Hello, everyone. ThunderReborn from 2025. This chapter has originally been edited by TM11 when this chapter was originally released. On April 1st, 2020, this chapter was edited again by Darklord331. Finally, in April 2025, this chapter was edited again by my current beta reader, Waroyer123. Thank you and I hope you enjoy the story.
Bleach is owned by Tite Kubo, TV Tokyo, Viz Media, Studio Pierrot... and other people.
Fate/Stay Night is the property of Konoki Nasu, Type-Moon, Aniplex
All other references of characters or abilities are not mine.
Please support the official release.
"Hello." -Normal talking
"Hello." –Ichigo's thoughts.
"Hello." – Zanpakutō speaking
"Hello." – Zanpakutō thoughts.
Kon'nichiwa [Translation of Hello]
Chapter 31:
[Ichigo's servants will be using their names, Sakura's servants will be using their sins, and the summoned servants will be using their class.]
Opening Scene: Artoria (Saber) and Artoria VERSUS Mordred (Envy)
"I don't want to do this, but you gave me no choice!" Saber yelled as she swung her sword at Envy.
"I don't care what you want. All I want is to kill you!" Envy shouted, blocking Saber's strikes and counterattacking. The two continued this fierce clash, unaware of the new combatant charging toward them.
"GAH!" Artoria roared as she swung down with Excalibur, aiming for Envy. Envy dodged the attack just in time.
"GGRR!" Envy growled, turning to face the new threat. She saw another version of her father, dressed in black instead of blue, with cold yellow eyes glaring at her. Seizing the opportunity, Artoria used Envy's moment of shock to her advantage, continuing her relentless assault. Envy barely managed to dodge this aggressive version of her father.
Saber stood frozen, shocked to see another version of herself summoned.
"Come on, my other half! Let's discipline our unruly child!" Artoria yelled.
"Unruly... child? I'LL SHOW YOU UNRULY!" Envy shouted, raising her sword. Saber and Artoria recognized the blade—it had once been part of their armory in Camelot.
"Clarent." The blade began to glow red as Envy infused it with her energy. Red lightning sparked around them. Artoria gathered her strength, black flames swirling around her sword.
"Clarent Blood Arthur!" Envy screamed as she swung her sword downward.
"EXCALIBUR!" Artoria cried, matching her opponent's strike. The red lightning and black fire collided in a thunderous explosion, pushing upwards, and creating a massive blast that reached toward the sky. Envy glared at both Sabers, preparing to charge again, but then she received a message from her Mistress.
"Envy, Gluttony is having serious issues with her opponent. Go rescue her and return to base."
"But Mistress!"
"Do you dare question me?"
"No, Mistress," Envy replied quickly, and the connection was cut.
"DAMN IT!" Envy yelled her helmet once again covering her face. She abandoned the fight, retreating.
Scene Change: Gilgamesh versus Gilgamesh (Greed)
Greed arrived at a nearby light pole and observed the ongoing battles.
"It seems my beloved little king is here again. I should try to capture her and make her mine." Lost in thought, Greed failed to notice someone approaching.
"What is this? Another version of my beloved little king, but in black... so much colder than the other one. Which one shall I choose? Why not both?" Greed mused. Suddenly a spear was hurled at Greed's back. Greed barely managed to jump away, turning to face his attacker with a rage-filled expression.
"WHO DARES ATTACK ME?!" Greed shouted, summoning twenty portals, each with a weapon ready to launch. He caught sight of a female version of himself.
"WHO DARES MAKE A HORRIBLE COPY OF ME?!"
"You're not wrong. No one dares try to copy you, because I am a superior version of you," Gilgamesh responded coolly, drawing her twin blades.
"YOU DARE INSULT ME FURTHER?!" Greed roared, firing weapons from his Gates of Babylon. Gilgamesh gracefully danced around the projectiles, infuriating Greed even more. He fired even more weapons at her, but she continued to evade.
"All part of the plan," Gilgamesh thought. When she noticed the male version of herself, a few scenarios ran through her mind. She approached him slowly, realizing he was unaware of her presence.
"Either he hasn't learned the wisdom and tactical skills a ruler would gain from defending Uruk... or he's so arrogant he never bothered to learn them," she thought.
Greed, still mesmerized by the battle between Artoria and Envy, was completely distracted. Gilgamesh summoned a normal spear and fired it at him, knowing it wouldn't harm him.
Greed seemed easier to anger than her, as he continued firing weapons recklessly. Unlike him, Gilgamesh had learned how to wield and utilize some of the Noble Phantasms in her Gates of Babylon. However, since she wasn't the true owner, they were one rank lower than normal.
"Come on, Faker. Is this the best you can do?" Gilgamesh taunted, further enraging Greed.
"I'LL SHOW YOU!" Greed screamed, grabbing another weapon from his Gates of Babylon. Before he could use it, he received a message from his Mistress.
"Greed, return to base."
"Seems Mistress has decided to call us back," Greed mumbled as he vanished. Gilgamesh shook her head and walked away, preparing to regroup with her master.
Scene Change: Scáthach versus Cú Chulainn (Sloth)
Scáthach and Sloth stood facing each other.
"Meistr [Master in Welsh, this time, I will defeat you," Sloth growled.
"Myfyriwr [Student in Welsh, you have much to learn before you can defeat me," Scáthach replied, each of them holding their spears at the ready. They charged at one another, and after a few exchanges, Scáthach realized that this Cú Chulainn was not the same one she had trained.
"You're not the myfyriwr who I trained to become the legendary hero who defied Medb," Scáthach remarked.
"You're right," Sloth replied, "I am not him. It seems I'm from a different reality."
He continued, explaining how, during his training with her, he had been told he was weak and needed to train harder. Eventually, he had grown tired of her teachings, left, and encountered Aífe.
"My sister," Scáthach hissed.
"She took me in and cared for me. When she learned I was your apprentice, she decided to help me. She taught me a more ruthless approach to the spear. I soon killed a Curruid and used its skull and spine to form my Gáe Bolg. She made me armor from its remains and released me to the world. I desired to become the strongest. I fought any battle I encountered and became known as Yr Anghenfil Du [The Black Monster]. My armor and spear are soaked in the blood of my victims. After transforming into something similar to Curruid, I became confident in my abilities. I returned to challenge you. We fought for many days, using our spears and runic magic. In the end, you killed me by stabbing me in the heart," Sloth said, revealing a hand-sized scar on his chest.
"This time, I will be the winner!" Sloth declared.
Scáthach charged at him, resuming her attack. Sloth dodged each strike, using his tail to lash at her. She swiftly jumped away from the attack and countered by charging at him, attempting to strike with her spear. Sloth narrowly avoided the blows, and in retaliation, he tried to stab her with his own spear. Scáthach twisted her body, narrowly evading each attack.
Using Sloth's moment of distraction, Scáthach kicked him in the chest, using his body as a springboard to create some distance. She then summoned a few lines of Celtic Runes and fired them at Sloth, transforming each set into elemental blasts. Sloth used his spear to block each attack. Scáthach used the distraction to leap into the air, raising Gáe Bolg, which began to glow with a fierce red light.
"Very well," Sloth said as he raised his own Gáe Bolg, and it began to glow crimson.
"GÁE…" Scáthach yelled.
"BOLG!" Sloth yelled as the two servants threw their weapons, and upon impact, they collided. A blast of red energy erupted, kicking up a cloud of dust. As the dust cleared, Scáthach and Sloth stood face to face, each holding their respective Gáe Bolg, now returned to their hands.
"Sloth, return to base," Sakura ordered. They were about to resume their fight when Sloth let out a sigh.
"What?" Scáthach asked.
"Looks like my Mistress is calling us all back," Sloth said, leaping away.
Scene Change: Raikou vs. Medusa (Gluttony)
Medusa appeared, taking a deep sniff and licking her lips.
"I smell something delicious," Gluttony thought. Before Gluttony could make a move, several arrows were shot at her. Gluttony transformed her hair into snakeheads, devouring the arrows.
"It seems that didn't work," Raikou remarked as she confronted Gluttony.
"You smell delicious. Can I get a bite?" Gluttony asked.
"No," Raikou responded firmly. "Mama Raikou needs to punish you. You're going to spoil your dinner."
"No! Only Mistress can punish me!" Gluttony cried out as she sent her hair snakes toward Raikou. Raikou dismissed her quiver and bow, drawing her katana, Doujigiri Yasutsuna.
"Raikō Ōda [Lightning Strike]!" Raikou yelled, swinging her sword down and firing a blast of violet lightning at the hair snakes, destroying them in a surge of energy.
"GAHHH!" Gluttony screamed in agony. Raikou seized the opportunity, charging at Gluttony. Before Raikou could get any closer, Gluttony turned to face her, her eyes glowing white. Suddenly, Raikou's body felt stiff. While she could still move, it was far slower than before. Gluttony's tail wrapped around Raikou as she continued to stare at her.
"It was fun while it lasted, but I think it's time for me to finish you," Gluttony taunted. Raikou struggled to break free. "You're probably wondering why you can't move. Well, it's simple. It's because of my eyes." Gluttony allowed Raikou a closer look at her eyes. Her irises were black, and her pupils were rectangular, the same purple as her hair. "My eyes are known as Cybele, the Mystic Eyes of Petrification. Anyone with Rank B or lower Mana will immediately be petrified, while those with Rank A may or may not be affected, depending on the conditions." Gluttony licked Raikou's face. "MMM. Tasty." She grinned. "SAY GOODBYE!" she roared, opening her mouth wide and beginning to push Raikou in.
"Raikō bakufū [Lightning Burst]!" Raikou yelled, blasting Gluttony with a surge of lightning from her mouth.
"AAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!" Gluttony screamed in pain, releasing her grip on Raikou. Raikou noticed that she was no longer under the effects of Gluttony's spell. She escaped Gluttony's grasp, swiftly attacking the stunned Gluttony with her sword, now glowing with violet lightning.
"Raikō Kaimetsu [Lightning Obliteration]!" Raikou shouted as she struck Gluttony.
"GAAAAAHHHHHHH!" Gluttony cried out, her body vibrating from the shock. Raikou paused her attack and swapped Doujigiri Yasutsuna for her bow. Loading an arrow, she pulled back, purple lightning crackling around it.
"Raikō [Lightning]Breaker!" Raikou yelled as she fired the lightning-charged arrows. Suddenly, a warrior clad in gray and red armor leaped in front of Gluttony and blocked the arrows with her sword.
"Envy!" Gluttony cried. Envy ignored her, picking Gluttony up and leaping away. Raikou immediately reloaded her bow with more arrows, preparing for another shot.
"Raikō Breaker!" Raikou yelled, firing more lightning arrows. However, Envy and Gluttony easily dodged and escaped.
Scene Change: Gilles de Rias (Lust) vs. Jeanne d'Arc
Jeanne walked through the forest, her flag wrapped tightly to resemble a purple spear. Suddenly, she heard a branch snap from a nearby bush. Jeanne turned her flagpole at the ready.
"Come out slowly," Jeanne ordered, eyes narrowing. A small hand appeared, pushing the bush aside. It was a little boy, with messy black hair and big brown eyes. His clothes were dirty and torn. Jeanne lowered her weapon.
"Hey, little boy, there's nothing to be scared of," she said, seeing hope fill the boy's eyes.
"Thank y-AAAAAHHHHHHHH!" The boy screamed in horror. The scream startled Jeanne, causing her to drop her flagpole. She watched as something burst from the boy's chest—masses of tentacles, resembling a starfish. The creature, with its circular mouth marked by shark-like teeth and covered in spiked appendages, turned to face Jeanne before lunging at her. Jeanne grabbed her flagpole and managed to knock the creature back. Stunned, the creature tried to strike her with its tentacles, but Jeanne persisted, stabbing it repeatedly. Despite its attacks, Jeanne continued her assault, and with one final thrust, the creature collapsed, dead from its wounds.
"Clap. Clap. Clap."
Jeanne spun around, seeing a figure step out from the bushes.
"Who are you?" Jeanne demanded, pointing her flagpole at the stranger. The figure wore a blood-soaked cloak.
"Jeanne, do you not recognize me?" the stranger asked. Jeanne stared at the figure for a moment before her eyes widened in recognition.
"Gilles?"
"There it is!" Lust said with a grin. "The Maiden has remembered me!"
"What…what happened to you? What turned my most loyal knight into this monster?" Jeanne asked in disbelief.
"Your death," Lust replied coldly.
"My death?" Jeanne repeated in confusion.
"Yes. After your death, I received a horrible revelation."
"A revelation?"
"Yes. After your death, I discovered that God doesn't exist."
"What?" Jeanne gasped.
"If God does exist, why didn't He prevent your death?"
"That is because—"
"Why didn't God stop me when I decided to murder endless amounts of innocent boys?" Lust interrupted, his tone venomous.
"That is because—"
"Why didn't God stop me when I decided to rape those boys before I killed them?" Lust's voice twisted in cruelty.
"I DON'T KNOW!" Jeanne screamed, falling to her knees in shock. She couldn't believe that her loyal knight, the man she had trusted, had become such a monster. "I just don't know."
Lust cracked a wide, malicious smile.
"That's good then!" Lust said, walking toward Jeanne. "If you don't know, let me show you the way." Lust extended his hand toward her. As Jeanne looked into his eyes, she briefly saw the face of the royal knight she once knew, not the monster before her. Slowly, she reached out for his hand. But as she did, his face began to warp back into Lust's monstrous form. Jeanne, at that moment, remembered her mission.
"NO!" Jeanne screamed as she smacked Lust's hand away from her.
"Jeanne, why do you need to make this worse for yourself?" Lust said as Jeanne jumped away from him, her flagpole pointed at him. Lust pulled a book from his robes. Jeanne could see that the book was glistening and made from human skin. Lust opened the book.
"Jugaro! (1)"
The ground began to shake as more starfish abominations crawled out of the earth, charging at Jeanne. She fought back, striking down the creatures. Jeanne noticed that while the size of these new starfish abominations was similar to the previous ones, they appeared to be significantly weaker than the earlier, more formidable creature. However, there were many more of them. Jeanne managed to defeat all the abominations Lust summoned.
"It ends now!" Jeanne shouted as she charged at Lust. Lust smiled.
"Raja Jugaro!" Lust yelled. From the ground, three more starfish abominations rose. Unlike the previous waves, these were 3 meters (9.843 feet) tall. Jeanne stopped her charge, now staring down the larger abominations.
"Barjuran!" Lust commanded. The abominations began to spew purple gas everywhere. Despite the toxic fumes, Jeanne charged at them, undeterred. Thanks to her high magic resistance, she was able to ignore the gas and continue her assault. The giant abominations were stronger than the previous waves. They swatted at her, sending her flying like an annoying fly, but Jeanne persevered. Eventually, she managed to kill all the giant abominations. However, she had taken heavy damage from being repeatedly slammed by the starfish abominations.
"Is this all, Gilles?" Jeanne panted.
"Jeanne. One last time. Join me."
"No, Gilles. I will not."
"Very well then." Lust opened his book. "In oculis in tenebris, et non ad animam meam [In the eyes of darkness, let my soul be taken]." A black seal began to form beneath Jeanne's feet. She tried to move away, but it was no use.
"Da mihi potestatem ut novis epistolis unam marcam de decidant a tenebris in lucem [Give me the power to reverse the one with the mark, let them fall from the light into darkness]."
Black tentacles shot up from the seal, binding Jeanne in place.
"STOP THIS, GILLES!" Jeanne screamed, struggling against the tentacles.
"Cthulhu in nomine Domini: fiat mihi conversus est pura in se, quod illa quae corrupta est [In the name of Cthulhu, let me turn that which is pure into that which is corrupt]!" Lust yelled as Jeanne screamed in agony. Her silver armor slowly began to turn a dark violet.
"It seems due to your EX-ranked Magic Resistance, the ritual is having a difficult time transforming you," Lust muttered to himself.
"In oculis in tenebris, et non ad animam meam [In the eyes of darkness, let my soul be taken]."
"HELP!" Jeanne screamed as her blonde hair began to turn silver.
"Da mihi potestatem ut novis epistolis unam marcam de decidant a tenebris in lucem [Give me the power to reverse the one with the mark, let them fall from the light into darkness]."
"SOMEONE PLEASE!" Jeanne cried out as her white and golden flag began to turn black.
"CTHULHU in nomine Domini: fiat mihi conversus est pura in se— [In the name of Cthulhu, let me turn that which is pure—]" Before Lust could complete the ritual, he was struck in the back and sent flying into a nearby tree. The incomplete ritual exploded, kicking up dust around Jeanne. Lust turned to see a tall Hispanic man standing there. He was clad in unique armor on both arms. His right arm was covered in black and magenta armor, with a shield surrounding his right hand. His left arm bore white armor, with a red stripe running down its length, and red diamond-shaped marks on his fingertips. A spike protruded from his shoulder, with two more resembling claws extending over his chest.
"Rider, check on the girl." The Hispanic man commanded.
"Yes, Maestro," Rider responded, appearing beside him. She was a tan-skinned woman with blonde hair and green eyes, wearing traditional cultural garments. She carefully approached Jeanne, who was still unconscious. Suddenly, a black spear tip shot out of the dust toward Rider. She effortlessly dodged the attack. Summoning a macuahuitl, a wooden cricket bat with black blades attached on either side, Rider stood ready for battle.
The dust settled, revealing the servant who had attempted the attack. The servant had pale skin, yellow eyes, and long flowing white-blond hair that reached her ankles. Dressed in violet-black battle armor, with a matching cape and high heels, she was an imposing sight.
"Who are you?" the Hispanic man asked.
"I am Jeanne d'Arc, summoned under the Avenger class," the servant replied.
"IT WORKED!" Lust yelled in triumph. Avenger turned to Gilles.
"Hello, Gilles. It seems you brought me here."
"I did," Avenger smiled.
"Then let's burn this world down to the ground!"
"YES, MY LADY!" Lust shouted.
"Lust, return to base and bring your friend with you," Sakura ordered.
"Very well, Mistress," Lust replied. He turned to Avenger. "My Lady, my current Mistress requests to meet you." He bowed shortly.
"Very well," Avenger replied as the two left in haste.
"I won't let you!" Rider yelled, chasing after them.
"Jugaro!" Lust shouted. The starfish abominations rose from the ground, charging at Rider. Rider and Sado quickly dealt with the abominations. But by the time they finished, Lust and Avenger had disappeared.
"Dang it!" Rider cursed.
"That's fine, Rider," Sado said as he checked on Jeanne.
"Be careful, Maestro. She's also a Servant," Rider warned as Sado gently shook Jeanne.
"Uh…" Jeanne groaned as she regained consciousness. "Um… who are you two?"
"I am a Servant, Rider."
"My name is Sado Yasutora," Sado introduced himself.
"Hello. My name is Jeanne d'Arc, summoned under the Ruler Class," Jeanne said. "Come on, let's regroup with my master."
Rider and Sado nodded as they followed Jeanne.
Scene Change: Elizabeth Báthory (Pride) versus Akasha Bloodriver
Pride sat at a nearby café, sipping from a glass of wine. She wore a white turtleneck shirt, black leather shorts, thigh-high leather heels, and a long red overcoat, which she kept open to reveal her attire (2). A server approached her.
"Yes?" she asked.
"I have your requested drink," the server said, placing another glass of wine on the table. The server was nothing remarkable, simply dressed in a standard butler uniform. However, his eyes had a peculiar light red ring around the iris.
Pride picked up the glass and swirled the red liquid inside, savoring its aroma.
"It's fresh AB Virgin Blood from my daughter," the server explained.
Pride sniffed the glass before taking a sip.
"Is it to your liking, Madam?" he asked.
"It is. I would like a bottle of this as well."
"Very well, madam." The server said, writing something down on his notepad. He then walked back inside the café. Pride ignored the screams from within, resuming her sip of blood. She noticed Akasha walking toward her. "She smells interesting. Let's see how she tastes," Pride thought as she attempted to hypnotize her. Akasha met her gaze directly.
"Your tricks don't work on me, Elizabeth," Akasha said as she drew her Casull and fired. Pride ducked to dodge the bullet, summoning her staff and swinging it at Akasha. Akasha blocked the strike with her Casull.
"To think a vampire hunter would be here, and recognize me for who I truly am—not the illusion I show the public."
"You're right. Normally, no one would know who you are... but I'm not normal, 'little miss idol.'" Pride's eyes widened in shock.
"How did you know that!?" she exclaimed as she swung her staff at Akasha. Akasha casually blocked it with her gun.
"You asked me to listen to your singing once."
"No..." Pride's voice faltered. Her eyes widened as realization hit. "B-but... I heard you were killed by Abraham Van Helsing."
"One version of me was," Akasha replied.
"One version?" Pride echoed, confused.
"Pride. Return to base now," Sakura growled.
"Yes, Mistress." Pride turned to Akasha. "Well, Alucard, it looks like it's time for me to leave." She said, enveloped in red and black energy before disappearing. Akasha sighed and entered the café, where she was immediately attacked by Pride's ghouls. Akasha effortlessly dispatched them.
"Guess I should head back to Ichigo," she muttered as she absorbed the blood that had splattered on her and began walking back.
Scene Change: Ground Zero
Ichigo walked toward a group of teenagers, with Hana trailing behind him.
"Who are you?" Illya asked.
"Isn't it rude to ask someone's name before introducing yourself?" Ichigo countered.
"Very well. I am Illyasviel von Einzbern. And you?"
"My name is Kurosaki Ichigo." Ichigo turned to Rin and Tohsaka. "And you are?"
"I'm Tohsaka Rin."
"I am Emiya Shirou,"
"Any relation to Emiya Kiritsugu?" Ichigo asked.
"How do you know my father?" Shirou demanded.
"I'm curious as well," Illya growled. Berserker began to growl in response to her anger. Hana stepped in front of Ichigo, prepared in case Berserker decided to act.
"Hana, stand down—if Berserker does too," Ichigo said, locking eyes with Illya.
"Berserker, stand down… for now," Illya commanded. Berserker calmed but continued to watch Ichigo closely. Hana eased up, though she kept an eye on the massive servant.
"Anyways, how do you know our father?" Illya asked again.
"Let's just say the dead isn't as silent as most believe." The group gave Ichigo a puzzled look.
"Hōgyoku, can you get me Kiritsugu?"
"As you wish," Hōgyoku responded before disappearing from Ichigo's mindscape.
"Are you a master?" Rin asked.
"Technically, yes, but not for this," Ichigo replied.
"What do you mean?" Rin pressed, but before Ichigo could answer, he saw Artoria, Saber, Gilgamesh, Scáthach, Raikou, and Akasha approaching.
"Where is Jeanne?"
"She's here, Ichigo." Ichigo turned to see Chad, carrying Jeanne bridal-style in his arms, walking toward him with his servant by his side.
"Jeanne, you all right?" Ichigo asked.
"I'm fine… just a little exhausted," Jeanne replied.
"You're involved?" Ichigo asked Chad.
"I should be asking you the same thing, old friend."
"And you are?" Rin asked.
"I am Yasutora Sado. Ichigo calls me Chad."
"And I am Rider, his servant," Rider added.
"Let's relocate somewhere else," Ichigo suggested.
"Why should I go with you?" Illya asked.
"Two reasons," Ichigo replied, raising one finger. "Because this is mostly your family's fault."
"And the second?" Illya raised an eyebrow.
"Wouldn't any sane magus want to know how someone summoned eight servants and isn't dead?" Ichigo raised a second finger.
"Fine," Illya conceded. Ichigo led them to his current headquarters.
Scene Change: Headquarters
The group arrived outside Ichigo's house. During their walk, Ichigo saw a female servant in a red coat and long white hair appear next to Rin.
"This is my headquarters," Ichigo said. All the magi could tell that Ichigo's headquarters were heavily warded. As they approached, the door suddenly opened, revealing Angela, dressed in her Blackwatch armor with her wings folded.
"Welcome, everyone. Please come inside," she greeted. The group entered the house.
"Um…" Illya hesitated.
"Yes, Illya?" Ichigo asked.
"What about Berserker?" Illya inquired.
Ichigo realized Berserker was too large for his headquarters. "Would deactivating his Madness Enhancement makes him smaller?" he asked.
"It might, but…"
"But what?"
"Berserker can't manually deactivate his Madness Enhancement—it's too painful for him," Illya explained.
"I see. Guess you'll miss out on my explanation," Ichigo said, walking away. Illya glanced at him before looking at Berserker.
"Berserker, deactivate your Madness Enhancement!" Illya ordered. Berserker roared inhumanly as he began to shrink, going from 253 cm (8.3 feet) to 203 cm (6.66 feet).
"Hurry up. The others are waiting," Ichigo said, entering the house with Illya and Berserker following behind.
Everyone gathered in the living room. Ichigo's servants stood around him. Illya sat on a couch, with Berserker looming behind her. Shirou and Rin sat together, with their servant next to them.
"So, how are you able to summon and maintain eight different servants?" Illya asked, eager for answers.
"Why are you here?" Rin asked.
"Why do you have a different version of Saber there?" Shirou added.
"Before we begin, I think it would be proper for everyone to introduce themselves," Ichigo proposed. "Some servants already know each other," he continued, as Saber and Artoria nodded.
"Very well," Illya said. "My name is Illyasviel von Einzbern."
"I am Heracles. Summoned under the Berserker class." Berserker growled.
"Well, …my name is Emiya Shirou," Shirou said.
"I am Artoria Pendragon, King of Knights and Once and Future King of Britannia. I was summoned in the Saber Class," Saber said.
"She said the same thing as Artoria," Jeanne noted.
"My name is Tohsaka Rin, and this is my servant Archer. She said that due to some error in the summoning, it caused her to forget her name but not her skills," Rin explained, with Archer nodding in confirmation.
"My name is Sado Yasutora, and this is my servant Rider," Ichigo added.
"Hello, I am Quetzalcoatl," Rider said. Ichigo turned to his servants.
"My name is Jeanne d'Arc, and I was summoned to the Ruler Class."
"I am Artoria Pendragon, King of Knights and Once and Future King of Britannia. I was summoned in the Saber Class."
"I am Gilgamesh, King of Uruk and King of Heroes. I was summoned in the Archer Class."
"I am Scáthach, Queen of the Land of Shadows. I was summoned in the Lancer Class."
"I am Minamoto no Raikou, also known as Minamoto no Yorimitsu. I was summoned in the Rider Class."
"Finally, I am Akasha Bloodriver. I was summoned in the Berserker Class."
"With introductions out of the way, allow me to explain what is happening," Ichigo said.
"Before that, I think we need to discuss the identities of the enemy servants," Jeanne interjected. Her fellow servants nodded in agreement.
"I fought Mordred, my child, who was summoned under the Saber-class," Artoria said.
"I fought a stupid male version of myself," Gilgamesh added. "When I arrived, I noticed he was observing your match," he said, looking over at Saber. "You two know each other?"
"We met in the Fourth Holy Grail War," Saber replied.
"Anyways, I fought my myfyriwr, Cú Chulainn," Scáthach said. "Although he didn't look like how she described him."
"What do you mean?" Ichigo asked.
"She described him in deep ultramarine full-body tights, but the one I encountered wore a black cloak with red spikes."
"Maybe Sakura managed to capture the original Cú Chulainn and corrupted him," Ichigo suggested.
"I fought Gilles de Rais, who was summoned under the Caster Class. He tried to corrupt me," Jeanne explained.
"What happened?" Ichigo asked.
"Sado and Quetzalcoatl intercepted the ritual, which resulted in the creation of a black version of me called Avenger," Jeanne said.
"I see," Ichigo said, turning to Akasha.
"The servant I encountered was Elizabeth Báthory."
"Any idea what class she was summoned in?" Rin asked.
"No," Akasha replied.
"Anyways, with servant identification done, let me begin to explain what is going on," Ichigo said. Everyone nodded and turned to him.
"It all started in the Third Holy Grail War."
"The Third one? Why that one?" Rin asked.
"Wouldn't it make more sense for it to start in the Fourth Holy Grail War?" Illya asked.
"Are you two going to allow me to talk uninterrupted?" Ichigo asked, pausing for a moment before continuing. "Anyways, this started back in the Third Holy Grail War. In this war, one of the Masters was a pair of twins who managed to summon two different aspects of one servant. This was Shiro's Saber and my Artoria," Ichigo explained. Saber and Artoria nodded in agreement.
"Anyways, the Einzbern representative somehow managed to summon a unique servant."
"That dark, evil servant we encountered, in the Third War?" Saber asked.
"Exactly. That servant was Angra Mainyu. According to Zoroastrianism, he is the physical embodiment of 'All the World's Evil.' When he was killed, his corrupted essence entered and tainted the Holy Grail. Fast forward to the Fourth Holy Grail War," Artoria continued.
"I think this is where I should continue the story," Kiritsugu said. Everyone turned to see Kiritsugu Emiya standing before them.
"Tou-san?" Shirou asked, surprised.
Kiritsugu cracked a small smile.
"Hello, Shirou."
"Hello, Father," Shirou replied. Kiritsugu turned to see Illya glaring at him.
"Illya. I'm sorry."
"SORRY FOR WHAT!? ABANDONING ME FOR HIM!?" she shouted.
"You're wrong. I never abandoned you. I tried to see you, but all the Einzbern homunculi tried to stop me many times," Kiritsugu said.
"That's why you disappeared for months to a year after you rescued me from the fire," Shirou added.
"It is," Kiritsugu said, turning to see Saber glaring at him.
"Hello, Saber."
"Kiritsugu," she replied coldly.
"Anyways, I think I should continue the story."
"Go ahead," Ichigo said as he stood up. "I'm getting some water and checking on another guest of mine," Ichigo said before leaving the room. Ichigo walked to the kitchen to get a cup of water when Kyōka suddenly appeared before him.
"Ready to talk to Caster?"
"I am." Kyōka pointed the Trainer at Ichigo before sending him to the Trainer.
Scene Change: Trainer
Ichigo arrived to find Myrddin talking with Caster.
"Oh, hello, Master."
"Hello, Myrddin," Ichigo said, then turned to Caster. "How do you feel?"
"I feel a lot better," she replied.
"What are you planning to do now?"
"I don't know. When I was with my former master…" She sneered. "I suggested we move our base of operations to Ryuudou Temple."
"Why?"
"During my free time, I discovered Ryuudou Temple's unique wards."
"Unique in what way?"
"Ryuudou Temple was constructed on top of an intersection of leylines. To protect it, wards were constructed that tapped into those leylines, making it very difficult to enter. However, there is one way in: the front gate."
"Amazing idea," Ichigo said.
"Thank you. When I told him about Ryuudou Temple's wards, he ignored my suggestions."
"So, what are you planning to do now?"
"Hm?"
"What are you planning to do now?" Ichigo repeated.
"Well… I might still go to Ryuudou Temple and make it my base."
"You still desire to fight for the Holy Grail."
"Is it wrong to fight for a chance at revenge?"
"Revenge?"
"Revenge for that bitch who mind-controlled me into helping Jason," she sneered at the mention of his name.
"Um… I don't know who you're referring to," Ichigo admitted.
"Oh." Caster paused for a second. "My name is Medea. I was the princess of Colchis. You see, Jason and his Argonauts tried to reason with my father, King Aeëtes of Colchis, to use the Golden Fleece. However, my father denied Jason's request. At that time, Aphrodite was supporting Jason, so she mind-controlled me into betraying my father and my country. It also led me to do countless actions that I regret to this very day."
"So, you wish to use your wish to get revenge on Aphrodite?" Ichigo guessed.
"A part of it."
"What's the other part?"
"To live my own life, free from the control of others," Medea answered. Ichigo looked at Medea for a few seconds, searching for any deception. There was none.
"Medea," Ichigo called, getting her attention. "Do you want to become my servant?"
"What!?"
"I asked if you want to become my servant."
"Why?"
"For a few reasons," Ichigo said, raising a finger. "First, I believe in your desire for a second chance at life."
"How?"
"That's a secret." Caster pouted for a moment.
"What's the second reason?"
"Second, I can help you get your revenge on the Greek Gods."
"How? I can't sense them anymore."
"I know that Hades is in America."
"America? Why there?"
"I don't know, but I know Hades chose to meet there."
"Wouldn't he challenge me since I'll be taking his place?" Caster asked, pointing at Myrddin.
"I'm leaving soon," Myrddin replied.
"What do you mean?"
"I'm stuck in a very limited position since I'm not a true servant," Myrddin said.
"How?"
"It's complicated."
"Anyways, Caster, do you want to become my servant?"
"Very well. I accept your offer," Caster said. Ichigo raised his hand for a handshake. Caster accepted it.
"Heed my words," Ichigo began to chant. Caster could feel Ichigo's reiatsu beginning to flow around her. "My will creates your body, and our swords will forge our new destiny. If you heed my call and obey my will and reason, then answer me…" Ichigo chanted as his reiatsu gathered around them. "Then answer me!"
"I, Servant Caster, Medea, have answered your call. I accept you as my Master, Ichigo," Caster said as she grasped Ichigo's hand, sealing the bond. Ichigo's reiatsu flowed through her.
"Are you all right, Caster?" Ichigo asked.
"I am. Thank you for caring, Master," Caster said.
"Caster, what abilities do you have?"
"Why do you ask, Master?"
"I'm just curious about my allies and their abilities."
"I understand. Since I'm a magus from the Age of Gods, my magic is more powerful compared to modern magi."
"Interesting. It would be fun to throw Mysteria your way."
"Mysteria?"
"She is the physical manifestation of my magical knowledge."
"I see..."
"Any other abilities?" Ichigo asked.
"I can summon Dragon Tooth Warriors to fight by my side."
"Anything else?"
"My Noble Phantasm is known as Rule Breaker," Caster said, pulling out a uniquely shaped dagger, the blade zig-zagged. "When I was alive, I never actually owned a weapon called Rule Breaker. This weapon is the physical manifestation of all the betrayal I've done in my life."
"What does it do?" Ichigo asked.
"I can use it as a physical dagger, but Rule Breaker also can sever magical contracts and destroy many kinds of magecraft."
"Interesting abilities, Medea. With your magecraft knowledge, I can see you as a supporting servant."
"Thank you, Master."
"Do you wish to stay here and practice your magecraft, or leave the Trainer?"
"I wish to review my magecraft and get a handle on my spells."
"Very well," Ichigo nodded. "Mysteria, she's ready for you."
"Hello, darling," Mysteria said, hugging Ichigo from behind.
"Um… Master, who is that?"
"This is Mysteria. She'll be assisting you and learning from you."
"I am Mysteria." Ichigo turned to Myrddin.
"Both Saber and Artoria are at headquarters right now. Do you wish to confront them about it?"
"Hmm… not yet. It's better to have Saber and Artoria help with the effort." Ichigo nodded.
"Master," Angela called out. Ichigo turned to see Genji and Amélie kneeling in a bowing position.
"Yes, Angela?"
"What should I do with them?" she asked.
"What happened?"
"They failed their mission." Ichigo turned to the two on their knees.
"Can you explain to us what happened?" Ichigo ordered. They nervously glanced at Angela for confirmation.
"Well? Follow the Master's orders," Angela said.
"Yes, Mistress," Genji replied. "We were observing the various fights when Amélie noticed one of the enemy servants rescuing their comrade. We followed them, making sure to transform into our black dust form to stay hidden. We weren't noticed until the first two enemy servants regrouped with another pair. One was a male in purple robes, and the other resembled Lady Jeanne, but she wore black armor. He immediately detected our presence and fired a spell at us. We had to dodge the attack and transform back. Then, the black-armored Lady Jeanne launched a blast of black fire. We scattered to avoid it, and the male summoned starfish-like creatures to attack us. It took a few minutes to defeat them, but by then, they all managed to escape." Genji reported. Ichigo stared at them for a moment before turning to Angela.
"You do realize you can't fully blame them," Ichigo said. "They were probably discovered by the enemy's caster servant, Gilles de Rias. He may have used his magecraft to find you."
"So, how do you propose I fix this?" Angela asked.
"Maybe have Genji and Amélie learn some magic from Myrddin, Mysteria, or Caster," Ichigo suggested.
"And what if they can't?"
"Well, they can receive enhancements that hide them from magical means."
"Very well," Angela said as she walked towards Myrddin, Mysteria, and Caster, followed by Genji and Amélie. With everything settled, Ichigo left the trainer.
Scene Change: Kitchen
Ichigo returned to the kitchen to find Kyōka rolling up a scroll.
"How did it go?" Kyōka asked.
"She decided to join us."
"Just as I expected," Kyōka replied. Ichigo cracked a smile as he walked toward the living room. He saw Kiritsugu hugging Illya and Shirou. Turning, he noticed that Rin and Archer had disappeared, likely headed home. Nobody noticed Ichigo's return to the living room.
"It seems all of you have made peace with each other," Ichigo said. Everyone turned to see a grinning Ichigo. He walked back to his seat. "I hate to do this, but I need to escort Kiritsugu back to Soul Society." The room grew quiet. Kiritsugu wrapped Shirou and Illya in another hug before turning to Shirou.
"Shirou, I'm sorry. I'm sorry I threw you into this world."
"Tou-san."
"I'm not done yet, Shirou. I want you to protect Illya. Protect her from the darkness of being a Magus. Protect her from those who dare call themselves her family."
"I will," Shirou said, his resolve firm.
Kiritsugu smiled before turning to Illya.
"Now Illya, I'm sorry I couldn't be there for you."
"But Papa, you tried your best to see me," Illya replied.
"I know… Anyway, please teach Shirou how to be a Magus. I was so foolish not to teach Shirou Magecraft earlier."
"I will, Papa." Kiritsugu smiled as he looked at both Shirou and Illya.
"My final wish for both of you is to survive this Holy Grail War and stay together, to become real siblings."
"We will, Papa," Illya said.
"We will, Tou-san," Shirou added.
Kiritsugu smiled and turned to Ichigo.
"I'm ready."
"Very well," Ichigo said, as Hōgyoku appeared. She offered her hand to Kiritsugu. He accepted, and they disappeared together. Shirou glanced at the clock.
"Oh god," Shirou muttered. Everyone turned to see the clock read 23:00.
"You have school tomorrow?" Ichigo asked.
"I do," Shirou admitted.
"Since it's late, all of you can sleep here for the night," Ichigo offered.
Everyone accepted the offer. Shirou and Saber took a guest room, Chad and Rider took another, and Illya and her maids took the last. Ichigo and his servants went to the master bedroom. As soon as Ichigo closed the door, a series of spells and seals activated.
"Master," Jeanne said.
"Yes?"
"A few things," Jeanne replied. "First, Archer lied about forgetting her name."
"Really?" Ichigo asked. All the other servants listened intently.
"She did, but I understand why."
"Why?"
"Because Archer's true name is Emiya Rin."
"Wait. She's an older version of Rin?"
"I believe so," Jeanne said.
"That makes sense," Angela said. "After all, I'm from the future."
During this short discussion, Ichigo felt something burning on the back of his right hand. Looking down, he saw a faint bruise. Jeanne noticed and recognized what it was.
"Master, the Holy Grail is forcing you to summon the final servant."
"Final servant?"
"Yes. Since the last servant for the Holy Grail hasn't been summoned yet, the Holy Grail can force a nearby Magus to join the war," Jeanne explained.
"Kind of like what happened to Shirou," Artoria added.
"Exactly."
"Very well," Ichigo said. Everyone quickly moved downstairs to the previous summoning circle. Ichigo cut his wrist again, and his blood began to drip.
"For the elements silver and iron. For the foundation, stone, and the archduke of contracts. Granted by the blessings of Alaya. Close the gates of the cardinal directions." The summoning circle began to glow red. "Come forth from the Crown and follow the forked road to the Kingdom." The summoning circle blazed brighter. "Fill. Fill. Fill. Fill. Fill. Repeat five times. But when each is filled, destroy it." The energy from the summoning circle intensified. "Set. Heed my words. My will creates your body, and our swords will forge our new destiny. If you heed my call and obey my will and reason, then answer me. I hereby swear... That I shall be all that is good in the world… That I shall defeat all that is evil in the world… You seven heavens, clad in the three great words of power, come forth from the circle of binding... Guardian of the Scales!" Ichigo finished the chant.
The entire room glowed bright red, stirring up a cloud of dust. Soon, the summoning seal stopped glowing, blinding everyone.
Scene Change: Sakura's Headquarters
Sakura sat on her throne, waiting for her servants to arrive. It wasn't long before they began to appear in front of her. All of them took a knee and bowed. She noticed a new servant standing behind Lust, remaining upright while the others knelt. She stood beside the kneeling Lust.
"So, Lust, who is your friend?" Sakura asked.
"Mistress Sakura, this is Lady Jeanne," Lust replied.
"Oh?"
"I am Jeanne d'Arc, summoned under the Avenger class," Jeanne said.
"Interesting feat, Lust," Sakura commented.
"Thank you, Mistress," Lust responded. Sakura then turned to face Pride.
"Now then, Pride, what did you do during this mission?"
"I discovered the identity of one of the enemy servants," Pride said.
"Oh?" Sakura asked, intrigued.
"Yes. Her name is Dracula, though she goes by the pseudonym Alucard."
"Anything else?"
"Um…"
"No?" Sakura raised her hand and snapped her fingers.
"AAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Pride screamed, her veins bulging, something crawling under her skin. Sakura watched calmly as Pride continued to scream in agony.
"Now then, Pride, do you know why you're being punished?" she asked, her voice cold. All Sakura could hear was Pride's continuous screams. She snapped her fingers again, and the crawling beneath Pride's skin stopped.
"Do you know why you're being punished now, Pride?" Sakura repeated.
"I-I-don't kn-ow," Pride stammered.
"Oh, you don't?" Sakura snapped her fingers once more.
"AAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Pride's screams resumed, louder than before. Sakura stood there, watching as something began devouring the skin from her stomach. Worms crawled out, devouring their way through her insides before leaping back into her stomach.
Sakura snapped her fingers, and the worms ceased their activity.
"So, Pride," Sakura said with a cold smile. "What did you do during your mission?"
"I... I found blood," Pride answered weakly.
"What else?"
"I found blood when I was supposed to fight."
"Correct answer. Since you didn't answer fully the first time..." Sakura snapped her fingers. "Eat her organs." The Crest Worms began to devour Pride's insides. Her scream turned into a gurgling, dry wheeze as she slowly neared death.
Sakura opened one of Pride's blood bottles and poured it down her throat. The screaming stopped, replaced by the sound of swallowing.
"Stop eating," Sakura commanded the Crest Worms. They ceased their consumption, allowing Pride's body to heal slowly. She turned Pride to face her. The woman was licking the blood off her face, her eyes wide with fear.
"Pride," Sakura said. Pride stopped and looked at her.
Sakura smiled as she saw the terror in her eyes. "Stand."
Pride scrambled to her feet. Everyone could see the fear in her expression.
"You learned your lesson, right?" Sakura asked.
"Yes, Mistress!" Pride cried out, her voice trembling. Sakura nodded and turned to her other servants.
"Starting with Envy, what did you learn from this evening's events?" Sakura asked.
Envy stood up, and her helmet collapsed, revealing her face. "I learned that somehow there are two versions of my Father."
"Two versions?" Sakura asked, her interest piqued.
"Yes. One version of my father is in blue and silver armor," Envy explained.
"That would likely be the one summoned for the war," Sakura said thoughtfully.
"And the other is in black and red armor."
"That would probably be the other servant summoned by Alaya's chosen hero," Sakura thought. "Anything else to report?"
"No, Mistress," Envy replied.
"I see. What about your Greed?" Sakura asked.
"Somehow, there is a woman who dared to impersonate me!" Greed shouted.
"Oh?" Sakura said, pulling out a small packet of papers. She glanced over it for a moment. "It appears that the servant you faced, Greed, was another servant summoned by Alaya's chosen hero."
"I see… Mistress, I have a request," Greed said, his voice filled with anticipation.
"What is it?" Sakura asked.
"Can the two Sabers be my toys?" Greed asked eagerly.
"Greed, they are mine!" Envy yelled, glaring at him.
"Foolish knight. A knight has no right to own a king," Greed sneered.
Sakura sighed and snapped her fingers. Immediately, both Envy and Greed stopped arguing as they felt the Crest Worms stir and begin to move.
"Sorry, Mistress," they both muttered, bowing.
"Get back on your knees," Sakura ordered coldly.
"Yes, Mistress," they replied in unison as they dropped to their knees.
Sakura turned to Sloth. "What about you, Sloth?"
Sloth let out a massive yawn. "Saw my old Master, Scáthach," he said lazily.
"And you, Gluttony?"
"I don't know much. She's Japanese, wears a purple jumpsuit, and fires purple lightning," Gluttony said, his voice disinterested.
"I see," Sakura replied, before turning her attention to Lust. Lust was now on her hands and knees, used as a chair for Avenger.
"Lust, your report," Sakura demanded.
"I fought my dear Jeanne. I cast a ritual to begin to corrupt her, but we were interrupted by two servants."
"Oh?" Sakura raised an eyebrow.
"Yes. The master appears to be male with dark skin, and his servant is light-skinned, wearing some sort of exotic clothing," Lust explained.
"I see… continue," Sakura said, intrigued.
"Despite their interference, I managed to corrupt a portion of her," Lust added, letting out a satisfied moan.
"I see," Sakura said, turning to look at Avenger. "Anything to add, Jeanne?"
"While we were returning, I encountered two servants following us. All of them were dressed in black and red armor. However, each of them wielded a different weapon—one with a katana, and the other one carried some sort of firearm. Gilles managed to detect them and attack. They were forced to retreat," Jeanne reported.
Sakura nodded. "Is that all?"
"When can I destroy more things?" Jeanne asked eagerly.
"Soon, Jeanne," Sakura replied. "Wrath, did you finish your job?"
"Me finish. Me tired," Wrath replied, exhausted.
"Very well. Anything else to report?"
"No."
"Very well. Return to your assigned post."
"YES, MISTRESS!" they shouted before disappearing. Sakura pulled out a sheet of paper and wrote down the information her servants had provided.
"Ayaka's hero's servants: Artoria Pendragon, Gilgamesh, Scáthach, the purple lightning warrior, Alucard, Jeanne d'Arc, Black and Red ninja, Black and Red firearm user." She flipped the page over to review the other servants summoned for this Grail War.
"Emiya Shiro and Artoria Pendragon (Saber), Tohsaka Rin and ? (Archer), ? and Medea (Caster), ? & ? (Rider), ? and ? (Assassin), Illyasviel von Einzbern and Hercules (Berserker)." She walked out of the basement and into the living room. Picking up the phone, she dialed Kotomine Kirei.
"Hello, Mistress Sakura."
"Hello, Kirei. I need your thoughts on Caster's current master, and the identity of Rider and her master."
"Give me one second, Mistress," Kirei replied. A few minutes later, he returned to the phone. "I've managed to uncover Rider's identity. Her master's name is Sado Yasutora, and his servant is Quetzalcoatl."
"I see. And Caster's master?"
"Her master is Kurosaki Ichigo."
"I see. Thank you." Sakura said, hanging up the phone.
"Sakura, we need to talk."
"Yes, my Master?" Sakura replied.
"I believe Caster's master, Kurosaki Ichigo, is Alaya's chosen hero."
"Thank you, Master."
"One more thing, Sakura."
"Yes, Master?"
"I'm going to force him to connect with the Holy Grail."
"Why?"
"So that we can observe him and gauge his strength."
"I see," Sakura said. "But Master, wouldn't it be more beneficial to have another servant at our disposal?"
"Normally I would agree, but given the last servant was Assassin, there's a high chance the next one will be weak, as they are often among the first to die."
"Very well." Sakura nodded, feeling her master's presence leave her mind. She walked to her study to contemplate her plans.
Scene Change: Ichigo's Headquarters – Basement Level
Ichigo stood in the dust, watching as it slowly settled, revealing a servant standing before him. He approached the kneeling figure, observing her closely. She had pale skin, golden eyes hidden behind a black veil, and was dressed in a black robe.
"I have heard your calling, my God," she said, remaining kneeling. Ichigo, accustomed to being referred to as a divine being, sighed.
"Rise," Ichigo commanded. She stood up in a swift, elegant, almost inhuman motion. Now standing, Ichigo could better assess her—she was around 195 cm (6'4") tall, with large DD breasts. Ichigo met her gaze and nearly gasped. Her eyes seemed lifeless, devoid of emotion, but there was a faint spark—devotion.
"Why do I feel this one will remind me of Crazy Orihime?" Ichigo muttered, stepping closer to the servant. "What is your name?"
"Zealot is Zealot," she replied.
"Do you desire the Holy Grail?"
"Why would Zealot want that accursed drinking cup?" she asked.
"So why did you answer my call then?"
"Zealot heard God calling from the void," she explained. Ichigo sighed, accepting her answer.
"So Zealot, what can you do?"
"Zealot learned from the other great Hassan-i-Sabbah. But Zealot was too stupid to become the next Hassan-i-Sabbah."
"Um…" Ichigo began, not knowing who Hassan-i-Sabbah was.
"Ichigo, the Hassan-i-Sabbah were leaders of an old Islamic sect known for their assassination skills. The term 'assassin' is derived from their name, and all 19 of the Hassan-i-Sabbah can be summoned in the Assassin class," Jeanne explained.
"Thank you, Jeanne." Ichigo turned back to Zealot. "So, Zealot, what abilities do you possess?"
"Zealot has Zabaniya: Phantasmal Pedigree."
"What does it do?"
"Zabaniya: Phantasmal Pedigree allows Zealot to copy the Zabaniya of the other 18 Hassan-i-Sabbah."
"What are they?" Ichigo asked.
"The first Zabaniya is called Azazel." Zealot drew a hidden knife, which began to glow violet before expanding into the shape of a large broadsword. "Zealot can use it to instantly kill a target, no matter their immortality. However, Zealot can only use it once a week." Ichigo nodded. Zealot returned the broadsword to its knife form and concealed it.
"The next Zabaniya is Delusional Heartbeat." Zealot raised her right hand, which elongated and turned red, now twice as long as her height. "Zealot can create a mirror image of the target's heart. If Zealot crushes the fake heart, the target's heart is crushed. Zealot can also switch their hearts and consume it for intelligence. But Zealot needs to touch the target."
"What's the next one?" Ichigo asked as her hand returned to normal.
"The next Zabaniya is called Cyber Phantasm, which allows Zealot to turn the target's brain to gunpowder, causing it to explode and destroy the upper half of their body." Ichigo nodded for her to continue.
"The next Zabaniya is called Dead Heartbeat Melody." Zealot's shadow began to move, and a hand made of her shadow rose. "If Zealot's shadow hand touches the target's chest, it can blow a hole through the body."
"I see," Ichigo said. "Is there anything that doesn't kill the target?"
"The next Zabaniya is called Sweet Dreams. I can blast my target with a sleeping toxin, paralysis toxin, or poisonous toxin."
"Okay," Ichigo said. "At least she has something that doesn't immediately kill her target."
"The next Zabaniya is Delusional Poison Body, which turns every part of Zealot's body, including her bodily fluids, into deadly poison."
"Is the poison from Zabaniya Sweet Dreams the same as from Delusional Poison Body?" Ichigo asked.
"Zealot believes they are different poisons, but Zealot isn't sure." Ichigo nodded. "This is the sixth one… and there are twelve more. Shit, she's going to be a wild card," Ichigo thought.
"The next Zabaniya is called Void's Abyss," Zealot said as the shadow shifted once more, and she was quickly swallowed up by it. Ichigo and his servants looked around, trying to locate her. A few seconds later, she reappeared. "It allows me to enter the shadows, making me undetectable by all forms of detection."
"Impressive," Ichigo said. "Not even I could sense her, and I'm her master."
"Thank you, my God," Zealot replied, and Ichigo mentally groaned. "After that, Zealot has Zabaniya Umbra's Blades." The shadows shifted into blades. "It allows me to create blades from the shadows." She grabbed one of the blades, twirling it skillfully before vanishing back into the shadow. The blades disappeared with her. "The next one is called Zabaniya Shining Stars. It lets me summon balls of radiant light to blind my targets," Zealot explained as she began gathering mana around her hands.
"Zealot, no need to demonstrate that. We understand," Ichigo interrupted.
"Very well, my God," she replied, allowing the mana to dissipate harmlessly. "Zabaniya Febrile Inspiration is a simple ability that hardens my skin into diamonds," she said, her skin taking on a gray tint. "The next one is called Zabaniya Ichor of Reverie. Zealot can hum a certain melody to disrupt brain signals or control magical circuits."
"That ability would be a game-changer against any Magus," Ichigo thought.
"Next is Zabaniya Meditative Sensitivity. It lets me temporarily bypass all of Zabaniya's physical limitations for a few minutes. Unfortunately, I can only use it once a week," Zealot added.
"So, a temporary limit breaker," Ichigo mentally mused.
"Next is Zabaniya Raving Shadow Flash." Zealot's hair began to float. "My hair becomes a weapon," she said, twirling it as it shifted into deadly blades.
"Wow. Those idiots are fools," Ichigo remarked.
"Zealot is not worthy of your praise, my God," she replied. "The next two are Zabaniya Eye of Truth and Zabaniya Eye of Lies." Zealot removed the black veil from her face. "The Eye of Truth allows me to see the truth of whatever is in my sights. It also prevents me from missing my target." Her right eye began to glow white. "Meanwhile, the Eye of Lies creates an illusion if the target gazes into my left eye." Her left eye glowed golden.
"Interesting ability," Ichigo commented. "I wonder if the Eye of Truth could see through Kyōka's illusion," he thought as Zealot deactivated both eyes.
"The next one is Zabaniya Eyes of Death." Zealot's eyes began to glow in a spectrum of colors. "I can see the strings of death, and I can cut those strings to kill anything."
"Does this apply only to living things?"
"No, my God. Everything has a Sting of Death."
"I see..." Ichigo said, his mind racing with thoughts with all being focused on one thought "I have too many questions about that ability."
"Zealot's final ability is Zabaniya Perish Song." Zealot summoned a bone-white flute, the tip adorned with a skull. "When I play this flute, all enemies who hear its song are cursed for all eternity."
"What kinds of curses can you inflict?"
"I can unleash their deepest fears, drive them to madness, and subject them to unspeakable horrors, my God," Zealot explained.
Ichigo nodded, trying to ignore her obsessive devotion. "It's getting late. Let's get some sleep." He turned and began walking upstairs. The others followed, but Ichigo noticed Zealot wasn't moving. He sighed. "You too, Zealot."
"Thank you, my God," she replied, trailing behind the rest. They quietly entered the master bedroom.
"So, Master, how are we going to sleep in this single bed?" Akasha teased.
"I'm going to the bathroom to change and take a quick shower. You all figure it out during that time," Ichigo said as he walked past them into the bathroom. He mentally blocked his connection to his servants to avoid any further chaos.
"You know they'll get back at you, right?" Yhwach remarked.
"I know. I know," Ichigo replied as he undressed and stepped into the shower. It was then that he realized something important he had yet to do.
"Shit. I didn't tell the others," Ichigo muttered. He quickly contacted the remaining members of his peerage to inform them about the Holy Grail War, excluding certain details like the identities of his servants and the war's location. After calming their concerns, Ichigo finished his shower and dried off. He put on a white T-shirt and boxers before opening the door.
Inside, all his servants except Zealot and Jeanne were wearing manic smiles. Ichigo sighed and made his way to the bed. As soon as he lay down, he felt something unusual about the pillow. When he opened his eyes, he realized he wasn't resting on a pillow at all—he was lying on Raikou's lap.
"Don't worry, Master. Mama Raikou will take care of you," she said sweetly. Ichigo noticed that Raikou's eyes held the same look as Zealot's—the same eager devotion. Unlike Zealot, Raikou viewed him as her child to protect. Before Ichigo could move, his arms were captured by Akasha and Gilgamesh, who squeezed him between their breasts.
"You're not going anywhere, Ichigo," Akasha said with a smile.
"Master, we may not have known each other for long, but you don't dare flee from feminine danger," Gilgamesh said with a grin.
Ichigo sighed in defeat as he felt his legs captured by Zealot and Scáthach. Artoria and Jeanne happily nestled beside Akasha and Gilgamesh. Ichigo closed his eyes, hoping for some rest, though he had no doubt sleep would be hard to come by.
Author's note:
(1) Jugaro is a spell from Zatch Bell.
(2) Alucard's outfit from Hellsing/Hellsing Ultimate.