Chapter 238 - 11.3

"To think so much tension can come from a bloody drinking party," Tokiomi sighed into the gramophone by his desk. No sooner had he steadied his (slightly taut) nerves after Berserker X revealing his hidden power did the possibility of a battle royale arise.

'A drinking party of Servants in opposition to one another?' Jade's teasing voice echoed in his head. 'Oh of course, it should be the absolute picture of cordiality.'

A smirk twitched its way onto the Master's face. 'You know, some say sarcasm is the lowest form of humor, Lancer X.'

'They've obviously never met me, then.' A rather undignified snort escaped Tokiomi, helping to soothe his apprehension. It was oddly refreshing. His Servant's following report furthered the process. 'They seem to have cooled down again after hearing Rider X's… ambitions.'

The mention of that familiar speaking of his plans made his stomach turn ever so slightly. World domination, conquest of the multiverse… Any other individuals, and Tokiomi would've simply laughed it off. That one, though… the Master was now positive that Rider X's time on this world would be nearing an end. Nothing good could come otherwise.

Then Kirei's voice from the gramophone realigned his thoughts. "Still think we should let Archer do as he pleases? His mood shifts from amused to irritated and back again."

Tokiomi chuckled. "When one's the king of kings and has been called by a rival, one can't ignore the challenge." In a way, he owed Rider and his cohorts his thanks for dismantling the Bounded Field around the Einzbern castle with their brazen entrance. Assassin and Lancer X had no trouble slipping undetected in after the other Servants.

It admittedly taxed his mind to juggle shared perception with Lancer X and listen to Kirei's field commentary, but this was necessary. With so many different entities present, he couldn't risk missing crucial details by having only one point of view. The information compiled had already been a heavy boon to his future plans. Not to mention some unexpected surprises like Kariya's presence in the War. Tokiomi had been admittedly caught off guard by what Jade had told him of her time with Rin, but seeing him again through her eyes confirmed that Aoi's old friend truly was the Matou Master. A shame: Rin and… had always liked him. But now they were enemies, and Tokiomi would have to eliminate him from the War. Such was the life of a magus.

As for Gilgamesh, that part of the banquet had made Tokiomi feel like he was walking on eggshells. He understood the King of Heroes had a certain… alright, an unmatchable confidence in his own might, but couldn't he show just a little caution before dropping off so many hints towards his identity? Rider seemed to have a hunch who he was, and Lancer X had directed him in noticing scrutinous glances from Caster X and Assassin X. It seemed Archer's anonymity could be coming to an end.

I hopefully don't have to rein him in by Command Seal again, Tokiomi stared forlornly at his recently replenished set. I've only just regained it. Though it hadn't been part of his original plan, Lancer X slaying Caster's Master had not only saved his daughter but also provided an alibi for Father Risei to award him one Command Seal each. Jade had even displayed the foresight to collect the serial killer's head as proof of her kill in case anyone tried to protest. Sure, Caster was still running amuck thanks to that inscrutable Archer X, but the rogues' time was limited without a Master.

Tokiomi could therefore use a Seal to recall Archer like last time and still retain two for the final part… but no Servants had died yet. He needed to be careful with spending it. Or at least track Caster down and kill him for more Seals.

Tokiomi sipped some tea to clear his mind; his thoughts were going in circles. He ought to concentrate on the current situation. "Kirei, Lancer X," he spoke up, "how would you compare each of the Servants' battle strength to that of Archer?"

'You're not asking how I would stack up to them?'

'Don't take it personal, Jade,' Tokiomi assured his faux-insulted Servant. 'I haven't forgotten your talents in battle or espionage. It's simply that Archer with his Gate of Babylonand that,' he alluded to the ancient weapon that had no equal within the King's treasury,'remains our greatest weapon. You're a precise scalpel, he's a force of nature.'

'…Well, aren't you a charmer.' Jade conceded in a playful manner, making Tokiomi's smile just a little kinder. He found himself truly relieved that they'd managed to regain some of their old repartee. I'll have to come up with something special for Rin when this is over.

But that would have to wait. First came the Grail War. He fiddled with the jewel connection so that Kirei could hear Lancer X and vice versa. His disciple answered first. "As his Master, I believe Rider X is still hiding his true power."

"Rider X is not a concern," Tokiomi dismissed the concern, "your Command Seals will suffice to hold him down when the time comes." His antics had grown tedious, but once a Seal had paralyzed that titan, he would be easy pickings for Jade or Gilgamesh.

He sensed Lancer X's disagreement, but she apparently chose to stay on topic. 'Lancer's dueling prowess and the abilities of his spears make for a deadly combo, but Archer shouldn't have much trouble if he keeps his distance. Besides, he is more interested in Archer X and Saber. That reduces the possibility of us ever having to confront him.'

"Caster X is… hard to quantify." Even through the distance, Tokiomi sensed a hint of frustration in Kirei. "He's shown his class's talent for sorcery, far beyond that of most modern magi, and an irregular proficiency for melee combat. But... I just have this feeling that there's more to him than meets the eye. Assassin agrees but has yet to discover anything concrete about him."

Lancer X continued. 'Saber X's skill with his unusual weapon is masterly, and this Misfortune he spoke of adds an uncertainty factor. But I doubt he has any greater power at his disposal.'

"Berserker X is the exact opposite," Kirei put into contrast. 'He boasts monstrous levels of mana and physical strength, but he lacks proper training, and his habit of holding back in battle reduces somewhat his threat level."

'The real danger would be if they fought together,' Jade theorized. 'Look at Saber and Assassin X. The injury Lancer inflicted on Saber has hampered her performance, but she remains a fearsome warrior befitting her class. Assassin X is a versatile and clever adversary who may yet hold a hidden trump card. Most importantly, those two have the highest battle synergy of any team in this Grail War. Together, they might prove able to defeat Gilgamesh.'

In a regular Grail War, Tokiomi would've dismissed such a thought as ridiculous. But this wasn't a regular Grail War. "Then we'll have to make sure not to engage them as a unit." He then turned the conversation to one Heroic Spirit that had warranted caution since the first moment he'd heard of his presence. "What about the King of Conquerors?"

"That depends on whether Rider's Gordius Wheel is his most potent weapon or if he has another," was Kirei's answer. This made his teacher hum in contemplation.

'…Do you plan on testing their abilities here?'

"That does seem the best option, Lancer X. With their guards lowered by focusing on wine and arguing with one another, this could be our best chance to find out at least one or two Servants' full potential." Tokiomi clasped his hands together pleased with his tactical maneuver. The only question was who to send. Archer would disregard any order that didn't come from a Command Seal, and even empowered, Lancer X wasn't threatening enough to draw out seven Heroic Spirits' full might. She'd barely survived against three.

The Servant of the Spear was aware of this as well and hoped he wouldn't have her blow her cover for a suicide run. 'Rider X is already in the thick of it and has been antagonizing everyone,' she offered. 'Perhaps you could order him to take that final step, Kirei.' Two birds, one stone.

But her idea was refused. "The only reason they haven't attacked him yet is because of Rider's hospitality, and everyone is waiting for him to slip up. If Rider X starts a fight now, he'd be overwhelmed from all sides in seconds." Kirei's argument sadly made sense.

That left only one alternative. "Then have Assassin attack the group," Tokiomi decided.

'They are not suited for combat, even fully assembled,' Jade reminded him.

But he was sure of his plan. "Victory isn't important for this kind of mission, and the presence of so many is sure to unveil at least one trump card. From there, we can gauge their strengths." The Tohsaka Master rose from his seat to head for the nearby teapot. "I believe this is our best option given the circumstances."

Kirei gave no objections or dissent. "Understood, though I will need about ten minutes to assemble all of the Assassins."

"That's fine," Tokiomi assured him. He felt a psychic sigh and went on. "I know this is a big gamble, Lancer X, but even if it fails, we will have lost nothing." A confident smile emerged. "Give them the command, 'Fight for victory no matter the cost.'"

Kirei looked away from the magecraft device before and toward his Command Seals. He made to invoke the all-powerful command as ordered… and hesitated.

Why? An odd question now. He didn't care much about Assassin other than them being a valuable tool, and the inevitable death of this Servant would mean he'd be one step closer to walking… away from… all this…

He glanced from the set on one hand to the other… and weighed his options.

-102:22:52

Once again, silence had descended upon the banquet. Assassin X was the least surprised at the revelation of Saber's wish, her having confided it to him before. He thereby took the time to gauge the others' reactions. Lancer and Saber X showed open approval. Caster X similarly, but with a thoughtful gleam in his eyes. Berserker X looked disappointed that a fight hadn't broken out. Archer and Rider's expression, though, were hard to read. And Rider X sneered in obvious derision.

Then his optics flickered and shifted focus. The ninja's own eye narrowed. What is he…?

"Save your kingdom, huh?" Saber X's question broke through his thoughts. "Sounds good on paper, but how exactly are you going to do that?"

"With a similar wish as yours, Saber X. Restart my life, only take steps this time to prevent Britain's downfall." His counterpart nodded to herself. "If that does not work, then I will find a different way to change fate. If the Holy Grail can truly make miracles happen, then I shall use it for such a purpose."

"Change your fate…" Saber was surprised to see such a serious expression on Rider. He stared unblinking at her. "Just to be clear, Saber… Britain's destruction occurred in your time? It came to ruin during your reign?"

"Yes," her tone sharpened, not happy to relive the memory. "That is why I cannot accept it. I regret it every day, hence my resolve to change that."

Caster X gazed at her carefully. "…Each kingdom is fated to end one day, King of Knights." His tone was gentle, without admonishment or condemnation. "Such is the nature of life."

Saber started at his reading through her words but rallied herself. "I understand that, Caster X, but I alone bear the blame for my country's fall, and it is my duty to make it right." She then heard a particularly unpleasant sound and scowled at its source. "Just what is so funny, Archer?"

The golden Servant only continued to laugh without shame before finally catching his breath. "You, claiming to be a king and praised by all, carry regrets?" A greater laugh escaped him. "How could this not amuse me? The Sabers of this War make such delightful jesters!"

"Keep laughing, you golden son of a-" Saber X growled as Rider raised his arm to bar him from lunging.

Assassin X had now moved closer to the debate with a concerned expression to his irate partner. "Easy does it, Saber. Everyone has their own opinions-" he tried to calm her before a different king plowed through his efforts.

"Do not coddle your partner, Assassin X." Rider told him in a stern voice. "How can you abide by her desire to erase the history she herself created?"

"What if I do?" Saber shot back. "Why do you question or laugh at it? The country I loved, the one I devoted all of my life to, was destroyed." She rose from her seating position to glare at the rest. "You do not question your partner's wish despite the similarities."

"Well," Saber X scratched his head with a sigh, "there's the difference of me being selfish in wanting to change my life, for one. I mean, I was never a king or even a real leader aside from some Huntsman missions, so my view's a lot smaller than yours. Besides," his eyes had regained more clarity, "our circumstances are different. I'm a guy who literally brings bad luck wherever I go. But from what I've read of your story, King of Knights, you had a pretty great reign. At least up till the ending, of course. You really want to risk changing all that?"

"Yes, I would," the Saber of this world affirmed slightly calmer than before. His gaze relaxed her temper by some bit; he was honestly confused. "When you are a King, Qrow Branwen, your foremost duty is to sacrifice yourself for the sake of your country, regardless of the cost."

Lancer smiled to himself, proud he had been blessed with such a chivalrous opponent. Assassin X, though, glanced between Saber and the other monarchs with a troubled expression while Caster X appeared inscrutable. Saber X for his part thought back to Vale's last King (a very old friend of his), and all he had sacrificed time and again, before nodding. "Okay, fair point-"

"She's wrong, Qrow." Iskandar raised his voice to regain the attention. "It is not the King who sacrifices himself for his country," he stated in a voice as solid as rock, "it is the country and the people who sacrifice themselves. You see the concept backwards."

The words shocked Saber to her core, and she wasn't alone. Lancer and Saber X shared her expression as did Assassin X (from what little could be seen). Moreover, Archer and Rider X who seemed to have regained his focus on the present, smirked as though in agreement. Berserker X on the other hand had put aside his smile but seemed on his side as well. Caster X sat neutral. "How can you say such tyrannical things, King of Conquerors?" The knight of Fianna demanded in his own outrage a second faster than Saber would've.

"Because that is precisely what he is, Lancer. We who sit here," Rider X spoke again while gesturing to Archer, Rider, and himself, "are heroes because we are tyrants. Even Berserker X, in his own way." His sharp fingers pointed to the King of Conquerors' partner before falling back to his side. "We carved bloody paths and pulled our subjects along into whatever slaughters came, overshadowing their wills with our own. This is what we are, plucked from the Throne of Heroes, and as rulers, we accept all of what this entails." He cast a pitying look at Saber which incensed her as he added, "But a King who doubts her own rule or how it fell apart is a weakling even more reprehensible than the tyrants she loathes."

Saber clenched her right fist so tightly her gauntlet creaked. "Your rule must have been a desolate one, Megatron, filled with slaughter to sate your never-ending hunger for more power. I doubt you can claim ever being satisfied." She then glared at the other Rider. "And you, Iskandar. Your empire dissolved into separate factions that tore each other apart, all of your heirs slain and everything you'd built lost to time. Are you telling me you do not regret this ending?"

Rider didn't flinch, taking her in turn aback. "Not at all." His alien colleague answered for both. "I confess to being dissatisfied with dying before achieving my goals and how I died," his smile twitched at the memory of a certain voiceless scout, "but I carry no regret over how I lived my life or enforced my will."

"As Mithrandir said earlier, all kingdoms crumble eventually. If all I had amassed fell due to my own judgement and the actions of my followers, then I will accept it. I will lament it, even shed tears over it, but I shall never regret it." Iskandar's closed eyes opened to glare at her. "Nor would I do something as ridiculous as change it! That would bring shame to every soul who had lived and fought by my side!"

"Your ways of thinking have too much of a warrior's way and not enough of a leader's." Assassin X remained seated, but his posture had taken a certain edge. "I may have never been a King in my life, but I was put in charge of others on missions. And I grew up in a time of war, where the leader of my village, a man I'm proud to call my teacher, fought alongside us to protect us, the innocent people of our home and our way of life. But he never conquered. You Riders focused in your lives more about expanding your kingdoms' territory than actually governing what you had." His tone sharpened. "To you 'Kings,' the subjects of your lands were likely just trophies or tools. Not people and certainly not comrades."

Archer gazed right back at him without a change in expression. Rider X only smirked; this was no insult to him. It was simple fact, after all. But Rider's arms tightened around each other. "Tread carefully, Assassin X." He looked about ready to strike the other Servant.

"That is advice you should have taken yourself," Saber declared, stepping instinctively in front of her friend as though to shield him. "You call yourself a ruler and do not bother to protect the weak under your watch?" She held up her arms one after the other to emphasize her way to rule. "Correct governance, just laws, those are the supreme duties of a king!"

As she lowered her arms, Rider breathed through his nose to lessen his anger at Assassin X's jab. He then returned his attention to Saber. "Then you, the King of Knights, are a slave to justice?"

"Of course," Artoria Pendragon replied. "All Kings must be martyrs for their beliefs." These words were simple truth, the ideals she had been taught in her time and striven to uphold. Diarmuid Ua Duibhne, a simple knight, nodded his head in agreement to this statement.

But worry flashed through Kakashi Hatake's eye as he spared a glance to his comrade.

Megatron snorted unashamedly, earning her irate stare, but it was Iskandar who spoke after retrieving his goblet. "That is no way for a human to live."

Saber thought back to that moment where she had stood before that sword in the stone, Merlin hovering over her. "When you become a King, you cease to be a regular human being." She then made to truly denounce the King of Conquerors' ways as he had hers-

"What a load of bullshit." Everyone turned with varying levels of surprise to the last Servant anyone would've expected to take part in this topic.

Berserker X's demeanor hadn't grown any less disinterested in the topic. "All this junk about ideals and being beyond human for them is ridiculous." He spoke about this matter with the bluntness of a heavy club. "I never put much effort in leading my squad members, but I sure as hell didn't tell them to throw away their lives for their beliefs or mine. Martyring yourself always sounds so nice on paper, but who would be stupid enough to really follow that path? Martyrs always die, after all." The stare he sent Saber's way made her shift back a step.

And Kenpachi wasn't done. "What the hell can you do when you're dead? You can't fight anymore, you can't talk anymore, you can't lead anymore. If you really want to inspire people that bad, you should fight, laugh, teach and live to show them what it means to follow these ideals you believe in so much. But if you just go and get yourself killed for these precious subjects of yours, you won't have done them any favors. All they'll do is sit in the dirt, whining that their precious guardian is gone, unable to take care of themselves or even understand what you died for." He snorted without humor. "Throwing your life away doesn't help anybody, Saber. Least of all yourself."

Rider nodded gravely as his partner finished. "It is as Kenpachi says, King of Knights. You must have been a purehearted saint in life, a heavenly figure shining with nobility and pride. But who can truly admire a being that does not appear human? Who shows nothing but dedication to an ideal?" He jabbed a large finger to Saber's side. "Look, even your own partner disagrees with your path."

She turned to see for herself, her eyes widening in pain at how the silver-haired man shifted his gaze not to meet hers. Something struck against her heart. "Kakashi…?" The words came out in a whisper despite herself.

Archer's interest returned and focused upon the hurt on her face, the weakness that had washed through her body. His sharklike smirk appeared again.

His shoulders slumped, Assassin X sighed before speaking. "Rider's… half-right, Saber. I do believe in your way of ruling more than I do in his. A good leader makes sure to uphold his values and care for his people. That's my belief, and I don't doubt for a second that's what you strove to do as King of Britain." Saber sensed sincerity in those words, however softly spoken they were, and the weight against her eased by a small measure.

Rider X leaned amused over to Archer and said (not very quietly), "Fascinating isn't it, Archer? How nothing someone says before the word 'but' really counts?"

Archer's laugh was cut short by the tip of a certain yellow spear hovering near his throat. "Careful, golden King," Lancer warned in a low rumble, "this discussion has made my aim a little volatile. I'd hate to injure royalty." He'd wanted to step in for Saber's defense ever since this had started, but Caster X had kept sending him telling glances he eventually understood. She ought to defend herself in this battle of kingly words and ideals.

Didn't mean he was happy with merely being a bystander, of course.

A large scythe blade curled simultaneously around Rider X's neck. He snarled at its owner. "Is this your idea of hospitality, little man?"

"Oh, totally, Megs," Saber X shot back. "Keep up your jabbering, and you'll get the extra-special treatment."

A vein grew visible on Gilgamesh's forehead. This mongrel begging for a pat on the head from someone was threatening him? He was just about to show him what real spears looked like when his ears picked up the mouthless mongrel speaking again.

"But… I don't agree with what you said about a King not being human, Saber." Assassin X turned his head back to look her in the eye. She saw the regret and compassion clear as day within his iris. "The leaders of my home were colorful individuals and with flaws all their own, but none of them ever tried to act as though they were separate from the rest of us. They never tried to martyr themselves either. That would've gone against all of our teachings.

"I'm sorry, Saber." That eye closed briefly as he shook his head, then reopened. "Casting off your humanity… can't be the answer for what makes a good King. I just can't accept that."

She stared back at him, blinking slowly as she processed these words, before a different voice broke through the haze in her mind. "There you have it, King of Knights." Unlike his competitor, Rider took no pleasure in seeing her so broken. But he felt it was his duty as a fellow King to jolt her out of this foolish dream she'd wrapped herself up in. "Assassin X follows the teachings his home's King imparted upon him. For that is how ideals must be passed on. But do you know what became of the people you led?"

Clouds seemed to have gathered again, this time over Saber alone. "…What do you mean?" One second, she was standing amidst heroes from other times and worlds… the next, she was atop that hill of Camlann again, lifeless bodies beneath her. Excalibur in her hand, its divine blade dripping with that precious liquid.

"You may have saved them, but you never guided them." Rider's voice ripped through her mind like thunder. "You never taught them what it meant to be a king, you left your subjects to fend for themselves as they lost their way…"

"That's enough, Rider-" Assassin X's voice briefly appeared amidst the wind blowing on that hill.

But the thunder grew stronger. "You alone continued to play the great saint, wrapped up in your little ideals. You truly are no real king…"

"Enough already!" A new light began to shine even as the life faded from her body.

"You merely spent your whole life pursuing the image of a humble King that protects others! You're nothing more than-"

"Enough."

Suddenly, Saber felt herself pulled away from the hill just before she would have to witness that sunset on what remained of her kingdom… her home…

And she was back in the Einzbern courtyard, a Servant surrounded by Servants again. But the center of attention was no longer her; something that relieved her by just a tiny bit.

Saber's eyes slowly followed the gaze of everyone towards the source. To the one whose voice had returned her to the present.

Caster X sat cross-legged as before but different. He was taller now, or perhaps it seemed that way due to him no longer slouching. And there was a… presence emanating from him. Not raging mana like from Berserker X before, no. This was… different. A great shadow.

Those wizened eyes, normally blue and gentle like a cool spring, stared with unwavering might into those of Rider. "You have made your point, King of Conquerors." The non-Servant quartet on the side and even a few Servants shivered involuntarily at the words. They came from the old man's mouth but were far deeper and more ominous than usual. Even Iskandar felt himself cowed, like when he had been a little boy and his more imposing tutors would chide him for not paying attention in class.

And then the presence receded. Caster X seemed to shrink back into himself, looking more the frail grandfatherly person he appeared to be. "I did not intrude earlier upon your argument with Saber," and every single one found themselves at least the tiniest bit relieved that his voice had returned to its usual soothing tone, "as I believed it best for both of you to lay bare your beliefs of kingship. But now you left me with no choice, Iskandar King." He inclined his head towards Saber's side at Iskandar's quizzical look. "Had I not spoken, you may have found your quest for the Grail cut prematurely."

Saber glanced down to see Assassin X easing himself out of a crouch. Stray bolts of lightning crackled around his curled right fingers before fading away. "I won't apologize for almost breaking up the party, Caster X," Assassin X acknowledged in a tone so cold frost would've covered his mask. His eye didn't shift away from Rider. "I suppose becoming a Heroic Spirit has shortened my fuse a bit." He sat back on the ground. "That's embarrassing."

Rider easily picked up on the unspoken warning sent his way. Inwardly, he smiled. She has a fine comrade by her side.

Artoria's mind sped through all of the details from what she just saw, and her legs instinctively shifted from standing into kneeling among the circle again. Next to her partner. So, he is a bit protective… Despite the anguish still present inside her core, her mouth shifted into a tiny half-smile towards Assas- Kakashi. Why am I not surprised?

Then Saber cleared her throat and focused on another Servant. "Was my partner's behavior the only reason you stepped in now, Gandalf the Gray? Why not earlier?"

"You should have interrupted this show later, apparition," Archer drawled while batting away Lancer's spear with ease. The weak-minded dog had been so rattled by the old one's spectacle he offered no resistance now.

Then again, all of the Servants were staring at the "wizard" before them with curiosity and trepidation. Gilgamesh himself found he couldn't enjoy the bountiful anguish etched across Saber's face as much. But now he was certain. This one is no mongrel like the rest, he frowned pensively. He never was. He merely wore the guise of one. But… what is he?

Similar questions ran through the minds of others, even Kariya unsure of what exactly his Servant was hiding. But Caster X deemed other topics more important than discussing his true nature. "I believed it best, Saber, that the two different forms of kingship be displayed before us," the wise Servant explained. He lifted one hand to her, "A protector as King," and one to Rider, "and a crusader as King." The arms fell back down as he shook his head. "But I spoke now to prevent Rider from carrying himself too far in his admonishment of you. You may stand in opposition to one another, even disapprove of the other's ways, but no King has the right to deny the other their title." He shifted his gaze. "And she remains King of Knights, regardless of your opinion."

Rider found himself actually squirming from the chiding stare sent his way. Berserker X and Saber X were snickering at his actions, the traitors. If only mother could see me now… he grumbled to himself but rallied, nonetheless. "Very well, I will not deny her that, Mithrandir. But I refuse to accept her childish, self-sacrificing ideals."

"As you should not," Caster X nodded in agreement. Saber grew affronted and confused at this before unconsciously taking on a more attentive side as he returned to her. "You are a passionate one, Saber King, despite your cool expression. And you commit yourself to what you believe in and those you care for with all your being. Admirable qualities befitting a king." He gestured to Rider again. "But Rider is loud, able to inspire others with life and deed while displaying his humanity to the fullest. Also admirable qualities befitting a king." He leaned back to have both of them in his sights. "The folly the both of you make is believing there is only one way to be King. Your way, and no other. But do not forget, you, Saber, and you, Rider, ruled in different lands at different times over different people."

"And just who are you to know so much about the ways of Kings, old one?" Rider X sneered again after another, briefer period of silence. Any second now…

"One who walked amongst Men for three hundred of their lifetimes." Others openly stared at Gandalf's casual description of his age. But he elaborated otherwise. "I have known many Kings of differing values. One set out on a quest to take back his homeland from a Dragon who had stolen it for the gold within." An exasperated huff escaped him. "One of the most stubborn Dwarves I have ever had to deal with, but he loved his home beyond the riches within and would always put his life on the line for the sake of his followers. Dwarf or not. Another, a very member of the fellowship I spoke of earlier, is the heir to the greatest kingdom of Men. A fine warrior and a humble, honorable Man dedicated to protecting life. But this same humility has him refuse his birthright out of shame for sins his ancestor committed. He fears he may repeat them should he become King himself. Both of these Kings are flawed but retain virtues befitting their position." He spread his arms wide. "And here among us are others who lived under different reigns as well."

Saber X weighed his head before nodding. "True, the kingdom of my time had a council governing it, but before that, its last King personally led his troops to victory in the Great War. He brought peace and would've had the chance to rule the other three kingdoms, too. Nobody would've put up a fight against Vale's Warrior King. But he refused."

Iskandar turned to his friend in shock. "He refused a chance to expand his rule?"

"Yup. Instead, he formed a peace treaty with the other rulers and helped establish a lot of things that remained even when I still lived. Abolishment of slavery, redistribution of territories, founding of the Huntsman academies I talked about, and restructuring of governments, so no more Kings and Queens." He rolled his eyes at the scrunched-up face his friend made. "FYI, we had over eighty years of peace afterwards, Candy Bar. That's nothing to sneeze at."

Saber heard those words even over the conflicted huff from Rider. Eighty years of peace… by stepping away from power… giving up the crown for the sake of the people… was that the way?

Then Berserker X spoke up. "Technically my home had a council, too, but as Captain of my squad, I and my colleagues answered to a Head-Captain." He snorted with something resembling fondness. "Grouchy old geezer… but hey, he'd stayed strong at his post for a thousand years. Wasn't afraid of giving the rest of us a good thrashing when we needed it."

The additional knowledge made Saber think again. Another "King," but one who kept the peace by staying in power… was that the way? Her mind replayed what Kakashi had said earlier, along with snippets of earlier conversations they'd had. Spirited leaders, similar but different from one another, retaining their humanity… not being separate from the people…

…What was the way?

On either side of her, Lancer and Assassin X sat in silence, both wanting to speak up in defense of her, but neither truly sure of what to say. For the knight, his thoughts traveled to his King and friend Fionn Mac Cumhaill, a good man and just ruler… and who had come to hate him out of a jealous love. For the ninja, he wanted to elaborate on the Hokage and the people who had held that position. But what right had he have to espouse upon his ideals after causing her such pain? How could he say anything that couldn't be misconstrued?

Caster X watched the trio's internal conflicts with sympathy. They were all good, fundamentally heroic souls. But being good as a hero was never quite so simple as one would think. "I am not trying to tell you that your way is wrong, Saber King." She slowly raised her head to look at him, the turmoil within settling a bit through beholding the kindness within his eyes. "I will agree with Rider that your way of ruling your people was flawed, but that does not mean it was wrong." She felt like she was back in old times, where another wizard would teach her during the most difficult times. "In all my years on Middle-Earth, I never encountered a perfect King among Men, Dwarves or even Elves. All ways of kingship inherently carry flaws. No King is, was or will ever be truly perfect. That is a simple fact."

Artoria Pendragon sat there expressionless, weighing the wisdom she had been given.

An arrogant scoff cut through his speech, making everyone else glare at the one responsible. "What nonsense!" Archer dismissed the counsel, as was his way. "For one who claims to be so wise, 'Gandalf the Gray,' you are blind to the truth before you." He drank victoriously from his goblet for all to see. "The perfect King does exist, and he sits right before you. The only way to be King is my way. The way of the King of Heroes."

Saber's anger returned in full storm at this blatant rudeness towards the wizard she admired. Others clenched their fists, narrowed their eyes, and for once, Rider completely shared her emotions. But neither King of Knights nor of Conquerors was the one to speak against Archer. "The arrogance of a spoiled noble." Archer cast his fiery gaze towards the speaker.

Rider X returned it with full force. "I have listened to the prattling of you Kings long enough, and it leaves me disappointed. You all speak of pretty ideals, but what have they actually brought? What do any of you truly know of trials?" He pointed his stake-like finger from Saber to Rider and finally to Archer. "You, who were born with your titles of King predetermined." Then he thumped his chest. "I came into being on a world shackled by castes. A council that dictated how everyone was to live and serve from the moment they existed."

Those crimson optics blazed with a fire equal to any of the three Kings. "I came from the lowest of castes. I was given no title, no name, only a number and a section where I was to mine ore in some dark cavern." Rider X grasped for something before him. "Whereas you lot were blessed from the beginning with grand destinies, I carved my own path through the gladiator pits, a place where Cybertronians fought and killed each other for the amusement of others. I refused to accept this as my end and fought my way to the top with a name I took, not one that was handed to me. And from there I challenged the rulers of Cybertron, their ways against mine." He sneered in superiority at the trio. "All of you Kings were handed your rules. I earned the right to rule." His glare fixed on one King. "That is how a conqueror lives."

Rider's nostrils flared like those of the bulls which pulled his chariot, but Archer spoke first. "Or perhaps you simply belong digging about in the dirt," the King of Heroes smirked in clear challenge, "upstart."

Irisviel found herself inching away from the increasingly irate Servants, and she wasn't alone. The humans all eyed the Riders, Archer, Saber, and the others with worry. Not since the banquet had started was there such a concentrated desire to kill amongst them. It was almost palpable. Visible winds swirled before Saber's two-handed grip, both spears were in Lancer's hands, Berserker X eagerly fingered his nodachi, Rider X's cannon muzzle glowed…. And if nine Servants chose to battle here in this courtyard, the castle would likely be reduced to dust.

Then they all stopped in their preparations as a new presence surrounded them. Electricity continued to chirp around Assassin X's (clone's) fingers as he suddenly blurred and reappeared by Irisviel's side. "Saber." His partner leaped without hesitation to him while the shinobi slowly scanned their surroundings. "We have party crashers…"

Wisps of darkness flared all along the area. Waver yelped and scrambled away from a familiar dark woman appearing behind him. A strong hand pulled him to Saber X's side, Harbinger raised protectively in front of them. "Assassin…"

More appeared from the darkness, men and women, big and small, frail and muscular. Lancer eyed them warily by his Master, who for once couldn't enjoy his proximity. "How…" Sola-Ui whispered. Kayneth had told her that Assassin had been the first casualty. That Servant was supposed to be dead.

So why were so many of them here? Rider eyed them without fear, silently grateful for this distraction. His temper was cooling again. "Are either of you responsible for this, Goldy? Megatron?"

The latter only scoffed in answer while the former grumbled, "Tokiomi, you disrespectful imbecile…" Archer hadn't been made aware of whatever schemes his Master had concocted, and truthfully, he didn't care. But to tarnish his chance to repay the slights of others…

Lancer X watched the proceedings carefully from her perch, apprehensive of her partner's tautness. She too didn't fully approve of this rash decision from Tokiomi, but he'd convinced himself it was correct. All she cold do was watch this all play out.

Rider X was similarly irritated at this folly of a tactic. But as he scanned each of the numerous Hassan's before him, his anger lessened. Minutely. Such a shame…

"T-this shouldn't be possible!" Sola-Ui finally found her voice. "Each class in this War only has two Servants. How could there be so many?!"

"We are one, and yet we are many," one male intoned.

"An army that stands as one," another continued behind Archer.

"A Servant of many shadows."

"And always one." This conclusion came from a long-haired man holding a dagger to Kariya's throat. The only thing keeping Caster X from joining his Master.

Waver processed numbly this information before concluding, "Multiple personality disorder… An individual Servant that can divide itself into many?" he breathed.

Assassin X had come to the same conclusion. "This explains how Assassin's death was faked and I killed two more later. An entire network of Assassins to watch us from the shadows." He thumbed up his forehead protector to count the collective before them. Four… Nine… Fifteen… Twenty-two… Thirty…. Thirty-nine… Forty-nine… Sixty…

"And now they are out for blood," Saber surmised. Why else would they cast off their Presence Concealment so brazenly? The targets were sure to be Irisviel and the Masters; even Servants as weak as these… dividuals ought to be could kill them with ease.

Waver himself had given up counting in favor of hiding among his Servants. "Rider… Saber X…"

"Easy does it, boy." Iskandar waved off his worry with newfound mirth. "They're not the first Servants to arrive here without invitation, and it's been a rather engaging banquet so far. They may yet help us decide who the greatest amongst us is."

Saber X processed this with a tired sigh. "Oh, come on, Kandy Bar, you're gonna invite them for drinks, too? Is this really the best time to continue your goddamn pissing contest?"

"Why not!" Rider answered cheerily, taking everyone aback despite the situation. "A King's words should be heard by all, Qrow. If they've come all this way to witness this, friend or foe, we ought to oblige them." He dipped the wine ladle into the casket and held the filled vessel high for all to see. "No need to be shy! Those of you who have come to speak, join us and collect a cup. This wine is as your blood!"

For some reason, no one was even the slightest bit surprised at Iskandar's action. What he would do, later, though…

A knife whistled through the air, slicing the ladle apart and burying itself into the stone behind Rider. Waver flinched away from it while the red liquid splashed across Rider's white t-shirt. Saber X couldn't help but eye the spill with regret. A chuckle swept through the Assassin masses.

Berserker X eyed the broken ladle, then the whole lot with dismissal. "You boys should be ashamed of yourselves, playing dead so you can peep on the rest of us. And now you've gone and wasted good wine. You better have something to offer besides numbers." He grinned at them provocatively. "A hundred times zero is still zero, after all."

Some amongst the personalities of Hundred Faces Hassan had a better grip on their tempers than others. Those of the latter category loosed simultaneously a flurry of throwing knives. The projectiles sliced through the air, aimed at specific spots of the brute's body.

They clattered harmlessly to the ground, some blades even broken in half. "Oh brother…" Berserker X finally stood up from where he sat, cracking his neck. All of the knives had struck their targets and utterly failed to so much as make a scratch. Some Assassins shifted nervously as the (supposedly) one-eyed and thoroughly bored Servant unsheathed his weapon. "Chopping you all to pieces won't even qualify as my morning workout."

A hand clapped down on his right shoulder, halting the unsheathing. Berserker X scowled at his partner who only shook his head. "This lot is not worth your time, Kenpachi. Spare your blade for stronger foes." Those words washed away the irritation inside the Soul Reaper; Rider did understand him, after all.

"As I said, this wine is as your blood." The King of Conquerors had changed his tone, now. It was small enough that only these Servants who had sat and drank with him could recognize the danger within. "If you wish to spill it tonight, I shall teach you the consequences…"

Violent winds erupted from him with that final word, roaring throughout the courtyard. The Assassins braced themselves for an attack, but those closer to the center recognized it as similar to Berserker X's earlier mana flash. Random, possibly the prelude to something. But it wasn't quite the same, either. That had been simple mana radiating with bloodlust. This gale, though, it felt hot and dry. Sharper eyes detected grains of sand flying amidst the currents.

Saber had stepped in front of Irisviel and Assassin X to shield them as best as her small body could from the storm. She lowered her gauntlet from her eyes to see Rider standing with his back to her in his battle attire now. "Fellow Servants who have sat and drank with me…" Iskandar's voice boomed even over the loudest of the winds. "This is my final question for the night:

"Must a King, or any other leader, stand alone?"

Berserker X replied with a blunt, "Don't care," making Rider palm his face with a sigh.

But then others answered. "No," said Caster X.

"Nope," Saber X agreed. Regardless of his circumstances, he'd learned the values of unity.

Lancer hesitated briefly but gave his own. "I think not."

Saber frowned as all the lessons imparted upon her tonight swept through he like the winds. Ultimately, she wasn't sure, but honor compelled her to give the answer she'd known in life. "A King has no other choice but to stand alone."

Archer smirked from where he sat while Rider X concurred. "For a King has no equals."

Assassin X felt a familiar pair of eyes on him. He sent her a silent apology before giving his own verdict. "…No King should ever have to stand alone."

That stung Saber a bit, but she voiced no further objections. He deserved that much of a courtesy.

Rider crossed his arms with a bright grin. "I see some of you have failed to learn the lesson. But now I shall teach you all my way of a true King!"

A dome of light arose from him, engulfing the circle of Servants, their companions present, and the Assassins. All except Rider covered their eyes from the blaze, including Lancer X and the real Assassin X amidst their hiding spots, undetected even by the Hassan's.

When it faded again, those two hidden Servants opened their eyes… and found themselves alone.

Kiritsugu frowned at the static on his laptop's screen. The camera's connection must have been severed. 'Assassin X, what's happened?'

'I-I don't know. Saber, Irisviel… the whole group and the Assassins have disappeared. There's no trace of them anymore!'

He clicked his tongue before changing mental 'channels'. 'Saber, what happened to you and Iri? Where are you?'

'I… I'm not sure.'

Waver huddled beside Saber X, hands over his head, eyes scrunched so shut nothing would've got past them. But he still felt the shifting of the world, the great power and now… sand? He slowly peeked one eye, then the next… and gaped in open shock.

As did many of the others. "What the hell…" Qrow breathed surprised, staring out into the vast desert before him. Stifling heat bore down on them with passing winds. The sky had turned from cloudy night to the bright blue of day.

Aside from Rider, he Servants of the banquet looked around in total awe of their surroundings, noting how they remained the same distance from each other as before… whatever had happened. The same couldn't be said for the Assassins; they stood in a confused cluster a few leagues away from them. This had the added benefit of Kariya no longer being kept at knifepoint. He stumbled over to his Servant, hastily passing back the staff as he looked about. "What's happened to us…? Is this some kind of illusion?"

"No…" Caster X eyed the area while moving protectively in front of his Master. The sand scrunching beneath his feet, the wind against his face, the humidity; these details felt too real to be a trick. "Or if it is an illusion, it is one imposed upon reality itself."

Irisviel started the wizard's observation from where she was guarded by her friends. An illusion which affects reality… She had never witnessed it before but could think of only one thing in this world that held such power. "A Reality Marble…" she whispered in wonder, drawing the others' attention. Even the Servants not this world knew of the concept. That had to be the answer to what they were experiencing.

"B-but this is ridiculous!" Sola-Ui sputtered next to Lancer. "A Reality Marble is considered the ultimate pinnacle of Bounded Fields, of magecraft itself!" Her eyes darted to the Heroic Spirit standing calmly before the Assassins. "Even as a Servant, he would have to be a magus of the highest level to achieve something like this."

Rider snorted. "Oh, I am no magus. I could never have hoped to construct this on my own." His crimson cape fluttered royally in the wind. "My armies crossed through these lands long ago. None of the courageous heroes who stood with me in times of joy and sorrow could ever forget where we stand now."

Lancer's ears then picked up something further away from them. A lot of somethings. He and the rest turned towards the horizon to see people striding out from a haze shimmering in the air like some gigantic mirage. But then they grew clearer. Soldiers marching in a steady rhythm.

Rider X himself witnessed the assembly before him, barely registering his rival's speech. "I can make this world reality again," Rider spread his arms wide in pride, "because it exists in all of our hearts!"

The armored troops drew ever closer before the viewers. "Behold, my peerless army!" Individual faces could be made out now, different designs on armor and weaponry, but they all strode forward with unwavering surety. And as Assassin X's Sharingan confirmed, every last one of them was technically a Servant. "Though their bodies have long since faded to ash, and their souls have become Heroic Spirits, they remain loyal to me, these heroes of legends!" The army stopped as one, and their King looked upon the world with the greatest excitement. "They are all my most priceless treasure, my right to kingship!"

Assassin X sensed those words being directed at him in particular. An answer to his earlier accusation.

"The greatest Noble Phantasm of Iskandar, IONIOI HETAIROI!"

A mighty cheer erupted from the masses to follow their King's cry. The sound swept over the other Servants and others, sending a chill that left them speechless, in awe and just the tiniest bit anxious.

Or in Berserker X's case, shivering with bestial delight. The thought of all these warriors arrayed against him, ready to sink their spears into his throat as he'd tear his way through them… Adrenaline surged through his veins, and he was one of only three Servants that met these proclamations with a broad smile.

One of these other two petted the nuzzle of a massive black steed that had trotted to his side. "It's been far too long, old friend," Rider's smile grew tender as Bucephalus snorted back. He then turned to the thousands of men awaiting his command. It was time to hammer the point home.

"Mithrandir." The Grey Wizard shifted his impressed gaze to the King of Conquerors. "You said earlier that any path of a King is flawed, that there is no one way to be King. Perhaps you are correct. But this is the way we believe in." He raised his voice as loud as it could stretch. "The King lives to the fullest! He embodies the admiration of his people!"

The army chanted three times as one, hefting their weapons aloft.

Iskanday swung with one clean effort into Bucephalus' saddle before continuing. "The King collects the will of all heroes and leads them towards his dream." The mighty horse turned on the spot. Before the rest who bore witness to this awe-inspiring moment (though none had more amazed eyes than Waver Velvet), the Heroic Spirit proudly declared, "Thus, the King never stands alone, for his will carries the collective will of all who would follow him to the ultimate glory that could exist!"

The army repeated their prior chant with even more fervor if that were possible. Saber stared out along the many, many warriors, seeing their absolute loyalty, their unyielding dedication to the King of Conquerors. This Noble Phantasm, Ionioi Hetairoi… it wasn't merely a weapon. It was the greatest symbol of Iskandar's ideals and way of ruling. An entire world formed by the collective dreams of thousands united by their following one man.

An unbreakable bond. One the King of Knights could've never forged in all her life.

Her shoulder being squeezed pulled Saber from this rising gloom, and she turned to look into the concerned eyes of Shadow Clone of Assassin X. Her partner. Her comrade. The burden on her heart became just a little lighter.

"Now then…" Rider shifted his attention with rising malice back to his very nervous enemy, "let us proceed, Assassin." More than a few flinched from his challenge. "As you can likely tell, we prefer wide plains to fight on. And we have the matter of numbers in our favor." He urged Bucephalus a few steps forward to where his partners stood. "Qrow, Kenpachi." Both glanced up at him. "We will handle this. Relax and enjoy the show."

Saber X took in the relatively tiny group of shadowy Assassins, then the many, many, many soldiers at Rider's command. He then collapsed Harbinger and slung it onto his waist before pulling out his flask. "…Don't need to tell me twice." He mumbled before taking a drink and trudging away. "Way to make a Servant feel insecure, big guy..."

Berserker X sheathed his sword with a laugh and sauntered to the rest. "Me and you gotta have it all out one day, Kandy Bar."

Iskandar, King of Conquerors, beamed at his friends' reactions to his Noble Phantasm, then drew his spatha with a sweeping move. "CRUSH THEM!"

He spurred his horse onward, and the army followed. All charged past the other Servants without a second glance; they were not the targets for this round. Waver watched them charge on in bewilderment before Saber X eased him to sit on the sand. Neither needed to do anything else.

Most of the Assassins tried to flee, but Asako merely let her arms fall to her side. There wasn't any point to resist. Nowhere to hide, too much sand to run, too many to fight. She offered no resistance to the sword of the King of Conquerors as it severed her head from her body.

Some soldiers hurled spears which impaled the Hassan's from afar. Others cut them off and cut them down with swords. One or two personally fell to Rider as he rode into the fray. One way or another, there was not a single Assassin left alive in the Reality Marble.

Rider surveyed the carnage he and his prized men had wrought within a single minute and pointed his sword straight into the sky with a cry of victory. His army echoed the cheer across every corner they had rampaged, another conquest in the name of the King of Conquerors. And so, their King departed alongside his guests from the Reality Marble, Ionioi Hetairoi, once again.

But not before a certain Servant of steel and savagery beheld the vast sands before him, the great army… and smiled.

Assassin X and Lancer X blinked again, and the group had returned. Minus the Assassins. 'It would seem your plan succeeded, Tokiomi,' the female Servant reported.

'Yes, indeed,' was the somewhat pleased answer of her Master. 'Return to the manor now. We have much to discuss.'

'Perhaps I should stay a little longer. I have a feeling we could learn more, and we no longer have Assassin to spy for us.' Jade made her offer in a cordial manner, not wishing to damage their newly mended trust.

Eventually, Tokiomi answered with a telepathic sigh. 'Very well.' So, she stayed to watch.

Back inside the Einzbern castle's courtyard, Rider scooped some wine from the casket. "A bit of a letdown for our banquet's ending," he lamented with a drink. Waver blinked, eyes sweeping dazed around himself. "But I suppose that's enough excitement for one night."

Saber checked on Irisviel and her partner's double (who was subtly fiddling with his surveillance gear to confirm it was working again) before raising her voice. "Wait, Rider. We're not-"

"Quiet." That single word in dismissal stopped her in her tracks. "This was a dialogue between Heroic Spirits." He turned slightly to watch her out of the corner of his eye. "Out of respect for Mithrandir's counsel, I shall continue to recognize you as a King." He slashed his sword to summon the Gordius Wheel again. "But you should take his words to heart as well. And these." As Rider stepped for his mount, his gaze grew a bit more tender.

"Wake up from this painful dream of yours, and do it quickly. See the truth before what pride you have left as a Heroic Spirit is crushed into nothing. Your ideal of kingship… the way it is now, it binds and breaks you."

Dazed though he was from the experience of standing within a Reality Marble, Lancer snapped himself back to this reality with one last attempt to defend his rival. But then he saw her straighten up and adopt a contemplative demeanor. The lack of anger in her green eyes made him relax, as it did for Assassin X and Caster X. Iskandar himself felt a splash of relief at his fellow monarch's apparent willingness to think. He made to leave, but a polite cough from Mithrandir stopped him. The elder one appeared as though he wished to say something.

A dark chortle snapped both kings out of their musings. "Do not listen to the babble of these fools, Saber." Archer leered maliciously towards her. "Follow the path you believe in, that is what's right." Those words could have been reassuring, were it not for his demeanor. He took a final sip of his own wine. "The unparalleled agony, the crushing sorrow as you try to carry a burden of kingship too great for anyone is a delight to behold."

"You've got some sick tastes there, Goldy," Berserker X mumbled while the Sabers, Assassin X Lancer and Caster glared at the King of Heroes.

"Your palate is simply unrefined, mad dog," Archer shot back unafraid of the anger cast his way. "Continue to thrash about against each other, mongrels. Carve, burn and send one another in your scramble for what belongs to me." He rose to a standing position with one more smirk at the rest. "Perhaps the last one standing amongst you may yet earn my blessing." Golden dust shimmered around him as he focused on one in particular. "I'm rooting for you, adorable King of Knights." Then all that remained of him was a taunting cackle.

Saber was just about to drive her sword into something while Rider grumbled. "Always needs to make things so dramatic."

"Look who's talking," Saber X, Assassin X and Lancer replied in unison, earning a stinkeye from the King of Conquerors.

"Indeed." He turned to see Rider X take one last sip of wine with a wooden cup. He too rose and strode into a different direction. "An impressive showing, Rider. I cannot remember the last time I've witnessed such glorious delusion."

Rider closed the distance to him in three swift strides, his expression stern. "You would call the way of the King of Conquerors a delusion? Even after having witnessed the eternal bond between me and my army? Can you still claim, Megatron, that I know nothing of trials or earning my right to rule?"

Rider X sneered right down at him. "Eternal bond…" He spat out the words with a derision that would've made most lunge at him. "Just as Saber is a little girl filled with illusions of knightly chivalry who plays at being a humble, just king, you are a little boy who was read too many epic tales and is now running around in search of your own adventure. You have taken the way of the conqueror and twisted it into some romantic fantasy. This army you have at your beck and call is your most priceless treasure? Your right to rule?" A vicious laugh with no humor escaped those sharp teeth. "Armies are weapons to defend what you have and lay claim to more. Simple as that. And if your strength comes from all of your followers, then that simply means you are left with nothing without them.

"You may be a King, Iskandar, but I refuse to acknowledge you as the King of Conquerors."

The two Heroic Spirits of the Mount gazed levelly at each other, flames of anger blazing in two sets of red eyes. Saber X and Berserker X moved to confront the largest Servant as well, but a tanned palm snapped up to stop them. Rider finally spoke in a frighteningly level tone. "…The darkness of those mines you toiled in… of the pits where you fought for life and victory… it continues to lurk within you, Megatron. Your belief of conquest stems from a neverending hunger. A bitter envy of all with bright dreams." He flashed a broad, vicious smile. "I shall prove my title worthy and drag you into the light when we do battle."

Rider X matched his expression tooth for tooth. "We will see." He then turned on his heel and took a few steps away.

"Uh," Saber X glared at the massive behemoth, "where do you think you're going? Party's over, there's nothing left to keep you safe from the beatdown you deserve-"

"Anyone who wishes to stop me may try their luck." Megatron leered without fear towards the rest. "I have been sated otherwise for the most part tonight, and the first Servant has finally fallen. Victory is yours for now, Iskandar." He cast one final challenge over his shoulder. "Replenish your strength. Prepare your troops. When we face each other again, I will come to teach you what it means to be a conqueror. And I shall do it by taking your army, your kingdom and your title."

With that, the Lord of the Decepticons shifted into his vehicle mode and ignited his thrusters, blasting straight up into the sky a split-second before Assassin X's Lightning Blade would've reached him. "Damn," the Shadow Clone muttered to himself. He then gave an irked Rider a flat look. "War, not a tournament."

This unapologetic statement earned him a grumble before the Servant of the Mount eyed with some bemusement one of his partners. "I confess to being surprised you didn't do that."

Berserker X shrugged. "You're obviously interested in fighting him, and I can respect a claim like that. I've already had a good scrap with Rider X, and there are others like Goldy or Saber for me to have a good time with. Besides," he gave his usual bloodthirsty smile, "if he kills you, I'll get to fight him again."

Rider burst in laughter. "Impeccable logic! Though I have no intention of falling to his blade, Kenpachi." They shared another chuckle before he glanced to Saber X. "And you accept my claim to Megatron as well?"

He received a raised black eyebrow as an answer. "Kinda hard to argue with the guy who can sic a whole army on you whenever he feels like it." The alcoholic Servant huffed to himself with a tiny smile. "Like it wasn't hard enough before…"

Rider chuckled again before he heard a polite cough. The remnants of the banquet turned their attention collectively to its origin. "Thank you for staying a little longer, King of Conquerors," Caster X began with his usual courtesy. "There are a few things I wish to discuss with all of you."

Lancer's attention returned in full force. "Yes, you said you had something important to tell me about Archer X." Saber and Assassin X shared his attentiveness about the rogue.

The Gray Wizard shifted to his Master, his eyes asking wordlessly for permission. Kariya nodded to him, prompting him to explain. "Berserker and I came close to killing Caster earlier tonight, but your former partner, sir Lancer, intervened and carried him off."

The information stilled the six Servants before him. "Archer X… helped Caster escape?" Saber frowned. "What could she want with that madman? A new partner?"

"…Or a weapon." Lancer's mind was racing as his legs would across a battlefield. In the wake of this revelation, he decided honor dictated he return the favor. "The night Archer X murdered my lord, she also made off with her Command Seals and a form of magical technology. A… Reactor of some sort which can collect and store large quantities of mana."

Rider tilted his head quizzically. "Your Master crafted this Reactor for use in the War?"

"No, it was gifted to him by the Kaleidoscope." Everyone, Servant or not, stilled at the mention of that name. Lancer nodded in slightly shaken confirmation to them before continuing. "My lord had explained the basics behind its functioning, and Archer X seemed to believe she could use it to keep herself in this world without a Master."

"Hold up…" Berserker X crossed his arms while thinking. "Why didn't she just contract herself to Caster's Master if she wanted to stick around and work with that clown? Sure, I chopped off that little shit's hand when I left, but he might've made a contract with her. Better than using some gadget she doesn't understand." Even a brutish outsider like him knew better than to dismiss the Wizard Marshall of this world.

"Even if he had the skill to forge a contract, the one who called you and Caster into this world is dead, Berserker X," Caster X informed him. "Slain by her weapon." He nodded pointedly not towards a confused Saber, but further away among the shadows.

Lancer X stepped a second later out from her spirit form into the open. She ignored the few surprised looks she received in favor of eyeing the wizard. "How long have you known?"

"I first noticed a flicker of your presence after Berserker X showed his power. Your Presence Concealment is excellent," Caster X commended her, "but not perfect."

Tokiomi was voicing disapproval of her revealing herself, but it couldn't be helped. 'Please focus, Master. There's more to learn.' She sauntered casually over to her colleague who looked to her (ignoring the redhead's glare). "He speaks the truth, Lancer. I succeeded in killing Caster's Master, but Archer X ambushed us and then scurried off with him." Lancer X's eyes narrowed in thought. "…Though I think she wasn't pleased with her actions herself. She muttered something about this better being worth it…"

The male Lancer focused more on her (while Sola-Ui seethed silently). "You think it means she was working with someone else?" A nod. "But who else is there in this Grail War?"

"I can think of one person." Now Assassin X's double was at the center of attention. He cupped his chin before explaining his interjection. Kiritsugu may not like sharing this, but it doesn't compromise our own plans, and they ought to know. "While I was scouting earlier today, I found a spot in this city's rural area that had traces of Archer X's presence… and Rider X's." That caught everyone's attention, particularly that of the other Rider. "No signs of any conflict, either. If I had to guess, they left that place on peaceful terms."

"So, Archer X and Rider X might be in an alliance now…" Saber concluded from her friend's intel. She compared this to their prior theory of Tokiomi Tohsaka and Kirei Kotomine working together. If that were true, was the black female now part of their team now? She glanced subtly towards Lancer X; the taller, emerald-clad woman appeared genuinely taken aback at this revelation. Did she not know of Megatron's dealings? What of her Master, then? Megatron… Leader of the Decepticons… Saber's suspicions grew.

Saber X crossed his arms with a scowl. "And with Archer X snagging Caster, it sounds like your rival's putting together his own little crew," he noted to a solemn Rider.

"All the better I got rid of Assassin, then…" The King of Conquerors rumbled to himself. "One less variable or tool for Rider X to claim…" A sentiment the rest agreed with unanimously. So many Servants spying on them all the time; erasing them from the War was a relief.

With this, Caster X attempted the same plan he had believed in on Middle-Earth: unity. "In light of this information," he began, drawing their attention, "it stands to reason that we have common enemies. Enemies that may be standing together."

"And you wish for us to do the same, Gandalf the Gray?" Saber surmised. She closed her eyes in regret; it pained her to disappoint this kind fellow. "While I too would wish that we could face this threat on a united front, I fear it is not possible." She gestured to her fellow monarch. "Rider and I cannot see eye-to-eye on the ways of kingship even with your guidance, and there are… others," her breath hitched at the image of a black-enshrouded figure, "who cannot not cooperate with me."

Call it an irrational fear, but Assassin X hoped she meant Berserker and not him.

Caster X however recognized the reference to his partner and friend, as well as her trepidation. Her entire sense of belief has been called into question, and she struggles between what she thinks is best for her people and what could be best. Out loud, he said, "I respect that, King of Knights. And if this night has proven anything, none of us are willing to yield our chance for the Holy Grail." A wave of agreement rippled through his listeners. "However, perhaps we can agree to maintain the ceasefire among us until these rogues are dealt with." He stared at one particular Servant, then another. "Can two Kings stave off warring with one another to deal with a greater threat?"

The King of Knights and the King of Conquerors eyed each other for what seemed like ages before returning the wise one's gaze. "Before I agree," Iskandar held up a hand, "I insist that I be the one to deal with Rider X. This is a personal matter."

"While I cherish the idea of stepping onto the battlefield with you all as comrades, I, too, claim the right to stop Archer X," Lancer declared. "I put my own honor at stake."

Caster X wasn't one to encourage grudges, but he detected no malice in their hearts. "Does anyone object?" None of the rest said anything. Thus he nodded to them. "So be it."

Rider smiled briefly before sobering. "I have one final question for you, Mithrandir: do you take Saber's side or mine?"

"I take neither," the Istar answered immediately and truthfully. "As a Servant myself, I must oppose the both of you for the sake of my Master and the Holy Grail."

Kariya Matou discreetly wiped a tear from his eye at the loyalty his Servant showed.

Both Kings nodded stoically in acknowledgement of this truth. "And as a friend to you both," they perked up as he continued with a soft smile, "I will not choose one over the other."

They nodded again, this time with their own smiles. A touched Lancer X addressed him, "Truly the wisest Heroic Spirt of this Grail War." And the other Servants, even Berserker X in all his desire for violence, completely agreed with her assessment. None present voiced a single word of objection to the Gray Wizard's offer of a truce.

Though some received rather heavy nagging to return to their Masters. Jade assured Tokiomi that she was heading back and spun on her heel to leave. But she wasn't quite finished. "Two things before I take my leave," she intoned loudly for the rest to hear.

"While I respect Caster X's neutral stance, I personally side with the King of Knights' way to rule than with the King of Conquerors'." Saber looked to the emerald Servant's back in surprise. "I have seen enough of a conqueror's rule in my life. And as one whose own wish is to save my mother, my best friend, and the man I loved from their deaths, I respect such desires." Assassin X nodded his gratitude when she cast an eye for sincerity back to them.

"Lancer." Diarmuid blinked at being addressed. "Take this advice from one who shares your class: do not confuse obedience for loyalty." The knight frowned in confusion at her words, but rather than elaborate, the Edenian teleported from the courtyard in a burst of green mana.

Much to an agitated Sola-Ui's relief.

Rider gave a good-natured chuckle at Lancer X's leaving. "A woman of few but poignant words. Come, boy, friends." Waver found his numb body pulled along by a sympathetic Saber X; it had been an eventful night, and his young mind needed time to process the fantastic (and tragic) things he'd learned.

Iskandar mounted his chariot, the bulls huffing impatiently, and grabbed hold of the reins. "I shall honor Mithrandir's faith in me, King of Knights," he swore. "But I have not changed my opinion of your ideals or my advice to you. Think on them before our own clash."

She gazed levelly back at him without scorn or wounded pride. She simply vowed, "I shall." He actually appeared relieved to hear that as his team stepped onto the Gordius Wheel one after the other.

Save for one. "Well," Saber X snagged one last sip from the wine and made to walk off, "I'll catch you late-HEY!"

Rider reeled him in by his tattered cape with an exasperated laugh. He shut down any protests with the words, "Stop worrying about Misfortune and cherish with us the good fortune."

Credit where credit was due, Saber X still tried to protest, but a clap upside the head from a smirking Berserker X, and a tiny pat on the back from a sympathetic Waver nipped that in the bud. So, he settled for slumping in the chariot with a swig from his ever-reliable flask.

Before they left, Lancer of all people spoke up one last time. "Qrow Branwen." The addressed glanced back to his fellow knight class. "I don't know how the rules of naming work on Remnant, but your surname… if I recall correctly, it has meaning in a tongue of my home." The spearman smiled at the inquisitive look he received. "To my people, Branwen can mean 'blessed white crow.' Curious, isn't it?"

Saber X blinked at that before shaking his head with a bitter laugh. "Ironic is what it is…" A snap of the reins from Rider, a crackle of lightning and thunder, and they were off.

Four Servants, two humans and one homunculus remained now. They stared off after the divine chariot for a while before Assassin X cleared his throat. "Well if there's nothing else, shall we escort Lancer, Caster X and their Masters to the mansion's exit, Saber?"

His heart sank at her dignified, emotionless tone. "Yes, that is best, Assassin X." The King of Knights extended her arm towards the building. "If you would all follow me." The trip back to the outside was accompanied by a polite, slightly awkward silence. There was little else to be said and much to contemplate. But no more battle would be waged tonight. Not for lack of energy, mind you, but even Kiritsugu recognized that no matter who he may order his Servants to attack, the others would step in to aid. So, he grudgingly let them be. For now.

Before long, they were stepping through the hole in the front of the Einzbern mansion. Caster X murmured something to his Master who gave an affirming murmur back, then turned to the other guest Servant. "Do you and your Master require transport back to the city, Lancer?"

"The offer is appreciated, Caster X, but unnecessary," the knight declined politely. "I can transport us there myself."

Sola-Ui's heart soared at the implications. Him carrying her through the forest at night, wind rushing against her skin… held in his strong arms… gazing at his determined face…

Then she forced herself to maintain a polite smile rather than scream as he turned to that little doll of a Saber.

Lancer crossed his arm against his pectorals before bowing to her. "I thank you for your hospitality, King of Knights, reluctant though it was." He then flashed her a cocky (flirtatious?) smirk. "And regardless of your grievances with Rider, keep your sword sharp for our duel after I'm done with Archer X."

Saber returned his bow and smirk, though not as strongly as usual. "Try not to let her armor dull your spears, Diarmuid Ua Duibhne. I will accept no excuses after your defeat."

Whatever their wishes or ideals, whatever the circumstances of the greater War, both knights swore they would finish their bout with due honor.

Lancer then picked up his frowning Master who immediately softened inside the bridal carry, then sprinted into a mighty leap upwards. But while she anticipated a romantic flight, his mind flowed to… other thoughts. Some formed by the banquet. By one certain swordsman.

That left Caster X, who watched the young girl carrying the burden of a King in empathy. He still had one unanswered question, but that could wait. He would make time to unravel the riddle between his partner and her.

So, he told her, "You would have made a fine King on Middle-Earth, Saber. Perhaps as fine as the one you made in the kingdom of your time."

Saber looked at him with a face of regret. "Your counsel would've been most welcome in Camelot, Gray Wizard. Perhaps then I would not have led my kingdom to destruction."

"Your reign mightn't have been perfect, King of Knights. But that does not mean it was terrible." He leaned via his staff closer to her. "Nor does it mean your beliefs, impossible though they seem, are not worth fighting for."

He then moved away from her and towards her partner, a man nearly equal in height and shrewdness to him, yet displaying such guilt now. This one… he was of a mature mind and nurturing soul, but he would sacrifice himself without thought for those he cared for. Much like Saber in that regard. No wonder they are partners.

To him, Caster X placed a hand on his shoulder, prompting the Servant of the Shadows to reluctantly look him in the eye. "True bonds do not break so easily, Kakashi Hatake," he whispered to him. "Sometimes, a few words can mend a bridge, and the damage was lesser than it seemed at first glance." A flicker of hope sparked inside Assassin X's cloudy eye.

And so Caster X shuffled off like the old man he appeared to be while Kariya Matou shook hands in goodbye with Irisviel von Einzbern. There had never been animosity between them before, and there certainly wasn't any now. Master and Servant slipped slowly into the Toyota and drove smoothly down towards the forest's street.

Finally alone, Irisviel turned to the duo serving her husband. This truly had been a night for Heroic Spirits, and it had left its mark. Saber stared out onto the night with a faraway expression. Assassin X's clone merely stood there in such shame Irisviel's heart panged for both of them. The entire time, she hadn't been able to speak up or do anything in the presence of such powerful individuals. It pained her, this feeling of weakness. The inability to help her friends or even speak up for them. What could she say to either of these Heroic Spirits?

Finally, Kakashi squared his shoulders to face the music. "Saber, I'm sorry about-"

"I remember something you said in our first real conversation, Assassin X." Her voice was calm, now, catching him off guard. "As I recall, your words were, we differ in our view on certain topics." She turned to him with a bittersweet smile. "That doesn't mean I hate you."

Relief flooded through him at seeing the sincerity in her eyes. He sighed right through his mask. "Thank goodness…"

Irisviel found herself giggling at her friend's response. "You were that worried about her opinion of you, Assassin X? Saber is kinder than that."

He held up his hands in mock-surrender, the amusement in his body language soothing in turn the women's nerves. "Forgive me for doubting you. It's just… I've put my foot in my mouth before, and it has cost me."

"I don't think defending your own beliefs even when they differ from Saber's is 'putting your foot in your mouth'," Irisviel assured him with another giggle at the memory of another night far away, where Kiritsugu had explained quite a few metaphors to her. And when she caught him doing that particular one a few days later. Hands clasped behind her, she smiled kindly at the two Servants. "And temporarily putting Kiritsugu and my wish aside, I'm sure that you would fight now more than ever to win the Grail. Not just for yourselves, but for each other."

"Of course/Naturally."

Both Servants looked at each other before snorting at the simultaneous answers. Her humor returning, Saber fixed her grateful gaze on her partner. "You continued to have my back during the debates, Assassin X. Even when I let a minor disagreement over beliefs with you cloud my thoughts. But…" Her smile faded. "I have been given much to think about. And I am not quite as assured in my way of the King as before. I apologize if you think I blamed you for that.

"There's something else I remember through Rider and Caster X's words." She cast her gaze back out into the night. "One of my most trusted knights once said, 'the King does not understand the hearts of men,' and subsequently left Camelot." Her voice lowered, and in that moment, she seemed every bit as young and fragile as her apparent age indicated. "I can't help but wonder, Kakashi…" she faced him again. "Did the other knights of the Round Table share this sentiment?"

The clone next to her poofed out of existence, the camera and speaker mounted to it hovering for only an instant before it began to fall. And with it, some piece of herself.

Then a pair of gloved hands snatched the technology long before it hit the ground. The real Assassin X pocketed it as he stepped out of the manison before locking gazes with her. Kiritsugu had told him to head back to the hotel, but he would take the time for this, no matter what. "…I can't speak for the fabled knights of the Round Table. But I will say, King of Knights or not, King of Britain or not," he extended his open hand to her, "I couldn't think of a better comrade to have in this Holy Grail War than Artoria Pendragon."

She stared at him for the longest time, replaying those words in her head over and again, before her eyes began to glisten and the widest smile she'd ever given stretched across her lips. She grabbed hold of his hand so tightly a miniscule part of her feared she'd break it. "Naruto, Sakura, Sasuke…" she recited his students' names he'd confided to her. "They were blessed to have you as their teacher, Kakashi Hatake."

The mention of his students knocked down more than a few barriers inside Assassin X himself, but he managed to keep his composure intact (save for a tear or two that gathered inside his hidden eye). He reclaimed his (slightly bruised) hand with a humble laugh. "And yet I still hope to go back and do right by them as much as I possibly can. I'll even use the one chance I may ever get from an omnipotent wish-granting device to make it happen." He gave her a pointed look even while moving to head out for Kiritsugu. "Pretty ridiculous, don't you think?" Followed by a wink.

Saber wiped away her tears and smiled back, having understood the unspoken message. "It is absolutelyridiculous," she replied with her own wink. "As ridiculous as hoping that same device can save an entire kingdom from destruction."

The partners-no, comrades of fate shared one final happy laugh before he leaped off towards the city and she escorted Irisviel, likewise eased in mind and heart, back into the castle.

Once again, Rider X soared above the Shinto district before landing in robot form onto the roof of a taller building. Archer X's obscenity-filled assurances she'd lost Berserker rang loudly over the telepathic link of his ally and her new Master, but it was of second interest now. Truly, this had been a most eventful night, with more information in his grasp now than he could've dreamed. Oh, there were some details that made him grow warier around certain individuals: Saber X's erratic Misfortune, Berserker X being even stronger than he'd gauged after their first battle, whatever Caster X actually was…

But he found new interest in two particular Servants: Saber, the little knightly girl killing herself with her impossible righteous standards; and Rider, with his hopelessly romanticized view of conquest. Those two each had certain qualities… her ingrained, self-destructive devotion to justice… his charismatic belief that his followers gave him his strength…

It was like they were decomposites of an old, dear enemy of Megatron. The eternal foe standing between him and dominion over the universe. He sighed to himself almost wistfully. Ah, Optimus… if you are not somewhere in the Throne of Heroes, then it knows not the meaning of the word.

The Cybertronian Heroic Spirit shook his head. Even if he couldn't enjoy a good clash with Optimus like in life, there were other ways to amuse himself. His thoughts trailed off to a certain desert, thousands and thousands of soldiers in rows, their King riding in front… Were he a disgusting human, Rider X would've salivated at the anticipation of tearing Ionian Hetairoi asunder. All in good time, he assured himself. All in good time.

He stood ruminating atop that building for a while before asking out loud, "How many of you are left?"

"Ten," Macour the Quick replied as he appeared from a flash of darkness. "Sixty-two of our number were butchered by Rider's Noble Phantasm. The survivors are stretched thin across the city, where no one can detect us." The slender dark man stepped without a single sound to his partner's side. "As I understand, we have you to thank for our continued existence."

"Our Master is the one responsible for that," the tyrant waved off his gratitude. "I merely gave him a little advice."

There were two reasons Rider X had not taken greater part in tearing down Saber's ideals, fun though that would've been. For one, he enjoyed watching Rider take up that responsibility for himself. But more importantly, he received a mental message from Kirei which required his attention. Tokiomi had wanted his pupil to send all of the Hassan's out into the open and bait at least one of the Servants into showing their full power. And Kirei had spontaneously decided to let his other Servant know in advance. It hadn't been up for debate.

Or, that was what he'd claimed. Rider X saw the hidden request for help despite his near raging at such a stupid maneuver. 'Would you truly inform me of Tokiomi's plan like this,' he had said at the time, 'if you didn't harbor your own doubts?'

With a little more prodding, Kirei decided to use one Command Seal the way he'd been instructed… and subsequently use a second to have ten amongst the remaining seventy-two personalities of Hundred-Faces Hassan disregard the previous order and stay hidden. Any more, and they'd have risked Lancer X or Archer (if he'd been attentive enough to keep track of their numbers) growing suspicious.

Either way, the bulk of Assassins were now gone. Slain amidst the sand of Rider's secret weapon. But the Servant of Assassination wasn't completely gone just yet.

One surviving Hassan now stood next to his partner, admiring the stars above. "But why convince our Master to spare us?"

"Good spies are a valuable resource in a War," Rider X indirectly praised him and his others. "An entire network of them, even more so. You do not sacrifice it on a suicide mission." He growled quietly. "Leave it to that little aristocratic dimwit to be so wasteful playing strategist…" Macour wisely chose to say nothing about his partner's distaste for Tokiomi Tohsaka.

But Megatron didn't fixate on this tactical blunder. He understood well that Tohsaka being so quick to have Kirei sacrifice his intended Servant meant that his own time in the mage's plan was nearing its end. Rider X would soon no longer be of use to him. So, I'll have to move up the timeline for my own plans. 

The numbers of the Hassan's had already been stretched exceedingly thin as it was. The remaining ten could only monitor so much even if acting solo. But Rider X had made do with less in the past, and Tohsaka's tactic, stupidly shortsighted though it was, provided an opportunity: the other Servants and Masters believed for sure now that Assassin was completely dead. Including Tohsaka himself.

"So, partner…" Not to mention the remnants wouldn't be carrying any loyalty left for the patriarch after what he'd pulled. "What's our next step?"

Rider X smiled down at him. "For now, patience, my friend. Unless our Master says otherwise, you and the rest should continue spying as much as you can. Focus on targets like Rider, Saber and Assassin X but stay in the shadows. Do not let anyone catch sight of you under any circumstances. Especially Archer or Lancer X."

Macour nodded in comprehension. The former was of mercurial temperament, but the latter would surely report such a discovery to Tohsaka. And if he caught wind of this deception too soon, the punishment could be severe and unavoidable.

"Oh, and make sure Archer X doesn't attract more attention than she can handle."

This drew a sigh from Assassin, but he agreed, nonetheless. "Very well. What about you?"

Megatron sauntered along the roof in a rather good mood. "I'll be busy arranging the preparations for what's to come." He then assumed Alt-Mode Starship and soared off. His destination, a certain manor in Miyama Town with a veryspooky basement.