai loans him to her.
Hobbies: Kissing, necking, making out, pranking, not getting caught unless she wants to.
Personal Quote: A kiss a day, does my body good! But hourly kisses would be better...

Servant Organization Spotlight!

The Knights of M.O.R. (Mana Observance Regulation)
Ensuring the complex's mana conservation rules are routinely updated and strictly enforced.
Members: Morgan le Fay (Queen/Founder), Mordred (Captain), "Morusine", "Mormanamart", "Morash" (Admin)
We are always watching...

Eli-Tainment Enterprises, ELC
The Ultimate Idol Experience Made Affordable!
Member Groups: Eli-chans (OG, Brave, Hallie, Cinder, Lizzie9), DRA-DOLS
Official Entertainers of the High Queen!