Fate/Blackened Sugar

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Use your handgun and Shoot through their magical defenses. You have six magazines worth of ammunition, no need to be stingy now.

They were going to expect you to use your magecraft against them. You already managed to give their buddies a taste of what you're capable of so they might be on guard. It's as you expected it, which means that you had room for a new bag of tricks. You sheathed your cane by your side and drew your gun from its holster behind your waist. You weren't a bad shot but you preferred not firing with one hand either.

You weren't a stranger to firearms and they came in handy when you were in a pinch. They were faster than most chanted spells and could catch even an experienced Magus by surprise. Such was the tactic used by the notorious Magus Killer two decades back. Even now, such tactics were being used by people like you whom tend to clash with other Magi or Enforcers.

You felt your circuits flare and create a crow from a piece of paper you tore from a book. The spike of magical power you released no doubt caught their attention but they were distracted by the crow you sent flying up the air.

It was here you drew your gun and stepped out of the aisle. You took aim and fired the first shot, striking a man straight into his neck. His buddy reacted in alarm and raised a protective barrier in response, a barrier which only held back magical projectiles. 45 caliber bullets flew through the barriers and punched two holes into the man's chest.

You dashed and ran to the next aisle as you heard shouts of alarm.

"He's got a gun!"

"He's a Magus, why would he have a gun?!"

"Get him! Apply your enchantments! Don't let him get the drop on you!"

You had your back against a shelf before you popped out and fired. Your gun uttered four more loud reports and downing one more hunter on your track. They reinforced their limbs to rush towards you and drew their blades. You released your gun's magazine and activated a charm which switched the empty magazine with a filled one as you rolled back to evade.

Raising your gun, you fired and landed a shot into the nearest man's shoulder before sidestepping a baton swing from the other. You shot his knee, causing him to fall before you blew his brains out. The injured man you shot lunged with his blade as you leaned back to dodge and fire from your hip, forcing him to double over as you passed him and shot him beside his skull.

Blood flew into the air as you moved to the stairs leading to the next floor. Ascending the steps, you came upon another room filled with aisles. A man cloaked in a spell swung his metal rod at you, forcing you to roll. Recovering, you raised your gun but the hunter managed to kick it out of your hand. You were forced to reinforce your legs and land a kick into his stomach, sending him flying across the room.

Metal needles flew from above you as you dived for your gun. You reloaded as two more hunters appeared with one wielding a claw to swipe upwards your way. You dodged before he swung it back, allowing you to catch it with your forearm and wrapping your own limb around his own. Pulling the trigger twice, you shot him in the stomach as his comrade moved to help.

Swinging his body, you used him as a shield before releasing him as his friend's claw was lodged into his chest. You stepped aside and aimed for the next man's head and fired. You kept moving as you came upon two hounds made out of prana bounding towards you. They bared their fangs as you hit the floor and slid beneath their pounce.

The hounds slid as they landed while you kept running, they snarled and barked as you tried making your into an aisle. The hounds glowed crimson as magical circles marked their entire bodies, they were like homing missiles driven to get to you no matter the cost. You etched a rune as you ran and had the seven feet tall shelves collapse behind you. You dived out as the magical hounds were crushed behind you.

A hunter turned in alarm towards you before you dodged his first strike, kicking the back of his knee before shooting his shoulder. You then rolled on the ground to avoid more iron needles flying towards you as you reloaded and fired back at your foes. One of them got close enough with a knife to force you to face him just as he sent you flying straight into a wall.

You coughed as you slid down before a boot came flying for your face. You rolled to evade before the hunter brandished his blade towards your face. A cut stung your cheek before you aimed for his chest to fire thrice. A man then came up behind you from stealth and held you up from the back just as another appeared with a reinforced baton.

Reinforcing your foot, you stomped it on your restrainer's shoe and forced him to double over. You then used his momentum to lift him with your back and roll him over you into the path of his comrade. You watched as the second man jump over the body and drive a knife into your left shoulder. You gasped in pain before he pinned you against a shelf. Letting go of your gun, you grabbed hold of his arm and pulled him close to smash your head against his. That loosened his grip before kicking him back, leaving the knife on your shoulder.

Pulling the blade out, you then stepped forward as the man moved to kick you. You weaved low and turned, cutting across his thigh and forcing him down. You then plunged the blade into his neck and cut before kicking him aside.

More hunters appeared and forced you to throw the knife at them. They dodged but it gave you enough time to dive and grab your gun, shooting two of them before the third began calling forth the crimson hounds again. You turned and vaulted over a sofa before hooking it with your foot and reinforcing your leg, lifting it up the air and having the two hounds smash into it. They pulverized the sofa as you took aim and shot their summoner between the eyes.

The hounds quickly dissipated, leaving you all by yourself. You winced as you felt the stinging pain of your wound on your shoulder. You turned away and started moving just as you saw something glint in the distance. You barely had time to react as you shouted.

"AEGIS!" you snarled as the golden shield of light erupted beside you, catching an arrow that punched through the window at full force. Upon striking your barrier, Aegis shattered and sent you flying across the room straight into a bookshelf. You hit it with enough force to send it toppling over, hitting one shelf after the other.

Clap

Clap

Clap

Clap

You raised your gaze to see Matthias standing beneath the moonlight, clapping his hands before stopping.

"You live up to your reputation," he said as he glanced at his grunts, "They were fine mercenaries too. They weren't pushovers."

"Save me the speech. You want a piece of me or what?" you growled as you raised your gun at him.

Matthias smirked and shook his head, "I would rather not get my hands dirty. You've done well dispatching these bodies... In fact, you did so well that why don't you... Do it all over again?"

The Mercenary produced a silver bell from his pocket and rung it once. It produced a clear sound which echoed throughout the fourth floor. The man smiled before you noticed the corpses twitch.

"I found Archer. She's got you on her sights. Are you okay?"

"Yeah. I just have some new friends to play with," you growled as the bodies of the men you slew all got up one by one. Staggering to their feet, they stood unsteadily like puppets guided by an invisible hand.

The groans of the Undead soon filled the room.

You lowered your gun and holstered it back behind your waist. You endured the pain of your wound as Matthias spread his arms.

"Show me a good time, Mr. Derrinsmith," the Mercenary taunted as he let the Undead all move towards you.

Deadlock
​

[] Use your Cane. It was time to cast some Curses.
[] Use your Pen. You can deal with these things with your Runes.
[] Order Assassin to switch targets. You'll lower Matthias' guard by running so she can kill him from stealth.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

Adhoc vote count started by AnonymousRabbit on Nov 19, 2020 at 1:04 PM, finished with 20 posts and 17 votes.

• ---

  12 people have voted

  [X] Use your Cane. It was time to cast some Curses.

  • ChildishChimera
  • Frozen Flame
  • SwiftRosenthal
  • Muramasa
  • Impstar
  • catDreaming
  • Spectral Waltz
  • The-Chained-One
  • NephyrisX
  • GGreader
  • kr3850
  • mudadio

  3 people have voted

  [X] Use your Pen. You can deal with these things with your Runes.

  • dat_noob1926812
  • Neo-Chan
  • keykingdom

  2 people have voted

  [X] Order Assassin to switch targets. You'll lower Matthias' guard by running so she can kill him from stealth.

  • gale
  • Tiny_Dic

Votes closed

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Use your Cane. It was time to cast some Curses.


What a cocky bastard.

You drew your cane and struck the ground with it. The Undead lunged at you with staggering speed, forcing you to dash back to get some distance. Matthias watched with a small smile as you channeled your magical energy into your cane. You then struck the ground before you and released the magical energy gathered through the cane to form black needles behind you. You raised your mystic code and flung them at your foes.

Each needle sunk into each Undead's chest before beginning to siphon magical energy keeping them animated. Matthias reacted by raising his bell again and ringing it, causing a backflow of energy to go through the needles. The Undead then grew more active as they lunged at you. You ran the shaft of your cane against your open wound, coating it with your blood.

Splashing the ground red, you then spoke, "Souls of Malevolence, I offer you Time. Manifest before me and heed my command."

Matthias raised an eyebrow, "Evocation? I see, Evil Spirits, huh?"

Malevolent Specters reacted to your call with violent fervor. Your will directing them to the Undead as they robbed them of the magical energy keeping them moving. You then struck your cane on the ground and forced the temperature to drop within the room, causing both you and Matthias to have your breaths smoke.

The Mercenary waited just as the claw of a Ghost moved to swipe at him, only for him to dodge. You drew your cane's blade and rushed him, using reinforcement on your legs to slash at him. You both reacted as an arrow shot through the window to get in between of you. Wood and paper flew through the air as the nearby bookshelf was demolished.

You thrust your blade only to find the Mercenary lean back out of your range.

"Assassin, now!" you barked as the snake waiting within your sleeve slithered out and jumped.

Matthias was caught off guard and was forced to sacrifice his forearm to block it. The snake sank its fangs into his flesh while you managed to give him a light cut on the side.

"Not bad," he hissed as he took the black snake and tossed it aside.

You then held your bloodstained blade to the side before producing a straw doll from your coat. Ghosts moved into swarm Matthias but he held up what looked like another mystic code which dispelled them. A forceful banishment from this world. Throwing the doll into the ground, you then stabbed it with your blade coated with the tiny bit of the Mercenary's blood.

"Haglaz," Matthias etched a rune in the air and rained down hail upon you as biting pain struck his chest.

Taking your blade out, you also took the Doll as you dodged out of the way. You then slammed the doll into a shelf and watched the Mercenary stagger from the effects. Blood had a strong connection to your target after all and try as he might he couldn't just shrug it off. You tensed as another Arrow flew towards you and forced you to jump back, the blast from the impact sending you flying back.

You dropped the doll as you tried to catch your breath. You rolled on your back as you got to your feet again, watching the Mercenary pick up the straw doll.

"This feeling I have," Matthias said as he inspected the Doll, "I feel my strength waning. What is it?"

"Assassin's snake. You'll only get weaker by the moment. It should give me enough time to take you down," you replied as you leaned on your sword-cane, your shadow bleeding into the ground, "Still, you haven't shown all of your cards."

"Neither have you," Matthias said as he began to weave another Rune.

"I offer Time. Two years of my life," you began as you stepped forward.

Matthias' eyes widened, "You?!"

Lances of water shot from above to strike at your body. You managed to cut them as you reinforced your body and reacted as fast as you could. Runes lit up beneath your clothes as you finished your chant.

"Inari's Wisps," you breathed as two balls of blue flames danced around you to fly towards your foe.

"Algiz," Matthias etched in the air to catch the wisps, only for them to violently explode and swallow his right side. He narrowed his gaze as his flesh burned and water formed around him to snuff it out. However the flames did not die and sought to consume his limb.

He then turned to you and asked, "You... In the past ten years, how many times have you offered your lifespan for your curses?"

You didn't answer him. You simply shot forward with your blade as his entire body lit up with runes as well. He grabbed a book from a nearby shelf and reinforced it. Using the book to block your sword, he smiled down on you. You pushed against him yet the book refused to be cut by your weapon.

"I see... You're insane after all, Mr. Derrinsmith," Matthias laughed as he knocked aside your sword. You braced yourself and evaded being bashed by the book he held, "I doubt you even have ten years left to live! How much time do you have left? That body of yours, how much more fighting can it take? Tell me, Mr. Derrinsmith, is this all worth it?"

Matthias raised his leg to perform a kick while you turned to avoid it. You slashed up but he blocked with that damned book again. It was only then you realized that he was holding what looked like a leather bound edition of the Bible to stop your sword.

"What is it that's waiting for you at the end of these battles? Would it truly be worth the price? You don't care about your life, do you?" Matthias hissed as he met your gaze, "Dying doesn't faze you at all in the end, but you would fight tooth and nail to get there. So why don't we cut off the middleman and send you to the afterlife!"

The book was set on fire before Matthias threw it on the ground, the burning pages flourishing outwards between you two. Matthias stepped through the flames and managed to land a punch into your face. You flew back, smashing through several bookshelves before hitting a wall, the taste of blood filling your mouth.

"Burn him!" you roared as the wisps under your command intensified their flames, burning flesh and skin off the Mercenary's arm. However he remained unfazed as the fire blazed on his side.

"You could have lived a better life than this. You could have surpassed a lot of people. You know what, Mr. Derrinsmith... I respect you," Matthias said as his arm burned from your cursed fire, "Doing as you please, living as you wish, few people can truly say that they're capable of what you're doing."

"But I don't suppose that's enough to get you to fuck off," you growled as you got up.

Matthias chuckled as he held his burning arm, ripping it off his shoulder to prevent the flames from climbing up his body. The flames still recognized him as your target so they simply latched on to his other arm to continue consuming him.

"Oh no. I simply think that it would be a shame if Minerva killed you first. Allow me to have the honors," Matthias said as he stopped before you and patting his bleeding shoulder, "Now we match. It's a fair fight now."

"Found her."

"Let's go," you barked as you got up your feet and charged, wrapping your arm around Matthias and shoving him out the window behind him.

.....
....
...

Assassin ran across the rooftop's side and jumped. The cold winter air bit into her flesh as she drew her sword and descended upon the Archer perched on the side of the roof. Archer turned and fired at her, leaving a serpent in the air as a sacrifice while Assassin landed on the ground. Archer drew another bow and aimed down but Assassin was too close.

The Shinobi managed to swat aside the arrow flying towards her and drive her sword into Archer's heart. Pushing off the Servant off the building, Assassin grit her teeth before she saw Archer smiling at her as they fell.

.....
....
...

Glass was flung in the air as you and Matthias fell, slamming hard on the roof of a car before the Mercenary grabbed you by your clothes and threw you overboard. You hit the cold pavement of the parking lot as you got up, stumbling and slipping on the icy floor. Matthias got off the car and simply staggered a bit before he started recovering using his runes.

You found your voice called out, "To me!"

The wisps ceased their consumption of Matthias' arm and moved to protect you just as the Mercenary himself used his reinforced strength to throw a car at you. The wisps joined as one to grow to a size to burn through the car itself, leaving a hole for you to let it pass. You looked up to see that runes had managed to stall the curse's effects and do minimal damage to the Merc.

"Well then... A job's a job," Matthias said as he held up his left hand and displayed his command seal, "By the order of my Command Seal, come to me, Archer!"

Your eyes widened just as scarlet light burst forth before you.

"I suggest you start running," Matthias advised you as the first mark of his three seals vanished.

"Hans! Archer disappeared!" Assassin yelled into your connection.

Prices
​

[] Take a hint. Book it. Run towards Assassin, you'll come up with something.
[] Use your Second Command Seal, summon Assassin to where you are and confront your enemies.
[] Buy time for Assassin to get to you. She can conceal herself while Matthias plays with his food (you) and wait for the opportunity to strike.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Take a hint. Book it. Run towards Assassin, you'll come up with.

Time to go!

You turned and broke into a run. You didn't even wait for Archer to fully manifest as you ran and hit the ground, sliding beneath a pick up truck just as an arrow blew it's top clean off.

"Fuck, shit, shit, shit!" You screamed as Archer moved in to hunt you down.

You held out your cane and launched your wisps at her but she simply weaved through them. Archer had a cruel smile on her lips as she took aim and fired. One of her arrows managed to hit your back, sending you flying forward and sliding behind cover.

Gasping for breath, you tried getting up as you looked up to find Archer looking down at you.

"Sowilo," you chanted upon etching your rune. A burst of fire erupted before you, exploding outwards and sending you flying back while sliding on the ground.

Gritting your teeth, you watched Archer fire from the flames while you evaded. There was still the arrow stuck to your back to worry about but you didn't have the luxury of getting rid of it.

Dragging your sword cane along the ground, you splashed your blood into the air. Manipulating your magical energy, you turned them into black crows. Archer smiled and shot them apart as they flew, scattering black feathers into the air.

"Burst," you breathed as the feathers created a wall of fire to which your wisps flew through to get at Archer.

The Servant smashed the apart but the wisps maintained their forms. This allowed you to weave another rune into existence followed by another. You distracted her while making more and more.

They each lit up before Archer turned to face you. She was then dragged down to one knee before she realized what was happening.

"Gravity?" She mused as you ran away.

You had to get some distance. Get her attention.

Faster, you need to go faster! An arrow flew towards you and you managed to throw your body to the side and hit the ground. You hissed in pain just as Archer came flying at you.

Good.

She must have noticed your smile as she hesitated in her next attack.

"Which will be faster? Your arrow or my Assassin?" You asked as she hit the ground and drew her bow.

In the distance, Matthias tensed as he looked to the side. A snake hissed at him from the floor as a shadow appeared behind him. Archer fired her arrow but Chiyome was faster, she managed to drive her sword straight into Matthias's back right through his chest.

Blood flew through the air as the Mercenary turned to see the Servant behind him. But then... Assassin still had to dodge Archer's arrow as she pulled her blade out. Chiyome failed to notice Matthias turning and performing a kick to hit her.

"Watch it!" You barked and your Servant flipped out of the way.

Archer sighed as she lowered her bow, "There it goes. That's one slot, Master. The next one will kill you for real."

"It's fine," Matthias replied as his chest regenerated, "Your blood is doing miracles, Archer."

Your eyes widened as the Master and Servant duo smiled at you as if they knew the world's greatest joke. They had you tricked, huh? It would seem that they still had cards under their sleeves.

"You ingested your Servant's blood? Well, did Priestess Yao's blood taste similar to a mermaid?" You scoffed as you held your cane.

"It was horrible but a worthy sacrifice when up against you. Now what was it? Which one will be faster, Archer's Arrow or your Assassin?" Matthias sneered as Archer fired at you.

You jerked your body and moved your shoulder into the arrow's trajectory. She was aiming for your neck, huh? The arrow hit you with the force of a professional boxer striking your flesh. You flew back a few feet as Assassin cried out your name.

"Hans!" Chiyome yelled as she moved.

Archer turned and slung her bow behind her, "I've been waiting for this."

She finally pulled the glaive behind her back and swung it hard. Assassin drew her sword and blocked the incoming blow. Pushing back, she manages to send Archer staggering as the latter began her attack.

Stepping forward, Archer created large sweeping motions while Assassin deflected and blocked each blow. Assassin pushed within Archer's guard and deflected upon reaching two paces away from her foe. However instead of striking, she went past Archer to get to your side, not before leaving three pellets in the air just as they exploded. This robbed her enemy of her vision before sliding next to you and inspecting your wound.

"I'm fine," you breathed as you ignored the arrows on your back and shoulder, "Focus on the fight."

Archer moved in but Assassin was ready. She raised her sword and took the blow head on without deflecting it. You etched a rune on her back as she had her power boosted by your magecraft. She managed to push away Archer and send her sliding back. Assassin didn't relent, jumping and swinging her leg down at her foe. Archer evaded and the ground split from Assassin's attack. She kicked off the ground and the two exchanged a flurry of blows once more.

Seeing a pattern, Archer took a gamble and thrust her glaive. This only allowed Assassin to sidestep it and stomp on her foe's weapon.

"Fantastic," Archer laughed as Assassin cut at her neck, tearing flesh and bone. Blood danced as Assassin managed to jump away with her blow but Archer had managed to grab her ankle. Chiyome was slammed back into the ground before Archer drove her glaive down to stab her, just as Assassin drew a kunai to let the glaive pass over her head and rip off her ribbon concealing her eye.

"Time and again we clashed yet you never ceased to surprise me! Exceptional. You're truly an exceptional woman," Archer giggled as she watched Assassin cut open her eyes.

A line split across Archer's eyes and loosened her grip, allowing your Servant to roll back. The Immortal regenerated and the Shinobi reacted. Throwing pellets into the air, they exploded into flashes of light but the sound of steel was still heard. You noticed something fly past you and noticed that it was the kunai Assassin had been using.

Then that meant...

Archer had struck it out of the air as Assassin used the length of her glaive to stand on. Chiyome then held her sword in a reverse grip and shot downwards, jamming her sword into Archer's heart. Their faces were inches from one another, each representing an opposite emotion. Archer's face was filled with bloodlust and a gleeful smile while Assassin remained cold and calm as she administered this second kill.

"Don't get cocky, Shinobi," Archer growled as she let go of her glaive and grabbed Chiyome by her neck, slamming her down.

Assassin didn't react even as she bled, wrapping her legs around Archer's arm and dislocating it, allowing her to escape. Archer regenerated and Assassin prepared another killing blow.

The cycle repeated.

" Swirl of the Sun(Flame Arts: Rakhasa's Wheel)," Chiyome's sword was lit ablaze by a spark. However Assassin didn't use that as her primary weapon. Instead she went with her kunai to deal her cuts and merely used the flaming sword for defense.

She then managed to deflect the to the right of her, turning her kunai in her hand and throwing it. Archer managed to catch it the blade digging through her palm but Assassin moved to drive it further, straight through the Servant's arm into her chest.

"Hot..." Archer breathed as the kunai punctured her lung and the flaming sword passed through her. Her eyes widened at what the Shinobi was after.

You did too as you continued watching... Chiyome was cauterizing cuts and bleeding wound. It would slow and hinder regeneration... Even for a split second!

While she was busy healing, Assassin can strike harder. Cutting, slicing, stabbing, every technique and killing blow Assassin employed to each move. Like a game of shogi continuing at a rapid pace, she sought to corner her foe into the inevitable loss. But her foe was immortal, undying even, her blade and techniques could only push her so far. Fortunately for her... She was Cursed.

As such that put her above the common Shinobi and with your help, Assassin had managed to hone her powers and control it. Black snakes appeared behind her as she fought, striking within the patterns Chiyome had lulled Archer into following. Archer's smile turned into a frown before she slammed her glaive into the ground just as a snake went for her eyes.

Catching the Serpent, she crushed it in her hand as a flaming sword followed. Blocking the sword, the flames and embers danced in her vision at just the right moment for Assassin to sink three kunai behind her back. Assassin tore them all down and cut open Archer's back before using the last kunai to sever her spine.

"I told you it's useless!" Archer snapped as she swung her glaive and pushed Assassin back.

This should be enough. You stood up on your feet and felt your strength waver. You raised your head as you let out a breath, "Done observing?"

"Yes. Now comes the real deal," Assassin said as she pulled her sword stuck on the ground.

Matthias clapped his hand as Archer jumped away and took his side. He smiled before spreading his arms, "Rather stubborn, aren't you two? Killing an Immortal is harder than you think."

"But let's make this bout one to remember, Shinobi," Archer added as she rested her glaive over her shoulder.

All bets are off. The Real battle starts here.

Spoiler: BGM

GRAND BATTLE
VS
ARCHER
YAO BIKUNI

Killing an Immortal
​

[] Use a Command Seal and End this quickly. Use Assassin's Noble Phantasm as an opening.
[] You're wounded but you'll have to endure. Attrition seemed to be working well for Assassin. Let her observe and study some more.
[] Don't let Assassin hesitate. The two of you will fight together if you have to. Use her skills and your tactics to systematically take down Archer.
[] Archer mentioned that Matthias was on his last slot. That meant his safety net is gone. You'll go after him while Assassin deals with Archer.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Don't let Assassin hesitate. The two of you will fight together if you have to. Use her skills and your tactics to systematically take down Archer.

Assassin and Archer moved first while you and Matthias weaved runes. You managed to counter his flames with your ice as the two Servants clashed. He then focused to strengthening his Servant using a charm but you were prepared to intercept his attempts with a hex. A swirling cluster of magical energy flew towards him but Archer had time to knock it out of the air while dealing with Assassin.

Chiyome didn't miss a beat and continued her assault, clashing and striking, the sound of steel against steel echoed in the parking lot while you sent your wisps into the air. One of them crashed between Archer and Assassin, only for the latter to dip her blade into it and cutting. Archer deflected the strike and jumped to slam her glaive into the ground. The pavement split, sending rocks flying but Assassin flipped back, striking one stone out of the air to shoot it towards her foe.

Blocking the projectile, Archer switched back to her bow. She let loose a hail of arrows from above, prompting you to step forward and raise your hand.

"AEGIS!" you roared as the arrows cracked open your barrier.

Looking to the side, you and Assassin exchanged looks while you reinforced your legs. Archer kept firing as you jumped towards her while Assassin went for Matthias.

"You're both insane!" Archer laughed as she dived towards you.

She switched to her glaive and gave it a mighty swing. Her eyes widened to find that your body wasn't actually real, only a guise used by Assassin to make her drop her guard. Chiyome performed an air step thanks to your Runes while you charged straight for Matthias. Assassin sped up and smashed into Archer, jamming her blade into the woman's body once more while you revealed your true form to Matthias.

Dragging your sword cane along the ground, you swung it up to which the Mercenary smiled.

"Ehwaz!" he snapped as he stopped your weapon with his hand.

"Aegis," you snarled as the shield expanded between you two, pushing you both back. Matthias clenched his fist while you readied your blade by reinforcing it. You watched his hand as he lunged at you before you kicked off the ground. Jumping over his punch, you analyzed the situation before spotting your chance.

Matthias leaned forward and barely evaded your blade just as you landed on the ground. He turned as you proceeded with your attack, sliding beneath a wave of fire before he clenched his to punch you into the ground. Stabbing your sword into the ground, you stopped yourself before raising your leg and landing a hit on his chin.

Turning, you drew your sword and cut as he bent his back before you sidestepped his kick. You moved to slice his leg but he was faster than you, pulling his leg back in tandem with your swing before throwing a punch. You leaned to the right to evade before moving past him, cutting as you did and forcing him back.

"These reflexes, now these are what I expect from a man that won those wars," Matthias nodded as he dashed towards you. You didn't evade and simply raised your guard, allowing his fist to smash into your arm and send you sliding back.

He was confused. He fully expected you to dodge.

It was right about time.

Assassin and Archer crashed between the two of you. Chiyome was kicked away by Archer and sent rolling into the ground, the latter Servant instinctively moving to protect her Master as Assassin threw her kunai.

"That won't work!" Archer barked as she drew her own katana on her hip and knocked the projectiles out of the air.

"Wisps!" You snapped as the two flames danced around you before flying towards her. Archer cut the wisps with her blade while Assassin tossed pellets into the air, a cascade of explosions following it loud enough to deafen even you.

5...

4...

They haven't noticed.

Matthias focused his gaze and tensed.

3...

2...

He tried calling out to his Servant but she couldn't hear him. He was forced to step back, making Archer turn to him in confusion. She realized too late what was on her while being so close in proximity with her Master. A red ball was ticking away with a lit fuse attached to Archer's back.

1...

BOOM

The bomb burst, knocking Archer forward but the explosion was strong enough to engulf Matthias as well, sending him flying straight into a nearby car. You acted quickly and etched a Rune from afar as Archer lunged at you. Chiyome intercepted her and cut off her hand while you completed another Rune.

"Ansuz," you breathed and the car's gas tank ignited, causing it to explode once more.

Matthias wasn't dead yet.

Archer regenerated her arm before clashing with Chiyome's sword. The two of them struck and deflected each other's attacks however Chiyome was faster, pushing herself against her foe and never hesitating. One wrong move could be death after all so she fought with all she had. Taking a stand, never doubting her movements, it was the essence of a killer, of a true Shinobi.

Assassin managed to disarm Archer's sword by sacrificing her own but a Shinobi's tools didn't end with their blades. She raised her leg and aimed a kick for Archer's neck. Archer blocked before holes appeared on her clothes as Assassin used her fingers to tear her flesh open. Archer swung her arm, forcing Assassin to block before the two of them traded blows.

Blood danced in the air as the two Servants fought.

Archer blocked and dodged while Assassin struck and pushed. The former employed Chinese kenpo to her unarmed combat while the latter utilized strict and flexible taijutsu. Assassin wasn't letting up even as her blows whiffed and she was struck in turn, Assassin was able to blow past each strike and attack Archer's vitals over and over.

"You can't kill me like this, haven't you realized yet? You will die here, Shinobi!" Archer declared as she drew her glaive.

Matthias rose from the flames and held out his hand, "By my Command Seal, Archer, use your Noble Phantasm!"

"Assassin, now!" you barked as Archer made her move only for the world to turn dark and you found yourself in a different place. Gone was the ruined parking lot and the devastated library. You were standing at the sea floor as bubbles came from below and fish swam around you. This was Archer's true Noble Phantasm?

You and Assassin stood before a cliff leading to the dark depths of the Ocean below. You both turned to see a large hand pull its body up and reveal the titanic form of a woman. It was the visage of Archer with her body transformed similar to that of a mermaid, her entire lower body now resembling a fish's.

A kind and patient smile filled her lips as she swam away from you and Assassin. She then drew upon a bow of coral and notched an arrow of pure light.

" Beacon of the Eightfold Path(Light of Nirvana)," Archer declared as she took aim at you and Assassin.

Assassin paused at the sight before you grabbed her shoulder. She met your gaze and you smiled at her, allowing her to gather her courage. The old her would have hesitated for longer, but this time, the two of you were together. You turned her curse into a gift you can both wield. This was the reward Orochi bestowed her for overcoming her Curse.

And so, Chiyome drew a familiar sword.

A long o'katana which shimmered in the undersea light filled her grasp. You felt something swell in your chest. Assassin glanced your way and smiled.

"I'll protect you."

You stared at her before smiling. Of course she would.

"Go!" you ordered her as she stepped forward.

Archer let loose her arrow while Assassin raised her sword.

Chiyome's serpent marks shined as fireflies danced around her, walking two steps and swinging down, " Snake Slaying Dance of Heaven(Ame no Habakiri)."

.....
....
...

Saber tensed and looked to a direction. He felt something... familiar. Looking down at the blade in his hand, he comforted himself with its weight. Resting it against his shoulder, he smiled and wondered if he can find the source of this feeling. Perhaps if he was quick enough here, he can get to looking for it.

He turned to the purple haired woman before him wielding her scythe.

Saber and Lancer moved as they clashed once more.

.....
....
...


The Ocean was split. A grand slash pulsed forth a brilliant blue flash which sliced through Archer's arrow. Archer's eyes widened in the distance before she too was cut. The waters were split down to its very atom and Archer's scream echoed within the Reality Marble, her immortality having brushed against certain death from Chiyome's swing.

Light filled your eyes until you realized that you were back in the parking lot. Your gaze fell upon Archer falling down her knees, her body shimmering as she bled from a wound that refused to heal. She grit her teeth and smiled, rising up to pick up her glaive as she swung at Assassin. Chiyome used Ame no Habakiri to block and deflect her foe's blow.

Matthias fell down his knees and coughed out blood. That Noble Phantasm must have taken a toll on his body but it wasn't just him. You felt your insides burn hot as the cost of launching Chiyome's Noble Phantasm wore on you as well. You and Matthias were injured on the same level.

Assassin and Archer continued their bout, clashing and striking one another as neither seemed to be backing down. Assassin jumped over a sweeping slash by Archer, turning to land a kick on the woman's face. Archer caught her leg and threw her to the wall, dodging as the former fired several arrows towards her.

Nimbly landing on the ground, Assassin shot towards Archer and slashed. Her blow was caught by Archer before the two of them bounced away from another.

Assassin let outa breath as she held her sword while Archer regenerated from what wounds she sustained. The latter's glaive finally crumbled from the furious exchanges, forcing Archer to draw her sword. She jumped and thrust, to which Assassin anticipated and deflected. Chiyome then turned into a swirl of blades with the purpose of breaking Archer's guard open.

You took this chance to reinforce your legs and dashed towards Matthias where he knelt on the ground. You drew close as he turned towards you with his final Command Seal, "Archer!"

Crimson light burst forth in front of him just as a sword flew towards you.

You didn't dodge and felt the sword stab into your side. It plunged deep and went out of your back. You could feel the white hot pain barely graze your right lung. Matthias' eyes widened but you didn't have your eyes on him. You had your eyes on Archer as you pressed your hand at the center of her chest.

A black box appeared.

" Black Box of Calamity(Faux Pandora)," you rasped as Archer found herself enveloped by your Curses. Her body was assailed by hundreds upon hundreds of agonizing curses, every curse known to man ravaged her form.

But before she could tear the sword out of you, Assassin managed to intercept her and cut off her arm.

You smiled as Assassin pulled you away, raising your bloody hand up, "Fuck you."

Archer screamed as she was covered in curses, staggering back before falling down her knees. Matthias had no more Command Seals and he couldn't possibly have a counter curse for every one that ravaged Archer's body. It was through her sheer will that she managed to rise up and grab her sword.

"SHINOBI!" she roared.

But Chiyome only had eyes on you. She set you on the ground as you manifested Elpis as well, the silver sword shimmering in your hand as you handed it to her. Archer brought down her blade as Assassin turned, clashing once more, their gazes meeting one another.

"Hans... Don't die!" Assassin snarled as she tightened her grip on her swords.

Not enough Curses...Even with Elpis, Faux Pandora's Curses won't be enough. You need something stronger, more vicious and more potent for Elpis to kill.

....

Should you risk it? You took stock of your remaining magical energy and found it just enough. It was enough to kill even an Immortal driven to a corner. Still, if it doesn't work, you might just die.

Tipping the Scales
​

[] Use your Command Seal, have Assassin use her Noble Phantasm and call upon Orochi's curse. It's a more potent curse for Elpis to dissolve!
[] Don't risk it. Get to Matthias again. Assassin will hold Archer back while you deal with the Enemy Master.
[] You spot something in the distance. Enhancing your vision, you could see a woman with blonde hair and shining armor approach fast.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] You spot something in the distance. Enhancing your vision, you could see a woman with blonde hair and shining armor approach fast.

Something was coming. Something fast and powerful was approaching and you only managed to take notice of it just now. Upon enhancing your vision, you could see a woman with blonde hair and shining approach fast. The wind howled and the two Servants took notice of it as well. One second later, the new presence took to the air and dived downwards, forcing Archer and Assassin to separate.

Archer hissed as a burst of magical energy pushed her and Assassin further away. The Knight that appeared had her sword hidden by what seemed to be a bounded field wrapped around it. Her green eyes glinted with determination as she moved to face Archer. The Servant didn't dare make a move towards the newcomer and instead dashed back and grabbed her Master.

"Assassin! Chase them!" you ordered as the Knight moved first.

Archer made a split second decision and allowed her arm to be chopped off by the invisible blade before she splashed her blood towards the Knight. The Knight dodged but Archer proved faster, utilizing what remained of her strength to keep her distance.

"Wait!" you shouted, "Where's Luvia?! Come back here!"

"Luvia?" the Knight blinked before gritting her teeth and moved to chase after Archer. Assassin didn't bother going after the other Servant and landed by your side. She held you steady while you bled from your wounds.

"It seemed like you were in the middle of something important. Apologies," a familiar voice spoke as you looked up to find Caren Hortensia walking towards you, "No matter, Miss Elise will catch them-"

You shoved Assassin aside and stood up, arrows sticking to your shoulder and back but you didn't care. You grabbed Caren by her jacket and yelled at her, "YOUR INTERFERENCE COST US THE FIGHT!"

The Nun stared at you before raising her eyebrow, "I couldn't stop my companion. I don't have the skills or strength to stop a Ghost Liner."

"WE WERE THERE! WE HAD THE CHANCE AND YOU BLEW IT! ONE MORE! ALL WE NEEDED WAS ONE MORE PU-" you were cut off as you coughed out blood and you lost your strength on your legs.

"You're dying. You need first aid. Had you pushed yourself further than now, you would have truly died," Caren argued as she held you steady.

"Spare me the bullshit. I know my body better than anyone else. Do you realize just how much we went through to corner them to that point?" You growled as you glared at her, "I swear, if Archer escapes I'm going to murder you."

"Hans! She's the Administrator!" Assassin rebuked you harshly.

"I understand your frustration but rest assured that all will be well now. That Knightess became more motivated the moment you mentioned the Edelfelt's name," Caren said as she looked down on you while you bled on the ground, "We can heal you at the Church. Come with me-"

"Shut the fuck up, I'm trying to think," you snapped at her as you tried getting on your knees and focusing.

Reel
​

[] Tell Assassin to go after Archer or at least get information out of Matthias. If they die without saying anything, this whole thing would have been for nothing.
[] Get your phone and contact Sakura. She has to pull out of wherever she was. The mission is a failure. Archer has escaped. She has to get Lancer and Miyu to safety now.
[] Send Assassin to Sakura. The mission is over and have her meet you at the Church. You don't need to be guarded now, at least for a little while. You doubt someone will attack you while the Administrator is around you.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Tell Assassin to go after Archer or at least get information out of Matthias. If they die without saying anything, this whole thing would have been for nothing.

You grunted in pain as you held your shoulder. It hurts but you had to stay conscious. The Nun will stabilize you, you can trust her to do that much. For now, you needed to do damage control otherwise this whole operation would have to be considered a failure.

"Assassin, go after Archer. Hunt them down and get info on Luvia," you ordered as you glanced her way.

"I understand," Assassin replied as she turned away and vanished.

You let out a breath as Caren held your shoulder. She then looked over your wounds and said, "I will be transporting you now. Don't struggle."

"Can't even if I wanted. You better hope she catches those bastards," you growled in a shaky breath as you got up.

"Hope is a foreign concept to me, Mr. Derrinsmith. Though surely you can enlighten me while I guide you into my minivan. A man like yourself is just oozing with hope," Caren snarked back as you bit back another barb. You just had to trust Assassin in this... Hopefully it wasn't too late.

.....
....
...

Assassin dashed through the buildings to chase after her targets. The Knight from before had a huge lead and Archer even more so but Assassin was able to track them as she moved. Archer was maintaining a good distance with her Master on hand but she wouldn't last long. She still had her Immortality, she could easily make life hell for Assassin but...

Chiyome still had Elpis on hand. It seemed that it was taking everything Hans had to keep it in her grasp. She only had this left as her weapon to take down Arche. Still, the Knight wasn't to be written off easily. In her current state, Chiyome wasn't sure if she could face such an opponent right now. She kept moving regardless, dashing across buildings as she slowly closed in on her target.

Assassin was able to identify the direction they were going. Archer was headed straight for Sakura's location. Her Master must have ordered to regroup with Saber. If that happens then this mess will only grow bigger. Assassin moved faster as she essentially soared through the buildings now until she found a good spot to intercept Archer.

The Knight was also gaining on Archer but Assassin got to her first. Shooting out of the darkness, Assassin managed to catch Archer off guard and slam into her at full speed, causing Matthias to be flung to the side and into the street. Archer's back smashed into a fire hydrant as she rolled and got back to her feet, only to see Assassin come to wards her.

Archer drew her sword just as Assassin clashed with her once more.

"You wish to die this much? I'll grant you your wish," Archer hissed before Assassin deflected her blade.

Archer staggered before she moved to slash but Assassin plunged her sword into Archer's chest, triggering Elpis' effect and dissolving every single curse it touched. Archer gasped but endured, her immortality forcing her to cling on to life as she was left kneeling on the ground, her strength drained from her limbs.

The Knight arrived to see what Assassin had done before she walked over to the fallen Master. She then kicked over Matthias as he bled on the ground, burns marking his flesh as he breathed shallowly. Picking him up by his shirt, the Knight began questioning him.

"What have you done to Luvia Edelfelt? Hans Derrinsmith was shouting about it before, now tell me or suffer the consequences," the Knight barked as she grit her teeth.

Matthias for his part looked simply amused, "Consequences mean nothing to a dying man. Derrinsmith knows this well which explains his irresponsible handling of his life. But still, is this what this is all about?"

"Our last report came from Sakura Matou. Luvia stayed behind the previous night to allow Matou to escape. We want information now," Assassin said as she held a kunai in hand.

"A professional never speaks. At least that would be how it would go normally. Heh, I could take the knowledge I have to my grave if it causes you people more anguish," Matthias sneered as he looked back to the Knight, "But if you must know, I do have the information... In fact, I'll dispense it now. Edelfelt was taken by another."

Chiyome tensed at that before hissing, "Who?"

"A masked Servant riding a winged Steed. We never had Edelfelt in the first place," Matthias said as he chuckled to himself before he was tossed to the ground.

The Knight then faced Assassin, "Do you know who could that be?"

"By process of elimination, I figure it's Rider," Assassin said as she walked over to Matthias and drew her sword from her back. She looked down on the Mercenary before she plunged her blade through his chest, blood splattering on the floor.

From the side, Archer let out a sigh, "I see. So that's how far I can go. It was an admirable run. Good job, Assassin."

"You lost. So goes the nature of this battle," Assassin replied as she pulled her sword out of the man's chest.

"True. But this was... It's only beginning," Archer giggled as she smiled, "From one Priestess to another, you hope that when the time comes, may the Gods answer your call. For Saber surely wouldn't."

Archer vanished as her body shattered into golden light.

Archer has retired from the War.

As soon as Archer died a pulse was felt throughout the city. Assassin felt herself raising her sword while the Knight tightened her hands on her invisible weapon. Something had been stimulated.

.....
....
...

Back at the apartments, Ayumi looked out into the distance in wonder. Her eyes glimmering as a Servant fell in battle tonight before finally... A smile curled upon her lips. Another has come to test the Hero of this Story and it would be no other than the Blackened Sun.

.....
....
...

Saber smashed Lancer away with his sword before pausing, looking up as he felt a disturbance. Lancer caught her breath and turned to look to the sky as well. Something just woke up in the distance... Saber lowered his blade before slinging it behind his back and turning away from his foe. Lancer's eyes widened as she snarled, "We're not done here yet!"

"We are. Something troublesome has come to interfere. I'd advise you to take your Master to safety as I would do to mine. Stubborn and battle crazy woman she is," Saber said as he retreated. Lancer tried to attack but paused when Sakura spoke to her mind.

"Lancer, we have to go and regroup. Hans should be finished now and Miyu says that something bad is happening."

Lancer clicked her tongue before turning away. She had to make sure Sakura was safe first.

.....
....
...

You were sitting in the Nun's minivan when you felt it. A distant feeling of dread, like a lump of bricks just fell on your stomach. You shouldn't be surprised but the feeling still overwhelmed you. You were still injured and bleeding, Caren had managed to patch you up as best she could with what supplies she had in her vehicle. The arrows were gone and your wounds were partially sealed, you would need further aid within the Church if you wished to survive the morning.

But still...

"This war is just getting more and more interesting," Caren said as she drove down the highway. You scoffed at the thought as you closed your eyes. That was the last thing you needed but... With each Servant that falls, a Blackened would emerge.

What kind was only a matter of luck...

However just as he was thinking that, a shadow fell over the minivan. Caren hit the brakes and spun the wheel before shifting gears to keep the van moving. You were thrown around in the back seat when you turned to see a monstrous creature land on where the minivan had been heading. Hitting the gas, Caren drove ahead as the monster's roar was heard behind you.

Was that... A Sphinx?!

"Hold on," Caren ordered you as she dodged the monster's swipe by making the minivan swerve. The monster smashed into an incoming truck and was run over before Caren stopped the minivan on the highway. She unlocked her door and stepped out of the vehicle.

"Hey, where are you going!?" you yelled at her as she rolled up her sleeves, revealing crimson marks on her pale skin.

"Doing my job," Caren declared as she activated a Command Spell, "By our Temporary Contract, come forth and protect me!"

A burst of crimson light erupted just as the Sphinx pounced towards the Nun. However from the light emerged a woman with shining armor and blonde hair. She stomped on the ground and plunged the sword she held now bathed in golden light straight into the monster's neck. The creature howled before the Knight tore her sword out of it as the creature crumbled into black mud.

"Tell me, are you two okay?" the Knight asked as she faced you and Caren.

You got out of the car and collapsed on the ground. You raised your head as the Knight walked over to help you up by offering a hand.

Next Phase
​

[] "What the hell is going on here? Do you know? Where'd this thing come from?"
[] "First thing's first... I never heard of an Extra Servant in this War though you do look like Jeanne D'arc. Tell me, who are you?"
[] "We're fine. But I have to focus now. I have to contact Assassin. Have you seen her?"

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] "We're fine. But I have to focus now. I have to contact Assassin. Have you seen her?"

You ignored her hand and stood up on your own, "We're fine. But I have to focus now. I have to contact Assassin. Have you seen her?"

The Knight blinked before composing herself, "She was with me before I was called here. She was the one who slew Archer's Master. Technically, that doesn't count as me interfering too much."

Caren raised an eyebrow as she crossed her arms, "I suppose not."

"What about Luvia then? Was there any information?" you asked the Knight with a frown.

"The man simply said that... He was never in custody of Luvia. A Servant retrieved her during the night she stayed to protect Sakura. Assassin believed that by process of elimination, Rider could be involved," the blonde woman said as she dismissed her armor and was now wearing a crisp black suit.

Rider? Then that means... Ophelia. Ophelia took Luvia that night? You didn't like the sound of that but that gives you a lead at the very least. You'll know who to look for however the appearance of these Phantasmal Beasts didn't spell a good future for everyone in this War. Giving Caren a glance, she may stop the War altogether in order to handle the newest Blackened to arise.

"I see," you breathed as you held your head. You tried contacting Assassin through your connection but felt that you lacked the strength to even focus that much. You fell down your knees again, causing the Knight to grab you in alarm. You were losing blood and strength faster than you anticipated.

The edges of your vision began to darken.

You blacked out.

.....
....
...

A dream came to you but it was unlike any other.

A girl danced at the top of a building as the city was swallowed by blue fire.

Her eyes glimmered and she held up a finger between her lips.

.....
....
...

"Stop!" you yelled as you held out your hand.

You had sat up from your bed, causing your blanket to fall and revealed the amount of bandages on your body. You were nearly wrapped up all over, giving no place to skin to be visible. You winced from the sections where you had been struck the previous night while your organs all felt like they were being stabbed by daggers.

Your heart was beating fast while sweat ran down your cheek. You endured the pain and turned to the side to find a glass of water. You picked it up and drank to moisten your dry throat. Setting it down, you wiped your lips as you let out a shaky breath. You've been healed, meaning there was only one place you could be right now.

The door opened and Chiyome walked in casual clothes, her eyes staring for a brief moment before closing in on you.

"Are you okay? I heard you scream," Assassin asked as she immediately went to your side.

"I'm fine. Nothing I can't live with. This the church?" you asked for confirmation.

"It is. The Administrator healed you as best she could. Better than what normal physicians would have so you have her to thank for your condition. According to her, you should be fine by the evening. It's currently morning," Assassin said as she looked at you with a worried expression.

You met her gaze and gave her a reassuring smile, "I see. I'm glad you made it out okay last night."

"This is no time to be worrying about me. You're in a worse state than I am! You took two arrows and a sword stab through your body. You may be hardy but there's a limit. You're just human, Hans!" Chiyome scolded you as she clenched her fist, "We may have beaten Archer but that's nothing if the price is you being injured some more!"

She... Didn't really have to worry that much. You didn't have much to live either way so a few more injuries should be fine. Well, you did have one more War to fight if you won here though if you lost again... Okay, maybe having another bad injury would be real bad in the future.

"Sorry," was all you could say under her words.

"We have much to discuss and if you two are done, I suggest you two come on up." A voice came from the door, making you tense up. Caren had her arms crossed as she leaned against the doorframe. What a joy, that woman was...

She then walked away without so much as a goodbye. Well, you didn't prefer her presence being so close either way. You had Assassin wait out your door as you got changed. There was some spare clothes laid out for you so you decided to take those. You then stepped out of your room with Chiyome dutifully waiting for you by the door. The two of you then moved out from beneath the church and came up behind the altar.

The Church's doors were closed today so there weren't any people coming in. You and Assassin stepped out into a snowy gazebo near the walls of the Church's compound. The Knight from last night was wearing a white blouse and blue skirt, a more casual outfit compared to last night while Caren poured herself some tea.

You managed to get close and take your seat while Assassin stood behind you.

"Well, it's good to see that you're not one to stay in bed. How's your body?" Caren asked as she raised an eyebrow.

"Fine. Assassin said that I should be okay by the evening?" you wondered with a frown.

"The pain will subside but the injuries will take longer to heal. Still, it shouldn't impede you in your mission. I figured you would prefer it that way," Caren said as she sipped her tea.

Well that's considerate... Given everything.

Clearing her throat, the Knight then spoke up, "In any case, I would like to take this chance to formally introduce myself. Hello, my name is Artoria Pendragon, former King of Camelot and Part Time English Instructor."

You blinked and stared at her. You then turned to Assassin as she spoke, "She feels like a Servant and certainly has the skills to back it up."

"Ghost Liner. A Servant not bound by the Holy Grail?" you frowned as you sat up straight, "Keeping a Servant well after a War takes much maintenance and power, who exactly-"

"Tohsaka," Artoria cut you off.

You blanched.

Oh.

That.

Oh...

"Oh..." you managed to breathe as you stared at her, "Then... You're a Familiar of a Grand. Zeltrech's Apprentice. But why?"

"Sakura Matou. She's my Master's Sister. I was sent here to check up on Sakura and see how she was doing. However my presence couldn't be allowed to stay without being bound to the Administrator to preserve the balance of the War. So for now, I'm under a temporary contract with Miss Hortensia," Artoria explained as she gestured to the Nun.

Assassin gave her a sad look, "I'm so sorry for your misfortune."

"What is that supposed to mean?" Caren questioned from the side.

You then cut between them and spoke, "Okay, I won't ask how or why but let's get to the bottom of this. You all had something to say to me?"

"Namely the status of the Grail," Caren said as she crossed her arms, "Assassin took to investigating Matou's last whereabouts. According to your Servant, Matou had the Grail with her."

"I went to where Lancer should be fighting Saber but when I arrived there was no one there. Not Sakura and not even Miyu. There was no sign of Saber but there were signs of fighting," Assassin reported as she rubbed her shoulder, "They just upped and vanished."

"Which means that not only Luvia is missing but Sakura has too. Though she doesn't strike me as the type to take advantage of your trust and steal the Grail," Artoria chimed in as she sipped her tea.

"That's more of a 'me' tactic but I get your point. We were supposed to regroup back at our hideout or push to rescue Luvia if we could. But given the circumstances, I'm just as lost as you are," you replied as you pinched the bridge of your nose.

"Well if that's the case then they should be revealing themselves soon. One call from me and they would have to answer... Especially with the Phantasmal Beasts out and about, I have half of my mind canceling the War for now to focus on the source of those creatures," Caren said as she glanced your way.

"Though you haven't. Why?" Assassin questioned her with a narrowed look.

"Because those creatures haven't harmed anyone outside of the participants. The public has yet to be involved and there had been no witnesses as to their existence... Yet," Caren said as she sighed.

"Though it would be wiser if you made preventive measures rather than waiting," Artoria observed as she glanced at the Nun.

"I already am. Why else would I form a temporary contract with you?" Caren asked with a raised eyebrow. She then continued, "The War's integrity must be kept intact as much as possible. This inconvenience is something the Administrators must contend with rather than troubling the Masters when they're already busy killing each other."

"How considerate of you," you sarcastically stated.

"I am a woman of the cloth. It's only natural," Caren replied.

Artoria grimaced before turning to you, "Well, what will be your plan, Mr. Derrinsmith? I aim to search for Sakura and Luvia. Surely I can have confidence that you have the same idea?"

There... Were a few places you wanted to check.

Vanishing
​

[] You want to return to the hideout. That's one of the places you know Sakura and Miyu would be. If anything, Ayumi should still be there. You have to check there.
[] You need to head to the Amusement Park and investigate that House of Mirrors. If the Phantasmal Beasts are truly the work of a Blackened then there should be clues there.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] You want to return to the hideout. That's one of the places you know Sakura and Miyu would be. If anything, Ayumi should still be there. You have to check there.

"I have a hideout to return to. Hopefully my allies will be there but if not then I'll simply return here," you replied as you leaned back on your seat.

"You seem awfully casual about it. Do you expect no one being there waiting for you?" Caren asked as she raised an eyebrow.

"Not sure. But I don't have high hopes," You answered as you got up your feet, "I should be going now. There's not much time to waste."

"Are you sure? The pain of your wounds shouldn't be healed just yet," Artoria pointed out with a frown.

You gave her a look ad shook your head, "I'll be fine. There's no need for you to be concerned. I'll send a message if I found anything. Miss Administrator knows where to call me."

"Wait," Caren said as she stood up from her seat and walked towards you, "You almost forgot something."

You raised an eyebrow as she revealed the Command Seals on her arms, only to have one of them glow bright. The back of your hand began to burn hot, scalding even before you looked down to see a new Seal be inscribed upon it. You blinked before giving her a strange look.

"It's your reward for finding and killing the serial murderer of the war. We wont have to worry about the Undead now but we have bigger problems. See to it you use that thing well," Caren said as she crossed her arms, "Still, are you certain you need to go now?"

"Yes. It's just how I am," you answered as you met her gaze.

"Your funeral," Caren sighed as she shrugged.

You figured she would say that but you decided to let it slide. Chiyome bowed politely towards them before following after you. You had much to think about from the revelation that Luvia wasn't with Matthias to the disappearance of both Miyu and Sakura. Your body was still in the middle of healing but you couldn't afford to be idle. You could send Assassin out on her own but with the appearance of the Phantasmal Beasts, you're uncertain if that would be wise.

Better to have her by your side instead of wasting a Seal.

You knew what you had to do now, it was probably for the best that you made the most of it.

"Hans, don't push yourself," Assassin warned you as she stood by your side.

You glanced at her and smiled, "Yeah, I know."

.....
....
...

You arrived at the hideout Luvia had been using. Standing in the elevator, you ascended through a dozen of floors until you reached your destination. Some lingering wards erected by Luvia and Sakura maintained but your presence still registered among those that could go through. Assassin had gone into stealth while you walked ahead.

There were no signs of anyone going through the hall you just passed. It's almost untouched even. You kept walking until you arrived at the hideout's door. You knocked first and listened for anyone to come towards the door and open it.

"Hello? Is there anyone inside? Ayumi? Sakura? Miyu?" you called as you stood back.

You waited for a good ten seconds before you opened it. The door wasn't even locked for some reason, making you immediately frown in response. You stepped in and were immediately hit by a feeling of dread settling right on your shoulders. You tried not to buckle from it as you held on the walls for support.

The feeling however vanished as quickly as it came, making you wonder if it was just your imagination.

"What the hell?" you growled as you kept moving.

The living room was cleaned up and the dinner table was spotless. There weren't any dishes in the sink and the while place seemed very clean. There was no signs of life either, not Miyu, not Sakura and definitely not Ayumi. You gave it another look before you turned to see that the doors were shut as well.

"Hans, you might want to see this," Assassin said as she dismissed her cloaking to stand by the bathroom door. You walked on over and peered inside.

The bathroom was pristine save for a couple of things. The mirror was shattered, cracked on every surface as if something beat on it over and over. Judging by the splashes of blood on it, someone punched it. The blood was dry but couldn't be more than a day old. So whoever this belonged to must have vacated recently.

Process of elimination points at Ayumi but how she could have left this place without tripping the wards was unknown to you. But if it was Manaka then you wouldn't even be surprised.

"Ayumi's gone too but we could probably track her down with her blood," you said as you inspected the shards of glass at the sink, "Only four Servants left, Chiyome. Things are getting dicey."

"Who do you plan on looking for first?" Assassin asked you from the side.

"Well, that's just the thing. I don't know if it's even safe to look for them. If Ophelia has Luvia then the former would no doubt try and convince the latter to become allies. If that happens then Sakura could be easily convinced, allowing them to take Miyu with no resistance... I can assume that Ophelia probably said something which keeps the Lancer faction from contacting me outright," you guessed as you rubbed your chin.

"But there shouldn't be a reason for them to ally with her... Especially against us, right?" Assassin pointed out as she crossed her arms.

"That's the thing. I did lie to them about what I needed the Grails for. I told them it's for research, to look for the means to accomplish my goals... You should be aware by now, Assassin. This isn't the final War I intend to wage," you explained as you leaned against the wall, "Matou and Edelfelt have the explicit goal of preventing these subcategory Grail Wars and dismantling them, what would they think if they found out from Ophelia that I plan on waging another?"

"It'll be another reason to stop you then," Chiyome noted with a grimace.

"And then there's Ayumi going missing. With a new Blackened at large out there, I would assume she would go to meet it. Well, not specifically her but Manaka could be on the reins again. Though that would mean that she was willing to break her promise of returning on Christmas Eve," you added, "We don't know if Manaka or Ayumi is the one in control of their body and we don't know if they're hostile or not. It could be safe to assume that the war's on its way to becoming a four way brawl."

"Then, would it be wiser to have Caren cancel the war and deal with the Blackened first? That would be the best step," Assassin suggested as she looked your way, "That way, you can take stock of everyone's mood during a ceasefire."

"I don't know if that'll hold... And I doubt Minerva would miss the opportunity to kill me, even with the ceasefire going on," you replied with a frown, "But... That is a fourth option."

The Missing
​

[] Go find Sakura and the others. It'll be best if you confronted them now, just don't expect that they'll have a warm welcome with Ophelia behind them.
[] Go track down Ayumi with her blood. You need to make sure if she's being possessed or not. She's the only one who could probably control the Blackened and if Manaka is on the wheel, maybe you can yell at her or something.
[] Go back to Caren and have her order a ceasefire. Dealing with the Blackened comes first and under the rules of the war, a ceasefire could be established if the integrity of the war is at risk. This was one way to look at things.
[] Go hunt Minerva. You want to kill her before she kills you so you might as well get this fucking over with. That way, only the reasonable Masters will be left for you to deal with.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Go track down Ayumi with her blood. You need to make sure if she's being possessed or not. She's the only one who could probably control the Blackened and if Manaka is on the wheel, maybe you can yell at her or something.

"We'll have to go search for Ayumi. Leaving her out there on her own gives me more worry than checking on the others. At the very least Miyu is safe for now but we'll have to take her back at a later date," You decided as you glanced at the blood that had dried on the mirror's surface. You walked of it and ran your thumb over them.

You then etched a rune upon them and stepped back, having a wolf made out of magical energy manifest before you. It took one sniff of the blood on the mirror before rushing out and darting across the living room. It then jumped off the window, leaving a trail to follow as you watched it go. You held your stomach wound and felt it sting.

If this turns messy, then you'll be in for a bad time. Still, you have to check. You didn't have much time to idle about, especially when you have to be wary of your own allies. You looked down at your hand at your three Command Seals. You have an advantage over most Masters now, you can't afford to mess this up.

"We'll leave a message for the others if they return here. For now, we have to hurry," you told Assassin as you glanced at her.

"Understood," your Servant replied as the two of you left.

.....
....
...

Surprisingly enough, you didn't end up at the amusement park where the House of Mirrors was located. You were instead led by the tracking rune towards the underground reservoir of the City. You and Assassin knew this place well, it was the location of the battle that caused everything to crumble for you. It was also where Manaka had her last stand as your ally.

To think she would come back here, it was pretty surprising. No, there's still the chance that she wasn't fully back yet and that Ayumi was still in control. If that was the case then what was she doing here? Could there be another reason? Did you leave something important here? You kept walking through the tunnel until the tracking rune dissipated.

"Get ready," you warned your Servant as the two of you stepped out of the tunnel. You both came upon the main section and noticed the flowing water of the city's waterways. The familiar you sent out vanished around here so you were left wondering what could have made it disappear.

You looked around and leaned against the rails to look down one of the churning pools of water being purified before you noticed something under the water. You immediately stepped back in alarm, causing Assassin to speak in your head in concern.

"What's wrong?"

"I thought I saw something under the water," you murmured with a frown. Almost as if you saw the reflection of something...

Looking again there was nothing. The water was clear enough that you could see the dark bottom before you moved along. You then decided to speak up and call for Ayumi.

"Hello? Ayumi? Can you hear me, it's Hans. Call out if you can hear me!" you called, your voice traveling through the reservoir as you stood along the catwalk.

The sound of water flowing continued to rush all around you before you heard footsteps. You looked ahead to find Ayumi standing before you with an out of breath look on her face. Her eyes widened upon seeing you before forcing her legs to move towards you. She ran as she cried out in alarm.

"Run! He's coming!" Ayumi yelled as the pathway behind her exploded. The catwalk shuddered as she was blown towards you, causing you to catch her.

You looked to see a man walk towards you. A tall man with a rather muscular frame emerged from the flames. A white cape covered in slick black mud flowed behind him as his skin had noticeable signs of being Blackened. His golden eyes settled upon you for a split second before looking straight towards Ayumi.

He then lowered the staff he had in his hand before raising his free one. It was as if he was asking Ayumi to come with him.

Ayumi simply held on tight to you and looked away. The Blackened narrowed his gaze before beams of light thundered from behind him to strike you and Ayumi. Assassin reacted fast and smashed the catwalk you were on, causing you three to fall before she grabbed you and Ayumi to jump higher. The Blackened looked down and fell into the pool of water below while Assassin dragged you to the next platform.

You kept a tight hold on Ayumi before you looked down at the Servant on the water, seeing how he caught himself on a floating piece of gold platform. Beams of light gathered behind him and fired, forcing you to pull Ayumi to her feet as the ceiling was carved open.

"Thank you, Hans," Ayumi said as her blue eyes met yours.

"We have to go!" you yelled, ignoring the coldness of her hands, "Assassin!"

The three of you began running as you jumped down to the bottom of the reservoir. Assassin caught Ayumi while you used reinforcement to break your fall. You caught your breath but felt the sting of your wounds pulse through your body. You stumbled but you managed to catch yourself just as you turned to see light headed your way.

"Aegis!" you snapped as your golden shield caught the blast.

It was strong enough to easily shatter your shield, sending you flying back and forcing Assassin to stop. You got up as Chiyome set down Ayumi and threw an explosive kunai at the ceiling. It exploded and caused a cave in which cut off the entrance to the reservoir.

"Hans, get up! What do we do?" Assassin snapped at you.

Subterranean Sun
​

[] Make an escape. Whatever happens, you're not to confront that Blackened Servant. It's powerful, probably stronger than any individual Servant in this War so far! You have to leave and make a plan!
[] You'll call for help. You and Assassin will hold down your ground while you contact Caren. This is their purview, they should get here and deal with this thing!
[] Write in...