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Chapter Text

Servant: Flynn, Savior of Tokyo

Origin: SMT4

Class: Saber

Alignment: Balanced Good

Strength: B

Endurance: B

Agility: A

Mana: A

Luck: B

Noble Phantasm: EX

Skills

Magic Resistance A: Cancel spells of A-Rank or below, no matter what High-Thaumaturgy it is. In practice, the Servant is untouchable to modern magi, so it would not be an exaggeration to title the Servant a 'Magus Killer'. Flynn gained large resistance to even spell cast by Divine Spirits, making even high grade magecraft insignificant against him as a result.

Demonic Whisper B: A special version of High Speed Divine Words. In the Age of Miracle, the language of the gods exist again as a unified language and system of spellcasting. This peculiar skill represent the imprinting of those words inside the soul of human, giving him the ability to use them. The rank of this skill does not designate only the speed of spellcasting, but also the power one can display using them. At rank B, it let the user use every spell up to the third tier of power.

In the case of Flynn this skill is originally rank A, but as a Saber his spellcasting ability are lowered.

Herald of the Middle Path A: A skill similar to Counter Hero, but affecting the alignment rather than one degree of heroism, crippling those of Lawful and Chaotic alignment. At rank A, it reduce all the opponent's parameters by two rank. The effect is lessened in case of Good aligned opponent, reducing the parameters by one rank instead.

Charisma B: Having B Rank in this Skill is sufficient to lead a nation as its King/Queen. The morale of military forces he or she commands is extremely high. Flynn commanded the respect of men and demons alike, to the point of being unanimously called Savior of Tokyo.

Noble Phantasm

Pact of two lives: Masakado's Blade

Type: Anti-Unit

Rank: C

The sword of Flynn, wielded by him in two lives. It is in truth not a weapon to trike down one's enemy, but rather the proof of the contract between Masakado and Flynn to protect Tokyo and mankind, Masakado's own shadow manifested as a blade. It can only be used by Flynn alone, and it's true name and power can only be released in Tokyo, where both it's rank and classification change.

Forever we shall protect our home: Masakado's Shadow

Type: Anti-Country

Rank: EX

The true form of Masakado's Katana, and the true power of the contract between Flynn and the guardian deity of Tokyo, usable only if multiple conditions are met (The true name release must take place in Tokyo, the city itself must be at risk, the threat must be above the power of Flynn alone). By releasing it's true name, the titanic protector emerge from the city itself. Since Masakado is Tokyo itself, his power is unaffected by the decline of Mystery but directly fueled by the Counter Force. Easily capable of resisting nuclear weaponry and capable of cursing any enemy of man, it is a creature of pure power controlled only by Flynn's will. However, Flynn must sacrifice his own life to summon his might, his spiritual core becoming the heart of Masakado.

Like: Fishing, picnic.

Dislike: Fighting between friends, name-repeating demon.

Wish upon the Grail: Undo the death of his friend Issachar.

Servant: Gaston, Crusader of the people.

Origin: SMT4 Apocalypse

Class: Lancer

Alignment: Lawful Good

Strength: A

Endurance: C

Agility: A

Mana: D

Luck: D

Noble Phantasm: A

Skills

Magic Resistance B:Cancel spells with a chant below three verses. Even if targeted by High-Thaumaturgy and Greater Rituals, it is difficult for them to be affected. Living into a new Age of Miracle born from technology, Gaston was used to fight supernatural and faced many magic attacks, gaining a great resistance to it.

God Slayer B: A 'plus' modifier is gained when attacking Divine Spirits, wraiths, and Servants with the Divinity Skill. Lancer gained this skill by helping to defeat an actual Divinity.

Bravery B: The ability to negate mental interference such as pressure, confusion and fascination. It also has the bonus effect of increasing melee damage.

Noble Phantasm

Spear of Michael

Type: Anti-Unit

Rank: B (Originally A)

The Spear of Michael,"The spear that brought down the Devil", is a powerful divine construct originally wielded by the archangel Michael and later entrusted into Gaston hands to kill the great serpent Shesha. It was later broken by Gaston himself to prove his resolution to fight not for a superior power, but the sake of the people.

Originally the weapon greatly amplified the skill Miracle and serve and possessed extremely strong power against enemy opposing christian faith, however since Gaston gave up his faith into God, most of the weapon power is sealed away.

However the spear still boast strong anti-dragon properties as reference to the fact that the Devil, in christian lore, is often represented as a dragon when Michael strike him down.

Gungnir

Type: Anti-Unit

Rank: A

The spear of Odin, chief god of the norse pantheon. Gaston fought the Divine Spirit twice, and upon seeing his growth during their second confrontation, Odin wagered his spear on the result, leaving it behind as he was vanquished. To release its true name, Gaston must first break (or destroy in any way, including using it as a Broken Phantasm) the Spear of Michael.

A divine construct imbued with the concept of "No matter how many time it is dodged, it will strike the enemy". This property work at it's best it is thrown, something Gaston rarely do since it does not fit into his fighting style. However, combined with Gaston own skills it become a weapon "Capable of piercing through any kind of defense" when it's true name is released, creating an inescapable strike when combined with his first ability.

Despite the spear not possessing inherent power over lightning and Gaston not possessing any magical training, as a Servant Gaston can call upon thunder when releasing the true name of the spear, giving him the equivalent of Mana Burst (Lightning) A with half the mana cost. This is because having fallen the chief god who ruled over lightning in the new Age of Miracle, Gaston can call upon his Authority when using the spear.

Like: Friendly rivalry, fighting for a cause.

Dislike: Condescending gods, fanatics.

Wish upon the Grail: To prevent his brother's early death.

Servant: Nozomi, Queen of the Fairies

Origin: SMT4 Apocalypse

Class: Archer

Alignment: Balanced Good

Strength: C

Endurance: C

Agility: B

Mana: A

Luck: A+

Noble Phantasm: EX

Skills

Fairy Queen A: a skill unique to Nozomi, coming from carrying the essence of a mother goddess and being charged with the protection of the Fairy kind. A composite skill comprised of Goddess's Divine Core, Magic Resistance, Independent Action, Protection of the Fairies and Territory Creation.

Marksmanship A: a skill representing all-round shooting techniques, which includes quick drawing and trick shooting by means of firearms. Nozomi is an expert among expert in the use of firearm and is able to obtain near-supernatural effects from their usage.

Clairvoyance C: a visual ability that is also called 'Eagle Eye'. Simply looking from a high location is sufficient to fully survey a town and search for enemies. It connotes superior visual perception and dynamic occipital capture, such as to supplement the long-range aiming of projectile weapons.

Noble Phantasm

O Land, Become Home of the Fae: Fairy Forest.

Rank: EX

Type: Labyrinth

The living manifestation of Nozomi's dream and mission. An immense forest of giant trees, enchanted springs and lakes. The forest act as a giant maze where "One cannot find its way unless the Fairies allow it", and Phantasmal Species of the Fairy Kind can freely manifest in it to serve as a guardians. Because Nozomi possess Authority as the Queen of all Fairies, even peculiar spirits like the Lady of the Lake may answer her call, as well as Noble Phantasm linked to Fairies or created by them. Inside the Forest, Nozomi's Authority is elevated to the rank of a Mother Goddess, making her immortal as long as any Fairy still live inside the forest and giving her a combat boost equivalent to Mad Enhancement of Rank A without any demerit. However she cannot stay in the forest, as her Servant container cannot hold her increased Divinity for long.

This Noble Phantasm must be prepared in a place where "Nature is strong'' for at least a whole week. Once it is done, a veil leading to it can be manifested anywhere Nozomi wishes. It is not a Reality Marble, but instead a "Place belonging to the Reverse Side of the World". As it is separated from the World of Man, it is almost impossible to destroy from the outside: one must attack it from the inside, or tear it apart with something capable of damaging the World. In that regard, it possess similar defensive property as another Noble Phantasm of Fairy origin.

Like: photography, teaching young people.

Dislike: Betrayal, authoritative motherly figures.

Wish upon the Grail: The eternal safeguard of Fairies.

Servant: Jonathan, Vessel of the Heavenly Chariot

Origin: SMT4

Class: Rider

Alignment: Lawful Good

Strength: C

Endurance: B

Agility: B

Mana: A

Luck: D

Noble Phantasm: A+

Skills

Riding A+: all vehicles and all creatures up to the level of Phantasmal Beast and Divine Beast can be used as mounts. However, that does not apply to members of the Dragon Kind.

Magic Resistance B: cancel spells with a chant below three verses. Even if targeted by High-Thaumaturgy and Greater Rituals, it is difficult for them to be affected.

Divinity D: being the host of the Heavenly Chariot, Jonathan possess a strong divine essence. However, it is actively suppressed when summoned as Servant.

High-Speed Divine Word B: the ability to speak magical incantations at an accelerated speed. By using a language from the Age of Gods, High-Thaumaturgy can be cast at the speed of Single-Action spells.

Noble Phantasm

Heavenly Seraphic Chariot, Merkabah

Type: Anti-Army/Anti-Self

Rank: A+

A Noble Phantasm of metamorphosis, born from the sacrifice of Jonathan to give birth to the Heavenly Chariot. Even though is soul should have disappeared in the process, he survived inside the Divine Spirit, ultimately returning back to his friends and uniting with his chaotic counterpart to save the world.

It can be used in two distinct way. The first one is a partial use of the Noble Phantasm, a summon of the Chariot as a spiritual vessel acting as a throne and a combat chariot, the equivalent of riding a Divine Beast of the highest order. Its defensive abilities are superior to that of a Dragon and are furthermore increased by divine protection. The chariot himself release large magical energy while moving capable of destroying large areas simply by passing by, its primary mean of offense.

The second one consist in incarnating Merkabah into Jonathan's own body, a metamorphosis into a pseudo Divine Spirit. The pseudo Divine Spirit possess offensive and defensive capabilities superior to that of its chariot form while retaining his mobility and having access to powerful supernatural powers. This transformation consume immense amounts of magical energy but can be reversed. However, each transformation increase the rank of Divinity by one rank. Once it reach A, it is not possible to retain a human mind anymore and the metamorphosis become permanent.

Like: loyalty, compassion.

Dislike: selfishness, charming spell.

Wish upon the Grail: World peace.

Servant: Kazuya Minegishi, Abel, The King of Bel.

Origin: Devil Survivor

Class: Caster

Alignment: Balanced Chaotic

Strength: E-C

Endurance: E-B

Agility: E-C

Mana: E-EX

Luck: E-E

Noble Phantasm: E-EX

Skills

Territory Creation E-EX: a Caster-class Skill. It is the Skill to build a special terrain that is advantageous to oneself as a magus, such as for the purpose of collecting mana. Granted as the irregular Rank of EX, it allow the creation of the King's Gate, the legendary Tower of Babel.

Demonic Fusion E-EX: a variant of Item Construction, specifically oriented toward the manipulation of true Ether to form conceptual being. By merging the mana of the World and True Ether of the Reverse Side, the holder of the skill can create familiars of higher order imitating the identity, power and history of various Phantasmal Being. At this rank, even Divine Spirit may be recreated following this process.

Evocation E-EX: a magecraft that evokes spiritual bodies from the past, or possibly from the future. Abel, as King of the demons possessing the title "Bel", can freely summon any demons carrying the name, as their essence are part of his own.

Demon King'sCrown E-EX: a skill showing the true nature of Abel as a Demon King, bearing in him the essence of a monstrously powerful demon that was said to rival God. A composite skill comprised of Monstrous Strength, Magic Resistance, Charisma, Independent Action, High-Speed Divine Words, Mana Burst, etc.

Noble Phantasm

Genesis of the Demon King: Lockdown of Seven Days.

Type: Demonic

Rank: E-EX

A Noble Phantasm that reflect the growth of Kazuya Minegishi from an ordinary human carrying the soul of Abel to the Demon King of Bel capable of rivaling God. He is initially quite weak, all of his skills and Noble Phantasm sealed and his stats reduced to E, but every day, his power grows. The dawn of the seven days, his power reaches its maximum and is said to surpass those of the six other class united.

O Nature, swear to not hurt this One: Blessing of Beldr

Type: Anti-Self

Rank: B

A Noble Phantasm belonging to the norse god Beldr that later became a demon, assimilated by Abel during the third day of his ascension. A Noble Phantasm of absolute protection, making immune to "Any harm from being and things of Gaia", with the sole exception of the Devil's Fuge, the plant named mistletoe. Any attack from something wrapped in mistletoe will ignore the protection.

Flames of Heavenly Punishment: Fire of Gomorrah

Type: Anti-Army

Rank: B+

A Noble Phantasm belonging to the great demon Belial, assimilated by Abel the sixth day of his ascension. The divine fire of punishment toward sinners wielded by God and kept by Belial after his fall to demon-hood. This Noble Phantasm take the form of pillar of flames falling from the sky, dealing greatly increased damage toward Evil Servants and Sinners. Even used by a demon, the flames of punishment still carry the wrath of God.

Dark Hand of the Lord of Chaos: Death Flies

Type: Anti-Country

Rank: A

A Noble Phantasm representing the Authority of Belzebuth over filth, maggot and flies, as well as the forth plague of Egypt, assimilated by Abel the seventh day of his ascension. A curse of pure calamity, releasing thousand of flies devouring the flesh, mana and soul of anything they come across. A regular human being is instantly dissolved, Servants will be killed within mere minutes. Heroes with a history of defeating curses possess an innate resistance toward this attack, but even those Servants can't completely negate it's effect and will suffer heavy damage.

Tower of Vanity reaching the heaven: Tower of Babel

Type: Fortress

Rank: EX

The territory belonging to the rightful King of Bel, the ultimate privilege given to Abel the seventh day of his ascension. An immense Tower swirling with power reaching the very Heaven, bleeding it of its mana to reinforce itself, rising higher and higher as the time pass. The higher it goes, the more mana it siphon and give to its master Abel. Furthermore the Gate of the Tower act as a voracious black hole, a jaw of avidity capable of swallowing anything and anyone coming too close. Abel himself is the only one capable of entering the tower harmlessly. The density of Ether inside the Tower being enough to kill any mortal following even if the gate does not destroy him, it is not possible to shelter a Master. Servants have to pass an Endurance and Magic Resistance check to survive the passing of the Gate, but does not suffer any penalties inside the Tower itself.

Like: Cain, programing.

Dislike: Mischievous gods, doomsday cults.

Wish upon the Grail: To save Cain from his eternal reincarnation.

Servant: Toki, Killer of the Arrogant

Origin: SMT4 Apocalypse

Class: Assassin

Alignment: Chaotic Neutral

Strength: D

Endurance: E

Agility: A+

Mana: D

Luck: D

Noble Phantasm: D

Skills

Presence Concealment A: hides one's presence as a Servant. Suitable for spying. It is possible to disappear and become almost impossible to be detected. However, efficiency will decrease once preparations to attack are taken.

Disengage A: bonus effect of returning battle conditions to what they were at the beginning of the match (1st turn) and restores the condition of this Skill to the initial value. At the same time, it forcibly releases some of the bad status ailments inflicted on the user of this Skill.

Mental Pollution A: makes it possible to shut out any mental interference Thaumaturgy due to possessing a distorted mentality. However, at the same time, it becomes impossible to come to an understanding with individuals that do not possess an equivalent rank of Mental Pollution. Toki's devotion and mind of steel warped by her temporary possession from the goddess Innana. If Toki's Master is considered "strong" by her standards, she will obey beyond reason, but should he fail to meet those criteria and she meet someone fulfilling them, she will betray without hesitation to serve that person.

Noble Phantasm

For the sake of Strength, Death to the Tyrant

Type: Anti-Unit

Rank: C++

A secret technique born from Toki's life and accomplishment, the killing of a God for the sake of one's quest for power, not the power to dominate or protect other, but purely "To reach a higher personal strength without limits''. A high risk, high reward Noble Phantasm whereupon his activation Toki announce her presence and intention, making it impossible to surprise an opponent.

This technique of assassination is an instantaneous attack comparable to simply slitting the throat of ''an enemy that cannot conceive his own defeat". This Noble Phantasm consist in a single slash combined with a mental effect preventing the target to recognize the attack as "Something that can kill'', making them incapable to react to it until the blow have been dealt. It's efficiency is increased proportionally to the gap in stats between Toki and her target, and further increased by the target own pride in their skill and power, and even more increased if the target is "one who rule over other". As such, it is an incredibly vicious attack against all warrior-king/queen and magus despite the attack not targeting them specifically. Instinct does not protect against this Noble Phantasm since "Pride overcome the Instinct" of the target, and neither does Bravery. However, mental interference skill like Mental pollution and Vitrification give a bonus check against the mental effect, and leave upon success a window of opportunity "just before the blade strike". Mad Enhancement, in function of the rank and effect, may entirely negate the mental effect.

Like: Strong Master, Sweets.

Dislike: Restrictive and authoritarian people, weakness.

Wish upon the Grail: Reincarnation.

Chapter Text

Tohsaka Tokiomi inspected the room once last time. The door was closed, and the only light came from the two torches behind himself. Kotominei Risei and Kirei were by his side, looking at his preparations silently. The circle was perfect, the catalyst placed on the wooden pedestal. Everything was ready. Everything was perfect. Any traces of worry washed away by calm mastery, the pride of a magus curbed by decades of experience. The summoning was near. Just a little more to wait for his magical energy to reach his peak, around one hour after midnight. There, it was time.

''A base of silver and steel. A fondation of stone and the archduke of contracts. My ancestor, and great master, Schweinorg.''

To reach the Root. Such was the goal of all Magi, the accomplishment so few ever obtained. Among them the great Sorcerer Kischur Zelretch Schweinorg, the Wizard Marshall, the Kaleidoscope. A man who reached the Root and obtained the Second Magic, whose very knowledge helped to create the Holy Grail War. And by using the power of the Grail, he would reach the Root too.

''Fill, fill, fill, fill, fill. Repeat five time. But break each when they are filled. A wall to block the falling wind. The gate of all four directions close. From the Crown, come forth and follow the road to the Millennium Kingdom.''

The words came effortlessly, practiced to perfection. Not a single uncertainty, not a single mistake. All of his efforts from the past years have been for this single instant. He was to summon the first of all heroes. The king of heroes, Gilgamesh. Such powerful being could only come under one of the three knight Class, he was sure of it. Which one would doubtlessly not matter much.

''Heed my words. His will creates your body, and your sword shall follow His destiny. If you heed the Grail's call and obey Order and reason, answer my summoning.''

The energy was flowing thought him, a strain he was expecting and familiar with as his magic circuits were pushed to their limits. It was coming. The summoning was coming to it's completion as light shone from the circle on the ground. Yet... Something was wrong. Very wrong.

''I hereby swear. I will be all He judge good in the eternal world. I will be the disposer of all He judge evil in the eternal world.''

His vision blurred, a sudden pain aching in his back. Blood on his shirt, blood on his hands. The room. Everything was debris and dust, the catalyst absent, Risei and Kirei nowhere to see. Tokiomi clenched the hand carrying the Command Seals as he fell to his knees.

''Clad with the Great Trinity, come forth from the circle of biding...

"Servant of the Almighty". No, it was not right, it was not the correct words he had to say! Mobilizing every ounce of his will, the magus articulated the last words, pushing away the pressure in his mind.

''… Guardian of the Scales!''

The surging light blinded him before everything went dark...

Tokiomi awakened with a panicked breath before his mental habits kicked in, repressing the emotions and leaving place to logic. Dark. Everything was dark, with the exception of a small campfire shedding light on immediate surrounding. Sitting up, the magus tried to make sense of what happened before. He was about to summon Gilgamesh, and then... No. Breathing according to his martial art training, Tokiomi examined his recent memories. He was about to summon Gilgamesh. But the incantation he used... It was not correct. It was as if he have been under a spell with the objectyive to make him fail. But who could have done such a thing? Furthermore, was quite certain that Kirei and Risei were with him. Yet before falling unconscious, he clearly remembered that they were not present. The magus touched the floor faintly lightened by the campfire. Dusty, irregular. He could feel the fresh air of night despite the crackling flames. He was not in the Church basement, that much was certain. He could not comprehend. How could thing turn out like this? What happened?

''It seem you are awake, Master. Do not worry, we are in a safe place.''

Stunned, Tokiomi raised head to face the gaze of a young man with sharp green eyes and long dark hair styled in ponytail. The voice was mature however, and he estimated the person facing him to have entered adulthood. But his words, clear and loud, registered at the same time the magus felt the connection. That young man was without a doubt his Servant.

''You are not Gilgamesh.'' Said the magus with a bit of disappointment.

''I am not. But I hope you will find satisfaction in me nonetheless, Master.''

The politeness and respect in his Servant's voice reassured Tokiomi. At the very least, he summoned a Servant with proper attitude. Examining the young man more attentively, Tokiomi noted his dark blue jacket, light top, white pants and boots. A katana was hanging by his side, visibly pointing the Servant to be a samurai of sort. On one hand, summoning a Heroic Spirit of the land meant he would additional stats boost and possibly more Noble Phantasm. On the other hand, the clearly technological device attached to the young man left arm could only indicate a recent Heroic Spirit, one whose Mystery, and by essence overall strength, could only be inferior to that of more ancient heroes. Logic would dictate he obtained a Saber, but he had to ask. Some heroes were in their life as proficient in magecraft and weapons after all, and could be summoned in multiple classes.

''My Servant, would you make me the honor of unveiling your identity?''

''Of course, Master.'' Acknowledged the young man, kneeling in front of Tokiomi. ''I am Flynn, Savior of Tokyo and samurai of the Eastern Kingdom of Mikado. For the duration of this war, I will serve you as Saber, Master.''

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

Advancing at a steady path, his Servant in spirit form, Tokiomi noticed that the buildings were less and less damaged as he went further into the city, some houses even seemingly intact. How odd. But seeing it more clearly as the sun rose, it looked like a lot of damage were made not by time, but through artificial means. What could have happened that everything would be empty, and so desolate? A sudden throbbing in his back, a phantom pain. Why did it hurt here? He could not remember being wounded at all... His memories were fuzzy. Everything before the summoning, blurred. It wasn't normal. A splitting headache was pointing every time he tried to pierce through the veil.

''Oi oi, where do ya think yur goin' uh?''

A rough voice derailed his thoughts as someone, no, something humanoid emerged from adjacent alleys. His brain almost stopped. It wasn't possible. Creatures like those...

''Hey, lost yur tong mate? Been while since tha last meal, I'm damn hungry...'' Said another, revealing dangerously sharp looking teeth in a cruel smile.

Five. There was five humanoids surrounding him, daylight revealing their full inhuman nature. About three meters tall with red skin, three horns on their head, two little black and a big white one, they all wore blue short clothes revealing the unnaturally large muscles of their arms and legs. But what Tokiomi was worried about was not the large and sharp steel machete they each had in hand. It was their very existence. Oni. Those monsters were Oni, a type of Phantasmal Species. But their existence should not be possible anymore in the world of Man!

''Leave my Master alone, Onis. He is not yours to feast on.'' Declared Saber, appearing in front of Tokiomi.

The creatures backed of, apparently surprised, before gripping their machetes tighter.

''Oi, oi, we're just kiddin' mate. Didn't know yu had a Famed with ya. No hard feels right?'' Asked the first Oni, cautious.

The complete switch of attitude from the creature surprised Tokiomi a bit. Especially what seemed to be more than fear: did they recognized Saber in some way? They called him "Famed" just now...

''Hey, I'm talkin' to ya man! Say somethin' dam it!'' Yelled the monster.

The magus understood he had to take advantage of the presence of Saber now, or they would likely attack. He had fully faith into his Servant to defend him, but it was better to be safe than sorry.

''Though I have no business with you beasts, I am willing to overlook your actions if you provide me information.'' Said the Toshaka, as elegant as he should be.

''What da... You insultin' me man? Might not been tha smart kid in tha bunch, but I got ma pride!'' Roared the leader of the pack, clearly angered by the terms employed.

''Are you declining my proposition? Then, Saber...''

''Oi, oi, stop, not sayin' I wanna die mate!'' The Oni said hastily, seeing his peers slowly back down under the steel gaze of Saber. ''Just 'd like to get somethin' out that, ya know? How 'bout a deal?''

Tokiomi was about to dismiss the notion when Saber spoke softly, too low for the Onis to hear.

''Master, I believe negotiating with those demons can be beneficial. Do not worry: should they ask too much, I will drive them away.''

The idea maybe had merit, pondered the magus. Seeing the fear of the Onis before Saber defintively indicated that they were no match for the Servant. He had no idea what a Phantasmal Specie would ask for, but in the worst case, Saber would simply make short work of them.

''Very well then. Name your price.''

''Hehe... Then... How 'bout a piece of ya spirit? Been feelin' down lately...''

It was suspiciously simple in appearance, but asking for "a piece of spirit" could actually mean anything from eating his soul to taking a droplet of magical energy. Looking at Saber, he saw the Servant lightly nod and decided to trust him.

''Alright. I agree to give you a little bit of magical energy.'' Said the magus.

''He he he, I'll take it.'' Grinned the Oni, extending his clawed hand.

A violent pain flared within Tokiomi as he felt a large amount of Od escape from his body in the form of a blue mist that converged inside the monster's hand, before it was swallowed whole with a satisfied grunt.

''Haaa, feel good man. But not 'nough yet. What 'bout some Maccas, heh? Sumthing like, 50?''

''I am sorry, but it is impossible. Look at my poor Master: he does not even have enough to buy real clothes. Wouldn't it be cruel to ask that much to a beggar in carnival costume?''

The magus almost choked himself when Saber said those words in a pleading manner, in total contrast with his previous attitude. And before he could even ask what have passed through his Servant's head, the monster's reply stunned him.

''For real? Man, ya really got tha' short stick, feel bad. I'm not that a baddie, won't ask that.''

''Actually, I am sure you could help my Master getting dressed. Times are really hard currently, and it is even harder to find anything decent for free.''

''Oi buddy that some gut ya have, I'm tha' one in need here! Bar ain't cheap at all!'' Protested the Oni, visibly hesitant.

''Please, think of the good reputation it will give you. There is no doubt women would fall all over someone rich enough to be this generous.'' Insisted Saber.

The whole scene was surreal. On one side, Saber seemed to alternate every possible rhetorical way to... To extort, there was no other way to put it, extort what seemed to be money from the Oni, while the four other demons in the back were visibly starting to agree with his arguments! After five good minutes of nonsensical banter, the Oni reached inside his clothes and took out a pile of odd shaped golden coins, handing them to Saber.

''There ya go. Next Lilim ya see, tell her I was tha man, ok?'' Grinned the demon like he was the one receiving money, before pointing a direction. ''Church's that way. Kill some dumbass angels if ya can.''

The demon left with his kin, humming happily. It took Tokiomi a good minute to try to sort out what happened before finally asking, stunned.

''How?''

''Master Flynn have plenty of experience in demon negotiation. You should have seen him when he managed to squeeze out money from Loki!'' Announced with pride the artificial voice from the gauntlet, confusing the magus even more. ''Anyway, the Oni told us that angels patrol in the vicinity of the Kanda Catholic Chuch. I suggest you to be careful.''

''Angels?'' Whispered Tokiomi, unable to fully process the implications.

''There are rumors about a priest still living there, according to the Oni.'' Said Saber, pocketing the money he just got. ''He might be the one to hold the answers you search.''

The prospect of finally finding someone able to explain him something, anything about this absurd situation, washed away anything else and the Tohsaka decided to focus on this perspective, striking his chin.

''Very well. I am satisfied with your handling of the situation, Saber, despite your... Unorthodox methods. Lead the way.''

''Of course, Master.'' Nodded the samurai.

An agonizing roar echoed through the packed small houses in ruin, amplifying the pain inside it even more. Blood splattered on the wall before the stones were crushed under the massive corpse of an elephant headed demon.

''Humph, disgusting. When will demons learn not to stand against my magnificence?''

The disdainful voice coming from the cloud of dust spoke to no one in particular, but echoed strong nonetheless. A gust of wind blew away the dirt, revealing a tall young man with spiky dark brown hair and eyes. His tight pure white clothes, from boots to col, were crowned with a cape displaying a large gray cross, gold and dark outlining his col and cape respectively.

''Very impressive, Lancer. Your summoning maybe was a miscalculation, but one that proved quite fortunate.''

The light blond haired man who just spoke in a smug tone came out of the shadows, examining the corpse under his eyes with cold, methodical green eyes. His navy scholar coat, just as impeccable as his Servant's own clothes, was completed by white gloves, black pants and black shoes, further cementing his noble status.

''Of course. What would have accomplished some faraway knight compared to the best spearman this country ever saw?'' Replied Lancer, his pride matching that of his Master.

''Has my previous Servant been half as competent, I would have won easily...'' Started the man before suddenly leaning forward.

His hand went to mouth in a spasm of pain that was quickly controlled and hidden as a closer inspection of the corpse. The dead demon was large, or more accurately fat, with blue skin covered with a brown skirt and golden bracelet. A single, cyclopean eye covered his elephantine head, now empty and glazed.

''This is quite interesting. For Phantasmal Species to come to existence once more is rather strange, considering the mana in the atmosphere match that of the modern era.'' Analyzed the magus in an erudite, almost teaching tone, and yet genuinely curious. ''It should be way too low to sustain their existence, and yet they are here... ''

There was a silence, quickly broken with a snap of finger from the blond man.

''Let us go, Lancer. People of our status deserve better than those ruins to rest in.''

''Humph, I cannot agree more, Master.''

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

Leaving the church with a last goodbye to the supervisor, Tokiomi was welcomed by Saber sitting on the ground. The angel was nowhere in view, however it was surely still around protecting the place.

''Master, what do you plan to do from now on?''

''Find a stronghold. Once it is done, we will start to investigate. Any clue concerning our opponents will grant us an advantage.''

The samurai nodded, before activating with a touch his mysterious gauntlet.

''Burrough?''

''My scanning detected large concentrations of power in Tokyo.'' Said the artificial voice.

''Where are they located?'' Asked Saber.

''The first one is at the Tokyo Dome, not far northwest of our position. The second covers the heart of Chiyoda on the south. The third is around Shinjuku in the west, the fourth at Ropongi in the southwest. The last one is the church we are in.''

A map was displayed on the screen of the gauntlet, with the designed areas in a crimson red contrasting the shade of black and white making the rest of the picture.

''Can it indicate where does the fight we heard happened?'' Half-skeptically asked Tokiomi.

The picture moved a little and zoomed on a crossroad on the east of the church. It was further than the magus thought, meaning the tremor was likely the result of a Noble Phantasm, suggesting it was at least an Anti-Army one. Fortunately Saber seemed to possess a power at least equivalent in his Noble Phantasm Masakado's Shadow. But its condition of activation and exact properties were still unknown to him, so fighting blindly was out of the question.

''Master, to create a stronghold by yourself would likely set us as targets easily.'' Suddenly said the samurai.

''How so, Saber?''

''Allow me, Master Tohsaka.'' Interfered the ghost in circuit. ''Your magical signature is far to recognizable as human. Any barrier you will set would attract demons and blow our cover.''

''I did not think about that.'' Gracefully admitted the magus. ''The habit of keeping the masquerade I suppose. What do you propose, Saber?''

''I will ask the demons.''

As reluctant as Tokiomi was at the idea, his logical thinking had to agree. Demons were the only inhabitants of the world now, father Mansemat excepted. Mansemat specifically precised that the angels would not interfere in the Holy Grail War, and it included sheltering. And with the... Peculiar display of convincing skills Saber had shown earlier, perhaps it would end with a beneficial result.

''Then I trust you to guide us to a safe place.''

The buildings were a lot less damaged in the area they were walking in, something that Lancer's Master was quite satisfied to see, unlike his Servant whose mood seemed to have been locked into a perpetual haughty frown. Because for Kayneth El-Melloi Archibald, it meant finding a place whose current state would be worthy of his noble ascendance and talent to transform into an impenetrable base of operation. But for Lancer, the other reason of his Master's smile was the source of his discontentment.

''To think demonkind treat this place as its own once more. Disgusting.'' Spat the Heroic Spirit.

Indeed, some demons were present in the streets, strolling like they were the human citizens of old. A pair of little snowmen with blue hat tried to outdo each other into making the biggest ice stalagmite. A blue-skinned, ox-headed creature carrying an axe on his back was looking at a run down stand selling what seemed to be alcohol, held by a large demonic baboon with a red face visibly trying to interest him in the merchandise. A little further, what seemed to be sentient black ooze was greedily dissolving... something still moving, but now unidentifiable.

''On the contrary, Lancer, it is a grand opportunity for an accomplished researcher such as I.'' Self-congratulated the magus, eyes half-closed analyzing everything he could see. ''Once this strange Grail War circumstances clarified and a base established, there may even be some time to experiment before fighting our first opponent.''

''Humph. I only need to know how to kill these creatures. Now...''

Lancer made a dry hit on the ground with the shaft of his spear, the sound reverberating far more than it should have. Instantly the demons looking at the two took a renewed interest into what they were currently doing before, the blue-skinned ox seemingly very happy to buy an abnormal amount of alcohol before retreating into an alley, leaving the red-faced monkey with a large pile of oddly shaped golden coins which drawn Kayneth interest.

''Those are Macca, Master, the currency of demons.'' Answered Lancer to the silent question. ''Any kind of business conducted with those foul creatures require them.''

''So they even developed a functional economy.'' Wondered the magus aloud, already deducting. ''Yet it wouldn't make sense for Phantasmal to rely on any form of currency that does not fulfill utility beyond basic exchanges. They must serve another purpose...''

''Precisely, dear future client.''

Lancer instantly pointed his spear from where the nasal voice came from, the tip almost gouging the eyes of the demon who just appeared in front of him. Smaller than both Lancer and his Master, the demon didn't seem to mind the weapon pointed toward him and simply bowed. Kayneth observed the Phantasm with a surprisingly professional appearance in front of his Servant, intrigued. About a meter and half only in height, it was wearing a typical brown business costume with white tights and black heels. A pair of small bat wings emerged from his back and a discreet cat tail kept still behind, but its demonic features were easily discernible with its green skin, pointed ears, large irregular teeth coming from its closed mouth and fully amber eyes.

''But where are my manners. I am Melchom of the Fallen Race, paymaster of Hell and investment banker of the Devil Auction. It is a pleasure to treat with a human once more, especially one capable enough to control a demon of the Famed Race. May I learn your name?''

On guard, Kayneth looked down on the Phantasmal. He knew exactly what kind of being was in front of him, even though it wasn't human: devious, snide and greedy. However, even the lowest snake had its use, and this one was, at least, respectful.

''You are addressing Kayneth El-Melloi, the ninth patriarch of the Archibald family. What business do you seek with me?''

''The Devil Auction is ready to make you an offer. We are always seeking new partners in affair, and a fine gentleman of your stature would surely understand the benefit of an association.''

''Humpf, of course demons always seeks new victims to plunder.'' Sneered Lancer.

''Should you open an account in the Devil Auction, we will offer you platinum rank membership and ten thousand Macca to cover your first expenses.'' Said the demon, opening the bag with a dollar symbol hanging on his belt to extract a piece of paper. ''As platinum ranked member, you will have priority and special treatment in our services, including but not limited to the eponymous Devil Auction, but also obtaining rare and powerful materials, assistance in demon negotiation, and information gathering.''

Kayneth stroke his chin, pensive. All of the demon's talking gave him valuable information about the inner workings of this twisted Tokyo, and the way the Phantasm were organized. While he didn't know the exact value of Macca, the sum of money seemed to be quite important. But it was the other possibilities that attracted his attention. If Devil Auction was capable of locating someone like him in such short period of time, it meant their collaboration could lead him to gain an invaluable head start in the Holy Grail War... Memories of a quaking hotel were crushed in his mind. He would never lose to such paltry, cowardly tricks again! This time, he would not treat it as some contest to gain martial prestige. This time, he would not make the same mistakes! Taking the contract, the magus attentively read it all. Extremely clear, the contract didn't seem to contain any kind of loophole, though he read with sharp concentration each phrasing and words.

''Very well, I accept your offer.''

The Melchom's smile widened before handing an expansive-looking pen. Kayneth couldn't feel anything strange, and as far as his expert eye could see, the contract was not a Geass Scroll. He signed the contract and handed it back to the demon, who produced a bundle of blue-purple bill with the same symbol as the Macca coins from his bag.

''Here is your advance, honored client. Also, I see your Famed possess a COMP... May we register him as your contact?''

Melchom pointed to the strange mechanical device on the left arm of Lancer that Kayneth had ignored previously. The frown of the brown haired young man intensified, griping his spear in a threatening manner.

''Do it, Lancer.'' Commanded Kayneth.

''Tch.'' Scoffed Lancer before tapping his gauntlet, turning the screen luminous.

A bip resonated before an artificial voice confirmed the storing of a contact number.

''Excellent. Now, is there anything you would desire before I take my leave, honored client?''

''I am currently in search of a suitable resting place. So far I have been quite disappointed.'' Haughtily declared the magus.

The green-skinned demon made a vicious smile before rising a hand toward a left avenue.

''This information will be free, however subsequent ones will be not.'' Unctuously precised the Melchom. ''Following this road will lead you to Azabu, where you will find the Megami's Embrace. I am certain its refinement will fulfill your desire... May we have more profitable meetings in the future.''

In a puff of red smoke the demon vanished, leaving no trace of its presence except for the bills in Kayneth hand, and a distinct odor of sulfur. The magus checked the amount before chuckling. Things were going just his way. This time, he will be the victor for sure...

The bedroom was plunged into a strange penumbra, one that reminded her many things. Painful things, depressing events whose mere glimpse sent her into depressing gloom. But she was not in the basement of her "grandfather" anymore, worms crawling around and inside her. Instead it was a pair of delicate hands radiating a blue light and warmth, a fuzzy sensation where the demon lady's magic was running through. Lying down on a bed, Sakura Matou simply let herself gaze along the long, one-piece pink sheet enveloping the pale-skinned woman, whose fully red eyes and nakedness outside the aforementioned sheet clearly indicated her inhuman nature. After a moment, the magic light died down, and electric lights illuminated the room again.

''You should be in a better state now.'' Spoke the demon with a gentle, slightly echoing voice. ''My power is far from that of a goddess, but I did everything I could.''

''Thank you very much, lady Hariti.'' Said the young girl, standing on her couch and bowing.

''What a polite human girl. You are almost making me hungry...'' Smiled the demon. ''Oh, do not fret, I was merely jesting. Since lord Gautam has shown me the errors of my way, I only eat fruits of the earth.''

Hariti took two pomegranate from a nearby fruit basket, offering one to the purple-haired girl. The sweet, slightly acid fruit was delicious and she finished it entirely, licking her fingers to not waste the juice.

''You look cute when you enjoy yourself.''

A quiet gasp escaped Sakura when she heard the voice of the young, blue-haired boy who just came into the room. Still wearing the same red pants and black long sleeved shirt, the young blue-haired boy stood still in the door frame, smiling teasingly.

''Caster...'' Meekly protested Sakura.

''I helped the young lady as much as I could, Overlord, but the damages are extensive, and not limited to her body.'' Explained the demoness, floating near the Servant.

The young man nodded, blue eyes looking at his Master attentively before leaving the door frame, allowing the demon to leave.

''Wait, Lady Hariti!...'' Blurted Sakura, making her interlocutor turn around. ''Thank you for the fruit. It was delicious.''

The demoness smiled warmly at the young woman, her red eyes showing a delighted glint.

''My, you really are a sweet human. I'll make sure to tell Persephone you appreciated her harvest'' She said before leaving the two alone, closing the wooden door of the bedroom.

It was large room, clean and proper, with a chair and desk of wood, a door leading to a bathroom and toilet with a mirror inside. All in all, it was more like a luxurious hotel chamber than anything else, and a testament to how much Yuriko was willing to favor her "son".

''Are you alright, Sakura?''

''I'm fine, Rider. Lady Hariti was very gentle, I feel better...'' Confirmed the girl before realizing her mistake. ''I'm sorry Caster. I was... reminiscing...''

Her voice and shoulder dropped. Caster moved in and sat on the bed at Sakura side.

''You were Master in another war?''

''Yes... I didn't want it. I just wanted to stay at Sempai's side, but I had to... I had to send Rider away to protect her, but it wasn't enough, and in the end... I am here, Master again, and I don't understand why...''

Sakura struggled to regain her composure an instant before once more placating a smile on her face.

''It's okay. I just wished I could see Rider, or Sempai...''

''Why not wish it upon the Grail then?'' Asked Caster.

''Uh?... Yes, of course, I would, but... I don't think I can win.'' Confessed the girl, still trying to smile. ''Even if I can supply you with mana... I don't think you can fight against the other Servants.''

Caster frowned, before the realization dawned on him that they didn't speak about the matter a single time. From the summoning, where he had to save her life with his limited healing power as his Master's body was breaking down at every level, then keep her safe during the night before moving to find a safe place, up to now. He never allowed her to see beyond his base stats. But it was more than that. What he saw in her eyes, beyond the false smile. Pessimism. Defeatism. No, even more than that. A form of emptiness. It wasn't that she just believed he wasn't able to beat the enemy Servants. She was simply persuaded, from the bottom of her heart, that she had no chance of winning. And maybe, that she did not deserve to win, or to live at all. He had seen those eyes before in Haru. And just like Haru, he couldn't stay idly by, even more so in that situation in which that girl was his Master.

''Sakura, please look upon my stats once more. I will show you my Skills and Noble Phantasm.''

The young woman nodded and concentrated... Before her eyes widened and her mouth opened agape.

''How...''

Caster openly smirked, one of his trademark smirk that made everyone around him say that he was indeed very much like his brother, or rather, cousin, as they had been in his last life. He was still extremely weak... But time would change that. After all, all he had back then were seven days. Now, only six remained... The door opened, and the tall, slim figure of Yuriko came into light, still dressed in her business attire.

''Should I give you two some more time alone before I ask for the presence of my son?'' Asked the woman with a devious smirk, seeing them both on the bed.

Sakura's luminous blush widened Caster's smirk as he stood up.

''I'll be back soon.'' He reassured her before leaving the room.

He followed Yuriko to a more secluded part of the club upper level, the private room where he introduced his Master to her earlier in the day. Yuriko sat in one of the sofa, inviting the young man to sit on her lap like a young child. He did without objection, letting her caress his hair. He knew better than anger the powerful demon who was fixated on the idea that she was her "mother", both for herself and to take indirect revenge on the one that replaced her at her husband's side in ancient times.

''Oh, darling, that girl you brought. She might act innocent, but I can tell: she is one who knows the pleasures of the flesh very well...'' Whispered Yuriko in a very pleased tone. ''And her power. Such untapped potential is rare amongst human. Don't you want to make this lonely flower bloom in your hands?''

Caster frowned a little. He knew right from the summoning that his Master had a lot of mana for a human, likely as much as Ayame had before the Lockdown. On the other hand, she was clearly neither trained nor ready to use it, and would likely go down easily if she was to be involved in a fight. Which was, at short or long term, unavoidable. He would not be able to protect her all the time, and beside... The road he chose was one where strength was what mattered the most.

''I will train her.'' He simply said, eliciting an approving hum from Yuriko. ''I must know the situation here in Tokyo. Please... Mother.''

''Of course, dear son. Three factions currently share Tokyo. The first is the Devil Auction, whose influence reach to the very corners of the city. I am of course one of its patron.''

No surprise there. The chaotic organization led by Lucifuge, the very one that invented the money system of the demon world, was simply to powerful by the virtue of possessing vast amount of Macca, allowing them to recruit almost any number of demons to do their bidding. Yet, the Devil Action was in the end nothing more than a business organization, without any relationship beyond accumulating money and power. Without a leader strong enough to unite them, it was just likely to fight itself as much as fighting external threats...

''The Japanese divinities are the second one. They might be only shadows of their former selves, but the simple fact that Tokyo is the heart of their spiritual land allowed them to recover quickly. Even with the death of their pantheon head figure.''

''Izanagi-no-okami have been killed?'' Asked the young man, surprised at the new.

''Yes. He fell by the hand of God's Voice itself.'' Confirmed Yuriko with a predatory smile. ''This event broke the resolution of the Shinto gods, and they retreated from the fight against the True Enemy. Now they lurk into the shadow of their shrines, fighting whoever dare approach their territories.''

That was an opportunity. Since the shinto lost their chief god... Most of them would rally his banner without hesitation if he managed to convince their surviving leaders.

''As for the last ones, you can already guess who they are... Pitiful angels, so distraught by the disappearance of their precious God, they did not move a centimeter of their stronghold for half a century. Once you will rise as Overlord again, they will be nothing but ants under your boot.''

''Of course.'' Agreed Caster, feeling her grip becoming slightly painful in her anger.

He forcibly stood up and sat on the sofa in front of her. The third day was tomorrow, and at this time he would be able to truly train his Master if he took the time to evaluate her for what was left of today. Perhaps he could summon a demon to help him in that endeavor. Dantalion came into his mind, the Fallen was a patient teacher and knew more about theoretical magic than himself, who was more used to pure power shaped by will... He flap of wings announced the coming of a demon from the door. One that looked like a young girl with black hair and blue eyes, leaving her whole body uncovered save for a white mini-short and mini-top barely covering her assets. However, her unnatural attractiveness, tail and bat-wing clearly indicated that she was a Lilim, a very close existence of the more adult-looking, and often stronger Succubi. She winked at him, swaying her hips playfully before speaking to Yuriko.

''Mother, a human is approaching the bar. Accompanied by a Famed.''

Caster tensed a little. Was he discovered already? No, it was unlikely. Attacking this place would be suicide for most Heroic Spirit. Maybe they came here by accident, or for information...

''I will take care of this. Keep your brother company while I...'' Started Yuriko before the Lilim interrupted her with a strange expression.

''But mother, this Famed is... Its... Its a Samurai. The Samurai.''

A heavy, dangerous silence fell upon the room. Yuriko seemed almost frozen with what seemed to be... Anger. Murderous intent, so strong the Lilim slowly backed up and took cover behind him, trembling with fear. Then Yuriko changed. Her clothes disappeared and left place to a thin piece of snake skin, spiraling from her left leg to her torso, barely covering anything of her body save for the private area, even less than Lilim who was herself practically nude. Her height increased, her finger fused into three claws while her eyes turned bright yellow. A large demonic snake appeared as well, spiraling around her body like a living shawl. Gone was Yuriko, or rather, she finally unveiled her true appearance as the demon Lilith in a fit of anger.

''Maya will meet him. Tell her to give him whatever he want, then chase him away. He will not stay here more than necessary. Is that clear?'' Snarled Lilith.

The Lilim frantically nodded before flying out of the room, leaving Caster puzzled. Such reaction. The Heroic Spirit then was clearly an enemy of the past, one that may have even slain Lilith. But simply that was not enough, it must have been something more... In a flash Lilith was standing before him, holding his chin with her three-fingered hand.

''My dear Abel, I have a request for you... Grow stronger, and kill that Samurai before my very eyes... That is all.'' Whispered the demon in a low, livid voice.

Caster nodded, calm blue eyes starring into vengeful yellow. Then as fast as it came the violence in Lilith attitude died down, and she made her grip a gentle stroke in his hair.

''You know how to make your mother happy, my dear son. I'll be back soon. Take care of your girl in the meantime...''

And with that she simply disappeared, the faint trace of her contact still lingering on his cheek. Kazuya Minegishi, Caster of the Holy Grail War and reincarnation of the biblical Abel, couldn't help but scratch his head. Who, with the exception of both Adam and Eve, could bring into Lilith such fury at a mere mention? And most of all, why?

Chapter Text

This part of the city was far too close to where Tokiomi had first awaken in this twisted Tokyo to his taste, but according to Saber, they didn't have much choice. Not only because it took them away from the direction where other Servants obviously battled. The demons they met, no matter how his Servant worked his… "force of persuasion", which Tokiomi was more and more convinced was the benefit of his Charisma skill, were unanimous: there were very, very few places in the city where one could shelter a human. And even among those places, even fewer were truly safe for a human. But unfortunately, the remaining places all had one thing in common: they cost money.

And despite the money Saber obtained with his… Verbal rackets, it was still a paltry sum compared to what those places would cost, even for a single night. And so the Servant proposed to do as he did when he was alive: rent his services in exchange of money, shelter, and perhaps more importantly, information. And so they were approaching a building which stood out of everything else around it, much like the Church earlier. The Night Club, as it was apparently called, was a large building of about four floor. Interestingly, it had no windows at all and a single black door, but something else was obviously setting it apart from the rest: its walls were atrociously painted, a garish blending of red, purple and yellow, making the magus wince with disgust.

"Be on your guard, Master. Nigth demon may try to ensnare you despite my presence."

"I will remember this. However Saber, you will have to explain me the meaning of "Clan" and "Race" as soon as possible."

"Of course."

Saber then pushed the door, and they entered inside. To Tokiomi's surprise, it was wildly different from the vulgar exterior. Instead of the den of depravity he expected, what he found once is eyes were accustomed to the dark interior was a quiet, soft ambiance carried by a skillfully played piano. Candles on each table and wall provided all the light necessary. The chairs and banquettes were covered in red velvet. Alcoves in the walls were masked by curtains to provide intimacy. The magus quickly realized why it was called Club however: at the center of the room were three poles perched on elevated circle, where what appeared superficially to be young girls twirled and danced before a small crowd of customers. But neither the girls nor the customers were usual. They were all demons. Mostly humanoid, even if some weird shapes were present. Tokiomi recognized the presence of Onis, but also a Naga, whose long tail replacing what should be human legs moved with the music. They only had eyes for the blond girls on stage, all three scantily dresses in black leather, their bat wings and pointed tails dancing with the rest of their body.

"Succubus."

Saber nodded before moving forward, Tokiomi right behind him. Some of the demons glanced at them with careful, defiant and sometimes fearful eyes, but most simply kept looking at the succubi. One of them suddenly leaped from her pole and landed right before a humanoid lion clad in red and whose arms seemed to be living serpents. Envious whispers erupted from the crowd of demons as the succubus rose up, coiling her legs and body around that of the lion demon in an unambiguous gesture. Grinning, the latter departed with his partner toward one of the alcove. The magus lost interest in the demons to get a more precise look at the counter, where he and Saber were heading.

A luxurious piece of dark wood, behind which was a creature that was probably either a supervisor or the owner of the place: An extremely tall, statue like woman with an entirely black body, with the exception of white geometrical lines and motifs all over her skin and crimson lips. Her face had no eyes, a crimson red gems at the center of her visage replacing them, sleek black hair barely visible upon her head. As Saber and Tokiomi approached the demon started talking with an echoing, melodious voice that seemed to shift at every word.

"Welcome to the Night Club, demon tamer. I am Maya, of the Night Race. It has been long since your kind walked on the Earth, and so your visit fill us with curiosity. What are you expecting to find in this domain of mine?"

The name of the demon and the latent power Tokiomi felt from her mere words made him instinctively enter the same stance he would have in front of a Lord of the Clock Tower. To his knowledge, Maya was a divinity of illusion in hinduism. While he was doubtful she was a true Divine Spirit, something told him she was very much standing on the same level as Heroic Spirits.

"I appreciate your courtesy, lady Maya. I am Tohsaka Tokiomi, sixth head of the Tohsaka family. I, alongside my Servant, am in search of a place to rest."

The black stone-like demon moved her hand graciously, in a gesture that was inexplicably blurred to the magus' vision.

"The establishment's lowest prices are 200 Macca for a single night and 1200 for a week, while our highest are 600 Macca for the night and 3600 for a week, all services included. However, I am afraid I cannot offer you what you came to find here, human. Think no ill of me, for the circumstance surrounding my refusal are above my authority to solve."

Tokiomi frowned. A complication already, and one that Saber didn't anticipate. While the prices were, as expected, far too high for them, the plain impossibility to rest here was concerning. Avoiding to gaze only on the blood-red jewel in the middle of the demon's face, he decided to push things delicately.

"Forgive me for my indiscretion, lady Maya, but we were under the assumption this place was open to anyone with enough money to afford it. Including demon tamer such as myself. May I learn why this have changed?"

"It is very simple. The Devil Auction have currently reserved the establishment for their own personal use."

The magus was about to ask who were the Devil Auction when Saber took as step forward. Tokiomi immediately left him the lead, a little part of himself wondering if his own surprisingly subservient attitude toward his Servant wasn't due to its Charisma.

"Even if we can't stay there, I'm sure there is something Master and I can do for you before going away."

The demon seemed to consider his words, her fingers traveling across the bar in a slow, deliberate manner.

"There is something you can do, yes. There is a certain demon that has bothered the girls and ran away without paying it's proper due. I ask you to kill him. Do so and I will reward you."

Saber nodded firmly.

"Very well. The demon seems to have taken sanctuary near the Fairy Forest. Once you have completed your task, you shall receive your due. Now, leave. I ask you to never come back."

Tokiomi didn't miss the cue and gave his regard politely before moving back, avoiding carefully to make eye contact with any resident of the place. Only once he found himself outside did he started to relax more and more as he and Saber walked far from the Night Club.

"I noticed you didn't negotiated the price of our service, nor you asked about the demon we were meant to kill."

A bip resounded, and the magus recognized the picture of the artificial ghost on the Gauntlet of Saber.

"Chaos demons only respect strength. Doing either would have put us in position of inferiority, and we can't afford it in a place such as this one."

"I see. So our position was this fragile." Said the magus, frowning.

"You may have noticed, Master Thosaka, but demons are not exactly the beings they are in legends, just like we Servants are not always the exact same as we were in life." Continued Burroughs. "Most demons are far weaker than their strength when they were true gods or monsters. In the same way, I lost most of the power I had in my first life to become a Servant."

"How large is the gap exactly?"

"If I had been alive, I could have killed all the demons present without so much as a single scratch. As I'm now, I fear Maya alone will be difficult to kill." Admitted Saber.

How strong had been Saber in his past life? Wondered Tokiomi. But it was no use to push about things that weren't. What could be useful, on the other hand…

"How much time there will be before we reach the Fairy Forest?"

"An hour or so, at our current speed." Estimated Flynn. "I wouldn't advise going faster. To demonstrate power would attract attention."

"Then enlighten me, Saber, about the Races and Clans. It will make this walk much more agreeable, and the knowledge will certainly be useful."

The Servant nodded before letting his circuit made companion speak, while he was himself watching for possible enemies on their path.

"In essence, Race and Clan are different words for essentially the same thing. Demons instinctively recognize themselves as part of a specific Race, which gather creatures with similar mythological origin. The Night Clan for example is made of demons, spirits and lesser deities associated with the night. They often possess common strengths and weaknesses, and are always of the same Alignment."

The robotic helper of Saber was as talkative as the Servant was concise. Except when it came to negotiating with demons. That, Tokiomi doubted to ever get accustomed to.

"Master himself belongs to the Famed Clan, composed exclusively of honored heroes and figures of human history whose Alignment is Neutral. Their Lawful and Chaotic counterparts are the Hero and General Clans respectively. My understanding was that you refer to those three categories together as ''Heroic Spirit'', eligible to be summoned for a Grail War."

"Precisely. The Grail made by the Three Family can only summon heroes of humanity."

"I'll register that information." Acknowledged Burrough. "Clans and Races are also grouped into ''Greater Races'' or ''Species'', but those are much less important to our current predicament. Do not worry Master Thosaka, I have an encyclopedic knowledge of demons in my databases. Whoever is the opponent we will face, I'll be able to identify them without failure."

The magus pondered that information. It was extremely convenient, however, it meant the opponent might be able to do the same. The demons seemed to be able to recognize each other, or at least their Race, quite quickly…

"Do not worry, Master. I have no particular conceptual weaknesses nor sworn enemy."

"None at all? Have you never been defeated?" Inquired Tokiomi, feeling it would be a vital advantage.

"Well, there was one time where Master Flynn confronted Yaso-Magatsuhi..."

"Burroughs. Not a word."

Tokiomi raised an eyebrow. Was Saber… Embarrassed? It was hard to tell, but it seemed that way behind the stoic visage.

"It's nothing. Forget about it, Master. Please."

Tokiomi nodded. As long as it wouldn't become an impediment in the future…

Lancer was nervous. No, not nervous. On edge. They were almost at the place that has been indicated, the Megami's Embrace. He wasn't an expert on demonkind, even if his Gauntlet did contain a large amount of knowledge, but even he knew that this place was most likely the safest and most luxurious that could ever be found in this ruined Tokyo. The Megami were in general earth and fertility deities and often the primary goddesses of their pantheons. Kind and gentle demons, as much as the notion irked him, and whose protection meant almost absolute safety for his Master once they became their guests. Yet, something was running shiver through his spine. What was it?

"Lancer. How long ten thousand Macca will offer us?"

"Not much." Answered the Servant, on high alert. "Two to three nights at best."

"Unimportant. My plans can accommodate it." Declared Kayneth haughtily, his mind no doubt working on said plans. "Will the demons of this place provide sufficient protection?"

"Almost as good as my own if they are truly of the Megami. Fallen goddess they may be, but their strength are among the greatest of their kind."

"If my hypothesis are correct, what make them weaker is the loss of their Authority and the fragmentation of their conceptual identity. It would certainly explain why many of the same entity can be found…"

Suddenly it was here. Halfway to his Master's throat. Mat blades. He KNEW those blades! Gaston ceased to think. His body sprung into action. His spear whirled and crossed the short blades path, knocking them away. Just in time. He stroke twice, the spear shining. But each were deflected. Knowingly. Just like himself. His gaze crossed that of the assailant. Brown into crimson red. Then time resumed its course, and they exchanged another flurry of strikes before the enemy jumped away, breaking the engagement and gracefully landing in the frame of a destroyed building's window, five meter above the ground. All of this in the time of a singe of his Master's breath. The blond magus only sign of shock was a slightly accelerated breathing that calmed itself instantly, eyes quickly analyzing the scene before rising to look upon the Servant that had just tried to end his life.

"Assassin, I presume. I suppose your Master won't have the decency to present himself either. I should know better than to expect dogs to fight at the standard of proper magi after all." Contemptuously said Kayneth.

Assassin didn't answer. Despite her face being hidden behind a black oni mask, her body proportion easily revealing her to be a slender and tall woman, almost as tall as Lancer. Her body was covered from toe to neck by a black bodysuit, a long purple veil falling from her shoulders down to her knees. In her hands were two sharp knives shaped like machetes, the mat metal they were made of seemingly absorbing light to better hide itself. It was finally Lancer who broke the silence.

"Your Temporal Blade is a frightening technique to face, but I have seen it enough time to perceive it. Don't expect for me to lose my Master so easily, Toki."

Assassin didn't react for a time, her crimson eyes locked into those of Lancer. Then she reached for her mask, discarding it to reveal a pale, porcelain-like complexion. Her face was sharp, but her features delicate as she stared at Gaston, evaluating him.

"Target's Agility and Strength evaluated at A rank. Target can read through movements and react accordingly. Target knows my techniques and methods. Conclusions: surprise attacks ruled out. Specific plan must be devised."

The cold, clinical tone crossed through the alleyway, making Lancer grip his weapon more tightly… Until a faint smile appeared on Assassin's face, and she continued with a hint of reminiscence in her voice.

"It really is you, Gaston. You were so young I was doubting your identity."

"Humph. Was the obvious peak or our existence not the defeat of the Creator?" Asked Lancer with pride. "I'm starting to wonder where you see your own peak with how grown up you are now, Toki."

The young woman smile widened a little, her posture apparently relaxing. But Gaston didn't fell for it, keeping his guard up. He knew more than anyone how quickly the young girl could spring into action. By their brief exchange, he estimated her speed to be at least equal to his own, even if in term of strength he was the clear winner. From the corner of his eyes he could see his Master ready. Interesting, with the character displayed so far, Gaston thought he would have already urged him to finish off Toki…

"Mission is a failure for now. I will retreat." Announced Toki, putting her mask on again. "Farewell, Gaston."

And in a blink she was gone, leaving not a single trace. A specific Skill to jump out of the fight? It would fit her quite effectively. Making a sign at his Master to wait, Gaston scanned the surrounding carefully.

"You and Assassin were awfully familiar with each other. Don't you have something to tell me, Lancer?"

The tone of Kayneth was accusing, but Gaston let it slide. He would be suspicious himself in front of such display.

"I recognized her technique when she targeted you. She and I fought side by side in our first life; Her specialty was striking from the shadow, and I'm not surprised she ended as this war's Assassin."

"I see, I see. And will this fact change anything about your conduct of the war, Lancer?" Snarled Kayneth with a venomous voice, to such a degree Gaston was now irritated himself.

"What sort of dim-witted fool do you take me for, Master? Nothing has changed. If she ever challenge me and the occasion rises, I will end her life. And should her back be turned, I will thrust my spear through it without hesitation."

It wouldn't be the first time she and I tried to kill each other, in fact it would merely be one among many, thought Lancer with dry amusement. His tight-lipped Master seemed to loosen a little at this assured answer, and when Lancer was sufficiently sure Assassin was gone, or at least not preparing an immediate assault, he told his Master that they could resume their movement toward their future stronghold.

"Then let's go." Snapped Kayneth. "This hostel better be worth the price."

"Unbelievable…"

The small white haired, red eyed girl was looking down, mumbling her disbelief at what she had just been told. As if everything that happened prior wasn't enough…

"It's only a natural reaction I guess. Most people couldn't believe demons could be summoned and controlled using phones and computers in my time either, even after they did it themselves."

The one who answered gently was an elegant blond woman in red jacket, short and belt, with several firearms hanging at her side. She cleaned, reloaded and sheathed it while the albinos girl continued.

"Grandfather would have had a stroke learning about this. No, everyone would. It took centuries for the Einzbern to find a way to retrieve the Third Magic. It took even more to associate with the Tohsaka and Makiri to create the Holy Grail War ritual… And now, its not even a Magic anymore. The Materialization of the Soul is now mere Magecraft. Magecraft… Hey, stop it Archer! I'm not a child!"

Archer laughed warmly as she dodged the small fists of her Master, still patting her head and long white hair.

"Sorry Master, but with how small you are I can't help myself."

"I'm eighteen! It's not my fault I didn't grow normally!…"

She fell silent, once more looking at the close lake like it held all the answers she sought. Archer smiled, a little sadly, and came closer to her Master on the wooden bench. The small Master didn't resist and let herself be hugged, teeth clenched.

"I don't understand… I don't understand! Why? I lost, I know it! I remember it! That goldie came, and Berserker couldn't fight him because I was here! He is the strongest, he was the strongest in the world, but I was here, and… And…"

Archer hugged her Master closer as the girl's tear flowed. It broke her heart to hear this. The distress of her Master, how much the little girl had been robbed of, and the cruel irony that was her current state. All of it only served to further her own suspicions about what she found herself in. Whatever this was, it was no Holy Grail War. Using a small amount of her power, she transformed her Master's distress into tiredness, then exhaustion, then sleep. After a few minute the child was soundly asleep on Archer's laps, and she stroke the long hairs while arranging her little Master's purple coat. So peaceful in her sleep, Archer had to resist the urge to take a photo. At least they were safe. The safest place of all, where no one would find them until she was ready… She straightened herself and called for one of her strongest ally.

"Vivian, may I have your help?"

At those words, a beautiful woman pierced the lake's surface without a single ripple. Her green hairs and almost nakedness, with only purple boots, gloves and blue cape as clothes, and her pale blue skin, indicated her nature as a Fairy.

"What is it you desire, Nozomi?" Asked the Lady of the Lake.

"Ask for Oberon and Titania to stop bickering and come here. I would need a week to deploy my Noble Phantasm, but with their help, it should only take a day or two to do so, especially here. And also…"

"Of course. Should you need it, I can prepare it for you. I will also tell some Jack Frost to come play with your Master." The fairy said with a melodious voice before bowing and disappearing into the lake.

Nozomi shook her head. When she became Fairy Queen, she slowly but surely transformed into a Fairy herself until she completely became one, taking up the mantle of Fairy Queen in flesh and spirit. But her human existence has still been recorded as a Famed. Sometimes strange things happened… She again pat the head of her sleeping Master.

"Poor, poor Illyasviel. Sleep for now. Tomorrow is another day…"

Chapter Text

To a human passerby, if there was any left alive to stroll in the devastated Tokyo, the sight of the bloc Kayneth was walking through would make them believe that the gods themselves had protected the place. The streets were clean, intact facades were the norm, trees were growing strong at regular intervals, and not a single demon was in view. And in fact, that assumption couldn't be closer to the truth: the gods didn't protect the place as much as they restored it for their own purpose. From the moment he has set a foot in the street, Kayneth detected the powerful Bounded Field he crossed, one he quickly recognized as a ward against evil spirits. It lacked in finesse, but as he expected, those phantasmal beings relied on the vestiges of their powers from the Age of Gods rather than magecraft. His Servant was watching, ever watchful, but nothing happened as they reached a luxurious looking building, one he could admit was worthy of his presence by aesthetic alone as it resembled a more European establishment rather than a backwater Asian shack.

Lancer took the lead as they both took a step on to the red carpet of the hotel stairs, leading to the large double doors with the name "Megami's Embrace" written in golden letters above. Yet Kayneth's gaze was attracted instead to the demon guarding the entrance, a towering armored and crowned humanoid with a massive shield and spear in hand. Its face was concealed by a feminine looking red mask and a triple winged helmet crowning its head, leaving but a strand of blond hair and a bit of porcelain skin noticeable. In the same way its body was hidden by a white toga, leaving sandal wearing feet, leather armored legs and arms barely visible.

"Magus, it has been a long time since your kind has stepped forth before this place. Do you seek the hospitality of the Megami's Embrace?" Asked the demon with a dignified and clearly feminine voice.

Kayneth sent a critical gaze at the entity standing before him. While it was most certainly not as powerful of an impression as what he would have expected from a Divine Spirit, comforting his building theory about the nature of those "demons", it was still much greater than he expected after the first few examples he has seen already, perhaps on par with Lancer.

"Indeed. I, Kayneth El-Melloi Archibald, ninth head of the Archibalds and Lord of the Clock Tower, will take residence in this place for the duration of the Holy Grail War. I hope your accommodations will be suitable for one of my station." Said the magus with supreme confidence.

"Very well." Acknowledged the demon, and the doors behind her opened without a single movement from its part. "Know that I, Pallas Athena of the Megami Race, is the guardian of this place. As long as you dwell within these walls, you shall be under the protection of my divine Aegis."

Even the unflappable magus couldn't help but frown at the declaration. Pallas Athena? The Greek goddess of wisdom, strategy and craft? He would have never associated such existence to the creature he was seeing in front of him, but he had now the suspicion it was concealing its true power. To appear weak would never cross the mind of an esteemed magus like himself, but Kayneth wouldn't put it past a deity who exalted ruse and deception in warfare.

"Thank you for your service. Let's go, Lancer."

His Servant seemed on edge just as much as before, eyes darting all around. Good. The little encounter with Assassin proved he would not succumb to a treacherous assault, at the very least. Entering the hall, he was pleased to discover a formal reception desk visibly handled by a pale woman in a white gown, her right arm covered in armor while her left was handling a vase containing a warm flame.

"Greeting, honored guest. I am Brigid of the Megami Race, receptionist of this establishment. What can I do for you?"

"I will… ask you to give me your range of prices." Kayneth corrected himself, acutely remembering how his resources were not as vast as they should have been and that asking for the most expensive one could possibly make him a fool.

"We have single rooms available for 1000 macca a night. Our lowest priced suite, the Rhodes, cost 3000 macca for a night and day. The Septem suite is currently in use by another client until another sixteen days. The Troy and the Olympus cost 6000 and 10000 macca for the same period respectively. Regardless of your choice, the Megami's Embrace will offer you protection and access to numerous services without further charges."

Lancer had been right, concluded Kayneth with irritation. Taking a suite, which was the only suitable choice for someone of his caliber, would let them barely three days and nights if they chose the cheaper one.

"Hum. Which services can I expect this establishment to provide?" Asked the magus, concealing his mood with impeccable politeness.

"Our employees shall provide you with sustenance, healing, recreational activities of physical or intellectual nature, as well as a contact from the Devil Auction to facilitate management of your funds and contracts. A shop will also be at your disposition for obtaining equipment and materials."

A quick transaction later, Kayneth found himself in a bedroom with quite respectable arrangements, including a sealed room for the purpose of magecraft. Savoring the refined wine a floating blue spirit brought him, the magus contemplated his options. He now had three days to obtain information on his opponents, prepare his tools, fashion a strategy and execute it with perfection. He was quite certain that as long as he remained in this place, no competitor will be able to touch him. Yet… turning his eyes on Lancer, his Servant, Kayneth felt the same phantom ache inside his body.

"Lancer. What do you wish for the Holy Grail?"

"What a curious question, Master. Didn't you say I would only be the weapon you wield to victory?" Said the young man as he turned towards his Master, his attitude respectful but with that edge that separated him clearly from Diarmuid. "But as you wish. I have an elder brother you see, one that failed to perform both a human being and a samurai in many respects. His death, however, was an ignoble one even he did not deserve. If this Grail is truly as powerful as pretended, I will use it to change history and grant my foolish brother the life he needed to become a man of worth."

"I see. And how would you go and win this war, were I to leave you to your own device?"

For the first time since his summoning, the composure of Lancer seemed to waver.

"I would likely search for my opponents and vanquish them one by one, until I win or fall. I know all too well that strategy and tactics are not my strong points. All of this is something I delegate to you, Master."

Tapping his glass with a finger, Kayneth forced himself to follow the line of thoughts he would have immediately discarded in any other circumstances, if not for the burning pain he could still feel in his chest and nerves.

"Then, would you follow my orders no matter what? Tell me, Lancer. Is there anything that would make you stop listening to my commands?"

"… Perhaps I underestimated you, Master. I thought you the kind of people taking obedience for granted." Said Lancer after a moment of silence. "I will make myself clear. Though I doubt there is a single innocent soul left alive in this demon-infested Tokyo, I will neither tolerate acts of cruelty nor to be used against the people I have sworn to defend. Should you chose to pursue this path, I will become your enemy, Command Spell or not."

The threat hung in the air, Kayneth's staying as still as a statue with only his hand making the wine swirl in the glass, his face impassible while he resisted the burning desire to make the unruly familiar submit with words and a Command Spell.

"I see. Let us say you have grievously wounded Saber in a duel. Berserker chooses to intervene at this moment and attack Saber. What would you do if I ordered you to ally with Berserker to finish Saber off?" Inquired the magus dryly, the scene playing again in his mind in a flash of anger before he decided to be sure of something. "No, let us say I order you to attack Saber's defenseless Master. Would you obey me?"

"I would do so immediately. As I told you before, Master, even if we were to make a truce with another, I would not hesitate to strike them in the back on your command. The enemy of my enemy is still a target, and I will not let my pride get in the way of my wish." Said Lancer without hesitation.

Kayneth let himself relax inwardly as he listened to the words of his Servant. He made the mistake to not inquire the temperament of his Servant once, and he would not repeat it. In fact, there were, as much as he hated to admit it, more than one mistake he would be sure not to repeat this time: thinking his opponent would play by the rules, trusting the supervisors to not take a side, and believing he could get away without devoting his entire self into the war…

"I'm detecting a strong demon ahead. Do you want to go on?" Suddenly asked Burrough.

Flynn stopped immediately his walk toward the edge of the forest and drew his weapon, prompting his Master to stop moving as well and crouch slightly, most probably unconsciously. He knew the magus was specialized in a form of magecraft requiring gemstones to be charged with mana for a long period of time before being usable, but that sign seemed to indicate physical training as well. It boded well for the fight ahead, as it was certain he would be able to both kill the demon and protect his Master from all harm. If Burrough warned of a powerful demon, it generally meant a difficult battle. Advancing carefully closer to the edge of the forest, where the trees were already massive, the Saber class Servant listened to the silence. Before long, a dark silhouette detached himself from the shadows.

"So, the snake whore finally sent someone after me." Said a dark, gritting voice. "But I would have never guessed she would have someone like you at her feet, Samurai."

Flynn raised his eyes to look at the face of his opponent, a giant man wielding a single-edged bronze sword and wearing the pelt of a wolf as his only cloth. His arms and legs were covered in green warpaint, and only the lower half of his face was visible, the rest covered by the face and jaw of the dead wolf.

"Scanning… Berserker of the Brute Race. Physical attacks are useless. It has a weakness to Force." Biped Burrough from the Gauntlet. Flynn adjusted his grip on his katana as the demon continued to rant.

"Those ungrateful spawns of hers only exist to spread their legs. I've simply used them like they should, and this bitch think I have to pay for it? Isn't that a joke, Samurai?"

"Even so, you should respect what they gave you." Replied Flynn calmly, which seemed to piss off the demon.

"Peuh! What about you, human? Isn't it natural to take what's offered to you?"

"I will not waste my words for a monster ruled only by its base desires. Saber, eliminate this demon." Commanded Tokiomi.

Before the magus even finished his sentence, the berserker had already raised his weapon and hurled himself at Flynn. The samurai blocked the bronze sword, the impact echoing into his arms as the Brute demon attacked again and again, forcing him on the defensive. He couldn't afford to simply dodge and let the demon go past him, risking his Master at the same time, but that didn't mean he was without option. Deflecting a particularly wide blow, Flynn took the fraction of time before another assault to make his own move.

"Zandyne."

Following his words, a massive gust of wind exploded in the face of the demon, pushing him backward with a pained grunt. Flynn pressed his advantage by releasing the same Force spell again, flinging the Brute against a tree before focusing on shifting the balance.

"Luster Candy."

The mana drain was noticeably higher compared to Zandyne but worthwhile as he felt his body become lighter, sturdier, just in time to block the renewed assault of his opponent. But when the demon raised his sword in the air with two hand, Flynn recognized an incoming wide range attack. If he didn't counter it, his Master would be in the radius.

"Tetrakarn."

A red-orange barrier appeared around the samurai and his Master. When the berserker slammed the ground and sent a massive shock-wave in their direction, Flynn felt his mana reserve fall considerably as the barriers stopped the attack from affecting them, trees trembling and the ground breaking under the pressure. Then in a flash of light the shock-wave rebounded from the barrier to the demon, who shrugged it off like it was nothing but distracted it long enough for Flynn to Concentrate.

"Zandyne!"

The supercharged spell impacted the demon and exploded. The berserker roared in pain, fizzling as if its physical form couldn't hold itself together anymore.

"Damn you Samurai! You think you'll get anything by killing me? That snake bitch hates you more than anything, and in your current state she'll tear you apart! Let me live, and I'll help you fight her!"

The demon's grip on his weapon changed almost imperceptibly. Flynn didn't answer, instead tilting his sword upward… and intercepted the thrown sword of the berserker before it reached Tokiomi. Before the demon could charge, Saber released a last Concentrated Zandyne, dispersing the essence of his foe into curls before it faded for good.

"Good work, Saber. Your spellcasting is truly potent."

"Thank you, Master." said Flynn cautiously, feeling something approach.

A flap of wing from above made him raise his head, in time to see a Lilim float down with a satisfied expression.

"Nice job! Even if Mother won't be happy you lived, that jerk really pissed me off, so I don't mind giving you the reward!"

Taking the stack of macca bills from the demon's slim hand, Flynn counted 2500 adding to their 487, making their total a paltry 2987. Macca seemed to be much rarer compared to his time among the living, as both the prices and the amount received for the job were very low.

"I'd love to stay and taste you, but my shift is coming! Good luck and stay away from Mother, Samurai!" Said the Lilim as she flew away, leaving them alone at the forest edge.

"Congratulation on completing the quest!" Announced Burrough.

The discreet sigh coming from his Master told Saber he still wasn't used to either the coming and going of the demons, Burrough, or both.

"Is the money we now possess sufficient to seek a hostel?"

"I believe so, Master." Nodded Flynn, opening the map on his gauntlet to locate their next destination: a place in Shinjuku. According to the demons he interrogated sooner, a powerful divinity has taken residency in the place and offered shelter to those who could pay him.

"Very well. Let us depart at once, Saber." Said Tokiomi, and they walked away from the forest. "However, I am worried regarding the enmity mentioned by both this succubus and the demon you felled. There is only one figure I can figure to being the mother of succubi, and I cannot see the link you could have had with the mythical Lilith."

The monstrous form of his old foe sprouted from the samurai's memories, as well as the disguise in which she had first encountered him and his friends. He didn't hate her, not like he first did after her rampage in Mikado, after he had to kill Issachar, and after she turned Walter into an opponent. His Master made the right conclusions, though of course couldn't know the details.

"Allow me to explain, Master Tohsaka." Beeped Burrough. "During his journey, Master Flynn hunted down the demon Lilith twice and put an end to her plans. If she carries memories of that time, her animosity is not surprising."

"I see." Acknowledge Tokiomi, understanding the difference between original and demon. "I suppose she is the one controlling of the Night Club, and her decision is what barred us to rest in the place."

"Very likely." Said Flynn, recalling how Maya did not introduce herself as the owner of the Club. "We should be careful. I doubt she will attack us, but Lilith is stronger than Maya. We can't underestimate her influence."

"I see." Repeated Tokiomi, deep in thought. "The sooner we reach a place to reside in, the sooner I will be able to formulate a plan. Let us quicken the pace, Saber."

"As you wish." Nodded Saber.

"Looks like the Quest is going well." Concluded Burrough.

Under the city of Tokyo, the large network of metro was plunged in the dark. No electricity flowed in the cables throughout the tunnels, for the ones still in shape, at least. Many of them crumbled a long time ago, be it due to fighting or lack of repairs, and navigating in the maze would be a daunting task even for one accustomed to move with neither light nor points of references. And in the shadows lurked not only demons, but also the creeping Domains of those strong enough to materialize them, taking over sections of the metro as their own traps for preys and imprudent. Yet the slender figure moved in the metro with supreme confidence, her black and purple attire blending with the shadows. Domains seemed to be unable to catch her, demons didn't notice her approach even as she passed by an inch of their form, and even the ground didn't keep a trace of its passage. Until she reached an unassuming spot, where she delicately moved a panel to unveil a passage and slipped inside, replacing the panel behind her. The passage led to a small room, a resting place for workers during the tunnel excavation. A splintered table, a gaping locker, and a rusty metal bed were the only items inside.

"Master, I have returned." Announced Toki.

A male figure was leaning on a wall, completely immobile, not even a breathing escaping his body. He didn't answer, his long black hair half-covering his face. Smaller than the tall woman who approached him, his pale skin a striking contrast to his dark coat outlined with fur, shirt, pants and glove, he looked somewhat similar to his Servant.

"Saber, Lancer and Rider identified. Berserker is unknown. Caster and Archer are hiding. Attempt upon Lancer's Master, unsuccessful. Lancer identified me."

Her words didn't elicit a reaction at first. After a long silence the lips of the man moved, and a low, emotionless voice escaped them.

"Are they among the Masters?"

"No Masters are corresponding to your description either Hakuno Kishinami nor Leonardo Bristario Harwey."

A dark purple stain appeared upon the Master's face, expanding all over the right side of his visage and leaving only a gaping void before retracting and disappearing almost instantly, leaving no trace of having even appeared. The man stood up from the wall, dusting off his sleeves before opening his eyes. His cold, black pupils met the dark red gaze of the Servant, before straying toward the exit.

"Lead me to the demons."

"Yes, Master." Answered Toki in a reverent, almost affectionate tone.

Her Master was strong. Not as strong as the one she pledged her life to, but still worthy of her devotion. Even against her former friend or Flynn himself, she knows they can win. After all, one only needed to target the weak link to win against opponents in this war…

Chapter Text

Tokiomi, despite looking as impeccably calm as always, was getting increasingly anxious by the sky getting darker and darker, the sun setting slowly but surely over the demon infested city of Tokyo. Him and Saber were almost in Shinjuku, in the place where allegedly a demon was giving hospitality to any who came with the money to pay him, no matter the nature or the alignment of the guest. That last part was one of the new pieces of information the ghost cast in circuit in Saber's Gauntlet has given him, how important it was not only for what it revealed for the nature of a demon, but also its place in the grand conflict that played out between those creatures. As the darkness encroached upon the streets, he also noticed how the demons in the street were... different than those before. Movements on the edge of his vision caught in the angle of inhabited buildings, hostile eyes around the corners of streets, bestial forms scurrying vaguely seen beyond windows and ruins. Without his Heroic Spirit, Tokimi was certain he would have not lasted until nightfall.

"We are close, Master. Stay on your guard."

The magus nodded as they approached what seemed to be a building in a much better state of conservation than anything else around, what seemed to have been a large shopping mall in better times. A shiver went through his back as he passed what he identified as a Bounded Field of some sort, something he could not pinpoint yet the function, but he was certain was binding in a way or another, right before Saber pushed open the transparent plastic doors of the mall. A vertigo overpowered him, and when his vision came back… he was welcomed by a sight that was not what he had seen the mall contained from the outside: walls made of wood, floor covered with furs, a large hearth with a burning fire inside.

"This is a Domain, Master Tohsaka. An area separated from normal space-time made by a powerful demon. It serves primarily as a hunting ground." Biped Burrough.

A particularly powerful Bounded Field that any strong demon could make? The magus was worried by this new information, especially as the mention of it being a "hunting ground", implying it was primarily a trap which you could not escape by normal means. A clinking of metal, and side by side from a doorcase on the right appeared two armored blonde women, their eyes covered by a mask extending into small wings in the sides of their head.

"Valkyries" quietly said Saber, as another figure walked toward them. This one was a colossus, much taller than the Valkyries, wearing only a cape and a loincloth outlining his overly muscled body. Its skin was a strong shade of blue and green, its hairs a dark red surrounding a frowning face. Yet its most noticeable peculiarity was its right hand: no flesh, but a metallic replacement crafted with obvious mastery, as flexible as a real member.

"I am Tyr, of the Kishin Race. Why have you come into my Domain, demon summoner?"

The demon's voice was deep and gritting, but unlike that of the Berserker demon they fought, it was also imbued with majesty, a power Tokiomi could feel was in the same league as Maya. And it was no surprise, for the one in front of them announced himself to be the Norse god of justice, law and war. Though of lesser renown than Thor and Odin, he could not be denied either strength or status.

"Greeting, honored god of justice. I am Tohsaka Tokiomi, sixth head of the Tohsaka family and the Master of Saber. We have come to your Domain seeking refuge from the darkness of the night, and the demons haunting it."

The gaze of the god bore through Tokiomi, switching to the Heroic Spirit briefly before returning to the magus.

"I recognize you Savior of Tokyo; your deeds and nature are known to me. Both you and your Master are welcome into my Domain. Come to my table, where food and warmth will fill your spirit after your travel."

At the word of their god the two Valkyies disappeared in another room while Tokiomi and Flynn followed their host to the table. Taking place on a bench in front of their host, they were soon welcomed by a feast of mead and meat brought by the warrior maidens. The magus wisely decided to not question from where they were coming from, reasoning a god would have little trouble in such a matter, and politely but gladly started to fill his empty stomach.

"It has been a long time since a representant of humanity came to this city. I do not think you have come from an eventual surviving population, nor your presence irrelevant to the recent surge in activity that has shaken Tokyo. Though my sight not equal that of the All-Father or the valiant holder of Gjallahorn, I am not ignorant of the world's matters. Would you grace me with the means and goals of your travel, magus?"

Tokiomi set aside his fork thoughtfully, choosing his words carefully. While not as well-known as the Greek's, the Norse's customs regarding hospitality were considered sacred, with the god before him being one of its guarantors. To hide and deflect would reflect poorly and perhaps breach their status as guest, something they could not afford.

"Of course, honored host. I am a participant in the ritual of the Holy Grail War, within which I am competing with six others and their Servants to obtain the right to wish upon the sacred cup."

"And Tokyo is the battlefield chosen for this war." Said Tyr, his flesh fingers intertwining with his metallic ones. "While I am unfamiliar with the power your Grail can offer, I recognize it as the likeness of Dagda's Cauldron. Though as enticing of a prize it is to go after, beware of the angels. There is little doubt they will take exception to a mortal claiming property of an artifact supposedly imbued with their God's power."

"Thank you for your concern, o Tyr, but it is not warranted. The angels are the ones sponsoring this ritual, with the Church acting as neutral ground where no conflict can occur." Explained Tokiomi, catching Saber rising and leaving the table without a word, an action that seemed overlooked by the Norse god.

"In that case I rest assured, magus. With such an esteemed contract as Flynn, I need not to question you for the wish you seek. As long as you do not bring conflict to my home, know that you will find it open should you need sanctuary."

Tokiomi bowed respectfully, satisfied with the unexpected boon. Finishing to eat his plate and drinking the offered mead, he found himself curious about the absence of his Servant. Was he standing guard outside? The precaution would be commendable, but it could appear as a slight against their host and being untrusting of his protection. A shift in space rippled, making his hair stand and in an instant Saber appeared in the hall. But not alone: held in his hand was a demon with the appearance of the young woman with long pink hairs circled by a golden ring, wearing brightly colored clothes adorned with orbs. And for all intent and purpose, it seemed to be… pouting?

"She was trying and failing to enter, Master." Helpfully said Saber, which seemed to only make the demon pout even harder.

"It's not my fault! Those doors are sooooo heavy!" whined the creature with a childish voice before her eyes fell on the god sitting at the table.

"Nymph." Tyr said, his voice filling the room and making the demon shrivel. "For what purpose do you come to my home uninvited?"

"Please don't kill me, great god! I was just following Flynn!"

"At whom orders? The Fairy Queen? The Devil's Auction?"

"No, noooooo! Nozomi doesn't know! I just wanted to speak! Pinky promise!" Panicked the small demon.

"Did you say Nozomi?" Suddenly asked Saber.

"Yes! Yes! She is here, I want to help! You can help! I saw you beat that big dummy; I know you can! Please!"

Saber opened his hand, letting the demon fly in front of him with a pleading pose, hand joined in prayer, before turning toward Tyr and bowing so deep she almost did a flip.

"I'm sorry, great god! Please forgive me! I just wanted to talk to Flynn! I'm leaving right after, I'm not bothering! Please!"

"Master, I believe it would be best to hear Napaea." Said the Heroic Spirit, looking at his Master. "We might be able to gain a precious ally."

Tokiomi frowned, looking at the small creature that was still floating in a sorry position. It seemed their host was waiting for him to take the decision. Weighting the pros and cons, the magus found himself inclined to listen to the advice of his Servant. Saber had never been anything but correct in his decisions thus far.

"Very well. Let us hear what this demon has to say." He said, nodding toward Tyr. The god did not relax, but his gaze seemed a bit less severe at it stared down the little demon.

"Thank you thank you, thank you!" Said Napaea, twirling in the air with relief. "So hi, mister summoner! I'm Napaea, of the Fairy Race! Just yesterday Nozomi appeared in the forest with a human girl, and she told us someone would surely come to attack us and she said to prepare and her majesties Titania and Oberon and everyone is helping but she said I'm too weak and then when I was at the outskirts I saw you blast that big dummy and I thought I could help by making you bring Flynn so he could help and protect the little lady!"

"Calm down, Napaea." Said Flynn, making the little fairy stop and speak a bit slower, his charisma clearly at work.

"Sorry… so, Nozomi needs help. Her human master is just a little girl, and she is so sad, and I don't know what to do… she said she would need at least a day or two to prepare her royal illusion, or something, so I thought you could help for that time..."

"Her Noble Phantasm?" Asked Flynn, making the little demon nod with her whole body by flying up and down in the air.

"Yes, Noble Phantasm!"

"I see." Said Tokiomi, stroking his goatee in desperate need for grooming. "O Tyr, may we please discuss this matter in private?"

The Norse god nodded gravely and stood up, leaving the room.

"You too, Napaea. We will tell you right after."

"Ok!"

The fairy nodded at Saber's demand and moved on the other room as well, leaving only them both.

"So, I am guessing this Nozomi is one of the Servants that has been summoned, one that has a strong connection with the fairies. Do you believe an alliance is possible?"

"You are correct, Master. She was an ally during our life. I believe this alliance would be desirable."

"How so? And what is your exact connection with this individual?"

A bip signaled the awakening of the circuit ghost, the screen glowing bright as Saber raised his left hand at their height. Once again, the Heroic Spirit seemed to prefer leaving long winded explanation to the artificial being.

"Allow me to explain, Master Tohsaka. Nozomi was a demon hunter Master Flynn helped during a quest for the fairies. After that, Nozomi inherited the mantle of Fairy Queen and became their leader, helping Master Flynn in return during a conflict with a polytheistic alliance known as the Divine Powers. My last records indicate she left her humanity behind and ascended as true Fairy Queen, but this Tokyo is not the one we knew. Meaning, the Nozomi summoned here must have been summoned as a Famed from before her ascension. Given her preference for medium to long ranged weaponry and the knowledge we have of the Classes, there is a strong possibility she has been summoned as the Archer of the Holy Grail War.

"I see. Do you have more information about her abilities?"

"While I do not have precise information about her abilities as Servant, I can give you what I know pertaining to what she did as a human. Nozomi wields a dual barrel shotgun and a side pistol, both with a wide range of special ammunitions. Those can cause sleep, dizziness, paralysis and temporary mental control, as well as decreasing her target's parameters. She did not use her Fairy Queen power to cast spell but instead to strengthen her physical abilities, though by choice or lack of capability is unknown. The probability is high that as a Servant, being in the Fairy Forest will increases her parameters, while possibly allowing her to use a form of Authority, possibly that of the Celtic Mother Goddess Danu, which served as her mentor. I would recommend an alliance as well, Master Tohsaka. Her power and the support of the fairies would help immensely."

This was a lot more information than Tokimi had been expecting. However, none of them painted a pretty picture in his eyes. Archers were typically scouts and skirmishers with lesser abilities to defend themselves in a frontal assault, and in other circumstance he would have envisioned an easy victory, with both familiarity and power on the side of his Saber. However, the fact that this Archer was already at the place in which her power was at its highest was troubling, if the little fairy was to be believed. From another point of view, it was probably closer to fighting a Caster with an already established workshop and an army ready to fight at its side, some of those potentially as strong as a Heroic Spirit in their own right. To meet them in that place would be too dangerous, even in the case of a friendly link between his Servant and this one. Should the Master of Archer be ruthless enough, he could break the truce and order Archer to fight with a Command Spell, catching them into a death trap. But a meeting at the forest outskirts far enough for his Servant to not lose the advantage could be conducted safely, as Saber proved capable enough to defend them both…

"There is merit to your proposal. Very well, I will accept the proposition of this Napaea."

Saber nodded, and soon enough came back with the small fairy, who looked at him expectantly with her wide green eyes.

"Tell your master we will meet her tomorrow at the forest's edge, where we defeated the Berserker. I am sure we will be able to work an arrangement."

"Yeepee! Thank you mister magus! Thank you Flynn! I'll inform Nozomi right away! She'll be so proud! See ya tomorrow!"

Napaea twirled happily in the air a few time before vanishing, leaving the Domain without a trace except the echo of her childish voice. Tokiomi massaged his temples, the prospect of a real bed and comfortable sleep seeming more and more enticing, but he still had more to do before that.

"Let us thank our host, Saber. Then, we will talk strategy…"

Morning light came in like a dream, a hazy thing which unlike dreams only became stronger and stronger, climbing up the luxurious bed until it slowly reached the eyes of the sleeping girl. Though covered in part by her violet hair, her eyelids opened and closed under the sun renewed assault in quick succession before she turned on the side, using her pillow as shield. Yet even this and the gentle contact of a hand through her hairs could not dispel her own awakening, and slowly but surely the young girl opened her eyes, welcomed by the sight of her luxurious bedchamber, and a young man with blue hair and eyes sitting on the bed side…

"Caster?" Mumbled Sakura, confused.

"Good morning, Sakura." Said Caster, a knowing smile on his lips. "Breakfast is ready."

"Oh. Thank you, Caster." Muttered the girl.

The young man smiled wider and left the room, leaving her privacy to dress. She took the white top and deep blue colored skirt, then slipped on the white sandals near the bed. Sakura's fingers froze at the contact of the small thing she had left on the chest of drawers near, what was left of a pink ribbon. Torn and stained with droplets of blood, a somber tint, a dark reminder of how she was spoiled, tainted, a monster who almost… the repressed memories coming back and haunting her like a flock of ravenous crows, cawing and croaking of her horrid deeds, of the shadow in the night, popping people like balloons, eating flesh like candies… she numbingly felt a pair of strong and gentle hands catching her, sitting her back on the bed before she lost her balance, and Sakura's gaze rose to the concerned figure of the young man holding her, a brief memory of another, red-headed boy briefly superposing with it.

"Don't worry, Sem-, Caster. I'm fine." Said Sakura meekly.

"You don't have to pretend."

He said it so gently and yet it shook her like a slap, his eyes piercing through the false smile she was trying to placate on her face. She tried to avoid his compassionate eyes, to get away from his caring touch. But her Servant didn't stop holding her. A soft warmth spread from his hands, a sweet feeling pouring over her skin, a refreshing tide upon her burning flesh. Slowly, the visions faded away, the loathing recessed into the depth of her mind, and the loud beating of Sakura's heart calmed down. The blue-haired boy observed her carefully before stopping his healing spell and leaving the room, quickly coming back with a large plate of food with fish, rice, seaweed and miso soup. They ate on the bed silently, finishing with Sakura thanking Caster for the food.

"Kikimora helped me cook it." Explained Caster, pointing at the floating demon wearing a red hood and green dress that appeared at the door. Her face, hands and feet were akin to that of a bird, she came in quickly and took the plate away while bowing to the boy. "Do you feel better, now?"

"I… I really feel better now, Caster. I promise…" Assured Sakura, before trailing as the Servant offered her the ribbon. She hovered above the small patch of tissue before catching it and attaching it to her hairs, its weight between her fingers feeling so much more than what it was physically.

"I will leave the Club today to investigate the city."

The violet-haired girl nodded, understanding that he would be going alone. Caster didn't need her to be close to be supplied with mana, and she would only end up a burden for him, an easy target for demons and other Masters or Servants…

"In the meantime, I have found someone to take care of you." Continued Caster, and she raised her head with surprise. "She will accelerate your recovery better than I can currently and train you to use your magic. Don't worry, Sakura. She will not let any harm come to you." He added at her instinctual recoil at the word 'training',

"If you say so, Caster." Weakly approved Sakura, rising from the bed.

The blue-haired boy offered her a comforting smile before standing as well, taking out a strange looking phone from his pocket and tapping on the screen. For such a brief instant that Sakura would have missed if not for her attention being directed at him, his eyes flashed red. A bright pentacle appeared at the center of the room, its light intensifying before a form emerged from the ground, quickly growing taller than both Sakura and Caster. With a final flash, the pentacle disappeared, leaving only the summoned demon in full view: what could have passed for an incredibly tall woman wearing black leather shorts, boots and gloves, with asymmetric belts on her right arm and left legs, and a top with such a large cleavage it barely covered her chest. Metal spikes adorned her shoulder pads and knees, as well as a metal collar linked to her back by a chain, and a star-shaped talisman was hanging from the left side of her top. In her hands was a leather whip with a metallic, spiky handle. But what shattered the illusion of humanity were the three heads of the demon: a lion's head with red eyes at the center, a dog's head with blue eyes on the right and a horse's head with yellow eyes on the left.

"Hm…? You're looking for me, Tyrant Hecate? Hmhmhm… Not a bad idea on your part, Overlord." Said the demon in a distinctively feminine voice emerging from the lion's head, while the dog's head turned toward Sakura. "Have you brought me an offering? How delicious looking she is…"

"She will be your apprentice for the days to come." Said Caster with an authority and gravity she had not heard of him before. "You will also cure her damaged body and spirit."

"An apprentice? Is that so?" Asked the demon through her dog's head directed at Sakura, stroking her whip. "She seems quite healthy from afar."

"About two-third of her nervous system is seriously damaged, as well as most of her internal organs. Her soul has also been corroded by curses to a large extent, hampering her ability to use magic. Hariti stabilized her but cannot do more, nor can I until a few more days."

Sakura shamefully looked away at the clinical enunciation of the state she was in. It was her fault. All of it was her fault. Caster barely managed to keep her alive the first night. He had exhausted almost all his mana on the road to the Club to sustain her, leaving them so vulnerable it was pure luck they avoided demonic attention. If they had not found the place when they did, her weakness would have killed Caster…

"Very well, Overlord. I will nurture this little one as I have done for her predecessors." Said the demon with its leonine head before addressing Sakura with her canine one. "I will obey my Overlord. Show respect and obedience, and I will make you a witch worthy of standing alongside Circe and Medea."

"Y-yes! Thank you for having me!" Replied Sakura quickly, clenching her hands together and bowing deeply. "Thank you too, Caster."

The boy simply waved at her with a last smile before leaving the room. A sharp crack on the ground instantly brought Sakura's attention back to the demon having just used her whip to bring attention back.

"Your lessons start now." Declared the three-headed demon with all its heads at once.

At the entrance of the club, Kazuya savored the feeling of fresh outside hair, adjusting his hood and mantle so that he wouldn't be too easily recognized. The third day, already. Though technically he had been summoned at the edge of the night of the first day, his Noble Phantasm apparently took it into account as a full day, making yesterday the second day and today the third, or rather first he would be able to act without worry. He was aware he was not entirely invincible, but Caster had to take risks. Buying Hecate's expensive services cost him the near entirety of the resources he had obtained from Lilith through the Devil's Auction, with the confirmation that five out of the other six Servants have been sighted. He didn't have the funds to buy for their identities or location, but such things would be available in due time. Fortunately, his Master was safe. Hecate might be cruel and harsh on discipline, but she would never harm or torment her pupil. As of now, his utmost priority was to gather allies. Strolling along the street while taking special attention to the many demons walking them, Kazuya took the path leading to what was according to Lilith the Fairy Forest. The fair folk was just as likely to welcome him or to throw him out, but they were a good starting point. The Shinto gods would not welcome him in his state, and if his suspicions regarding the identity of Saber were correct, working out an alliance with them would be difficult. If both his visit to the Fairies and his demands to the Shinto gods were to be unsuccessful, he would have to seek out and find out the powerful demons acting outside the main factions…

"Hallelujah! Hallelujah, our kin! Our Lord has sent us His blessing! Hallelujah!"

The proclamations of the angels resonating thorough the church did not bother Darnic. At least at first. However, with what had been now hours upon hours of the same litany for an entire night and morning, even a magus of his caliber and patience could become bothered. While he had been assured by Rider that it would eventually cease, the resulting headache slowly creeping into the back of his head was not improving his fool mood. The humiliating process that has ended his life during the Great Grail War of Romania having happened in a church very much like this one, one would not fault him for not appreciating the atmosphere. The absence of the Supervisor was simply rotten cherry on top of the proverbial cake: the angels have assured him such absence was temporary and that he would soon meet the man, but so far, he had not seen a single trace that a human had been living here, aside the meager meal Rider had prepared him with a few old cans that definitively souring the rest of his goodwill. While the welcome his Servant had received all but guaranteed those creatures were going to subordinate themselves to his cause, their obvious disdain toward his person irritated him more than he would like to admit.

"Calm down. Think back on your defeat. Had you not listened to your emotions and charged prematurely and had you not used yourself for a fusion with Lancer, that false Ruler would not have defeated you so easily." He chided himself.

That vision was burning in him. The false Ruler of the Einzbern skewering his Servant Fionn Mac Cumhaill while being pierced in return had been the climax the third Grail War. And yet, that cheating in the system, greater than what even he did, survived and returned to slay the Nameless Vampire. Even what Darnic had learned about the current state of the world did not deter his immense resentment toward the end he suffered. If the angels and Rider were truthful about the end of humanity, then the Graal was likely now a tool pushed by the Counter Force to save what was left of the human race. That the ritual seemed to be conducted autonomously was a strong indication of that theory being true, however, the number of Phantasmal Beings around brought a sense of caution into Darnic. Some of them could very well be behind the act, searching to obtain the power for themselves. As of now, the magus had chosen to keep all manner of suspicion for himself. Rider was earnest, perhaps too much so, and his link to the angels made him in a way less trustworthy. The servant in question was with two angels of higher rank in the heart of the Church, while he waited in the priest's quarters. He desired no more interaction with the angels than they with him.

"Ah, I fear I prayed for longer than I intended. Welcome to my humble abode, lost lamb."

Darnic immediately focused on the individual that passed the door, his voice in appearance warm yet filled with condescendence, a subtle mockery he would have likely missed if not for his very long life and experience in the politic of the Clock tower.

"Father Mansemat. I had expected you much sooner." Declared the magus, examining the supposed priest with a critical eye. While the habit was clearly that of a priest, the unkept hairs and blue lipstick stuck like sore thumbs, as if hiding in plain sight the abnormality of the man. That is, if he was human at all.

"My apology, Master of Rider. It is a sad thing for me to see the sanctity of this church, the inviolability of the neutrality of this place by the rules of the Holy Grail, being left aside. I needed to ask guidance from the Lord, to feel His intent for this sacred ritual… I have received no answer yet, but certainty He works in mysterious ways."

"Then I suppose you will still uphold them personally while those angels act as they please." Freeing himself of any responsibilities in the process, of course. "If it is the words of your Lord you seek, why not ask from the one hosting the Chariot? Rider will no doubt grant you the revelation you seek."

"It is also written: 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.'" Quoted Mansemat. "I am but a humble servant unworthy of standing near those closest to the Lord."

Darnic was seeing clearly through the ploy of the priest, whose words were without a doubt carefully chosen to not outright lie yet withheld the truth nonetheless. There was something in his eyes, not simply the contempt shown in his words, but a detachment, a distance from what it meant to be human that he himself, who devoured the soul of children to preserve his own being, could barely recognize. That impression disappeared as soon as he seemed to grasp it when with an amiable gesture, Mansemat moved toward the door of the Church's crypt.

"I feel my presence is unwelcomed. I will not put your patience to the test any longer, Master of Rider. Please enjoy the meager comfort this humble church will provide you. And remember, Darnic Prestone Yggdmillennia, that while the Lord works in mysterious ways he does not tolerate arrogance."

The door closed on this ominous statement, with the cold of the unsaid preventing the magus from making a faux pas. He had never given anyone his middle name to anyone in that place, not even Rider. And that individual deliberately used it. A warning and a threat. If he chose to follow Mansemat behind that door, the chances were great he would suffer consequences he was not yet prepared to accept. No, he did not survive for so long at such a high position in the Clock Tower by being a fool. Rider was the key of changing the balance of power between them, but he would need to be subtle. Something was amiss that he had to discover and understand.

"Master, it is time. Kazfiel and Aniel are waiting for you."

The telepathic message from Rider came just at the right time… or perhaps, Mansemat sensed the right time to flee as Darnic's Servant was about to contact him. The song of the angels had ceased, and in an almost complete silence the magus reached the choir, where Rider was waiting with a genuinely respectful attitude. Floating above the ground were the two heralds Aniel and Kzafiel, rigid as statues or perhaps machines, their attention solely focused on Rider and ignoring him entirely until he reached a certain distance from his Servant.

"Son of man. Thou receiving the Lord's Chariot means He has blessed thy wish." Stated Aniel, his six red wings barely moving with his voice. "Our forces will support thy efforts and open the path to those bearing marks of obedience."

"Thou shall prevail against them by the blessing of Our Lord. None shall prevent the return of the Lord's flock, all according to His will." Continued Kazfiel, his sword catching the morning sun's shine.

A new satisfaction took place and chased away the accumulated annoyance he had suffered all this time, not forgotten, especially that plotting snake of a priest, but appeased for now. Rider had succeeded, and now they possessed not only the supposedly neutral ground of the Church as base of operation, but the loyalty of an army of fanatic. And as his experience with the Nazis proved, fanatics were quite easy to manipulate.

"Fear not, Master. Even without their direct assistance against the other Servants, I have no doubt we will succeed. No demons shall interfere, and should our enemies collude with them they will become subject to the angels' rightful fury." Reassured Rider, a hand upon his heart.

"I have no doubt we will succeed, Rider. You have done remarkably well."

And Darnic was sincere in his words, as his hand clenched his staff in anticipation. Before, his wish had been to reach the Root and the continuation of his clan, an ultimate mockery for those at the Clock Tower that had decided his work would amount to nothing and disappear in obscurity. But now, with nothing left of the world of man but himself once the war would be over, he would obtain much more than that. With the Grail in his hand, he would wish for something none of those fools could have imagined. He would both reach the Root, and become the father of a new humanity. The world would belong to the Yggdmillennia alone, for eternity.

A terrible cry of pain born from an inhuman throat filled the Domain, the separate space-time shaking with the agony of its genitor. The coral covered walls were covered in rancid acids, smoldering in some part and frozen in other while the ground was barely more than fractured rubble. With a barrel roll the massive sea monster looking like a ray manta with a crown and a near human face avoided the torrent of fire sent its way only to be caught by a closed fist on his tail. Once, twice the demon was flung on the walls, its dispersing essence taking the form of blood and torn apart flesh as he was finally thrown on the ground, scraping the uneven surface with a shredding sound.

"… H-hey! Just give up already!" Whined the creature as it tried to fly from the ground.

Its opponent didn't answer and rushed it with terrifying speed. Panicking and agonizing the ray manta opened its maw and exhaled a white fog covering everything it touched in ice. The opponent barely seemed to notice the attack and evaded it by an inch. Its fist buried itself in the gray flesh right under the throat of the demon. Immediately after a bluish blade of energy sprung to life from the closed fist and was violently rammed down, gutting the entire demon in a single slash. The spring of gore and blood dissipated slowly in a stream of flowing red energy, just as the entire structure around seemed to vibrate, then collapsed. Soon there was nothing around the victor but a dirty, ruined alleyway, as well as the swirling demonic energy left from the vanquished demon. With a dissatisfied "tch", he walked toward the entrance of the alley where the sound of coughs could be heard before standing in front of the sickly man in front of him.

"Don't you die on me." Threatened the Demi-Fiend before grabbing his barely conscious Master and unceremoniously shoving the magatsuhi inside his body.

The human choked, almost letting out a scream before the tattooed Servant covered his mouth violently with his hand, bruising his cheeks.

"Shut up. You'll attract attention." Scornfully said the Servant, uncaring that the human was not in a state to understand.

The spams lasted for a few minutes, arms and legs trashing out without effect against the impervious body of the Demi-Fiend as the foreign energy and the body fought against each other, veins popping up left and right, blood coming out of the wide-open eyes, nose and ears. Finally, the struggling ceased, the body went limp and unceremoniously dropped. A cough, more violent than before, and the Master opened his eyes. Breathing in and out, chopped by more cough, but he managed to get on his knees, then stand up miserably with the help of the dilapidated wall nearby.

"Finally awake?"

"Berserker…" Another cough almost dropped him on his knees, but he grits his teeth and stays up. "What did you d-"

"Saved your life. I'm not going to lose because you can't even be a working battery." Retorted Demi-Fiend. "Had to chase preys all around the place to give you magatsuhi."

The white-haired man shivered in his hoodie, feeling some strength coming back to him, the cough lessening. His memories were a blur, his brain barely coming up with a coherent thought. He had been… In a fight. Someone… Tokiomi! Or… was it?... At the time, he thought… But now, how to be sure…

"That man… Was he… Tokiomi?"

"Don't know. Don't care. I could have killed him and his Rider if you didn't collapse." Growled Berserker.

Kariya Matou breathed long and hard, ignoring the pain plowing through every single movement of his throat and limbs. Sakura. The vision of the little girl in the pit worm reignited a fire. Save her. He had to win for her. Familiars… the worms. He didn't feel them. Inside or outside. It felt… wrong. Or right? A trap of Zouken? Or not?... a flash of pain, but he gritted his teeth through, his left eyes barely seeing anything. The church. Something at the Church… it stirred his mind.

"How far are we… the Church. Take me there."

"Forget it. Angels are crawling all over the place." Scoffed Berserker. "You can't even give me enough mana for my Noble Phantasm. They'll kill you easily."

Kariya winced, feeling faintly the few reserves he had now were only due to his Servant having helped him in some way. Was it the same day…? Or another? He wasn't hungry. Nor thirsty. He wasn't sure what was happening. But it didn't matter. Looking at Berserker's stats, it was clear he was the weak link preventing their victory. They needed power. More power. He said something about… Preys. Not humans, they weren't apparently any…

"You can eat them… right? Let's find some. More. You'll have mana. And we'll win." Articulated the Master, pushing on his legs despite the terrible pain and exhaustion. "Let's… go. Now."

"You think you can move?" Challenged the Servant harshly, but the decolored man simply grunted and stood up, making one step after another.

"I am. I'll do. I will win… Tokiomi… Just wait…"

Seeing the human mutter and push on despite his frankly terrible state, the Demi-Fiend grabbed him by the shoulder, his demonic strength easily holding the man. A brief green and blue light shone, and when he released his grip the man's breathing was less hissing, his posture more stable.

"That should do it for now. Don't slow me down." Threatened the Demi-Fiend.

However, this time, his voice held something else than contempt. A hint of respect, toward a man who proved he would not simply let himself be lugged around. The mismatched pair walked toward Chiyoda, unaware and uncaring respectively of the many eyes following them in the shadows…

Chapter Text

The large trees of the forest edge welcomed Saber and his Master once again with their towering height. Tokiomi's body was in a much better shape thanks to the good night sleep and rich food he had been given in the home of Tyr, enough that he felt comfortable to exercise his magic circuit in preparation for the upcoming encounter. While his jeweled cane and the years of magical energy stored inside has been absent since his awakening, he still was a competent magus and could lend his support to Saber should the need arise. Not that he expected a battle for now: the encounter with Archer was supposed to be strictly courtesy, the possibility of making an alliance. To fight so close to her territory would be a terrible mistake, especially since Saber had no tool to trap her in place and prevent her to move or call to help. Few demons have had the temerity to approach them, even though most of them had thrown curious gazes in his direction. Saber spoke to those and coaxed them out of information, once again proving his way with words was both insane and much more effective than it should have any right to be.

As for the news themselves… they were more concerning than he would have admitted aloud. A human accompanied with a powerful demon had been slaughtering demons and destroying their Domains one by one in another part of the city. Tokiomi knew it was another Master and suspected his goal: to feed their Servant the mana they could not provide themselves. Had this been the original war, such disrespect of the secrecy of the Gail War would have caused him to press Risei and enact a hunt with the rest of the participants, but it was meaningless in this ruined Tokyo. What was worrying was the blatant disregard for precaution such actions were showing. While most demons were lower phantasmals unable to rival a Servant, Tokiomi's encounter with the Divine Spirits Maya and Tyr clearly demonstrated they were not at the top of the power pyramid. Either this Master was incapable of controlling his Servant, too desperate to hide, or the worst-case scenario, their Servant was strong enough that they did not care.

The other worrying new was a sudden and massive spike of activity from the angels. Instead of keeping guard of their bastions like they did for decades, they had suddenly started to move in great numbers around the church. While the magus had the reassurance the angels would not interfere with the Holy Grail War, to be caught in the crossfire of their conflicts with the demons would be highly dangerous and counterproductive. If Archer was to offer a valuable enough alliance, her ability to watch over long distances would be a valuable asset to spot the places of conflicts and avoid them. That is, if she was amenable to work with. Despite Saber reassurance on the matter and the Archer class ability to act independently, if the opposing Master was set on the warpath there would be few actions to take except retreat. Saber's Charisma could help in the matter, though his Servant told him already his ability to… do what he called "negotiating" worked mostly against demons. When they reached the spot where the obnoxious demon had been defeated, Tokiomi had all his plans ready for however the conversation would turn.

"Soo, you've come."

A silhouette detached itself from the deeper part of the forest. An elegant blond woman in red jacket, several firearms hanging from her belt and back. Tokiomi easily recognized Archer from the description Saber and his circuit advisor made, before he used his vision as Master to confirm her class and abilities. Predictably, her stats were lower than those of Saber with the exception of her Luck reaching an outstanding A+.

"Hello, Flynn. Sorry for not bringing my Master here, but I cannot risk having her hurt. Don't worry, I don't intend to bring your Master harm either."

"It's okay, Nozomi. I'm glad to see you."

"Me too. Sorry for Napaea, she always gets too excited for her own good… So, how about we go down to business?" Said Archer, looking at Tokiomi in the eyes.

"Greeting, Archer. I am the Master of Saber, Tohsaka Tokiomi." The magus bowed slightly with politeness. "Would your Master be amenable to discuss a potential alliance?"

"Maybe. I'd like to be on the side of Flynn for sure, but I'm not so sure about you. What's your goal in this war?"

"To reach the Swirl of the Root, of course, as all magi thrive for. Is it not the motivation of your own Master, Archer?"

"Not really. I'm sure Nappaea told you I can't leave the forest for now, and neither will I leave my Master defenseless until I'm confident she is safe. Understanding what's going on with this war would be our most pressing worry at the moment."

"I see. Very well, as a sign of goodwill I shall explain the situation to you." Said Tokiomi, considering the information a meager weight in the negotiation. But soon after finishing to explain what he had learnt at the Church, he found the blonde frowning with suspicion.

"This is all too convenient. There have been no humans anywhere in Japan for almost a century and this priest simply reappears? Just in time for this supposed grail war?"

"I understand your suspicions, Archer. However, the Church is a neutral entity in this war. The angels themselves are participating in the accomplishment of the ritual as watchers. Surely their intervention justifies the survival of a pious man."

"I have had enough experience with angels and their lord, and they are rarely acting out of the best interest of anyone but themselves. The war itself is suspicious, especially if they are involved."

"Come now." Said Tokiomi, finding his patience being tested as inexplicably intense irritation pointed through his emotions. "Without the Grail, your manifestation would not have happened, your Master would not be here. Is it not the proof the ritual is happening as we speak?"

"In case you did not realize, it's been a long time since materializing a soul has lost its status as True Magic by your standard, and there are being powerful enough to accomplish such feats here without the grail. This whole affair is far too suspicious to blindly trust the words of that so-called priest or that the grail is truly present."

Tokiomi was starting to think the Servant in front of him was playing a game on him. Testing his resolve? Preparing an ambush and riling him up to lower his guard? Trick him into entering in conflict with the Church? Maybe trying to form an alliance with it was a mistake. The circumstances may be different, but he was still going to fight and win the Holy Grail War, and if this Archer was trying to make him stumble in such a blatant…

"Master, please calm down. Nozomi has no ill intent, you can be certain of that."

The voice of Saber dispersed the magus' thoughts and focused his attention again. His posture as rigid and straight as always, Tokiomi broke the starring with Archer to look at his Servant, who was now addressing Archer.

"We can investigate another time. The other Masters will come for us regardless. It would be better to focus on why we came here for."

Archer visibly relaxed at the words of her old acquaintance, her frown turning into a more amenable expression.

"You're right. Sorry for dumping my and my Master's worries on you, Tohsaka."

"Your apology is accepted." Graciously said Tokiomi, reminding himself the benefits an alliance will bring. "Tell your Master I would be honored to meet and help them appreciate the situation."

"Duly noted. We can't the offer now, but…"

Archer's expression became stern. In a blink the shotgun on her back was in her hand and cocked menacingly.

"Whoever you are, come out. You can't hide from me here."

Tokiomi registered the weapon wasn't pointed toward him just as Saber had taken position at his side, his katana guarding him from the same direction, leaving his back exposed to Archer. But his attention was soon attracted by the silhouette detaching from the trees, soon arriving in clear view. A hooded figure of humanoid size strolling quietly, lowering his hood to reveal a human visage. An adolescent, almost a boy, with blue hairs and eyes and a relaxed attitude, his hands in his pockets.

"Good morning everyone, I'm Caster. Sorry to interrupt you, I just heard your voices and came in to check."

The magus almost believed him to be a Master at first. He looked incredibly ordinary and had no presence to speak off, barely feeling like a Servant. A quick look at its stats confirmed them to be very well within the scope Tokiomi expected for a Caster, pitiful in all regards save for Mana, which was still at an oddly low C.

"It's nice to meet you, Flynn, Nozomi, Master of Saber. Can I get in the truce as well? I just came to talk with the Fairy Queen."

Archer looked at Tokiomi, who pondered for an instant. The low parameters of Caster made him an unlikely menace, but he could very well hide a powerful Noble Phantasm. But with two Servants against him, there were little chance for him to do anything. And it may be an opportunity to either eliminate him afterward, gain information or add him into a greater alliance.

"Very well. Since we are already in good circumstances, I agree to a truce for the duration of this conversation." Said the magus. Archer nodded and put her rifle aside, while Saber lowered but did not sheath his blade.

"Thank you. Should I wait for you to finish?" Said Caster politely, bowing a little.

"I don't think it's necessary. What do you want from the Fairy Queen, Caster?" Asked the woman, still on her guard.

"I'd like to form an alliance with the Fairies. And by extension with you, the Fairy Queen."

"By extension, really."

"I didn't mean to say you were unimportant. But I wish most of all is the support of fairykind against the angels. Your assistance in the Grail War would be nice, but it's not something I think will happen for now." Caster spared a glance at Saber and Tokiomi. "So, what do you say?"

"I say no. Why are you seeking conflict with the angels? As far as I'm aware, they aren't intervening in the grail war."

"That's true for now. I've learned they have been looking to start another little crusade on Tokyo and its inhabitants. The Devil's Auction, whom I made deal with, has serious suspicions they are looking to launch a total war this time around, and in that case, they will target anyone having dealt with demons, neutrality or not. I have my own reasons to oppose them, and I thought making this alliance was the best course of action."

"Sorry, but I still refuse. If the angels come, then I will fight them as the Fairy Queen, but I won't let myself or the fairies be roped into that war if I can avoid it."

"Well, I tried." Sighed Caster. "Can I just ask a favor then? I'm looking for a friend. A Black Frost called Frosty. If he is in your forest, can you tell him I'm here?"

"I… don't see why not. But I'm going to need a bit more details. Frosty is a popular nickname among the Frost."

"You will recognize him easily. He will tell you he fights in the name of love and justice."

Both Saber and Archer looked at Caster with surprise, as if the Servant had announced it would rain rabbits and leprechauns.

"You're joking."

"I'm not. He also really likes magical girls." Said Caster with a grin.

"I'm going to hold you on to that." Said Archer with disbelief and amusement in equal parts, before turning to Tokiomi and once again take on her business attitude. "Sorry, I must leave now. I'll speak about our meeting with my Master and contact you afterward, alright?"

"I believe it acceptable. Farewell, Archer." Said Tokiomi.

The blonde reciprocated the goodbye before leaving in her spirit form. Saber's sword was still low, but ready to be brought up at any indication of hostility. Sign that Caster didn't seem to be pressed to give, still as strangely relaxed as before.

"Before we call this truce off, can I ask something?"

"I am willing to listen." Acquiesced Tokiomi, unnerved by the casual attitude of that Caster yet showing nothing but the elegant and calm befitting of a magus. If Caster wanted a fight, he had to have some ace up his sleeve.

"What do you remember of ț̷̨̨̨̢̞̯̳̞̫̳̜̖̹͗̎͑́̐̑͜ḧ̸̲͍̰̦̬̖͕́͂ͅͅe̵̩͉̭̞̖̊ ̵̡̻̤̘̘̆̐̏̇͛̽̍p̸̹̿̍̅̓͂̈́̔̈́́͜͝͠r̸̡̠̱̰͍̳̈͊e̴͇͆̄̍̓v̵̢̡͚̲͒̉ȉ̴͍̝͔͚̩̲̪̤͕͑͋͌͋̆̄͗̆̚͠ŏ̸̧͔̣̞̘̮̥̰̮̤̯͚̯ų̶͚͈͍͚̥̱͍͕̝̜̦͋͛̌́́͑͌̈́̔̊͜͝ͅś̴̢̨͉̮̫̟͇̍̂͗́͊̒̈̚̕͜ ̸̲̹̻͗͒̎̅̄́̂̈́̑͆̿̓̿͝G̵̲̟͔̲̭̭͔̲̣̻͖͖͋̆͜͝͝r̴̠̅͑̀̆̎̕̕͠a̶̝̞̱̣̟̟̰̦̘͎͂͊̀̋̑̓̑i̷͚̹̱̝̝̻̤̿̈́͛̂̀ͅl̷̛̜̜͓̣̣̉̓͆̉͂̇ ̷̨̛̣̻̘͉͓̭̠̟̬͙͕̰̲́͗͗̑̎̌̾̎͑̊̚͝W̶̜̭͉̻͙͈͇͉͔̦͚̪̙͂̌̆́́̍͠à̶̡̢̪̤̬̯͓̳͙̣͓̤͚̳͆̃͐̑r̸̨̡̠͙̠̥̫̲̞̦̘̋̽̏̈́̓̋̆̐͘̚?"

Pain. A flash of pain tore through Tokiomi's head. No words, no thoughts. Blinding pain, searing pain through his head and back, a wildfire burning nerves and mind…

Tokiomi blinked. What just happened? The Servants had started their fighting. Caster used elemental spells almost identical to those Saber had demonstrated, although apparently much weaker. They flew with accuracy at Saber but the Servant's Magic Resistance nullified them, and he quickly reached the blue-haired boy and in a single stroke… the sword stopped abruptly on Caster's neck. A blunt sound signaled the punch Caster managed to land on the samurai, destabilizing him but not long enough and the next hit was blocked easily before Flynn stroke, again aiming for Caster's midsection, yet the hit didn't even dent his coat.

"Master Flynn, physical and Gun attacks are useless." Came in the voice of the mechanical ghost.

Saber jumped back and made a gesture. A pillar of ice erupted under his foe without effect, the ice breaking at Caster's contact. The enemy Servant dusted his coat before dashing forward and Tokiomi saw with incredulity Saber unleash a barrage of weaker spells identical to those Caster had previously used, each of them differing and each failing to damage the boy. The magus focused attentively. There was something different between the way Caster and Saber nullified those attacks.

"Elemental attacks are useless." Constated the ghost in circuit, once again citing the obvious.

When Caster reached close quarter, where the Heroic Spirit of the sword demonstrated a total domination in both speed and strength, yet none of his assault seemed to be able to hurt the enemy servant. Tokiomi was growing more unnerved, realizing exactly the difference. Saber's Magic Resistance cancelled the spell as soon as it entered in contact with him, but Caster was taking them directly and purely and simply unaffected. It wasn't Magic Resistance, but some sort of supernatural protection. A Noble Phantasm most probably, and the likely reason why the Servant had approached them so confidently. Saber retreated once again, and Tokiomi realized his Servant was now just before him. Caster had done nothing but gain terrain from the start of the fight. The magus readied himself…

"Megido."

A violet orb was propelled from Saber's left hand above right after he muttered the spell, the unstable mass of energy flying above Caster before exploding. Nearby trees crashed down and splintered, the ground caved and fractured. Yet as the blinding flash dissipated, the boy was once again unharmed, a smirk on his lips.

"Incredible. Almighty has no effect as well. Master Flynn, I suggest a retreat."

"Agreed. Hold on tight, Master."

Before Tokiomi could say anything, the samurai grabbed him in bridal carry and ran. Everything became blurry as the Servant moved at such speed the magus could barely make for the road and buildings as they instantly left the forest, zigzagging all around the place. Only a general use of reinforcement on his body prevented Tokiomi from feeling dizzy when Saber finally put him down and allowed him to recognize the general area surrounding the Domain of Tyr.

"Are you alright, Master?"

"I am fine, thank you Saber." Said Tokiomi, dusting his shirt of the few leaves and the dirt that had fallen on him. "While he appears weak, Caster's apparent invincibility is troublesome. Do you perhaps know him?"

"While he appears to recognize us, he is not someone we have encountered before. Scanning results are inconclusive. I cannot identify the enemy's identity or attributes, Master Tohsaka, and no form of attack seems able to affect him. Master Flynn's Noble Phantasm might be required to deal with Caster." Voiced the gauntlet artificial being, with a tone that resembled dejection.

"I see." He said stroking his goatee. Considering Saber's Noble Phantasm was so powerful its potency could not be properly measured… "Are you certain you may not be overestimating our foe?"

"He was unaffected by an Almighty spell. No foe I faced in the past had that kind of power." Said the samurai with finality.

The violet orb. Tokiomi remembered it, something different from all the offensive he had seen before not in its effect, but in its nature itself. The spell itself had been simple, almost strangely so, yet it contained an incredible amount of power for such a quick casting. Almighty, as in a different norm of power than ordinary. It couldn't be any of the Five Great Elements… True Ether. Pure Magical Energy from the Age of Gods. It was the most likely possibility he could think of.

"Would it have affected you despite your Magic Resistance?"

"Yes." Replied Saber with finality.

Tokiomi mused for a moment over this information. He was most certainly a worrying one. Their opponent had not been simply resistant, as Saber noticed: not a single scratch had even appeared on his clothing. There must be a weakness of sort, the magus was convinced. Even the most fabled heroes and monsters all fell to a crack in their supposed invincibility: the legendary Siegried or the Nemean Lion alike were defeated after all despite being apparently impossible to wound...

Unbeknownst to the duelists, Nozomi had observed the fight from the cover of the forest. While part of her yearned to help Flynn, she reasoned he was the last person in the world to need help against a single opponent like Caster… yet as soon as the fighting truly began, she witnessed the blue-haired boy be completely unharmed by any of the attacks of her friend. She almost pulled up her rifle but seeing even an Almighty spell fail utterly to damage the boy, Flynn retreat and Caster leaving, she decided to return to the enchanted lake at the heart of the Fairy Forest.

"That's not fair, ho! You chea-he-ted, ho!"

Materializing near the border of the clearing, Nozomu smiled at the complaint of the Jack Frost playing with her Master. Before the small girl was a snowman decorated with mushroom as hair, foliage as clothes, branches as arms and may details made of different elements of the forest. By comparison, the much bigger snowman before the Jack Frost was almost naked.

"You never said anything against familiars. And you used magecraft too, so my victory is absolute!" Proudly declared Illyasviel, four birds apparently made of her hair and magic flying around and carrying chestnuts they dropped at her feet before she added them as buttons to the "mantle" of her work. The small girl was unable to run or even walk for long distances, her body unable to sustain the physical effort. Without those familiars, she would have had no way to gather all those elements for her snowman.

"She's right! And she did much better than you!" Argued a Hua Po, her rainbow wings fluttering with delight.

"It's so cool! I want to meet someone like that!" Approved a Nappaea hovering around the snowman.

"And you can eat it too! It looks delicious!" Doubled-down a Goblin, staring at the chestnuts with envy.

"Don't worry little guy. You'll do better next time." Said Nozomi to the dejected Jack Frost as she entered the clearing.

"Reall-he? You're right, ho! I'll he-mprove and win next time, ho!" The Jack Frost jumped joyfully before running off in the forest, followed by the rest of the small fairies.

"Hello again, Archer. How did it go?" Asked Illyasviel, her familiars disappearing as they became strands of hair again.

"Not too bad. Flynn is still the same as ever. Sadly, his Master is a self-righteous man to the core. He completely ignored my warnings and without Flynn, I think he would have broken negotiation here and there. Fortunately it didn't come to that. Now I think he will accept to ally with us."

"Hum hum. Perhaps we won't have to kill him then." The smile her Master sported at this declaration eerily reminded her of Toki, that same brutal and almost innocent way of saying things. "Did he give you a name?"

"He called himself Tohsaka Tokiomi."

"Tohsaka?... I know that name. He was the previous head of the Tohsaka family and died during the fourth Holy Grail War."

And Illyasviel fought in the fifth happening ten years later, remembered Nozomi. Whatever was the common point between him and her Master beyond them being magi, she was not certain to like where the answers started to point.

"Is it a problem?"

"It would have been fun to mess with Rin, but I don't care. We will use him and if he dies, I will just contract Saber in his stead."

"I guess that's a way to look at things… Alright, I'll text Flynn. Let's see… Ah. As I thought, our old numbers are still functioning." Smiled Nozomi, tapping on her phone. "And sent."

"Are you sure it's safe?" Asked her Master, eyeing the phone.

"It really is." She said, her smile dropping. "It's not all that happened, though. Caster came in as well. I'm not sure if he spied on Nappaea and Flynn, or just stumbled upon us by chance. Anyway, he asked me if I would send the fairies fight the angels for him. I refused, of course. After that, I left and observed the fight between Flynn and Caster. Even if Caster was outclassed, he seemed completely invulnerable no matter what was thrown at him, leading Flynn to leave the battle with his Master."

"Perhaps he is like Berserker, who could only be damaged by attacks of high rank."

"I don't know if that's it. But anyway, I don't think it's a good idea to ally with him. He looks the sort of person dragging others into his own plans."

"… Okay. I'll let you handle this, Archer."

Nozomi smiled at the trust Illyasviel was placing in her.

"Let's go. I'll return to materializing my Noble Phantasm, and you need some sleep."

"When will you be finished?" Asked the little girl with a mixture of impatience and curiosity.

"This evening. I knew setting it in the Fairy Forest would quicken the pace, but I didn't account properly for how much mana you are giving me. I may even be able to use my Authority beyond the limit of the forest."

Taking Illyasviel's hand, Nozomi started to walk with her, despite the girl's small grumble about being an adult. She couldn't help it, just being near her Master made her sisterly side flare up with protectiveness…

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