Fate/Blackened Sugar

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] 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!

This makes the second time you're running in this goddamned sewer! You kept running as you reinforced your leg, noticing how the rubble behind you was being pummeled. Assassin grit her teeth as she glanced at you before you understood what she wanted. She wanted to buy you time but you weren't having it. That thing was stronger than the previous Blackened!

Assassin heeded your intentions and kept carrying Ayumi as the three of you managed to leave the tunnel. Now here comes the hard part, actually getting as far as possible from that thing. What was your next move? The Blackened could easily catch up to you if he wanted to, thus making a confrontation impossible to avoid. How do you lure him away? Can you even do that?

An explosion burst at the distance, lighting up the evening sky.

"Shit," you breathed as you looked up to the Blackened rise up from under the reservoir. The man was now riding a golden boat hovering over the skies. One of its cannons turned towards your group before you and Assassin split up.

A beam fired a furious lance of light, driving itself through the buildings and compounds in its way and setting all alight. Explosions followed as the earth itself was sundered by that singular shot. Golden eyes searched but you managed to hide among the wreckage while keeping a low profile alongside your Servant and Ayumi.

You tried to calm yourself as a follow up shot didn't come.

"Well... That's a big guy," you murmured as you studied the boat from afar. Though calling it a boat would be understating the grand appearance of the golden ship which embodied the might of the sun itself, "Egyptian. Must be Mesektet then... Though are we seriously fighting Ra?"

"Ramses II... Meryamen... Foster Brother to the Prophet Moses..." Ayumi breathed as she held on to Assassin, "His true name is Ozymandias and he is the fourth Servant called forth by the Beast."

You turned to face her and frowned, "How do you know that?"

"I... Just do. The information is in my head but I couldn't parse it well. In any case, it's a powerful Servant that would require the strength of others to defeat. If he becomes aggressive, he would single handedly slaughter the other Servants in this War," Ayumi warned you as she held her head as it stung in pain.

"What do we do?" you asked with a concerned look at her.

"He's not fully hostile yet. Like a robot that was just programmed to standby. If we leave, he would most likely return to where he came from for now until some conditions are met. Still, I don't know what those conditions are," Ayumi said as she met your gaze, "Confronting him now will only get us killed."

"If he truly were on standby, why was he trying to get you to come with him?" Assassin asked in a sharp tone.

"I... I don't know myself. The last thing I remember was being alone in the apartment. And then in the next moment I was there, looking at him... Hans, there's something going on under the city. A huge swell of magical energy," Ayumi began saying as she held herself, "Almost like a cauldron."

"That... Can't be good," you murmured before you looked behind you, "Either way, we can probably sneak away. I'll try and lure him away with some familiars while we go in the other direction."

"Got it," Assassin said as she picked up Ayumi, leaving you to use the stones nearby and imbuing them with magical energy. You molded and utilized the skills you actually learned from the Luctworth to construct a decent golem.

Etching a Rune upon it, it activated before you slapped it on the back on its back while you turned away. The golem then marched on, emitting large amounts of Magical Energy and no doubt catching the attention of the Blackened. You managed to catch up with Assassin as she concealed her presence while another beam of light fired from the golden boat.

The golem was vaporized where it was running. Now's your chance-!

BANG

A beam of light went straight for your group once more, forcing Assassin to throw Ayumi at you as she summoned a large black snake. You used your body to catch Ayumi before the black serpent took the brunt of the golden light and exploding. Assassin was sent flying back while you and Ayumi rolled on the ground.

You looked up to see the golden boat drifting towards you, its cannons raised. The barrels began to light up and begin to fire, only for a streak of light to tear through the sky. You managed to see a white comet fly towards the golden boat as one of its large cannons was raised in response. The Blackened fired, lighting up the sky as golden light moved to clash against the White Comet.

They clashed with the White Comet blasting through the light released by the golden boat. The Blackened immediately switched tactics and maneuvered the boat out of the Comet's path and allowed it to merely graze it. Ozymandias' eyes narrowed as his precious ship had been damaged but it was preferable to a severe damage being dealt to him.

The Blackened spared one last glance at your group... And then at Ayumi before the boat's thrusters activated and sped away. Such a destructive Noble Phantasm released in one go and it was enough to catch even that Blackened off guard. The White Comet slowed down and burst into white feathers, revealing a masked rider wearing black mantle.

"Getting yourself into these sort of trouble, that's just typical of you," a woman's voice said as you turned.

"Nice to see you too, Ophelia," you replied as you kept your hand protectively over Ayumi.

Ophelia noticed your movements before closing her eye and shaking her head, "You should stayed imprisoned until the War was wrapped up."

"You know I can't do that," you replied as you frowned.

"Fine. Then tell me this, what did that girl offer you in return for your cooperation?" Ophelia asked as she had you and your group surrounded between her and her Servant riding on what could only be Pegasus. She continued as she swept her hand before her, "You know that she's the one controlling those Blackened..."

"She's not who you think she is. She's just caught up in all of this. I was offered nothing so I'd appreciate it if you just let us go, Ophelia," you told her as you narrowed your gaze.

"I think the time for niceties is over, Hans. This time, I'll have to eliminate that girl alongside your Servant," Ophelia declared as you pulled something from your back.

Ophelia moved and took off her eyepatch.

You drew your handgun behind your back and took aim. Your finger hovered over the trigger while Ophelia's Mystic Eye glimmered as she stared you down.

"Assassin!" you snapped as your Servant reacted.

"I won't let you!" Ophelia's eye shined bright and Rider began to move. You imbued the gun with magical energy and watched it glow as you aimed it downwards. Ophelia's eyes widened as the gun burst in your hand, the light from it erupting and half blinding you but Ophelia's ability reduced the explosive force of it.

Ophelia was forced to close her eyes on instinct as Assassin knocked Ayumi to the ground while she turned to face Rider flying down on Pegasus. Chiyome summoned a black serpent from the ground to catch Pegasus but Rider swung his sickle and cut through the jaws of the giant snake. Assassin used this time to throw up two pellets in the air and had them explode into brilliant flashes.

Light erupted and robbed Rider of his sight for a split second only to block as Assassin clashed against him. Rider was forced to carry Assassin with him as they both shot to the air.

Ayumi gasped as she watched Assassin fight against Rider while on the winged steed. Behind her, Hans' hand was burned badly while Ophelia tried to regain her vision.

"You're not making this easy, Hans... Are you really willing to risk this city for your Wish?" Ophelia growled as she raised her gaze, "Look at you, can you really fight another War after this?"

"I'm not dead yet aren't I?" you smiled as you clenched your fist and swung it up, raising three Aegis shields, "I'll keep fighting till I can't anymore."

"Those Grails of yours, that's enough magical Energy on hand to match the Fuyuki Greater Grail... If not more. If you do succeed in this War, what sort of War are you planning to wage after it? How much destruction? How much bloodshed? Do you plan on sacrificing everything to achieve your goal?" Ophelia questioned as she grit her teeth.

"Well isn't that something? You always complained that I never acted like a proper Mage. Well look at me now, Ophelia... Isn't that how an actual Mage would be?" you replied as you stood before her.

"This isn't the time for jokes, Hans," Ophelia intoned as she got ready.

You chuckled and shook your head, "I know. It's just funny how a Magus like yourself would preach about the collateral damage of what I'll do in the future. And you come from a prestigious family too, it's a miracle you have the ability to empathize with others much less the faceless masses in a War."

"You didn't answer the question, Hans. The Next War will be of your own making. It won't be like the others you've fought in where they're established by others. The deaths of those caught in it will be on you... And what destruction will follow will also be on you," Ophelia said as she straightened her back. She then glanced at the girl by your side, "That's all but guaranteed by the company you keep."

She's not backing down... Not in her mission to eliminate your Servant and to neutralize Ayumi. She's serious...

Brilliant Lights
​

[] "I guess there's little need for words then? Sorry it had to be this way... But I'll give you the chance to stand down. This is your last warning, surrender now and I'll let you go."
[] "Then may I propose a counter offer then? How about you join me instead? That way, you can have a hand reducing the damage in the next War. How does the name Crypters sound as faction for us?"
[] "I'd love to explain but your expression tells me that you're ready to throw down. I'll humor you and see how far you can get with me. I won't kill you though, I figured I'd return the favor for your mercy all those times before."
[] Write in...

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] "I'd love to explain but your expression tells me that you're ready to throw down. I'll humor you and see how far you can get with me. I won't kill you though, I figured I'd return the favor for your mercy all those times before."

There was no going around it then. Fighting Ophelia had to come sooner or later but you had no choice now. You straightened your back as you raised your hand to the side, your golden shields drifting before you as you faced her. Ophelia was just as wary as you were with her.

Even with her Mystic Eye, she had to see which possibility she had to cull to succeed in her whatever move she'll do. At the most, she'll try to corner you into making one move which she could easily predict and cull.

You had the advantage of being unpredictable and pragmatic. Out of ten moves you can make, she can only cull one.

"I'd love to explain but your expression tells me that you're ready to throw down. I'll humor you and see how far you can get with me," you told her as you met her gaze, "I won't kill you though, I figured I'd return the favor for your mercy all those times before."

"That would be your undoing," Ophelia said as she held out her hand and gathered broken glass to form a javelin.

"And what? Have the fucking Wodime come down on me? I'm a cockroach that refuses to die but even I'll die from that guy!" you barked as you held up your hand and felt your circuits flare up.

Ophelia threw her glass javelin as you watched it tear through the air. You caught it with one of your Aegis shields as Ophelia dashed to the side and began evoking Spirits to aid her. Silvery familiars danced around her as you palmed the ground with your wounded hand, wiping your blood on the pavement.

Black skeletal hands clapped shut upon the silvery familiars but Ophelia used her eye to diminish the effect of your move.

"Ayumi! Get away from here! Find a safe place to hide! I'll handle her!" you ordered as you tried calling forth familiars to do battle with Ophelia. You called forth two wolves of magical energy while Ophelia answered with more silver spirits.

"I can't just run and do nothing! I... I can do something too!" Ayumi argued as you sent the wolves out while detonating the ground between the two sides. Light appeared on the other side and your wolves were culled by Ophelia's Mystic Eye.

"Ansuz!" you snapped and etched a rune upon the gas tank behind Ophelia.

She turned, giving you the chance to conjure up crystal swords behind you. Etching runes upon them, they were reinforced just as the gas tank exploded, forcing Ophelia to dive out of the way. She rolled and weaved a barrier which caught your projectiles, only to summon silver birds to dive towards you.

You answered by forming a wall of fire before you while calling forth black crows laced with magical energy. Ophelia opened the wall up with her Mystic Eye while your familiars all smashed into one another. Black and white feathers littered their before you burned them all away and Ophelia took to the air, creating a makeshift sword from the rubble and debris around her.

Cursing under your breath, you grabbed Ayumi and the two of you dived to evade her attack. You rolled on the ground and used one Aegis shield to catch a projectile headed your way. Aegis shattered as you miscalculated the power behind the projectile, forcing you to whip up your last two remaining shields to weather the blows Ophelia sent your way.

She wasn't a genius for nothing...

You can't use Faux Pandora here, you didn't want to hurt her. Staying on the defensive will only get you cornered however. You had to think fast!

However just as you weathered the storm of projectiles, something came up on your side. Ophelia was riding what seemed to be a horse made out of pure magical energy. She then held her hand towards you and chanted something, smashing open your shields and blasting you off your feet straight into a wall.

Coughing out blood, you grit your teeth as you looked up at her as she rushed towards you.

"Assassin!" you snapped as Ophelia's eyes widened, seeing the ground beneath you split as a black serpent opened its maw around you. You braced yourself and reinforced your body as the jaws shut around you.

You found yourself in the darkness, the stench of the serpent's mouth filling your lungs before you were spat out into the ground. Ophelia used her eye to rollback the existence of the serpent. You got away from her but here she was again! You had to knock her off that goddamned horse somehow!

"Fuck it," you growled as you charged straight for her.

Ophelia blinked but rode her horse regardless, leaning forward as you felt your magic circuits light up.

"AEGIS!" you roared as your shield appeared upon your arm and you slammed it against Ophelia's horse.

"HANS!!!" Ophelia snapped at you.

"What's the matter, do it!" you dared her as you grit your teeth, feeling your wounds open up again.

Ophelia hesitated so you did what she didn't expect. You canceled Aegis upon adjusting your body, letting the horse pass you while you grabbed hold of her arm. You then slammed her into the ground where she crashed hard without managing to reinforce her body. You moved and knelt over her, pinning her left hand with your knee while you kept her right hand secured under your own.

"I win," you growled as you looked down on her as she gave you a pained look.

"Not yet," Ophelia hissed as her right hand shined crimson, "RIDER!"

A masked man burst from a flash of red, his gaze immediately falling upon you. His foot managed to swing fast enough for you to be unable to dodge it, striking you right on your ribs and sending you sliding to the side. You smashed into a light pole, leaving you coughing out blood as you tried getting up.

"That was a close one. That's unlike you, Ophelia," Rider noted as he turned to his Master.

You smiled, "Wow Rider, looks like my adorable Assassin gave you some trouble."

"She won't be here to save you," Rider coldly stated as he turned your way.

"Hans... Do you have a death wish?" Ophelia asked as she held her side. The impact of her fall still made her stand unsteadily.

"Are you okay? I'm close by, just stall them and I can strike from behind," Assassin told you through your connection, "Don't do anything crazy!"

A little bit too late for that now, huh? You leaned against the light post and kept your eyes on Ophelia and her Servant. If she was really trying to kill you, she would have many chances. But even then, she was trying to hold back, going as far to use a Command Seal for you. You couldn't help but wonder just how important were you to her boyfriend's little pet project.

Still, you shouldn't expect less from her.

She was a prodigy after all.

"Death wish? Oh no. Maybe you do," you replied as you met her gaze, "That was a close shave there, you could have ended dead."

"But you said you wouldn't," Ophelia reminded you with a frown.

"Well I lied," you said with a smile.

"Bastard," Rider growled under his breath.

"And Rider here wouldn't even know if I was quick enough. Good thinking on that Command Seal or you would have died like the failure that you are," you continued as you looked straight at Ophelia, watching her wince at her words, "This is a War, Ophelia. I'm doing you a service. Step aside or you'll really get killed next time. This place isn't somewhere a spoiled, noble, honor's student should be at."

"You..." Ophelia breathed as she grit her teeth.

"You're a hypocrite, Ophelia. You're doing this to stop me from making another Grail War? Then why are you here wielding a Servant? Don't make me laugh by telling me that you changed your mind, the only thing you care about is pleasing your betters. That's why you're stuck in the cage you're in, bound to the ties of family and expectation... And as soon as Wodime extended his hand towards you, you came running like a dog-" you ranted as Rider moved towards you.

It was a split second.

The next thing you knew was that you were on the ground.

Rider's sandal was on your chest, pressing on your broken ribs. Come on, Ophelia! Waste a Seal now!

"No more words from you, you snake," Rider coldly declared as he held his scythe.

Ophelia held out her hand and crimson light erupted from the back of her hand, "Rider sto-"

STAB

A spike made out of glass pierced Ophelia's side from the back. You and Rider stared at her wide eyed as you all looked at the culprit. Ayumi stood not too far away behind a corner with her hand held out, her eyes glowing blue with power for a moment. The smile she had on her lips was soon replaced by a look of confusion and shock.

Rider vanished above you and caught Ophelia before she fell. Her wound didn't hit any vital areas but the shock from the pain had nearly made her faint. You got up and looked at Ayumi as she stared back at you, fear filling her expression before she turned and ran away.

"Ophelia! Ophelia hang in there! We'll retreat back to Luvia for now!" Rider yelled as his Master struggled to remain conscious.

"Hans, I don't know what happened but I'm here. I can take Rider's head," Assassin whispered from the shadows.

False Slumber
​

[] Abort the Assassination. Chase after Ayumi before she vanishes again.
[] Let Assassin strike now while Rider was distracted. He won't see her coming and that'll be one Servant down.
[] Withdraw for now. You had enough information to consider your next strategy. You'll spare Rider and his Master for now.
[] Write in...

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Abort the Assassination. Chase after Ayumi before she vanishes again.

"Don't," you breathed, "Chase after Ayumi quickly. We're going to catch her this time."

"Are you sure? It'll get rid of Rider," Assassin asked you with a concerned tone.

"I'm sure. I don't want to deal with another Blackened because a Servant died. We have to get Ayumi and pin her down. Otherwise I won't be able to sleep at night," you growled as you got up giving Ophelia one last look as she laid on the ground.

Rider met your gaze before vanishing alongside his Master. You didn't have time to stand around, you broke into a run as Assassin went ahead of you. Ayumi couldn't have gone far but therein lies the problem. What if you got to her and she wasn't Ayumi anymore, the poor girl must be possessed again to go this far.

Assassin tried tracking her down but it seemed that Ayumi was faster on her legs than she let on. You searched for her some more and looked at your surroundings for faint traces of magical energy. The fire the Blackened had made had attracted the attention of the fire department and if they got here while you were looking, it would be another headache for you.

"Found her," Assassin echoed in your mind as you ended up seeing through her vision of Ayumi running down a road.

"I'm going," you told her as you found that the area was nearby. You reinforced your legs and made a break for it, running as fast as you could to intercept her.

You winced as your wounds acted up from you exerting yourself but you endured. This was more important. You ran through some buildings and found a quiet street several blocks away from the reservoir. You ended up stopping right in front of Ayumi as she nearly crashed into you. You held up your arm and stopped her right where she was, grabbing her shoulder as you caught her.

"Gotcha," you growled in a low voice as her eyes widened and looked up at you.

"H-Hans!" Ayumi gasped as she stepped back to get away, "I-"

You grabbed hold of her arm and gave her a stern look, "No more running. You're coming with me, okay?"

"I-I didn't know what happened. I didn't know what came over me. I just did something and I thought... I'm sorry," Ayumi panicked as her eyes began to glow before you interrupted her.

"You have to calm down. Calm down for now, okay?" you tried asking her as you held her shoulder, "You just have to stop running so we can sort this out. Your first instinct may be to run but where would you go? I can't just leave you out there, it's dangerous!"

You wanted to keep her under watch for any more suspicious activity but it seemed that she truly wasn't aware of her own actions. Having her lose control was the last thing you needed, especially if she had a tangential connection to the Blackened. You didn't want that thing reacting to her fluctuating emotions.

"I... I'm sorry," Ayumi breathed as she held her chest.

Her eyes began to turn back to normal, the blue glow that Manaka's eyes had subsiding. Was it her soul that was deteriorating or was it Manaka trying to find her way back? No, Manaka did mention that if time went on, Ayumi would be completely overwritten and she would just turn out to be another Manaka separate from the true one that first possessed the poor girl's body.

It's like an infection.

"I know someone who could probably fix you. Well, 'fix' in this case is very loose but we could probably stand a chance," you assured her as you met her gaze, "You'll just have to trust me, as big of an ask that is."

Ayumi grimaced but didn't complain, instead she gave you a firm nod. You tensed up as Assassin threw a kunai near the wall to your right. It smashed a jeweled familiar crawling up the wall before she got down and landed by your side. You looked down at the cracked gemstone and frowned as you left Ayumi with your Servant.

"Well then, this explains some things. Looks like my plans are out of the bag," you murmured as you inspected the stone.

"What is it?" Assassin asked you with a frown.

"Luvia was probably watching our entire fight with Ophelia. We can consider that alliance gone up in smoke," you replied as you stared at the gem in your hand, "They know I'm planning a future war and that my bs that I told them won't stick anymore. This must be Ophelia's gambit in meeting us here."

"Then... They'll consider me hostile too considering what I did," Ayumi said as she clenched her fists.

"We can't be sure about that. They know you're harmless but Ophelia has fought Manaka in your body. Sakura and Luvia will probably be wary of us now..." you said as you pocketed the gem familiar.

"Then what about Miyu? Will she be okay?"Ayumi asked with a worried tone.

"They won't hurt her so she'll be safe with them. Miyu is a smart girl but if this makes her change her opinion on us, then our chances of receiving the Grail gets shot," you summed up with a grim tone. You looked down the street and said, "That girl hates these wars. You could tell... Imagine what she'd think if she knew I'm planning on starting one after this."

"We can discuss this later. Hans, you need to get back to the church," Assassin told you with a sharp tone, "Your body..."

"I know. I'm just about to fall apart," you chuckled as you met her gaze, "Let's head back fast..."

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

It was late into the evening when Caren stepped out of Ayumi's room to speak with you outside the church. She had her arms crossed as she found you sitting by the gazebo all by yourself, her eyes quickly glancing at your hand now wrapped in bandages.

"You know, if you planned on getting injured so soon, I wouldn't have bothered with your first ones," Caren said as she walked towards you.

Glancing her way, you straightened up in your seat and smiled, "Well, too late for that now. How's the girl?"

"Her soul is rotting. I'm surprised that she managed to retain her ego in her state," Caren said as she took out a picture from her pocket and showed it to you. It was the picture of Ayumi as she was a couple weeks ago before she was possessed by Manaka. Caren spoke up as she continued, "There's only so much I could do. Had you brought her awhile back, I could have at least tried an exorcism."

"With what's possessed her, I doubt it would have helped. We would be both killed," you told her as you set down the photo, "Is there anything that could be done?"

"With proper observation from the Church, perhaps. I suggest entrusting her to our organization for rehabilitation... Though first you would have to sever her connection with the one that's contaminated her very soul," Caren explained as she took her seat and sighed, "Her personality is going to split between her own and the thing possessing her. It's no demon from what you described otherwise I would be feeling it but something far worse?"

"You could say that," you replied as you looked up the sky, "I'm leaving her under your care from now. I can't exactly watch over her with this War going on."

"And what? Leave the investigation of the Blackened to the King of Knights? You ask too much, Magus," Caren shrugged as she leaned on her seat, "Though you know, there are simpler ways to handle this. You're a pragmatic man."

"I don't like what you're implying," you frowned her way.

"Lord forgive me for such thoughts but you can't deny their effectivity," Caren pointed out as her yellow eyes met your blue ones, "It is something to consider, a choice God would offer you when the moment comes."

You stared at her for a long while before she closed her own eyes. She then stood up and turned her back on you.

"You should rest. Knowing you, no doubt you have something planned tomorrow. Sleep well knowing you managed to survive the night and, God willing, live to sleep another," Caren said as she walked away from you.

What a terrible woman...

You decided to stay out the gazebo some more, your runes providing you with warmth in this cold winter night. You looked at your bandaged hand as you raised it before you. From your side, a pair of hands reached out to hold it and you found Assassin standing beside you as she kept your hand warm.

"You should really listen to others, My Lord," Chiyome chided lightly as she wrapped her hands around your own.

You managed a small smile as exhaustion hit you all at once. You were tired, yeah... But you can't stop now. Tomorrow was the 18th of December, you can find Miyu then. You'll have to take her back during that time...

8 Days Till Christmas
​

[] "It's just a little bit more, Assassin. Just a little bit more and we can get this over with."
[] "I'm stubborn like that. I'm stubborn now... Sit with me, I could use better company."
[] "Nagging already? What happened to the quiet Chiyome I knew that just kept asking for orders. You're not cute anymore."
[] "Well then... Drag me back because my legs aren't working anymore. You could at least do that."
[] Write In...

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] "I'm stubborn like that. I'm stubborn now... Sit with me, I could use better company."

You smiled as you looked up at her, "I'm stubborn like that. I'm stubborn now... Sit with me, I could use better company."

"And without alcohol too? Will that be okay?" Assassin asked as she took her seat on the opposite side of the table.

"I doubt the Church would have anything for us given what it is," you chuckled as you leaned back on your seat. You then looked up at the sky and sighed, "I want to apologize."

Chiyome raised her eyebrows in surprise before asking, "Why?"

"For putting you through this. I know it's your duty and all as a Heroic Spirit but I can't help but feel bad. I feel like I'm just making things harder for us... For you," you told her as you glanced her way, "Sometimes I wish I could have been a better Master to you."

Assassin blinked at that while seriously considering your words. She took a few moments before giving her reply, "That's true. But I couldn't have asked for a better person to fight with me. The least I could do is ease your burden."

"It's our burden to share, Chiyome," you reminded her with a small smile, "Still, I feel like I haven't been exactly fair with you."

"Most Magus wouldn't even think that, Hans," Assassin giggled as she cracked a smile.

"Well most Magus aren't me," you pointed out as you shook your head.

"While you may think that you haven't exactly been fair, you have helped me in more ways than you know. You made me stronger than I could have ever imagined,"Chiyome said as she met your gaze, "Time and again, a man would help me when I'm at my lowest. Time and again I would lose them for one reason or the other. Just this once, Hans, I want you to live."

"The price for my fights don't exactly entail that-" you told her but she shook her head.

"Even if it's just a few months, even weeks, or perhaps days... Once you get what you want at the end of your battles, I want you to live free for even a moment. Free from your guilt, your grief and your anger," Chiyome said as she lowered her head, "You freed me from my Curse and while I can't stay by your side to free you from your torment... I could at least Wish for you to be happy."

You stared at her before nodding, "I see. You're too kind, Chiyome."

"You deserve it. No matter what others would say, that's how I would see it," Assassin said as she glanced your way, "We can win this War."

"I like seeing this newfound confidence of yours. Makes you more fierce," you chuckled.

"Stop joking around, I'm being serious here," Assassin fumed as she crossed her arms.

"Still, if living after all of this is freedom, then I don't think it's that bad," you replied as you leaned on your seat. Still, regardless, it was a nice bonus for what you wanted to achieve. Looking back at the road you went through to get here, it would have been worth it for you.

"You don't have to be satisfied with just getting to the finish line," Assassin told you in a quiet voice, "So promise me, once you're done fighting your Wars, remember to fight for yourself."

You blinked before shaking your head, "I can't-"

"Promise me," Chiyome insisted as she stood up her seat and leaned over the table.

You eventually relented and sighed, "Fine. I promise. Happy?"

"Honestly, you're a terrible man. I pity the woman that falls for you," Chiyome sighed as she crossed over to walk to your side.

"Isn't that you?" you asked her with a frown.

"Indeed it is. Why do you think self loathing is something I excel in, My Lord?" Chiyome asked as she stood before you.

You stared at her before sighing, "You're getting cheeky."

"Do you dislike it?" Chiyome mused as she smirked.

"I didn't say that," you replied as you tried standing up. You better get to bed or else you'll collapse in the middle of a fight or something. In fact, just as you were thinking that, you actually stumbled and fell forward, only for Assassin to catch you with her arm.

"Careful now," she said with a gentle tone.

"Thanks," you replied as she held you steady all while guiding you to your room. You were tired... Very tired.

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

Morning came and you were walking through the Church following the smell of food. You came upon the kitchen by the living quarters and found Caren reading the newspaper while the... female version of King Arthur was on her third serving of grilled fish and miso soup. Assassin was handling the cooking as she wore a casual set of clothes underneath a pink apron.

She had a bandana on her head as she worked the stove, turning to see you by the door.

"Good morning, My Lord," Assassin warmly greeted you.

"Morning. Same to you two," you greeted all three people in the dining room.

Caren peered from behind her paper and said, "I see there's no good there but the Lord will forgive you. And may he forgive you more for having such a perfect wife material for a Servant."

Assassin tensed up and flushed, "Lady Caren please."

"It reminds me of Sakura's cooking. Authentic in the style of the Oriental Cuisine. It's not half bad," Artoria praised as she raised you a bowl, "Come, Mr. Derrinsmith, let's eat while we can."

"Yeah, I'll think I'll have a bit," you replied with an awkward chuckle.

Caren took this chance to jump on you, "A bit? And squander the fruits of your Servant's labor? To not take advantage of this and savor the meal she has made is an affront to her and towards the Lord."

"I didn't take you for a cruel man, Mr. Derrinsmith," Artoria mused as she looked your way.

"Oh geez, you're making an injured man eat more than he could. What's that if not torture?" you griped as you sat down on the table.

"That's okay, Master. I made some meals that will fit you," Assassin said as she handed you your food.

Caren was giving you a sour look tinged with envy while Artoria simply shook her head before eating some more.

A Third Chance at Normalcy
​

[] Speak to Caren about your plans for tonight. You're going to be busy so she might want to be ready with her healing skills and tools. You'll probably come back with some broken bones.
[] Ask Artoria about what she did last night. She wasn't present at the Church when you came back with Ayumi in tow. In fact has she met the girl yet?
[] You should eat quickly and gather up some food you can deliver to Ayumi. You should see how the girl's doing yourself. Maybe speak with her some more regarding her current condition.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Ask Artoria about what she did last night. She wasn't present at the Church when you came back with Ayumi in tow. In fact has she met the girl yet?

You began to eating in earnest, enjoying Assassin's meal with a satisfied sigh. It was delicious through and through, bearing the feeling normal meals you had at the office definitely lacked. It was the morning of another confrontation in retrieving Miyu so no doubt the remaining four Masters in the War were going to make their moves. You had to be ready since you could end up in a precarious situation as soon as you got careless.

"I'll be heading off to give Ayumi her meal. We can't have her go hungry," Assassin volunteered as she took up a tray and glanced your way, "I'll be taking my leave."

"Sure, thanks for the food," you nodded gratefully and she only smiled back at you.

"No flirting under the house of the Lord," Caren chimed in from behind her paper.

"This is why you don't have friends," you growled her way as the Nun gave you a smug look and continued reading. Shaking your head, you decided to make better use of your social skills by talking to King Arthur herself, "So, Miss Pendragon..."

"Oh just call me Artoria. To be honest, I rarely use that name these days," Artoria chuckled as she met your gaze.

"Artoria then... Have you found anything interesting last night? You weren't here when we came back with Ayumi in tow... In fact, have you met the girl already?" you asked with a curious look.

"I was out patrolling, hopefully for Luvia or Sakura to contact me in some manner. However they seem to be laying low for some reason. I have my suspicions that you have something to do with that?" Artoria asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Well depending on how I deal with them tonight, I may end up fighting them. Though I do hope that as an Outsider, our lovely Administrator will keep you from taking my head now," You said as you raised your hands. Caren ignored you while Artoria simply gave you a pointed look before sipping her tea. You smiled and added, "Well, if it means anything, I have no intention of killing them. I just need their Servant dead in order to progress this War, but given the complications that have occurred with Last Night's Blackened Attack..."

"That's only making things harder. Which brings up the point, King of Britain," Caren said as she set down her newspaper, "You were sent here not just to monitor but to decide whether it's feasible for the Matou girl to continue fighting, were you not? I do have a suggestion."

"Oh boy," you coughed.

"I have met the Matou girl before and she seems like an upstanding woman seeking her independence. She has this drive about her that words won't get through properly. You may come and find yourself trying to drag her back by force. Now it's your prerogative on what you should do with the situation that's at hand but I think you shouldn't miss the opportunity of having Mr. Derrinsmith's help."

"What?"

"What?"

You and the Knight choked in your drinks at her suggestion. You managed to compose yourself first, "Wait, no. She doesn't have to. I mean, it's sort of fucked up making her fight her allies."

"Not only that but Sakura is not a child to be coddled, she's her own woman. I'm simply here to make sure she doesn't put herself in danger. And I have confidence the good gentleman here wouldn't kill her... Would you?" Artoria asked as she glanced your way.

"Of course not. I'd rather not make more enemies than I already have. I've fought Emiya Shirou once and I still get nightmares about it," you griped as you leaned back in your seat.

Artoria's eyes widened as she stood up, "You know Shirou?!"

"I... Well... He beat me up that one time. Has he told you of his escapades last year?" you asked with an awkward tone.

"Last Year..? Oh, you mean that Grail War he fought in America. I was there," Artoria told you with a frown before she relaxed in her chair, "At least at the last hour of it. I fought alongside a rather beautiful Queen against a Servant of Thorns."

So she was the one who helped Medb defeat Ferdiad? That Doll sure had luck in her side while she was ripping you to shreds.

"I see. Well as I said, we fought one another and that's the extent of it. Though Sakura did say that the man has gone missing which makes up her reason for fighting this War," you pointed out as you sipped your tea.

Artoria seemed surprised by this before frowning, "Did she now? And here I thought she was just trying to dismantle this War."

"It would seem that the Matou girl has her agenda," Caren said as she raised an eyebrow.

"Still, I did have an agreement with Luvia that she'll let me win. However given the circumstances, I doubt they'll let me take the Grail," you sighed as you shook your head.

"And why is that?" Artoria questioned as her eyes suddenly sharpened. Caren was also looking your way with a curious look.

"I'm going to wage another. The power of this Grail isn't powerful enough for my purposes. That's why I plan on establishing another in the future," you declared as you glanced at the two of them, "For a group planning on dismantling Wars, surely you can see how my true goals would make them turn against me."

Artoria stared at you long and hard as she clenched her fist, "You're not the type to use the Grail for something insidious but I can see you're the type of man to do what he needs to achieve his goals. Something tells me that this open admission has a reason for it being said?"

"Well, I did lie a bit in the middle of negotiating my alliance with Luvia and Sakura. But you can't do anything to me as you are now. You're an Outsider after all... Still, I do want to mention that my goal isn't to bring harm to the world. It's a personal one," you shared as you tried to convince the King before you.

"Personal?" Caren asked with a raised eyebrow.

"As they are now, the Petty Grails are too weak for my Wish. So I gather them. I fight Wars. I've fought for Ten Years to gather the amount I need. The power to rival Fuyuki's Grail," you replied as Artoria's eyes widened in turn. You then held up a hand, "Free of Angra Mainyu's corruption, a pristine Grail that would grant my wish."

"To reach the Root?" Artoria guessed.

"To atone," you replied as you met her gaze, "And hopefully fix my mistakes. Surely you have some regrets you wish to fix as well, Artoria? You understand, right?"

Artoria stared at you for a moment before closing her eyes and relaxing, "I'm content with the life I live now. I have no need to chase the past for it's long since gone. I do have regrets yes, but it's simply part of being human. If given the chance I would seize it... But not at the expense of the life I have now. Hans Derrinsmith... Just how broken of a man are you to consider this path? Because take it from me, there is no happy ending at the end of this."

She then got up and took her used dishes. Upon placing them over at the sink she then spoke once more.

"I will not get in your way however do know that my presence here solely rests upon keeping Sakura safe and investigating the Blackened as a favor to the Church. If that's what you wish to accomplish, Mr. Derrinsmith, then all I could say is good luck," Artoria said as she turned to walk past you, "I'll be getting some fresh air."

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

Night eventually came and you were thinking about what Artoria had said. He was pretty messed up, that he could readily admit. Few people would approve of what he was planning, especially given the scale of destruction Grail Wars tend to have in their wake. Every one was aware of the risks and dangers, lives could be put at stake and yet still you want to pursue your Wish.

You knew all of that going into this fight.

That's why you didn't have doubts.

That's why you can only move forward. You can do the right thing when asked, to help, to save and to be kind. But when it came to seeing Celine again, you wouldn't hesitate to bring everything down just to meet her, to apologize for failing her.

You felt your Command Seals burn and so the remaining Masters were made privy to Miyu's location. You felt your entire body ache as you leaned against the wall nearby and grit your teeth.

Your vision zoomed out of the city, giving you a bird's eye view of the area. It then zoomed back down, allowing you to see clearly from overhead towards a dark cemetary within the older portion of the city. You zoomed further in as Miyu was being kept within a mausoleum with Luvia by her side.

You gasped as you were pulled out of the vision and you were back on your feet.

"Should we go?"

There's only one right answer to that...

"Yeah. Let's do this," you replied as you began to walk.

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

You reached the cemetery a a handful of minutes later. You kept Assassin hidden while you walked on your own, the sensation of stepping into a bounded field filling your senses. You held up your cane which you brought with you and dispelled the minute effects aiming to distract your senses as you looked around.

It was a snow covered graveyard of the city's old residents. A thin layer of fog hovered in the air and you were certain that wasn't natural.

The moon shined overhead as the you looked ahead to see someone standing beneath a lamppost. Sakura Matou had her bow and arrows on her person and was equipped with the black and red sleeve Mystic Code she had.

"Hans," she spoke as she had a somber tone in her voice.

"Good to see you're okay, Sakura," you greeted as you looked her way, "How's Miyu?"

"Hans I can't let you have her. Not with what you're planning... Ophelia told us everything and we've come to accept that Ayumi needs to be put down. Hans, I'm sorry," Sakura apologized as she lowered her head.

"Someone's looking for you. Artoria was her name. Ring any bells?" you asked her with a raised eyebrow, "I don't want to hurt you, Sakura. But if you ask me, I'd stand down for now. I still need your help. We can take down the Blackened and Saber together-"

"We'll only do that if you give up on the Grail," Sakura argued with you as she held her bow, "We can't afford any more of these Grail Wars to occur. Not for anything Hans!"

"I know that... But this is important for me," you insisted.

"Don't you understand... Just how horrible these Wars are? What sacrifice people make into make them come true? How many lives are hurt because of them? Do you understand at all what it all means? My life has turned into what it was because of these Wars... And knowing they run rampant to this day and hurting others is something we can't let continue," Sakura declared as she drew upon her arrow and took aim at you, "You're a good person, Hans. Just give up."

You stared her down before you sighed, "I see. Then there's nothing left to discuss."

"Hans!" Sakura barked.

"I understand. But I can't just stop," you told her with a sharp tone, "Not with how much blood is in my hands already. The chance for me to stop has long since past. The only thing I can do now is win."

Sakura had a difficult expression on her face before Lancer appeared by her side.

"I told you Master, there's no use talking. That guy's a complete psycho," Lancer replied as she glared your way, "I always knew you were bad. You and that Ninja of yours."

"Lancer!" Sakura cried out as Lancer summoned her sickle.

"All this stress of being in the same room as Perseus can finally be let out. I've been waiting for this," Lancer hissed as she eyed you with a hateful look, "Here I come!"

Lancer kicked off the ground and darted towards you.

"Aegis," you chanted and a golden shield appeared before you, forcing Lancer to stop and cut it apart. The shield shattered and Assassin came out of her stealth behind you and thrust her sword at her foe, forcing Lancer to block.

"Finally, I can snap your little neck!" Lancer hissed.

Assassin remained quiet and knocked her back, palming the ground, she managed to disarm Lancer of her weapon by kicking it into the air. Lancer pulled on her Scythes' chain and swung it down. Chiyome flipped back and evaded as she landed by your side.

An arrow flew and Assassin swatted it aside.

Spoiler: BGM

GRAND BATTLE
VS
LANCER
MEDUSA

Winter Scales
​

[] Finish this in one. Have Assassin lower Lancer's guard and unleash Ame no Habakiri. Lancer doesn't know about it yet so it should get her.
[] Spare no mercy in this fight. You won't kill Sakura but you and Assassin will work together to wear her down with every trick you know.
[] This bounded field is going to do something, you just don't know what. Have Assassin keep Lancer busy while you investigate. Maybe draw Sakura away from her Servant.
[] Write in...

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] This bounded field is going to do something, you just don't know what. Have Assassin keep Lancer busy while you investigate. Maybe draw Sakura away from her Servant.

"I'll handle Sakura. Keep Lancer out of my hair," you ordered as you leaned on your cane.

Assassin nodded as she drew her sword and kunai. Lancer narrowed her gaze before shooting towards you, only for Assassin to intercept her from the side. The two Servants clashed before Assassin kicked her into the ground. Lancer staggered back before turning to slash at your Servant, moving faster than the eye could see but Assassin parried the blow.

Chains swung down and Assassin moved, defending herself against each blows while maintaining her posture. Sparks flew between the two of them before Lancer turned and threw her chain at Chiyome. Assassin tossed a kunai to redirect it before Lancer swept in with a swing, forcing your Servant to jump and land a kick across her face.

"Lancer!" Sakura cried out as she took aim and fired.

"Not on my watch," you barked as you etched a rune and launched fiery darts to meet with Sakura's projectile.

The air exploded as Lancer pushed and slashed from below, forcing Assassin to evade and the two of them swinging at once and clashing. Sparks flew between them as they went past one another. Stomping on the ground, Lancer turned and threw her scythe as she twisted her body. Assassin saw this and jumped, spinning as she evaded it and landing on the ground.

Lancer tugged at her chain and pulled her weapon back. Chiyome turned and parried the scythe, only for Lancer to whip her sickle around and extending her range. Gravestones were cut down and pieces of stone flew through the air.

"I've been waiting for this moment, Assassin. You won't get away this time!" Lancer roared as she whipped the air with her scythe and jumped, sending her weapon down at Assassin.

Chains filled the air before Assassin smacked aside the Scythe and began parrying the chains coming for her. She slashed and hacked down the chains as if they all took a life of their own, only flipping back as one portion of the chain smashed into the ground she stood on. The scythe sliced thrice as she evaded it before Lancer threw it faster and harder.

Chiyome took out a bomb and lit it, detonating it before the scythe her, using the force to knock it off course while Assassin vanished. Lancer's eyes widened as she yanked her scythe back. She grabbed hold of the scythe's shaft as her chains danced around her, her body tensing as she looked back, her eyes flashing bright as her hood came off.

Purple hair danced in the air as light came from Lancer's Mystic Eyes.

"Mystic Eyes of Petrification(Cybele)," Lancer echoed as she caught Assassin trying to get the jump behind her.

Assassin's body turned to stone almost immediately but Lancer's eyes only widened as it turned out to be an illusion. In Chiyome's place was a black snake that turned to stone. At the next moment, black Serpents with heads as large as cars emerged from the ground to take a bite out of Lancer. Gritting her teeth, Lancer chopped all of their heads at once filling the air with blood.

"Lancer, be alert!" Sakura ordered just as Assassin came from the shadows.

Lancer narrowed her gaze and found herself standing her ground as Assassin thrust her sword. However a surge of magical energy burst from her body and pushed Chiyome back.

"Mana Burst?" you murmured as you found yourself holding on to your cane.

Lancer used the momentary opening to step close to Assassin. With blinding speed, only purple lightning was left in her wake as she appeared on Chiyome's side. Your Servant reacted and got low to stop her head from being cut off. This gave Lancer the chance to smash her leg into Chiyome's stomach and send her flying back.

"Oh shit," you breathed as Assassin hit the ground and reoriented herself upon sliding back.

Lancer lowered her scythe as she spoke, "Enough games. Your tricks will be of no use."

Assassin turned to you and met your gaze. She nodded and faced her foe once more. You can spare to trust her, you can do at least that much. You turned your back on her and focused your own gaze on the graveyard and at the bounded field which surrounded it. Breaking into a run, you quickly identified as prominent nodes of magic.

It was like miniature leylines and it was serving as fuel to power this bounded field. Though what was the output and where does it...

You stopped and evaded an arrow which flew towards you. Sakura had managed to catch up to you as she notched another arrow.

"Hans!" she shouted before firing.

You responded by sliding down the ground and dodging her shot. You got out of cover and etched runes to call upon stone debris before repelling them with another rune. They rained a scatter shot of wreckage towards Sakura while you searched for the nodes. If you severed this bounded field's power source then-!

"Gotcha," you breathed as you found one magic circle and quickly dispelled it with your cane.

The bounded field shuddered and Sakura's eyes widened upon finding you. She grit her teeth and fired as she cried out, "Lancer! Do it!"

Lancer was preoccupied fighting Assassin but managed to find the time to raise her hand in the air. You noticed what this was and quickly acted by pricking your hand and offering your blood.

"Come forth Spirits of Malevolence, this blood of mine will be your offering! Go forth and destroy all the circles you find!" you ordered as Evil Spirits howled into the night before rushing towards their targets.

Sakura managed to shoot down four of them as Lancer activated her Noble Phantasm.

" Outer Seal, Blood Temple(Blood Fort Andromeda)," Lancer roared and the night sky quickly turned scarlet as a crimson ball hung in the air, the bounded field turning red almost instantaneously. However this transformation was immediately rolled back as your Evil Spirits managed to destroy several anchor points for the bounded field to manifest.

"Assassin!" you barked as Chiyome moved in and clashed with Lancer once more.

"You can't stop my Bounded Field, boy! With each circle destroyed more will only come!" Lancer screamed at you as she pushed back Assassin and swung upwards. Chiyome evaded and flipped to the side before clashing twice, sparks flashing between the two of them before Lancer broke through the contact and aimed for Assassin's neck.

Assassin managed to dodge and flip back, tossing pellets into the ground and creating smoke. Using the curtain of smoke, Assassin jumped towards Lancer and smashed into her, landing a kick straight into Medusa's sternum. Assassin didn't stop her assault as she pulled out several shinobi tools and rained metal and weapons at her foe.

Lancer used mana burst once more and blew them all away.

Sakura drew her arrows and fired at you while you moved a couple of Evil Spirits to catch her shots.

"If there's more then I just have to keep breaking them," you growled as Banshees howled and Specters rushed to collapse each circle that appeared.

"You can't win, Hans. Not when lives are at stake here! Think of the future!" Sakura argued with you as she strafed and fired arrows by the double.

Gravestones exploded and Spirits were forced to dissipate as you summoned Aegis. You tossed out projectiles in response as you spoke, "Cut the crap, Sakura. I know what you want. You knew this would happen from the beginning, you knew this fight will eventually occur, if you want the Grail, you'll have to stop me from getting it. Stop saying that this is about anything but what you want!"

"My life was ruined because the Grail Wars. My Sister's husband is missing because of the Grail Wars! I can't just let you go, not when I know what you're planning! Seven Grails, Hans? You're going to use the power of Seven Grails?!" Sakura yelled as she took aim charging her next shot before firing.

You raised your shield and took the brunt of the blow. An explosive force managed to crack Aegis but not fully shattering it but the smoke cleared and Sakura was holding an arrowhead filled with her magical energy. She smashed Aegis open, the shield shattering around you as she swung her bow at you.

You moved and intercepted her blow with your cane.

"You're not like other Magus. You're different, Hans. You're a good person... That's why no matter what, the things that could come from a war like that would just hurt a lot of people..." Sakura breathed as she met your gaze, pushing her strength against yours as she pushed you back, "I have my own wish, yes. I have my own agendas... But I can never agree with your establishing your own War with that much power on the line!"

"Then fine... Stop me if you can," you replied as you gripped your cane, "Now I'm motivated. Show me that you got what it takes, Matou!"

You managed to overwhelm her for a moment before etching a rune between the two of you. A pillar of flames burst between you both as she rolled back and notched an arrow, taking aim as an Evil Spirit hovered behind you, stretching its arms as multiple skulls filled the base of its neck. Sakura was forced to abandon her shot to evade the Spirit's swipe.

You were able to delay the Bounded Field's full potential but you can't keep this up for long. In a battle of attrition, Lancer had the advantage. You could tell that this field was made solely for you to be sapped of your power. If the circles would continue on appearing then your Ghosts won't be able to keep up. It'll only stop if either Lancer was killed or Lancer stopped it on her own, that was your guess. You couldn't kill Sakura but you had to do something.

Blood Fort
​

[] Have Assassin utilize her new Noble Phantasm and catch Lancer off guard. Blow her away in one go before she can react.
[] Have Assassin keep Lancer busy while you take down Sakura. If Sakura's down then Lancer may stand down if you have a hostage.
[] Have Assassin to stop pulling her punches. She can go all out, you have her permission to show no mercy to Lancer. This ends now.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Have Assassin utilize her new Noble Phantasm and catch Lancer off guard. Blow her away in one go before she can react.

"Assassin! Let loose!" you ordered as you felt the effects of the Bounded Field more now. Your body was growing hotter and your senses were becoming hazy. You can't stay here or risk turning into flesh soup! For her part, Chiyome seemed to understand what you meant and was quick to evade Lancer's attacks.

Assassin braced herself and stopped dodging, moving forward to meet Lancer's blow head on. Chiyome braved Lancer's strikes and parried back, sparks flying through the air before weaving through her foe's chain. She then took out lit firecrackers and detonated them in a sweeping flourish. Lancer flinched and was momentarily distracted, allowing Chiyome to deliver two heavy swings.

Turning in place, she managed to loosen Lancer's hold on her scythe before the enemy Servant retaliated and sent her flying with a backhand. Sheathing her sword, Chiyome ran forward and threw two Kunai at her foe, forcing Lancer to swat them aside before Assassin kicked off the ground to jump, slashing fast as she descended.

" Celestial Weave,(Flame Arts: Sundering Star)" Chiyome breathed as fire burned upwards alongside her slash only to descend as she chased after Lancer with her next swing.

Throwing a Kunai, she forced Lancer to parry before taking a blow which dealt damage to the enemy Servant's stance. Chiyome realized this and sought to destabilize Lancer as much as possible. Sidestepping a swing and weaving beneath a chain, Assassin threw a kunai at Lancer's leg before tossing up a pellet in the air.

Lancer parried the kunai but had her attention divided by the pellet which burst and echoed a deafening sound. She gasped before opening her eyes to see Assassin lunged at her. Lancer snarled and performed Mana Burst once more, swinging Harpe down at Chiyome and disarming her with one blow.

With her foe unarmed, Lancer moved to reach out to your Servant.

"NOW!" you roared as Lancer's eyes widened.

Chiyome drew a second sword from the air, glimmering from the light provided by the crimson eye which hung overhead. Assassin was already in mid-swing, giving Lancer no chance to evade even if she wanted to. That was probably why she stood her ground and raised her guard for what was to come, standing steadfast as Chiome's sword appeared in full.

" Snake Slaying Dance of the Heavens,(Ame no Habakiri)" Chiyome declared as her sword surged with power, the Noble Phantasm roaring as the air split in its path.

"LANCER!" Sakura cried out as she held out her hand.

Assassin was able to cut through Lancer in one swing, slicing through the ground and heavens itself, splitting the Bounded Field in half as well as cutting the clouds themselves. Lancer gasped as she found Harpe split in her grasp as well as her left arm severed from her body. Her eyes widened as she gaze down upon Chiyome whom had her at her mercy.

"Saburou!" Assassin cried out as black serpents hissed upon flying from behind her, biting into Lancer's flesh and sinking their fangs deep. They sent her staggering back as her arm bled from Assassin's strike, that glimmering blue and green blade shining in her grasp.

The Bounded Field had been shattered and its effects were quick to dissipate. You managed to hold up your cane before striking it into the ground, forcing the Evil Spirits which you directed to dissipate all at once. Lancer fell down her knees as she held her side with Chiyome standing over her, victorious.

"It's over, Lancer," Assassin declared as she looked down on her foe, "You lost."

"Then why not kill me?" Lancer grit her teeth as she glared at Assassin.

"Because there's a bigger threat in this War. We can't have you dying yet until you've helped us," Assassin said as she turned to you, "Isn't that right, Hans?"

Sakura let out a breath before falling down her knees, "We... Lost."

"The Fight isn't over yet, Sakura. That Blackened is still out there... I know you're worried about the future but you can't let that thing keep roaming," you told her as you put your weight behind your cane, "And if we kill Lancer now, it's only going to make things worse for us. The future can wait, people need you now."

"If you let us go, then well just fight you again," Sakura said as she slowly got up.

"That won't be the case," a voice echoed behind you.

Lancer and Sakura turned to face a woman walking up from behind you. Dressed in her knightly armor, Artoria revealed herself to the Master and Servant with her invisible sword in her hand. Her eyes were fixed squarely on Sakura whom looked back at the King of Britain with a stunned expression.

"By all accounts, you've lost this bout. In terms of skill, magecraft and strategy, you've lost on all fronts. Were it anyone else, Rin would be hearing some very bad news right about now," Artoria said as she calmly lowered her weapon, "Sakura, you've done enough."

"And let this bastard do as he pleases? You think this is some kind of joke? I don't care who you are, but you're not going to stop us," Lancer snarled as she slowly got up.

"If you refuse to concede, Lancer, you'll find yourself outnumbered on this one. Don't jeopardize Sakura's wellbeing any further than you have," Artoria sternly rebuked as she tightened her grip.

Chiyome made her presence known as she held her sword as well. Lancer grit her teeth as she kept her hand on her weapon, but before she could attack Sakura spoke up.

"Lancer, stand down," Sakura ordered but she wasn't looking at her Servant, she was looking at Artoria. She held her arm as she walked over to the Knight King and said, "I understand. We'll concede from the War. But you don't get to coddle me, Artoria. You just made me realize that I'm still lacking."

"If it gets you to stand down," Artoria sighed as she shook her head, "I'll take whatever anger you have. But know that there's bigger things at work here."

You watched this from the side and managed a breath of relief. Chiyome seemed satisfied as well, even if she had to pull out her Noble Phantasm. Now you just needed to get to Miyu from here on ou-

CRASH

Something descended from the skies and landed behind you. Your eyes widened upon seeing the visage of a Sphinx looking down on you, its body dripping with black mud and its golden eyes shining bright. Lights burst from its eyes and nearly blew you apart had Artoria not moved in the way and taken the brunt of the blow.

"Guh!" she gasped as she slid back while protecting you.

You turned, "Assassin!"

Chiyome reacted as she ran toward the Sphinx with her blade in hand but the monster's body was quick to burst into infernal flames. She abandoned her charge and hit the ground, dashing away from the beast's claws as it turned towards her. Artoria moved in and tried to enter its guard but the monster spread its wings to blow hot wind towards you.

"Aegis!" you barked as you held your cane up to protect Sakura behind you.

Artoria was blown back but a shadow passed over her as Lancer threw a chain down to grab on the beast, only for it to melt upon coming close.

"Up above!" Sakura cried out as a golden boat drifted through the sky, its cannons primed towards your group down at the cemetery.

"SHIT!" you cursed just as it fired. You turned to your Servant, "Asssassin! Knock them out of the air!"

Golden beams thundered downwards but Assassin managed to get in front of them and brace herself. With her sword singing, she activated her Noble Phantasm once more, swinging twice as she split the air and space before her.

"Snake Slaying Dance of the Heavens!(Ame no Habakiri)" Assassin snarled as she cut apart the beams of light with her swings, forcing them to dissipate as her blade was just about to touch the golden boat.

A Barrier kept that from happening as a man stood on the edge of the boat, looking down on all of you from where he stood.

Sphinxes emerged from the boat and flew down towards your group as the vehicle itself moved further past the cemetery to the very end of it.

"He's headed towards where Miyu is..." Sakura breathed as she held her bow, "Luvia's with Miyu but I doubt she can handle that thing on her own."

"I'll handle these monsters. Go, Sakura! Retrieve the Grail and run away!" Artoria ordered as she bared her sword towards the monsters.

"On your own?" you asked with a frown.

"She's not exactly alone," a woman's voice said before Caren stopped hiding behind a large gravestone, "Secure the Grail. We'll handle things here."

"Always the flair for theatrics, aren't you? You trying to be dramatic or something?" You asked as you glanced her way.

"Better run before I use these Seals on you," Caren warned as she activated one of her Command Seals, "I order you, Artoria, by our Temporary Contract and these Command Seals, don't hold back against these things."

"On it," Artoria replied as she tensed and shot towards her foes.

You turned to Sakura and said, "We have to move. Assassin, go on ahead and get to Miyu now. We'll catch up."

"Yes," Assassin replied as she moved.

Lancer grit her teeth and held her side before walking over to where her arm fell. She then faced Sakura and said, "I'll go on ahead too. You stay clear."

"Lancer, no. You stay with us," Sakura said as she gave her Servant a hard look, "We need you here. We can't be left unguarded."

"Leave me alone with that prick then I might not hold back," Lancer warned her Master as she glanced at you.

"Fair enough," you replied with a nod as the three of you ran. You looked up ahead to see that the golden boat had made its descent, only for its cannons to light up and fire all at once. Piercing pillars of light burst forth and surged through the air, pummeling the ground as you saw Chiyome evade through the volley with sheer skill.

"Lancer, can you still fight?" Sakura asked as she ran by your side.

Lancer grinned, "Sure."

Sakura nodded and said, "You have my permission to use your Noble Phantasm. Take down that boat!"

Lancer slid to a halt and held up her remaining hand as her scythe vanished. In its place was a shining bridle which surged with raw power as you struggled to see through the light. Light pierced through the air and shot over your group, causing you to knock down Sakura into the ground to keep her from being hit.

Lancer stood her ground as soon a magic circle was made manifest and a Divine Beast rivaling the Sphinx appeared in full. You recognized it as being similar to what Rider used. So she was also able to access it, huh? Chiyome dived through the air to get close to the boat but cannon fire kept her at bay, forcing her to keep her distance.

A cannon was fixed on your location.

"ASSASSIN!" you yelled as Chiyome targeted the cannon aimed at your group with an explosive cluster of kunai, the impact being enough to shift its aim by a few degrees but it still fired.

You got up in front of Lancer and held up your hand, "AEGIS SUPREMA!"

The golden shield burst forth, taking a brunt of the blast but it was like clay against a vicious torrent of water. It did little to protect you from the beam's heat and damaging winds but it was enough to give Lancer the time to fully summon her Divine Beast. The wings of Pegasus unfurled and Lancer was able to ride on it as your shield shattered from the light.

"Witness this, boy. The strength I hide," Lancer declared as she held on tight to the Pegasus' reins as it flapped its wings once, power filling the air, " Bridle of Chivalry(BELLEROPHON)."

Similar to how Rider had used it in his fight with Chiyome, Lancer controlled the winged horse and had it charge. She didn't even need to soar high up and descend but she instead lunged forth with a speed five times faster than a bullet. It wasn't enough time for the Blackened's boat to evade so it simply fired every single weapon it had on her.

Lancer burst through the beams of light, punching through them before smashing into the golden boat in full and taking a huge chunk of it.

The boat was soon bathed in flames as it ended up descending into the graveyard with a crash. Lancer swooped up the air as she and Assassin met each other's gaze, only for Lancer to look away and fly up the sky with her Pegasus. You ran up to Chiyome as she glanced at you, a smile of relief on her face before you and Sakura looked towards a nearby mausoleum.

Pieces of debris had managed to blow its roof apart so you and Sakura were quick to run towards it. You both saw the door fall down and Luvia step out with an alarmed look. She first looked at Sakura by your side before looking your way, her hands twitching before she noticed Assassin nearby. She took stock of the situation and stamped down her instincts.

"You made it then," She said with a grim look.

"Where's Miyu?" you asked her with a sharp tone.

Luvia hesitated before she glanced at Sakura who could only nod. After a moment, she stepped aside, "She's inside. Sh-"

"Is she safe?" you cut her off before Luvia nodded in response.

"Then we have to get her out of here. We're in no state to fight the Blackened," you told her as you turned to Sakura, "Let's go."

Luvia sighed as she nodded as well, "Follow me. I've put her behind several layers of barriers to keep her safe. We can take the secret passage beneath the mausoleum back to Ophelia's hideout."

"It'll be much safer than the open at the very least," you said as you walked by the tomb of an old Duke or something buried here. Luvia went to the back of the mausoleum and opened a door hidden behind a statue, stepping in to lead you to a hidden chamber leading underground.

The tunnel was lit with gemstones until you reached the end of it. You were then allowed entrance into a room hidden beneath the graveyard leading to what could only be catacombs. This was the place you saw in your vision earlier this evening. You looked ahead to find Miyu standing with her back turned to you, facing you only upon hearing footsteps.

The girl's golden eyes widened upon seeing you before you paused while the others filed in.

"Sakura? Luvia?" Miyu asked as she glanced at them.

You and Assassin stood side to side in front of the other two as Miyu was forced to meet your gaze. She was fine... You could only feel relief at this point.

"Miyu... It's time to leave," you told her as you held out your hand.

However the girl simply looked at you... And took a step back.

"Your Wish, I won't grant it, Hans," Miyu declared as she clenched her fists.

Chaos​

[] "What... What do you mean you won't?"
[] "You're right, Miyu. You won't. All I need is your capacity to grant it. Nothing else."
[] "I don't know what Ophelia told you, but I can explain. Just not now."
[] "Wow. That's the first time I've seen you decide on something strongly. You've grown up, Miyu."
[] Write in...

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] "Wow. That's the first time I've seen you decide on something strongly. You've grown up, Miyu."

You were a bit taken aback by her words but you supposed this was to be expected. Miyu knew full well how bad this war could get. In fact, what was happening now was just another reason for her case. You can't argue with her like you would with Sakura. She was just a child but you had to admit that she was intelligent. She may be taught to be the Grail for this War but that didn't mean she would agree to its supposed misuse. Regardless, she seemed to be misunderstanding what you needed from her.

You were still impressed though. Her words alone were enough to make you and Chiyome stop in your tracks. She was determined, almost as if she had it all placed down. That was good, you wanted her to be this way. You were almost proud of her for that but you tried not to smile as you met her gaze. It didn't change the fact that your goals were no longer aligned with the truth drawn out by Ophelia.

"Wow. That's the first time I've seen you decide on something strongly," you pointed out as you relaxed yourself, "You've grown up, Miyu."

"It's less that but I more that I doubted you. I can't let you have the Grail, not for the purposes you want to have it for," Miyu replied as she clenched her fists.

"You're still unsure then? Do you want to hear it from me?" you asked her with a patient tone.

"Why a War? I can understand you fighting these battles but to start one on the scale you're planning is going to end poorly. Everyone here knows that and disagrees. No Wish is worth that much sacrifice, Hans," Miyu replied as she met your gaze.

"Because it's the only way I can draw upon a miracle. A miracle that the Fuyuki Grail could have granted... Or the Child of God's power at its peak. However, the Fuyuki Grail is no more and even then it was tainted and proved to be of no use in its state," you explained as Sakura winced behind you. Luvia gave you a hard look but you ignored them as you continued, "And I couldn't risk your life by asking you to grant my Wish. I don't need you to do that."

"But I can do it, you said it yourself," Miyu argued in a desperate tone.

"I can't ask you to lay down your life for my selfishness. I'd be no different from the people that put you in this situation," you answered while shaking your head.

"And you think waging a War with Seven Grails makes you any better? Think of the lives at stake here!" Miyu snapped at you as she grit her teeth and scowled at you in frustration, "You may be saving me but how many children like me are going to suffer? How many families will be torn apart? Is it worth it, Hans? Because if that's what it'll take then I'll grant your Wish using my life!"

"I promised you didn't I?" you breathed as you walked towards her. Miyu took a step back as you met her gaze, however she didn't go farther than she already had.

You knelt down before her and said, "I'd get you and your Mom out of here... Together."

"It isn't right," Miyu said as she looked at you, "You're..."

"You don't have to agree with me. You're free to hate me. You're free to think I betrayed your trust. But the last thing I want is you giving your life up for me," you told her with a hard tone as you met her gaze, "Don't waste it on a dying man, not when you have so much ahead of you. Besides, your Mother is going to kill me if anything happens to you."

"Tell me, what is your Wish? Tell me your real Wish," Miyu asked as she raised her head.

"I want to apologize to my sister that I failed to protect. When a person dies, their soul returns to Akasha where they dissipate and absorbed by it. Their ego vanishes for good and everything about them vanishes. My aim is to retrieve the blueprint of my sister's Soul and create a duplicate I could allow to live on her own," you explained as you slowly got up.

Luvia's eyes widened and said, "So that's your plan... You've fed us half truths this entire time and your aim is to do that? All that power, all that potential to wield Magic, your aim is not exactly resurrection but something else entirely. You do realize that even if you succeed, what you'll make won't exactly be what you want."

"I've taken that to account. The ego is gone but I have her memories recorded. Every facet of her personality, her memories, her dreams and her wishes, I have it all stored away for this one Victory. My aim is to give that girl the life she was supposed to have. I should have died that night, not her!" you shouted as you faced Luvia as you clenched your fist, "And I'll keep fighting, I'll keep living... And even if I fail in the end, at least before I die I want to hear it from her mouth... If she'll reject me or forgive me. I won't stop, Edelfelt. Everything I've worked for lies on that War."

"There's no guarantee you'll even win," Sakura said as she raised her head, "Hans, just how many more times are you willing to fight?"

"As many times as it ta-"

SMACK

You were sent flying and you hit the ground hard. A fast blow struck you so you half expected to see Luvia standing before you. But instead, it was your Servant. Assassin had her fist raised as she looked down on you.

"That's enough out of you," Chiyome said as she lowered her hand.

"Assassin?" Sakura breathed.

"Forgive him. He's a stupid man," Assassin said as she glanced at Miyu, "His plans and what he intends to do, I agree, they're inexcusable. A desperate and selfish wish that no Magecraft could heal. It's reckless, risky and very, very dangerous. But that would only come to pass should he be left to his own devices. Without counsel and guidance, I foresee it all ending in disaster."

"You don't mince your fucking words," you groaned as you held your cheek.

"That's why you have us Heroic Spirits. To temper you and guide you. You've fought for ten long years, Hans, and I can see you cracking. But don't lose yourself now. I won't allow it, especially after you saved me," Assassin said before she glanced at Miyu, "I know this is much to ask, but would you please hold your decision until the War is over?"

"Knowing this, Assassin, you would still stand by his side?" Luvia questioned her with a frown.

"Yes. From this War to the next, I will fight by his side. Even if he has to summon me once more, I will answer his call. If you can't trust him then trust me at the very least," Assassin requested as she glanced at all those who are present.

Miyu hesitated before she glanced at you. You sighed as you shook your head, "I'm sorry."

Miyu parted her lips to say something but chose not to in the end. The ceiling rumbled and you all looked up to see it come crashing down. You moved grabbed Miyu before raising your barrier while Assassin darted to Luvia and Sakura to get them out of the way. Rocks fell and the ceiling caved in with such force that you could see the sky above you.

You saw the Blackened stand at the edge of the opening he made as Lancer's body fell limp over the wreckage. Sphinxes loomed over the opening and roared before jumping down at the chamber you were all in. Lancer grit her teeth and got up, swinging her scythe as she took on the two monsters descending.

"Lancer?!" Sakura gasped before Luvia grabbed her while Assassin moved to dive down on a Sphinx's back.

You moved rocks out of your surroundings before looking down, "Miyu, are you hurt?"

"I'm fi- Watch out!" Miyu cried out as you turned to see the Blackened Servant stand behind you.

"AEGIS!" you cried out to manifest your shield but with one swing from the man's staff, he was able to shatter it with ease. The Blackened then sent you flying with his open palm, your back smashing into a wall.

"HANS!" Miyu cried out before the Blackened grabbed hold of her.

You coughed out blood as your vision swam. Assassin tried to get at Miyu but two more Sphinxes appeared and overwhelmed her. Sakura and Luvia were running to your side as the Blackened rode on one of his beasts with Miyu in hand. You grunted to see more monsters come in from the hole above.

"Hans, get up! We have to go!" Luvia barked as she pulled you to your feet.

"Wait, we have to get her," you growled as you tried to regain your focus.

"We can't! There's too many of them!" Sakura said as she held you steady, "The tunnel! We have to get in there!"

The three of you tried making your escape but two Sphinxes got in the way, blocking your path. A kunai struck one on the head while another was dragged back by a chain. Lancer and Assassin worked in tandem to bring down as many as possible. You were still surrounded as the two Servants got together and began fighting in earnest.

Assassin called upon black serpents to crush two monsters within its maw before Lancer chopped apart the bodies of Sphinxes that got in her way.

"There's no end to them," Assassin breathed as she watched as her black serpents were torn to sheds.

"That bastard is getting away with Miyu," Lancer hissed as she held her weapon.

"We have to pull back! Lancer, Assassin, withdraw!" Luvia yelled at them.

"We can't. These bastards will collapse the entire passage if someone doesn't keep them busy," Lancer said as she grit her teeth. She then turned to Sakura, "You need to go."

"Lancer?" Sakura blinked in surprise.

"They won't stop until we're all dead. I'll hold them off while I can, just go!" Lancer snarled as she tightened her grip on her scythe.

Assassin glanced at her and hissed, "You can't take them by yourself!"

"Listen, you're the one in better shape between the two of us. If there's more of these things up there then you're the only one who can protect them!" Lancer snapped at Chiyome, "I'm already down an arm! This is fine!"

Chase
​

[] "Assassin, support her. Make sure you two come out alive."
[] "We don't have time. Assassin we need to go get Miyu back!"
[] You need to find Caren so she can transfer one of your Seals to Sakura so Lancer could be extracted later.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] "Assassin, support her. Make sure you two come out alive."

You decided to cut in and speak up, "Assassin, support her. Make sure you two come out alive."

Assassin turned to you and frowned, "Wait, you're going out there on your own?"

"This is the better choice, now back us up!" you barked.

Luvia and Sakura supported you as the three of you made your way to the passage. More Sphinxes arrived and forced the two Servants to face them down. Your group managed to get in the passage as the sounds of battle echoed behind you. If things went sideways, you can always call Assassin back to your side.

Glancing down at Sakura, you found that she was out of Command Seals somehow. You don't know when she ran out but it must be recent She did fight Saber while you took care of Archer so it must be during that time. You sadly didn't have the time to think about it as your group entered the Catacombs beneath the city.

Luvia let you go and activated the gemstones she had placed within to light your path.

"What does the Blackened want with Miyu?" Luvia questioned you with a narrowed look.

"Well, considering that she's the Grail then I suppose it wants to keep her safe and out of our hands for now. Whenever a Servant dies the magical energy that's supposed to go to Miyu is siphoned, calling forth a Blackened in their place," you explained as the three of you moved, "I explained that much to you the last time but that was how Manaka did it in the past. The Blackened are lesser Heroic Spirits but this one we're up against seems a cut above the rest."

"You mean this has something to do with Ayumi?" Sakura asked from your side.

"If Ayumi was Manaka then the Blackened can be controlled but as herself, Ayumi can't do anything. It's like an out of control Machine, it can't be stopped unless we find the source of it. I know where but I'm not sure if that even is the right place anymore," you guessed as you kept walking.

"Whatever the case, we can't afford to let this continue. We have to meet up with Artoria," Sakura said as she walked by your side.

The three of you kept on moving until you reached the end of the tunnel. You were then met with a staircase leading upwards to which you ascended into another mausoleum. Luvia let you go for the moment and knocked down the door, turning to the side to see where the monsters were gathered and the sounds of Assassin fighting alongside Lancer was heard.

You stepped out to see that one particular Sphinx had taken off to the sky. That should be Miyu but how were you going to get to her at this rate?

"We can't catch her now. We have to retreat," you decided as you shook your head.

"We have no choice then," Luvia sighed as she looked up the air before Sakura moved.

"Watch out!" she yelled before pushing Luvia out of the way of a Sphinx descending nearby. You turned as the creature spread its wings and set its claws on fire. You held up your hand and fired flaming darts at its hide before you rolled back to evade its swipe. It snapped at you but you managed to evade it, allowing Luvia the opening to deliver a drop kick right on its head and sending it crashing into the Mausoleum.

Sakura drew her arrows and fired twice, lodging them into the creature's hide and sapping it of its strength.

"Run!" you barked as you fired a signal light into the air.

Hopefully Artoria and Caren can get the memo. You and the others decided to make a break for it to escape the area. Most of the Sphinxes descended towards where Lancer and Assassin were and few took notice of your escape. Why were they fixated on the Servants? Could there be a reason? Was it just their instincts or was there something else guiding them?

"Assassin, how are things?" you asked as you kept running.

"There's many of them. We can only handle so much. Lancer's wound is impeding her full potential but she's been using her Mystic Eyes to compensate. We're fine for now, what about you?"

You turned to see four Sphinxes come for you through the air.

"Could be better," you growled as you kept running. You looked up ahead to reach the end of the cemetery, only for something to appear in the horizon. You immediately a large heavy weight drop in the pit of your stomach once you saw the sword Chiyome wielded in the hands of a man in the distance.

Saber stood up ahead with his weapon drawn, crackling with power as he looked up from beneath his hat.

Almost immediately you felt your heart rate spike as you moved to knock both Luvia and Sakura down. The Servant swung his sword and cut through the air, splitting apart numerous monsters as they all exploded one by one. You felt the air quake above you as you grit your teeth.

Luvia gasped and raised a barrier above your group before she realized what had happened.

Saber stood in the distance before someone else walked past him with an amused look on her face. Minerva revealed herself as she spread her arms.

"Brother! You look like you're in dire need of help," Minerva called out to you as she smiled your way.

"Goddammit," you breathed as you tried getting up.

"Unfortunately you will not get any from me," Minerva chuckled as she pulled the slide of her handgun.

More Sphinxes appeared but they all seemed to gravitate towards Saber. The man pulled Minerva back by her clothes and sliced through one Sphinx before blowing through another with a thrust.

"Be more careful," Saber warned her as she laughed.

"Apologies. I was just excited," Minerva said as you faced her, "Well, Brother? Ready to die now?"

Critical Point​

[] Minerva only wanted you. You'll split off from Luvia and Sakura so they can get to safety. You'll lure this Murder Doll away.
[] You need your Servant now. Use your Command Seal to summon Assassin as she grabs Lancer with her.
[] Buy time. The flare should catch Artoria and Caren's attention. If you can make Minerva dance to your tune, they could save you from getting murdered.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] You need your Servant now. Use your Command Seal to summon Assassin as she grabs Lancer with her.

You responded to her question by stepping forward and raising your hand, "I'm not dying here. With this Command Seal, Assassin, grab Lancer and get here!"

Minerva wasn't even fazed as crimson light bathed the graveyard you were all in just as Assassin appeared with Lancer in hand. The wind burst from where they appeared as Assassin held her sword in her hand. It was her Noble Phantasm which she used to cut apart the Blackened's beams and take out Lancer's arm awhile ago.

Saber's eyes were raised before an amused smile curled upon his lips. However that wasn't all you were surprised about. Lancer was in a dire situation as she was left more wounded than Assassin was. She was bleeding all over and her flesh was rend all over by claw and bite marks. She struggled to stay on her feet as she bled behind Assassin.

"Lancer!" Sakura cried out before Saber moved.

Assassin shoved Lancer back before turning to clash blades with Saber. The ground split and the air howled before a spark appeared, Assassin had managed to parry the blow as Saber staggered back. She moved fast and thrust her sword but Saber managed to defend and counter, his fist went flying towards her face and forced her to bend her back.

Palming the ground, Assassin raised her legs to kick aside Saber's arm before she got down to her feet. Saber continued with the pressure as he struck her with lightning fast blows. Assassin kept a sound mind and took the blows as it rocked her smaller body, each strike had the weight of lightning behind it as she parried with all she had.

Redirecting the blows. transferring their power and looking for the opening she needed, those were the things she needed to do to survive the Storm God's assault.

"Not bad, little Orochi," Saber sneered as she kept swinging from side to side, trying to find an angle through her defense.

Chiyome's eyes widened as she raised her eyes to look at him, "Wha-?"

"I can smell it on you. The odor is overpowering compared to last time. Did you finally become one with that Snake?" Saber snarled as he unleashed a blast of magical energy around him, breaking Chiyome's guard and letting him reach out to her.

He managed to grab her face and pull her close, driving his knee into her stomach before smashing her face in with his elbow. Chiyome gasped as she was kicked into the ground, blasting through a couple of gravestones where she coughed out blood. You grimaced as Saber smirked and lowered his sword before turning behind him.

Sphinxes began to gather in the air. Those that remained numbered at around three dozen by your count and they all dived towards him. His sword began to crackle and shine, lightning danced around him. Saber's eyes shined bright as he gathered his magical energy within his blade as it changed appearance, becoming similar to the blade Chiyome held in her hands.

Divine power surged through his body with enough power to make you buckle on your knees. He faced the approaching Sphinxes and performed a mighty slash.

" Snake Slaying Sword of Heaven(Ame no Habakiri)!!!" Saber roared as he cut through the air, lightning blasting forth and shaving off the Sphinxes out of the air. You watched as the sky was split and the air howled from his strike, being more powerful than what Chiyome ever performed with the sword in her hand.

"You see this, little Orochi? This is how you use that sword," Saber declared as he looked behind him to see Chiyome descend upon him with a kunai in hand. Sparks flew in the air as the two of them clash, pushing each other away before Chiyome threw her kunai at him.

Saber simply swatted it aside as he regarded Assassin before him.

The two of them looked up to see some Sphinxes survive the Noble Phantasm. They turned away from one another to cut down the beasts coming their way. You watched Lancer get up and try and defend Sakura against the monsters. Minerva used her magecraft to stun and knock back the Sphinx which landed on her side.

Assassin cut down the Sphinx she was fighting before turning to face Saber. She kicked off the ground as the man turned and took the bottle on his hip before raising it. The air was filled with droplets of alcohol, covering the space between Chiyome and Saber with the stench of sake.

"Saber, thin the herd," Minerva ordered as she smiled before Saber stepped past Assassin.

You and Assassin tensed up as he went past her. He was targeting someone else?!

You and Chiyome cried out loud at the same time.

"LANCER!"
"LANCER!"

Medusa turned just in time to see Saber plunge Ame no Habakiri into her heart.

STAB

In the midst of the chaos the Sphinxes created, Minerva saw the chance to pick off Lancer while she was busy defending her Master and Luvia. However...

"ASSASSIN!" Lancer roared as her mouth was filled with blood. Her eyes shined and Saber raised his eyebrow to feel his body turn stiff.

Mystic Eyes of Petrification(Cybele)

Saber was kept in place as Lancer's body began to break apart into golden light. This was her last act for her carelessness, if she could at least take down this bastard with her then this would have been worth it!

You watched Saber's extremities turn to stone but he could recover at any moment. This was your chance to make this really hurt for him! Saber's body began to surge with power, he was about to break free!

In the Midst of Despair
​

[] Have Chiyome curse him with Omen of the Great God Ibuki
[] Have Chiyome cut him with Ame no Habakiri

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

Use a second Command Seal to make this attack potent?
[] Yes
[] No