Chapter 252 - 18

Chapter 18: Recuperation

-72:02:34

Heroic Spirit Artoria Pendragon stood guard as ever in the shed. Though she had since returned to wearing the black suit while hurriedly ferrying Irisviel back to their safehouse, she had done nothing but remained at her post, watching over her friend's prone body that she and Kakashi's clone had laid down inside the glowing Magic Circle.

The Shadow Clone of her comrade had set up a few additional security measures around the estate before dispersing about three hours ago, leaving the two women alone. Saber wasn't bothered by this, though, both she and Assassin X needed some time to regain their expended energy. It also helped that there seemed to have been no further battles in the prior night, neither elsewhere in the city nor at the residence. Their base of operations, it seemed, had yet to be discovered.

Irisviel had yet to do anything, though, save for some twitching and disturbed sounds she had given in the last couple minutes. This lack of activity had left Saber with little to do other than think.

She had thought about the destruction of Caster and his monster, about Rider X's withstanding her unveiled sword. She had thought about what move the tyrant might make next after losing one of his pawns and another nearly perishing only an hour later.

She had thought about the end to her and Lancer's duel, about how they had barely managed to settle it somewhat honorably. She had thought about Archer X's breakdown upon witnessing her former partner's death by Saber's blade and what it may mean next.

She had thought about Berserker assailing her at Mion River, about that burning howl of her True Name, the final proof she needed to realize who he was. She had thought about the knight behind the darkness and what sin she may've inflicted upon him to be the target for his hatred.

She had thought about the dispute between her and Assassin X and their Master. She had thought about how frustrating it was to try and understand Kiritsugu Emiya with his deceitful strategies and cold-hearted image under which an unexpectedly utopian wish blazed.

She had thought about the things Kiritsugu had said of her partner, about the moments Kakashi must've endured (so young, too…) to become the Heroic Spirit he was now.

She had thought about Irisviel's condition, about whatever sickness she may be suffering under that required her to slumber inside this circle of Thaumaturgy. She had thought about the possibility of her friend's weakening being tied to an emotional turmoil.

…It had been a long night.

"Mhhmmm…"

Saber hadn't been so caught up in her musings that she'd failed to notice that sound. She turned away from the door and down towards the Magic Circle. "Irisviel." Sure enough, the slight shift in that murmur indicated the wife of her Master was awakening.

The homunculus' red eyes fluttered open slowly to find the Servant of the Sword she'd befriended kneeling before the Magic Circle. "Saber." She smiled as reassuringly as she could while her limbs woke up, too.

Saber asked, "How are you feeling?" tentatively as she reached out her right hand.

Irisviel accepted it with a grateful nod. "I'm much better now, thank you." Saber would've disputed that claim, but as she gently pulled the white-haired into a sitting position, the morning sunlight through the shed's skylight illuminated a face with healthy color and no trace of sweat. Irisviel's voice was stronger than the trembling whisper of last night, and her grip was… well, not strong, but stronger. No signs of the near coma she'd just awoken from.

Then again, Saber noticed something flickering in her eyes. "Pardon me, Irisviel, but it seemed to me you were a bit restless in your last minutes of sleep. Is something bothering you?"

"N-not really," she replied even as she frowned to herself. "I think I had… a dream… of someone…" She shivered at a strange chill that crept through her. "Or something…" She rubbed her arms while staring down at the shimmering lines of her Magic Circle before finally shaking her head. "But I can't remember for the life of me what it was."

Irisviel sighed to herself before giving a guilty smile. "It must have slipped my mind while I was waking up. Sorry if I made you and Assassin X worry."

"No need to apologize," Saber assured her before adding, "and even if he's not here right now, I'm sure Assassin X would say the same." She quickly sent a telepathic message to him and Kiritsugu while she continued. "Are you sure, though, that you needn't rest any longer?"

"I'm sure," Irisviel said quietly but resolute. "I have no intention of being a burden to you or the others. Besides, as a homunculus, I naturally understand my own body and can determine its performance much more clearly than an average human. My senses are like the warning signals of a car when something malfunctions."

The analogy didn't sit well with Saber, but she felt a presence while Irisviel straightened (she received a warning from the Bounded Field), and a different voice slipped in before she could speak her mind. "I know you have a fascination with cars, Irisviel," Assassin X noted as he opened the entrance, "but comparing yourself to a machine instead of a living being…" he waved his hand in a so-so manner while walking in. "I don't like that way of thinking much."

Both women smiled in greeting to their friend before the King of Knights spoke her mind. "Neither do I, Irisviel. We've never considered you anything less than human, so please don't do yourself that disservice."

She glanced between the Heroic Spirits before releasing a good-natured sigh in defeat. "My, sometimes I'm amazed by how gentle either of you can be." She then eyed the newcomer quizzically. "On a somewhat related note, Assassin X, are you…?"

"A Shadow Clone?" The duplicate familiar gave his eye-smile to show he wasn't offended. "Yes, I am. I was dispatched alongside Maiya so we can meet up with you ladies, and that was before Saber told me you were awake again. The original me still ought to be by Kiritsugu's side." And tiptoeing around him, he added to himself. Ever since the pragmatic man had woken up this morning, he had kept giving Assassin X strange looks. Kind of like the ones Maiya was still shooting him.

And he was frankly still processing what he had witnessed of his Master's life himself...

He cleared his throat and thumbed behind him. "Maiya's unloading something from the truck right now, said it could prove helpful."

"You aren't helping her?"

"I offered," Kakashi shrugged in response to Saber's query, "but she assured me -rather strongly, I may add- that she could handle it herself. Far be it from me to insult a woman's pride."

"Wars have been waged for less," Artoria nodded with a slight grin that drew laughs from both of her friends. The mirthful sounds made her wonder When was the last time I made a joke? Certainly not during her time as Britain's King… but even before then, had she ever really laughed and played with other children?

She couldn't remember. It can't be helped. I needed to be prepared for when my time to draw Caliburn came. Another sacrifice to become the perfect King.

No sooner had she thought that than did the words of another arise as a riposte: "All ways of kingship inherently carry flaws." Saber could almost see that elderly wizard sitting in front of her, his patient, gentle eyes gazing into hers. "No King is, was or will ever be truly perfect."

If Saber had heard these statements in the first few moments after her summoning, she may have deemed them as outrageous as Rider's denunciations. But that was before she had grown to know the man who was Caster X for this Grail War. Before he had stopped Berserker- …Lancelot from hounding her no less than three times and encouraged her to reflect more on her choices.

Not to mention all this time she'd spent with the shinobi that was her partner. Lancer may've had a point last night about Assassin X's presence having influenced her. It didn't bother her really, though. If anything, she felt a little… relaxed. She was starting to see why Merlin had been so mischievous most of the time.

That said… There were some topics she couldn't will away with a quip. Saber closed her eyes and shook her head as last night's many ruminations rumbled about inside her brain. When she opened them again, she found Assassin X giving her a sympathetic and slightly guilty look. "Long night for you, huh?"

His question made Irisviel dip her head in shame, but Saber quickly assured both, "Please, standing guard was no trouble at all. I honestly could've held my post for an entire week seeing as Servants don't need to sleep."

"So, you didn't even take a power nap? My oh my, I'm humbled just being in your presence, King of Knights." Kakashi's quip kept the trace of levity in the air while he noted to himself, She didn't have those dreams, then…

Saber waved off his teasing praise before continuing. "Even without trouble from other Servants, I had plenty of thinking to occupy my time with." An understatement, but they all understood.

Irisviel sat on her knees inside the circle, drumming her fingers against the dress. She could tell both Servants looked a little tense, and it wasn't hard to discern it was due to last night's argument. Where the man she loved had shown them all just how far he was willing to go to achieve his dream. A dream Irisviel still shared, but his coldness had still rattled him.

"U-Um…" Which is why she had to ask her next question. "Saber, Assassin X, I know we had a similar conversation in the Einzbern home, but… in light of everything that has transpired since then…" She lifted her head to have both of them in her sights. "Can you still consider Kiritsugu a comrade to fight with?"

Neither said nor moved from their respective spots, then Saber finally hummed in thought. "Normally, I would want nothing to do with a man like him or his methods," she began in a rather bitter tone. "Especially because I suspect he would use even more treacherous actions if he felt he had no other options." And if he didn't have a Servant like Kakashi at his disposal, she added to herself.

Irisviel's anxiety grew; she knew she couldn't fault Saber and her dedication to chivalry for this disapproval. Kiritsugu had predicted their incompatibility from the beginning- "…But I have come to understand the benefit of compromise and its necessity. Especially in a situation like ours." She stared at the knightly Servant in surprise and hope, as did Assassin X on a slightly lesser level. "Besides, I believe Kiritsugu is sincere in his wish to save this world. That is one I have no objections to seeing come true," Saber's eyes narrowed, "especially if the alternative is someone like Rider X or Archer claiming the Grail."

A fair point, the homunculus granted. Regardless of the tension between them, Artoria Pendragon, Kakashi Hatake, and Kiritsugu Emiya could surely agree on keeping a device as powerful as the Holy Grail out of the wrong hands.

"Therefore, I have no issue with being his sword to win it," Saber concluded earnestly, receiving a relieved smile from Irisviel. "Though I would strongly prefer my partner and I to be his only weapons." She turned pointedly to Assassin X. "And I hope he doesn't force you to aid him in his skullduggery beyond what your conscience can endure."

Assassin X replied with a weary shrug, "My conscience has developed a certain tolerance for morally grey actions." Now he had become the main focus, and for good reason. As Irisviel had learned, this otherworldly warrior valued teamwork and solidarity on an equal level as his partner did honor and valor. He would never turn his back on a comrade… but what if someone he had thought to be a comrade proved unworthy of this virtue? What then?

Saber appeared to share her concerns. "You argued rather heatedly with Kiritsugu yourself last night, Kakashi. Even though you have a better grip on your temper than me. Considering you've spent the most time with him, has he exhausted your patience?"

But he merely scratched the back of his head. "Don't worry, Artoria, I'm not thinking about switching sides. Not after all we've been through together. Kiritsugu's words did admittedly hit a few sore spots, and I can't say that I agree with all of his beliefs… but I can't really be angry with him either." Not after what I learned of him, he said only in his mind.

Confusion flickered across Saber's face, but he simply said, "I know he's been pushed to the breaking point far too many times in his life. It's no surprise he lost his faith in… traditional heroism." He returned her stare with a silent message she understood. "And I've been where he is." Though it pained Kakashi to dance around the truth with her, he didn't have the right to discuss Kiritsugu's life behind his back. That she had to learn for herself first.

Irisviel, however, wondered if the Servant had just implied what she was thinking. She'd read of Masters being able to see their Servants' dreams, but Servants seeing their Masters'? Has he seen Kiritsugu's? Her eyes met his, and he nodded once before going on. "Honestly, if you'd met me at an earlier time of my life, I'm pretty sure both of you'd have mistaken me for Kiritsugu. Which is why I will continue to stand by his side and yours." He stared at both women for the last two words. "I suppose it's kind of a way for me to atone for who I was."

Reassured though she had felt knowing that they still had the skilled Servant and good man on their side, that last sentence troubled Irisviel. Saber, too, judging by her expression, so she chose to press on. "Kakashi…" The shinobi shifted towards her from where he had leaned himself against the wall. "Is what Kiritsugu said about you true? Did you really go to war… when you were only a child?"

Assassin X slumped by his spot a bit but answered all the same. "Sort of. Kiritsugu was right about the Third Great Shinobi War occurring during my childhood, but I had already been training to be a ninja years before it actually began."

"You said that in our first conversation," Saber recalled, watching her partner intently. "And you've repeatedly affirmed that it was your own choice, not because the Leaf Village forced you to." She herself had been preparing for her destiny as King of Britain since she'd been a little "boy," but while she had chosen to follow it through, the path had been admittedly laid out for her. "If I may ask, though, whydid you choose the life of a shinobi?"

"Mostly because of my father." His words carried a sentimental hue. "Sakumo Hatake was a powerful and intelligent protector of the Leaf Village. He was known and feared across the lands as 'the White Fang' due to his skill with his chakra sabre." He flashed a wry grin at the now more attentive Heroic Spirit of the Sword. "And he was a great father. With my mother having died when I was young, I practically worshipped him and leaped at the chance to follow in his footsteps. Not to pat myself on the back, but I did fairly well. Many told me I'd inherited my father's genius."

Saber echoed his smirk. "I've heard similar comments about my determination stemming from my father." But my strength, according to Merlin, came from a Dragon. Then she noticed her friend's gaze dipping. "Did your father die in battle?"

"Not quite," Assassin X sighed. "While I was still a student, he was part of a team assigned to an extremely crucial mission for our home. The mission didn't go well, and my father had to make a choice: complete the mission at the cost of his comrades, or save their lives but lose the only window of opportunity they had. He chose the latter."

Irisviel smiled sadly, in no small part because she sensed what her love would've decided in Sakumo's place. "I think I see where you got your creed from, Assassin X. You must've been proud of him."

But her words only made him deflate even more. "I am now…" he replied, hanging his head in remorse. "But back then… you have to understand, Irisviel, the land our village belonged to was in a precarious state at the time. Abandoning that mission caused severe casualties in its aftermath, and my father was denounced for the choice he made. The villagers, his colleagues, even the ones he'd saved that day… they all blamed him."

Something inside Saber seethed at this tale. An entire village slandering one of their finest warriors for one failed mission? One who had rescued his fellow shinobi only to be shunned by them?! How could this cruelty possibly be justified?! She would've never allowed such-

…Except… she remembered her own time as King, where even when she strove to address every problem and confront every danger with impartial justice… Even when she had cast aside any semblance of a normal life… Even then… "The king does not understand the hearts of men."

She suppressed a sigh as her chivalrous anger dimmed. People did not always act logically or fair. Especially when they were undergoing difficult times. And like Kakashi had pointed out not long ago, she had no right to judge another world's village for their decisions.

Kakashi… Dear Lord… "What… happened to your father?" Artoria asked, part of her already knowing the answer. And another part resenting herself for asking anyway.

But her partner was too kind a man to direct any anger at her. Instead, he continued gazing down at the ground. "All the shaming and disgrace… It wore him down in body and spirit. Eventually he couldn't bear it anymore and…" He sucked in a deep breath, trying desperately not to let his thoughts drift back to that morning. It didn't work. "…He took his own life."

Irisviel covered her mouth with both hands, trying hard not to let the sob escape her. Even with the mask and headband hiding so much, the pain in Assassin X's posture was practically tangible. Saber had folded her arms, the fabric of her sleeves nearly tearing under her grip.

Neither was willing to shed their tears; the pride of Heroic Spirits, perhaps. "You were still a child then…" So, she cried for them. "I'm sorry… I'm so sorry…"

"P-please don't cry, Irisviel. It's not your fault." Assassin X could feel his heart twisting itself into a knot as he saw the tears along her cheeks. He quickly pulled a handkerchief from his pocket and knelt down next to her. She took the offered cloth and began dabbing at her eyes while he let out another sigh. "Still, thank you for being so sympathetic for my father."

Saber frowned at her partner. "Why do you phrase it like you deserve none? Irisviel's right, you couldn't have been that old when he passed. No child should feel guilty about mourning the loss of a parent, no matter what life they've chosen."

Patting Irisviel's shoulder gently, he released another sigh, but this one was laced with guilt. "I didn't exactly mourn back then, Artoria." He wearily turned his head towards her. "In fact, I considered him a fool for what he'd done. Seeing as Father had disregarded the rules and suffered for it, I swore then that I would always follow the rules.

"And a fundamental rule for us shinobi is to 'kill' our emotions." Kakashi's double gave first Saber then Irisviel telling glances as he elaborated. "It's because emotions tend to compromise judgement, which in turn can lead to failure." Sure enough, Saber caught on, and so did Irisviel as they continued to listen. "The most important thing for a shinobi is to be a tool that completes the mission." Assassin X recited the words he'd told Obito long ago, though this time, they lacked the matter-of-fact conviction he had then. "Emotions are unimportant." He shook his head. "And that's what I vowed on my father's grave to become: an unfeeling tool of the Village Hidden in the Leaves. No matter the mission. Or the cost."

Irisviel had managed to rein in her tears, but the sorrow at hearing these words remained. I've heard this before… she thought. Different words, but the same in meaning. They had come from Kiritsugu more than once, little confessions he had made after he had grown closer to the homunculus she had been. Sometimes he had wept them while they had laid in bed together, held in her arms as she hoped to comfort him.

As for Artoria, she too recognized an echo in what Kakashi was saying now to what Kiritsugu had said last night. It may've been an elaborate lie to gain sympathy, something their Master had instigated to make them fall in line… but that would be too convoluted, and Saber knew her comrade well enough by now to recognize the truth when it left his mouth.

And after hearing these words of discarding emotions… of being a simple, inhuman tool to see one's goals through… She couldn't help but ask herself Was I any different? "When you become a King, you cease to be a regular human being."She had proclaimed this belief only two nights ago. Before another King, his subject, a wizard, and her own comrade had challenged it.

Finally, she said, "You sought to be a hidden blade wielded in the shadows for the sake of your home, Assassin X, in part perhaps to redeem your father's perceived disgrace."

He nodded his head slowly. "That may have played a deciding factor, yes." Then he realized her implications. "Just as you sought to be a shining symbol of righteousness and justice in service to your kingdom, huh?"

Saber returned the nod with a sad smile. "A tool as well, one might say." She paused. "Though I was taught to envision myself as a sword. Or a shield."

"I gathered that much from your spectacular lightshow last night. Very subtle, by the way." That drew a laugh from all three, finally easing the mood just a bit.

Irisviel in particular felt her spirits rising again because she understood from Assassin X's story and Saber's reply that they both had sympathy for her husband and truly sought to continue standing by his side. And she, too, knew a little about what they had meant. "I, too, am a tool," she told them. "Literally made for the coming of the Holy Grail."

It seemed, though, that the Heroic Spirits had misunderstood her indirect confession. "Right, we were told your mission is to protect its vessel," Assassin X recalled. "But I think we've already established you're as much as a person and comrade in our eyes as the rest of us."

Well, Irisviel had been told not to divulge her true role to these two. The real reason her body was steadily weakening. Her final fate.

So with a slightly heavier heart, she changed topics slightly. "It sounds like you're no longer holding yourself to that vow anymore, Kakashi." She giggled while shifting at her spot. "I take it something changed your mind and made you the quick-witted, loyal hero you are today?"

The Copy Ninja tilted his head slightly, a sad smile underneath his mask. "Actually, it was someone. That's another story, though, and I feel like we've had enough drama for one morning." He pushed up his headband to reveal the Sharingan. "For now, let's just say the same friend who gifted me this eye gave me one heck of a wake-up call, too." He slid it back into place while mumbling, "Every time I fall into darkness, someone comes along to snap me out of it…"

He almost seemed to have forgotten he wasn't alone. Saber chose not to press him for any more details; she and Irisviel trusted he would tell them if the time felt right. But she did want some clarification on one detail. "Did you change your mind about your father as well?"

He nodded. "With everything I've experienced, I can't hold his decisions against him. I want to apologize to him, tell him I am proud to be the son of the White Fang, but…"

"…But you need to save your wish for returning to your students," Saber concurred, earning another nod from him. She, too, had more than one regret in her life. Some of which related to her own failings as a "father." But she had to keep her home's salvation as her first priority.

…Maybe I really am no better than Kiritsugu Emiya.

Rather than dwell on that, though, Artoria settled for a benign smile. "Regardless of his alleged failings, Sakumo Hatake would have been welcome in Britain. As would his son."

Kakashi's hidden smile widened at her promise, and he rose to his full height to shake her offered hand. "I'm sure it would've been a pleasure and an honor for both."

As they finished the handshake, a light knock came from the shed's door. The trio turned to see Maiya slipping quietly inside, but only Irisviel and Assassin X smiled in greeting to her. Saber was… neutral about the woman. She was a little too comfortable with carrying out Kiritsugu's dirty business, but she never showed pride or joy in it. And Assassin X had vouched for her reliability as well. So, a good ally, but not someone she'd sit and chat with.

Maiya Hisau was of similar mind towards the King of Knights, and Irisviel von Einzbern was someone she had to protect for Kiritsugu's sake. The only male in this storeroom, though… she didn't really know what to think of him. The Servant Assassin X had contributed to the team's efforts in more ways anyone could've imagined. It was probably thanks to him that they could even be considered a "team" in the first place. His lessons about jutsu would've made any average magus drool, the hound pack he and now three others could summon bettered the odds further (…and are irresistibly adorable, Maiya silently admitted to herself). Logically, she should've been satisfied with them simply being on the same side.

Then why did she keep paying more attention to him with each passing day? Why had she grown accustomed to these little kindnesses he showed her as well as the others? Why had she replayed what Kiritsugu had said about Kakashi over and over again?

Why had she stood just outside the door the whole time, listening to him tell of his past? It must've taken a lot out of him, Maiya surmised as she briefly glanced towards the silver-haired man; he seemed to have not noticed her presence. That… stung. Her not interrupting could've been a simple courtesy… but she'd never been one to let politeness trump practicality. So, why had she fixated so much on the tragic tale she'd lost track of time?

Just because their childhoods (or lack thereof) were a littlesimilar…

…Irrelevant. They had more important matters to deal with. "Saber." The Servant turned her attention to her, which in turn helped her focus. "You have an important assignment today."

Saber blinked in confusion as she noticed a little glint in her partner's eye. "Very well," she probed cautiously. "What am I expected to do?"

Maiya stepped sideways and nodded wordlessly towards the door before walking out of the shed, the rest following suit. She noted along with the Servants that Irisviel didn't show any difficulty keeping pace, then continued. "Seeing as you can drive the Mercedes easily, we've brought something Kiritsugu thought would suit you better for combat."

"Oh?" Now she was curious. With her Riding Skill at A-rank, she could theoretically master any vehicle on the planet. But what could Kiritsugu possibly have in mind? He knew as well as she did ordinary armaments were useless against Servants, assuming they weren't empowered by magecraft or an ability like Bers- Lancelot's. It was why Saber had disregarded an earlier joke from Irisviel about having her pilot a tank (tempting though that might've been).

Then she recalled Assassin X saying Maiya was unloading something… Something she apparently didn't need his help with… And Saber had snuck a peek in some of Irisviel's magazines…

Next to her, Assassin X stifled a laugh. She looks like a kid about to walk into a candy store. It amused and relieved him to see how underneath the dignified poise and incredible willpower, Artoria Pendragon still carried a few human, decidedly youthful traits.

Like the way her eyes sparkled with excitement upon seeing what was parked before her.

A sleek motorcycle in colors of silver and black stood in the yard. Unlike others of its kind, though, Saber sensed something different as she stepped closer. Probing the metal with her fingers told her it was more reinforced than a regular vehicle. The mechanics seemed bigger as well, more pronounced. Its engine was still shut off, but she swore she could hear a hum emanating from it that enticed her. YAMAHA was emblazoned in sliver on the fuel tank's side just under where the passenger would sit. Where shewould sit.

She hadn't even realized she was slipping onto the seat, her hands already wrapped around the handles, until her ears picked up something jingling. She blinked before snapping her head up to Maiya, an ignition key between her fingers.

"The Yamaha V-Max," the dark-haired woman dubbed it with a raised eyebrow. "Kiritsugu had me arrange for this prop before you came-" Then she registered her fingers no longer holding the key. "…To Fuyuki."

Saber had already inserted the key and turned it, drawing a smooth rumble from the engine. A rumble that sounded much like the purr of a lion: Low and fierce, ready to pounce. "Yes…" she murmured in a near trance while stroking the side. "I believe I can work well with him."

Irisviel's hands covered her mouth once again, but this time, it was to hold back giggles, not sobs. Her shoulders shook from her efforts while Assassin X, too, let a chuckle or two escape his mask. "Ah, young love," he quipped. Saber didn't even try to glare at him for that remark because it could've been very bloody well true.

Even Maiya was having a hard time fighting back a grin, but it passed when she remembered an important detail. "Before you go practicing, Saber," the Servant's nigh pout slipped away when she and the others saw her expression. "I picked up some chatter through my familiars. There was a development at the Church last night."

"Murdered?!"

Lancer X and Archer observed their Master forcibly returning to his seat his outrage still visible. "How can this be?!" Tokiomi glared down at his desk as though it were responsible for yet another massive upset to his plans. "Who would want Father Risei dead?"

"Well, there are quite a few suspects out-"

"Yes, I am quite aware." Tokiomi swallowed in an attempt to suppress his temper and glanced up to his student on the other side of his desk. "Apologies, Kirei, I shouldn't waste our time with a rhetorical question." He drummed an aggressive rhythm on the wood with his fingers. "The most likely culprit is Rider X or one of his lackies. Making sure none of the Masters can restock their Command Seals." He knew he should've gone to the church and collected them when he had the chance, but his thoughts had been so rattled by Kariya and Caster X's… revelations that he'd merely headed home and… and… done nothing but think. "This cannot be excused!" He slammed his fist against the armrest, furious at his own carelessness and at that thrice-damned alien.

He then felt a presence draw closer to his side. "Forgive me if I sound indifferent, Kirei," Jade began, "but do you know what became of your father's Command Seals? Is there a way for you to recover them?"

The priest shook his head, a sliver of regret on his otherwise unemotional mien. "Unfortunately, the overseer of the Holy Grail War carries the unused Seals through special restrictions and has express instructions not to divulge them under normal circumstances. I found no signs of tampering with his…" he sucked in a quick breath before continuing, "body after death, so there is a fair chance they have simply returned to the Holy Grail, and from there, it's nearly impossible for us to claim them."

Perhaps only Zouken Matou would know how, he conceptualized them in the first place… Tokiomi surmised bitterly; he would've been reluctant to request aid from the rival house's head even before last night's revelations. With what he knew now…

Meanwhile, his foreign Servant stared wordlessly at Kirei for the longest time before asking, "Couldn't we just settle the issue with Rider X once and for all? You carry his final Command Seal, don't you, Kirei?"

"Rider X is… far cleverer than I had realized when I summoned him." He solemnly clasped his hands before him, left hand over the right one. The three opposite from him could clearly see its bare skin. "He's somehow gained a new ally and access to a source of mana not mine." Kirei shook his head. "I'm afraid Megatron is acting outside of my power now."

Archer's lip quirked, but he said nothing. Lancer X by contrast narrowed her eyes at her ally. "You seem impressively composed despite these proceedings, Kirei Kotomine," she noted. "Rider X beyond your control, your father killed not even a night ago, both developments possibly connected…" Her right hand's fingers curled. "Yet you show not a hint of worry."

Kirei met her gaze without fear or even a hint of worry. "I am well aware of the situation, Lancer X, and frankly, I'm surprised at myself, too." His sight traveled down to his hands even as his brow furrowed. "I thought I would be… devastated over my father's murder… heartbroken… but my limbs move steady as rocks. It doesn't make sense…" Then he returned to the Servant's visibly suspicious eyes. "And let me be clear, Rider X has been operating independently from my authority since the beginning. I don't know what he's planning or where he is right now, but what I do know is none of us can afford negligence with him anymore." He snapped his arm out with one last phrase. "He is the most dangerous Servant in this Holy Grail War."

"…On that, we agree," she replied. But she didn't let him out of her sight.

If she had, though, she might've noticed Gilgamesh stifling a laugh.

"That's enough, Jade," Tokiomi snapped at her, drawing everyone's attention. "Loathe as I am to admit it, I as well underestimated Rider X too much. If he has freed himself of his contract to Kirei, then it's no wonder he cut down Risei without trouble. Kirei is clearly in shock over finding his father dead. You of all people should realize the difficulty with processing the loss of a parent."

The Edenian glanced between her Master and the man who had been their ally since before the beginning of the Grail War, visibly mulling over Tokiomi's words. Finally, she inclined her head. "…Very well. Forgive my insensitivity, Kirei Kotomine."

"Do not worry," the now ex-Master answered, closing his eyes. "We have all gone through a trying night, and it is only natural to be cautious."

The Tohsaka patriarch drew in a breath through his nose before releasing some of the tension that had gathered since... When he addressed Kirei again, he'd regained his usual calm voice. "I understand losing your father like this must be difficult for you, especially so soon after your wife's passing."

"…It is."

"Father Risei had been a strong parental figure for me as well," Tokiomi sympathized with his disciple. Sadly, they had no time to spare in mourning. "All of this has happened outside of my predictions, and it means we shall have to adapt accordingly. And quickly if we are to have any hope for victory left."

He placed both elbows onto the desk and clasped his hands before him. "I want you, Kirei, to remain at the church for now. Continue searching, it may be possible that another Master was involved with this debacle or your father may've left you a way to inherit his Seals. Please notify me immediately if you find anything of the like."

"Very well, sir." At times like this, he admired his student's ability to keep his mind sharp no matter the situation.

"Lancer X," his fr-Servant moved into view, "double your efforts in finding Rider X. He has long since outlived whatever usefulness he had. If you happen across Archer X or this Avenger X, all the better." His fingers tightened around each other. "Best case scenario, we can wipe out all three of them in one decisive blow."

Jade appeared as though she had something else on her mind. And he'd grown familiar enough to have a good idea of what it might be. 'Once these two are gone,' he told her telepathically.

'Alright,' was her answer. He then rose from his chair to bow before his other Servant. "My King, I hope there ought to be one or two enemies in this War you deem worthy of your efforts. Perhaps you would wish to remain here and await Lancer X's findings. Then you can lay your judgement upon all of our adversaries."

Archer's smile widened marginally. "The mongrels conjured up for the Holy Grail are by large not worth my time… but there are a handful I may not regret encountering." He flicked his hand in dismissal as his body began to evanesce. "Do as you will, Tokiomi."

"My deepest gratitude, oh King." Tokiomi looked forward to when he'd be holding the Holy Grail in his hands for many reasons. A big one currently was his back grumbling from the constant bowing. He ignored it in favor of shifting towards the other man in the room. "Thank you for coming, Kirei. Continue as we discussed, but I won't begrudge you if you wish for time to mourn." He owed his faithful disciple that much.

Kirei nodded respectfully to his teacher and the Servants before taking his leave. He opened the door and stepped out of the office before closing it with a final gesture in goodbye. He then walked along the halls, keeping his eyes straight ahead. No matter how much they wanted to glance down at his hands.

He registered a presence upon reaching the end of the hall. "So, the upstart slipped free of your grip, Kirei?" Archer sparkled into being right behind him, leaning nonchalantly against the wall. "He truly is a wily one." His smirk hadn't left his face. "And it seems you've picked up a few of his traits."

"It is as I said." Kirei didn't turn to face him even when he replied, but the onetime tyrant of Uruk let such rudeness slide. "I sense Rider X has discovered a source of mana and tapped into it, thereby freeing himself of his dependence on me. And he's always acted in his own interests ever since I first summoned him. Much like you, Archer." Partially because he could detect a tiny grin in those words while he lifted his left hand again. "Annulling our contract is undoubtably something Megatron would plan."

Gilgamesh's eyes gleamed as he glared at that raised hand… beholding the three Command Seals hidden underneath a special makeup. He stifled a chortle rising inside his throat. "Your wordplay has improved, Kirei," he praised. "Though I wonder, what other little truths lay hidden by your words?"

"I assure you, I didn't speak a single lie to your Master or your partner."

The Servant's smirk widened. "Speak one, no…" He tilted his head. "…But it seems over the course of this War you have evolved in not only words but flesh and blood as well. Tell me, what did your father think of the progress you made before he perished?"

Kirei Kotomine stiffened slightly at the indirect accusation. "…Regrettably, he took such thoughts with him to his grave." Then he marched on without another word.

The King of Heroes shook his head with a wry chuckle before fading away, and the hall became empty.

Meanwhile, Lancer X had moved to the front of her Master's desk so they could converse properly. Hood pulled back and mask removed so he could see her frown clear as day, she braced an arm against her hip while watching him intently. "So, what comes next?"

Tokiomi hadn't retaken his seat but instead walked towards the office window. "I believe we've already discussed our next moves for the time being, Lancer X. Or are you having difficulties with hearing all of a sudden?"

"Perhaps I have," her usual wit was laced with a sharpness, "though I worry that you in turn seem to have developed a faulty memory. Or have you forgotten last night's revelations?"

His right fist clenched audibly.

"I thought not," Jade pressed on. "I understand Kariya and Caster X's words may've been harrowing to hear, but even if you believe them to be lies-"

"I don't," Tokiomi interrupted while staring out into the courtyard. "I have analyzed the situation from every direction imaginable, evaluated my prior knowledge of the Matou family and their decline… and even if Kariya blatantly wants my head on a spit, I don't doubt his words or the Gray Wizard's." The latter had nullified his magecraft so seamlessly, he could've killed him in an instant. Instead, he had merely listened and spoken.

His Servant remained taut, though, as she continued. "And I have guarded you without fail throughout the night so you can process these words in hopes of you coming to terms with all of this." She took a step closer to the desk. "So, in case my prior question was too vague, allow me to rephrase: how do we rescue Sakura?"

Tokiomi Tohsaka's shoulders straightened at her name, but he didn't turn around yet. "…We will do so later. Our immediate concern is the Grail War."

He sighed to himself, the story in his dreams telling him what Jade's reaction would be. "What?!" Her shout rang out through the office. "Is this your idea of a joke?!"

"I'm perfectly serious, Jade," Tokiomi responded evenly as he finally faced her. The Heroic Spirit from Edenia was leaning halfway over the desk, her fingers curled like claws. For only an instant, he recalled seeing her Osh-Tekk lover transform into a jaguar before his priorities swept aside such whimsies. "As much as I want to resolve the situation with Sakura immediately," and cremate Zouken Matou alive while I'm at it, he added to himself, "the Holy Grail War continues. Nine more Servants besides you and Gilgamesh walk about in Fuyuki, three of which pose extreme danger. At least three other Masters remain as well, with any of them liable to claim the Grail if we're not careful. I cannot ignore these facts."

"Kariya has no interest in the Grail himself," she pointed out, "and the other two are just as invested in erasing the rogues as we are. Their Servants perhaps even more so. We already have a ceasefire in place, we may be able to forge an alliance with them."

"Alliances are built around mutual gain," Tokiomi countered. "And with Father Risei dead and his Command Seals lost to us, we have nothing to offer them other than getting rid of a common enemy." He rested a hand on the back of his chair. "Don't think I haven't given this mess due thought, Jade, but the other teams aren't going to be distracted forever, and they will be paying attention to whatever actions I take. Assaulting Zouken in his home may leave us vulnerable to a surprise attack." His frown shifted color. "I'm sure you remember what I've told you about the Einzberns' supposed champion?"

"That Mage Killer fellow? True, he could see our undertaking as an opportunity to remove us from the War," Lancer X conceded, making a conscious effort to rein in her frustration. They both knew she was more than familiar with sneaky murderers. "But that's a risk worth taking. And if you're so concerned about the Einzbern Master mounting an attack on us, then have Archer deal with her group. He may be a lethargic hedonist of a despot, but he ought to be capable of contending with Saber and Assassin X simultaneously if he puts forth some effort. I can even support him if need be."

"And what if against all expectations you and Archer fall? Who will then be there to help me storm the gates of a magus older, more experienced and more ruthless than me? We can't take risks recklessly, Jade! I do wish for Sakura's rescue, but I am also the Master representing the Tohsaka family in this Holy Grail War. I uphold the honor of my, Rin and Sakura's ancestors, I cannot just push such a responsibility aside for a personal matter!"

"By the Elder Gods, this is your daughter's life we're discussing!" Jade slammed both hands against the desk, the wood cracking from her strength. She was running precariously low on patience (and respect) with this man. "Do you not carry the responsibility of a father for her?!"

"Of course, I do!" He shouted, cursing himself for letting his composure slip. "I want Sakura to be safe, but she is not my only responsibility, and neither is Rin!" Then his suspicions grew. "…Do you take me for Shao Kahn?"

She stilled at that monster's name. "What?"

Tokiomi closed his eyes as he collected his thoughts. "I have received a thorough understanding of the one you once called ruler through my dreams," he explained, his tone softening for a moment. "And you have admittedly every right to loathe him. But I am not that barbarian, manipulating and intimidating everyone around me merely to enjoy another conquest while my kingdom crumbles apart because of my negligence."

She opened her mouth, but he wasn't about to leave this issue unaddressed. "It's precisely because I know my duties that I must consider any action I take carefully. You of all people should understand the sacrifices those with authority must make. Your lover Kotal dedicated much of his time to maintaining some measure of order in Outworld, even when you both sought more time together. You yourself reminded princess Kitana that she needed to act more befitting of her position."

Jade shot him a cold glare. "Yes, and if you truly were paying attention to my life, you would know that little conversation came shortly before she and I learned the truth behind her position." He broke eye contact with her, but she wasn't through. "You're right, I do understand the burdens of authority, and I mean no disrespect against the Tohsaka family. But your ancestors' wishes shouldn't be placed above the safety of your daughters. What if Matou decides against his previous plans for Sakura and uses her in this Grail War? You saw what those… things did to Kariya Matou. What about her then?"

He had in fact been trying excruciatingly hard not to dwell on such imagery, but the Servant's words pushed his mind ever closer to them. He shook his head fiercely before meeting her glare again. "I'm not saying we leave Sakura to that fate, Lancer X. Far from it. I'm saying we need to be smart about dealing with Matou. And we need to keep the Holy Grail War in mind. Losing one's composure is never helpful."

The Edenian stepped away from the battered desk, folding her arms. "And maintaining appearances of elegance and unflappability is paramount for a Tohsaka, eh?" she muttered bitterly. "With the way your priorities are aligned, it's little wonder Zouken Matou played you for a fool, Master. Or that Rin lost her sister so easily."

Tokiomi's fingers tightened around the wood, the final chains over his temper beginning to snap. "Tell me, Lancer X, what would you do if you had to choose?"

"Choose… what?"

"Kitana, your princess and oldest friend. Kotal, the warrior and general you grew to love. The mother that bore you and introduced you to the wonders of magic." Tokiomi released the chair as he listed down the individuals his Servant held most dearly in her heart. "All of them died with you unable to do anything, and now, you would wish for them to be saved. But what if you couldn't save all three?"

"That's…" Lancer X trembled slightly at her spot. "The Holy Grail… is supposed to be omnipotent… It can make… any miracle… happen…" Her knuckles cracked audibly.

But her Master didn't back down. Let's see how she likes having her decisions questioned. "Miracles are small, costly things. And while the Grail may be omnipotent, there's still a possibility you may have to choose which one to save. Can you do it now? Kitana, Kotal, or your mother? Which one do you hold dearest? For which one do you consider yourself most responsible for?" He slid into his chair still glaring at the familiar. "Well?"

She returned his glare with twice the fury but said nothing.

The Tohsaka patriarch scoffed. "If you can't give me a decisive answer, then don't presume to lecture me about making choices. And don't forget who the Master is here, Lancer X."

The emerald-clad Heroic Spirit let her arms fall to her side. "I haven't forgotten, Tokiomi Tohsaka." Redonning her hood and mask, she bowed her head with less respect than usual and spat out, "Thy will be done." Then she was gone.

Tokiomi glowered at where she had stood a couple seconds more, then slumped back into his seat with a bitter sigh. "Damnit…" he whispered while closing his eyes and pinching the bridge of his nose.

He shouldn't have said that. He should've kept a level head, but instead he had gone and used her wish against her. But questioning her goal had been the only alternative to the words he had really wanted to say. You think it was easy for me to entrust Sakura to another family?! To watch Aoi fall to her knees, weeping into her hands?! To explain to Rin she no longer had a sister?! They had practically been on the tip of his tongue…

Instead, he chose to counterattack. Jade was right: always elegant is the Tohsaka creed. Always strong. Better he didn't expose any vulnerability, even if it meant jeopardizing his rapport with the Servant he could count on the most… The Servant who had gone to such great lengths for him and his family…

The Servant… whom he might've begun to consider a friend.

"…Stop thinking about such nonsense, you twit," Tokiomi Tohsaka chided himself. "Jade-" He paused; he'd bit his tongue. He breathed in, breathed out, then tried again. "Lancer X is a familiar. A tool for bringing about the Holy Grail and seeing your family's mission fulfilled." He scooted closer to his desk and began pulling out files from the drawers. He stood by what he'd said about prioritizing the Grail War and why, but Zouken Matou was not getting away with what he'd done to his- damnit, his daughter! Tokiomi swore to make that fossil pay if it was the last thing he ever-

His hand froze up. The fingers had drifted upon an old picture of Aoi, Rin and Sakura from only two years ago. Hm… almost forgot that was there. Tokiomi pulled out the framed picture and leaned back in his chair to inspect it. It had been a bright summer day at the playground, Rin pushing Sakura on the swings while Aoi watched them attentively from a bench. He could still hear their laughter…

But even if-after he saved Sakura, that wouldn't mean an automatic happy ending for her. She still needed proper training, guidance. She needed to be prepared for the burdens that came with the wonderful talents she'd been blessed with, but so did Rin. And their father could only pass on the Tohsaka Magic Crest and all of their teachings to one heir. The other would be incompletely trained if they stayed in the family, vulnerable to things only magi had to deal with. Worst case, he'd have to send her off to anotherfamily and hope for the best…

And if the Magus Association grew suspicious of this back-and-forth and got involved…

Tokiomi's shoulders sagged as he inadvertently glanced back at the spot where she had been. "Why did you have to challenge her wish, you fool?" He sighed, his vision blurring. "You're only going to rob her of her chance for it anyway…"

Such was the life of a magus.

"…I see." Assassin X's clone scratched his head thoughtfully. "Is there any change officially to the Grail War's rules in the event of the overseer's death?"

Irisviel shook her head. "Not that I'm aware of. Between the neutrality of the Church and his responsibilities of maintaining the boundary between bystanders and the Grail War, the overseer is supposed to be untouchable. The Founding Families probably never considered such a situation." They definitely couldn't have imagined a Grail War like this one, she left unsaid while thinking. "I suppose the only thing that can be done is appoint a new overseer and proceed as usual."

"And the most immediate replacement for Risei Kotomine would be his own son," Saber surmised as she remained atop the Yamaha, "who allegedly isn't a Master anymore." She frowned. "Now we have even more reason not to trust the Church."

"It rules us out on gaining more Command Seals, too," Assassin X nodded. "Good thing we've been able to avoid using the ones we have so far. I'm sure it's only going to get tougher from here." He shifted towards Maiya. "Kiritsugu know about all this yet?"

"He ought to. He's tapped into the same frequencies as our equipment." The woman's neutral tone belied an irritation at having failed to dispose of Kirei Kotomine last night. She had been positive her trap would've been enough, but what she'd been able to discern sounded like the priest was none the worse for wear. What's it going to take to put him down?

"Well, it can't be helped." She started at the duplicate shinobi's words and found him looking at her. His gaze seemed to be telling her Don't beat yourself up about Kotomine. She stared in muted shock at how easily this man could read her once again, then he was addressing all of them. "Tokiomi ought to be rattled by losing one of his allies, and the rogues will want to capitalize on this. Kiritsugu's going to be preparing for another wild night, and we better do the same."

Saber tensed up on her new bike. "Then I suggest we all make the most out of these hours… unless there is any other news you have for us, Maiya."

She shook her head. "No, that's all for-" Maiya blinked, an engine revved up, and both bike and King of Knights were gone. "…now," she finished deadpan.

Kakashi sauntered over to the estate's entry with a laugh. "I'd worry about her breaking every last traffic law, but there's probably not a police car in the world that can keep up with her." He noted while peering out. Eh, she deserves to have a little fun, considering everything she's dealing with. The Copy Ninja then turned back to the women. "I'll do a quick sweep of the area, but my comm's open in case anything happens. I should be back in half an hour."

Irisviel smiled. "Thank you, Assassin X." Maiya nodded to him, and he flickered away with a Poof!

A few seconds passed before the dark-wearing woman ceased staring at the spot to shake her head. What is with me? Maybe some fresh coffee will help- Irisviel began wobbling at her spot, and her usual stoicism slipped. "Ma'am!" Maiya quickly wrapped her arms around the homunculus, eyes trained on the sweat that was gathering again.

"Did… did Assassin X or Saber notice?" she murmured weakly.

Maiya shifted a bit to support her by one arm, then her free hand moved for her phone. "They're both long gone, but I'll call them-"

"N-no…" She paused as Irisviel's hand lifted jerkily to stop hers. "I'm alright… just a little tired… They don't need to know… They have… enough to worry about… besides me…" She giggled at the slight panic in Maiya's face; seeing her friend show any emotion was a rare treat. "Bring me into the house… before Assasin X returns. I'll explain in there…"

In a rare moment, Maiya Hisau was uncomfortable with a request, but she complied all the same.

-68:29:10

Kariya Matou leaned against the alley's wall, scribbling away in his notebook. He'd been at it since he woke up (he checked his watch) about two hours ago. How time flies…

"How goes your story, Kariya?" He looked up to Gandalf resting on an abandoned box, noticeably leaning more on his staff than usual. Not only had the Servant of Sorcery tended to his injuries from calling so much upon the Crest Worms last night, but he had also been working to keep his partner from hurting himself. An incorporeal Berserker lay by himself in the darker part of the alley, having wrapped his arms tightly around his body and hissing like an agitated snake. Still better than when he'd been pummeling himself furiously and Gandalf had needed to hold him down.

Not bad for a Servant who was still operating mostly on his own mana to spare his Master any additional stress.

Said Master scoffed in good humor. "Wouldn't call it a story, per say…" There hadn't really been a concept in mind behind what he was writing, but the last couple days, it had been a quiet way to pass the time, collect his thoughts.

Caster X shifted in his seat to keep an eye on his distressed partner better. "Is storytelling a hobby of yours?"

"Sort of," Kariya shrugged. "Ever since I cut ties with my family, I've been making a living by writing reports and articles. Nothing award-worthy, of course." His gaze traveled to the sky above the alley. "But looking back, I've always enjoyed a good story. Noble heroes braving terrible odds, defeating evil, falling in love…" A chuckle escaped him. "Guess I'm a bit of a romantic. But for me, hearing a story's not as fun as coming up with one myself."

Gandalf echoed the chuckle as he retrieved his pipe. "I can understand the appeal, and I enjoy telling a tale as well." Kariya's smile widened as his ponderings drifted back to dreams of the wise old man smoking before him. So many different tales, both of battle and discussion, joy and sorrow…

But he'd noticed a recurring element in his dreams. "…Why Hobbits?" he asked out loud.

Gandalf turned back to him. "Pardon?" Rings of smoke wafted from his mouth.

"I've been seeing some of your memories," Kariya explained, his writing slowing. "You've faced a lot of different and dangerous threats in your time. I know you're not one to prefer fighting over talking, I've seen you talk with humans, Dwarves and Elves of all backgrounds. But… many of the moments in my dreams would show you either in the Shire or tricking one or two halflings to go on an adventure." A snort escaped him. "Usually, ones with Took heritage."

The wizard coughed laughing into his pipe. "Well, Tooks are inherently attracted to venture, I have found. More than most of their kind."

"But that's just it." The Master hobbled over to a discarded chair and sat down. "Hobbits are probably the most passive people I've ever heard of. They form villages and communities puny in comparison to the other races' kingdoms of Middle-Earth, let alone the cities of this world. They dig up tiny holes to live in, not giant mines full of gold and other precious minerals like the ones Dwarves take pride in. They don't go out seeking adventure on their own. They don't fight in wars. Frodo led your Fellowship because he'd inherited the Ring from Bilbo, who in turn just stumbled upon it on a journey you convinced him to take with Thorin's company. Sam, Pippin and Merry went, too, but they did that for Frodo's sake."

Kariya paused momentarily to clear his throat; it was getting a little hoarse from all the talking. "Sorry for rambling, but I've gotta ask: Why were you always spending time with them, Gandalf? You were one of five Wizards trusted with fighting evil in Middle-Earth. You met with Kings and generals of other races, you fought Orcs, Goblins, evil spirits, things even worse, and you had to deal with Men and Dwarves turned corrupt. Even a couple Elves. But that kind of stuff didn't involve Hobbits most of the time-"

"Precisely."

He blinked in surprise. "Uh, what?" was his amazingly articulate reply to the interruption.

But Gandalf only smiled around his pipe. "You're quite right about Hobbits, Kariya." He set his staff against the wall, then reached down to retrieve a bottled tea Kariya had bought at the convenience store. "As I've said before, they're generally peace-loving fellows content with living by their holes and tending to their gardens." While speaking, he offered his Master the tea, who accepted it with a quick thanks and a long drink. "Oh, some can be rather unpleasant or unwelcoming," he shifted briefly to a mutter, "and I've known a few to have light fingers," before returning to regular volume, "but as a rule, you can count on them if you seek at least one delicious meal, friendly company, and a quiet night."

Kariya's fingers drummed against the plastic bottle as he weighed these words. "You've appreciated these things while with other people, too, though. I know I saw you having dinner at Rivendell a couple of times." Though with one Dwarven company once, that mightn't have been so peaceful.

"True," the Gray Wizard acknowledged, "but during those moments, I would also be discussing important matters with them, such as disputes between Elves and Dwarves and Men or Orc attacks or possible signs of Sauron's machinations. With Hobbits, on the other hand, I could enjoy a cup of tea while a Longbottom spoke of his pipeweed fields bearing a little more in the previous season, or help a Missus Brandybuck haggle over fish prices, or entertain a gaggle of little ones with my fireworks." He took out his pipe to exhale a collection of smoke-butterflies fluttering up and away, then leaned back with a content expression. "Hobbits live simple, innocent lives, and that is not something one should take lightly, Kariya Matou. Regardless of which world we live in."

His Master sipped from his tea again, thinking back to those happy moments he yearned for. "…No argument there. And…" he mulled over the meaning of what his friend had said. "In the Shire, you felt like you didn't have so many responsibilities, right?"

Gandalf's long beard swayed while he nodded. "Not having to consider the safety of Middle-Earth quite so direly was certainly appealing. Perhaps Saber would've enjoyed it as well. It may've done her some good to pass a little time not bearing her crown…" he trailed off, briefly lost in thought. Then he snapped back to attention. "But moreover, Kariya, spending time with the Hobbits always reminded me why I fought for Middle-Earth. Why I strove to protect such peaceful, innocent lives from the Enemy. Why I still believe in the good of life.

"One shouldn't take small things lightly, Kariya. At times, they have the greatest potential."

This time, Kariya didn't need to think long to comprehend. It was because of their very innocence that Hobbits proved so brave and wise when the need arose; Gandalf and, by extension, he had seen enough of these virtues with Bilbo and Frodo. Half my size, but twice the men I could ever be… Trying to come up with a story inspired by them had been kind of fun for Kariya. Didn't think I'd find any fun in this damn War… And frankly, he'd needed something to anchor his thoughts from the revelations of last night.

He hadn't known… Tokiomi had honestly thought he was doing Sakura a favor by leaving her with the Matous. He hadn't just abandoned her, he wanted to ensure her a bright future and got suckered by Zouken. It made sense… even if Kariya didn't like admitting it. Just because he's not a monster doesn't mean he's a saint, he grumbled, but to himself. He had a hunch what Gandalf would say to that.

But even if he still had a good couple bones to pick with that snob, at least his blood didn't boil every time Tokiomi came to mind anymore. Good thing, too, because now Kariya could think a little more clearly about how to save Sakura. Okay, Archer X and Caster might've gone off the rails, but they'd still need a Master… and that old cockroach always did like playing games behind the scenes. He tapped his pen against the notebook in thought. Caster's out of the picture, but now there's an Avenger X running around. Zouken's doing, too, or I'll eat my hoodie. Meaning he's still got two Servants on his payroll, and he'll probably keep them close by, seeing as I'm still alive and technically fighting for the Matous. Gandalf and Berserker ought to be able of taking them on, though.

"Errr…" A growl snapped him out of his strategizing. Berserker was acting up again, from the looks of it. Both hands were gripping his helmet so tightly a high-pitched screeching could be heard along the alley. It was almost like the crazy knight wanted to crush his own skull. "Drrraaahh…!"

Kariya sighed. Great. Just when he was finally starting to get his act together, now Berserker was sliding back into madness from the looks of it. And I've only got two Seals left for him. Kariya wasn't strong enough without them to pull him back if he went on a rampage, and the Crest Worms would feast on him then. It was only thanks to Gandalf either of them was still here at this point in the Grail War.

Speaking of which, the wizard had put out his pipe and was watching his fellow Servant in sympathy. The sight made Kariya recall a promise he'd made last night. "You know, I still owe you a favor, Gandalf."

The Servant paused while reclaiming his staff. "Yes, though I admit I didn't quite fulfill my end of our deal the way you wanted." Though it was said in good humor, his words carried a glimmer of guilt.

"Nonsense," his Master assured him. "You did a lot more than just keeping your end, so it's only fair I keep mine." He put his notebook away and stood up stiffly. "How can I help?"

Gandalf nodded to Berserker thrashing about on the ground. "Will you permit me to aid him fully? To this point, I have been able to dull his madness successfully with smaller spells, but now, it may be time for me to take greater steps."

Kariya Matou watched him with some amused surprise. That was it? For just a moment, he'd thought the wizard would unveil some hidden selfishness. Who am I kidding? Tokiomi was at the very least right about Gandalf being nothing like the magus bastards on this planet.

As for the favor, he didn't see a downside letting Gandalf work his magic. Berserker being… relatively more manageable had already eased the everyday strain, and anything was preferable to seeing the great knight in this pitiable state-

Pity… A certain grey little creature crawled out before him, massive eyes flashing with insanity and lust for one particular thing.

Kariya sighed to himself as other memories emerged, but not his or Gandalf's. A select few had been of forbidden love, a tragic mistake, and regret so encompassing it made his heart lurch even now. It was terrifying what obsessing over one little thing could do to a person. …Oh, who am I kidding? It's not like I don't have a clue what it's like.

Well, a certain foreign Heroic Spirit had gone above and beyond his contract for this lousy Master's sake. It'd be only right that the Master do the same.

"Alright." Kariya Matou raised his left arm towards his Servant, the crimson markings on the hand beginning to glow. "By the power of my Command Seal, Gandalf the Gray," he intoned with all of his meager strength, "help your partner in any way you see fit."

The Istar's smile grew as he felt the mana wash over him. "Very good, Master." Then he strode over to his broken friend.

He stood hunched over, his only company the darkness around him and the hatred inside his armor. The darkness crushed him from all sides, and the hatred burned his flesh. 

He had failed again.

Once again, he had sworn to follow his duty, and once again, he had let passion overwhelm him. He had betrayed another oath, and he was left with nothing to show for it. The King had stood before him, her sword drawn back. He had practically felt the blessed steel carve through its armor… only to be called away by his Master.

He did not blame the battered man, nor the old wizard. The fault was entirely his. He should have remembered his true targets: the black assailant from afar, the colossal monster from the depths, that horned demon with the blazing weapon, the metal titan, most dangerous of all… He had given his word to the old man, his friend, and then broken it without a second thought.

He glared down at his gauntlets, distinguished and pristine once upon a time, now blackened by fury and betrayal. A fitting symbol for his self.

How could he have thought that this summoning would be any different? How could he have let himself hope that the Servant summoned as his partner was a good sign? How could he believe his prayers were answered when he saw the King standing before him?

He sought for release by the King's justice… but now, he had proven himself unworthy of such an honor. There was no hope for him, no salvation. He was nothing more than a rabid beast chasing his passions and ruining that which he held dear. There was only one way left for him to make amends.

But just as he made to tear his own wretched heart out, something new emerged.

Who are you?

Those three words rippled across the sea of darkness. No matter what corner he may have retreated to, they would reach him. They were carried with a familiar voice, a presence he had grown to be thankful for in recent times. Hearing it now only tightened the screws of guilt over his core.

Even as he faced away in shame, he could feel it. A tiny glimmer amidst this black hell. Its light not blinding but warm, compassionate. Forgiving. Beckoning him to come closer. All the more reason why he began to stalk away from it. He was unworthy of such goodness.

Who are you? The same question rang out again, and he stopped in his tracks. It was neither the words itself nor the old man's voice within them that gave him pause, though. It was their tone: not furious, not demanding of an answer, but patient. Laced with a sense of hope.

The fallen Knight of the Lake hesitated for only a second, armor rattling through his trembles of anguish, then he turned in place to face the light. Regardless of his weakness, the least his partner deserved after everything he had to endure because of this fool was a proper answer. 

"I am the shunned. The cursed. The hated. My name undeserving of praise. My body undeserving of envy. I am the shadow what lurks beneath the light of Heroic Spirits. Born of the darkness of radiant legend." Flames blazed within his armor, burning his flesh with each piece of his confession. His gauntlets rose, clawing through the darkness, reaching out towards the light-

"Thus, I hate." His helmet creaked from the pressure as his fingers gripped it. "Thus, I resent. I am fed by the cries of the people who immerse themselves in the darkness and curse those blessed by the light." Yes, this luminous wizard, this Heroic Spirit of another land who had come with him to this War, he should have been an enemy to be destroyed.

He tightened his grip onto his helmet, a crack forming near the top. The words continued to tumble from his distorted mouth. "Her presence is my disgrace," the inferno blazed all the more as she flickered before him, "her honor eternally unsullied, and I, eternally shamed…"

The crack widened ever further until the metal finally split apart with a screech. Both halves fell to the ground as the mass of black fury raged before him. "By every right and deed, you and I are fated to be enemies, Gray Wizard. I am a beast fueled by hatred, eating away at our Master, the sacrifice!" He spread his demonic arms wide. "As I betrayed her in life, so I betrayed you now! I am a being left with nothing to hope for, nothing to give but death!"

He readied himself for the clash, the punishment that awaited him- Is that truly all you are, sir?

Once again, he froze up. Different question, same gentleness, and the way he was addressed… "…I've told you many times now," his arms fell back to his side, having seemingly tripled in weight,"I am no sir." He could still see his formerly prestigious sword stained with the blood of Gareth and Gaheris. True knights. His comrades…"Do not mark me with such an honor."

But the light only drew closer. It is an honor you were once worthy of, Knight of the Lake. You disguised yourself to enter a tournament in your friend's place. You fended off an ambush even when deprived of your sword and wielding only an elm branch. You slew a Dragon singlehandedly. You even became the most trusted knight and friend of King Arthur. Such accomplishments are certainly deserving of praise.

He flinched away from the brilliance, ever word cracking against his person like a barbed whip. "Old tales… tarnished by my disgrace. I betrayed her friendship, destroyed it all-"

But that is not the entire truth, the voice stopped him. You claimed the heart of the Queen, but was this an act of cruelty? Did you lust for her? Did you force yourself upon her? Did you mean to spite Arthur? Did you seek Camelot's downfall?

"NO!" He roared out on impulse. He stilled, unsure why he had denied this so strongly. "…No," He repeated himself somewhat calmer. "Guinevere and I… we simply wished to ease Arthur's burden. Our love came by accident. I never meant to harm my King or our home… but I still did. The Knights of the Round Table splintered apart, and Camelot fell because of the shame I caused."

His inner blaze had begun to dim, though, despite the confession of his misdeeds. And the light began to grow. From what I have learned, Camelot fell because of a plot against the throne. The revelation of your relationship with Guinevere did indeed play a part in your home's destruction, but it was only one of many factors. He tried to move away, but the light shifted to cut him off. I do not speak to absolve you of your guilt, Sir Lancelot. I simply say that you alone do not carry the blame.

"But is my part not damning enough?!" A different light burned before his eyes now, harsh and condemning. A sword nearly as celebrated as the one he carried, poised to pierce and burn him to less than ashes. A face of one he once called "friend," contorted in anger. "I killed my fellow Knights, betrayed my brothers-in-arms! Even then, Guinevere died! Gawain renounced me and perished because of a wound I gave him! Arthur fell alone at Camlann, and I did NOTHING!"

That final shout seemed to claim his strength, and he collapsed onto his knees. "I have committed sins that cannot be ignored, wizard," he whispered in defeat. "Nor should they be excused."

And you believe punishment to be the answer for your sins? It astounded him. Even in the face of his full rage, the light before him did not diminish. It had in fact become brighter. Punishment is easy, Sir Lancelot. It is a swift, simple thing that only appears right in the short term. Alone, it does not restore good.

Not for the first time in his second life, he was shamed by the old man's words. They beat down on his anger, sapped him of his energy, and left him feeling like a chastened boy sent to his room. Was punishment not sufficient for him? Need he go even further? He felt himself sink even deeper into despair.

Redemption, though… The word gave him pause.Even as it scolded him, the light astoundingly did not diminish in its kindness. Redemption is hard to find. Even harder to achieve. It pushes you to work, to try to find a way where the good that suffered from your actions is restored. Not everyone succeeds in this mission… but those who do, they know a satisfaction beyond what any punishment could bestow.

The darkness from before had retracted with each word spoken, and the light nearly surrounded him. The idea of making amends… regaining his honor… To say he was not tempted would've been a dishonesty.

Yet he still flinched away from the light. Even if he tried, he felt like his legs no longer had the strength to rise. "The things I have done… there is no redemption for me." This confession came from perhaps the final unblemished piece of his heart.

Who are you to judge so?

He could hear footsteps now. A presence was approaching him through the light. You have made terrible mistakes, Knight of the Lake. Your actions have left deep scars on others and this world's history. The voice chimed throughout his darkened skull, and it grew louder with every step.

But it did not deafen him. You are not the first soul I have encountered that had fallen to darkness. If anything, he felt like he was hearing clearly for the first time in… And you are certainly not the most malevolent, either. In… They, too, allowed a minuscule impurity to corrupt themselves and were eventually consumed by them. Most would see them as terrible monsters… But ultimately, they are tragic figures who let their bad traits get the best of their good. Such a fate can befall any person, including me. Including us.

"But you needn't be defined by your trespasses alone." The words had changed, he noted. They sounded more… human. He raised his head with newfound strength… and found himself staring up at the one who had set foot in this world through the same ritual as he. The wizard was different, though: the robes and beard of a humble gray had become white as freshly fallen snow. The staff remained wood but of a polished white that it seemed to refract the light about it. His sword hung in its sheathe by the hip, ready to be drawn within a second. Gone was the hat, revealing the wizened face encompassed with stark-white hair.

But those eyes… They remained the same as he had always seen them. Blue as the cloudless sky, carrying a wisdom equaled only by their benignity. "We shape our tales by the choices we have made, sir knight," the wizard said, delivering the final confirmation that it was indeed his voice Berserker had been hearing all this time, "and the ones we make now." He gestured outward with his staff. "There is still great evil ahead. Our Master has embarked on a dangerous quest, and he will need aid if he wishes to succeed. Your King is present as well, and like you, she bears pain from the downfall of the kingdom you both fought for in life. She seeks its salvation… and to right old wrongs. And you…" The wizard walked closer to him, and he did not shy away this time.

"You may have disgraced yourself in times long past, but you are still a knight. One of the finest ever written in this world's history. Regardless of your flaws, I am certain you have the capacity to help others. So, you see, redemption is not as far from you as you assumed. Thus, the final matter…" The wizard stretched out his right arm to him.

"…Is whether or not you have the courage to try and earn it."

He gazed at the open hand hovering before him. He could still feel the madness inside him, raging, screaming that it was a trick, denouncing the wizard as an old fool. "THERE IS NO REDEMPTION FOR YOU!"

But the cry was hollow, and his right arm was already reaching up with fresh vigor.

Fingers wrapped around forearms, and the Knight of the Lake rose to his feet amid the light. A handsome face, one that had captivated many ladies and once represented the epitome of a perfect knight, stared gratefully down at the one who had given him so much. "Do you…" He hesitated for only an instant. "Do you truly think… I can be good again, Gandalf?"

"I cannot say for sure, Lancelot. But at the very least… I believe you can be better."

-65:37:42

Waver Velvet was just walking out of the supermarket when a brand-new migraine popped up in his head. He tried to shake it away with a grumble, but it persisted. "Knew I should've stopped at three beers…" He grumbled to himself while hefting his freshly purchased sleeping bag.

Following the battle of Mion River and the loss of… Qrow, Rider and Berserker X had decided to honor their fallen friend in a way that would've made him proud: guzzling down as many alcoholic beverages as their Servant-grade livers could handle. And being their usual responsible authority figures, they dragged Waver along to help him process his grief. And pay for the drinks, of course. The trio had gone through four (or was it five?) bars before finally calling it a night and heading home on the Gordius Wheel; the boy was positive that those stupid bovines had been drunk too from the way they kept zigzagging across the sky.

No sooner did Waver flopped onto the bed had he been bombarded with dreams of adventures. Some were from the King of Conquerors, others from the 11th Kenpachi. But he noted with a heavy heart, he didn't see any of a certain dry-witted Huntsman. Not anymore. Saber X really was gone.

He shook his head again as he trudged towards the bus stop. A magus shouldn't dwell on his failings lest he risk stifling his own research. Besides, from a technical point of view, he now only needed to provide two Servants with mana. His meager Magic Circuits were particularly grateful for that, though they still moaned with each step he took.

Oddly enough, though, Waver noted, while he was still tired from a magical standpoint, he felt just fine physically. He got into the bus, stood waiting until his stop came and departed casually, despite carrying two shopping bags and a rucksack all filled to the brim, plus the sleeping bag under his arm. Waver Velvet being a proud nonathletic, all the stuff would've normally been too much for him, never mind his thaumaturgical and emotional baggage. But he didn't feel any strain in his muscles or notice his pace slowing.

Weird… Oh well. Waver shrugged to himself as his path took him off the sidewalk and into the woods. A couple more minutes, and he reached a familiar clearing. The Master set down his belongings and briskly began to unpack his purchases. A real magus wouldn't need so much mundane stuff to help his Magic Circuits along, the young Master grumbled to himself; partially out of habit, but he'd only realized last night how weak he really was-

He paused while spreading out the heat blanket. He'd been trying to take special care of his injured hands, but… Waver tentatively peeled off the bandages he'd clumsily applied to his right hand. Sure enough, the skin that had ruptured from overusing his Magic Circuits was healed. In fact, it looked like there had never been any injuries in the first place.

Waver checked his other hand, same result. He didn't even feel any pain no matter how he flexed or wiggled his fingers. Huh… guess the damage wasn't as bad as I'd thought, he decided before continuing to unpack with less hesitation than before. Wouldn't be the first time I was wrong.

Either way, it made setting up his little spot in the woods a lot easier. He established a Bounded Field as an additional precaution; this area was far enough away that nobody should find it easily, but better safe than sorry. Especially since Waver was going to be out for a while. He picked up the small lunchbox and proceeded to eat his late lunch. It had gotten cold over the course of his journey, but he scarfed it down all the same.

'What kinda bento you got there?' Berserker X's voice rumbled in his eardrums. Even if there was no sign of him for the naked eye.

Waver swallowed before answering. "Eel fishball, I think. It's lost its flavor now that it's cold, but it'll still taste bad even warm, I'll bet." He picked an energy drink and took a big gulp from it, then returned to the meal. "Guess Japanese cuisine's overrated."

'Be glad you didn't pick nattō, twerp. Stupid beans… I always make a mess trying to cut up the little bastards.' The Servant's Master filed that little trivia away under unimportant stuff.

Then Rider chimed in. 'Say, boy, I couldn't help but notice that Shogi Okonomiyaki shop you passed in Shinto. Those modanyaki treats looked quite enticing, it's interesting how they can make them like that! You missed a fine opportunity to try them.'

"You guys can go ahead and pig out there, just hurry up and get your strength back," Waver retorted in between bites. He ignored the grumbles that came from both of them; the whole time, the Heroic Spirits had been following him around in spirit form. This shouldn't have raised eyebrows with experts: Servants required less mana in such a state than if they materialized. But the fact these two stayed incorporeal, especially Iskandar, was irregular.

The Master nodded to their surroundings. "Berserker X wouldn't know this spot, but you recognize it, don't you, Rider? This here's where I summoned you and Saber X."

'You're not still moping around, are you? Qrow'd clock you for that.'

Waver scoffed at the brute's quip. "Don't be ridiculous. This here's the location where the Fuyuki leylines best suited for Rider run through. They should be compatible with you, too, Berserker X, so it's the best place I can think of for you guys to replenish your mana quickly. I'll stay out here all day just sleeping, leaving you free to draw all the mana you need from me. Just so long as you don't kill me, of course. That's bound to help you get a little strength back."

For a while, nobody said anything, allowing the boy to eat in peaceful silence. Then an embarrassed chuckle came from Rider, and he could almost see Berserker X's smirk. 'You figured it out, then? Then you ought to have spoken up earlier. Now I feel bad for us tiptoeing around you all this time.'

'It's not exactly like we were being ourselves this morning, Kandy. What with the pub crawl from last night.'

"Exactly, you Idiots!" Waver slapped down his empty lunchbox in irritation. "You should've told me sooner! I did think for a while you being so quiet was because you were still mourning for Saber X, but it only makes sense that you're both low on energy."

He wasn't stupid. Iskandar couldn't use a Noble Phantasm as massive and powerful as Ionioi Hetairoi twice in two nights without it taking up a sizable chunk of his mana, and Waver had expressly encouraged Kenpachi to cut loose against Caster's monster. Him tearing that thing apart inside the Reality Marble had to have been taxing for both of them, even with the current War's reduced cost for Servants. Sure, him now being a Master of two instead of three helped a bit, but Qrow Branwen had always been the "cheapest" Servant among them. His absence wasn't reducing the requirement on Waver's Magic Circuits that much.