Apocrypha/Inheritance of Glory
Prelude
Narration:
Seven against seven.
Finally, at long last, they are all gathered.
Narration:
No Ruler has been summoned here. This Great Holy Grail War will have no effect on the world.
Narration:
The “other” Ruler is not here either.
He is already dead.
Narration:
He will never be sent here as a new Ruler now.
Narration:
In which case, this tiny, insignificant world that miraculously managed to remain...is mine.
Narration:
Yes, this is my world now.
It belongs to no one else.
Narration:
So I will repeat the cycle as many times as it takes. I will recreate the miracle, and this time I will ascend to glory.
Narration:
In the end, that is all I can do, all I can become.
And so, I have no choice but to proceed.
Fujimaru 1:
...Oh. I'm dreaming.
Fujimaru 2:
Oh, we're doing this again, huh?
Narration:
Answer me... Answer me...
Hear my call...
Narration:
Hear my call, and answer me...
Fujimaru 1:
Who is this...?
Narration:
...Hear me, O feeble mortal... Thou art the one who clears the path for destiny... Hear my call, and answer me.
Narration:
I guess I'm falling now? Or maybe just lost?
Narration:
Either way, it definitely feels like I'm falling from a huge height. I flail my arms and legs around...
Narration:
...and end up sinking into a sea of darkness.
Narration:
...Awaken, Master of Chaldea...
The great Master who answered my call...
Fujimaru 1:
Great?
Narration:
Er, yeah. You–I mean, you DID restore humanity, didn't you? That certainly seems great to me...
Fujimaru 2:
Call?
Narration:
Yup, that's wh–Er, rather...
Forsooth, great Master who hath answered my call...
Evil Dragon:
...
...
Fujimaru 1:
...
Evil Dragon:
...
...Master of Chaldea...
Evil Dragon:
Has thou regained thy sense?
Canst thou see how many fingers I do hold before thee?
Fujimaru 1:
Welp, that settles it!
Fujimaru 2:
Oh, yeah, so I AM dreaming!
Evil Dragon:
Yea, thou art correct. This is but a dream.
However, it is also quite real.
Evil Dragon:
I summoned thee hither with this Holy Grail,
while thou yet slumbered...
Evil Dragon:
It is a complicated matter to explain, but perhaps it would be best if thou thought of thyself as a sort of mental projection of thine own form.
Evil Dragon:
Thy flesh and blood body...
Evil Dragon:
...should yet slumber aboard the Shadow Border,
continuing thy journey.
Evil Dragon:
...This world is in great peril, and to survive, it will need your–er, thy help. It will need THY help. Forsooth.
Fujimaru 1:
So you mean this is a job for Chaldea, huh?
Evil Dragon:
Thou dost seem perhaps TOO accustomed to this sort of thing.
Evil Dragon:
Of course, that must be exactly why it was thee,
among all, who was summoned here.
Fujimaru 2:
I'm sorry, who are you again?
Evil Dragon:
...My name is Fafnir. I am the evil dragon who once made off with the miracle of humankind.
Evil Dragon:
So, what sayest thou?
Fujimaru 1:
Uh, what if I say no?
Fujimaru 2:
I'm guessing I can't leave until I solve this?
Evil Dragon:
Nay, shouldst thou choo–ugh... Nope.
You can refuse if you want. If you do, that's that.
Evil Dragon:
...Yeah...
I should've known.
Evil Dragon:
It was incredibly arrogant of me to call you here out of nowhere and ask you to fight.
Evil Dragon:
Don't worry about it. I'll figure something else out.
I'm terribly sorry to have bothered you like this.
Fujimaru 1:
That's so considerate... Tell me what's going on.
Fujimaru 2:
I want to know everything that's happening here.
Evil Dragon:
...I see.
Very well then, I shall start at the beginning.
Evil Dragon:
...
...
Evil Dragon:
...This is more complicated than I thought...
Hold on, let me just get everything straight...
Fujimaru 1:
It's okay. I'm not going anywhere.
Evil Dragon:
...Uh, first off, let me explain where you are right now.
Evil Dragon:
This is the Reverse Side of the World. Hmm, or maybe a hidden place on “the other side,” so to speak, is more accurate?
Evil Dragon:
Basically, you can think of it as a mythical land and the home of magical beasts.
Evil Dragon:
Your world, the human world,
is built on human laws.
Evil Dragon:
...This world, however,
is entirely removed from those laws.
Evil Dragon:
This may be difficult to understand, but your world came to exist once humanity had covered the entire planet, like a cloth.
Evil Dragon:
But before that could happen,
beings called Phantasmals fled here.
Evil Dragon:
Of course, I hear that Phantasmals have been showing up in your world again as well, now that humanity is in such disorder.
Fujimaru 1:
Sorry to interrupt, but...you mean like wyverns?
Evil Dragon:
Yes, that's right.
Fujimaru 2:
Phantasmals? Like what?
Evil Dragon:
Wyverns, bicorns, chimeras...
Creatures like that.
Evil Dragon:
They're supposed to live here, in this world, though. They shouldn't be visiting yours as though it were some sort of café.
Evil Dragon:
Now, this land is in grave danger,
thanks to the Greater Grail I brought here.
Fujimaru 1:
Greater Grail...?
Fujimaru 2:
As in, the one that was in Fuyuki...?
Evil Dragon:
You really DO know your stuff.
Evil Dragon:
I don't know what happened in your world, but in mine,
I had no choice but to bring the Greater Grail here to the Reverse Side.
Evil Dragon:
Otherwise it would have caused all kinds of problems, you see.
Evil Dragon:
There was a problem, though. A certain Noble Phantasm partially destroyed the Greater Grail.
Evil Dragon:
Even so, things were fine until now...
Evil Dragon:
...but then, even though I didn't do anything,
it just kind of...broke. On its own.
Fujimaru 1:
Suuure it did.
Evil Dragon:
No, really, I didn't do anything.
I'm sure I didn't...
Evil Dragon:
I may have a few gaps in my memory, but I'm fairly certain nothing happened during those gaps.
Fujimaru 2:
You expect me to believe that!?
Evil Dragon:
...I mean...I don't think I did, anyway.
I'll admit my memory is a little hazy, but even so...
Evil Dragon:
A-at any rate, the real problem...
Evil Dragon:
...is that a Holy Grail War is taking place inside the damaged Greater Grail.
Fujimaru 1:
Did you say...a Holy Grail War...?
Evil Dragon:
Yup.
Evil Dragon:
A miniature war between Servants is being waged inside the very Greater Grail they want to control.
Evil Dragon:
I haven't actually seen any of the battles myself, but I know how many there have been. Just looking at the numbers here, it's been over ten thousand now.
Evil Dragon:
At first there were only two Servants. By the 567th Holy Grail War, there were four, and by the 2313th, there were seven.
Evil Dragon:
...That was when my control of the Greater Grail started to waver.
Evil Dragon:
That is to say, someone is trying to take over the Greater Grail and use it for themselves.
Evil Dragon:
If something isn't done, the Greater Grail will continue to spin out of control until it's completely destroyed.
Evil Dragon:
And that would be...a problem.
Fujimaru 1:
Problem?
Evil Dragon:
Yes, a big problem. You see, this Greater Grail isn't mine. I'm just holding on to it.
Evil Dragon:
I don't have any right to use it myself,
and I can't let anyone else use it either.
Evil Dragon:
I have to take good care of it.
Evil Dragon:
If the Greater Grail went out of control, that would cause a great deal of trouble for all the Demonic Beasts who live here...
Evil Dragon:
It's even possible that an event like that, or its aftermath, could damage one of the anchors that holds the world together.
Evil Dragon:
If the cloth–or texture, if you like–is torn, the laws of physics will be turned on their heads, and the Age of Gods will end up mixing with modern times.
Evil Dragon:
And that...wouldn't end well for anybody. Humans and Demonic Beasts would only end up hurting each other.
Evil Dragon:
So I'm asking you now:
Will you help me save this world?
Fujimaru 1:
...Okay, I'll give it a shot.
Evil Dragon:
Really...!?
Fujimaru 2:
If there's something I can do to help...
Evil Dragon:
...!
Evil Dragon:
Thank you!!!
Evil Dragon:
[[File:berserkervoice1.png50px]][[File:berserkervoice2.png50px]]
Evil Dragon:
[[File:berserkervoice1.png50px]][[File:berserkervoice2.png50px]]
Evil Dragon:
?
???
Evil Dragon:
...Are you okay?
Is something wrong?
Fujimaru 1:
(Gesture at your ears)
Evil Dragon:
...I'm so sorry.
Evil Dragon:
It's been so long since I actually spoke that I've forgotten how to do it at an appropriate volume.
Fujimaru 2:
(Write on the ground)
Evil Dragon:
Oh, I see. I'm sorry.
I guess I got a little carried away...
Evil Dragon:
Ahem. Very well then, Let me try that again:
I want you to ride on my back.
Evil Dragon:
We'll need to dive into the domain within the Greater Grail itself.
Fujimaru 1:
So...I'm gonna get to be a dragon rider!?
Evil Dragon:
Yes. You may be the first to do so since humanity began using the Gregorian calendar.
Fujimaru 2:
Oh man, I'm gonna get to be a dragoon!
Evil Dragon:
Ah, that is a popular misconception. A “dragoon,”
I am afraid, is not one who rides a dragon.
Evil Dragon:
Though I do admit,
it has a very nice ring to it.
Evil Dragon:
Anyway, just climb up and grab one of my scales. Now, hold on... This will be my first flight in over ten years!
Section 1: Dive, Inner World
Evil Dragon:
As I thought, Trifas has been recreated...along with the Assassin of Red's Hanging Gardens.
Evil Dragon:
I'm surprised this world has been crafted with such detail, though... Who could have done this, and what could they be after?
Fujimaru 1:
Sorry, what's Trifas?
Evil Dragon:
A small city in Romania where a Great Holy Grail War took place. ...Hmm. I see there are a number of Dragon Tooth Warriors and golems roaming about.
Evil Dragon:
But those should be no trouble.
I'll just go ahead and burn them all.
Fujimaru 1:
That was amazing!
Evil Dragon:
Why thank you.
Evil Dragon:
I shouldn't be too proud; this isn't something I trained hard to be able do or anything like that. Still, it's nice being complimented.
Fujimaru 2:
Yeowch, that's hot!
Evil Dragon:
Ah, sorry.
I guess I got a little carried away...
Evil Dragon:
All right, let's just land here and then we'll–
Evil Dragon:
Uh oh...! There are Servants here...and they're wasting no time attacking us!
Evil Dragon:
Khh...!
Evil Dragon:
This light...
That's Vasavi Shakti!
Fujimaru 1:
Karna's Noble Phantasm!?
Evil Dragon:
Ghh...
Sorry! I'm going down...!
Evil Dragon:
...Are you all right...?
Fujimaru 1:
More or less...
Evil Dragon:
My wings are pretty messed up.
I won't be able to fly for a while.
Evil Dragon:
I'm afraid I misjudged the situation...
I'm so sorry.
Fujimaru 1:
So, those were Servants we just ran into?
Evil Dragon:
...Not exactly.
At least, not in the true sense of the word.
Evil Dragon:
If we define Servants as pseudo-reproductions of people who have become Heroic Spirits, then the beings that attacked us don't quite qualify.
Evil Dragon:
If anything, they're more like...
Well, zombies, or maybe mecha.
Evil Dragon:
They're about as strong as Servants, but they have no emotions, and can't think for themselves.
Evil Dragon:
Still, as tiny as this world is, I never thought they'd be able to reproduce their Noble Phantasms...
Fujimaru 1:
They're coming!
Evil Dragon:
I'll stall them while you make your escape!
Fujimaru 2:
We've gotta get out of here!
Evil Dragon:
That could be difficult.
I'm not exactly nimble in this form...
Evil Dragon:
Get to that fortress! You should be safe there.
Then–
Evil Dragon:
Damn, looks like we're out of time!
Why you...!
Evil Dragon:
They're still coming...!
Now what are they–
Evil Dragon:
They even managed to recreate Balmung...!?
Khh...!
Fujimaru 1:
Fafnir!
Evil Dragon:
Hurry, get out of here!
If they get you too, it's all over!
???:
...Oh? It seems we have a special guest.
???:
What a surprise to see a real flesh-and-blood Master here.
Evil Dragon:
!
Fujimaru 1:
Who are you...?
???:
Custodian, let me take [♂ him /♀ her] off your hands.
I promise I shall get [♂ him /♀ her] to safety.
Evil Dragon:
Thank you. I'll catch up with you later!
???:
Okay, Master of Chaldea, get ready to run!
???:
Looks like we've got some Dragon Tooth Warriors to deal with. I will dispose of them.
???:
Oh, but first.
???:
Would you tell me your name, Master?
Fujimaru 1:
I'm Fujimaru.
???:
All right, [♂ Sir /♀ Lady] Fujimaru,
please listen to me.
???:
First, we're going to head for that fortress.
???:
My name is Chiron. I'll be happy to take care of any enemies we run into along the way.
B：Chiron:
But to do that,
I'll need someone to give me commands.
B：Chiron:
And that someone will be you, Master of Chaldea.
B：Chiron:
Now, let battle be joined!
--BATTLE--
Chiron:
That should do it.
I'm glad this rescue was successful.
Chiron:
Now, let's get out of here, shall we?
Fujimaru 1:
What about Fafnir...?
Chiron:
Yes...he was just attacked with a number of Noble Phantasms...but he seems to be no worse for wear.
Chiron:
No wonder he's been the one keeping care of the Holy Grail. He's certainly quite durable.
Fujimaru 2:
He still needs our help!
Chiron:
Not to worry.
Another Servant will be along soon to help him.
Chiron:
Rider!
The rest is up to you!
Chiron:
All right, we'd best be on our way.
Chiron:
It will be morning soon.
Chiron:
I'm not sure what you know about our current predicament...
Chiron:
...but I can explain that all once we are safe.
Chiron:
Come, let us hurry to the fortress.
Section 2: Defense: Millennia Fortress
Chiron:
It won't be long now.
Soon, the dawn will break, and they will leave.
Chiron:
That is, they will disappear.
Chiron:
After that, we just have to hope that Rider did his job properly.
Fujimaru 1:
Who is this Rider?
Chiron:
I'll tell you his True Name once he returns. First, I need to bring you up to speed on what has been happening here.
Fujimaru 2:
Can you tell me what's going on?
Chiron:
Gladly. Once the morning comes,
I will tell you everything I know.
Chiron:
...It's morning now.
Rider should return shortly.
Chiron:
You must be tired.
Why don't we take a short break?
Chiron:
Would you like something to drink?
Perhaps some coffee?
Fujimaru 1:
That would be great, thank you.
Chiron:
It may perhaps be a bit sweeter than you prefer...but I promise it will do wonders for your exhaustion.
Fujimaru 2:
So, everything's fine now that it's morning?
Chiron:
That's right. They disappear each morning.
...Well, at six o'clock in the morning, to be exact.
Chiron:
We only realized this around the 734th Holy Grail War.
Chiron:
Here you go.
Fujimaru 1:
Ooh, this is delicious.
Chiron:
I'm glad you think so.
Chiron:
So, what did the Custodian tell you when you first arrived here?
Chiron:
I can fill in anything he may have left out.
Chiron:
I see, I see...
Very well then, let me explain everything else.
Chiron:
To begin, this is not like a typical Holy Grail War.
Chiron:
It does not involve seven Masters trying to kill one another, nor even seven classes of Servants with which to do so.
Chiron:
...Ah, so you have no experience with that sort of Holy Grail War. Well, trust me when I say that that is usually how these things go.
Chiron:
Now I hope you're paying attention;
this WILL be on the test.
Chiron:
Now, this Great Holy Grail War uses the Greater Grail's emergency system from Fuyuki to wage war with fourteen Servants rather than the customary seven.
Chiron:
That is to say, it is a battle between two teams of seven Servants.
Chiron:
...However, that war had in fact already concluded,
with Fafnir emerging as the apparent victor.
Chiron:
That is how he came into possession of the Greater Grail.
Chiron:
As for us, we are reproductions of the Servants who were summoned during that Great Holy Grail War.
Fujimaru 1:
Reproductions...?
Chiron:
In this world, the only two places that exist are the city of Trifas, and of course the Hanging Gardens.
Chiron:
...I suppose you could call this a sort of simulation.
Chiron:
Aha. That seems to have helped you understand.
Chiron:
Indeed, this is all one enormous simulation field designed to recreate that Great Holy Grail War.
Chiron:
We were originally imitation life-forms, going through the motions of battle without thought or emotion.
Chiron:
However, as this seemingly endless simulation repeated itself, something unexpected happened.
Chiron:
Namely, we developed intelligence, reason,
and even regained our memories as Servants.
Chiron:
That being said, we do not remember anything about the Great Holy Grail War.
Chiron:
You might say that I'm starting over from scratch.
At least as a Servant.
Chiron:
It's only in this tiny world that we become something close to real Servants.
Chiron:
Do you understand everything we've covered so far?
If you have any questions, I'll be happy to answer them.
Fujimaru 1:
What sort of enemy are we up against?
Fujimaru 2:
Who is that dragon, anyway?
Chiron:
They are reproductions, just as we are. Unlike us, though, they have nothing in the way of intellect or reason...
Chiron:
...but what they do have are sheer numbers.
Chiron:
Of the fourteen Servants who were originally summoned to the Great Holy Grail War, we now face twelve.
Fujimaru 1:
That many!?
Chiron:
Yes, that many.
Chiron:
As we are all starting from scratch, I'm afraid I don't know any of their True Names other than the Rider on our side...
Chiron:
...but I believe the evil dragon does.
Fujimaru 1:
Who is that dragon, anyway?
Chiron:
His name is Fafnir.
He seems to be this Greater Grail's Custodian.
Chiron:
There is not a shred of doubt that he was the Great Holy Grail War's victor.
Chiron:
Though I'm afraid I have no idea how he secured his victory, or what he is doing in a place like this.
Fujimaru 1:
What sort of enemy are we up against?
Chiron:
As the Custodian, he would like this Greater Grail to stop simulating this war.
Chiron:
By rights, we should be helping him...but unfortunately, our enemies are just too strong.
Chiron:
What's more, we have not a moment to waste.
Chiron:
The other Servants have learned how to use their Noble Phantasms, despite still lacking consciousness.
Chiron:
And that brings us to the final stage of the tens of thousands of battles to the death we fourteen Servants have fought.
Chiron:
We have no choice but to repeat this battle.
Chiron:
And yet, the more we fight,
the worse the situation becomes.
Fujimaru 1:
How did you and Rider become conscious?
Chiron:
A good question.
We wondered about that ourselves for a time...
Chiron:
It is our belief now that the Custodian altered the simulation's parameters to make us into proper Servants.
Chiron:
As the Greater Grail's Custodian, it should be well within his capabilities to recreate us in this world.
Chiron:
...Though it also seems he hesitated to do so until the very last moment.
Chiron:
Had he not, we may have had a few more allies on our side.
Fujimaru 1:
How about just not fighting?
Chiron:
I'm afraid that would be difficult.
There is nowhere to seek refuge in this world.
Chiron:
Though you were fortunate enough to survive tonight,
there is no telling what tomorrow may hold.
Chiron:
They did not attack this fortress only because of the new, unexpected elements that you and Fafnir represent in the current situation.
Chiron:
Most likely, that was simply a function of the battle simulation program, rather than any thought or strategy on their part.
Chiron:
But the next time will be different.
Chiron:
Next time, I expect they will account for Fafnir in their calculations, and mount an assault on this fortress.
Fujimaru 1:
Then, what can we possibly–
C：???:
We fight till the end.
What other choice is there?
Chiron:
So you've returned, Rider.
C：???:
Sure have, Teacher.
C：???:
So, this is...
Fujimaru 1:
I'm Fujimaru.
Fujimaru 2:
I'm the Master of Chaldea.
C：???:
Hmm...
Hmm, hmm, hmm.
C：???:
I see, I see.
So you're one of those Master people!
C：???:
Sorry to bring you here just when things couldn't get any worse.
Fujimaru 1:
Um, excuse me, but...
Fujimaru 2:
I didn't catch your name.
C：???:
Oh, right, sorry 'bout that.
My True Name's Achilles.
C：Achilles:
You know about the Achilles tendon in your heel, right?
That was named after me.
C：Achilles:
I'm the guy who was completely invincible, except for a spot on his heel. Then I freakin' died when that bastard Paris shot me there with an arrow.
Fujimaru 1:
Oh, you mean this tendon?
Achilles:
Yup, that's the one.
Achilles:
Don't ever get stabbed there if you can help it.
Hurts like hell.
Chiron:
Of course, what he didn't mention was that, after he was shot, he decided to go out in a blaze of glory, wiping out a whole squadron of enemy soldiers before finally taking his own life.
Achilles:
Hell yeah! I was pretty badass back then,
if I do say so myself!
Achilles:
I was like a writer suddenly getting a flash of inspiration the night before a big deadline.
Fujimaru 2:
...Are you something of a scatterbrain?
Achilles:
What? No way!
Chiron:
Hahaha, I see you're an excellent judge of character, Master of Chaldea.
Chiron:
Right you are. He's surprisingly scatterbrained and quite absentminded.
Chiron:
It's the one thing that hasn't changed a bit since he was alive.
Achilles:
Aw, come on!
Chiron:
At any rate... Achilles, what became of Fafnir?
The Custodian?
Achilles:
He's resting in the courtyard. Go check on him if you're worried about him, Master of Chaldea.
Fujimaru 1:
It's beautiful here...
Evil Dragon:
Indeed...
Even if it is just an imitation of the real thing.
Fujimaru 1:
How badly are you hurt?
Evil Dragon:
Quite badly, I'm afraid.
Evil Dragon:
The last Noble Phantasm I took the brunt of belonged to Siegfried...the Dragon-Slayer.
Evil Dragon:
I'm afraid that, being a dragon,
I am more vulnerable to that attack than most.
Evil Dragon:
I never thought these reproductions would ever learn how to use their originals' Noble Phantasms...
Evil Dragon:
To make matters worse, we have only two Servants allied with us... Though at least they're two extremely powerful A-rank ones.
Fujimaru 1:
Did you make them into Servants?
Evil Dragon:
Yes, I did.
Evil Dragon:
The idea was to convert all fourteen reproductions into intelligent Servants and investigate who or what is making them fight...
Evil Dragon:
...but that would have been a horrible decision.
Besides, creating intelligent beings on a whim...
Evil Dragon:
Such irresponsibility would have been too cruel.
Evil Dragon:
However, my hesitation has only ended up making the situation worse.
Evil Dragon:
I never thought they could use their Noble Phantasms despite lacking the capacity for thought...
Evil Dragon:
So in a spur-of-the-moment decision, the best I could do was turn those two reproductions into Servants.
Evil Dragon:
Even so, I'm afraid that does nothing to lessen my own sins.
Evil Dragon:
I am too wounded to be able to move in this form for the time being.
Evil Dragon:
But I refuse to sit around doing nothing to help.
I'm going to make a terminal so I can join you.
Fujimaru 1:
A terminal...?
Evil Dragon:
Just a moment.
D：???:
...Mm, hmm.
Ahh, ahh, ahh.
D：???:
...There we go. It feels good to be back to this height,
and to have this voice back.
Fujimaru 1:
So, you're the terminal?
D：???:
That's right.
This terminal's name is...Sieg.
D：???:
I'm afraid it can't do as much as my dragon body can, but at least this body can move.
Evil Dragon:
...
...
Fujimaru 1:
So, what's going to happen to the dragon...?
Sieg:
He'll just have to go to sleep for a while.
Sieg:
Well, I'm not able to split my consciousness across multiple bodies...
Sieg:
Still, I can at least use my dragon body's power.
For brief moments, anyway.
Sieg:
I'm so sorry. Ever since I brought you here,
I've caused you nothing but trouble.
Fujimaru 1:
...Well, uh, in that case...
Fujimaru 2:
Nice to meet you...again.
Sieg:
...
...
Sieg:
...Oh, right!
You want to shake hands. I remember now.
Sieg:
I hope I didn't squeeze too hard.
I'm still getting used to this body.
Sieg:
Now then, I'd like to meet with the other Servant before nightfall.
Sieg:
The Archer of Black, Chiron,
is the wisest sage among the centaur.
Sieg:
So if anyone can make a plan with the information I have, it's him.
Sieg:
Maybe even one that could defeat all twelve of the other Servants, including his former allies.
Chiron:
...I'll be blunt:
there is no way we can win.
Sieg:
I see...
Fujimaru 1:
I guess twelve Servants is just too tall an order...?
Chiron:
Correct. We are simply outmatched.
Fujimaru 2:
Even if all three of you team up?
Chiron:
I'm afraid so.
Chiron:
I'm afraid that this was a conclusion I reached even taking you into account, Master of Chaldea.
Chiron:
Achilles, do you know anything about the Great Holy Grail War?
Achilles:
Not really. All I know is I saw someone who looked a lot like Vlad III during the battle.
Achilles:
Oh, I think I saw Atalante from the Calydonian Boar hunt too. Or at least, someone who matched my old man's description of her.
Achilles:
But that's pretty much it.
Sieg:
...
...
Chiron:
What about you, Sir Custodian?
Do you know anything about the other Servants?
Sieg:
...Of course.
Sieg:
All fourteen Servants are divided into two teams,
Black and Red.
Sieg:
The Black team includes Siegfried, the Saber of Black...Vlad III, the Lancer of Black...
Sieg:
Astolfo, the Rider of Black...
Avicebron, the Caster of Black...
Sieg:
Frankenstein, the Berserker of Black...
and Jack the Ripper, the Assassin of Black.
Sieg:
The Red team includes Mordred, the Saber of Red...
Atalante, the Archer of Red...
Sieg:
Karna, the Lancer of Red...
Shakespeare, the Caster of Red...
Sieg:
Spartacus, the Berserker of Red...
and Semiramis, the Assassin of Red.
Chiron:
I see, I see. Thank you, Sir Custodian.
You have an excellent memory.
Sieg:
...Just call me Sieg.
I'm not used to being called “Custodian.”
Chiron:
As you wish, Sir Sieg.
Sieg:
Anyway, I guess you have a point... We can't possibly fight all twelve of those Servants at once.
Sieg:
I guess I shouldn't have bothered trying to stop them from the outside...
Chiron:
Don't worry, Sir Sieg.
I am just getting started.
Achilles:
Aw, crap. This is gonna be bad.
Chiron:
Now, let's begin this class properly, shall we?
Chiron:
[♂ Sir /♀ Lady] Master of Chaldea,
would you do the honors?
Fujimaru 1:
Uhh... All rise!
Achilles:
!
Sieg:
!
Fujimaru 1:
Bow!
Fujimaru 1:
Be seated!
Achilles:
Wait. Why are we just sitting on the floor in the throne room?
Sieg:
I'm not actually certain myself, but...it seems to me this is more of a classroom right now.
Achilles:
Oh. Okay. Great.
Chiron:
Now then, our lesson for today will be...
Chiron:
“How to Defeat All Twelve Black and Red Enemy Servants.”
Achilles:
Wait, wait. I distinctly remember you saying that was impossible all of two minutes ago.
Chiron:
And it is, were we to face all twelve together.
So, what should we do then?
Sieg:
...Use our Noble Phantasms to take them all out at once? No, that wouldn't work.
Achilles:
...Take them out one at a time?
Chiron:
Yes, now you're getting warmer. But it would be a waste of resources to focus on only one at a time.
Chiron:
That would be like swatting a fly with a sledgehammer.
Not to mention that the other eleven Servants are unlikely to simply wait patiently for their turn.
Fujimaru 1:
So...about three at a time?
Chiron:
Well done, [♂ Sir /♀ Lady] Fujimaru.
A gold star for you.
Chiron:
Achilles and I will team up to hold back nine of the Servants.
Achilles:
Bwa?
Chiron:
In the meantime, the two of you will defeat the remaining three. Simple, right?
Sieg:
Are you kidding? That's absurd.
Chiron:
I assure you, it is not absurd in the slightest.
Achilles:
Whoa, whoa, whoa!
Achilles:
Hold on a minute, Teacher.
Achilles:
Having these two take out three Servants at once is absurd enough, but how are the two of us going to hold back the other nine while they do!?
Achilles:
Did you forget they can use their Noble Phantasms now!?
Chiron:
Of course not. But based on what I saw last night, they are very obvious about when they are going to do so.
Chiron:
A Noble Phantasm is, after all,
a weakness as much as a trump card.
Chiron:
And right now, our enemies use them for no other reason than simply because they can.
Sieg:
So you're saying you want us to anticipate when they're about to use their Noble Phantasms and...just dodge?
Chiron:
Correct. You may be a little green now, Sir Custodi–Sir Sieg, but by nightfall, I will have trained you to see the signs of an imminent Noble Phantasm.
Sieg:
...I see.
By nightfall, you say? Then, that means...
Achilles:
(Oh great. Here comes the crash course...
I just know it.)
Chiron:
Achilles... Achilles... I'm told you wish to become a great hero, and that you want to do so as fast as you possibly can.
Chiron:
To be a hero, you will need good judgment and proper analytical faculties.
C：Eight-Year-Old Achilles:
Yes, Teacher!
Chiron:
I promise that once you complete these trials,
you will be a full-fledged hero.
C：Eight-Year-Old Achilles:
Yay! That's what I want!
Chiron:
Then for the next twenty-four hours,
from this moment onward...
Chiron:
...I want you to dodge every single one of my attacks.
C：Eight-Year-Old Achilles:
Bwa?
Achilles:
(Next thing I knew, Chiron was shooting hundreds of arrows at me in that narrow cave. I still remember what he said...)
Achilles:
(“Don't worry! Once you can alter the trajectories of ten out of every hundred arrows, you'll be dodging all of them in no time!”)
Achilles:
(“It should be well within your capabilities thanks to that superhuman speed of yours!”)
Achilles:
(“Besides, none of them have arrowheads, so they won't kill you. They will just sting quite a lot!”)
Achilles:
(“What's that? You would actually prefer a more slow and steady approach instead? Hmm... I see...”)
Achilles:
(“I think that would suit me better as well.
This is certainly not an ideal way to educate you.”)
Achilles:
(“However, since we have precious little time, we should spend it polishing this method to the fullest.”)
Achilles:
Hey, Custod–I mean, Sieg?
Sieg:
Hm?
Achilles:
Just...don't die, okay?
Sieg:
...Of course. I'll make sure I survive (both tonight and tomorrow night).
Achilles:
Right on!
Fujimaru 1:
I get the feeling you two aren't quite on the same page...
Chiron:
Until now, the reproductions have simply come back to life whenever they are defeated.
Chiron:
In a system like that,
there can be neither failure nor victory.
Chiron:
But now that the Greater Grail's Custodian, Sir Sieg, and [♂ Sir /♀ Lady] Fujimaru, the observer, are here...
Chiron:
...there is a very good chance that we can break this stalemate.
Chiron:
[♂ Sir /♀ Lady] Fujimaru, why don't you get some sleep? You will need to be well rested for tonight's battle.
Fujimaru 1:
Okay, will do.
Fujimaru 1:
I'm exhausted...
Fujimaru 2:
So...sleepy...
Narration:
...Again.
Narration:
...Again.
Narration:
...Again, again, again.
Narration:
Come, let us battle to the death.
Let us fight, and grow purer.
Narration:
Go forth and recreate that battle,
for it still has yet to be settled.
Narration:
Recreate, recreate, recreate...and then,
I will obtain what I seek.
Fujimaru 1:
Still afternoon, huh...
Fujimaru 2:
THAT was a weird dream...
Sieg:
(Huff, huff, huff...)
Chiron:
Oh, are you up already, Master?
We still have some time before the battle begins.
Chiron:
Hmm. You still have a ways to go, Sir Sieg,
but I suppose we can take a short break.
Sieg:
Thank...you...
Fujimaru 1:
Are you okay!?
Sieg:
More or less.
Sieg:
Chiron was kind enough to stop before he actually killed me.
Chiron:
In the meantime, Achilles and I will set about preparing our trap.
Fujimaru 1:
What trap?
Chiron:
A Bounded Field, to make it easier to separate our enemies.
Chiron:
Specifically, to cut off the nine Servants Achilles and I will be holding back from the three that you two will defeat.
Chiron:
...No doubt the enemy Casters will move to dispel the field, but I believe it will take them some time.
Sieg:
I'm fairly sure the Caster of Black, Avicebron,
is ill-equipped to deal with such things.
Fujimaru 1:
And Shakespeare's...well...
Chiron:
Indeed, I cannot imagine that either of them has the skills needed to disable a Bounded Field.
Chiron:
Very well then, we will return shortly.
Achilles, come and help me.
Achilles:
Nine Servants... If I handle Karna and Semiramis,
and ignore all the other attacks...
Chiron:
Achilles!
Achilles:
Gah!!!
Achilles:
What is it, Teacher?
I was just thinking about how I'm gonna fight them all!
Chiron:
I need your help to create the Bounded Field.
Achilles:
Huh? But I'm no good at that sort of thing.
Chiron:
I know.
That's why I'm asking you.
Achilles:
A-ANOTHER lesson? Now!?
Chiron:
But of course. Planning your strategy before a battle is one of the most important steps toward victory. As such, you will continue to do so while you help me prepare the Bounded Field spell.
Chiron:
We will be facing nine at once. A split-second decision will mean the difference between life and death.
Chiron:
Getting accustomed to thinking about several different things at once now will aid your decision-making capabilities later. It is a part of your training.
Achilles:
Okay, okay, I'll do it already!
Achilles:
I swear, I can't let my guard down for a moment around you...
Sieg:
...
...
Fujimaru 1:
What's up?
Sieg:
Oh, it's nothing. I was just thinking how well that teacher and student complement one another.
Sieg:
...Chiron was the Archer of Black,
and Achilles the Rider of Red.
Sieg:
They were, in fact, enemies during the Great Holy Grail War.
Sieg:
As I recall, Achilles was born to a god... As such, he isn't easy to harm without possessing Divinity as well.
Sieg:
And the only Servant on the Black side who did...was Chiron.
Sieg:
Of course, Chiron isn't one to pull his punches,
even when facing one of his former pupils.
Sieg:
I wasn't able to see it for myself,
but I'm told theirs was an incredibly fearsome battle.
Fujimaru 1:
You really know your stuff.
Sieg:
Well, I did survive the Great Holy Grail War myself, though not because I was particularly strong.
Sieg:
...I wasn't even a Master.
I just... How do I put this...
Sieg:
I suppose I was very lucky.
Sieg:
I wasn't very skilled, nor did I have the sort of charisma needed to command a Servant.
Fujimaru 1:
Could you tell me more about what happened?
Sieg:
...Yes, I suppose I should.
Sieg:
I don't think it will be especially useful, but now that I've summoned you here, the least I can do is answer your questions.
Sieg:
I am an artificially created life-form called a homunculus.
Sieg:
Huh? You thought homunculi were enemies that looked like snowmen?
Sieg:
...I'm afraid I don't know anything about that. I can only assume those homunculi were made some other way.
Sieg:
They do say that we–well, the Yggdmillennia production process was the work of a distinguished family of alchemists.
Sieg:
As for me, an Yggdmillennia mage created me so that I could provide magical energy.
Sieg:
...It takes a vast amount of magical energy to keep a Servant materialized, to say nothing of using their Noble Phantasm.
Sieg:
So there were a lot of other homunculi besides me who were all here at this fortress to provide the Servants with magical energy.
Sieg:
Over half of them ended up wrung completely dry of magical energy and died...but I ran away.
Sieg:
...All because I didn't want to die.
Fujimaru 1:
...You say that like it's a bad thing.
Sieg:
Ah...
Sieg:
I guess...I would be lying if I said I didn't feel guilty.
Sieg:
Both about abandoning everyone so I could survive...and that I am still alive now...
Fujimaru 2:
Do you regret that?
Sieg:
...That's a difficult question,
but...I don't think so.
Sieg:
This Greater Grail is precious. Every Servant who fought in the war risked their lives for it.
Sieg:
I can't let it fall into the wrong hands.
Chiron:
...Tonight's Great Holy Grail War is about to begin.
Are you ready, Achilles?
Achilles:
Hell yeah I am!
Chiron:
We will hold off nine of the hostile Servants,
and you will defeat three of them.
Chiron:
Sir Sieg, [♂ Sir /♀ Lady] Fujimaru, are you ready?
Sieg:
I am.
Fujimaru 1:
All set!
Chiron:
Good.
I wish you luck.
Achilles:
Don't worry. You can always shout for help if things go sideways!
Achilles:
But hey, I'm sure things'll work out somehow!
Chiron:
All right...let's go!
Chiron:
...Screen spell, Asteri Amina.
Chiron:
Good, they've been separated.
Now it's time to lure them out.
Chiron:
We shall do our utmost to ensure that [♂ Sir /♀ Lady] Fujimaru and Sir Sieg are able to defeat their targets without drawing attention to themselves.
Chiron:
And of course, do take care not to destroy the wall.
Achilles:
Man, that's a lotta stuff to keep track of. This is already tough, and you're not exactly making it easier!
Chiron:
Hahaha, don't worry. I have less practical experience in battle than you do.
Chiron:
If anything, I will be counting on YOU to show ME the ropes.
Sieg:
Okay, I see three of them.
Sieg:
The Caster of Red, the Caster of Black,
and the Assassin of Black, huh?
Sieg:
They are not quite as strong as many of the others, but they are still quite formidable.
Sieg:
...Make sure to watch out for the Assassin,
Jack the Ripper, in particular.
Fujimaru 1:
Yeah, I, uh...I know.
Sieg:
Good.
...Let's go, Master!
Section 3: Are You Our Mommy?
Sieg:
How do you like that!?
Fujimaru 1:
...It's morning!
Chiron:
Sir Sieg! [♂ Sir /♀ Lady] Fujimaru!
Achilles:
Hey, you're alive!
Looks like you even kicked some ass!
Chiron:
The other nine have fallen back as well.
Chiron:
While we still don't know what the next night will bring...for now, let us rejoice in our victory.
Sieg:
You said it!
Thank you, everyone.
Sieg:
I only hope something changes for the better before tonight...
Achilles:
Ah, don't worry. It'll all work out.
That's what my gut says, and it hasn't failed me yet.
Sieg:
...I hope you're right...
Achilles:
Man, Sieg, you're a bit of a downer, aren't you?
Why all the pessimism?
Sieg:
I can't help but be anxious. Not with the Greater Grail's fate resting on my shoulders.
Achilles:
What's the big deal?
It's yours to do with as you want, right?
Achilles:
If worse comes to worst,
couldn't you just smash it and call it a day?
Sieg:
No, I couldn't.
That...that's the one thing I can't do.
Chiron:
Hmm.
Chiron:
There must be something driving the Servant copies,
though I'm afraid I don't know what it may be...
Chiron:
At any rate, why don't we take the rest of today off?
Chiron:
...After we prepare another screen spell,
just in case they'll fall for the same trick.
Achilles:
...You mean I have to do all that AGAIN!?
Chiron:
Sir Sieg, would you be so kind as to accompany
[♂ Sir /♀ Lady] Fujimaru back to the fortress?
Sieg:
Of course.
Shall we, Fujimaru?
Sieg:
...Now that I think about it, it seems rude to call you by your name. How should I address you?
Fujimaru 1:
You can call me whatever you want, really.
Sieg:
I see...
Then I'll try to think of something that suits me.
Sieg:
I'm going to check up on my real body.
Go ahead and get some rest.
Sieg:
I don't think you'll have to worry about getting hungry while you're here...
Sieg:
...but if you feel like eating something, I'd be happy to bring you some food from the communal kitchen.
Fujimaru 1:
I'm fine, thank you.
Sieg:
I see.
Then please get some rest.
Sieg:
Sweet dreams.
...That does have a nice ring to it.
Fujimaru 2:
You know, I think I would like to grab a bite.
Sieg:
Understood.
I'll bring it to you while you sleep.
Fujimaru 1:
So sleepy again...
Narration:
Mo...mmy...
Mommy. Mommy...!
Narration:
...Captured.
Narration:
Murderer on a misty night, serial killer of women, young girl, gestalt evil spirit, Assassin-class, high-rank Presence Concealment, expert torturer.
Narration:
Jack the Ripper.
Narration:
It's all up to you now, Keter Malkuth!
Narration:
I believe you can create Eden in this land...!
Now go! Save the world! Go and save our people!
Narration:
...Captured.
Narration:
Kabbalist, golem master, foundation creator, philosopher and poet, Caster-class, ruler of stone giants.
Narration:
Avicebron.
Narration:
Indeed, as it turns out, I am quite pathetic when it comes to combat magecraft.
Narration:
But you, gods, will give us some faults to make us men.
Narration:
...Captured.
Narration:
The greatest writer in the world, artist, stage actor, sovereign of stories, Caster-class, incomparable playwright.
Narration:
William Shakespeare.
Narration:
Establishing all three Servants' Spirit Origins.
Adding to ■■■.
???:
...y.
...my.
Fujimaru 1:
That was a weird dream...
Fujimaru 2:
Err... Is someone speaking to me...?
???:
Helloooooo! Are you awaaake!?
Fujimaru 1:
Sieg? Is that you?
???:
Nooo!
I'm not Sieg. Come on, Mommy!
???:
Ah, you're awake!
???:
Good morning. Are you our mommy?
???:
It's okay if you're not!
You still seem like it!
Fujimaru 1:
What the...!?
???:
We're the Assassin of Black, Jack the Ripper.
Jack:
Is something wrong? Why are you so surprised?
You are the one who summoned us, right, Mommy?
Sieg:
Fujimaru, we've got trouble!
Jack:
?
Sieg:
!
Sieg:
You're...
Fujimaru 1:
I don't even know what's going on anymore...
Sieg:
...M-me neither.
Jack:
Who're you? Are you a Servant?
A friend? A foe? Which ooone?
Jack:
What do you want me to do with him, Mommy?
Fujimaru 1:
Just calm down, okay?
Sieg:
...I'm a friend.
Sieg:
I'm...your friend.
Jack:
...Oh really? We don't really get it,
but we're not gonna fight, huh?
Sieg:
Fujimaru.
Sieg:
Come with me. It's not just her. The other two Servants we fought last night have shown up as well.
Shakespeare:
I see, I see!
So that's what's going on here!
Shakespeare:
Well, now that I know what is happening,
permit me to introduce myself!
Shakespeare:
My name is William Shakespeare. Though perhaps Caster of Red would better suit me here?
Shakespeare:
Oh, hello there!
I see, so you're the Greater Grail's Custodian.
Shakespeare:
And you must be the Master of Chaldea he summoned!
Shakespeare:
...I see, I see. So you have come to save the Custodian's bacon, as it were.
Shakespeare:
Hahahaha, how wonderful, how fantastic!
What an extraordinary life you must lead!
Shakespeare:
Please allow me to mark this occasion by quoting a line from one of my many famou–
Fujimaru 1:
Do you ever shut up?
Avicebron:
So the only ones who came back to life were those of us you two fought last night?
Sieg:
Exactly.
Sieg:
Now, I have a question for all of you:
Do you recall why you were summoned here?
Shakespeare:
Not at all, no.
Avicebron:
Likewise.
Jack:
No idea. A Holy Grail War?
...No, that's not it.
Jack:
We don't sense any bloodlust or animosity,
even though you're Servants.
Chiron:
This is quite a surprise...
Chiron:
I did consider this possibility, but I never thought we would be joined by three more Servants all at once.
Chiron:
This is certainly a welcome change in our situation.
Achilles:
Hell yeah! Now this is more like it!
Chiron:
Sir Shakespeare.
Sir Avicebron.
Chiron:
And...um...
Jack:
Us? We're Jack the Ripper.
Shakespeare:
You're whom!?
Achilles:
The hell!?
Chiron:
Well now, it seems this is a day of surprises.
Sieg:
...That's true. When you think about it,
this really IS surprising.
Jack:
...
...
Jack:
Mommyyy, everyone's looking at us funny...
Fujimaru 1:
Okay guys, no more staring.
Fujimaru 2:
It's okay, Jack. Come here.
Jack:
'kaaay.
Sieg:
I didn't know she was so attached...
Avicebron:
Chiron, perhaps you can explain what's going on here in a way that all of us can understand?
Chiron:
Very well then, I shall do my best to be concise.
Avicebron:
Now...
Shakespeare:
...I...
Jack:
...see.
Chiron:
Sir Sieg. [♂ Sir /♀ Lady] Fujimaru.
Chiron:
It seems that the other Servants will return to our side once you have defeated them.
Chiron:
This should give us more than even odds against the remaining nine Servants.
Achilles:
Yeah, I'd say things are looking up now.
Shakespeare:
Teacher? May I say something?
Shakespeare:
The difficulty here is that I am afraid Avicebron and I are simply not at all suited for combat.
Chiron:
No need to worry about that, Sir Shakespeare.
Chiron:
Master Fujimaru and Sir Sieg know very well what you can and cannot do, and are sure to provide expert guidance.
Sieg:
Th-that's a pretty tall order...
But I'll do what I can.
Sieg:
Are you up for this, Fujimaru?
Fujimaru 1:
We'll figure something out...I think.
Shakespeare:
I see, I see. In that case, dear patrons, we gladly offer our services for you to employ as you see fit!
Avicebron:
Thank you for having us.
Jack:
What should we do, Mommy and Mr. Custodian?
Sieg:
Okay, well first let's figure out how we can best incorporate them into our plan for tonight.
Fujimaru 1:
I'll start by keeping an eye on Shakespeare.
Fujimaru 2:
Can't have a certain genius writer slacking off.
Sieg:
Good point.
Sieg:
Speaking for myself, though, I just want to make sure you don't do anything that would complicate the situation further.
Shakespeare:
I'm glad to know you two trust me so implicitly!
Avicebron:
What in the world did you do?
Sieg:
...
...
Jack:
Hey! Mr. Custodian!
Sieg:
Y-yes?
Jack:
Are you avoiding us?
Sieg:
No, of course I'm–
Sieg:
No, I guess I am, aren't I?
I'm sorry if I hurt your feelings.
Jack:
Did we try to kill each other or something?
Sieg:
Yes. I...I'm afraid I saw what happened in your past.
Jack:
Hmm. Now we understand.
What did you think about it?
Sieg:
I thought...it was horrible.
Jack:
Yes, we guess it was.
But why does it bother you, Mr. Custodian?
Jack:
Why would other people's pasts or memories matter to you?
Sieg:
Well, I care...
Sieg:
I wanted to save all of you.
Jack:
Even though we're here now because you couldn't save us?
Sieg:
...That's true. You're right about that.
Sieg:
Hmm, what's the expression for this again?
I think it's...
Jack:
Feeling down?
Sieg:
Not exactly, but it's close...
Jack:
At a loss for words?
Sieg:
That's it.
Jack:
We see. So we lost.
Sieg:
Well, technically speaking,
I wasn't the one who beat you...
Sieg:
...but I WAS there when you fell.
Jack:
That's okay. We were fighting a Holy Grail–a Great Holy Grail War, right?
Jack:
Everybody tries to kill everybody else in those.
Jack:
But, we were on the Black team, right?
So why were we fighting you?
Jack:
Didn't Mr. Chiron say you were on the Black team too?
Sieg:
...It's kind of a long story.
Do you still want to hear it?
Jack:
Nuh-uh!
Sieg:
Got it.
Sieg:
Why don't we talk about something else, then?
How does that sound?
Jack:
Sure!
As long as it's not about doctors or London!
Sieg:
All right then, let's see...
I know, what about food?
Sieg:
...I didn't realize we'd been talking for so long.
Jack:
Oh, it's Mommy! Hi, Mommy!
Fujimaru 1:
We'd better get going.
Jack:
It's gonna be night soon?
Okay, let's go!
Fujimaru 2:
It's almost time for the next battle.
Sieg:
Right.
Let's give it our all!
Jack:
Yeah!
Chiron:
All right, our plan for tonight is essentially the same as yesterday. We will lure three enemy Servants out and distract the others so they don't interfere.
Chiron:
But tonight, I won't ask Sir Sieg and Master Fujimaru to handle the three Servants all on their own.
Chiron:
Achilles, I want you to go with them while I handle the diversion.
Achilles:
Really? You sure?
Chiron:
Avicebron, I want you to summon as many golems as you can and have them follow my lead.
Chiron:
As for Shakespeare... Why don't you cast Enchant on whichever side you think would provide the most entertainment?
Fujimaru 1:
That's your plan for him!?
Shakespeare:
Most happily! In that case,
I shall go with Fujimaru, naturally!
Shakespeare:
For [♂ his /♀ her] side looks to be entertaining indeed!
Chiron:
You see? It worked out nicely.
Sieg:
...Chiron's actually quite cunning...
Shakespeare:
Of course, do be aware that I absolutely will not be taking part in the fighting myself!
Jack:
Teacher! Teacher!
We wanna fight with Mommy too!
Chiron:
I'm sorry, Jack, but I'm afraid that would leave a hole in our defenses.
Chiron:
And that would only make trouble for your mother.
Jack:
Aww...
Fujimaru 1:
Please, Jack?
Jack:
Oh, all right, Mommy!
We'll go do our best to dismember them all!
Sieg:
I'm surprised she's so obedient...
Achilles:
All right then, Sieg and Master,
let's get this party started!
Achilles:
Hm? Ah, it's no big deal. I can tell you're a good Master from the way you fought last night.
Achilles:
So, y'know, it just makes sense for me to take my orders from you!
Achilles:
But hey, don't worry about me.
You don't need to change anything you're doing.
Achilles:
Just keep following your own path,
and I'll clear the way for you.
Fujimaru 1:
Thank you.
Achilles:
No problem!
Trust me, I got it covered!
Fujimaru 2:
Would you happen to know the Queen of the Amazons?
Achilles:
...
...
Achilles:
Y-yes, I do.
Achilles:
Wait. Don't tell me she's on the enemy side? She's not, right? Huh? She could be summoned to Chaldea at some point?
Achilles:
N-no. That's fine. I'm fine. This is fine...
Everything...everything is fine. Yes.
Sieg:
...This feels so strange.
Sieg:
Hm? What do I mean? Well, during the Great Holy Grail War, I never directly interacted with Achilles.
Sieg:
I never thought I'd end up fighting alongside him.
This should make for some good memories.
Fujimaru 1:
Memories?
Sieg:
Well, yeah. It's nice having memories like this, isn't it? Far as I'm concerned, you can never have too many.
Sieg:
Especially in my case,
since I don't have all that many to begin with.
Sieg:
All right, let's get to fighting. There's no way we can lose with this team, no matter who we're up against.
Sieg:
...At least, I hope so.
Achilles:
Well that doesn't sound good.
What's up? You worried about something?
Sieg:
Honestly, I've got a bad feeling about this.
Sieg:
It's great that all three Servants we defeated came over to our side. That's certainly the best outcome we could've wished for.
Sieg:
But...that's also why I'm worried.
Sieg:
I can't see us having that kind of luck twice.
Achilles:
...Yeah, I guess you've got a point there.
In fact, I've been feeling the same thing.
Achilles:
And I'm sure that means we're going to be facing some tough opponents! We're counting on you, Master!
Fujimaru 1:
I-I'll do my best!
Chiron:
All right, tonight's Great Holy Grail War is about to begin. Good luck to you all!
Shakespeare:
Very well then, my boon companions! Cry havoc and let slip the dogs of war! Keep my glorious words close to your heart, and may fortune smile upon you!
Sieg:
Is that really going to help us...?
Sieg:
Oh well, I guess we don't need it anyway.
Let's go, Fujimaru!
Section 4: Confrontation: Dual Swords and Cavalry
Achilles:
Got 'em!
Achilles:
...Man. I can't say exactly what it is,
but something about this really bothers me.
Sieg:
Agreed. But at least while we were fighting them,
it was clear they were enemies.
Sieg:
And since it wasn't possible to talk with them,
fighting was the only choice we had.
Achilles:
Still...don't you think it's strange?
Achilles:
Normally, no one can so much as scratch me unless they've got divine blood...
Achilles:
...but those guys practically beat me black and blue back there.
Sieg:
Yes, I see what you mean.
Sieg:
It's possible there's more to Atalante and Spartacus's legends than we know...
Sieg:
...but there's absolutely no way Frankenstein could secretly have divine blood.
Sieg:
Her origin is too modern, and the circumstances of her creation rule it out entirely.
Achilles:
Maybe so, but I can still feel the spikes from that mace of hers when she smacked me with the thing!
Achilles:
That would've caved in anyone else's rib cage.
Chiron:
Are you still alive, Achilles?
Achilles:
Last I checked.
How 'bout you, Teacher?
Chiron:
I am, yes, as you see.
Though I am considerably worse for wear.
Avicebron:
I'm afraid it was all my golems could do just to hold back one of the enemy Servants.
Jack:
Are you okay, Mommy?
Fujimaru 1:
What about you, Jack? Are you hurt?
Jack:
Hmm. We think we're hurt a lot...
Yeah, we're really hurt a lot...
Jack:
But we're okay!
We made fog and used it to get away!
Sieg:
I'm glad to see you're all alive.
Jack:
We don't think we are all alive, Mr. Custodian.
Sieg:
...!
Fujimaru 1:
What do you mean...!?
Chiron:
Yes, that's right.
We need to hurry back to the fortress!
Chiron:
You see, we actually faced eight Servants.
Chiron:
And somehow those Servants included both Jack and Avicebron.
Chiron:
That was certainly a surprise.
Avicebron:
It was odd, I must admit,
to be fighting a stronger version of myself.
Chiron:
Curiously, Shakespeare was nowhere to be seen.
Sieg:
Oh no. You don't mean...
Chiron:
I'm afraid I do.
Chiron:
They may have decided to divide and conquer,
just like we have...!
Sieg:
Then, the Caster of Red may have gone to fight Shakespeare...!?
Shakespeare:
I thought I was a goner!
Fujimaru 1:
You're still alive!?
Shakespeare:
Hahaha, welcome back! I'm thrilled to see you're all safe! Though not as much as I am to BE safe!
Shakespeare:
I say, is something wrong?
Shakespeare:
You all seem quite disappointed.
Don't tell me you were hoping I was dead!?
Fujimaru 1:
No, no, nothing like that.
Chiron:
Hahaha, be at ease, Shakespeare.
We are, of course, all relieved to see you are safe.
Jack:
But, Mr. Chiron, didn't you say we would have to redo all the fortress's defenses if he died?
Avicebron:
I also recall you saying you would need to keep Master safe, now that the enemy has taken us by surprise.
Chiron:
Hahahaha, only in the hypothetical sense, I assure you.
Shakespeare:
Well, if the truth must out–and we all know it must–I was quite sure I had breathed my last when I came under attack!
Shakespeare:
Thank goodness I'm so weak!
Fujimaru 1:
How do we know you're the real Shakespeare?
Shakespeare:
Oh dear, not this trope! You don't really think I've been switched out for my evil doppelgänger, do you!?
Shakespeare:
Hmm, then again, he was me in every sense, a perfect facsimile, so I may not be altogether credible here...
Shakespeare:
That is, aside from the fact that he never said a word, and was shrouded in a most ominous aura...
Shakespeare:
Still, were one to suggest I might become a more complete version of myself by defeating...myself, I could hardly gainsay them.
Shakespeare:
Uh-oh. I seem to have talked myself into a corner!
Shakespeare:
O world, thy slippery turns, indeed!
Jack:
Dismember, dismember♪
Shakespeare:
(Gulp) The child fairly radiates excitement...
Avicebron:
Well, even if that does turn out to be the case,
I see no great cause for concern.
Avicebron:
After all, if our assumptions are correct, the Servants we defeated last night should soon come to our side.
Chiron:
Yes, that's true. Very well then, Shakespeare, please remain close to me until the new Servants arrive.
Shakespeare:
One question, Professor:
What fate might I meet should I decline to do so?
Chiron:
I hope it does not come to that.
Chiron:
Transient version of him though you may be, it would still pain me to fill the world's greatest writer with arrows...
Shakespeare:
Heavens, you're quite serious, aren't you?
Understood!
Chiron:
All right, now we just have to wait for the resummoning.
Sieg:
Does this mean...things are going well?
Chiron:
I'm not so sure.
Chiron:
I have the sense that matters are progressing according to the enemy's plan.
Chiron:
What about you, Sir Sieg?
Sieg:
...Yes, I agree.
Sieg:
I feel like our enemy is going to come at us even harder, enough to negate our newfound advantage.
Achilles:
Not to mention that it seems all their Servants have gained Divinity somehow...
Jack:
Those other versions of us were really tough. If they're even stronger next time...we might not be able to beat them.
Fujimaru 1:
Even so, our job hasn't changed.
Chiron:
[♂ Sir /♀ Lady] Fujimaru is right.
Chiron:
No matter what they may come at us with,
this is the only viable strategy we have.
Chiron:
We will just have to have faith that our opponent's strength is not without limit.
Chiron:
Very well then, [♂ Sir /♀ Lady] Fujimaru–No,
on second thought, perhaps I should address you as...
Chiron:
...our Master.
Chiron:
We will be counting on you once again in the next battle as well.
Narration:
Rider, it was fine with me. Once I had fallen, I wouldn't have needed to spread my wings and fly any longer...
Narration:
...Captured.
Narration:
Hero of Greek mythology, provider of wind, retainer to Artemis, hero of the Argonauts, hunter of the Calydonian Boar, noble beast.
Narration:
Atalante.
Narration:
It'll take more than cutting off my legs to stop me.
Narration:
...Captured.
Narration:
Giant of a man who shattered the shackles of oppression, smiling rebel who lay waste to all around him, indomitable monster of the coliseum.
Narration:
Spartacus.
Narration:
Come...with...me.
Narration:
...Captured.
Narration:
Dr. Frankenstein's greatest legacy, girl revived with lightning, patchwork body, doll with a heart of fury.
Narration:
Frankenstein.
Narration:
Establishing all three Servants' Spirit Origins.
Narration:
This is not the end. I won't let it end.
I'll never let it end.
Sieg:
I brought you something to eat.
Fujimaru 1:
It seems like there's more food now than last time?
Sieg:
Oh, yes, I thought we might eat together.
Assuming you don't mind, of course.
Fujimaru 2:
Is this for two people?
Sieg:
Yes, if it's not too much trouble...
Sieg:
Good. ...I'm glad.
All right, shall we?
Sieg:
I hope it tastes okay?
I can't tell myself.
Fujimaru 1:
It's delicious.
Sieg:
I'm glad to hear that.
Sieg:
When the Greater Grail first came into my possession, I never thought I'd one day use my power as its Custodian for something as simple as cooking.
Sieg:
...I've never actually cooked before, you see.
Sieg:
Chiron looks like he knows his way around a kitchen,
but he's got plenty of other things to worry about.
Fujimaru 2:
You mean you can't taste anything?
Sieg:
Not very well, no.
Not unless it's really sweet...and even then, just barely.
Sieg:
So the only way I can cook is to use my power as the Greater Grail's Custodian to grant a wish.
Sieg:
...But I figured a little wish-granting would be okay, especially if it was done to help you.
Sieg:
I see, I see.
Sieg:
Chaldea... The Incineration of Humanity...
Seven Singularities... Rayshifting...
Sieg:
Shadow Border... A world of white nothingness,
as far as the eye can see...
Sieg:
Chaldea... The Incineration of Humanity...
Seven Singularities... Rayshifting...
Sieg:
Chaldea... The Incineration of Humanity...
Seven Singularities... Rayshifting...
Sieg:
...It sounds like you have more than your share of troubles in your world, too.
Sieg:
Don't worry, though.
I promise you'll be fine.
Sieg:
Whatever happens here, I will use my power as the Greater Grail's Custodian to send you home. You have my word on that.
Sieg:
So please, just think of this as an unusually long dream.
Sieg:
If things take a turn for the worse,
all you have to do is wake up.
Fujimaru 1:
Thank you.
Sieg:
Don't thank me. I'm the one who dragged you into all this, after all.
Sieg:
But never mind that. I'd love to hear more about your world. I'm especially interested in what you were like before you became a Master.
Fujimaru 1:
You know, come to think of it...
Sieg:
Hm?
Fujimaru 1:
You don't talk like you do when you're a dragon.
Sieg:
Oh, that? Well...
Sieg:
Nobody in my world had ever summoned a Master before, so...
Sieg:
...I gave it some thought and figured I should try to act...appropriate for that form, I suppose?
Sieg:
In hindsight, I guess I might've sounded kind of silly, though...
Sieg:
I mean, all that faux Old English and such...what was I thinking? It's embarrassing!
Sieg:
Please...just do me a favor and forget all that?
Sieg:
Ah!
Sieg:
Somebody's attacking me in the courtyard!
Fujimaru 1:
Let's go!
Fran:
Ughhh... Ughhh!!!
Evil Dragon:
...
...
Fran:
Uuugh!
Sieg:
...
...
Fujimaru 1:
Looks like she's trying to tell you those are her flowers...
Fujimaru 2:
I think...she wants you to get off the flowers...?
Sieg:
I, uh, I see.
I'm impressed you understood her.
Sieg:
Nonetheless, that dragon is my real body,
and I'm afraid I can't move it right now.
Sieg:
You can, um, just shove it into a corner if you want?
I'm afraid that's the best I can offer. Sorry...
Fran:
Ugh...
Uhh...
Spartacus:
Hmm. So that means...
Yes, it would seem this dragon is an oppress–
Fujimaru 1:
No! No oppressors here!
Spartacus:
Oppressor... Not an oppressor...
Hmm, that's a difficult question.
Spartacus:
After all, I came to this land to fight,
to overthrow my enemies.
Spartacus:
So would it not follow that the dragon IS a symbol of the oppressors here?
Fran:
Uhh...
Spartacus:
...He's not an oppressor?
Very well, then I shall wait.
Spartacus:
The oppressors are sure to come. When they do, that is when I shall act, and my songs of triumph ring forth.
Spartacus:
In the meantime...I will wait here,
in this flower garden.
Spartacus:
Good night, sweet rebellion.
Fran:
Ugh!?
Fujimaru 1:
There, there.
Fujimaru 2:
Easy now.
Spartacus:
Zzz...
Fran:
Ugh... Uhh...
Sieg:
So they've both fallen asleep, huh...
Oh well, they should wake up once night falls.
Sieg:
Anyway, if they've both been summoned,
then she must have been as well...
Achilles:
...
...
Atalante:
Achilles, was it?
Do I have something on my face?
Achilles:
Are you the same Atalante my old man told me about?
Atalante:
...Ah, I see. So you're Peleus's son.
Atalante:
I remember beating him in a wrestling match once.
Atalante:
That was a good match.
Chiron:
Atalante, I'm sorry to impose,
but would you help me build the trap for tonight?
Chiron:
Your skills as a huntress likely make you far better at placing a trap in a forest than I.
Atalante:
Very well.
Atalante:
...I must ask, though:
Why was I resummoned?
Atalante:
Actually, was I even properly summoned to begin with?
Atalante:
If we are inside the Greater Grail now,
then what am I supposed to do?
Chiron:
I believe we are meant to fight in order to keep the Greater Grail safe. Even if we were indeed enemies in the original war.
Atalante:
...Well, that is no matter. I have had plenty of other former enemies become allies before.
Achilles:
You and I were both Red,
so I guess we were always allies.
Atalante:
So, the immortal Achilles is my ally now, huh?
Usually I would find that encouraging...
Atalante:
...but if all our opponents have Divinity,
that does not offer much of an advantage.
Chiron:
Perhaps, but even without his invincibility,
he is far more powerful than any of them.
Chiron:
...Indeed, it is quite fortunate that Achilles is not on their side.
Chiron:
Especially since we are the only ones on our side with divine blood at the moment.
Atalante:
I must say, it is an odd feeling to know that a copy of myself fights for our enemy...
Atalante:
Achilles, be sure you do not drag my corpse around the fortress.
Achilles:
I'm not gonna do that!
Achilles:
If I was ever going to do something like that,
it'd be as a Berserker!
Atalante:
Haha, I was just kidding.
Atalante:
...Since I am based on the data from before the Great Holy Grail War began, my Spirit Origin has no recollection of this...
Atalante:
...but I imagine we must have exchanged similar quips before, given that we were both part of the Red camp.
Achilles:
Yeah, we probably did.
Achilles:
You know, I was hoping I'd get to meet you someday.
My old man used to talk about you all the time.
Atalante:
...Stop that. It is embarrassing.
Chiron:
Ah, youth is such a splendid thing...
Avicebron:
I do not believe Servants are either truly old or young. ...Hmm.
Chiron:
Is something wrong?
Avicebron:
No, there's just something nagging me about Shakespeare.
Chiron:
Did you find some evidence that he is an imposter?
Avicebron:
No, nothing like that.
Avicebron:
What troubles me is that the enemy version of him decided to come to the fortress.
Avicebron:
If it had been any other Servant...
Avicebron:
...we might have faced eradication.
Chiron:
Hmm. I see.
Chiron:
...In that case, I'll speak to Master,
and see if we can't stay one step ahead.
Sieg:
All right.
...Let's go!
Shakespeare:
Good luck! May fortune smile on you all!
Avicebron:
I doubt you'll need us on the front lines anymore,
so I'll stay here and await your return.
Avicebron:
Along with my golems, of course.
Jack:
Okay Mommy, let's gooo!
Chiron:
Atalante.
Fujimaru 1:
We're counting on you!
Atalante:
Right.
To the twin gods I offer this...
Atalante:
Phoebus Catastrophe!
Atalante:
...Tch, a Noble Phantasm!
Sieg:
That must be Rider...Astolfo's Noble Phantasm.
Sieg:
His hippogriff can pass through any kind of attack.
Atalante:
In that case, we just continue to attack until it rematerializes. Come, Chiron!
Chiron:
Right there with you!
Spartacus:
There you are, oppressors! So you've decided to take cover in the night and strike at us from the shadows, have you!?
Spartacus:
That will not protect you from the destruction of my love!
Spartacus:
Good mooorniiing, rebellion!
Fujimaru 1:
Well, you've certainly got greetings covered...
Achilles:
...All right, let's split 'em up like we always–Huh!?
Chiron:
This...this is my Bounded Field!
So they DID learn how to separate us!
Chiron:
Sir Sieg! Master!
Sieg:
...It seems Chiron was right about the enemy appearing within the fortress.
Sieg:
Assassin...I mean, Jack the Ripper.
Jack:
Yes, yes! We're here, Mr. Custodian.
What is it?
Sieg:
Can you tell me what the enemies you saw looked like?
Jack:
Okay. Let's see...
Jack:
There were two Sabers with heavy armor,
and a Lancer who seemed kind of girly...
Jack:
Hmm. Maybe he was actually a Rider?
Sieg:
If he was short, then he couldn't have been either of the two Lancers.
Jack:
Then he must've been the Rider of Black.
Sieg:
...I see.
Jack:
Oh, we also saw a few things that looked like Shadow Servants.
Jack:
We were there too, so we think...they're probably leftovers from last time or something?
Fujimaru 1:
How strong were they?
Jack:
Not strong at all! They were easy!
Jack:
We can dismember all of them for you in no time!
Sieg:
All right, then we take out any enemies that make their way here, and continue to protect the Casters.
Sieg:
Since we expected something like this might happen,
we shouldn't have anything to worry about.
Sieg:
Fujimaru, go ahead and tell us what to do!
Fran:
Ugggh!
Jack:
We're counting on you, Mommy!
Okay, time to go ripping!
Section 5: Chiron the Sage's Combat Exercise
Jack:
Dismembeeer!!! Wheee!!!
Jack:
We won!
Fran:
Ugh!
Jack:
Hooray!
Sieg:
The Rider of Black, Astolfo.
The Saber of Black, Siegfried.
The Saber of Red, Mordred.
Sieg:
I can confirm that they've all disappeared.
Sieg:
Truth be told, I have mixed feelings about this...
But at least we were able to outwit them and win.
Sieg:
I hate to think of what might have happened if Avicebron hadn't realized what they were up to...
Sieg:
...
Fran:
Uh!?
Sieg:
...I'm all right. I think my control over the Greater Grail just wavered a little bit.
Sieg:
It's odd, though, considering how many Servants we've defeated... Does this mean my ownership of the Grail wavering has nothing to do with this war?
Jack:
What happens when it wavers?
Sieg:
It means someone other than me will take possession of the Greater Grail.
Jack:
Hmm.
Jack:
If they want it that badly,
why don't you just let them have it?
Jack:
You're not even a Servant, right?
Why kill yourself over this?
Sieg:
A Servant once tried to use this Greater Grail to make a wish come true.
Sieg:
And I'm the one who stopped that from happening.
Sieg:
So, I guess...I kind of have a responsibility to make sure the Greater Grail is never misused.
Jack:
...We don't really understand, but okay.
It sounds like you had a hard life.
Sieg:
...I wouldn't say that. It may not have lasted long, but I enjoyed it.
Sieg:
Anyway, the battle is now over.
Sieg:
Fujimaru, do you know the Rider of Black...er, Astolfo?
Fujimaru 1:
Yup.
Sieg:
I see. Then you also know how...difficult he can be at times.
Sieg:
He's a lot of fun, too, though...
Fujimaru 2:
Nope.
Sieg:
I see... Well, try not to be too shocked by how he behaves.
Sieg:
He's easily the most unhinged out of all fourteen Servants.
Sieg:
Anyway, it's encouraging to know that both the Black and Red Sabers will soon be joining us.
Sieg:
Though I have to say, our “family”
is growing rather large...
Fujimaru 1:
I don't know if we can keep them all in line anymore.
Sieg:
I've been thinking the same thing.
Still, we'll just have to do our best.
Narration:
There can be no atonement for this sin.
I may be dooming him to a life of violence.
Narration:
But even so...I choose to offer up my life to him.
Narration:
...Captured.
Narration:
Immortal body, sword-wielding fortress, Dragon-Slayer,
the hero who bears a thousand hopes upon his back.
Narration:
Siegfried.
Narration:
Don't worry about me. I don't care if I'm mistaken.
I don't care if I'm deluded. I'm fine with this.
Narration:
So don't worry about me.
Narration:
...Captured.
Narration:
Knight of the Round Table, traitor, the one who ended the reign of King Arthur, hero of red lightning, usurper of the throne, curse of the King of Knights.
Narration:
Mordred.
Narration:
Yeah! Good luck to you too!
Narration:
...Captured.
Narration:
The legend of Charlemagne, troublemaker, absent of reason, devoted Samaritan, knight of miracles.
Narration:
Astolfo.
Narration:
Only three Servants left.
It won't be much longer now.
Narration:
...It will be a bit of a wait, though.
Narration:
I believe humans will make it here eventually, so I'm willing to wait until they do. Even if it takes a hundred, a thousand, or ten thousand years.
Narration:
Still, if I have any regrets...
Well, it would be nice to talk to someone.
Narration:
Homunculus, human, Servant...
Narration:
As long as we could just talk about anything,
really, I wouldn't care who it was with.
Narration:
...That wish already came true with astonishing ease.
I know so many things.
Narration:
I know their memories from the Great Holy Grail War.
I know all their data. I even know how each of them met their ends.
Narration:
Of course, there's no need to say any of that,
and I don't plan on doing so.
Narration:
It's just...none of the Servants who gathered here knew about the Great Holy Grail War.
Narration:
I'm guessing they don't have the data from it. They're the same as they were on the first day of the war.
Astolfo:
Hiya, people I've never met!
Narration:
...That explains why he reacted that way.
It's still kind of sad, though.
Sieg:
Nice to meet you.
You must be Astolfo.
Sieg:
And you two must be...
Siegfried:
...
...
Mordred:
...Well? What's goin' on here, Custodian?
Just give us the quick version, yeah?
Sieg:
Of course. I was just about to.
Siegfried:
I see. So that is why both the Black and Red camps have gathered here.
Siegfried:
Very well, I shall lend you my aid.
Sieg:
Thank you.
Mordred:
So this isn't the Great Holy Grail War?
Damn. What a drag.
Achilles:
Go ahead and sit the rest out if you want.
Not like one more Saber's gonna make a difference.
Mordred:
...What was that? You wanna fight or something, punk?
Achilles:
Hey, so you DO get it!
Achilles:
Things are getting worse by the day around here.
It's all we can do just to keep our heads above water.
Achilles:
If you're not gonna help us fight, then get lost.
Mordred:
...Now I get it. 'Course, it was pretty obvious just looking at you.
Achilles:
Oh yeah?
Mordred:
You're pissin' me off. C'mon. Let's go.
You and me. No weapons. Just fists.
Achilles:
Now you're talking...!
Fran:
Uhhh!!!
Mordred:
Hey! What was that for, Frankenstein!?
That really hurt!
Mordred:
Huh?
...Don't fight in the courtyard?
Mordred:
It's small, and if we fight, we'll kill the flowers?
Fran:
Uh!
Mordred:
...Tch.
Fine, whatever.
Mordred:
You heard her.
If we're gonna do this, we gotta take it outside.
Achilles:
...Eh, pass. Moment's gone.
She took all the fun out of it.
Mordred:
Oh yeah?
Chiron:
I'm glad to see such esteemed heroes getting along so well.
Both:
The hell we are!
Chiron:
Not to worry. You'll get along fine once you start fighting side by side, whether you like it or not.
Chiron:
And I will not take no for an answer.
Atalante:
Heh... It seems things worked out nicely.
Achilles:
Gimme a break...
Mordred:
Took the words right outta my mouth.
Now then.
Mordred:
Custodian, have you started losing ownership of the Greater Grail, or not?
Sieg:
I have, yes. I'm steadily losing control.
Fujimaru 1:
Why didn't you say so sooner!?
Mordred:
Then there's no point in fighting these guys off.
Chiron:
I see. Then what do you suggest?
Mordred:
Oh come the hell on. You're telling me the “Great Sage” hasn't figured this out? The only thing still left is the Hanging Gardens.
Chiron:
Yes, I suppose you're right. I'd been putting it off because of how dangerous it is...
Chiron:
...but now that we have this many capable fighters on our side, attacking it has become a viable option.
Chiron:
However, I believe the Hanging Gardens is the Assassin of Red...Semiramis's Noble Phantasm. Correct, Sir Sieg?
Sieg:
Yes.
Sieg:
As long as she's in that garden,
Semiramis is as powerful as a Ruler.
Chiron:
Back when we were fighting her,
all she did was just bombard us from her garden.
Chiron:
But, if we board the garden ourselves,
it will be a different matter.
Chiron:
All twelve of us will have to focus on defending ourselves when we're there.
Chiron:
Our chances of victory are...slim at best.
Atalante:
Why do we not simply attack now, before nightfall?
Avicebron:
I actually tried sending a flying golem in there yesterday, at Chiron's behest...
Avicebron:
...but as soon as night fell,
it was teleported back to the surface.
Avicebron:
So we believe that our enemy has already taken measures against a daytime attack.
Achilles:
Shoulda figured it wouldn't be that easy.
Atalante:
Yes, that WILL make this very difficult...
Atalante:
I have only seen it from a distance at night,
but its defenses are obviously quite formidable.
Avicebron:
Were you able to make it up there, Custodian?
Sieg:
Well... During the Great Holy Grail War,
the Black Team's Master's used stolen airplanes...
Sieg:
And Rider–Astolfo, that is... Well, he rode his hippogriff up to it, dodging its defenses all the way.
Sieg:
On top of that, our Ruler used a defensive skill that protected us from more than half of the bombardment Semiramis unleashed from her garden.
Sieg:
Right now, we have Achilles's chariot and Astolfo's hippogriff, but–
Avicebron:
I'm afraid it will be difficult to attack the garden with those alone.
Avicebron:
Convenient as it would be were she to simply open the garden's gates to us, I rather doubt she will be so accommodating. More likely, she will defend her garden quite fiercely.
Mordred:
Hey, Chiron, got any brilliant ideas to get us in there?
Chiron:
Such things are always useful when there is a weakness to exploit, but I am afraid no amount of planning or brilliance can break those defenses.
Chiron:
I'm afraid we may have no choice but to charge through the front door. Sir Sieg, is your true body recovered enough to be able to move?
Sieg:
...I've had it resting the last few days to focus on healing up.
Sieg:
If nothing else, it should be able to fly now.
Sieg:
But even so, breaking in will be difficult. If I take another Noble Phantasm, I'll fall right out of the sky.
Sieg:
Especially if it happens to be Siegfried's.
Sieg:
His Noble Phantasm is especially dangerous to me,
given that it slew a dragon.
Sieg:
Even the slightest scratch from it could send me crashing down.
Siegfried:
...I'm sorry I caused such trouble for you while I was on the opposing side.
Fran:
Ugh.
Siegfried:
...?
Mordred:
She says, “Don't worry 'bout it.”
Chiron:
Unfortunately, we have no choice but for you to fly if we are to assault the garden's front gates.
Sieg:
It's not that I'm scared...
Well, no, I guess I AM scared.
Sieg:
I'm scared I won't actually be able to do this–that I won't be able to get you there safely.
Chiron:
Oh? Apologies. It seems I was not clear. We will, of course, ALL be contributing to this frontal assault.
Chiron:
You may be the Greater Grail's Custodian, but I would never put this entirely on your shoulders alone.
Achilles:
In that case, Astolfo and I'll back you up,
since we can both fly too.
Astolfo:
Damn skippy we will!
Astolfo:
Don't worry, I promise we'll keep you and Fujimaru safe up there!
Shakespeare:
Then I'll stay here and watch the–On second thought, I'd better come along too. I'd be no match for those Dragon Tooth Warriors on my own.
Shakespeare:
Well, I'd better prepare a sonnet to sing the praises of you, our great heroes! That will surely make fortune smile upon you!
Shakespeare:
Now then, I'm off to write! Only a few hours left until deadline! Time to get that ink flowing, William!
Avicebron:
Hmm. In my case...I suppose I'll have some golems fly in front of the dragon, to act as his shield.
Avicebron:
If I make full use of the Millennia Fortress's walls for material, they should last at least a little while.
Atalante:
I suppose I could pick off any attackers with my bow...
Sieg:
...
...
Atalante:
Do you know something, Custodian?
Sieg:
Atalante, you, uh...
You have another Noble Phantasm.
Sieg:
I heard you used it to fly during the Great Holy Grail War.
Atalante:
...The Calydonian Boar's pelt!
Atalante:
I remember now. You are right.
There IS more than one way to use the boar's pelt.
Atalante:
Surprising that I would use it to try to win the war, though... I must have been quite desperate.
Fujimaru 1:
Can you still use it?
Atalante:
I will figure something out.
Atalante:
I do not know that I will be able to stay in the air for overly long, but I should be able to defy gravity for at least a short while.
Jack:
Mommy, Mommy.
Can we use our mist?
Fujimaru 1:
Mist?
Fujimaru 2:
You mean your second Noble Phantasm?
Jack:
Uh-huh.
It can...uh... What's the word again?
Jack:
You know, I can choose who it goes around.
Do you know what I mean, Mr. Horse Servant?
Chiron:
So you can freely select who your mist envelops...
Chiron:
That sounds like it can be directed, then.
Jack:
Yep! That's it.
Sieg:
...Aha, now I see.
So back then, that's how she–
Jack:
We're gonna ride on Mr. Custodian's back along with Mommy!
Chiron:
Yes, good point.
Avicebron, Shakespeare.
Chiron:
I'd like you two to ride on Fafnir's back as well.
Fran:
Ugh...
Mordred:
Hey, Frankenstein...
I mean, Berserker?
Fran:
Uh?
Mordred:
You and I are gonna team up,
so I want you staying put on the ground.
Fran:
Ugh?
Uh...?
Mordred:
Ah, don't worry so much!
I got a brilliant plan, trust me!
Chiron:
Is there a legend about you flying that I was unaware of?
Mordred:
Nah, nothing like that. Don't worry, though.
I'll figure something out!
Mordred:
Long as we get up there, it doesn't matter how, right?
I'll get us there! Just you watch!
Mordred:
We'll go shooting up there like a rocket!
Fujimaru 1:
So...you're going to explode?
Mordred:
Hell no!
Fujimaru 2:
You mean you're gonna use your Ma
Mordred:
Shh.
Mordred:
That's a damn secret, okay?
Fran:
Uh...?
Sieg:
What about you, Siegfried, Chiron, and Spartacus?
What will you guys do?
Siegfried:
Good question...
Chiron:
I'll accompany Achilles in his chariot.
Assuming that's all right with you?
Achilles:
Fine by me.
Achilles:
Chariots aren't made for just one rider anyway.
Astolfo:
Wanna ride on my hippogriff with me, Siegfried?
I'm sure we can find room for one more!
Siegfried:
...It would seem that is my only option.
Siegfried:
I'll make sure to defend against the other me's Noble Phantasm.
Achilles:
Guess that just leaves this guy.
Hey, Spartacus.
Spartacus:
I refuse.
Achilles:
Why!?
Spartacus:
You bear the stink of oppressors.
Now that I know our destination, I will find my own way!
Spartacus:
Nothing is impossible for me.
The sky is but one more obstacle to be overcome.
Sieg:
Please calm down.
Sieg:
Spartacus, you may be a Servant, but I don't believe you have any skills or Noble Phantasms that would let you fly.
Spartacus:
Nothing is impossible in this world.
Spartacus:
If birds are capable of flight,
then humans must be as well.
Spartacus:
If I must become a bird to reach the garden,
then that is what I shall do.
Spartacus:
Yes, I shall be a small, elegant bird,
soaring gracefully across the sky...
Chiron:
A-a bird, you say...?
Spartacus:
Cock-a-doodle-doooooo!
Fujimaru 1:
Welp, you won't be soaring...
Atalante:
...Well, you cannot expect to become a bird overnight, Spartacus. If I were a bird, I would be insulted to hear you think it such a trivial thing to do.
Atalante:
Perhaps we could send a rope down for you? With muscles like that, you should have no trouble climbing up to the garden.
Spartacus:
...
...You are no oppressor...
Mordred:
What the hell does this lunkhead use to figure out what's an oppressor anyway?
Chiron:
Good.
Now we all have a plan to reach the garden.
Spartacus:
Indeed.
Chiron:
...Probably.
Fujimaru 1:
We're fine... Yeah... Toootally fine...
Spartacus:
I will prove to you that my muscles are truly worthy of your absolute trust.
Chiron:
All right, then. You three new Servants will officially join our battle lineup.
Chiron:
Our next step is get you acclimated to working with [♂ Sir /♀ Lady] Fujimaru as a team.
Astolfo:
Sounds good to me!
Siegfried:
Understood.
Mordred:
Aw, c'mon. Really? Do I gotta?
I already know how to fight just fine.
Chiron:
Indeed. I am certain a warrior of your skill can manage quite capably.
Chiron:
But working with a team requires more than mere combat skill alone.
Chiron:
Besides, there's nothing better than the feeling one gets after landing a beautiful team combo.
Chiron:
All the more so when it happens in live combat,
rather than in practice.
Mordred:
...All right. I guess I could give it a shot.
Sieg:
(She's like putty in his hands...!)
Astolfo:
'kay then, I'll go first!
Looking forward to fighting with ya, Custodian!
Sieg:
Thank you. The pleasure's all mine.
Chiron:
Avicebron, would you mind creating some training golems?
Avicebron:
Very well.
Chiron:
All right, Astolfo, focus on teamwork,
and do not run off on your own.
Astolfo:
Aye, aye, sir!
Chiron:
I will offer advice, but nothing more.
Good luck, you two.
--BATTLE--
Astolfo:
Wooowie! I'm all tuckered out!
Bleeeah.
Chiron:
Teamwork is an excellent way to compensate for one's weaknesses, but it can also greatly enhance your strengths as well.
Chiron:
Try to keep that in mind once the fighting begins in earnest.
Astolfo:
'kaaay!
Chiron:
Siegfried, you're up next.
Siegfried:
Right.
Chiron:
Most of your opponents' attacks will be focused on you, Siegfried.
Chiron:
You may block them, heal from them, evade them, trade places with another... You are, in short, free to handle this however you see fit.
Chiron:
Well then, here we go!
--BATTLE--
Siegfried:
Now I see.
This is nice.
Sieg:
...
...
Fujimaru 1:
Something wrong?
Sieg:
Oh, no, everything's fine.
Sieg:
I guess I just got caught up in the moment...
Let's keep going.
Chiron:
Last, but certainly not least: Mordred.
Mordred:
Yeah, yeah, fine. This teamwork stuff's a pain in the ass. I'm just gonna go nuts.
Chiron:
That's perfectly fine.
We will simply follow your lead.
Mordred:
Wait, really? You will?
Chiron:
Of course. Rampaging about like a Berserker seems to suit you rather well.
Mordred:
Well, hey, how 'bout that. Guess I don't gotta worry about you clowns. I like that!
Mordred:
Okay, Master, what do you say we get this party started!?
Chiron:
Are you two ready?
Chiron:
Mordred appears to be well suited to quick, decisive battles, so let's try to hit the opponent as hard and fast as we possibly can.
Chiron:
Your goal will be to take out the heavy golems before they can become a threat. All right, begin!
--BATTLE--
Mordred:
...Damn, that was close!
These golems are way tougher than I thought!
Mordred:
But I'll finish these jerks off!
Chiron:
Brilliant work.
Mordred:
Aw yeah, piece of cake!
Sieg:
Have you got a handle on how all three teams operate now?
Fujimaru 1:
Definitely.
Sieg:
Great. Then let's take a break.
Sieg:
We still have some time until the sun sets and the Hanging Gardens shows itself.
Fujimaru 2:
I could still use a little more time.
Sieg:
I see... Then let's discuss our teamwork a little more, shall we?
Sieg:
We should still have enough time for that.
Chiron:
I'm afraid we will need to leave this fortress behind. If you have any unfinished business here, now is the time to take care of it.
Fran:
Uh...
Sieg:
I'm sorry, Frankenstein. Well...you could pick some flowers to take with you, right?
Fran:
Uh!
Mordred:
Aw, look at her, all excited...
Sieg:
You two really are good friends.
Mordred:
Who, us? Eh, it's pretty simple.
Mordred:
We're a lot alike.
Sieg:
You are...?
Mordred:
Forget it.
Mordred:
Anyway, what about you and the Saber of Black?
You got some kinda problem with Siegfried?
Sieg:
No, nothing like that.
At least, not as he is now.
Mordred:
Aw, really? And here I was thinking he must've handed you your ass back during the other war or something.
Sieg:
That's...
Siegfried:
Sir Custodian, may I have a word with you?
Sieg:
With me...?
Sieg:
Okay.
What's this about?
Siegfried:
It seems none of us has any memory of the Great Holy Grail War we once fought here...
Sieg:
That's right. I think you've all been summoned from the records leading up to it.
Sieg:
Usually, your memories would be engraved in the Throne of Heroes, but the versions of you here right now are not actually complete.
Sieg:
Alternatively, someone might have sealed them away on purpose. Perhaps whoever is orchestrating all this.
Siegfried:
I'm told you still have your memories of the war, Sir Custodian. If that's true, I have a question for you...
Sieg:
Of course.
...Anything.
Siegfried:
Did I stay true to myself?
Sieg:
...
...
Sieg:
I... I'm afraid I can't answer that.
Siegfried:
I see. That's all right. I was just curious.
Siegfried:
No need to give it further thought.
Siegfried:
Now that I've been summoned here, whatever grudges I may have held in the past are of no importance.
Siegfried:
I will simply fight to the best of my ability.
Sieg:
Thank you.
That will be a huge help.
Siegfried:
That said, I still find it hard to believe that you are this evil dragon, Sir Custodian...
Fujimaru 1:
I think you bathed in this dragon's blood once, right?
Siegfried:
I did. ...I only hope I need never fight such a battle again.
Siegfried:
It is too terrible to recall...but the feeling of it is forever etched into my soul.
Fujimaru 1:
I'm, uh... I'm sorry...
Siegfried:
?
Siegfried:
What is it, Master of Chaldea?
You look terribly embarrassed.
Siegfried:
An apology?
Siegfried:
Hmm, I don't know what it is you are sorry for...
But I promise you, I'm fine. You needn't worry about me.
Siegfried:
You are a Master, a crystallization of the future.
Siegfried:
If you deem my aid necessary,
I would be glad to lend it to you.
Sieg:
I, uh, I see.
Sieg:
So Siegfried fought a different Fafnir in Orleans...
Sieg:
...Don't worry, Fujimaru.
Sieg:
I'm sure he meant it when he said he never wanted to fight a battle like that again...
Sieg:
...but I doubt a hero like him would let something like that stop him from stepping up when he's needed.
Sieg:
I'm sure he'll do whatever he has to.
All the more so if the fate of humanity is at stake.
Sieg:
After all, he's the sort of man who would risk his life just to save a homunculus like me...
Sieg:
He even put me ahead of his own desires,
and those of the person he had pledged to fight.
Sieg:
He ended up throwing all that away, because of me.
Sieg:
I don't regret doing what I had to do to survive.
But, I guess...
Sieg:
...Hmm, it's hard to explain.
Sieg:
I wanted to survive, and I want Siegfried to continue fighting.
Sieg:
I feel like those two desires contradict each other,
but then again, maybe they don't...?
Fujimaru 1:
Do you feel guilty or something?
Sieg:
...Yes, I suppose I do.
Sieg:
After I became the Greater Grail's Custodian, I learned a lot of things I would have been happier not knowing.
Sieg:
Among them were things that happened without me having been aware at the time.
Sieg:
...The last Servant Atalante fought was Achilles.
Sieg:
Frankenstein was forced to use her Noble Phantasm's full power when she fought with Mordred, even though she knew doing so would be suicide.
Sieg:
And...a great hero like Siegfried gave up his heart, all to save my life.
Sieg:
They fought long and hard to acquire the Holy Grail.
All of their wishes were pure and righteous.
Sieg:
But in the end, I was the one who ended up with the Greater Grail.
Sieg:
...Ever since then, I've been wondering whether I did the right thing or not.
Sieg:
What would you have done? Would you have been able to accept a wish like that, and allowed the Greater Grail to grant it?
Sieg:
Or would you have made the same choice I did?
Sieg:
Or...would you have taken another option?
One I didn't see at the time...?
Fujimaru 1:
I'd have had to be there myself.
Fujimaru 2:
That's really hard to say.
Sieg:
Right. That makes sense.
Sieg:
...
...Hm?
Sieg:
That's weird. It's not as though my problem has been resolved, but...
Sieg:
...for some reason, I feel a bit better now.
Fujimaru 1:
Maybe you just needed to talk about it?
Sieg:
...That could be it.
Sieg:
It's hard to repress the urge to talk. Maybe that's not so surprising, since I've manifested as a terminal.
Sieg:
We still have some time before we leave for the Hanging Gardens. Would it be okay if we talk a little more?
Fujimaru 1:
Of course!
Sieg:
Thank you.
In that case...
Sieg:
...I'd love to hear about the Servants you know. Without violating their privacy, of course.
Sieg:
...I see.
So you know a ninja, huh?
Sieg:
Mechanical?
But...she's not a robot, then?
Sieg:
I had no idea they had the technology back then to create a machine capable of becoming a Heroic Spirit.
Sieg:
I guess ninja really are something else.
Sieg:
So Divine Spirits have materialized in your world? I see. I guess that makes sense, given the crisis humanity is facing.
Sieg:
Huh? The goddess of virginity and the moon that Atalante worships is actually a besotted romantic?
Sieg:
And Orion...is a tiny teddy bear?
...Are they even strong?
Sieg:
...I would think that being loved by so many people is a good thing.
Sieg:
So why do you look so exhausted?
Sieg:
It's a heavy weight to carry?
I wasn't aware love had mass.
Sieg:
I guess I still have a lot to learn...
Sieg:
Blackbeard.
The pirate.
Sieg:
I see. I understand now.
That one is beyond understanding.
Sieg:
Thank you for sharing all that.
Chaldea...sounds like a lot of fun.
Fujimaru 1:
Can't you come to visit?
Sieg:
I'm afraid not.
Sieg:
It might be possible, but even if it was, I'm obligated to stay here and take care of the Greater Grail.
Sieg:
Once this battle is over, I'm going to stay here. I'm...waiting for someone to show up.
Sieg:
That's the one decision I can't change.
Fujimaru 1:
I see. That's too bad...
Sieg:
If it was difficult or painful to do that,
I might not be able to handle it.
Sieg:
But it's just a long wait, so it's no trouble at all.
Sieg:
Still...it's nice of you to be concerned about me.
I appreciate that.
Sieg:
I was worried I might have upset you, summoning you out here all of a sudden like this.
Sieg:
...The next battle is going to be for the Hanging Gardens.
Sieg:
Avicebron said he would make a saddle for you,
so make sure you hold on tight to that.
Sieg:
But even if you fall,
I'm sure one of the heroes will save you.
Sieg:
It could be Astolfo, Achilles,
Atalante, or Avicebron...
Sieg:
...but whoever it is,
I'm certain one of them will save you if you need it.
Sieg:
Anyway, we'd better get back.
We need to get ready to leave too.
Section 6: A Dreamlike Moment
Fujimaru 1:
Guess I won't be seeing THIS room again...
Sieg:
No, probably not.
Sieg:
...Would you like one last thing to eat before we go?
Fujimaru 1:
No, that's all right.
Sieg:
Okay. In that case, we might as well clean the place up a bit.
Sieg:
...Hm? I think I hear the Servants calling me.
Sieg:
Hang on, I'll be right back.
Fujimaru 2:
Sure, that sounds good.
Sieg:
Okay, just sit tight.
I'll be back with some food soon.
Fujimaru 1:
What's keeping him...?
Astolfo:
Whooo's ready for a picnic!?
Mordred:
Not a damn picnic!
Mordred:
Aw, crap.
He's stronger than he looks...!
Fujimaru 1:
Wh-what's this all about?
Sieg:
Rider–Astolfo said he wanted to have a picnic in the courtyard.
Sieg:
That it was worth celebrating so many Servants getting together like this, even if we're still missing three.
Astolfo:
What I REALLY said was, “What's the harm?
You ARE hungry, right? Come on, let's do it!”
Astolfo:
And the rest is history.
Mordred:
What...No it isn't!
What are you talking about!?
Fran:
Ugh!
Astolfo:
Right!?
Mordred:
Hey! Don't you go turning Fran against me!
Fran:
Ugh, ugh!
Sieg:
...Well... Here we all are, out in the courtyard,
having sandwiches together...
Sieg:
Having everyone here together is...a bit of a surprise, really.
Fujimaru 1:
You said it.
Mordred:
Hey, gimme that one. I'm not eating any of that egg salad shit! I want some MEAT!
Astolfo:
But you're eating it already! AND you tried to steal my sandwich without even asking!
Fran:
Uh, uh♪
Spartacus:
Sandwiches...trap meat and other food...
Does this mean...bread is an oppressor...?
Avicebron:
Even if it were, you can't just eat the sandwich's insides. Then you'd be oppressing the bread.
Atalante:
Hmm.
Strawberry custard...
Atalante:
This is very sweet.
Children would love this.
Jack:
Mmm, yummy!
Atalante:
As I thought.
Jack:
Strawberries taste like blood!
Both're really sweet!
Atalante:
I, um...do not think that is true...?
In fact, they are...ah...really quite different.
Jack:
You sure?
Siegfried:
Hmm. These would make perfect battlefield rations.
Siegfried:
You can eat them in one bite,
and they provide excellent, balanced nutrition.
Siegfried:
...Not that we require nutrition as Servants,
but old habits die hard.
Mordred:
Nothing wrong with thinking that way!
Mordred:
My king never batted an eye at whatever she ate,
no matter how bad it tasted.
Mordred:
It was like she didn't care one damn bit about flavor, just the nutrients! I'll take your approach over cold efficiency any day!
Fujimaru 1:
Maybe she was actually something of a gourmand?
Mordred:
My father?
Mordred:
That inhuman old fool? Hah! Gimme a break!
Mordred:
If she turns out to be a gourmand,
then I'll eat every one of Gawain's “dishes” myself!
Fujimaru 2:
You sure she didn't actually want to eat good food?
Mordred:
Hell no.
Mordred:
It didn't matter HOW good the food was!
She'd always just give that same disinterested, “Mmm...”
Mordred:
If she actually did give a shit about food, I'll eat every one of Gawain's mashed “specials” myself!
Astolfo:
(Ooh, I think I just heard a branch opening up!)
Chiron:
...
...
Chiron:
...Mmm. These came out rather well,
if I do say so myself.
Fujimaru 1:
You made these, Teacher?
Chiron:
I did, yes, though Sieg was kind enough to procure the ingredients for me.
Sieg:
I could never make something this good on my own.
Mordred:
...Dammit, these ARE good.
Ugh, is there anything this guy CAN'T do?
Achilles:
Hell no there isn't.
My teacher's not a great sage for nothing!
Mordred:
...Can he hold a crucifix for an hour straight?
Achilles:
You bet. He can do one-finger push-ups without breaking a sweat, too.
Atalante:
Can he shoot an apple off the head of an evil chancellor?
Achilles:
In his sleep. He could shoot the chancellor too, while he was at it.
Astolfo:
Can he shoot vacuum blades just by cracking his knuckles?
Achilles:
Easily. They'll go through anything like a hot knife through butter.
Siegfried:
How long can he hold his breath while still acting at full strength?
Achilles:
As long as it takes for his opponent to keel over!
Jack:
Is he a mommy?
Achilles:
Raising kids is what he does best!
Fran:
Ugh?
(Can he come back to life with lightning?)
Achilles:
I'm not sure, but I bet he'd find a way!
Chiron:
...You really mustn't go around making such outlandish claims, Achilles. Though I suppose it bears mentioning that I could indeed manage some of those.
Sieg:
Oh, you can, huh...
Well, you certainly look like you could.
Chiron:
I admit that I can do most things better than the average person, but I cannot be the best.
Chiron:
I could not win against Achilles or Atalante in a footrace, nor could I defeat Spartacus in a contest of strength.
Chiron:
Indeed, I doubt I could defeat any of you in the areas of your respective specialties.
Chiron:
Archery may be my specialty, but even there I could never defeat, say, the likes of Arash Kamangir, who split the earth itself.
Chiron:
I am a teacher, not a hero.
I am not meant to stand above others.
Chiron:
In that sense, Achilles is not my only pupil here.
Chiron:
Sir Sieg, [♂ Sir /♀ Lady] Fujimaru.
Chiron:
I consider both of you to be my pupils as well.
Chiron:
I only wish we had more time together.
There are so many other things I wish I could teach you...
Fujimaru 1:
Come to Chaldea!
Chiron:
Hahaha, I'll have to think about that.
Fujimaru 2:
I know a girl who'd love to learn from you, too.
Chiron:
Oho.
Mash Kyrielight, hm?
Chiron:
I see, I see. It sounds like I already have quite the formidable rival teacher.
Chiron:
At any rate, if we are ever summoned to Chaldea,
it will be as our true selves.
Chiron:
I expect, should that come to pass, that I will have learned all manner of new things, and may even be able to teach you more as well.
Mordred:
Are you freakin' kidding me with this shit?
Mordred:
There's no point continuing to study and stuff once you're a Servant, right?
Sieg:
...Not the way I see it.
Sieg:
After all, I know someone who kept learning even after they became a Servant.
Mordred:
Oh really? Who?
Sieg:
...I'm afraid I can't tell you.
I wasn't actually there, you see.
Sieg:
But I do know that hero never stopped moving forward.
That much, I can say for absolute certain.
Sieg:
...All right, it's going to be night soon.
Sieg:
I hate to say it, but it's time to bring this picnic to a close.
Fujimaru 1:
Thank you for the wonderful meal.
Sieg:
Of course.
I'm glad you enjoyed it.
--ARROW--
Evil Dragon:
I guess it's three minutes until we storm the gardens.
Is everyone ready!?
Chiron:
No issues here.
Atalante:
...This outfit seems a bit...much, no?
It feels more like a swimsuit than a suit of armor.
Atalante:
Personally, I much prefer my normal attire...
Achilles:
I think you look great!
I don't see a problem at all!
Atalante:
I was not asking you.
...Still, I suppose I can make do, since it allows me to fly.
Astolfo:
Wahahahaha!
I wish someone could take a picture of this!
Siegfried:
Indeed. ...How you doing there, Hippogriff?
I hope I'm not too heavy for you.
Astolfo:
He says you're very heavy.
Siegfried:
That figures!
Achilles:
Man, looking at this thing up close,
it's absurdly freaking large!
Evil Dragon:
We'll soon be entering the garden's firing range. Everyone, make sure to evade or block the Tiamtum Ūmu like your life depends on it!
Avicebron:
All right, now seems a good time to make my golem shield.
My body is a red shield...Gevurah Armadura!
Astolfo:
Hippogriff...dimension evade!
Achilles:
All right, we'd better–
A：???:
Oh, I just had a revelation.
Chiron:
Oh?
Who was that...?
Achilles:
Xanthos.
What do you want?
Fujimaru 1:
Is that horse talking...!?
Shakespeare:
Ah yes, that is Xanthos. One of the divine steeds that Poseidon himself gave to Achilles.
Shakespeare:
I believe it is also the only one of the three that can talk.
A：Xanthus:
I was just thinking.
A：Xanthus:
How come you and Lord Chiron are the only ones not on the enemy side, Lord Achilles?
Achilles:
...Is that really important right now?
A：Xanthus:
It is, yes.
Achilles:
All right then, let's hear it.
A：Xanthus:
...I think you two must have been quite expensive.
A：Xanthus:
That's not to say Lady Mordred, Lord Siegfried,
and Lord Karna weren't expensive as well, of course.
Chiron:
What do you mean by expensive?
A：Xanthus:
You know, like in a strategy game.
A：Xanthus:
In games like that,
it is very expensive to create powerful units.
A：Xanthus:
First you have to work your way up the tech tree,
and that takes a long time on its own.
A：Xanthus:
And all this time, our opponent in this game,
this Great Holy Grail War within the Greater Grail...
A：Xanthus:
...has been laying the groundwork to produce the most powerful units possible.
A：Xanthus:
No doubt whoever it is put in a lot of hard work.
So, if this opponent is in the Hanging Gardens now...
A：Xanthus:
...then of course, they'll be waiting for the right time to use their new units. This just occurred to me.
Chiron:
...Setting aside how you even know what a strategy game is...
Chiron:
...I must admit that is a strong possibility.
In which case, our first move will have to be...
Chiron:
Achilles.
Achilles:
Y-yeah?
What is it, Teacher?
Chiron:
I want you to neutralize the other side's Achilles.
I'll do the same with their Chiron.
Achilles:
...Aw, c'mon, Teacher.
Xanthos has a history of blowing smoke up your–
Achilles:
...Okay, yep.
That was me, all right...
Chiron:
It would seem he was right on the money.
Chiron:
Everyone? Your attention, if I may?
Chiron:
My Noble Phantasm has no telegraph or tell of any kind. If the enemy Chiron uses it on you, I'm afraid you'll just have to trust in your luck.
Atalante:
You may as well tell us to roll over and die!
(↑ Luck rank: E)
Evil Dragon:
Yeah.
That is hardly encouraging advice.
Shakespeare:
My, my. At long last,
the battle with all fourteen Servants will begin!
Shakespeare:
Though we yet lack the Assyrian empress AND the great hero of India!
Shakespeare:
To say nothing of the enemy having the Hanging Gardens to serve as their airborne fortress!
Shakespeare:
...Do we really have a hope of winning this?
Evil Dragon:
You're the great writer!
Figure something out!
Avicebron:
...Their assault is relentless!
Astolfo:
Hang on. Where the hell are Mordred and Fran!?
Oh, and Spartacus, I guess.
Mordred:
All right then.
Fran:
Uh?
Mordred:
Huh? You wanna know my plan to get us up there?
Mordred:
It's simple.
I'm gonna blast up there with my Mana Burst.
Fran:
Ugh?
Mordred:
Then there was no point in you staying behind?
'Course there was!
Mordred:
See, even with my Mana Burst,
it's gonna be tough getting all the way up there myself.
Mordred:
But not with you here.
Fran:
Ugh!?
Mordred:
You got it.
Your Noble Phantasm's all about lightning too, right?
Mordred:
So if we both power each other up, then boom!
We're in business!
Fran:
Ugh...
Mordred:
Don't worry, it'll be fine! If we don't make it up there, all that'll happen is we'll crash right back down to the ground.
Fran:
Uh...
Mordred:
Oh, right.
Can't have this armor weighing me down.
Mordred:
There we go.
Now, let's do this thing!
Fran:
Uh...
Mordred:
One, two...THREE!
Avicebron:
Hmm. So much for my shield.
Karna:
...
...
Evil Dragon:
It's Karna...!
Jack:
We'll make some mist...!
Jack:
He keeps blowing it away!
This is why we hate really powerful Servants!
Avicebron:
I suppose we have no choice but for me to take the field. Shakespeare, you will be the next sacrifice after the five seconds it takes him to kill me.
Shakespeare:
Wait!
Shakespeare:
I don't mind throwing my life away if there's no other choice, but we must have SOME alternative we have not yet tried before it comes to that!
Avicebron:
Hmm.
...I suppose you're right.
Avicebron:
Say, for instance if someone capable of saving us were to suddenly fall from the sky like a shooting star.
Fujimaru 1:
Huh?
Fujimaru 2:
Did anyone else just notice a flash of light from the groun
Karna:
...?
Evil Dragon:
...Something just shot up, sent Karna flying,
and smacked into the Hanging Gardens...didn't it...?
Evil Dragon:
...I don't want to think too hard about it, but...I wonder if it might not have been Mordred and Fran...
Mordred:
...(Gasp!)
Mordred:
...Aw shit, close one. But also kinda awesome. For a second there, I saw Father's hand reaching out for me.
Fran:
...That...was...awful...!
Mordred:
Hey, you actually talked!
Fran:
So...reckless!
Mordred:
Hey, don't sweat it!
What matters is that we made it here!
Mordred:
Woo! Yeah, time to SMASH!
That oughta help all the other slowpokes catch up!
Fran:
Uh...
UhhhhhhAAAAAAHHH!!!
Mordred:
Whoa, hey!
I didn't mean right this secon–Ah, dammit...
Mordred:
Eh, screw it. Might as well kick this party off with my Noble Phantasm!
Mordred:
...Clarent Blood Arthur!
Evil Dragon:
That was reckless and ridiculous, but it was very helpful! Now's our chance to head inside the gardens.
Evil Dragon:
I'll switch back to my terminal after we land.
Fujimaru 1:
Are you sure it's okay to leave this body unattended?
Evil Dragon:
Without my soul inside it,
it's basically an oversized monster costume.
Evil Dragon:
It'd be kind of annoying if it were destroyed,
but if it comes to that, I'll just make a new one!
Evil Dragon:
Good, we made it.
Now to switch back...!
Sieg:
...There we go.
Now come on, let's hurry.
Sieg:
The Assassin of Red, Semiramis.
The Lancer of Red, Karna.
Sieg:
And the Lancer of Black, Vlad III.
Sieg:
Since we have other Servants on our side,
we'll have to defeat them, no matter what.
Sieg:
...It's possible these three are the ones seeking the Greater Grail.
Fujimaru 1:
Even Karna...?
Sieg:
True, that would be very out of character,
so it's probably not Karna.
Sieg:
If there's anyone who wants the Greater Grail more than anything...
Sieg:
...it would have to be that other man.
Mordred:
Hey, there they are.
'Sup, Custodian?
Fran:
Uhhh...
Sieg:
So you're all right...
How about you, Frankenstein? Are you okay?
Fran:
Never...again.
Ever.
Sieg:
(Wow! It was so bad it actually got her to speak...!)
Mordred:
Hey, just 'cause our opponents can think doesn't mean they can really THINK, right?
Mordred:
Best they can do is some normal,
orthodox planning, y'know?
Mordred:
So I figured if we hit them with a reckless, batshit insane plan like mine, where one false step would get you killed, they'd HAVE to fall for it!
Sieg:
So you actually thought that far ahead...
Fujimaru 1:
I'm not sure I'd call it “thinking”...
Mordred:
Well it was, dammit!
Fujimaru 2:
I'm thinking this was dumb luck. Like, really dumb luck.
Fran:
Uh, uh!
(Vigorous nod)
Mordred:
Hey, we're up against that bitchy empress who owns these gardens, right?
Mordred:
Not really sure why,
but that lady seriously pisses me off!
Mordred:
Besides, even if we'd been on the same team during the war, I bet we'd have been at each other's throats the entire time anyway!
Sieg:
(She's certainly got that right.)
Mordred:
All right, Master of Chaldea!
Mordred:
Just point us at whoever's face we need to smash in!
Section 7: Decisive Battle: Hanging Gardens
Mordred:
Get...OUTTA HERE!
Mordred:
All right!
Mordred:
Fujimaru!
Hold out your fist!
Fujimaru 1:
M-my fist?
Fujimaru 2:
Okay?
Mordred:
We won! Hell yeah! WINNER, WINNER, CHICKEN DINNER!!! Awww yeah!
Fran:
Uh?
Sieg:
...Is your hand okay?
Fujimaru 1:
I-I dunno... I can't...feel it anymore...
Sieg:
I think Mordred just sort of...forgot you're a normal human.
Fujimaru 2:
Forget “okay.” Do...do I still have a hand?
Fran:
Uh, uh.
(You do.)
Spartacus:
I have ascended!
Jack:
Mr. Muscleman! It's about time!
Hiya.
Siegfried:
...I can't believe you actually climbed all the way here during that fierce battle...
Jack:
That rope held up really well!
Spartacus:
Indeed. It is a rope with a rebellious spirit!
Fujimaru 1:
Are you okay? Can you still fight?
Spartacus:
Rebelling against oppressors is my greatest love AND greatest power!
Sieg:
It'll be morning soon...but the Hanging Gardens are still here, just like we thought they'd be.
Sieg:
I'm guessing the Assassin of Red joined our side after we won that last battle.
Sieg:
Which means these gardens belong to both our enemy, and our ally.
Semiramis:
Right you are.
Your plan was rash, but successful.
Sieg:
...There you are.
The Assassin of Red, Semiramis.
Semiramis:
I have a fairly good idea of what's going on here.
Semiramis:
It was your negligence that led to this situation.
Wasn't it, Custodian?
Sieg:
...You may be right.
Sieg:
The last wish remaining in this Greater Grail was one that should never be granted, but it was also nobler than any other wish had ever been.
Sieg:
I never thought about touching it myself.
I couldn't have even if I wanted to.
Semiramis:
That explains it.
Semiramis:
No wonder a mere human, a mere mage,
a mere Master, made it so far then.
Chiron:
...Does that mean you know who our enemy is?
Semiramis:
Oh yes, I know him all too well. I may not have my memories of the war either, but I do have these gardens.
Semiramis:
As such, it was a trivial matter to learn of him.
Semiramis:
Ahh, it seems another has been revived.
Karna:
...Forgive me. We really made you work back there.
Siegfried:
Don't worry about it. I will admit, though, that your attack was so powerful, it's almost a shame we're on the same side now.
Karna:
Thank you.
Indeed, I wish we could have had a proper battle.
Sieg:
...
...
Semiramis:
All of you, come with me. Now that thirteen of us have been revived, night and day no longer matter.
Semiramis:
Our enemy awaits us before the Greater Grail.
Fujimaru 1:
Our enemy?
Semiramis:
Yes, our enemy.
A man, Master of Chaldea.
Semiramis:
The only Master other than you in this entire world.
Narration:
I have lost. Leave me be, and continue onward.
I regret that I have no gift for you apart from my defeat.
Narration:
...Captured.
Narration:
Armor of gold, godkiller lance, lone kshatriya of the great Mahabharata, warrior, brave, Hero of Benefaction.
Narration:
Karna.
Narration:
But...I am tired now. Tired enough even to forgive your deception. ...What's more, I have lost.
Narration:
...Captured.
Narration:
The oldest known poisoner, the empress as dreadful as she is beautiful, the queen of Assyria who desired not love, but power.
Narration:
Semiramis.
Narration:
Thirteen Servants in total. And now, I have perfect reproduction data for all of them.
Narration:
...Enough to begin the Great Holy Grail War once again.
Narration:
Soon, I will reach the number of battles needed to shut down the wish made upon the Grail...
Narration:
...and tamper with it myself.
Narration:
...I reach out my hand, over and over and over.
E：???:
I copied thirteen Servants, created shadows,
and set the stage as best I could.
E：???:
I am the only one left, and now,
I shall become the final Servant.
E：???:
My control over the system has reached eighty-seven percent. More than enough to grant my wish.
E：???:
And yet... And yet, and yet, and yet...!
E：???:
I am unable to speak my wish aloud!
E：???:
You... You would still resist me...!?
Semiramis:
Of course. Under normal circumstances, this system would not even grant the likes of you an audience.
Semiramis:
It matters not how many years it was in your possession. It was another, far greater mage who did the work, not you.
Semiramis:
Enough is enough, you cheap imitation of Vlad III.
Fujimaru 1:
Imitation?
Semiramis:
That's right.
This man is no Servant.
Semiramis:
And yet, he is also Vlad III.
Mordred:
How the hell's that work?
Sieg:
...I explained this to Fujimaru once before.
Sieg:
He was the Master who desired the Greater Grail more than anyone, save for myself and a certain priest.
Sieg:
He was the leader of the Black team,
and the head of the Yggdmillennia family.
Sieg:
And he was the mage who hid the Greater Grail and studied it himself for sixty years.
Sieg:
He desired the Greater Grail so much that he betrayed the Lancer of Black, Vlad III...his own Servant.
Sieg:
He is Darnic Prestone Yggdmillennia.
Darnic:
...
...Haha, hahaha, hahaha!
Darnic:
So, with the exception of the Extra class,
every Heroic Spirit from the war is assembled here!
Darnic:
Along with the homunculus who stole the Greater Grail from me! From mankind itself!
Darnic:
Khh... Ahh, the pain.
I can feel my psyche slipping away.
Darnic:
But that doesn't matter anymore,
as the reproduction is perfect.
Sieg:
...So you still desire the Greater Grail,
even though your soul is practically falling apart?
Darnic:
A tool, a THING like you could never understand.
Darnic:
No, none of you heroes could ever understand.
You've always had power to fall back on.
Darnic:
Not me. I worked myself to the bone. I racked my brain studying magecraft so intensely it nearly killed me!
Darnic:
I extended my life even as I lived in fear. I threw myself into a Holy Grail War! I commanded armies! Betrayed my allies!
Darnic:
I'm not like the three families who let their own indolence guide them until they lost sight of the goal!
Darnic:
I'M the one who wanted this Greater Grail more than anyone! I'M the one who desired it most!
Sieg:
...Whether or not that is true,
Darnic has been dead for a long time now.
Sieg:
The thing speaking now is nothing more than the lingering desires left behind after his death.
Fujimaru 1:
The desire...left behind...
Sieg:
Yes.
Sieg:
...As I said earlier, he betrayed Vlad III,
right before he died.
Sieg:
He used a Command Spell to force Vlad III to transform into a vampire and then merged with him.
Sieg:
the result was a horrid monster, neither human nor vampire.
Sieg:
But even that did not gain him the Greater Grail. A priest who was a Master for the Red team defeated him, you see.
Sieg:
That should have been the end of it.
Sieg:
When a Servant dies, they dissolve into purified magical energy, and are absorbed by the Greater Grail.
Semiramis:
...But that did not happen with him.
Semiramis:
Most likely because he was still...human.
Sieg:
Yes, that's part of it...
Sieg:
...but it's also because Darnic consumed the souls of infants to extend his life.
Sieg:
Now, he is neither human, nor Servant.
Sieg:
He is just a...thing. One driven solely by the desire to win the Holy Grail for itself.
Sieg:
That is all this “Darnic” is.
Fran:
Uh...
Mordred:
Damn... Sounds more like putting down a rabid dog than kicking ass!
Sieg:
The Greater Grail is close to falling apart. You won't even be able to activate the Third Magic, let alone reach the Root.
Sieg:
...Give it up.
Your dream ended long ago.
Darnic:
Oh no it didn't! Not yet!
Darnic:
Have you forgotten what I told you earlier?
Darnic:
I now control eighty-seven percent of the Greater Grail's system.
Darnic:
I will make far better use of it than you ever would!
Darnic:
All you've ever done with its power is sit around waiting for someone who will never come!
Sieg:
...
...
Avicebron:
What an odd thing to say. How can you make use of the Greater Grail's power when you're dead...?
Darnic:
Dead, alive, it doesn't matter.
I will always seek to control the Greater Grail!
Darnic:
Once I have it, my wish will finally be granted...!
Chiron:
...I see.
So now you are little more than a vengeful spirit.
Darnic:
But this would benefit all of you very much as well.
Darnic:
As long as I control the Greater Grail,
none of you will ever die again.
Darnic:
You would have a second–no,
a third lease on life!
Darnic:
But, if I am defeated, and this Great Holy Grail War comes to an end...
Darnic:
...all of you will disappear as well.
Darnic:
...Now, Custodian, which is the better choice?
In fact, let me make it simpler.
Darnic:
Would you rather have a third chance at life,
or just vanish with no one to remember you!
Darnic:
I swear to you all now,
on my honor as a Yggdmillennia...
Darnic:
...I will ensure that you all leave this Greater Grail, and are incarnated in the real world!
Darnic:
You will be free to do as you wish. You may make your own dreams come true, or simply wander as you please.
Darnic:
I have no intention of commanding you as my Servants.
Whatever you decide will be your business, not mine.
Sieg:
...
...
Fujimaru 1:
What're you gonna do...!?
Sieg:
I...I have no right to compel them one way or the other.
I am the Custodian. Nothing more.
Sieg:
Even if they are just reproductions, they're still conscious beings with their own unique personalities.
Sieg:
...I can't order them to their deaths.
Achilles:
...Man, Sieg, you're way beyond being a downer, you know that? You can be completely exhausting sometimes.
Sieg:
Huh?
Achilles:
Hey, Darnic Prestone Yggdmillennia.
Achilles:
Hate to break it to you,
but I'm gonna have to pass.
Darnic:
Oh? And why is that?
Achilles:
Easy. 'Cause I wouldn't really be a hero if I went along with you now, would I?
Achilles:
We're meant to live life to the fullest. Even if you trip up along the way, that doesn't invalidate what happened before the fall, or after.
Achilles:
And reproduction or not, Servant or not,
as long as I'm still me...
Achilles:
...I'm not doing anything that a real hero wouldn't do.
Mordred:
...
...Tch.
Mordred:
For once, you carrot-looking weirdo,
we're on the same page!
Achilles:
Carrot-looking weirdo!?
Mordred:
I can't really say I got the cleanest hands around here...but that sure as hell doesn't mean I'll be siding with you!
Mordred:
Even I'd feel pretty gross going along with your plan.
Mordred:
How 'bout you, empress lady?
You gonna side with this ass?
Semiramis:
Don't be a fool.
Semiramis:
The most generous offer I make to those who challenge me is a swift death.
Siegfried:
...Indeed.
I cannot consent to your proposal.
Siegfried:
I share Achilles's view.
I will not dishonor the life I led before.
Siegfried:
And I am certain Karna agrees with me.
Karna:
You can certainly try to prolong your own life if you wish, but I'm afraid I have no interest in that myself.
Karna:
I went to my death knowing I had done what I had to. Now, my only obligation is to lend my strength to those with goals to achieve.
Avicebron:
Likewise.
Avicebron:
I can only carry out my work when I have been summoned properly. I therefore cannot go along with your plan.
Atalante:
As for me, I refuse simply because you presume to order me about.
Atalante:
If you take issue with that,
then defeat me and prove you are right.
Astolfo:
Oh I am toootally siding with these nice people!
Yeppers!
Astolfo:
Weeell...maybe I should side with you since I was on the Black team and all...
Astolfo:
...but, naaah, can't do it!
The hero in me has gotta stop you!
Shakespeare:
Perhaps one of my many famous lines will suit here:
“Let the end try the man.”
Shakespeare:
So I am most resolutely opposed to your plan as well!
Shakespeare:
Certainly it can make a good story when a hero turns to evil, but such hackneyed plot twists are beneath me!
Fran:
Uh.
(Shaking head)
Spartacus:
?
Spartacus:
Death to the oppressor.
Jack:
Hmm... No, we don't like it.
You're a great mage.
Jack:
We hate people like you!
Oh, but not you, Mommy!
Jack:
You're a hack of a mage!
Fujimaru 1:
Sorry for being bad.
Jack:
That's why we love you!
Fujimaru 2:
Thanks, Jack!
Jack:
You're welcome!
Chiron:
...There you have it, Sir Darnic.
Chiron:
We are not pawns to be used however you like.
We are alive, with our own minds and opinions.
Chiron:
Even if we are just reproductions...
No, BECAUSE we are reproductions...
Chiron:
...we cannot abandon our pride as heroes.
Darnic:
...Oh well, I thought things might turn out this way.
Darnic:
So I suppose I will just have you keep fighting until you change your minds!
Darnic:
Pseudo-Greater Grail...connected!
Sieg:
It can't be... You're going to reproduce the Greater Grail INSIDE the Greater Grail!?
Semiramis:
You're out of your mind! That's like trying to create a parallel mirror world with brute force!
Darnic:
...And I'm quite all right with that.
Darnic:
For how can one be a mage without traversing the realms of the absurd?
Sieg:
...
...
Sieg:
That wish may be wrong, but as it is your wish,
I am sure it seems right to you.
Sieg:
But...that doesn't mean I'm going to let you have it.
Because your wish DIDN'T come true.
Sieg:
As the Greater Grail's Custodian,
I WILL defeat you!
Section 8: Yggdmillennia
Mordred:
The hell's going on here!?
They just keep coming no matter how many we kill!
Mordred:
And what the hell is this? He's weirdly hard to fight!
It's like one minute it's a Saber, then an Archer...
Chiron:
It is most likely all of them!
Chiron:
He's using data from all seven of our classes to give himself an advantage against us!
Mordred:
What!? Isn't that cheating or something?
Chiron:
It is one of the fundaments of combat!
Chiron:
In battle, you strike at your opponent's weaknesses,
and make the battle as difficult for them as possible.
Chiron:
...But, with that in mind...
Chiron:
...there is no reason we can't do the same.
Chiron:
Sir Sieg, Master, please keep the orders coming!
Chiron:
The Greater Grail is basing its pseudo-combatants on our battle data.
Chiron:
It must be choosing classes and tactics depending on the current situation.
Chiron:
Fair enough. Then let's do this:
Chiron:
Have all thirteen of us and Sir Sieg work together.
Chiron:
If Darnic's residual thoughts refuse to shut down of their own accord, we will just have to overwhelm them with combat data until they collapse in on themselves!
Karna:
Sounds fine to me.
Our job is the same either way.
Karna:
Master of Chaldea, your orders, please.
Semiramis:
Hmm. These may not be my true gardens,
but they are still mine.
Semiramis:
I suppose it would be amusing to completely obliterate them.
Shakespeare:
If I may, Empress, have some consideration for us noncombatants! That includes Master, you'll recall!
Semiramis:
No.
Avicebron:
I think you may have gotten on her bad side.
Avicebron:
...But, no matter. If that is our plan,
I'll go ahead and use the walls to make more golems.
Fujimaru 1:
Just be sure to leave the floor alone, please!
Mordred:
...?
...???
Fran:
Uh, uh.
Mordred:
...Okay, she says we just gotta pound his face in!
Atalante:
Did you really just take instructions from a Berserker?
Mordred:
Shut up, you freakin' exhibitionist!
Atalante:
Wha...!
H：Atalante:
How dare you call me an exhibitionist!?
Achilles:
(Hmm... She still went back to her old outfit, though.)
Siegfried:
The lines between good and evil are ill-defined in this.
We are not fighting as proper Servants, either.
Siegfried:
...But then again, there has never been such a thing as a perfect person.
Siegfried:
Instead of lamenting that which we lack, let us fight here and now for that which we already possess!
Sieg:
...Now I get it.
Fujimaru 1:
Get what?
Sieg:
Well, I was so caught up in my own responsibility to fix this predicament...
Sieg:
...that I forgot they have their own responsibilities as heroes.
Sieg:
Even if they are just copies, they still have pride.
Without that, a Servant is no more than a shadow.
Sieg:
Fujimaru, we need your orders now more than ever.
Sieg:
This is the final battle, the last chance we'll likely ever have to fight by each other's sides.
Sieg:
It'll be sad to go our separate ways,
but it's time to wake from this dream.
Section 9: "Returning to Tranquil Slumber"
Darnic:
No... Not yet... I can still fight...
I haven't given up yet... This isn't over...!
B：???:
Yes, it is.
Dreams end, people die, and heroes rest in peace.
Darnic:
Wha...!
B：???:
Kazikli Bey.
Darnic:
You... You were copied too!?
No... It can't be...!
Darnic:
I sealed you away!
I made sure you could never be copied!
Darnic:
You should have been no more than a puppet based on battle data!
Darnic:
How could you possibly manifest as a Servant capable of thinking for himself...?
Darnic:
It should have been impossible, Lancer!
Vlad III:
After tens of thousands of battles,
this was inevitable.
Vlad III:
Well done, all of you.
Your valiant efforts succeeded in summoning me...
Vlad III:
...a Servant capable of defeating Darnic Prestone Yggdmillennia.
Darnic:
Laaannnceeerrr...!
Vlad III:
My anger is long gone;
my modest ambitions are long since quashed.
Vlad III:
Is that not true for you as well?
The time has come to accept your fate.
Vlad III:
Indeed, you MUST accept it.
Otherwise, you will never move forward.
Vlad III:
Your thoughts and dreams can go no further.
Vlad III:
Darnic, my Master, and my sworn enemy.
Darnic:
What...?
You...you have your memories...!?
Vlad III:
Indeed. Of all fourteen Servants, I am the only one who retains memories of the Great Holy Grail War.
Vlad III:
Perhaps that is thanks to your absorbing me.
It is not, however, why I wish to defeat you.
Vlad III:
No, my wish to defeat you stems from neither a desire for revenge, nor anger, but my duty as a hero...
Vlad III:
...and the mercy I feel for you as your Servant.
Darnic:
Mercy...?
Don't give me that nonsense, Lancer!
Darnic:
You expect me to believe you no longer bear a grudge!?
Darnic:
I trampled your pride as a hero into dust!
You MUST despise me for that!
Vlad III:
...Then let me ask you this.
Vlad III:
If I strike you down now,
will you die despising me?
Darnic:
...What...?
Vlad III:
Do you truly not understand, Darnic?
You would hold no grudge.
Vlad III:
You may be angry, but that anger would not persist eternally.
Vlad III:
We both have dreams we have chosen to pursue, even as we have resigned ourselves to the fact that they will not be realized.
Vlad III:
Even though, deep down, we have given up on our dreams, we still fight to pursue them.
Vlad III:
It is an act of irreverence. We do not do so out of respect for anyone or anything else.
Vlad III:
We do so because our ambitions...our dreams...
Vlad III:
...are the one thing to which we will always be loyal.
Vlad III:
Even if others decry you as fork-tongued for your scheming, or fear me as the Impaler for the mountain of bodies I piled up...
Vlad III:
...that loyalty is the one thing we cannot change.
That is why our dreams stay with us.
Vlad III:
...I'm afraid this is likely beyond your understanding, Custodian. But perhaps, in the fullness of time...that will change.
Sieg:
...
...
Vlad III:
I understand you all too well, Darnic.
Vlad III:
I know that your hard work, your betrayals,
your plots...are nothing to be ashamed of.
Vlad III:
And that is precisely why this scheme of yours must end now.
Vlad III:
For if it does not, you will have betrayed even your own dreams.
Vlad III:
And dreams that have been compromised will never shine bright again.
Darnic:
...
...Ahh, dammit.
Darnic:
...It's no wonder I summoned you,
Lancer... Vlad III...
Darnic:
...If you find my dream beautiful...maybe...that's enough...
Darnic:
Yes... I can finally stop walking...
I'm exhausted... This is hard work for an old man...
Darnic:
I suppose, in the end...dreams that have been tainted and broken...simply can't be mended...
Chiron:
Is it...over?
Vlad III:
It is. The Great Holy Grail War has well and truly come to an end.
Vlad III:
Custodian.
Sieg:
Y-yes?
Vlad III:
I do not know you, but now that you have taken the Greater Grail, you are responsible for it.
Vlad III:
...Though I'm sure you are well aware of that.
Sieg:
Yes. I promise I'll take good care of it.
Vlad III:
Now, let me give you a word of advice.
Not as a hero, but as a human.
Vlad III:
Humans will come.
It is inevitable.
Vlad III:
And they WILL discover magic,
with or without the Greater Grail.
Vlad III:
But regardless, an excellent ending awaits you.
Take solace in that, and sleep well.
Vlad III:
Now then, I think I shall take my leave.
Farewell.
Semiramis:
Hmph. I never thought he would have the nerve to act like a king in my presence.
Semiramis:
That is why I was magnanimous enough to stay silent during his little speech. ...Besides, the gardens are about to collapse.
Semiramis:
Here, I will teleport the lot of you back to the ground.
Semiramis:
I will remain here, and spend what time I have left with my gardens.
Semiramis:
Try to stop me, and your already short life will end even more abruptly.
Mordred:
...
Semiramis:
...I heard that, you insolent fool!
Now be off with you!
Mordred:
Hey, I didn't say shit!
Fujimaru 1:
...I could've sworn you said something about “stink.”
Semiramis:
Never mind that. Go on, all of you!
Back to the ground with you!
Semiramis:
Hmph. They certainly were a noisy bunch.
Semiramis:
Ahh, I can finally relax now.
Semiramis:
...The Great Holy Grail War, huh.
Semiramis:
When I was summoned here, did I have a wish of my own? One worth creating these gardens for...?
Semiramis:
And if I did...what was it?
Was...it for someone in particular...?
Semiramis:
...Heh. I suppose none of that matters now...
Mordred:
That damn stink bug woman!
Fujimaru 1:
That's an awful thing to say!
Fujimaru 2:
I knew you were saying something like that!
Mordred:
Ah, piss off! Just seeing face of hers...she NEEDS to be insulted!
Mordred:
...Well, whatever.
At least all THAT'S over with!
Mordred:
Welp, see you around, Chaldean!
Oh, hey, am I there too?
Mordred:
If I am, make sure you ride my ass into the ground!
Mordred:
Bye for now!
Fran:
Uh!
(Salute)
Fujimaru 1:
(Salute)
Fran:
Uhn!
Fujimaru 2:
(Wave goodbye)
Fran:
Uhn♪
Fujimaru 1:
They really came in AND left like a storm...
Sieg:
That they did.
Spartacus:
The oppressor is dead.
The mage's dream has now gone.
Spartacus:
My work here is done.
Spartacus:
Now, I must be off! There are oppressors in other lands that must be defeated!
Spartacus:
...Farewell!
Atalante:
Well, that certainly...happened.
Atalante:
Much has transpired,
but I believe I have done all I could.
Atalante:
Young speedster.
You...
Atalante:
On second thought, you can wait.
I will go on ahead.
Achilles:
Huh? You're leaving already!?
Atalante:
Goodbyes are best kept brief,
and reunions celebrated heartily.
Atalante:
See you around.
Shakespeare:
Hmm.
Shakespeare:
...Not nearly tragic enough to suit me.
Sieg:
Isn't that a good thing?
Shakespeare:
Don't be silly! A great tragedy is just the thing to spice up a happy ending!
Shakespeare:
...Still, that Darnic fellow did bow out rather beautifully, so I suppose that must satisfy me.
Shakespeare:
Even in death, he was a man so driven to make his dream come true that he went to the trouble of recreating us.
Shakespeare:
Being as I rather walked the straight and narrow in my lifetime, I cannot but feel the touch of the green-eyed monster myself...
Avicebron:
Straight and narrow, huh?
Fujimaru 1:
Good one, Shakespeare!
Shakespeare:
That was no joke!
Fujimaru 2:
“Straight and narrow.” (Stifle laughter)
Shakespeare:
Good [♂ sir /♀ madam], I do believe you have offended me...
Avicebron:
...At any rate, this is goodbye.
Avicebron:
Hmm. Master of Chaldea,
I don't know about the Custodian...
Avicebron:
...but I have a feeling you and I will meet again someday.
In fact, perhaps we already have.
Avicebron:
...Hm. What an odd thing for me to say...
Shakespeare:
Very well then, everyone!
I bid you all farewell!
Shakespeare:
...
...
Shakespeare:
Since brevity is the soul of wit, and tediousness the limbs and outward flourishes, I shall be brief!
Shakespeare:
I believe that will suffice to fill my quota for quotations! Farewell!
Avicebron:
Good grief...
Karna:
All right, I'd better be on my way too.
I have nothing else to say.
Fujimaru 1:
Because we're such good friends now?
Fujimaru 2:
Because saying goodbye would just make you sad?
Karna:
...Am I that easy to read...?
Jack:
Ohhh... This means we have to say goodbye,
doesn't it, Mommy?
Sieg:
I'm sorry...
I'm sure you'll miss [♂ him /♀ her].
Jack:
No we won't.
Jack:
We already have a connection with Mommy.
Jack:
Even if WE aren't in Chaldea...we're sure Mommy will keep our connection alive with the other us.
Jack:
So it will be fine. Right, Mr. Custodian?
Sieg:
...I see.
Sieg:
...Thank you, Jack. You were a big help.
Jack:
Oh! You're welcome!
We will let you off the hook for killing us, then!
Sieg:
!
Jack:
Just kidding.
Jack:
We don't know what happened back then,
and we don't remember it either.
Jack:
So we have nothing to forgive or not forgive you for.
Jack:
Ever since we were born, we just like to play!
Jack:
Well, bye-bye, Mr. Custodian!
Maybe we'll see you again sometime?
Sieg:
An endlessly wandering Assassin,
all because they don't remember her, huh...
Astolfo:
Hey! Hey! Custodian!
Sieg:
...Y-yes?
Astolfo:
Were you avoiding me?
Sieg:
No, of course–okay, maybe I was.
Astolfo:
I thought so.
But not 'cause you don't like me, right?
Sieg:
Why would I dislike you?
Astolfo:
HEY! N-no answering questions with questions!
Astolfo:
Now I get it. You were just shy!
Sieg:
...Yes, I suppose I was.
Sieg:
It's sort of awkward to meet someone again after you've already said goodbye, even if they don't remember having done so.
Astolfo:
...Gotcha.
Astolfo:
But hey! The me you knew was still meee, right?
Sieg:
Of course.
Sieg:
You helped me out so many times.
I was proud to have you as my Servant.
Astolfo:
...Thanks.
Astolfo:
Well, see you again sometime!
Siegfried:
All right, I suppose I'd better be on my way as well.
Siegfried:
Sir Custodian...had you been the evil dragon I faced, perhaps we could have resolved our differences peacefully.
Siegfried:
That way, I would never have had to bathe in the blood of a dragon.
Fujimaru 1:
But–
Siegfried:
I know.
Siegfried:
If I hadn't been immortal, I might have died in a ditch somewhere, without anyone ever knowing my name.
Sieg:
No, I don't think so...
Sieg:
Even if you never bathed in dragon's blood,
or came into possession of Balmung...
Sieg:
...I'm certain you would still have been a hero.
Siegfried:
...Thank you, Custodian.
Siegfried:
Thank you for thinking so well of me,
and for fighting alongside me.
Achilles:
Welp, guess we'd better hit the road too, Teacher.
Chiron:
Indeed. For a while, I was rather uncertain how this would all turn out...
Chiron:
...but it ended up being much more fun than I anticipated.
Chiron:
This battle lasted but a few days, and is unlikely to become part of history in any real sense.
Chiron:
So I hope that, if nothing else, it will remain in your memories, [♂ Sir /♀ Lady] Fujimaru.
Fujimaru 1:
Of course. I'll never forget it.
Fujimaru 2:
It will. And I'll remember all of you, too. I promise.
Chiron:
We have a connection now.
Chiron:
Once I have been summoned, I will spend every free moment I have holding classes on–
Chiron:
Hm? You already have a great many teachers?
Chiron:
Hmm, interesting. In that case, I would love to pit our different teaching styles against one another!
Achilles:
...So, we really won this, huh?
Achilles:
Back when I was alive, even though my life was one battle after another...or maybe even because of it...
Achilles:
...I couldn't ever really relax after winning,
'cause I knew the next battle was never far off.
Achilles:
But now...I guess I don't have to worry about that anymore.
Achilles:
...That's actually kinda nice, in its own way.
Fujimaru 1:
It is?
Achilles:
Yeah. I'm...satisfied.
Achilles:
I don't have any grudges, and no civilians around means there were no massacres or other atrocities.
Achilles:
Oh, and it's nice that Hektor's not here either.
Fujimaru 1:
So you really do hate him?
Achilles:
Nah, not...exactly.
Achilles:
If you ever end up summoning me,
I'll figure out a way to get along with him.
Achilles:
...Yeah, it'll work out.
Just gotta think positive.
Fujimaru 2:
I take it you don't get along?
Achilles:
Hmm... Well, let's just say we went through a lot together, and most of it was less than friendly.
Achilles:
That said, I'm a Servant now. I'm sure if I got summoned,
I'd forget any problems I had with him.
Achilles:
...But that's not what I'm really trying to say.
Achilles:
What I really want to say is that I bet I could have a lot of fun fighting alongside you guys again.
Achilles:
So if you ever find yourself in a tight spot in Greece, just gimme a call.
Achilles:
I'll come running, no matter when or where you are.
Promise.
Achilles:
Thanks for everything.
...This was a really good battle.
Sieg:
Now that the Greater Grail is stable again,
this world is about to disappear.
Sieg:
Give me your hand.
It's time we returned to the real world.
Evil Dragon:
Here we are. Now, at last...I can wait here, secure in the knowledge that the Greater Grail will be safe.
Fujimaru 1:
You know, I really have to ask...
Fujimaru 2:
Who are you waiting for, anyway?
Evil Dragon:
...I'm afraid I can't tell you that.
It's a secret.
Fujimaru 1:
Gotcha.
Evil Dragon:
I know I shouldn't be keeping anything from you, but...
Fujimaru 1:
It's fine. I get it.
Evil Dragon:
Are you sure?
Fujimaru 1:
Some things aren't for anyone else to know. Not even friends.
Evil Dragon:
...
...
Evil Dragon:
I'm sorry, could you repeat that?
Fujimaru 2:
Yes, but in exchange, I want you to be my friend.
Evil Dragon:
...Me... Your friend?
Evil Dragon:
...I see.
Evil Dragon:
All this time, I thought that you and I...
Evil Dragon:
...were more like an oppressor and his victim than anything else.
Fujimaru 1:
What!? No! Not even close!
Evil Dragon:
So, you would call me your friend?
Evil Dragon:
...Thank you. I will always cherish this memory.
But, there's something else I need to say.
Evil Dragon:
There is nothing I can do for you,
nothing I can give you after all you did for me.
Evil Dragon:
All I could do was stand around...even with all those heroes willing to risk their lives helping.
Evil Dragon:
I can't tell you how sorry I am about that.
Fujimaru 1:
It's fine. Really.
Evil Dragon:
...That only makes me feel worse.
Fujimaru 2:
Don't worry. This was fun.
Evil Dragon:
Fun, huh?
Evil Dragon:
You're a very positive person,
aren't you, Fujimaru? I'm afraid I...
Evil Dragon:
...Hm?
You know, now that I think of it, I had fun too.
Evil Dragon:
Even though I genuinely feared for my life back when we were fighting... Strange.
Evil Dragon:
...Anyway, I'm sure you still have a long, difficult road ahead.
Evil Dragon:
It may not be much–hell, it may not even be welcome–but, I'd like to help you on it, if I can.
Evil Dragon:
So...since I am the Greater Grail's Custodian,
I'm going to repurpose the terminal I made earlier.
Fujimaru 1:
So, does that mean...?
Fujimaru 2:
Sieg?
Sieg:
I can still function as a terminal, but since my connection to my true body will be cut off...
Sieg:
...I'll only be able to use my dragon power for a fraction of an instant.
Sieg:
...But, if that's okay with you...I'd still like to do whatever I can to help you out.
Sieg:
It's the least I can do for someone who considers me a friend.
Evil Dragon:
There. Now I really can rest easy.
Fujimaru 1:
So you're going to stay here until this person shows up?
Evil Dragon:
Yes. I don't mind waiting.
Evil Dragon:
Not even if it takes them a hundred,
or a thousand, or ten thousand years.
Evil Dragon:
You see, I know for certain that they will get here eventually.
Evil Dragon:
I have all the faith in the world in them.
Evil Dragon:
Farewell...my friend. And thank you.
Evil Dragon:
We may not have spent much time together, but I'll cherish it forever. It will always be a precious memory to me.
Fujimaru 1:
Goodbye, Sieg.
Evil Dragon:
Goodbye, Fujimaru.
Take care.
Evil Dragon:
I hope my terminal will be of at least some use to you.
Fujimaru 2:
...Take care of yourself.
Evil Dragon:
You too, Fujimaru.
Evil Dragon:
Goodbye, my friend.
My new Master.
Narration:
I'm not worried about all this waiting.
If anything, my conviction is now certainty.
Narration:
...It was a fleeting encounter,
and a fleeting farewell.
Narration:
But it doesn't bother me.
Narration:
The sorrow of parting may make my heart ache,
but even that is drowned out by a great swell of joy.
Narration:
Those few short days I spent with [♂ him /♀ her] gave me boundless hope for mankind.
Narration:
It was a short battle.
A small fight to the death.
Narration:
Still, I'm sure that man had no choice but to fight,
no matter how much pain it brought him.
Narration:
I can't say that was beautiful,
but I can't say it was ugly, either.
Narration:
...I can no longer track my terminal.
Narration:
Soon, he will be summoned as a Servant,
and aid Fujimaru in [♂ his /♀ her] battles.
Narration:
From now on, he will be making his own memories.
Narration:
In time, Sieg will become a Servant totally separate from me, and forge his own path.
Narration:
I only hope he is at least some small help to Fujimaru in the struggles ahead.
Narration:
For my part, I think I'll go back to sleep.
...I wonder when I'll wake?
Narration:
Whenever it is, I don't mind.
This tiny, sealed-off world will not change any longer.
Narration:
But if something were somehow to change,
I am sure it would be for the better.
Narration:
For now, I sleep, forever and ever...waiting for the future that I know will one day come.