Trial Quest - Scatatch

Master of the Ghost Cave

Mash: ...Sen...pai?

Mash: This... Looks like Fuyuki city... But I don't remember Rayshifting...

Mash: I'm having trouble remembering much of anything. I took some medicine and laid down...

Mash: But now I'm in this form... I'm armed as a Demi-Servant.

Fou: Fou, fofooou!

Mash: Fou!? When did you get into the carrying space in my shield?

Fou: Fou, kyaau?

Mash: ...I can't contact Chaldea's control room. So the doctor can't analyze our situation or bring us back.

Mash: One possibility is... That this is a type of shared memory between the Servant and the Master... A type of dream.


Fujimaru 1: ...Those flames are awfully hot for a dream.

Mash: Yes, Senpai. I can feel the heat as if it's real.

Mash: This is the same Fuyuki city we traveled to with the director. But whether it's the same era, or if we're dreaming...


Fujimaru 2: There's so much fire but I don't feel the heat.

Mash: ...? You don't feel the heat? Maybe it's because I'm a Demi-Servant...

Mash: I may be different than you. ...That makes me a little sad.


???: —I see. So this is how you "perceive" this place.

???: I know your names already. Fujimaru, and the girl is Mash Kyrielight.

???: You are inside a dream, sharing a memory of an intense experience you both had.

???: Perhaps I should say this is how the "system" works. Still, this is quite an interesting phenomenon.

Mash: ...Who are you?

Mash: Your magical energy... It does feel like a Servant's, but...

Mash: ...Something seems very different somehow...

Mash: You're not one of the Servants we saw in Fuyuki... Not only that, but I don't think

Mash: we've ever met you before. I don't...think so, anyway. My memory's hazy...


Fujimaru 1: I don't remember you.

???: Hmm. Of course not.

???: It's been 2,000 years since I've shown myself to anyone. We couldn't have met.

???: ...If you said you had seen me, then we'd have a bit of a problem.

???: You're not an escapee from my realm, are you? You're not a ghost either, correct?

Mash: ...We're not ghost-type monsters, no. But, you said 2,000 years, right?

Mash: That would be around the birth of Christ... Do you mean that's when you were alive?

???: ...Hmm. So drawing a clear line to explain my existence, huh?


Fujimaru 2: I've seen that spear...

???: Hmm, I feel a passionate gaze upon me.

???: Oh, it's not me, but my spear you're looking at? It's good that you can assess weapons at your age.

???: But this isn't what you are expecting. It's not a Divine Construct, forged by The Sea God, Manannan.

???: Sadly, it's just a spear. A stick, made from the skeleton of a sea creature.

???: ...Or perhaps you were pretending to look at the spear, but were actually looking at me?

???: Heheh. You've never met an Ulster woman, have you?

Mash: Senpai, I know how you feel, but please restrain yourself for now.

Mash: It's true that her proportions are... just about perfect, but...

Fou: Foou!


???: Hmm. How should I put this? Thinking back, I haven't given many people my name.

???: The warriors knew my name when they visited my home. The beasts and fallen gods challenged me out of fear.

???: They all feared me because they knew who I was.

???: It's been a long time since you—no, people like you have asked me what my name is without prejudice.

???: And so I have no choice but to answer honestly.

???: I am a being which exists outside the world.

???: Something which was to exist forever, without getting old or dying.

???: My name is Scáthach, the ruler of Dún Scáith, the Land of Shadows. Although it does make me a little uncomfortable announcing it like that.

Mash: !!!

Fou: Kya—u!?

Mash: Scáthach! The god-killing superhuman who's said to practically be a divinity herself?


Fujimaru 1: Is she amazing?


Fujimaru 2: I see. Scáthach, huh...


Mash: Yes, Senpai! She's mentioned in the Celtic myths of the first century, particularly the Ulster Cycle!

Mash: An invincible warrior, the ruler of a supernatural realm similar to the underworld. She even trained the great hero Cú Chulainn!

Mash: And she's also a "great magus," one of the best ever... But she shouldn't "exist in the Throne of Heroes," so why!?


Fujimaru 1: Doesn't exist in the Throne of Heroes?


Fujimaru 2: You mean she can't be a Servant?


Scáthach: Oh, so the girl knew? You're correct, points for you. Hmm...

Scáthach: You did talk a little too fast, three stars!

Mash: Huh? Oh, right. Thank you very much.

Scáthach: It's all right. In your case, it's more effective to speak quietly. Keep it all within you, and be like a silent burning flame.

Scáthach: ...Sorry, that's an old habit of mine. We don't have time for long chats.

Scáthach: As Mash said, I was never meant to be here. Since I retired from the battlefields.

Scáthach: I won't get into too much of why I've been summoned, but–

Scáthach: I've shown myself for a good reason. To solve the problem occurring within this dream.

Scáthach: Master of Chaldea and you, new Servant, calm yourselves and open your eyes.

Scáthach: Witness what was brought forth by all the abnormality. Something is out of the ordinary here.

???: AAAAAA...

???: AAAAAAAA!

Mash: I saw them as soon as I sensed their magical energy! Enemy approaching, Senpai!


Fujimaru 1: If they're attacking we have to fight them.


Fujimaru 2: Stay calm and be careful.


Mash: Right! Beginning combat!

Scáthach: Now this is worth traveling through the eras. An impressive response, and pleasantly high morale.

Scáthach: Hmm... I had decided myself to an easy retirement, but seeing you has made me change my mind.

Scáthach: Here we go...

Mash: Wah!? Scáthach!?

Scáthach: Yes, I'll be playing too, Mash. Fujimaru! Save me a seat!

Scáthach: It's time for battle! First, fight. Fight before you think. Worrying comes after, as a privilege of the living.

Scáthach: So fight, fight, fight, and win! That's the Celtic way!


Fujimaru 1: Celts are crazy...

Mash: R-Right... It's like violence is a necessity for them...


Fujimaru 2: YEAH!

Mash: Senpai!?


--BATTLE--

Scáthach: Now that was an easy fight, I couldn't even remember what they looked like. I guess they weren't that tough, huh?

Scáthach: Now, tell me, Fujimaru. What did those enemies look like to you?

Mash: We've fought them several times before... Did they look different to you, Scáthach?

Scáthach: They looked like a smoky haze. To me, they seemed to barely exist.

Scáthach: And that's because, not once have I perceived the idea of death.

Fou: Fo-fou, fou?

Mash: Death?

Scáthach: Indeed. What you're seeing isn't memories of your past...

Scáthach: ...Nor some kind of symbolism from your dreams.

Scáthach: Those are remnants left behind of a miserable death. They should not exist within you at all.

Scáthach: To be more precise, they are the "remnants left behind even by death."

Scáthach: These flames you see. The ones you fought.

Scáthach: They are the remnants left behind by the death you witnessed as you fought to protect humanity.

Scáthach: There were many others around. Ten thousand or so moving corpses and skeletons.

Scáthach: But I took care of all of them. They weren't worth teaching anything. They were far too weak.

Mash: T-Ten thousand?

Scáthach: Hahaha, I'm pleased that you're surprised, but you could've just laughed it off, Mash.

Scáthach: To a Celtic warrior, numbers mean nothing.

Scáthach: We're all idiots who fight until we're dead, or there's no one left to fight!


Fujimaru 1: ...You mean death is attacking us?

Scáthach: No, no, that's not it. That's not it at all.


Fujimaru 2: I don't understand.

Scáthach: That's fine. That's how you should be. You probably haven't grasp the concept of death yet.


Scáthach: "This place" is overflowing with remnants "abandoned" by death.

Mash: This is a dream I'm sharing with Senpai, right? So why would it be filled with something like that?

Mash: I don't think the Heroic Spirit I got my power from had the attribute to interfere with death...

Scáthach: I'm sure. A Heroic Spirit who brings death wouldn't suit you at all. This phenomenon is taking place inside you...

Scáthach: ...But the causal factor is outside. It's a touch unfair, but, it can't be helped.

Scáthach: That's what it means for all of human history to be incinerated.

Scáthach: A normal extinction would cause death to overflow. Purgatory, underworld, anywhere souls can go would be overflowing.

Scáthach: But this is different. Incineration of Humanity is a "great deed" that doesn't just burn away life, but death itself.

Fou: Fou... Fooooouuu...

Mash: A great deed...that burns away death?

Scáthach: Yes. Miracles that humans use are things like magecraft, rituals, sacraments, and curses.

Scáthach: And then there are the "Authorities" the gods are said to possess. But the Incineration of Humanity doesn't belong to any of those.

Scáthach: Thus, it is a great deed. A human "feat" which surpasses even the "gods."

Scáthach: ...Though not even I am certain what that truly is.

Scáthach: And so what you're seeing here are the remnants abandoned by death, the direct result after many eras being incinerated.

Scáthach: Then, some of them leaked into this place.

Mash: You don't... You don't mean inside Chaldea?

Scáthach: That's correct, in a sense, but also not. Those remnants exist even closer than you imagined.

Mash: What do you mean?

Scáthach: Here. Put your hands up here.

Mash: ...My chest?

Scáthach: Indeed. But not those marshmallows. It's the warm "heart" that's pulsing inside of you with life.

Mash: !!!

Mash: D-Do you mean... Those remnants have already been corrupting us!?

Mash: That's... What you mean, right? That's why I'm suddenly with Senpai in these flames...


Fujimaru 1: It's okay. I don't think you have to worry.


Fujimaru 2: It'll be fine. Let's go back to Chaldea together.


Mash: ...Yes, Senpai. You're right.

Scáthach: Hehe. I thought you'd get scared, but you're holding on to hope. I can't believe how pure you are, but those purest are often the strongest.

Scáthach: Fujimaru's optimism and Mash's pessimism. I find both equally worthy.

Scáthach: Even after two thousand years, you humans haven't changed a bit. So fragile and ephemeral, but noble and beautiful.

Scáthach: —It's time to go. Follow me.

Mash: R-Right. ...No, wait. Where are we going?

Scáthach: To destroy all the remnants that threatens to overwhelm you.

Scáthach: As my Land of Shadows no longer exists, normally I wouldn't waste time on ghosts abandoned even by the wheel of reincarnation.

Scáthach: But I do not think I can just let these things overflow.

Scáthach: ...I know how frustrating it is to want to die, and not be able to.

Scáthach: If the gods will not save them, I will. If they want a fight, I have no reason to refuse.


Fujimaru 1: So this is the Celtic way!

Mash: Y-Yes, Senpai... This violent but dependable power is the Celtic way...


Fujimaru 2: YEAH!

Mash: Senpai! Is the Celtic way getting to you?


Spiral Rainbow

Scáthach: ...That sure is an awful lot of fire, huh?

Scáthach: I already know your names, Fujimaru, Mash. However...

Scáthach: ...That doesn't mean I know everything about you. Nor the reason this city is on flames.

Scáthach: What happened here? This is a place where you once walked, yes?

Mash: Yes. Fuyuki City, in the far east. That first place we shifted to where a Holy Grail War was taking place.

Mash: The year was AD 2004. 13 years ago. It's very close to the present, but it's still part of the past.

Mash: This is where we...


Fujimaru 1: Got caught up in a Holy Grail War that shouldn't exist.

Mash: Yes, Senpai. We fought many Heroic Spirit for the fragment of the Grail.


Fujimaru 2: Got saved by that Caster guy.

Mash: ...That's right, Senpai. Without him, we would've died.


Fou: Fou, kyau!

Mash: That's right, Fou. He's the one who taught me how to pseudo-deploy the Noble Phantasm that was too much for me.

Mash: Caster Cú Chulainn. I couldn't possibly thank him enough.

Scáthach: ...Oh?

Scáthach: Oh. I see, I see. "That's why" it's me, huh? You knew him.

Scáthach: Mash, Fujimaru. I'm sorry, can I ask a question?

Scáthach: Was he doing well "at this place?"

Mash: Oh... Yes! He was doing very well. That's right! You're...

Mash: Scáthach, a warrior, a mentor to many heroes. You're the woman who trained Cú Chulainn!

Mash: I-I'm sorry. I knew that in my head, but it's so hard for me to remember that the Caster who saved us...

Mash: ...is the same Cú Chulainn who's part of the Ulster Cycle, and s-so...


Fujimaru 1: Mash, calm down!

Mash: R-R-R-R-Right, Senpai!

Fou: Foufou.


Fujimaru 2: YEAH!

Mash: YEAH! ...Huh?


Mash: I-I'm sorry. I should've realized sooner... He saved our lives.

Mash: I don't know what to say... Um... Y-Your student really helped us out.

Mash: We're alive today thanks to the spell he wielded when he materialized as a Druid.

Scáthach: I see. No, there's no need to thank me.

Scáthach: But nonetheless, as someone deeply related to him, I shall remember that. And someday, I will tell him.

Scáthach: If I ever get the chance, that is. For now, you must first survive this place.

Scáthach: Otherwise, I'll have to tell him that I saw the children he saved...

Scáthach: ...as they died. Now, survive! You must be strong!

???: GAAAAAA!

Mash: That roar!?


Fujimaru 1: Sounds pretty big.


Fujimaru 2: A... Dragon?


Scáthach: That is another remnant of death you witnessed... Or perhaps, will witness in the future.

Scáthach: Time means very little in this place. Just like the Throne of Heroes.

Scáthach: Either way, it's something that's been left behind. Now, overcome this trial, young ones!

Fou: Fou, foou! Kyau!

Mash: R-Right... You're right, Fou. I think that might be...

Mash: That might be a little too big! S-Senpai!


Fujimaru 1: Scáthach!


Fujimaru 2: Can you do something about that?


Scáthach: ...I guess it would be cruel to make you do everything on your own. Come forth from my "Gate," ye Spiral Rainbow.

Scáthach: With the divine lightning in your hand, come forth, come forth and fight! Oh Guardian of Ulster.


Fujimaru 1: My body feels numb.


Fujimaru 2: My head feels numb.


Mash: S-Senpai's magical circuits are being activated in a strange way! Scáthach, what are you doing?

Scáthach: Hmm... So that's how young kids are inside these days... Mages' bodies certainly have changed...

Scáthach: This innocent response is truly— Oh, no. Never mind. It's a temporary contract.

Scáthach: I'll lend you a new power. Come forth, come forth and fight, Spiral Rainbow Sword!

Fergus: Hahahaha! Finally it's time, huh? I'm so glad it happened before I got bored and went to sleep!

Fergus: The young leader of the Ulster Red Branch Knights! Fergus mac Róich, at your service!

Fergus: I've been waiting for this for a while now, Ms. Scáthach! Hahahahahaha! Damn, it sure is hot in here!

Scáthach: ...Stop calling me that. When you say it, it makes me feel like a real elder.

Fergus: Oh, yes. Right, right. Sorry. You're always young, Lady Scáthach.

Fergus: Your heart is young, as are your skills! As sharp as when you were in your teens! But that's a different matter!

Fergus: I can't call the mentor I respect a little girl! That's not the Red Branch way! Sorry, Ms. Scáthach!

Mash: A very boisterous looking man has appeared! Senpai, the Celtic-ness of this place is going up quickly!


Fujimaru 1: You're... Uncle Fergus!


Fujimaru 2: YEAH!


Fergus: Indeed! Heh, we've got some spirited new kids, huh?

Fergus: I guess you're Ms. Scáthach's latest students. Let's see. A pretty looking girl and a [♂ boy /♀ girl]... She put her hands on you yet?

Scáthach: I don't go after everything that moves, like you. I invite only the finest warriors to my bedchamber.

Scáthach: They are the source of this dream. And hopefully, the ones who can someday lead us.

Fergus: I see! Oh dear, I'm sorry. Hahaha! Then let's start with a drink! Have a drink with me!

Fergus: Or let's do something else! If you need a drinking buddy though, I'm your guy!

Mash: Oh, uh. Huh! N-no, I'm sorry, I—

Mash: Huh? Senpai too?


Fujimaru 1: So that's it, huh?


Fujimaru 2:


???: GAAAA!

Fergus: Hey, it was hot a moment ago, but now it's even hotter! Also I see something big, and worth punching! Even better!

Fergus: So that's what I'm here for, eh? You need the greatest swordsman the Ulster has!

Fergus: Time for me to show off my blade! Ms. Scáthach, let me handle this!


Fujimaru 1: Sword... What sword?

Fergus: Hahaha! What, you don't know my Noble Phantasm?


Fujimaru 2: That drill can't be... It can't be...

Fergus: Hahaha! So you know my Noble Phantasm, huh?


Fergus: Then behold my Rainbow Sword! Caladbolg, the sword that's both rainbows and lightning!

Fergus: If Cú Chulainn of the Red Branch Knights stabs his foes, then I, Fergus, tear them to shreds!

Mash: The mystic sword Caladbolg! A legendary sword, said to be the model of many other mystic and holy swords!

Fergus: Heaven and Earth, spin, spin, spin! Watch in awe as I wield my immense strength!

--BATTLE--

Fergus: Hmm... It looked like a famous dragon, but it didn't feel that strong.

Fergus: Next time, I hope to fight one with the proper mind, body and skill!

Scáthach: That's right, but do not let your guard down. Always face an enemy, even a weak one, with your full strength.

Fergus: Hmm... Of course, I did not hold back. But are you telling me to fight until my flesh tears and bone breaks?

Fergus: Hahaha! As expected of Ms. Scáthach! Just how strict can you get?

Mash: One of the heroes depicted in the Ulster Cycle, a great warrior of the Red Branch Knights, Fergus mac Róich...

Mash: Um, Fergus. You're another one of Cú Chulainn's teachers, right?

Fou: Foufou.

Fergus: Hmm? You mean Sétanta? I did teach him to use a sword, but...

Fergus: Unfortunately, he wasn't much of a swordsman. He quickly switched to the spear.

Fergus: I trained with him and also looked after him. You can say he's almost like my own child.

Fergus: So, do you know him?

Scáthach: Right, it seems they fought together. In this ruined city ravaged by flames called Fuyuki.

Fergus: Sounds like the Norse Ragnarok. That must be so much fun. I'm jealous.

Fergus: One of his natural talents is having the luck to be blessed with the most terrifying battles.

Fergus: If I was there, I could've challenged him to see who was the better warrior. What a shame.


Fujimaru 1: He was a druid.


Fujimaru 2: He was an amazing mage.


Scáthach: Oh right, now I remember. They say he was dressed as a druid.

Fergus: ...WHAT!? Was he being bullied?

Scáthach: Hahaha! Yes, that's the reaction I was looking for. Nothing really gets funnier than this.

Fou: Fou, foufoou, kyuu?

Mash: Um, thank you, Fergus. You helped us even though we summoned you without warning...

Fergus: Don't worry about it. This was just a temporary contract. Plus, I couldn't refuse Ms. Scáthach's summon.

Fergus: By the way, what kind of sorcery did you use, Ms. Scáthach? How was I summoned during my mealtime?


Fujimaru 1: It is strange, yeah.


Fujimaru 2: I don't think a Holy Grail or its fragment is here, right?


Scáthach: You're right, a Holy Grail is not present. I tampered around with my Primordial Runes.

Scáthach: I used myself as a catalyst, and stocked Heroic Spirits that I have relations to in this place.

Mash: Primordial... Runes?

Fou: Foou! Kyaau!

Scáthach: Yes. A true "Primordial Rune." A type of Magical Crest lost in your modern era.

Scáthach: Modern mages have no way of knowing this, but the runes carved by the Great God of the Norse still exist in this world.

Scáthach: The old runes made after that, and their modern recreations are not even close in comparison.

Fergus: I see, but I don't get it at all. Ms. Scáthach sure knows a lot! I wish one of us in Red Branch has even a fraction of that intellect.


Fujimaru 1: Ancient magecraft can do that?

Mash: It's more than ancient, you can say it's from the Age of Gods.

Mash: That's amazing... Actually, it's really, really, amazing!


Fujimaru 2: I guess that's Scáthach for you.

Mash: Yeah... She's using a rune from the Age of Gods, made by an actual god!

Mash: It's unimaginable to us. If the Doctor was here he'd be going crazy.


Mash: But this explains something I'd been wondering about, Scáthach.

Scáthach: Hmm. And what's that?

Mash: I finally understand why Cú Chulainn was using runes. He learned how to use them from you.

Mash: A Primordial Rune. An ultimate spell brought forth by the Great God of the Norse.

Scáthach: Oh, I know that look on your face, Mash Kyrielight. You were wondering why he didn't use Ulster spells, right?

Scáthach: Ogham letters don't work well. Runes take effect as soon as they're drawn, which makes them better for a warrior. That's all.

Mash: I-I see... I understand that the letters of the Celtic God Ogham...

Mash: ...are hard to use unless you're a true druid. Your power isn't affected by its origin, is it?

Scáthach: It's a matter of effectiveness. The Great God of the Norse is very kind to warriors.

Scáthach: Now, on to the next location. Are you ready to face the next remnant?


Fujimaru 1: I am ready anytime.

Mash: Yes, Senpai. I don't know how this happened, but I think I have an idea what we should do.


Fujimaru 2: YEAH!

Mash: ...Senpai, that was a very powerful response.

Mash: Are you trying to be a Celt? Are you?


Fou: Fou, foufoou! Kyaau!

Coming from Ashes

Fergus: Sigh... Talk about a disappointment.

Fergus: If this isn't a letdown, then what is? Yes, this is the prime place for a battle, yet still!

Fergus: I'd also love to go find a nice lady, but with things in this state there aren't any around! No men, either.

Scáthach: Hah, lust is what makes a hero but you, you are on a completely different level.

Scáthach: Those bestial urges of yours might be the source of the power that makes you a hero.

Scáthach: Mash, did you know? This guy...

Mash: H-Huh? What? Why are you involving me in this conversation, Scáthach?

Scáthach: His lust is so strong that no human woman can be his wife.

Scáthach: They all gave up after a few days, and in the end he married a forest goddess.

Scáthach: That's right, a Divine Spirit. Gods' appearances were rare to begin with in the Ulster Cycle...

Scáthach: ...and one of those very rare appearances was made by his wife. He was too much to handle a goddess had to show up.

Mash: Y-Yeah... Um...

Mash: I don't...know...what to say... Um... S-Senpai...


Fujimaru 1: That's amazing, Fergus.

Fergus: Hahaha! You've got that right, if I do say so myself!


Fujimaru 2: I don't know what to do either!

Fou: Foufou. Fou.


Fergus: Whew... At this point I'll just have to risk my life and ask Ms. Scáthach.

Mash: Huh?

Fergus: To tell you the truth, Mash, Fujimaru, I thought about asking you two...

Fergus: ...but you're being guided by the Ms. Scáthach right now. You're basically kids, in a sense.

Fergus: I can't be going after kids. Which means, well, I've got just one option. No, it's not one I was avoiding.

Fergus: As an Ulster man, it's my destiny to someday make the Lady of Shadows my own...

Scáthach: I'm ready whenever.

Fergus: Oooh! How lucky am I!?

Fou: Foufoufou!

Scáthach: If you want to receive a blow from my spear that can kill a god, then feel free. Come closer. Don't worry, I will treat you well.

Fergus: Oh... Um... So... Well...

Fergus: I-I guess there's no hurry on that one. First, we've gotta get these kids to safety!

Fergus: And when that's done! I'll take you up on your offer!

Fergus: First, we fight! If I win, of course, you keep your promise. But if I lose, we'll talk then!


Fujimaru 1: You're so bold, Fergus!


Fujimaru 2: YEAH!


Mash: R-Right, Senpai. I think he's 100% serious. I don't know whether to be amazed or frightened...

Scáthach: Hehe. Dauntlessness, desire, vigor and lack of avarice. A hero must have all these things.

Scáthach: They are what makes a hero an object of admiration. They are a symbol of glory and victory.

Mash: That's what makes a hero?

Scáthach: Mash Kyrielight, don't look so confused. There's no need to force yourselves to mimic him.

Scáthach: It is a virtue to reflect on oneself in the presence of the strong. There, there.

Mash: Oh... You're patting my head... R-Right...

Scáthach: Yes. Now it's your turn, Fujimaru.


Fujimaru 1: (Get your head patted.)

Scáthach: ...Yes, good child. There, there.


Fujimaru 2: (Dodge her head pats.)

Scáthach: ...What? Why are you so embarrassed?


Scáthach: Men can only become what they become. You cannot be anyone but yourself. Ever.

Scáthach: ...Now, that's enough talking.

???: [[File:berserkervoice1.png50px]]!! [[File:berserkervoice1.png50px]]!!

Mash: T-This is an incredible amount of magical energy! It's absorbing all the mana in the surrounding area automatically?

Mash: It's clearly viewing us as enemies! It's looking at us...

???: [[File:berserkervoice1.png50px]]!! [[File:berserkervoice1.png50px]]!!

Mash: This... This can't be...


Fujimaru 1: Calm down, Mash.


Fujimaru 2: It's not that different from the others.


Mash: ...Right, Senpai. I was panicking for a second. Now I'm okay. I can fight!

Scáthach: Oh, I see. So that's your response? Do you fear it so much, Mash?

Mash: ...Yes. It scares me a lot.

Mash: I'm sure I'm scared of any fighting... But I'll fight anyway. Because I need to.

Scáthach: Humph. Even if someday, the fight may take your life?

Mash: Of course. My fear and my life are two different things.

Mash: And... I know something even scarier.

Mash: I already know how sad it is to do nothing, —the desolation of leaving nothing behind.

Scáthach: ...I see. So you've already reached the deepest truth of life.

Scáthach: Then I've nothing more to say.

Scáthach: If you die here, you'll be ripped apart from the inside, and Chaldea will be filled with the remnants of death.

Scáthach: Humanity, civilization, everything you've done, everything that exists will lose their last hope forever.


Fujimaru 1: I know.


Fujimaru 2: I figured that was the case.


Mash: Right, Senpai. I feel the same way!

Fou: Fou, faau! Kyau!

Fergus: Excellent! Glad to see you're ready to fight! Let's tear this thing apart then!

--BATTLE--

Mash: We defeated it! Good work, Senpai.

Fou: Fou, fou! Kyau, kyauu!

Fergus: It wasn't a dragon, or a boar, or a giant snake... Humph. I've never seen a monster pillar like that.

Scáthach: Hmm...

Scáthach: It was beautiful in its own otherworldly way. It would serve as a support pillar for my castle in the Land of Shadows.

Scáthach: But it's not something that should be praised too much. Besides, that's a really twisted way of naming something.

Mash: Scáthach, perhaps you already knew what that thing really was?

Scáthach: Once you become part of the shadow and abyss you can see the future to a certain degree, But no, I didn't know about it beforehand...

Scáthach: I simply saw a fragment of the future related to it. The Incineration of Humanity.

Scáthach: I'm not that different than you. Though...

Scáthach: I can see things like...this!

Scáthach: ...You dodged it, huh? I see why they call you the Great King of Destruction.

Altera: ...That was what I was going to say. What is that spear made of that my blade cannot destroy?

Altera: I am a destroyer. Of both old and new civilization.

Altera: I will remove all traces of sentient beings from this planet. I will destroy all that stand in my way.

Mash: ...You're!?

Fou: Fou! Kyuu, kyaau!

Scáthach: Is this another remnant of death?

Scáthach: This is quite the creature we've run into. Is the incineration of humanity capable of twisting things this far?

Mash: You know who she is, don't you? This Heroic spirit, whose magical energy rivals a dragon...

Scáthach: More than you do. As the slayer of many gods, and bearer of the knowledge of the Land of Shadows...

Scáthach: ...and as a being who's achieved eternity on the outside of the world, I know one thing...

Scáthach: This would-be war machine is a little too dangerous to appear as a remnant of death!

Fergus: That's right. Indeed, Ms. Scáthach is just right! But, I do like slender bodies, though...

Fergus: I can feel the core of my groin tighten when I look at her! She might be even a better woman than Ms. Scáthach!

Fergus: Hahaha, but my intuition says what's inside her ain't quite what it looks like!

Fergus: Go on ahead, Fujimaru, Mash!

Fergus: My Caladbolg is enough to delay the incarnated form of the King of Destruction!


Fujimaru 1: Fergus!


Fujimaru 2: YEAH!


Fergus: Don't worry. It's a question of compatibility.

Fergus: My guess is that if I break her first, she won't be able to use her full power!

Fergus: Ms. Scáthach has the job of guiding you! So go!

Scáthach: Sorry, Fergus. I'll leave the rest to you.

Fergus: It's an honor! Until we meet again, friends! Now that fate's brought us together, I'm sure we will!

Mash: ...Right!

Fou: Fou, foouuu!

Fergus: Good, they're gone. ...Well, next time we meet, they might be enemies.

Fergus: I'm always on the side with the best girls, so I can't guarantee anything there.

Altera: ...

Fergus: Now, let's do this. Let's fight fair, square, and hard, so we've got no regrets.

Fergus: For as stubborn as you are, though, you're awfully polite. I can't believe you let Fujimaru go.

Altera: It's all the same. After I crush you, I'll destroy them too.

Altera: I destroy all that I see. That's what I was made for.

Fergus: You know, it'll be a hassle to break your body in that state.

Fergus: But you know! I'm ready for it!

Fergus: Whether it's coincidence, or inevitability I have no idea. It's probably a curse of the ancient gods...

Fergus: But the true identity of my spiral sword, being a fragment of the distant, ancient gods is more than enough reason to kill you!

Altera: ...Target, one. Initiate destruction.

Final Guidance

Mash: ...Is Fergus okay, you think?

Mash: I can't detect his magical energy, maybe because of the fire. His temporary contract with Senpai appears to be broken.

Fou: Fou, foouu... Fouu...


Fujimaru 1: Uncle...


Fujimaru 2: Fergus...


Scáthach: Don't make that face, Fujimaru. Celtic warriors live to challenge the powerful.

Scáthach: And you're still alive. Whether he died or not, he achieved his goal.

Scáthach: The most you can do is laugh. He'd say he didn't need anything, but if you want to give him something, that's enough.

Mash: ...Right.

Scáthach: Did you not hear me? ...Hmm. Maybe you didn't.

Scáthach: Still, this town's flame sure is burning bright. Also, it seems we've been running around in circles.


Fujimaru 1: Why are we back here?


Fujimaru 2: ...I think I understand.


Scáthach: A town about to burn to the ground, huh? This place must have left strong impressions of death on you.

Scáthach: That's why there are so many remnants here that were abandoned even by death.

???: Exactly what you just said...

???: This place will be overflowing with those remnants, and much sorrow and pain as well.

Scáthach: So you're here. The last Heroic Spirit I prepared. The first spear of the glorious knights from the Fenian Cycle.

Fou: Fou!?

Diarmuid: My true name is Diarmuid Ua Duibhne. I've been summoned as a Lancer for this temporary contract.

Diarmuid: I will fight with you for the last trial. Scáthach, shield maiden, and my temporary Master.

Mash: Diarmuid Ua Duibhne! A hero from the second age of Celtic myths, the Fenian Cycle.

Mash: He brought glory to the Knights of Fianna along with the god-slaying hero, Fionn mac Cumhaill. Then...

Diarmuid: ...

Mash: Uh...

Mash: Sorry. I should have kept my mouth shut.


Fujimaru 1: What do you mean?


Fujimaru 2: Did you say something bad?


Diarmuid: No. Fret not, shield maiden. The incidents in the legend were a result of my own disloyalty and lack of virtue.

Scáthach: The hero's end was betrayal and death. A man of glory isn't guaranteed a happy ending.

Scáthach: That goes for more than just Diarmuid. The greater the admiration for a hero...

Scáthach: ...the more likely they are to meet a tragic end. "I have no end," so it's not a concern for me.

Scáthach: Thinking back, yes... Not even Sétanta's end was a happy one.

Mash: Scáthach...

Scáthach: No, this is where you laugh, Mash. Celtic men leave behind nothing but tears and rage for their women.

Scáthach: If you don't laugh, you'll end up hating them. Of course, that's not an absolute rule.

Diarmuid: It's true that I regret my end. That's why my lance can be of aid to you.

Diarmuid: Even if this is a temporary contract, a Master is no different than a liege lord.


Fujimaru 1: Thank you, Diarmuid.


Fujimaru 2: Let's fight together.


Diarmuid: ...What a pleasant response... There are no lies in your heart, are there?

Diarmuid: Then I, Diarmuid Ua Duibhne, shall become your spear with all my spirit!

Scáthach: Yes, yes. I figured you'd get along. Diarmuid prefers Masters who are exactly what they seem to be.

Scáthach: I've raised so many warriors that I think I've got a good eye for when people will get along.


Fujimaru 1: You're like a goddess of relationships.

Scáthach: Well, I'm nothing of the sort, but... I don't mind being told that.

Scáthach: Heh. That's an interesting idea, Fujimaru. Goddess of Relationships... I might think about that...


Fujimaru 2: You're like an old matchmaking aunt.

Mash: S-Senpai! N-N-No! That's so rude...

Mash: N-No, I don't mean there's anything wrong with being an old matchmaking lady, but...

Scáthach: Hmm, I see, I see. You want to die. You want to die here, huh Fujimaru?

Scáthach: Mash's phrasing isn't too bad, though. Lady. That sounds elegant. I like it.

Scáthach: Well, the fact is, in human years I'm over 2000 years old. It doesn't bother me that much, and I haven't had the chance anyway.

Mash: The chance?

Scáthach: Hehehe. Don't worry about it. Perhaps I'll tell you someday, but not now.


Scáthach: Now then. Enough fun. The last remnant approaches.

Fou: Fou, fooou! Kyuu!

???:

Mash: I sense a Heroic Spirit, or no...

Scáthach: The Heroic Spirit Orion. Or no, your true name is— one of the old gods of Mt. Olympus. Artemis, the moon goddess.

Scáthach: But what gave you that form? Oh, I see. The tales of you falling in love with a human are true.

Scáthach: That explains your human form, but...

Fou: Fou, foouuu! Kyuu!


Fujimaru 1: What's wrong, Fou?


Fujimaru 2: F-Fou is really excited!


Scáthach: Perhaps that beast understands. Yes. This avatar of the moon goddess is another remnant abandoned by death.

Scáthach: Its ferocity and savagery... Oh, it rivals that cursed boar!

Diarmuid: Yes, the ancient moon goddess had another side, a cruel one that would spread plagues, bring death, and drive men mad.

Diarmuid: The gods are not always a blessing to humanity. Sometimes, like this, they will bare their fangs just like mother nature.

Diarmuid: That's why we, the Knights of Fianna, were once needed in ancient Erin.

Diarmuid: To protect the people from demons. To protect them from the gods.

???:

Mash: The ferocity...of a god... I feel an incredible animosity and urge to kill!

Scáthach: I wonder if this remnant is from your past, or from your future.

Scáthach: Whichever it is, an avatar of a god is still a god!

Scáthach: Hahahaha! It's been so long since I've killed a god! I'm excited!

Scáthach: I'll kill you, Artemis! It's disgusting that you would take a "human form."


Fujimaru 1: Scáthach, you're really excited!

Scáthach: It's been so, so long since I've fought a Mediterranean god! I can't wait!


Fujimaru 2: YEAH!

Scáthach: A splendid answer from the heart, Fujimaru!


Mash: ... ...

Mash: ...We're going to fight a god. A Divine Spirit. No, but it's an avatar.


Fujimaru 1: It's okay. Just calm down and do it like always.


Mash: ...Yes, I'm fine.

Mash: Whether this is a dream, or reality, if I'm with you I can fight!

Scáthach: Here it comes! Are you guys ready?

--BATTLE--

Artemis: ...Oh?

Artemis: Oh dear, oh dear... I feel like I've been very mean to you.

Artemis: I'm sorry. I didn't mean it. Even though Darling didn't tell me to, I...

Diarmuid: ...It was only for one battle, but if I was of use to you, there is no greater joy.

Diarmuid: Shield maiden, temporary Master. Someday, beyond the end of time, we may meet.

Diarmuid: Farewell. Scáthach... A million thanks for your compassion.


Fujimaru 1: Thank you, Diarmuid Ua Duibhne.


Fujimaru 2: Is this...the end?


Mash: Yes, Senpai...

Mash: Scáthach said this was the last remnant. Which means we should be done?

Scáthach: Correct. You get a perfect score. Now, since that's done...

Scáthach: This is as far as I go. The overflowing remnants have been removed from your hearts.

Scáthach: So there's no need for me to force myself to stay in this realm.

Fou: Foou, fou...

Mash: Scáthach...

Scáthach: Even if you die, you will never become remnants. So there's nothing to fear... Though I suppose it's cruel to say that.

Scáthach: Fear, tremble, and yet stand against a pride that would incinerate even death.

Scáthach: If nothing else, you've done it once.

Scáthach: So it should be just as easy to do it again, or three times, or a hundred. Do your jobs, and become the heroes who restored humanity.


Fujimaru 1: I can't do it a hundred times, Scáthach!


Fujimaru 2: YEAH!


Mash: ...Yes. We'll do our best until the end.

Fou: Foou!

Mash: Oh, yes. And with Fou's help, too!