What If Berserker Naruto Got Harem | Part 1

hi welcome back guys this is your Sensei back with another fanfiction this is the first part of what if Berserker Naruto got harim now before starting please give this video a like And subscribe to the channel if you want more videos like this now let's get into the fanfic it was a good life I have no regrets none worth mentioning at any rate I had a good time won the war saved my friend got married became hackage started a family raised plenty of kids I outlived them all in the end but still I died happy I got to see my grandchildren grow up and have kids of Their Own that's the vaunted Uzumaki Vitality for you if you don't die in battle you're going to get older nope it wasn't a bad life not by any stretch of the imagination because of that I was able to see the world grow into a peaceful Utopia no more Madmen no risk of War breaking out I can rest easy now maybe I should just do that leave it to the younger Generations there's a few young upstarts in that lot of course that they're always air but I have faith that cooler heads will prevail yeah I've done enough everyone's waiting for me still is it wrong that I don't want to rest these old bones of mine don't want to lay down just yet I may be the only left of my generation but going out like this just feels wrong somehow ha why the long face it's not like me to just die quietly you know I may be old but I'm not that old I don't want to die in my sleep like the others no I want to go out with a bang with laughter in my ears and a smile on my face one last hrah what another adventure I wouldn't mind it at all not like I got anything better to do at last Jee rum watched the circle before her burned scarlet and felt her heart burn with pride at last success her preparations have been excruciating her time climing painstakingly precise she'd acted at the exact moment the winds were at their highest when her magic stood at its peak all her calculations were precise she didn't care which class she summoned if she managed to avoid the unpredictable Berserker stigmas so long as she whose talents complimented hers that was all that mattered a servant with a wind Affinity would be perfect given the nature of her abilities yes that would suit her expectations indeed rise she finished her lengthy incantation with a triumphant shout guardian of the Heavenly scales sparked by her command the wind picked up blasting her hair back such phenomena was within Jean's expected calculations of course a moment of silence passed as she waited with baited breath then came the explosion a pillar of golden Crimson Radiance erupted from the circle all at once throwing Jee on her rear and dashing her glasses from her face what in the world if the mere summoning of her servant could create a storm of this magnitude then she'd truly chosen very well indeed most would have bed as the skies darkened overhead others would cringed as the mighty Gale spawned a towering tornado that sundered nearby trees and plunged the clearing Into Darkness Jean did not fear the Shadows nor the storm she had seen far worse in her career as a magi the darkness in Humanity's heart put any form of nature to shame still there was a certain Savage Beauty to be seen in the storm a distant detached part of her wondered if it would consume her even now she felt her feet dragging threatening to lift her into the air at any moment and then as abruptly as the storm had come so two did it fade stealing her very Soul Gan awaited a response L eyes trained into the Thick Smoke slowly something stirred within these next few moments were crucial for Jee Not only would they determine the the nature of her relationship with her servant but they may well affect her chances of success in the battles to come this Holy Grail War would be most unlike the others after all perhaps the first and last of its kind if IG Millennia had their way trifas was a large Place indeed and she'd have to work with others Magi at that although the idea of mutual cooperation toward a go rankled Gene somewhat she knew that it must be put aside until the black faction was dealt with then perhaps there would be time for her wish doubtless they would all turn on one another in time once the goal was within their grasp still the association had a expectations of her and she aimed to fulfill them she was being paid handsomely for this endeavor after all no doubt her efforts would prove fruitful for now it was critical that she'd summoned a strong Contender for the war to come for now she would hold her tongue a wait a response and try not to look like an utter idiot in the face of her new companion yes companion anyone who viewed such a Fantastical being as a familiar Was a Fool In Her Eyes a movement a blurred figure and bright color stepped out of the haze and shifted into her field of vision well now a loud boyish voice exclaimed what do we have here here Jean's face flushed with a thousand shades of Shame if only she had her glasses to see them perhaps her servant could here the newcomer rumbled abruptly I'm guessing these are yours thus it came as something of a surprise when her lost spectacles were inexplicably returned to her as she looked still squinting against the dust and grit In Her Eyes the figure extended an arm and pressed her lost frames onto her face rough callous fingers brushed her face Jean's mind blanked to White she no longer had it in her to move in that moment with infinite gentleness her servant adjusted her glasses in Swift yet deaf movements and then apparently satisfied with their work stepped back with a satisfied grunt almost immediately their own Visage swam into Crystal Clear Clarity there he bobbed his head that should do Master iwa the sound reactivated Jean's frazzled psyche and she hastened to correct The Battered rims as best she could frantic The megus Scrambled back to her feet dirtied hands palmed her dress with needless haste desperate to focus on anything anything anything but that surreal experience she' just endured she almost couldn't bear to look at the being who was clearly her servant how how could he she'd never been touched like that before ever by anyone it might seem strange for an accomplished maggus and killer to be flustered so but therein lay the truth Jee rum was embarrassed right and proper more so when she finally mustered up the resolve to look at him with a jaw popping yawn her servant stretched his arms to the heavens ah much better feels good to be young again bright blue eyes the color of endless Skies gazed back at her framed by whiskered cheeks wild saffron hair and a smile like sunshine a cloak the color of dark honey hung over their shoulders Sheltering the dark crimson and black vestments worn beneath it upon his back lay a giant Scroll of Unknown Origin secured by a single strap to his shoulders Jean felt her hopes plummet at the sight of him her first thought was that she'd made a mistake and summoned assassin rather than one of the top tier classes oh this was just the worst she silently prayed she was wrong if it's about your wish don't worry I've got the gist of it thngs to the throne he hummed folding both arms behind his head before she could speak up I don't really have a wish of my own I'm just in this for fun that didn't reassure Jean not at all not one bit and or she managed through clenched teeth hey you mean me right right sorry this is still kind of new to me he grinned knuckling his forehead like a cheerless child let's see what were the words aha there they are um laughing he coughed into a fist to clear his voice I'm Uzumaki Naruto class Berserker At Your Service I ask of you are you my master damn his simple remark innocent smelly as well as those words knife straight through Jean's heart that look that smile that expression of absolute trust it was more deadly than a poison knife too good too pure but he was a Berserker this was the worst possible matchup for her just how young was he barely looked to be out of his teens was he even she wanted to laugh she wanted to cry she wanted to shake him and all but demand her Catalyst back of course she could do none of these so she was left with only one option in the end slumped LK she managed eloquently really it was all she could think to do did you not hear me master Naruto blinked confused I said my name is no no she groaned I heard you it's just you don't look like one Naruto's right eye twitched at her offhand remark ever so slightly H what's the you mean I don't look like a Berserker no Jean exploded you don't not a bit not at all well excuse me princess Atlanta felt her ears twitch from her perch in the trees she sensed berserker's approach long before she saw him heard him crashing through the undergrowth toward her position wanted but to listen it had to be Berserker or saber at the very least no other class exuded that kind of raw power no one else could light up the night merely by being summoned to this plane of existence with her Superior senses she didn't need to search for them she intrinsically knew that they whomever they were would come for her she wasn't making any effort to hide after all part of her was silently grateful she could have e easily been summoned as Berserker herself thanks to her fantasm agrias metamorphosis bore of divine punishment yet she'd lucked out and manifested as Archer instead perhaps it was just her own Wayward curiosity but she wanted to see who had been inflicted with such a cruel fate trifa certainly didn't lack for Vantage points in that regard the trees provided perfect cover allowing her to see a bolt of gold shot passed shattering her Ry found you a triumphant voice cried from just behind her flank I thought I sent someone lurking about out here years of honed Instinct had her knocking an arrow in the vo's direction on couldn't be sure if this was a servant of black after all but in the end she needn't have bothered a young man with wild blue eyes and a mop of messy Golden Hair lay crouched on the branch beside her a Red Cloak thrown over his orangy black vestments a scroll of massive proportions hung over his shoulders as she looked on in quiet disbelief he struck up a pose rolled his head in a full circle and thrust one hand forward had she been familiar with the hij Jinks of a certain perverted Sage she would have recognized the Absurd stance and skewed him full of arrows thankfully she did not her cirker of red us Mackin At Your Service the young man declared boisterously grinning at her judging by your bow I'm guessing you're Archer no you're definitely Archer right what was this strange eagerness of his it was like talking to a puppy straightening from her Crouch Archer frowned you would abandon your master so easily perser rest assured My adorable little Magus is sound asleep so I decided to step out and investigate his smile didn't lessen in the slightest if anything it seemed to burn even brighter at her pointed remark trust me she's perfectly safe so now that I've shown you mine how about you show me yours a it wasn't as if the O was being terribly subtle about it in the end she replied Archer of red at Alanta nice to meet you Naruto beamed she didn't expect him to leap over to her much less to extend a hand to her in Friendship why take me at my word so easily weily she eyed the offered limb I could be lying it's not like me to be so suspicious of people pearly white teeth flashed in a rogish grin exposing sharpened canine teeth there's really only one person I'm suspicious of and you're nothing like him so if you claim to be Archer of red then you must be Archer of red and if by some chance you're actually lying to me I'll kill you problem solved for a fleeting moment the Peerless Huntress saw a beast stir in those blue eyes or were they read she blinked and like an erron Shadow fleeing before the dawn that brief glimmer of Darkness vanished despite that faint glimpse of Madness she'd experienced Atlanta felt no fear there could be little room for confusion in such a way of being indeed part of her respected his line of thinking what a simple way to live what's your wish again that sudden line of questioning I wish the huntress turned her head to regard the unlikely Berserker don't you have one of your own nope not at all the blonde grinned I'm just happy to have a second chance at life after losing mine you could even say that simply behind here is my wish and yours this time the follower of Artemis didn't hesitate I wish for the Salvation of all children seeing his baffled expression she sighed and banished her bow forsaking combat and her haste to explain her dream that is to say for them to be loved that they might never know the pans of loneliness for them to never to Hungry to be loved and cherished if the Grail can Gran this then I would have no regrets nuto actually blinked at that save them all huh yes the intensity of her response and expression nearly floored him what's wrong with that sighing the Berserker scratched at his metal headband with finger I'm not saying there's anything wrong with it buff a sad smile adorned those whiskered cheeks it'll be difficult you know even so I must um there hadn't been so much as a glimmer of hesitation in her response indeed how could there be for her to State something so unreasonable might sound childish to most but for one such as Atalanta there could be no greater calling if the Grail had the power to Grant such a wish then how could it not it was a pure wish to Ed perhaps but pure in its intentions nevertheless she had no desire for fame wealth power or even a second chance at life like him her sole desire was to save others even if it meant being mocked ridiculed disdained abored they weren't so different She and Him for a boy who'd experienced the hell that was loneliness he knew better than most he couldn't save everyone even if they were children one was always suffering somewhere in this world yet here Atlanta was trying to overturn the very reality with her own hands did that make her an idealist or a fool with such a wish possible he supposed to might well be from what he knew of the Holy Grail it could indeed Grant such a wish perhaps this was something to fight for a better goal a destination rather than living for the sake of living or fighting for entertainment even if it wasn't something that could be achieved by one or two people surely an all powerful wish granting device could regardless her words lit a fire in him Atlanta Archer nearly fell off the bow and tumbled to the forest below such was the vment with which Berserker had spoken before she could snap at him in recompense for his tarity the blonde clamped both hands on her shoulders and Drew her into a firm Embrace squirming in discomforted embarrassment the huntress could only flail mutely to no avail his grip was iron and she hadn't the strength to break free let alone escape a firm hold like his still what manner of Madness was this why was he shouting and hugging her out of the blue had he lost his mind and I think I like you pulling away Naruto gave her a gentle shake and laughed Yash I've decided that dream of yours I'm going to help you achieve it Atlanta sputtered in Surprise W what nonsense is this just who are you to say such a thing who me the doppelganger grinned I'm just a clone vered green eyes narrowed a clone whoop shouldn't have said that byebye with a grin Berserker went up in a plume of smoke leaving poor Atlanta to ponder what on Earth just happened all right I give up what the hell are you taking me to church for master it was the first thing he'd said to her all afternoon Jean staunchly ignored the voice in her head and kept walking resuming her brisk Pace toward the building in question even in astral form he continued to rile her not with words but silence she refused to give him the satisfaction of seeing her eye twitch the bastard was just trying to get a rise out of her after last night yes that was it he wouldn't succeed Jee rung could be called many things as a Meg as she was a killer a bibliomaniac and secretly a hopeless romantic at heart but she had her pride in the war to come the latter seemed a small Petty thing indeed yet Berserker had wounded it all the same perhaps it was petty of her to withhold the reason for their presence here but after their little spat she was feeling a tad bit cross with her servant well excuse me princess where did he get off calling her that how dare he you'll just have to wait and see Berserker you're not still mad or you she turned up her nose is is that a yes oh for the love off what did I do wrong a swirl of wild golden dust swam around Jean's shoulders and rapidly assumed the shape of her servant even as he finished speaking Naruto's manifestation proved so abrupt that she wasn't able to stop in time when he abruptly barred her path she tripped over her own two feet and slammed headlong in his a dark sleeved arm shot out and steadied her by the waist cradling her closer far closer than necessary aha there it was that smile again an infuriating gleam of white that broke no trespass and she found her resolve faltering at the sight of it will you stop batting his hand aside Jee wriggled out of his grasp and stormed past him all right princess mind telling me what I did to upset you stop calling me Princess hey but it kind of suits you you know the young man drawled trailing after her besides I'm buo Ward when are we going to see some action if you're that Restless use your Noble fantasm and scout out the city she retorted waspishly pausing to face her chish servant fully I don't need you for this in truth she didn't she only needed to register the two of them as participants in the ward and potentially cooperate with the other masters of the red action Naruto's presence wasn't needed he was better suited to combat in that regard Spirits she hoped he'd finally give in and listen to her instead he grinned and trotted after her with an impish laugh how do you know I'm not using it no he grunted as her elbow slammed his gut because you're still solid laughter greeted her gez I felt that one of his supposed Noble fantasms involved the use of duplication or so he claimed a technique like that could be used to devastating effect if utilized properly assuming she could ever get him to do so without use of a command spell why did she feel as though he was the master and she the servant ug she wasn't getting anywhere like this indeed it felt as though she were the one losing ground here perhaps she ought to give him an order tell him to shut his mouth for the duration of the warno if things continued at this rate she risked damaging her relationship with Berserker to use them on frivolous things would be the height of fallacy if he turned on her and she didn't have anything to hold him back the thoughts sent a small shudder through her perhaps reconciliation was best after all perhaps there was childish of me she sawed shaking her head you're forgiven just be on your best behavior in there the last thing we wanted do is make foes of the church I have enough enemies already no tricks from you no pranks nothing understand Naruto blinked why the long face he beamed I'm always on my best behavior Master shiky little you are aware that I still have three command spells I can use she held up her marked Hand for emphasis don't push your luck before her eyes the whiskered Warrior's face lost all color and he took half a step back Master masteron Jee wait you wouldn't really use those on me would you for such a petty reason a muscle jumped in Jean's jaw herker by the power of my command and seal I hereby order you to fine fine her servant flung up his arms in exasperation as they cleared the path to the church kill all the fun put the fun in camps why don't you I won't do anything gez why did she feel like she' just kicked an innocent puppy although I make no promises for later events never mind she wanted to strangle him with a groan the Magus pinched the brow of her nose in a vain attempt to Stave off an impending migraine in the same vein she understood Naruto wasn't acting this way towards her out of spite if anything her servant was simply being Lively he didn't seem to understand why she was so angry with with him in the first place let alone hauling him off to church first thing in the morning it wasn't even the inquiries that had annoyed her in the first place rather her lot in life such Misfortune she still couldn't believe she'd summon such an unlikely Berserker as her Ally in this war a different one- mind ya with his sanity apparently well in hand and several Noble fantasms besides but a Berserker still one with seemingly no end of pra and a mouth to match after witnessing the sheer overwhelming presence accompanying his summoning well she didn't want to see what set off his Madness enhancement and now she was bringing him into an encl CL space Oh this could only end poorly oi Master H what a finger thrust past her towards the church we've got company you know Jee followed his gaze and froze now she was a monster specialized in combat Someone Who removed the opposition without Mercy yet in the shadow of this individal as Mon and Icey Shard of fear raced down her spine a rough and fearsome looking man awaited them near the entrance to the church and the sight of him momentarily brought Gene up short his mere presence carried with it a thick stench of and gunpowder emanating from his entire body dark sunglass concealed his eyes not so his wild brown hair it spilled behind him in an unruly man that he made no attempt to tame he didn't Flinch away from their approach if anything the sight of them seemed to Intrigue him and he turned openly to face them even if he hadn't Jean would have recognized the distinctive scar on his Visage this face belonged to one of the few Magi she genuinely respected if not pied for the strange hand fate had thrown him one she'd worked with before at that his was a face you didn't forget Tyrie cigu yo the gruff man raised a hand a small smile plucking at his weathered features long time no see Jean I heard you were part of the Red Faction too but then his Gaz settled upon nuto so this is your servant Jean expected a scene as such she found herself almost pleasantly surprised when her normally recalcitrant servant nudged past her blue eyes traveled up and down sizing the formidable Necromancer up from head to toe whatever he found there must have pleased him because He barked out a laugh nice taicha the blonde beamed expressively extending a hand the name's Naruto why the hell did he just use his true name Jean's head whipped around with such force that she nearly smacked herself in the face with her own ponytail Berserker with the blonde pouted we're on the same side aren't we sides he smells trustworthy Berserker huh sisu actually blinked at that after a moment's consideration he accepted Naruto's hand and shook it um this is honestly the first time I've had someone call me something like that ha a new voice intruded what do you mean Master he doesn't look like a Berserker to me a swirl of agitated Prana heralded his servants arrival and releasing sissu Naruto turned to face the newcomer oh unlike Berserker this one stood clad entirely in gleaming silver armor with Crimson accents from head to toe not a single piece of skin could be seen by the naked eye a fearsome helmet concealed their face that horn faad regarding them with frightening dispassion this was saber then it had to be Jean reasoned no other class save that could be so magnificently adorned or exuded such Majesty perhaps had she been able to see into her servant's mind she would have seen the gears turning Nudo for one immediately found himself fascinated by the armored Warrior that blank featureless Helm regarded them with a hint of annoyance so much so that he momentarily forsook is placed by his master's side and approached his fellow Warrior are you sure you're not assassin they repeated dead Penning you're scraw looking weak in the corner of Jean's peripherals Berserker stiffened imperceptibly at the slight oi no cisu side saber don't go picking unnecessary fights alas his admonishment proved itself too little too late but Master huki cuckoo Naruto laughed suddenly drawing All Eyes to him indeed he cackled like an old man concealing his mouth with a curled hand saber was it that's funny coming from one such as you oh no Jean knew that look that look meant nothing good hey the warrior tilted their head what's so funny you say I'm assassin yet you're the one hiding her face Naruto retorted still chuckling I just find it funny are you that afraid of me saberin now it was Jean's turn to tilt her head chin cigu swore [ __ ] saber twitched just so boy want to say that again bastard oh dear Berserker replied with an impish grin thumbing at his nose did you not hear me sabera on he let his syllables drag over the last word I may be an old man at heart but my senses are still sharp to drive the point home he sniffed once for emphasis whomever you are under that helmet of yours you're definitely a girl I don't know why you're trying to hide it really I've known plenty of strong women in my day and none of them concealed their identities and yet you've made every effort to hide yours which means you have something you don't want anyone to see yes something to be ashamed of crunch a muffled grunt Herald at Naruto's abrupt departure from Jean's side in the same instant a distant building imploded upon itself throughout his little Ty the saber of red had continued to Twitch with increasing frequency within moments she'd been out outright quivering with rage no one had seen her move until just now quiet suddenly she'd snapped that does it before Jean's very eyes saber menacing helmet inexplicably folded inward upon itself to reveal her concealed face aqua green eyes burned with Fury framed by flax and hair bound back behind her head and a full mouth set in a dangerous snarl Jean had but a moment to behold the young woman's Savage Beauty before the known Masked Warrior loosed a bestial snarl gathered both legs beneath her and leaped the subsequent wave of pressure shattered the street and launched saber forward at near explosive speed though admittedly far slower than her last punch had proven as both Masters looked on in silent exasperation a distant cloud of smoke heralded her own landing near where she'd launched him damn cisu muttered should have warned him about that Jean sweat dropped slightly warned him about what sabr and very fond of being called a girl a distant explosion echoed his words aren't you going to stop her a the necromance are Shrugged it' be a waste of a command seal she'll calm down soon enough if your Berserker is half the servant I think he is he'll be fine for a fleeting sliver of a second Jee wed if Saber had actually managed to kill Berserker with that attack indeed she shivered at the thought anyone who wielded such power couldn't be called human not by any stretch of the imagination such was the unknowable existence that was as a servant a faint crackle of Thunder followed by a distant streak of scarlet and gold told otherwise as she looked on a bolt of light arked across the sky like a thunderbolt thrown by Zeus himself wild and arcing in its path was this a noble fantasm or with a faint fur of Golden Light Berserker reappeared his coat slightly singed but otherwise relatively unharmed arm Med a black eye and a red stain on his shoulder revealed where he'd been struck by saber yet even as she looked on those wounds healed as though time minutes left were being undone o m I asked her I'd step back if I were you he cackled I'm pretty sure she's right behind mops damn trickst her hold still scarce had he spoken then saber crashed down behind him brandishing her wide blade like a Lance hey that last attack tickled Naruto grinned idly dusting his coat down want to try again he immediately ducked as she lobbed her blade at his head oh I say that [ __ ] again morid snarled I Dare You Again mker mimicked Darkly hydera snarling the two blondes buted heads you want to go for real whiskers Bring It On ponytail fine by me great H nuta was already in motion by the time she struck out again careful you'll poke an eye out rather than twist out of the blades path he grabbed the edge of her weapon and heaved it toward the center of his body mass a fraction of a second later in MD's momentum caught up with her arm tugging her helplessly along behind it Aqua eyes narrowed as she realized what he intended the bastard was pulling her forward by the blade with the intent to slug her in the face thereby forcing her to either releasee said Hilt and strike out at him or hold on tight and risk a debilitating blow well she'd show him see how the bastard liked a headbutt when he tried to yank her weapon out of her wrong the Knight of rebellion had time for a single startled Yelp before Naruto ignored her blade completely forsaking defense andalo the blade to bite deep into his stomach then emerge out his back in a gristly red spray if Naruto was at all faced by The Towering blade jutting from his stomach he did little to show it with his free hand he lunged forward past her and seized A Fistful of her hair blue eyes burned before for her vision o not blue she realized without mounting disbelief they turned red when she wasn't looking in ground breath burst out of her lungs as Berserker whipped her face first into the Earth by the hair the sheer force of it ripped the air out of her lungs and she coughed momentarily winded instead of finishing her off however a booted foot filled her vision nudged her side rolled her over a grunt echoed punctuated by a wet squelching sound as her opponent tore her Blade free moments later it clattered to the floor just out of her reach even as she grasped at her blade Aqua eyes regarded the wound that gaping whole staring down at mortared and Crimson relief no not a whole to her dismay the wound simply Unwound itself revealing healthy pink skin okay okay I get the point hot point that's rich her boot caught him in the end he stumbled back laughing what are you a zombie morid snarled how the hell are you still standing o ah just like a lover who's as boiling with passion a stark cultured voice interjected before he could finish yes yes yes that's the way fight to your heart's content this will make a fine prologue All Eyes master and servant alike turned toward this fesh voice a horse they cried a horse my kingdom for a horse groaning morri clamored wearily upright in the end Berserker beat her to it who the hell are you please my lord your words break my heart continue as you were instead of another Warrior they found themselves staring at a fishlyn extravagant clothes to match with quill in hand he hastily scrawled into a book dating everything all that he saw and reproducing it as a grand play he cared not a wit for the weapons level at him indeed he appeared ignorant to their very existence in his mind all that existed was the story The Pen the the play a true tragedy was even now being slavishly written as all words must be wrought Mor's I twitched oi who the hell gave you permission to write about us you damned heck to WR n how can you spout such Dil you wound me the man staggered back as though he'd been physically struck I am merely recording this Grand Tale As It unfolds an a front to my works is an a front to myself Shakespeare jeans I twitched this is I don't even know how to respond to that why are you here to observe of course the nowed servant sketched an extravagant bow such with such drama how could I as Caster of red resist recording such an opportunity please continue as you wear you Ark a brick sailed out of Naruto's hand and collided with the poet's skull with that the last of the tension drained out of the street and those inhabiting it I think that's enough don't you saber sisu side he's learned his lesson by now oi Master whiskers started it want me to finish it why you we're on the same side the necromance are drawed don't go killing your allies werker the same applies to you Gan quipped that's an order nuto and morid exchanged a tur angry glance for a moment just a moment Jean worried then to the dismay and disbelief of all parties present both blonde burst into laughter nuto extended a hand and this time mortared firmly grasped it hauling herself to her feet The Battered Knight used his body as a pillar to stand upon doing so she immediately slapped an armored hand against the Ninja's unarmed back staggering him for his part the Berserker laughed the blowoff and returned her blade to her saber accepted it gladly planting it tip first in the street for support what the hell was that punch back there whiskers that [ __ ] hurt I could say the same thing about that kick you're crazy we've got to do this [ __ ] [ __ ] again later no holding back you read my mind name the time and place and aside how the hell are you alive well I've got crazy regeneration no kidding so about Caster M cker offered a grin well we could as the unlikely allies continued their equally unlikely conversation both their masters could only go near moments ago saber and Berserker had for all intensive purposes tried to kill one another that they were now squabbling over the time and place of their rematch as well as trading friendly insults was a ttis concerting all things considered an Unstoppable Force had met an immovable object and in the end neither had yielded indeed it seemed both parties were better off for their little Spar besides in the end sisu was the one to recover his voice first wait to did they just become friends now Jean pmed her face in a fit of Bleak dismay he's an unlikely Berserker after all sisu Shrugged might as well go in together then with a grunt the scarred man turned and rested the doors to the church open the sudden sound of rusted hinges immediately captured their attention oi Berserker saber he called stop tying up Caster we're going wait a minute don't get ahead of us a humble Cathedral awaited them within its candles unlit its many pews empty before the altar a lone man knelt his head bowed and Ben addiction Naruto set his tongue softly at the sight churches had never sat well with him nor did the idea of a higher power he'd fought one goddess already he didn't relish the idea of charging headlong facing another l so the sight of the man clad in dark robes at the foot of the altar with his back to him he couldn't see his face but that crop of unruly white hair still stirred something in him anxiety this is the designated place sisu be began roughly were you the one who called us silently the kneeling man Rose turned to face them greetings he welcomed them with a small smile I am the supervisor of this war shirro camine humbly the priest sketched a small bow towards each of them and shook their hands towards one individual above all the others and the rest it's a pleasure to finally meet you Berserker of red Aro eyed the extended hand with vague interest almost imperceptibly his gaze narrowed looking back he couldn't say what it was that made him distrust the priest perhaps it was his smile maybe it had something to do with his eyes if might even have been the hair who knew regardless of the case he didn't believe the young man nor did he trust him there was just an air about him a curious aloofness behind his smile that reminded him of an old enemy he'd once fought in the past this priest radiated the same sensation as that one ah so this was what it felt like to experience fear again he'd almost forgotten after all these years in the end it saved both their lives noted we leaving Jean oh wait a second she had Ascent it had taken her a fair amount of time in the an hour avento track but she'd finally succeeded here in the late hours of the morning morning credit where it was due Berserker had done well to elude her for so long against any other servant he might have eliminated any and all traces of his presence but she was above all things a Huntress a Tracker without peer no one could equal her in the art for all his caution he'd failed to take into account the matter of his scent even now it lingered in the air a hey scent of PR leading East mixed with something she couldn't quite identify no matter with her speed it was only a matter of time now she supposed it wasn't fair of her to use such a method to find him yet she had no other recourse shards of light burst through the clouds ahead of her and she avoided them choosing to stay to the shade of the trees the sanctity of the earth and soil it was here that she was most at home not sprinting about in the open or racing headlong through the sky unlike a pair of men she knew for someone who should have been a Berserker Naruto was very good when it came to concealing his presence the first she' nearly followed the Second Source faint to be sure but also him another clone of his a challenge somehow the throne Gauntlet only made atanta all the more determined to succeed If This Were a race then she wanted to be the one to Triumph to come out on top to snatch Victory like the victory she had been so cruy denied so long ago she would have the final say this time regardless of what writer said that damn fool of a man who did he think he was budding his nose into matters that didn't concern him the thought irritated her with every Leap each stride only serving to further exasperate the huntress she wouldn't put it past him to race her there just to annoy her he teased her of course but this time there had been an edge to it the two of you are more alike than you know what did that mean more than that berserker's own words lingered I want to help you achieve that dream in the end she'd set out for the city towards its stronger roaring presence Atlanta had many questions and she suspected he held the answers the clone's journey was finally coming to an end with the incessant heat of the afternoon sun beating relentlessly down on its head it was almost grateful it had traveled far across Romania indeed much further than one might expect it of a simple cage bunion leagues upon leagues Spann its Journey from trius to Cur then finally Bucharest virgin with far more chra than its lesser Brethren the blonde doppelganger had covered these great distances in a single day uncaring of what or whose saw all in search of a single goal its mission was of Paramount importance and its severity could not be understated the very outcome of the Holy Grail War might hinge on its actions here tonight after all this was the task assigned it by the original to wander to search to see this world was wonderful and wide and so very new and they knew next to nothing about it for a ninja such a crippling lack of intelligence could easily prove fatal but he wasn't here to gather Intel on the enemo any sliver of information would be gladly welcom at that task fell to another clone his purpose was far more mundane by comparison though no less vaita it was here to record potential fallback points set up safe houses observe then report back and the like this might be little more than a game for Naruto but for his master the risks were terribly horribly real she only had one life after all any enemies it encountered were to be reason with of course you were was the fun and leaping into a fight unprepared but if it came to blows it had been given a very specific set of seals seals which would cause the rich chakra pra in its veins to violently self-destruct and take the enemy with it one might call it a suicide mission but the Clone was content with that this was its purpose after all if it perished in the outing then it would simply return to the original and be recreated again its thoughts its Memories the very essence that made it him would live on in the original the Clone was content with that at any rate it had completed its task and surveyed the whole of Romania several fallback positions had been marked in case of an emergency stockpiles of food and water were safely stored underground or secreted Away by Hired Hands people were happy to follow orders so long as they were being paid for their services what didn't it matter where the coin came from if it weren't for that Dan class penalty the original would have simply summoned a small army and been done with it but alas it was not to be this was the hand they'd been dealt by the throne and they would just have to work around it perhaps if they'd been summoned as assassin they'd be able to use horatian more reliably as it stood his father's Infamous Jutsu was going to do him precious little good as Berserker any use he might have gotten out of it was negated by another annoying penalty a single use would break each of the nine Kanai he held Sunder them beyond all hope of repair he'd had to be terribly selective about seeding them one had been planted near the distant in case of emergencies but the others frankly it was more than a little Annoying indeed the Clone Was preparing to dispel itself when a spike of pra caught its attention help the word stabbed at him twisting in his mind oh you've got to be kidding me did I get spotted or something like a sharp knife thrust through its gut so toed the Clone Lurch to the side its back slamming against a nearby wall almost painfully close in its proximity the sudden swell of energy lit up his senses in a blazing storm of light only to fail and fade just as quickly as though someone had pulled the plug on an exception powerful spell and left the remnants to gutter out and die or they've been interrupted violently neither should have been impossible improbable at the very least the odds of someone summoning less than a block away were impossible absurd and yet his body didn't hesitate uncaring for the scene it made the Clone flung itself out of the alley and into broad daylight a single leap carried him upward toward one of the taller buildings bringing him within reach of what he sought his good hand locked around a Weather Vein using the momentum to swing himself upwards to safety both fetal liting on a rusted fire escape uh this was the place then kicking off the metal rail he propelled himself forward and through the nearest window he found Bits Of Broken Glass and Metal lashed at his crossed arms as he crashed through Landing in a pointed Crouch him the room was larger than he thought a sprawling expanse with a towering bed to match it wre of luxury the kind most would kill to attain in a single lifetime alone never mind several gilded curtains Twisted under his boots as he stood crushing glass underfoot someone's Workshop no doubt and a rather Gody one at that yet something was off the scenta filled his nose when he inhaled a coppery Tang both everywhere and yet nowhere lives have been taken here many of them a Tang of Despair filled his lungs when he breathed the bitter grudges of the slain and the Depart of assaulting his senses he' expected to find the enemy waiting for him within or a Magus someone or something resembling a threat to his person at the very least not th instead he found wide walls alongside a man missing both his jaw and an arm as well a woman with her guts torn out a cursory glance confirmed that the former was still alive if only just alas the same could not be said for the woman she'd gone down hard and lay sprawled over what he could only assume was a summoning apparatus of some sort of circle carved using her own as an inscription stwn ha Hazard over the floor her innards hung about in gristly relief whomever she was she hadn't died well had she managed to M the other before she died no there was something else in here rather soneo this time it wasn't that that made nuto Bach go stop stop stop avert their eyes curled between them in the fetal position lay a stained wisp of a girl clad in atire entirely too scandalous given her age despite all the original had seen and remembered in his many years this easily exceeded the bounds of reason just what in blazes was she wearing what kind of lowly Exposition was this sputtering he hastily wrapped his cloak around her shoulders without a second thought a tiny muffled whimper greeted his Noble efforts and a small hand felt its way around his as he looked on a pair of faded golden eyes peaked out of the tented fabric framed by a mess mop of Ashen hair particles of fresh Mana wafted from a deep wound in her thin frame and fading relief Vanishing into the air as she gazed up at him in that instant he became frightfully aware of what she was she had no presence not at all none assassin his hackles Rose and the fingers of his right hand Twisted into top claws at his side forming an edge harder than steel a single twitch would drive that hand through her heart and end her life at least in theory maybe someone like sassu could have done that killed the child in cold without pause with no remorse but Naruto he couldn't and his clone quickly came to the same conclusion to strike at someone who looked so pitiful so helpless ohon who'd done nothing to him oh hell no he muttered sorry boss I can't do it I'm not killing a kid stirred by his words the girl blinked up at him blury mommy irk in his youth he'd been horribly awkward with children now he was an old hand addict having great-grandchildren did that to a man careful not to expose his flank he crouched down beside the wide girl ready to spring away if she attacked she didn't appear to have any Weaponry on her person but he'd learned that lesson well with Atalanta any servant could someone their weapon in an instant even a dying one he wasn't about to take her lightly titty her perhaps and stay by her side until she died of course but underestimate her never he'd seen too many friends nearly died of vindictive enemies on their last legs if this little one tried anything anything at all she'd regret it but until then hey there he hummed stroking the small of her back what's your name kiddo Jack she rased weakly and cold I want to go where it's warm where it's warm Naruto blinked mhmm her hands fisted around the lapels of his coat tugging weakly at first but with surprising strength abruptly they pushed inward seeking the skin beneath sharp nails dug into his flesh hey wait just a second their blue eyes took in their white surroundings and a Gastly PA of realization dawned on him where its warm a fur of danger warned him of her intent and he batted her questing Palms away with firm gentleness servant or not the strength of Jack was many tears below his own and he overpowered her with ease something dangerous furred in the wounded servant's eyes and the sight of it made him clamp down hard on her wrists in spite of her Struggle No No he admonished her wagging a finger none of that I'd like to keep my guts where they are she tilted her head at him in silent confusion but I'm cold then I'll warm you up another way here with a grunt he scooped the dangerous girl up in his arms and led her to the bed KN not like that in a series of quick strides nimbly evading the worst of the gore he plopped her down on the mattress and began to bundle her up in the low hanging sheets the rest he tore feet to create an impromptu cloak of sorts for the silent servant all the while those golden eyes never left him Berserker suspected she was watching him just as much as he was watching her each waiting for the slightest sign of hostility if he knew she was a servant she likely knew the same about him jack he hummed as he worked as much to distract himself as her that sounds kind of familiar why don't you feel real she asked abruptly the Clone tittered softly at her inquiry because I'm not just a clone but you Berserker him her sudden statement elicited a slight pause in him nothing more with age came experience after all he might be somewhat restrained in this form than he'd like but with his youth restored none of that mattered with his current level of strength he could fight for days without rest and his own reserves of chakra were pleasantly topped off by his master's Bountiful supply of Prana even he a mere clone could give any enemy a run for their money in the unlikely even that things devolved into a battle between him and assassin he remained confident in his victory of course his Pleasant smile reflected absolutely none of the inner machinations of his mind nope not at all that's right he supplied I'm Berserker but you can call me Naruto and you're assassin aren't you mmm her head bobbed in agreement I'm Jack Jack the Ripper this time the throne supplied the rest nuto hissed out of breath Jack the Ripper he just struck up a conversation and acquaintance at the very least with one of the most prolific serial killers in history might just be easier to let her disappear safer certainly clearly something had gone wrong during her summoning and she'd attacked her Summoner the sacrifice he'd use it potentially as a catalyst appeared to have perished during the ritual as well recently at that judging by the warmth of her body it wouldn't be much of a stretch to assume she was a sacrifice mean to empower the ritual clearly Jack had taken issue with that and named her master to the point where he would both be unable to speak or otherwise issue orders to her for the duration of the war the thought made Naruto shake his head it was pure chance that he'd even been in the area at all during her summoning a few seconds later and he would have been gone dispelled and sent back to the original without so much as a second thought for any of this the irony wasn't lost on him don't suppose you'd be down for a truce he posited watching her carefully if she was a servant of black sure you're nice her soft reply nearly floored him outright are you sure you're not my mommy Naruto's jaw nearly struck the floor that was easy irk eh I'd prefer Big Brother honestly he admitted recovering with a small shrug no matter which was you slice it definitely not mother material K Jack hopped off the bed shaking off the sheets to expose herself idly he noticed her wound was no longer visible strange did she have independent Acton or had she simply healed he was fairly certain she didn't he knew full well he had a passive healing skill thanks to that Mark of his but did that extend to those he considered allies perhaps it did regardless he didn't have to worry about the girl fading away now of course that still left the matter of her mangled Master lying in the corner slowly bleeding out he supposed he could tend to the man's injuries and save his life but regenerating a jaw that would be we can call you that assassin lilted commanding his attention we've never had a big brother before she touched a finger to her chin considering the word rolling it on her tongue him brother she spoke slowly frowning to herself Naruto Onin a blonde and question bit back a small smile at her childish behavior odd why was she referring to herself as we strange that first time for everything I suppose so we good a wide beautific smile blossomed on her face Onin with a startling burst of speed Jackie slammed into him the Clone tensed expecting an assault of some sort only to realize his mistake she hadn't attacked not in the least she was hugging him crushing her face into his stomach little arms squeezing his back for all she was worth an old memory fed through the annals of the clone's mind H he remembered being embraced like this before first by his children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren thereafter old memories good memories a strange warm feeling blossomed in his there there he sighed musing her hair good girl jack hum happily and nuzzled her head deeper into his cloak presumptuous though it might be for one leading such a fleeting existence as this the Clone decided to take pity on Assassin he knew a lost Soul when he saw one in this girl now it wouldn't be a stretch to say she was several countless Souls CEST into one body with one mind one purpose one drive the desire to live he could understand that sympathize with it even what was wrong with living it wasn't a sin to be alive after all what you did with your life wealth that determined your worth in life this one Jack he reminded himself had been denied even that she didn't need to rest she needed a purpose a reason to live Teddy he couldn't think to give her one honestly he almost felt sorry for the poor thing her luck was even worse than his he here Onin Jack piped up distracting even have at first Naruto clone didn't understand her wait a minute what do you mean until his hand roared in pain what in blazes he looked down oh hell in disbelief he gaped at the Crimson Mark now staining the back of his hand etched in the Twisted shape of a dagger pommel Hilt and blade a strange alri tattoo in the shape he'd never seen before yet was terribly familiar with all the same after all he'd seen a similar mark on Jean's hand he knew what it meant but he didn't understand how by rights it should have been impossible his eyes didn't deceive him though he squinted and scrubbed furiously at his face the same Mark remained the mark and all the power that came with it as he looked on it pul read ordinarily a clone couldn't sustain any sort of real injury but he had been reinforced with that very idea in mind he could endure at least three life threatening blows before the chakra comprising and sustaining his body evaporated theoretically such an act would render him smoke his experiences and memories would then be transferred to the original the process of transferring command seals to him hadn't been painful but at the same time it had put UND stress on his already failing body ordinarily that wouldn't have bothered him but unfortunately the damn spells had recognized him as a temporary being being and thus raced right through his link the original and lashed on for all they were worth sure enough the Clone experienced a beat of incredulous surprise from its creator damn it he hadn't known she could do that Jack tilted her head did I do something bad the Clone pmed his face groaning no no you didn't do anything wrong yes yes she had terribly bad horribly bad the original was going to utterly murder him for this never had the shadow clone been so thank for his ability to dispel as far as it was concerned this wasn't his problem anymore nope let him deal with it pivoting to face the petite assassin the Clone side and raised his freshly marked Hand in Command right then Jackson I need you to listen very carefully to what I'm about to say by the power of this command spell I order you to they're not following seems like it Kyrie cigu risked a wey glance over his shoulder and found himself somewhat relieved to find that his servant had spoken true relieved and moderately concerned neither that damn priest or his servant had made any attempt to Trail them after they gone and refused their offer of Alliance but he couldn't say the same of Jee with any certainty after the grand scen Berserker had made back there he expected kmine would likely retaliate against him and his master sometime in the near future and that just wouldn't do sisu was admittedly rather fond of Jean the woman took absolutely no nonsense from anyone and they'd worked well together in the past she could be a bit of a recluse at times but she took great pride in her work ethic and always saw a job through to the end it just wasn't in her to make rash decisions without thinking things through it was in part the reason she'd survived where others failed if someone made the Monumental mistake of riing her they faced long exacting Vengeance a bibliophile though she might be the woman packed a mean punch she was going to get herself killed in this war if she wasn't careful her cirker seemed skilled to be sure but if that woman was who he thought she washed be in for a bad time still Mort had told him the truth after all of course she had saber wasn't the sort to lie it wasn't that she lacked the moral fiber to do so rather she was simply Too Proud to ever consider a deception even now her rough voice echoed through their bond words buzzing about in his head like a swarm of irritated Hornets as he left the church behind and entered Aly they haven't left the church even an assassin would have to materialize to attack she growled I'm too good to let that happen and that Berserker guy doesn't seem the type fair enough he relented Master why wouldn't you work with them you didn't want to either sisu pointed out that was just a gut feeling Sabre retorted petulant he could almost see her Crossing her arms in a fit of righteous indignation that sami's woman smelled like my mother women like that must never be trusted not ever besides that was watching him watching who ha whiskers of course cisu nearly missed a step this was a trap yes definitely a trap a landmine he absolutely refused to step on to suggest otherwise meant Doom to even imply that saber was fond of the blonde or experiencing such sentiment was just asking for a knuckle sandwich no he might even lose his life if his tongue slipped right now wisely he chose to ignore her brief bout of jealousy and press on as if nothing had happened yes ignorance was the key he'd seen what she had done to Shakespeare and that poor bastard was still alive so long as he pretended nothing had transpired between the two of them he would keep his head maybe then it was the right decision he amended I trust your intuition a beat of awkward silence passed between master and servant well thanks I'm glad my Master's not some booting sucker ah but not too glad medium glad aha mored manifested beside him in a swirl of Mana her abrupt arrival momentarily taking him back as did her craze grin without pause her preer and explanation Knight of rebellion bounded straight past him and rounded the nearest corner at near impossible speed then she hit something or perhaps someone hit her t L more like a startled grunt greeted csu's ears punctuated by a brief struggle as someone flung a rough curse and crashed into a wall the Ruckus almost made the old Necromancer smile morid must have bitten off more than she could chew because she started squawking immediately I don't pull my hair Berserker I'm sorry I jumped you a right ah but your ponent Tails just so fluffy a familiar voice C I can't resist and yet you get so mad when anyone calls you a morri growled I will gut you Berserker was waiting for cigu when he finally found them indeed he was treated to an almost comical sight somehow the whiskered warrior had managed to pin saber against the ground trapping both arms behind her back and was now batting at her hair with his good hand while the other held her down probably best that he'd intervened mortar looked like she was about to bring the entire block down on their heads if he didn't get off her suo wait as he approached Berserker grinned and clamored off the enraged night nimbly leaping onto an adjacent rooftop out of her reach before her blade found something tender hey leave my bits alone saber I need those you know unfortunately this wasn't enough to stop mrid get down here and I'll chop him bastard berserker's body wriggled playfully uh scary I don't want to why you little saber mortar didn't quite Flinch when sisu barked at her but she did growl for a fleeting moment cigu wondered if she'd disobey Berserker certainly excelled at getting under her skin tenuous friendship or no she was looking more than a little alert oi Master that's not fair he started it so did you by sneaking up on him the Necromancer admonished her let it go you can stick him full of holes if he does it again morid managed a murderous mule promise a bker squawked from his precarious perch where are you aist I'm not Immortal that'll kill me Toc H saber folded both arms across her plate fine spoil sport on one condition I want close close AO and sisu blinked as one H don't give me that look it's not my fault I just can't stand walking around in my armor all day it doesn't feel comfortable so mortared sulked stomping a booted foot against the ground for emphasis either man up and buy me something else to wear or I'll make you use a command seal the Knight threatened your choice Master he really did have a Troublesome servant fine fine just put your sword away before someone sees with a please hum the warrior Knight did as she'd been commanded right you can come down now zombie I promise I won't murder y it always nice to see cooler heads prevail Berserker snarked down at them snapping off a faux salute before dropping back down off the roof to slide down the wall I'm glad you made it out of that place in one piece sisu heaved a silent sigh of relief these two they just might be the most dangerous servants in the entire War if they ever fought seriously their surroundings as well as anyone unlucky enough to be caught in the crossfire would be utterly annihilated in the blank of an eye in that aspect alone it was critical to keep them from fighting in a populated area should they unleash their Noble fantasms in broad daylight for everyone to see well that wasn't something the association would be able to sweep under the rug easily yes it was absolutely imperative he kept the peace between these two even if it threatened to tear him apart so why'd you run out of there like the anyway mortared muttered flushing were you scared or something no a sour look flashed across his face I just don't trust that shitty priest he reminds me of aam madora so I got my master the hell out of there mortar tilted her head a questing note in her tone madora a someone who died a long time ago no one you need to concern yourself with anyhow grinning the blonde Berserker smacked a clenched fist into an open Palm as much as I'd like to finish what we started back there I'm here on official business this time around um a pause followed as he coughed into a fist and shifted his weight to his right leg allowing the true weight of his words to sink in to put it bluntly my master would like to request an alliance with the two of you frankly I'm all for it his hand Rose Palm offered in Friendship why do you say a beat of Silence passed between the three of them she probably wants information considering you dragged her out of there in a huff before she learned anything sisu amended with a small smile regretting that now aren't you the blond's expression turned sheepish he made a pinching motion just a little huh Mor growled aloud suddenly peering the blondes outstretched intensely when the blonde didn't reply she seized his outstretched Limb and hauled him close for his part Berserker didn't resist only uttering a soft noise of confusion when his fellow blonde hauled off and grabbed him those Aqua orbs weren't focused on his face indeed it didn't exist to her in that moment her Fierce gaze was focused firmly upon his extended hand with a laser-like intensity ignoring all else sisu followed his gaze and felt his heart still he knew those markings oi frowning saber Drew him closer still since when did you have fraking command seals on your hand those weren't their back at the church nuto side bit of a story they are it if we're going to be allies we shouldn't keep secrets turning his head to a vacant rooftop he snapped his fingers jigs up Jack come out come out wherever you are a faint Breeze registered behind s A's flank and then quite suddenly she was there MD's loud squawk spoke for him where' the chibi come from so that's the long and short of it say hello Jackie hello assassin waved happily Naruto drooped like a kicked puppy as Jee leveled a dark glower on his back one didn't need telepathy to know she was put out with her servant of course she had every right to be he'd gone off and done something incredibly foolish rather his clone head it could have easily backfired and wiped him out that it hadn't was something of a miracle he knew he should argue put up a fight at the very least after all all he wasn't at fault here Jack had been the one to transfer her command seals to him such a feat should have been impossible and it would have been had her master lived yet that didn't change the outcome besides he simply didn't have the will to try and argue semantics with his allies that was neither here nor there actions have consequences one of those consequences was currently squeezing his hand for all she was worth which was rather considerable know that he thought about it Onin she whispered I'm really hungry and don't you have enough Mana golden eyes gazed up at him but I'm hungry as if to punctuate that statement her stomach growled H don't worry I'll get you some hamburger or something before we head out okay having relocated to a more secluded location they were relatively safe from prying eyes Berserker didn't mind that if they were going to have a gathering at all then it was best done in secret away from the prying eyes of the black faction or those of a certain priest with only one entrance this location was relatively well guarded and had the added benefit of restoring their Mana at a healthy rate this was all well and good considering he burned a fair bit of Mana merely by supporting Jack's existence and that was handed cap enough on its own multiple bounded Fields also prevented anyone from ambushing them but did it have to be a crypt if there was one weakness he still hadn't parted with from his youth it was his fear of ghosts graveyards just didn't sit well with him judging by mid's Sullen expression she felt the same in regards to the alliance Jee made of a show of adjusting her glasses do we have an accord I don't see why not sisu Shrugged he' been upfront with us so far a fur of Torchlight momentarily rendered her glasses opaque and the Grail she pressed Jay scary woman well burn that bridge when when we come to it so we're in agreement that the zombie did the right thing W chimed nut's head whipped around with such force that those nearby felt his neck cracked by proximity alone a beat of Silence passed between the two servants followed by another the another still another just when sa was beginning to wonder if she ought to take back those words her fellow blonde blitzed her not an attack she realized too late seizing her in a crushing Embrace berserk her side in contentment and rowly nuzzled her face like a happy cat a crimson flush all but crawled up the knight's neck rapidly rising in her cheeks and flooding her face his scent filled her nose when she breathed and for a moment just a moment she was taken back Mort he wailed I knew I liked you you're all right his words reactivated her in a rush deaka get off of me now with a demented smile the rejuvenated blonde spun away and hid behind his master for her part Jean silently pomed her face and weathered sabr glow as a flush burned her ears this this was her servant the one she was supposed to entrust her well-being to why had the gods forsaken her Berserker behave yourself now sissu what's this about the ruler class grateful for the distraction The Necromancer stood at attention I'm afraid I don't know much about her beyond what I already mentioned he explained shaking his head if you're thinking of cultivating her as an ally I wouldn't she likely won't be around for long Naruto perked up what makes you say that call it a feeling that priest strikes me as the sort to metal Naruto nodded slowly absently thumbing his chin in quiet agreement noted a 15th servant as so when do we attack he inquired drawing several startled looks night night sounds good we've stolen a servant from the black faction and now you want to assault their base of oper ation sisu side won't that be like poking a hornet nest I wouldn't call it an assault oi what are you doing as they looked on the blonde simply sat down and tucked his legs beneath him settling into a peaceful meditative Crouch if he was at all annoyed by the sudden scrutiny he did little to show it he merely closed his eyes and gave a deep sigh of longsuffering one as Jack immediately plopped down beside him and claimed the vacant space between his legs for herself well this was somewhat awkward how was a man to focus when you had someone like her clinging to you his exasperation was only sharpened by the quiet and tensions he felt radiating from her poor thing just wanted to be close to him if on iten's going she puffed out her cheeks so am I the whiskered warrior Shrugged in defeat never once opening his eyes see just think of it as aggressive expansion Mor's smile bloomed oh I like it we don't know if the rest of the Reds can be trusted laruto pointed out turning his still closed gaze from his Crouch to peer at an equally excited morid I can vouch for at least one other person but I don't have a reliable method of contacting her and since my clone saw fit to use a command spell to summon Jack here we have three servants in instead of two saber Berserker assassin he fed a finger to each of them including himself in turn all things considered we lucky we have two front line Fighters and the rear guard Jean and sisu will stay here and provide support via command seals it might be best if we had one more but for a first assault I think the three of us will do Jack bristled in his lap four All Eyes save those of a certain blonde turned toward the entrance toward the faint sound of approaching footfalls Sabers blade snarled to life Naruto inhaled quietly a even with his eyes screwed firmly sh and sent cated on drawing the surprisingly resistant energy of this world Naruto felt a small smile tug at his cheeks well srau was finally taking a turn for the better at long last hell he felt like grinning he'd been hoping to contact her again but he simply hadn't possessed a reliable means of doing so beyond running her down for her to willingly seek him out meant she either had an annoying large bone to pick with them or her intentions were more noble from what he knew of her Legend he doubted it was the former likely the latter then through his six sense she blazed like a beacon of light inflicted perhaps yet also decisive fascinating scary scary he hummed tilting his head in her Direction I didn't even sense you coming until just now remind me never to piss you off slowly she stepped into the light Atlanta mortar didn't lower her Blade the hell is she Archer of red nuto chimed ran into her a little while ago didn't think she'd actually come after me though Atlanta's ears twitched in the end she acknowledged none of them neither Master nor servant her head turned taking in the dim surroundings of the crypt and the crude table they directed between the four of them emerald eyes narrowed upon the worm arment there reading the mapet at a glance only to dismiss it as well finally her piercing eyes locked onto him pinning him with the single-mindedness of a hunter seeking their prey there was fire in her eyes hot yet tempered by restraint instead of the anger he'd expected there was on the confusion werker and the blonde stirred from his meditative Crouch a gold eye finally creaking open need something furiously he felt her gay settle mount on him but rather Jack when next she spoke her voice almost faltered howo is that child in your lap everything set into place I'm Jack who are you perhaps please pleased to be acknowledged by someone other than her precious person Jack Rose from the blond's legs to Bar the huntresses path at least he assumed she was pleased her once expressive face had shut down replaced by a Steely look he'd not seen from her before in that instant Jack didn't exist she became Jack the Ripper no not pleased he realized wey alert cautious ready to slice up into Atalanta if she so much has twitched the wrong way surely Atlanta must have sense that she was a servant too yet she made no move to defend herself even as the petite girl conjured a dagger instead Archer's Visage was a riot of emotion disbelief confusion joy and a hint of fear all these furring feelings and more danced across her face there one moment and gone the next nuto read them all like an open book as if she couldn't decide whether to unleash her bodus Asis as such a close quarters battle would B her turn tail and run something had her spooked and he suspected he knew what it was still he held his silence if he spoke now he might easily send the volatile Archer over the edge and who knew where that would lead you are the Assassin of black tell me why are you with Berserker she inquired bluntly staring at her what does he do you oy mortar growled just what the hell do you think you're doing ignoring the rest of without so much as a glance Atlanta Loos three arrows into the wall opposite her the silent saber she replied in a dead voice this doesn't involve you once those harrowing orbs found Jack the Ripper this time Jack gave her reply gladly onich and saved me she answered beaming with all the innocence and guilelessness such as only a broken child could possess he heard my voice when no one else would he wrapped me in blankets when I was cold and told me I was safe he promised to feed me and take care of me eyes important it was like flipping a switch atalanta's hand descended for a second time not to attack but to ruffle assassin's Ash and hair this time there could be no mistake the Blissful expression on the girl's face beaming she leaned into the outstretched palm and hummed softly then Archer was past her Nimble skirting the small servant in favor of her master Naruto made no effort to rise indeed he remained right where he was meditating in spite of the danger if attacked in this position he risked suffering a fatal wound before he could defend himself even then he didn't move had he known her thoughts he might have through this single act alone he'd unknowingly endeared himself to the Nimble Huntress more than any mortal before him beyond that his actions warmed her heart not enough for her to consider breaking that sacred vow but enough to thaw the ice between them closer than before in this alone this simple act of kindness would become a catalyst that led to something extraordinary a miracle Beyond Miracles that act of defiance in which one turned their back on the heavens and another forsook the gods themselves but for now neither knew they I join you Naruto merely sighed hey sure plenty of room after a moment's consideration Archer claimed the space beside him I take it you have a plan to assault the black faction stronghold she posited after a long moment Theo frowned well we do but then I shall join you it wasn't a question but a command a beat of uneasy silence passed between the uneasy party Jee and cigu had held their tongues until this moment fearing the worst and trusting the servants to handle it now that they had diffused the tension they found themselves at something of an impass for another servant to Simply Walt in and join forces with another out of the blue it was unheard of at Atlanta of the the Red Faction had just done so without her master utterly baffled them Jack for her part was content to stay silent so long as her own itching continued patting her head like that and mored well did you seriously just saber opened her mouth to argue a crackle of awareness interrupted her of course one of the damn knives goes off now change of plans guys I'll be going on ahead see in trifas with a laugh Naruto vanished leaving a broken Kanai behind in his wake last he heard of them was an exasperated growl belonging to said Huntress not again then they were gone the world lurching and twisting around him in a swirling Vortex flashes of gold and red interposing with silver as he surrendered to the pull of the technique in this form it was very much a one-way Jutsu allowing for him to travel great distances at speed but at the cost of not being able to return so lightly this Kanai in particular had been the one he planted near the highway that it had triggered meant one of two things someone had either attempted to remove it or it had detected a threat against a third party it was the latter that worried him he'd never mastered H and in this limited capacity it was very much a double- sword if there was a ruler in this war and if she'd been attacked unfortunately he neglected a vital component in this the nine could be moved flung or thrown such as an explosion rendering it airborn and now by that very definition him reality rushed back with a dull Roar and a world's worth of momentum came with it fire furred in his vision forcing him to squint even as he plummeted to the Earth by the time his vision cleared he beheld a startled face that he hoped priad wasn't the ruler class servant by then it was already too late he couldn't have stopped even if he wanted to not that it mattered anymore whomever had drawn nearest to that con was in for a world of hurt and several broken bones besides he could make them pay for disturbing him at the very least even as he fell he saw them fighting two figures waged War like never before one a burning man the other a woman with striking gold hair that was all the information provided by his heightened Senses at this distance judging by the woman's efforts she was the one forced on the defensive yet still she fought on despite her opponent's lanate Lance yes there was definitely a lance of some sort which made the other one ruler H good well that was easy D YN m i and TR r y y d a t t EB a yo a pale face flashed before his vision this was all answer of red herd had time to see that brief searing flash as something fell out of the sky a rigid leg straight as an arrow that booted foot swooping towards him in a searing hurricane then a cackling Berserker drilled him headlong into the Earth as though he'd been struck by the hand of an Angry God t h w m NR G Frankenstein felt the explosion long before she saw it like a distant Rumble from Far Shores so too did she feel the Earth tremble beneath her feet as she picked a fresh bouquet of flowers it was a very nice explosion a small animistic part of her brain Muse the blast was very large very loud and more happily very bright even at this great distance one could see the mushroom rising out of what had once been the highway a few moments later a fresh burst of fire lit up the night oh pretty the Berserker spared the distant battle a moment more of her attention before doggedly returning to her task at hand in her eyes the fight didn't matter all the Servants of black bar one missing assassin were already assembled here at the castle which meant the battle raging outside of the castle limits was of no consequence to her her if the Red Faction wanted to fight amongst themselves that badly it suited her just fine regardless of the Victor they would come sooner or later and when they did a hand settled on her head musing her hair what do in r r r n g the cirker bolted to her feet and flailed her arms in spectacular fashion the motion scattering the flowers in her hands and launching them into the air an enemy here to her credit her brief moment of panic endured all of an instant before sense reasserted itself then she spun around and putting the full weight of her body into a single swing slammed her mace into her attacker Visage with all of her considerable might at least that had been her intention white teeth flashed out at her in the dark now now that wasn't very nice can't have you dispelling me just yet imagine her surprise then when a muffled grunt reached her ears and she found her assault stalled against an open Palm Al lone Crimson I blazed back at her from the Gloom the other hidden behind the unwieldy bulk of her weapon Claude fingertips closed around the business end of the Hefty mace and squeezed buckling the hardened metal of her favorite tool trapid cot in midswing a fur of surprise flitted across her expressionless Visage when one of the weaker servants she might well be but she still possessed superhuman strength more than render anyone she disliked into little more than stain the enemy had just stopped the very strike with one hand servant desperate thoughts skittered through her broken mind as she struggled against the Intruder to no avail for all her Mike Frankenstein found herself forced back one step then another and another yet another still though the other remained concealed behind his back though Sparks skittered from her weapon and into his flesh though she strained against him with all her might her opponent remained utterly unfaced no if purer had to give voice to his response as though she was loathed to do so say he looked almost happy right then let's move this thing so I can talk shunting her weapon down into the right the blonde slammed a booted foot against the mace trapping it with his foot against the soil in disbelief she tugged at it struggling to free her cherish tul to no aail as though it had well and truly become one with the garden so too did she find it impossible to move her mace what sorcery was this he couldn't possibly be this strong could he frantic a fresh surge of current course through her weapon and into the iron shod shoe holding her at Bay Instinct grounded against her destroy Crush kill her opponent merely left sorry I'm practically immune to lightning after all those spars with sassu back in the day leaning over her entrapped weapon he flashed her a sunny smile anyhow nice to finally meet you fellow Berserker he grinned at her with half- flitted eyes extending his no freed hand in what she could only assume to be a gesture of peace I Berserker wait no the blonde paused thumbing his chin they came out wrong I mean I am Berserker this time around but you're clearly also Berserker and OG this confusing it a wordless hiss with her soul response oi don't give me the silent treatment her attacker groused I know you can talk Frankenstein a muscle jumped in her jaw and she saw red bker a finger thrust itself in her face ey braz in defiance of her rage aha knew what I rest my case Madam she nipped at the outstretched digit until he withdrew it okay okay Berserker I know you can talk a little despite the madness enhancement so why tell you [ __ ] that's where do and girl a low growl Rose in her throat as the redhead tugged on her Mayan Wain for all the good it did her she may as well have been a child beating her fist against a boulder when her weapon still refused to be dislodged she channeled nearly all The Prana she had remaining into her mace under most cences this wouldn't have availed her much but in her fit of rage she made the mistake of overcharging her treasured tool in a frantic attempt to dislodge him with a deafening Roar blasted tree how to life beneath his boot its Perpetual engine threatening to engulf them both for the first time since they'd met Naruto's Pleasant what face lost its lazy smile hey wo wo wo stop you cast in The Pale glow of her ultimate attack Berserker of red flung up his hands don't waste your Noble fantasm on me you'll wipe yourself out on just a clone I'm here to scout not fight besides I come bearing gifts hrr n g Fran tilted her head the wrathful aura baited somewhat shees what is with servants in this war her stabbing a hand behind his back the blonde muttered crossly to himself as he unfurled the heavy scroll between his shoulders much to Fran Chagrin he showed none of the fear he displayed earlier rather he appeared wholly intent on withdrawing an item hidden within the strange material his Hidden Hand shot out presenting her a bouquet of immaculately picka if a tad crumpled by the ordeal flowers and full view of her hidden gaze a slow blink followed as she beheld them long and ponderous after a tense moment Fran reluctantly accepted them bringing them to her face she inhaled sweet almost cloyingly so hm with that he removed his foot from her mace and skipped back half a step C Naruto chirped watching her heft her mace I'm harmless really I just came her to Scout and lay the occasional prank butt when I saw you I couldn't help myself you look lonely hence the flowers so tucking his knees beneath him the blonde dropped to the floor and sat want to tell talk oddly enough Frankenstein found herself reminded of a large dog she'd once glimpsed in her the early days of her life for all its bark at the end of the day it had been a simple creature happy and eager to please had the blonde possessed a tail she suspected it would have been wagging much like that loyal mut though a part of her bristled at the idea the rest of her long for companionship Master meant well of course but he couldn't truly understand the aching Pang of loneliness that encompassed her existence and accompanied her every waking moment more importantly he wasn't here and she couldn't fault him for that he at least near the release of sleep she did not thus surely a little chat wouldn't be so bad after a moment's consideration Berserker sat beside him the ACT causing her wedding dress to bloom around her like a white lily talk she grounded out through gritted teeth I believe the lady should go first hrrm GH or not he plated raising his hands nuto must have understood that much for a chuckle followed so he inquired what do you want from this war got to be something right you wouldn't have answered the summoning otherwise Frankenstein returned her gaze to the picked Flowers in her hands AB conly squeezing them too personal sorry shouldn't have asked you partner she struggled with the word oh I get it that's not a bad wish a low grunt answered him new one and Ono much to her Chagrin the whiskered warrior didn't fault her decision it would have been easier if he had i' like to think there's somebody for everybody you know take my master for instance thumbing his chin he cast a scattered Field of Flowers a nostalgic glance she reminds me of my wife in my last life sure she's softspoken and gentle to those that know here but I know she'd sock me if I ever did something stupid in this war part of the reason why I intend to win it for her I'm curious to see what she'll ask the Grail what you think of yours you like him the stilted silence proved deafening let me guess that answer involves spoilers Frankenstein leveled a flat withering glare upon him gez you really aren't going to give up the goose on that are you a slow Shake of the head told him all he needed to know about that particular subject she did however point a finger at him oh my wish don't have one again those pearly whites flashed out at her this time in a genuinely boyish smile that had her heart skipping a beat I get to live again and in a younger body to boot to start over set out on a Grand Adventure meet new people it's a regular man's romance what more could I ask for Fran's expression didn't waver indeed her baffled scowl only intensified if looks could kill the blonde would be a smoldering pile of Ash you wound me Madam I'm not lying R RGH you know I could do something about that speech problem of yours her fellow Berserker flashed his marked Palm at her Madness enhancement isn't easy to Servant but it can be done if you have the right tools helps if you're mad yourself sure enough the strange shape on his palm seemed to ridee and twist before her eyes as she looked on here hold still a small pul struck her throat before she could protest earning him a dark look relax it doesn't last long it might cost me a bit of energy to make it permanent but I'm sure my master wouldn't mind too much why her voice emerged harsh and gring to her own ears Naruto snorted let me ask you this why not he replied resting his chin on a palm I like helping people kind of my thing if you hadn't noticed it's in my Legend and everything she hated it but I didn't ask didn't want to speak to him words threatened to burst out of her and with them all the pain of of her past don't talk don't speak she hated it feared the own sound of her words somewhere in the back of her mind a key turned and for a fleeting handful of seconds her mind opened and she found herself able to think coherently icy fingers have dread Trail down her spine and with an effort she mastered both them and her sudden sense of self ug if this was what it meant to be saying she'd happily sink back into Blissful Madness Fran chewed her lip and shook her head tucking her knees into her I can't please don't don't leave me like this hey you don't have to decide now the Scout soothed patting her shoulder like I said it's only temporary just know the offers on the table if you ever change your mind those piercing blue eyes seem to regard her for a long moment silently taking her measure before coming to a decision ah it he decided at last what would you say to a ceasefire I don't attack you you don't attack me sound good Fran at her head her bangs swaying just so to reveal a golden Iris what well you seem like an upstanding person and you actually listen to me Thea pointed out caster and Archer tried to skewer me before I even saw them in the castle so they can ride off Lancer seems like a stuck up bugger haven't seen Rider or saber yet but I doubt they'll listen to reason unless I tie them down and that it take way too much energy hergo a finger poked her horn you're it mural when she opened her mouth wordless gibberish emerged whatever fleeting remedy he'd inflicted upon her had run its course even then Berserker of red feted out her intent and bobbed his head in agreement what you want to know that how did I get up here he posited holding up a finger well I had to sneak into the castle the old-fashioned way scale the wall and everything even had to knock out a few homunculus on the way I'm pretty sure I tripped all manner of alarms also I may have nailed your Lancer with a stink bomb a few minutes before I ran into you so he's going to be there you are fiend as if to punctuate that very statement a hail of stakes descended from on high and skewered the Doppelganger from head to toe the Act was so sharp and sudden that Frankenstein found herself jerking backwards out of shock but rather than bleed the doppelganger merely boomed out a laugh though his body now resembled little more than a human pushin the Clone still retain the wherewithal the face the battlements and snap off a smart one fingered salute towards his would be killer nice try L her better luck next time see you later Fran the Clone flashed her a thumbs up and vanished in a plume of smoke leaving the gleaming hord of memories it had ulated to return to the original Jee dark had bore witness to many strange phenomena in her day saint of Orleans though she may well be she was no stranger to war in its trappings indeed one might call her a veteran of such an affair she'd long since learned to harden her heart both in and out of combat to accept wounding others is a necessary if painful level of battle sometimes conflict could not be avoided there were times when words failed and S W had to be drawn as the impartial mediator between the two factions and the representative for the great Holy Grail War she knew she'd have to defend herself sooner or later likely from other servants some of whom might even assault her outright finding herself under attack Straight Out The Gate L Alone by Lancer if red Wason something Jean had predicted per se but it was well within the range of her calculations yet what follow it that was new dynamic entry like a Thunderclap from on high a both of crimson tore through the clouds momentarily giving light to the night it was with a terrible foreoing that ruler turned her G a Skyward just in time to see someone or something rocket out of the sky and deliver a blazing drop kick to lancer's unprepared gut caught unawares the servant scarcely had time to grunt before his attackers momentum caught up with them a deafening explosion followed hot on the heels of the new arrivals Landing the sheer scope of which forced her to LEAP back just to escape the blast zone alone ruler wondered if she'd finally lost her mind yes she reasoned surely she must have nothing else made sense for Sone EV a servant to Simply fall out of the sky itself and crash headlong into her opponent was so absurd as to Bard Madness she knew for a fact that she didn't possess the x-rank luck the likelihood of a warrior commencing an orbital drop on someone was so ludicrous as to be non-existent it appeared so suddenly that she nearly checked her command seals out of habit just to make certain she hadn't utilized one by mistake him yes they were still there although she retained the ability to summon a servant of either faction to her side using such a seal she certainly hadn't so where or more apply who had just come to her rescue and he sticks The Landing a boisterous voice split the night booming with a poignant cackle thank you thank you baby thank I over much I'll be here all week folks despite her gentle nature ruler could feel the sweat drop upon the back of her head H now that was a dynamic entry the newcomer declared emphatically still unseen guy would have been proud as Jean looked on in quiet consternation a cloaked silhouette Rose from the fog and smoke gradually giving way to a brightly clad figure a broadb emerged bearing a crimson cloak and Hefty scroll over its shoulders elatedly she realized the newcomer was facing in the opposite direction her disbelief intensified once she realized he'd actually had the G to strike strike up a pose of all things one fist jutted Skyward a lone thumb fed upward in approval as if he were awaiting a photograph blue eyes emerged framed by whiskered cheeks and wild blonde hair a craze smile that had seen all the evils of the world and returned unscathed oh I see no that explained it she'd been saved by a hopeless idiot because this was most emphatically a servant still the question remained was this one friend or Foe wait this was no time for such Unbecoming thoughts shaking herself mightily ruler seized her flag mustered up the faltering scraps of her sanity and straightened her back back untimely though the rescue might have been she had no way of knowing if this individual would attack her on sight as Lancer had at a glance he didn't appear to possess a weapon of any kind but then again the lack of an Armament could hardly be caused for Relief he could be this war sa for all she knew speaking of classes she found it strange that she couldn't identify him whomever he was Mana leaked from him like a broken siiv no that wasn't quite it it wasn't that he leaked Prana but rather he couldn't seem to contain it the mere Act of breathing radiated energy as though he were only just keeping himself in check for all his laughter she suspected the smile was little more than active facade put on to deter others her unique position in this war and the information she'd been afforded from The Grail were suddenly of no service to her rather than recognizing the newcomer she experienced a strange sense of unease doubly on guard then clearly the Servants of this war weren't afraid to attack her outright alas her curiosity won the day in the end um excuse me but who are V whip The Stranger moved with such speed that Jean could have sworn he teleported there one moment and gone the next she didn't notice him until he appeared before her strong hands clasped around her own and held fasted drawing a soft squeak of surprise from the maiden of Orleans not just the inhuman strength behind his grasp but at the Blazing blue eye suddenly inches from her own a fleeting heartbeat passed between the two blondes broken only by the distant sound of rubble tumbling out of the crater that the ladder had created red or black to beg your pardon Jean blinked a tad alarmed his expression hardened red or black and neither she sputtered out before he could attack a glimmer of understanding daunt in that her stopping gaze oh is that so in that case I'm Uzumaki Naruto Berserker of red at your service and you are oh heavens where were her manners I am the judge of the Grail War Jean dark she hedged sketching a faint nod I thank thee for your assistance Berserker the blonde blinked and the tension drained out of him oh so your ruler then few sorry about that back there at her petulant expression he clapped his hands together in affirmation and awkwardly scratched the back of his head you have no idea what a relief it is to hear that seriously would have been awkward if I saved someone from the black faction in any case you should probably step back because that b ard's probably going to get right back up any second now and when he does he'll be pissed to all HOH HJ easy a roaring burst of napom barreled into the blond's back and catapulted him forward into the mud that was a powerful shot a low voice growled as the blonde kicked himself upright you actually knocked me out for a second there it won't happen again or Blondie mind telling me who he is then for a moment Jee nearly decided to hold her tongue in the end she thought better of it mad or not Berserker had come to her rescue and he'd proven himself a pleasant enough sort she wouldn't fight for him against lfer that would violate her duties as mediator but she wasn't opposed to obliging him that much at the very least that she began turning her gaze towards the pale Warrior climbing over the lip of the crater would be Lancer of red the hero God Cara Son Of The Sun God surria as she looked on the blond's exuberant expression turned Ashen wait that's Cara the actual Cara his face soured as though he'd taken a bite out of something incredibly foul while bugger me I wasn't expecting to fight another deity right off the bat Kya was bad enough you're telling me I Dro kicked him you did I don't suppose you'd be willing to help me despite her best efforts the ghost of a smile plucked at Jean's lips I will not she declared it is my duty to remain neutral in this war not to bind you the cry burst out of her despite her best best attempts to stifle it a harsh clang caught the whiskered Warrior's attention and his arms snapped up a heartbeat later to ward off what would have been a mortal blow wincing at his charred sleeve those wild eyes shot northward oi oi o easy there hotthead don't suppose we could talk about this rather than attack Cara regarded him inquisitively do you mean to face me unarmed Naruto's grin darkened unfortunately I'm in a bit of a reduced State thanks to the cences of my summoning to CH the blonde Shrugged eloquently shaking himself like a wet dog damn shame too I would have loved to tussle with you at my Peak our battle would have been one for the ages but for now I don't have time to deal with you so I'm going to have to send you flying Ohara Divine tilting his head you say that as if you possess enough power to hurt me something like that I may not be the same class as you but I've beaten a god before the low resonating laugh that followed chilled ruler to her bones and Beyond inhaling calmly Berserker closed his eyes and began to draw power right then got to pull as much Sage chakra as I can and the world screamed at him kill you as though a frozen Hand Forged from the very ice of Hell had pierced his and gripped his heart so too did Naruto feel himself freeze the Sudden Rush of power he' gathered slipped through his fingers like an unruly eel leaving him on his knees and gasping for breath in its place the Furious voice of the world shrieked at him clawing his thoughts to piece his own that required all his willpower just to silence severing his tether with nature he wiped a thick bead of sweat from brow well [ __ ] wonder what changed of jck with a Yelp he ducked under Cara's Lance and kicked up with his heel lancer's weapon descended in kind roaring down on him with a low Roar of flames steel met flesh and neither yielded rather she realized Berserker had somehow managed to catch Cara's golden weapon before it could tear him limb from limb impossible as it might seem he stood as ground even now the taller of the two remained rooted gripping that gleaming of polished metal with a determined Grimace ruler observed the struggle with a mildly concerned gaze unyielding as the two warriors grappled with one another neither gaining the advantage though the two Titans struggled are you a servant of black then Cara inquired bearing down on the blonde Berserker in which case you two must be after ruler sorry to disappoint you Naruto grunted but I'm Berserker of red not black a fur of confusion gleamed in lancer's Steely gaze quickly stifled I see might I ask your name then Berserker of red Crimson eyes blazed up at him teeming with rage isaki Naruto now grit your teeth grit my using lancer's weapon as leverage Naruto reeled them in like a hooked fish r to lancer's credit he beheld the spiraling sphere and narrowly evaded it by wrenching his body to the side at the last Wither's arm shot past the outstretched fingers clenching into a fist around the Sphere not a heartbeat later found the limb severed neatly at the elbow until quite suddenly it didn't lancer's great weapon phased through an empty afterimage and immediately found itself in trap a second time a harsh squeeze stifled the snarling orb and arked upward the limb bending at an impossible angle of course Jean realized it only stood to reason Berserker would have another Ace up his sleeve she simply hadn't expected it to be SLE AI oi oare clenched Knuckles thundered into Cara's unsuspecting Visage from all angles as Jee looked on a pounding percussion akin to the drums of a great hunt out for once twice Thrice three successive blows hammered upright into the startled servant's Visage before he had the chance to recover the fourth taking him hard on the chin and wrenching the pale Warrior upright momentarily stunned by the strike the deity nevertheless maintained his Ironclad hold upon his weapon for all the good it did himly to find himself ha in yet again perhaps had he simply let go he might have escaped what followed alas he did not instead he chose to stand his ground to her dismay comprehension dawned in those pale eyes I see so that's one of your Noble fantasm is it Peerless physical speed and endurance very well then I shall retaliate in kind brah tranda see that's the great thing about being a Berserker Naruto's voice interjected his flame split the heavens grinning he had his arm back eyes Blazing Red we don't fight fair but more importantly Crimson light ens shrouded his outstretched arm sheathing it in a strange Scarlet tether notot like that of some great bestro claw La no more than that larat she realized the word springing to her mind unbidden whatever it was it leaped forward and crunched against Cara's half prepared attack barreling through it with ease Thor Ruby arm crunched against Cara's face bodily catapulting him into the sky wi rather than waste any more of his strength in a pointless struggle for control of the Lance Berserker forsook defense Alto jeris of course freed his dominant hand and flung himself onto the offensive with a roar the whiskered warrior snapped both arms back wrapping them in that Telltale Crimson Aura once more then he un leashed a torrent of blows upon his unprepared fo hammering a series of rousing roundhouses into lancer's side solar plexus lungs throat every open space he could find that wasn't protected by armor and some that were still Lancer didn't fall in time the Warrior of Sun regained his lost ground and struck back as the sun rose his spear became little more than a fur of golden Radiance striking at impossible angles seeming to bend and twist a lunge at berserker's head a strike to the arm followed by an overhead smash a lunging thrust piercing Naruto's side all went unanswered no G realized it wasn't that Berserker didn't retaliate but rather he couldn't though his blows shook the Earth and his toxic Aura lashed out with just as much ferocity he continued to fall back as if something were physically limiting preventing him from utilizing his full might what his true Noble fantasm sealed somehow as such it came as something of a surprise when the blonde blurred and a lighted on a ruined portion of the highway a harsh stomp upturned still more of the ravaged Road upturning it to create a temporary pillar do you flee Berserker Lancer challenged pretty much the blonde Shrugged back from his impr to perch look I can't fight you properly as I am now something I'm sure you've noticed but I'm not all that Keen on leaving you to attack ruler either mind if we put this fight on hold until tomorrow he grinned I'll have permission by then and I'll gladly give you the fight of your life to his credit Cara almost seemed to consider Naruto's proposal in the end however he shook his head my Master's orders are absolute as ruler looked on the pale Warrior almost seemed to Sag out of respect I will not give Chase should you flee but I have been commanded to take ruler's head a that's a Pity Naruto side well then I have only one retort to that effect a fur of movement danced in lancer's peripherals bite me Jean started again came the short sharp explosive burst of speed this time rendering the pillar little more than crumbled asphalt had her eyes betrayed her or did he glow just before he disappeared sure it must have been her imaginational when it faded she found Berserker had finally reached Lancer a long hand thrust itself forward and slapped against car's exposed uncaring of the spear thrust clean through his stomach Naruto flashed an impish grin up at his foe laughed even as that strange symbol blossomed against lancer's visible skin have a nice flight in a subdued fur of Golden Light Lancer vanished leaving Berserker behind with that gaping souvenir not even a lasting one at that to ruler's disbelief the Ragged gash in his back mended effortlessly sucking that strange Crimson Ora back into Naruto's body from when it came just what kind of body was that he what did you just do a heedless of her confusion the blonde belted out a happy cry collapsing onto his hunches in a fit of laughter let's see how he likes that I had to break another damn kunai just to send him away good thing too I can't use that trick easily a small Snicker fled from his lips as he covered his mouth with a scorched hand ah I wish I could see the look on his face it' be one for the Scrapbook Jean felt rather than saw herself collapse all the tension had been drained away in an instant leaving not but Hollow Echoes behind no worries Naruto reassured her climbing to his feet he's halfway across trifas now should take him some time to come back unless his master wants to waste a command seal in any case I think we're out of danger for the time being oh I see she tried to muster some semblance of propriety only for her niece to Buckle spectacularly H she'd nearly forgotten about her own battle and the exhaustion that came with it quick as you please rker flitted back right to her side like a pale shade sure enough that piercing gaze found her right calf where the armor had been scorched clean Through the flames of the sun were nothing to scoff aan as she registered them the pain came roaring back in a red tide eliciting a winse from the holy Maiden [ __ ] you banged up your leg pretty badly Naruto breathed inspecting her wound despite herself she colored at his concern it's nothing really nothing my ass the warrior scoffed that's a bad burn rest assured this will not impede my goodness a Yelp burst out of her as he made her sit wordlessly he tore off his right sleeve just hold still will you a moment of awkward silence passed between the two blondes broken only by the sound of fine cloth being wound into place if Berserker had anything more to say he did precious little to show it even as Jee looked on those crystal blue eyes never wavered from her injury it was such a stark contrast from the crazed Warrior she'd seen before that she didn't know what to make of it she'd already said she wouldn't help him so why go to such lengths for a mere injury as this she couldn't turn into her astral form to be sure but the wound would mend if left well enough alone Madness utter Madness Jean shook her head I do not understand you nothing to understand Missy she frowned over her shoulder at him why are you like this hey why am I like what Naruto posited cheekily you'll have to make more sense now hold still you have an old soul yet a young body her frown deepened into a wse as he patiently continued wrapping her wound though she admonished him when he bound the cloth a touched too tight not so tight please in any case you claim to be a Berserker class yet you're sanity clearly remains this should not be possible you're an aberration you shouldn't be here so I asked you why a young man Shrugged just lucky I suppose I got a second chance to enjoy life he paused hands grazing her leg as he inspected his work I don't really know why and frankly I don't care there doesn't have to be a reason for everything you know look at you he laughed thumbing his nose you're alive again same as me I'd say that's a cause for celebration right perhaps you speak the truth yet even so I have a duty toome her words trailed off in Surprise as he had her for head a cheeky smile greeted her blank stunned silence then came the blush creeping up her neck www whatever was that for blue eyes twinkled merrily at her you need to loosen up with a grunt he stood you said you had business with the Red Faction right care to join us Jean World spun in a Mel strum a ship caught in a storm tossed sea it was only with the utmost of efforts that she managed to write herself bker Naruto she reminded herself wasn't at all off buting he simply dragged others into his Pace without any care for what they thought of him if she didn't know better she might have called it Charisma but she doubted the whiskered warrior was even aware he retained the skill Lord above if he possessed this kind of willpower now what he must have been like when he was alive oi zombie she'd never been more grateful for an interruption in all of her second life across the ruined Road a distant plume of dust burst into being on the horizon both blondes turned to regard it one with confusion the other consternation gradually it resolved itself into gleaming shape of a warrior clad and full platus it couldn't possibly be carner running at them full Sprint charging even judging by Naruto startled croak he recognized them indeed Jean found it almost amusing how quickly Berserkers once hail and healthy Visage rendered itself a ghastly shade of white as she looked on if she didn't know better she'd say the whiskered warrior was spirits she's going to kill me for leaving her out of this fight audo groaned into his palms desperate he rounded on her oi ruler hide me ah too little too late you had a fight and didn't tell me look there's a reason I ran off Sabre mortar landed with Sound and Fury her descent all but splintering the ground underfoot in a blink she had Berserker dead to wrs as much as gravity seizing by the Scruff of the neck as she began to jostle him wildly to and fro as he'd said and much to Jean's surprise that terrifying Helm folded back to reveal not the face of a man but a woman instead said woman looked all of an instant from tearing Naruto's reason and his head from his shoulders Justified or not will he ostop it he cried I'm getting dizzy she shook him furiously instead why'd you run off it didn't in meano Naruto groaned laughed out between shakes Mercy him Lord TCH that makes me want to shake you even harder zombie looking back on this Jean couldn't help help but wonder what on Earth had she gotten herself into it would prove to be a long morning semiramis awoke that was somewhat concerning given she didn't remember dozing off to begin with as a highclass servant sleep was a mere triviality for one such as her a comfort perhaps but unnecessary yet she'd still fallen into Slumber all the same why her last coherent memory consisted of preparing her hanging gardens than nothing long lashes fluttered open and shut in a vain attempt to Blink the cobwebs away only to squint against Pale Light from some unknown source her first inkling that something had gone terrible horribly wrong came in the form of an alarming stiffness in her limbs irked by what she viewed as foolishness on her part she attempted to rise only then did she become aware of the gag thrust into her mouth what Madness is this with a snarl assassin bolted upright rather she would have were it not for the razor wires that bound her limbs an alarming gap in her memory caused her to ponder when night had turned to day and back again but it provided little Solace her mind found itself swaddled in Cotton instead she found her world flung a skew strands of ebony wafting across her vision as she hung like a strung up turkey someone or something had gone to Great pangs to hang her such to leave her DD from the rafters by her feet trussed up like a madw woman groggy golden eyes flitted wildly about her surroundings seeking Escape but found only four slate walls to greet her no not quite she realized tethered by brass tacks to those ugly edifices a series of thick candles provided a faint form of Illumination to view her captivity what she saw there only served to heighten her confusion framed in their furring light assassin grit her teeth beyond the candles those walls were indeed be as she'd initially surmised but the room was not consisting of little more than a small room its layout was devoid of most amentis of an exit bar a single sleeping roll and a wooden table strun a top its plain surface and careless disarray the Curious glint of plastic caught her eye At first she didn't rightly understand what she was looking at the various food stuff sprawled across said table resembled little more than common junk food instant Ramen bags of chips and the like craning her neck the blackette hiss Softly As the wires bitd into her sides drawing beneath her dress it seemed her captors didn't care what she thought of them needless to say she was not a please excuse the mess a rough voice chimed didn't have time to tidy the place up she was even less infused by the sudden wind that swarmed the room setting her wound stinging in a heartbeat the candles found themselves snuffed out and Shadow swallowed the world sending semiramis plunging into the black when it finally returned she found herself face to face with pair of Blazing blue orbs framed by a mangled mop of blonde hair with a flourish the owner of that Visage tore the gag free from her mouth whiskered cheeks dimpled in a small slice smile near inches from her own that cheery Visage dangled there await her response a muscle jumped in her jaw pulsing wildly as that Jester grin gazed back at her as she looked on a lazy Hand Rose figting a salute yo did you sleep well oh deadly queen of Assyria indeed she recognized her captor immediately though she'd only glimpsed him once from afar Berserker of red his tattered Crimson cloak seemed to Shimmer in the Gastly light as gazed up at her the otherworldly pulsing and thrumming as though it had a life of its own there was a wild light to those eyes of his a strange frenetic energy that set her nerves on edge pearly white teeth flashed in the Gloom exposing sharpen canine teeth it is said that two Warriors or Killers can recognize one another at a glance if they have nothing to hide in that instant saramis read the entirety history of his being that tet werker some fell Instinct bid saramis to rear back and Bash her head against his with all her might thus she did the result Wasa isfactory All Things Considered given her close proximity she had a prime view of the blond startled expression mere moments before her forehead crunched into his nose rendering the orifice a fresh gout of in the air an annoyed grunt greeted her ears even as her prison dug a fresh lattice work of wide lines against her pale skin but in her fit of peak she paid her injuries no mind satisfaction spurred a spiteful smile to her lips Heaven me that looks painful I'd expected better from someone known as Berserker recoiling in pain the warrior clutched at his face and hissed softly oh what the hell was that for assassin I should be asking you the same thing a low Rumble answered her what's so funny everything I suppose rather than whimper and curse her vitri the cloak servant rewarded her with a laugh muffled against his palms honestly I never get tired of this trick as she looked on his shoulders shook with silent mirth as he straightened before her no longer doubling over in pain I'll Grant you this I probably deserve that headbutt in the grand schemes of things even if it was kind of pointless in the end but if it's any consolation dear assassin with a flourish the young man took a wide hand from his face exposing hail and Hearty skin in place of his a Surin nose that hurt like hell too late she realized her mistake instantaneous regeneration in such a short time how did he in a model blur of golden Crimson he was upon her seizing her by the face forcing her to meet his gaze cold eyes the color of dried regarded her between the slits of his fingers in that moment she was suddenly all too aware of the strength behind those clenched digits Lana thrummed in the air between them poison Violet vying against tainted Crimson still the pain intensified biting down against her flesh with painful Clarity like an iron trap slowly grinding shut across her fine features for a terrifying instant she feared Berserker would simply increase the pressur esque isy and render her face a pulpy mess before she could skewer him with her chains by some twist of fate he abstained and released her of his own accord hey don't make that face those devilish eyes seem to Shimmer in the low light boring into her very soul I didn't bring you here to kill you besides I wouldn't be much of a Berserker if I let something like this keep me down now I'm going to have to ask you to refrain from doing that again so don't bother using your magic he amended sternly one more stunt like that without my say so and those wires will cut you to pieces of course a hint of that Eerie Amusement from earlier slipped back into his smile as he plucked it a nearby wire I could just let you down if you promised to behave not as though you could teleport out of here without my say so anyway oh despite the pain snarling its way down her spine saramis felt a smile touch her lips you are aware I could kill you without raising a finger no you'll find I'm quite resistant to poison these days his smile didn't waver in the least as she leared at him I invite you to try my aren't you bold Berserker didn't respond instead he snapped his fingers with a sibilant hiss the wires retracted from Assassin's body all at once that deadly razor wire snapping like fine spider silk a heartbeat of confusion slowed her thoughts but only just bereft of her bonds the blackette briefly stumbled before catching ing herself upon one bent knee a small smile tugged at her full lips but again Berserker didn't react to her suspiciously awkward Landing nor did he move to assist her even had he engaged in such foolish chivalry so he would have proven too slow in the time it took for him to realize her intentions she'd already encircled him in Chains and struck out at him thrusting a spiked Palm into the young man's stoic facade you're full of openings it was a clean stab through and through one semiramis was rather proud of by rights she'd given him no time to move much less react by All rights it ought to have been a fatal one her attack had pierced his eye and struck the sensitive gry matter lurking behind it with his arms and legs bound he had no way of retaliating surely she must have inflicted critical damage such that would would leave him writhing on the ground at her feet shortly Foolish Boy thinking he stood a chance against one such as her F thus it came as a something of a surprise when the blonde raised two fingers and poked her in the forehead startled by the force behind the seemingly benign gesture saramis found herself unprepared for the Aftershock that followed What should have been a simple PR against her skull instead slammed her back against the nearest wall cratering the thick mortar with sound in a plum breath burst from her lungs and once more she found herself slumped forward against her will struggling for air that wouldn't come through ringing ears a distant peel of laughter reached her hey I actually felt that when he croaked almost against her will semiramis dared to look up looking back the queen of Assyria sorely wished she hadn't done so murker gazed back at her uncaring of the gaping hole she'd ripped in his head a lopsided grin stretched across his ruined face as he rolled his shoulders shattering the metal links binding his torso into harmless shards of fractured Mana seemingly ignorant of the visceral tear penetrating his right eye and the skull beyond what little ran from the wound soon found itself staunched as though someone had simply closed a pump somewhere in his body ceasing the flow altogether well she swallowed thickly that's not fair at all rather than shrink that durge of a grin only grew ever Wier pardon the pun but I don't give ano that Line's been done to death hasn't it you can't kill what you don't understand the words emerged him as a soft hum and as she looked on that same blue orb wound its way back into existence with a hiss of steam alongside the rest of his head saber learned that in the hard way now I've given you two free hits so are you quite done this wasn't working no one might even call it a disaster she needed to escape this prison to flee but in order to withdraw safely she' requir time time to contact shiru time to find an opening in this ugly cage her enemy had crafted time she simply didn't and wouldn't have if she tried to attack Berserker again very well then if playing his game would Avail her of the resources she needed to entertain this fool of a Jester for now just do you want from me see we can be civil the young man cheered happily flashing a chesher grin as he pulled the chair out of the Shadows for her as for what I want well that's simple my apologies for the accommodations but I wanted to meet you under a more controlled setting one that didn't involve your master looking over my shoulder eyeing my every move a silent shutter shook his shoulders seriously right creepy bastard there what do you see in them assassin's first instinct was to lash out at Berserker for the slight to offer a waspish retort after a moment's consideration she reluctantly chose to hold withhold her Barbed reply and claim her seat opposite him no anger would not serve her here it would only hasten her death nail in close combat Berserker eclipsed anything she could throw at him speed strength durability he clearly exceeded her in all these and more oh she remained confident she could kill him given proper time and preparation but not in these confined quarters he would well Landing a mortal blow before she finished him there would be a reckoning for this so she swore once she finished her hanging gardens this upstart would be in for a rude awakening indeed but until that moment came tact yet remained her greatest weapon here in this cage one that must used with care perhaps in doing so she'd somehow learn enough to use against her captor if that meant playing to his ego then it was a role she knew well hmmph fool she'd have him wrapped around her finger stifling a slice smurk she leaned back in her chair is there some bad between you bad no not at all her cirker supplied with INF frigid smile momentarily startling her with this Sudden Change in intensity quite the contrary I've never met shiru katamine until I saw him in that church not once he simply reminds me of someone I'd rather forget yes someone who caused a great deal of trouble for my world and those I loved a mad look danced in her peripheral as he ground a claw fist into an open Palm someone I have to grind into dust an anomaly I need to eradicate forgive me for being blunt but I will kill your master if he's anything like that man I feel inclined to tell you that now before we continue our discussion a beat of awkward silence passed between the two servants I see she replied bluntly you're insane insane me know no no I prefer the term enlightened you learn a few things when you've lived as long as I have just like that this brief spark of anger was extinguished by the blond's enigmatic smile now then laughing he brought his hands together in a sharp that caused her sensitive ears to vibrate painfully onto business see I thought it was high time we had a chat you and Ryder were the only other Servants of r that I hadn't met so I thought it best to start with you I suspect the ladder's going to wander in through my door eventually so where were we pulling up a battered chair of his own from Spirits new wear her fellow servant flopped down and leaned across the back a beat of Silence passed between the two killers broken only by the sound of their own own breathing the inquiry when it came nearly floored seami outright your master sent Lancer after ruler last night why deny it he grasps its straws he can't prove anything he seeks to drive a wedge between the two of you sarami nearly rebuffed him out of habit but something in those ice blue eyes told her such a response would be received poorly nothing in his posture suggested Naruto was prepared to attack should she disavow any knowledge of her master's action but still that glacial gaze pierced her and stilled her tongue it was true that on some level she knew shiru had sent Cara to take ruler's head just as she knew said attempt had been thwarted by someone she hadn't given the matter much thought until now ah if of course it made sense Berserker must have intervened his bravery would have been admirable if it weren't so misguided in war fools fell first her expression must have been telling however for his own remains set in stone likely to remove her from the war the words escaped her before she could think to drag them back why is this concern you so the shitty priest has something against her after all thought as much doesn't matter now just wanted to confirm it that [ __ ] stops now with that the whiskered warrior side and pmed his face after all if we're going to play I can't have you stabbing a potential potential ally in the back speaking of stabbing will be assaulting the black faction later tonight he informed her primly laying his chin cross folded arms since we're technically on the same team I thought it best to tell you coordination and all that a delicate brow Rose we yes we his expression didn't waver I've made a few friends exacerbating this less than subtle threat the young man shifted his dominant arm into the light thereby revealing his hand her gaze flitted there and to her dismay beheld the mark symbols etched into his flesh a series of seals that had no business existing upon on the hand of anyone who wasn't a master in the war yet there they stood almost daring her to defy them for what they were she felt the power emanating from that Mark and knew it to be true an ember of uncertainty kindled itself in her heart and try as she might she couldn't grind it out did those seals belong to a servant of the Red Faction no surely not she would have known would have noticed the black faction then but who went more aptly how regardless of whom he'd stolen this changed things not only did Berserker have an ace up his sleeve but it rendered made any sort of betrayal on her part absolutely moot a single seal would be more than sufficient to bring this Ur while Ally to his side even if they proved uncooperative he possessed another seal to compel their obedience depending on whom he'd rested away he now posed a significant threat but who her mind flitted like a wild dove beating its wings in vain as that stoic Mas gazed back at her cast her saber assassin she had no way of knowing worse with his master squirrel away out of sight they had no way of tapping this potential resource without bringing him into the fold something he'd gone to Great Lengths to resist the other Masters would be brought to heal eventually of course yet if this continued they risked a third faction Rising within their own ranks they had no way of knowing how the Grail might react to thatat would yet another set of servants be summoned the thought almost made her shiver clever she mused laying her chin Upon A curled fist so descent among both parties and reap the rewards not the way I would have done it but still perhaps there is some Merit in dealing with him after all her opinion of him ined higher slightly you've taken control of a servant for yourself it was not a question on her part but rather a statement fascinating I hadn't thought it was possible for one such as you blue eyes narrow to Azure slits o caught onto that quick didn't you you are a scary one the whiskered warrior whistled aloud sharp too maybe I should just kill you now and save myself the Hassel who am I kidding a hand Rose pming the unruly man that served as his hair I just don't have that kind of mean streak in me even in this Incarnation still every fiber of her being twitched at the perceived slight don't say it grinning Berserker walked right into that Minefield frankly I'm amazed I got the drop on you he remarked coily as she began to squirm in her seat savoring every moment of her discomfort let's face it I am the least stealthy servant out there yet here we are so before you find a way to maim murder or otherwise mangle me Beyond repair I'm going to make you an offer however the blonde interjected over himself thrusting an imperious digit into her face before I do I'd appreciate some manner of Civility really we're not Savages you and I if anything I think we can understand one another don't you really she couldn't be blamed for What followed no not in the least she bit down hard rather than Yelp or recoil in pain of the sudden injury Berserker of red merely sigh eyeing the faint drop of of rising from the no swollen digit he favored her with a decidedly lazy look really he dead penned we fall into biting me now take back your words this instant or so help me I had a son once did you know that rather than acquest to her demands the blonde surprised her by launching into a tangent of his own his name was baruto smart kid if a bit stubborn don't get me wrong I had nothing but love and respect for him but he could also be a spoiled little [ __ ] at times the fft is scarred arm Rose in dramatic flourish as he belabored his point you should have seen him proud arrogant willing to do whatever it took to win nothing like me at all it took him a while but eventually he learned his lesson took a few knocks and came around sure I outlived him and those who came after him but it was nice reminder of things sarami bit her lip stifling a retort is there a point to this ceaseless Babble Of Yours she hissed it was exactly the wrong thing to say and saramies realized it far too late quick as a flesh those wild bestial eyes found hers again pinning her where she stood the point that I'm trying to make here your majesty is a simple one people can change in a single sharp motion the warrior burst out of his chair and kick back Wards like an angry mule rendering the rickety frame little more than Driftwood against the nearest wall we don't have to be enemies I'd like to think that Queen Act of yours is just that and act and if it is great we can work together for a fraction of a second the wild light in his eyes dimmed and she almost thought he would kneel before her then he seized her by the hand and all that fire came roaring back with a why Vengeance but I'm not going to waste my time if you're going to be an absolute about all this and ignore everything I've just said don't you get it I'm asking for your help eyes of poison gold flitted Southward regarding the rough Palm now clutching hers in that moment something shifted in her heart it was a strange thing indeed for someone else to seek her Aid once again unlike shiru this request had a different ring to it to be approached on equal terms proved something of a novel experience for her from one ruler to another she knew enough of berserker's Legend warped though it might be by time and remoro comprehend that much truth be told it was not an unpleasant feeling for all his Insanity Berserker had proven himself profoundly durable if nothing else quirks aside he might prove a useful meat shield in the battles to come if manipulated properly he would be a powerful tool for her own agenda perhaps she might even think it was of his own accord and yet couldn't bring herself to do it try as she might the words wouldn't come unable to meet that Earnest gaze over long she turned her own away why ask me this the words tumbled out of her in a rush led to the Queen's dismay Naruto didn't release her let's be honest here I'm not the sharpest tool in the shed a hero confided in her with a helpless shrug I'm not the fastest strongest or even the most Charming figure in this war I've accepted it and come to terms with it red or black saber would probably demolish me in a straightup fight let alone if they use their Noble fantasm same could be said for our Lancer but they won't why you ask again those blue eyes glinted a tainted shade of crimson at her surveying saramis with those strange weits because I possess a very unique set of skills skills that are a nightmare for people like you and your master chief among them turning enemies into allies it'll be that one that'll see our side through to the end of this war our side saramis blinked did you seriously just a harsh bark of laughter greeted her sorry grail's thrown a lot of data at me a marked Hand Rose idly knocking his skull skull with a clenched fist got a lot of Pop Culture references rattling around in here I like to use what I can that's just a don't you see flinging up his arms toward the wide ceiling he released her hand and belted out a fresh cackle we're alive you and I our time was long ago but now we're back and the world has changed while we were gone it's incredible there's so much to see so much to do rock and roll baby don't you want to see what's out there aren't you even a little curious no she dare not admit that he become absolutely insufferable if she did I'm not going to dignify that with a response good because I won't give you one came the leling reply now that Noble fantasm of yours is nearly ready I trust it's taking quite a bit of time to prepare when she didn't rise to the bait the ghost of a smile inched its way across his whiskered Visage I imagine the Hanging Gardens of Babylon will be quite the sight thread coiled its frigid fingers around her throat and strangled all sense hard he knows how did you learn about the faint Whisper of wind was her only warning in the next instant she found his head thrust against hers that craze smile mere inches from her own saramis I know a great many things warm breath brushed her face bring with it the promise of Madness something that distorts reality itself isn't going to escape my notice that and your appearance narrowed down your identity considerably not many servants like you not these days there was again that vague sensation of conversing with something else entirely in that moment the facade of the fool finally slipped and she glimpsed the warrior lurking behind that Merry mask the sight of it stilled the waspish retort on her tongue who are you really she whispered in that moment something shifted in her heart let's answer your question with another question what do you want from this war you first me no one special just a a man with a dream I fought with Gods not once not twice but Thrice and lived to tell the tale make of that what you will rushing past her he sidled up to that same dust looking table she'd spied earlier after a moment's consideration he plucked a package of dried Ramen from its surface and pried a pair of Chopsticks from the wrapper before discarding the former right he murmured I didn't install a microwave or a sink did I this is useless then just my luck such Misfortune knew I should have got some cheese nectar of the gods that what were we talking about again shaking his head the blonde turned that heroin gaze back on her in any case what little I don't know has been provided in a broad spectrum by The Grail he continued now just in case you've taken it into your head to play me like a fiddle and cast me aside I'll give you one last warning thunk with a solid thud those seemingly benign wooden instrument slammed into the wall opposite saramis opening a thin rent across her left cheek as they hurdled past a thin line of crimson sloo down her cheek momentarily baffled by the sudden display and more than a touch perturbed that she'd failed to notice it in the first pleth blette raised a finally manicured hand to her injured face the har crunch to her rear told her all she needed to know it was only with an effort of supreme willpower that assassin finally found it within herself to turn her gaze and follow the impromptu missiles projected path sure enough she found them wedged against the thick concrete and throughout it all Berserker hadn't budged so much as a single inch the smile that followed looked almost beatific by comparison and chilled her to the Bone do not with still a glimmer of defiance kindled itself a new in her her body remained relatively intact despite that display but her Pride ah her Pride that had suffered a mortal wound but but beyond that deeper than she dared admit lurked another emotion how dare he how dare he who was he to ask for her help only to turn about and demand her loyalty like some peasant she was not a Fickle wench to be swayed by sentiment the strong ruled the weak Parish to think otherwise was anathema to yield to another something she'd sworn never to do again a dark miasma coiled around her shoulders ya you are not Saye you're mad have you no reason figure that out yourself did you Naruto beamed what gave me away was at the cheese enough he pushed her well past the limits of her patience the light lilting laugh threatened to take the fraying leash of her self-control and snap it entirely no he wasn't that he held absolutely no fear for her though she could skewer him flood his body with poison to rot his very bones he still dared to defy her to mock her AAL make a fool of her would he she tear him limb from limb rip out his heart and feed it to her Dove see if he came back from that rising ponderously from her chair the queen summoned a wicked length of chain you have precisely 3 seconds to correct yourself before you choke and die on your own bile cool your tits assassin can't you take a joke it's not like I was actively trying to kill you back there oh a small part of her bridled against such a term bristling at the very insinuation that he could Triumph against her and if I refuse rly trying my patience Here Naruto exhaled Softly on the surface it seemed little more than a sigh nothing more nothing less a lesser solone not assign the Dual rolls of Caster an assassin would have failed to notice the sudden surge of Prana stemming from his core they might have missed the abrupt rigidity of his shoulders the way in which he arched his back just so turning enough to present a smaller profile while still keeping her within Arms Reach the lack of Life in and those once vibrant eyes instantly set her on edge oi Master when he finally spoke into the dread silence it wasn't to her you there assassin blinked wait what are you sh you're not involved in this anymore Naruto snapped a muscle jumped in her jaw I'm feeling pretty damn involved you ignorant little quiet semi the adults are talking even she sputtered in disbelief at this fresh slight Berserker forsook her entirely rather than turn and acknowledge the threat she presented the blonde turned his back on her twin azzure orbs drifted shut as he pressed two fingers against his forehead I think negotiations just broke down permission to cut loose for a second what he paused risking a brief glance in her Direction yeah she's right in front of me sure I'll make it quick I know I know I'll behave after a beat of Silence he must have received an answer in the affirmative for that black gay swung back to her aew do you know why I was summoned as a Berserker class in this war he inquired softly I suppose it has something to do with complete and utter lack of Sanity semiramis retorted with acid Venom close we all have our own problems our own issues our own demons mine he has a name a face trust may you don't want to see him when she refused to rise to the bait he plowed onward gesturing elaborately I'm well aware that my master doesn't possess the reserves to sustain me not when we've got a second servant along for the ride at any rate so I've taken to finding alternative means of sustenance no one seems to miss criminals these days there's not shortage of them in this country I'm not proud of it but needs must I suppose see this is what happens when rumors warp your Legend yes I know how Lancer of black feels is this act meant to frighten me Berserker because I assure you you it doesn't she sniffed rolling his shoulders the younger Warrior shed his coat with a sharp thud it should assassin you're going to be screaming in a second have we resorted to threats now how quaint fine you asked for it de in that moment the candles inexplicably darkened could light be black she wondered about that because in that instant Uzumaki Naruto Berserker of red ceased to be his back hunched as he bent double a low Roar tearing itself out of his throat Crimson flooded the room punctuated by the stench of singed skin cloth shredded itself to Pieces flesh peeled away to reveal boiling beneath revealing round orbs of Gastly white sheath and hardened bone hands hardened into Ferro claws sharper than any blade as though the feds of humanity had been Stripped Away at long last revealing the monster beneath Shadows rised and twisted upon the walls like a thing alive six Tales threshing with the whales of the Damned rising in her ears the Beast saw her then and it sneered food no too late saramis realized her fate this m mantha's absolute sociopath meat to eat her quick as a flash the Beast gathered itself and pounced upon the startled assassin obliterating the mag magc barrier she frantically tried to erect between them with the mest effort unbreakable claws clenched around her throat and squeezed as the sheer weight of its body drove her to the floor stifling a second spell before it could leave her lips though the floor cratered beneath her the blackette fought back to no avail she clawed its face with poison Nails striking at any opening she could find desperately gouging at its eyes when that horrifying face loomed large before her the Beast white with Fury she raged against him release me at once do you hear me and possibly it slaving mock creaked open and against all logic it spoke eyes lungs pancreas so many snacks so little time I am not egic scalding hands seared the exposed flesh of her throat causing her to cry out and struggle all the more shards of shattered Prana splintered in every direction Links of broken chains skittering off the creature's impenetrable height as it pressed down had it taken place in her hanging gardens the battle might well have turned in favor of saramis she could have simply flooded the room with poison summoned one of her fantasmal beasts or simply teleported herself away from this raving monstrosity not here here cut off from all allies with no territory and the raw power it possessed she found herself as helpless as a newborn for all her struggles that gaping Moss seemed to loom closer with each passing moment threatening to engulf her head to rip her very face from her shoulders as quickly as it had come the terror passed the weight suddenly fled from her all at once replaced by a cool numbness still she struggled against a foe that was simply no longer there it wasn't until that icy sensation found her throat allowing her to speak egain that she realized her opponent had withdrawn and left her to her wounds sure enough her spotty Vision registered his CRI coat on the peripherals of her vision accompanied by that shock of blonde hair by the end his Noble fantasm couldn't have lasted more than 30 seconds no more than half a minute yet the sight of it had been enough to render her ice in its veins Berserker indeed gasping clutching at her a Ching it now healed windpipe she dared to rise for the record berserker's rough voice intruded upon her Solace I wasn't really going to eat you I'm not that bad just wanted to make my point he didn't Flinch when sarami spat in his Direction consider it Ma she coked out with a supreme effort the blacket propped herself up on the points of her elbows and fixed her captor with the most menacing glow she could muster no she told herself she wasn't trembling not at all she refused to show Fear to reveal weakness in the face of an adversary would only further destabilize her position she would stand tall and proud until she finally escaped this place then and only then would she pause to her wounds then she'd repay this indignity tenfold if he ever set foot on her territory of course the madman wasn't having any of it gez I really banged you up didn't I sorry that Noble fantasm isn't one I can control easily here hold still when the gentle Green Glow of healing Mana blossomed against her throat again assassin nearly slapped his hand away outright to her dismay she lacked the strength to do even that in her frazzled State instead she once more found herself forced to submit to the whims of her captor as he tended her wounds for all her struggles he simply ignored her diet tribe and continued his work within moments she found herself able to breathe without flinching minutes after that the pain had receded to little more than a dull ache though the memory remained painfully sharp no she wouldn't be letting her guard down again better fool you should have killed me when he strayed too close for her liking sarami saw her opportunity to strike at him in the only way she could seizing his cheeks she pulled hard wrenching his whiskered Visage with what little strength remained you won't get a second chance next time we meet Al whoops you've got a bit of there are you even listening to me she fumed as he dabbed at her nose much to her Chagrin that damnable smile of his chose that very moment to return of course I'm listening does that make us allies or enemies then his demand left no room for negotiation which will it be left with little recourse the queen of Assyria took the only Road left to her she laughed his smile finned into a barely concealed dead pan laughter I wasn't expecting that sarami scarcely heard him as she doubled over to clutch at her stomach even had she done so she would have continued to laugh despite his disbelief not a mad cackle of anger or despair as one might expect but a Hy pit shriek of disbelief to mourn the loss of her sanity how close she'd come to death just now she'd glimpsed her end in those jaws no matter how much Berserker might deny it there had been a moment where she'd felt the cold touch of the reaper there would be a reckoning for this whether said Reckoning ended with heads on a spike or hands intertwined that was anyone's game wasn't it at this point she could no longer bring herself to care no she'd come to accept that Berserker of red simply couldn't be understood stop see she cried through fits of mad giggling flinging up her hands I yield I yield you of my word what just like that for the first time since they'd met sarami found herself treat to a rare sight Berserker at a loss for words why the sudden change of heart H chm drawing herself up to her full towering height the oldest poisoner wiped away a mirthful tear and favored him with a demure look you'll have to figure that out yourself dear do try not overheat your brain you won't be of any use to me if your head explodes that was a backhanded compliment so truce rather than debate the turn of phrase the blonde reluctantly helped her upright semiramis never took her eyes off him Not For a Moment now that she knew he could become F thing at will she wasn't going to let him out of her sight still it came as something of a surprise when he actually extended his hand to her in Friendship Spirits he was actually serious about this it almost made her feel guilty for what she was about to do almost no she wouldn't be satisfied with just killing him after this she wanted to break him and make him hers to see that confidence shatter once she was finally able to bring her true power to Bear if he thought he could change her he was more than welcome to try she wouldn't let him sway her and then at the final moment she'd show him utter despair how sweet it would be but for now patience before poison after a moment's hesitation she seized his hand in hers and shook very well I promise not to kill Yao it though I cannot speak for Lancer or Rider suppose that's the best I can get the blonde deerred with a shrug looking forward to working with you and are you for however long you're of use to me what Naruto lacked in The Art of War for a that is to say his complete and utter lack of anything resembling a sound strategy more than made up for with sheer Charisma she witnessed that firsthand adversaries became allies seemingly overnight and through it all that smile sha through but were one to become his enemy per chance if they refused his overtures of Peace then they would be eradicated without Mercy it was the mindset of a noble ruler a man who'd LED others to Victory and ground his foes underfoot she understood that respected it even ruled were tyrants beholden to no one but themselves that made him dangerous just what had led his Legend to become so warped great now I hate to do this but I'm going to have to knock you out again Nudo informed her primly narrowly startling her out of her revery need to keep the secret base secret and all and no can of your master tracking me down and making trouble I'll be in touch seami pale to the very roots of her hair no no no no no no she hissed shrinking back from him her sirker don't you damp shh shh a finger pressed against her mouth no tears only dreams now now through the haze that enveloped her assassin managed one final curse then the sweet Embrace of Slumber Drew her into waiting arms you did what sorry I was just curious and I'm curious how far my boot will go up your ass You'll Never Take Me Alive saber can't kill what it can't catch hey some of us are trying to sleep down here put a sock in it when the hell did you sneak off again zombie I told you that was bad news well the two of you shut up already just get a room and bang for Chriss AES on that less than pleasant note ruler finally opened her eyes and surrendered to the light of day her body responded sluggishly at first such were the pangs of possessing Letitia physical form rather than a true Spirit one and at first her hands furtively clamped down around her pillow trying in vain to shut out the argument that had suddenly roared to life with berserker's early return try as she might the sweet song of Slumber eluded her truth be told she hadn't realized he'd slipped out again while she slept had she truly been that weary or perhaps CL a r n do not you'll bring the damn CP down on our heads Times Like These Jee almost wished she could to materialize like the others a curious crunch of mortar meting metal finally forced her to give up on that pipe dream this Crypt in question was a touch cramped especially when considered it played host to four servants and two masters but this theirs was a strange Alliance One formed by loose kinship and camaraderie rather than any real need for cooperation on their part hardening yet concerning all the same should Berserker be removed from the scenario she suspected their little pack would soon fall to ruin the man certainly had anner about him if not a away for Words a presence that Drew one in almost like incoming hunkered down against her bed roll she nearly missed the abrupt implosion of a nearby wall punctuated by the Scarlet clad form of berserker tumbling through it onto his back dappled with dust and debris he uttered a soft groan but the moment he laid eyes upon her said morphed into a brimful laugh once more she had the strangest impression of a dog just waiting to be petted oh there you are ruler much to her Chagrin the whiskered warrior snapped off a faux salute from where he lay sleep well how's your leg his words brought a fresh surge of heat to her cheeks for all the wrong reasons of course her eyes chose at moment to betray her those Aqua orbs idly drifting towards his lips the same lips that had laid on her forehead only hours before stop bad girl down Jean down I have recovered adequately thank you coughing to hide her blush she turned her face aside I take it your Excursion wasn't well received by your allies something like that he grinned sheepishly in spite of the knod out rushing to his head if my master hadn't given the go ahead I wouldn't have bothered still it all worked out in the end anyway turns out that damn priest was the one who sent Lancer your way those Keen eyes didn't miss the stiffening of her shoulders but neither did they acknowledge it at any rate Assassin of red may or may not be an ally now though I can't speak for Cara doesn't seemed to have his head on straight that one Speaking of which you're upside down you know this time ruler was unable to hide her smile no you're laying on your back the blonde blinked rapidly huh so I am arching his shoulders Naruto snapped to his feet in a single fluid motion and a lighted on the bed roll opposite her cocking his head aside he regarded its still slumbering occupant quietly a marked Hand Rose and fell smoothing silver Tresses with infinite care wey not to stir them from their sleep unbidden Jean's gaze followed his only to stiffen when she realized what lurked in the room with them as softest sigh graced her ears as the bed's occupant shifted tucking their compact form against that arm nuzzling his hand to their cheek didn't notice her did you he rumbled knowingly that's presence concealment for you I don't think she even realizes she's doing it something else flitted across Naruto's face and for a fleeting moment Jean caught a glimpsed just a glancy off his intentions she felt like an intruder witnessing an intimate moment between parent and child naked vulnerable yes there was still the matter of that child she hadn't even noticed her no not a child assassin an amalgamation of count Souls fused together in one physical body Jack the Ripper wasn't at all who or what she'd expected when she arrived even now some small part of her refused to accept it tiny and petite with scarcely any clothes to speak of the Assassin of black seemed more a little L than a hardened killer a lost lamb in the war to come wherever Berserker went she would follow after him like a lost puppy when he left she would collapse into herself as if she couldn't bear to exist without him now with her face softened in sleep one could almost mistake her for a normal girl not Jean she glimpsed her true face and the truth that came with it this girl was both night and day killer yet innocent should not those Souls be released to the Lord's Embrace was it not her Duty did they not deserve peace was the entity known as Jack a false existence or a true one she suspected any attempt to save the tormented Spirits residing within Young Jack would be met with open hostility by the rest of the Red Faction there would always be some contention on that moreover atlan that is to say archer ofit seemed keen on the little wisp of a girl protective even nothing so overt is trailing Jack outright mind but just enough to make that presence felt despite her absence no doubt she was somewhere nearby ready to intervene at a moment's notice there would be more than tension there if she made any moves toward Jack of that much Jean remained certain no she wouldn't lower her guard appearances could be deceiving and this was war after all one could never tell when or where the tides would turn whether allies would become enemy or adversaries turned to allies even a little girl still Jean could not hold her tongue forever you seemed good with children Berserker the words felt forced and stilted coming from one such as her but they pierced the fog between them nonetheless did you have children in your past life soft laughter like velvet brushed across her ears more than I could count for his part Naruto offered a non-committal hum as the young assassin nuzzled against his arm remind me to tell you about baruto and himare sometime at first I really sucked at being a parent by now I'm an old hand at this sort of thing you know what they say once a father always a father on that much they agreed I have questions she managed concerning last night about me or the battle he reposted both I suppose fair enough the blond's head bobbed in agreement though his eyes never left assassin's slumbering face not too loudly now at this he finally relented and took his hand from her head before Rising slowly from the bed wouldn't want to wake her now would we ow to hell with it she couldn't bring herself to harm that face no we wouldn't with great care he claimed the empty space beside her and clasped His Hands where would you like to start so she did where do you hail from Jean inquired don't suppose you'd heard of the elemental Nations I have not just like I haven't heard of France a the blonde ribbed elbowing her in the side that's to be expected I suppose after all it's not every day you get to converse with a saint never thought I'd be shooting the breeze with the the maiden of Orleans herself I'm honored she most certainly did not utter that undignified squeak just now no not at all how did you know who you were Naruto countered happily poking her forehead with his free hand it's not hard to guess few qualify for the ruler class to begin you'd have to be a Sint Wich surprise surprise you are the flag was a dead giveaway to begin with you're a dead ringer for her seriously if you're not Jean dark I'll eat my boot here and now we we madelle fat that was a horrible accent Jean pmed her face and groaned as the bed rocked beneath them I take back everything said you're horrible I regret nothing whisker cheeks dimpled in a small smile anything else you want to ask there was again that simple Frank boldness that confounded her so did it have something to do with his Madness enhancement you're awfully forthcoming for a heroic Spirit him a clawed finger Rose idly tracing lazy circles on the sheets suppose I am wonder why that is maybe being summoned as a Berserker lowered my inhibitions this time around or perhaps that just came with living a long life guess I've always been chaotic good in spite of her best efforts Jee almost found herself returning his smile once more there was a strange unorthodox charm to berser of red it was part of the reason she'd accompanied him here despite her initial protests back at the road for all his strength and Sanity or lack thereof genuinely wasn't interested in doing battle with her nor did he seem keen on fighting at all really his objective remained a mystery to her one that seemed to grow more appealing the longer she spent in his presence so why why couldn't she bring herself to focus around him she certainly would not fight the black faction for this man for her role must remain neutral in this war it was her duty to observe and Ensure events were conducted fairly she had no side but something was wrong with this war though she knew not what she felt it on an instinctual level servants stealing servants banding together attacking her out of the blue even the baffling lack of Masters whose presence remained far too faint in a fundamental level some key part of this war had gone a Miss if it meant she could meet the mysterious officiator behind the Red Faction the very one who tried to silence her for reasons she didn't understand for that at least she could be patient someone however could not Berserker to C nuto set his tongue it didn't take long looks like sisu sold me out whatever do you mean by before the maiden of Orleans could pose that question a familiar armored figure stormed through the breach Naruto had made and locked an arm around his neck from behind to his credit the whiskered warrior did little more than squawk in surprise when the owner of said liin clamped down on him with a series of harsh clanks the knight's helmet disassembled itself and crumpled to their shoulders revealing the livid Visage lurking within wild turquoise eyes bored down into his with frightful intensity her lips parted in a half snarl as she leaned over her prey so this is where you were hiding damn sneaky bastard mortared growled hauling him closer what do you have to say for yourself I plead the fifth he ventured weakly raising his hands and feeble defense denied H as expected of saber of red no one else possessed lungs of such a high caliber in another life Jee might have pied the object of her wrath as it stood she felt little empathy for the bedraggled blonde at the moment why you ask perhaps it had something to do with the shating grin currently adorning his whiskered Visage as he fled anyone capable of enduring car's Onslaught had little to fear when faced with the night of rebell Reon herself whatever he had done to offend her well he'd long since made his bed now he would just have to sleep in it sua there any way I can convince you not to strangle me what follow I did not quite meet ruler's expectations food both blonds blinked want to run that by me again Naruto coted you are taking me off for food the proud warrior repeated emphatically jabbing a finger against his collar bone with each word close two I'm sick of Waltzing around in my armor and that damn Necromancer won't get out of bed so you're it her declaration finally reactivated Naruto causing him to bat her prying hands aside H growling the whiskered warrior straightened up fixing her with a disbelieving look what the hell saber you can do that [ __ ] yourself why do you need me I need to draw up plans for the attack with archer just go grab some takeout or something for a terrifying moment she almost thought the two would come to blows once more her expectations found themselves violently usurped Mor's lower lip trembled just so and then quite suddenly it's boring alone H to her complete and utter disbelief Sabre actually released Berserker and flung herself to the floor in a heap of flailing limbs at first r feared an attack but none came no sooner had she landed and she began to thrash about the room as an unruly child might rolling to and fro like a broken top Jee had never seen a knight throw a tantrum before indeed Mort showed no signs of stopping this this was the legendary Night of rebellion a great betrayer who had torn the round table apart from the inside and aspired to steal that great Throne under any other cence it would have been downright comical first time for everything she supposed evidently Naruto felt the same because he flung up his hands and gave a great shout of his own fine fine whatever you say your majesty I'll take you out just stop morid stiffened it was like flipping a switch in a heartbeat the unruly servant of red surged back to her feet and rammed her forehead against that of Naruto's any hint of that recalcitrant girl she'd been mere moments before vanished replaced by a strange burning curiosity she didn't attack didn't speak didn't move Jean wasn't even sure she was breathing beneath all that armor she'd gone deathly still quiet as the grave with no hint as to what had brought on this Sudden Change in Behavior was that a blush adorning her cheeks no surely she must be imagining it pressing herself yet closer to Berserker the warrior murmured softly oi zombie what was that bit you shouted at me there just stopped Naruto tilted his head baffled no idiot before that she snapped H your majesty a blank say it again seriously a blonde brow Rose in mild consternation this have something to do with your wish for the Grail or with that whatever strange spell had fallen over the night of rebellion Ended as abruptly as it had begun all at once her tan Visage blazed an alarming shade of crimson sense reasserted itself to the durge of the night's own tattered tions her mouth worked wordlessly as shame and embarrassment waged a war for her body alongside Pride eventually the ladder went out crying out morward reared back and smashed her forehead against his in a devastating headbutt sending her fellow blonde reeling back half a step eyes rolling in his head like mad marbles Berserker staggered away in a days what is it with you people and headbutting me He groaned it's nothing come on we're going but I promised at Atlanta TCH F bring her sure just let me tell my man as her his reply ended in a pain yelp when his fellow servant planted a palm against against his back and shoved forcing him away ahead of her hey stop pulling what's the rush in no time at all she'd viciously frog marked Berserker back through the hole in the wall with all the mercy of a drill sergeant struggling against his fellow blonde the cloaked warrior managed to dig his heels in and get an arm loose enough to sketch an awkward wave in ruler's Direction what about Jean mored absolutely hissed so you're calling her Jean now in hindsight Naruto really should have kept his mouth shut or denied it at the very least he wouldn't of course Jee knew enough about her fellow Blonde by now to know he wouldn't pass up an opportunity to tease someone least of all an ally rather he couldn't it was simply in his nature now under any other surance he might have escaped with his hide intact as it stood this time he pushed just a little too far perhaps it had been his intent all along perhaps not regardless of the fact the results that followed were nothing short of spectacular oh is someone jealous MRI in it sounds like a GAC the cause of the blonde sudden shout soon became apparent with the twang of a bow string oh dear Archer of Reds at atanta ruler ruthlessly reminded hsel voice hailed from a nearby passageway moments later the servant in question appeared bow in hand weapon aside that Stony gaze would have sent a lesser man shrieking for the hills I appeared to have shot you in the knee by mistake Berserker forgive me I was aiming for your foot th that that was on purpose damn it said Berserker groaned what is wrong with you or did you even come from I've done nothing to deserve this ruler didn't see the second Arrow but Naruto certainly felt it if his Yelp was any indication did it sound a touch force perhaps she witnessed his inhuman endurance for herself surely something like a few arrows wouldn't cause him any real pain if adelanta suspected any such thing she did precious little to show it a pointless question shall we go then the archering question hummed I believe he made each of us a promise Jean had never heard Mortor any on like that before now she never wanted to again he did didn't he she crowed you're not so bad after all Archer I try now then Berserker I hope you prepared yourself ruler Naruto wailed save me no I think not Jean was almost tempted to argue that point and come to his defense but with Archer's arrival she simply didn't have it in her to blabber this madness any longer remarkably assassin had slept through the blond's tyde somehow her sleep unscathed despite the chaos that both saber and Berserker had brought with them Jee almost envied her that with that she could sleep like the dead suddenly the idea of going back to bed seemed infinitely more appealing than suffering through the rest of this morning Insanity assass nor no she thought herself prepared for the chaos of this war clearly she'd been wrong at the last Jee risked one final glance at the no captive Naruto to make certain as he was dragged marched towards his inevitable Doom in that moment the whiskered warrior caught her eye unbeknownst to his captors slowly almost imperceptibly he winked baffled by this sudden display the saint could only blink realization struck a hammer blow not a heartbeat later that bastard he was playing the fool after all solely for the sake of getting saber and Archer to bond it seemed so unlikely that neither would give it any thought rather they would chalk it up to Berserker simply being his usual foolish self they' never realized he had deliberately orated these events solely for the sake of drawing them closer to one another that that was actually a little frightening now that ruler truly gave the matter thought it meant Berserker knew more than she gave him credit for far more yet again she found herself forced to revise her opinion of what seemed like a harmless Jester anyone foolish enough to face him headon in the war to come would be in for a rude awakening in the end the maiden of orleans's response proved decidedly unsane likee while I am not nearly awake enough to deal with this [ __ ] within moments she' buried her head in a pillow sleep found her shortly thereafter Berserker trying to kill me Shir takasa amakusa had experienced many emotions in his Heyday love joy sorrow and oh yes hatred surprise was rarely one of them a note of incredulity mingled with the fading afternoon sunlight filtered through Windows of stained glass to cast an ominous Shadow upon his face the dawn had come and gone night would soon be upon them with all the chaos that it brought yet those mocking words continued to echo through the church folding endlessly and on themselves like a pair of paper dolls until not remained but silence already their owner felt the telltale signs of migraine beginning to bloom in the back of his head manifesting as a dull throbbing sensation amidst his temples that one again his lips pursed into a rare frown perhaps I should have killed him when I had the chance did I stutter assassin's voice cracked like a whip reminding him of his audience right he didn't have the liberty of dwelling on his own shortcomings Gods above where had Shakespeare wandered off to this time he sorely hoped the fool wasn't wandering about trius at length shiru exhaled and Rose from his kneeling position below the altar stifling an Impulse to sigh for what felt like the een teenth time this hour it felt as though he'd been doing an awful lot of sighing from the moment he' laid eyes on that one under any other cences he would have greeted his servant with a smile improper though those feelings might be he felt he should foster them His Wish hinged on her cooperation after all now more than ever considering she'd nearly lost her life to that impudent arroganti start of a Berserker for a moment just a moment his Pleasant facade slipped and that's quite the face you're making Master as ever assassin's expression didn't waver no wait he lied there was an ember of annoyance replacing the usual glowering tenderness she wore when addressing him a fire that threatened to grow into a roaring Blaze at the slightest provocation oh dear had Berserker gotten to her his well-planted doubts in her might this wouldn't do he might to address that he couldn't afford to have saramis doubt him now her hanging gardens of Babylon were a critical part of the plan without them retrieving the greater Grail would prove difficult indeed composing his face into a pleasant mask the irritated priest sketched a humble bow my apologies saramis I suppose the stress has been getting to me sure enough assassin's uncertainty dissolved into a satisfied smirk so long as you understand oh sheir understood he simply hadn't expected a servant to actually be up for his much less one capable of kidnapping samiramis yes having cast aside such sentiment long ago he could view the situation rationally or another might have felt fear anger or even doubt he merely experienced mild curiosity just how was he out maneuvering him in this war how had sensed the Trap laying and wait for him and his master how did he spear it assassin away without him knowing until this very moment how indeed Lancer had hinted at such a technique Upon returning from his duel but this only solidified Shear's prior belief claiming a seat in the Pew beside her he willed concern he didn't necessarily feel into his voice he didn't hurt you did he instead of producing the desired effect of soothing her amakusa found himself faced with a dark look he did his servant relented biting her a fingernail in exasperation then he healed me I don't understand him and you believe he asked for a truce he even knew my identity uh Shear managed eloquently it wasn't that he dislikes sarami he simply doubted berserker's ability to kill her he was far too predictable for his own good truce or no Berserker of red needed to die if saramis was to be believed he'd already drawn a number of servants to his side under his Banner a portion of the red action threatened to break away entirely had it simply been saber and cisu he would not have expended such effort even Atlanta alone would have been no great loss in the long run one easily brought back into the fold upon claiming the command spells of her master though more preparation was yet required for that the Berserker and rum had not only broken ranks the former had gone out of his way to thwart Cara's assassination of ruler any further attempts would likely be met with open hostility worse they'd stolen a servant of black for themselves that brought their numbers to five Rider assassin Caster Lancer including himself they numbered six still his side retained the numerical superiority for now but who knew when that statistic would change for now he would continue to play the game and he prodded what do you think of him Samurai grit her teeth a fool she was hiding something how unfortunate I see are the Hanging Gardens finished then saramis averted her gaze nearly so by tomorrow at the latest I'd expect him shiru murmured absently his mind already elsewhere we nearly ready then Berserker was a man driven by emotion impulse sentiment as such it was almost painfully easy to predict his next move and thus counter him shiru who had forsaken a heart filled with hatred for the sake of humankind's Salvation could understand that much after all he too had once been consumed by emotion driven by it dominated by it feelings could be treacherous precisely why he resolved to discarded them in the first place after all Humanity's future was at stake if everyone could simply abandon their selfishness and saved others could not such a world be created a realm where everyone was saved and happy some might call such a wish naive flawed even but he cared not for their thoughts this was his wish for the Grail he would not be denied not this time for the sake of that dream he would not hesitate no he could not he would destroy any adversary without hesitation all obstacles must be eliminated Those whom he could not kill such as Lancer or assassin would manipulate into doing his bidding the weaker ones he would crush and as for Berserker did he have this niggling suspicion that he knew him not on a personal level but his identity that whiskered face the Crimson coat the distinctive way he finished his sentences that unorthodox way of fighting and that damn Charisma something said he's usumaki Naruto you know him the blacket frowned I'm peripherally aware of his Legend thumbing his chin the priest paused and leaned forward to consider her words he's a hero from long ago albeit an obscure one they say he secured lasting peace in his era for more than 300 years someone like that doesn't strike me as a Berserker frankly I'm surprised he was summoned as such in this war it must have something to do with his Noble fantasm a haunted look flashed through the poisoner's Gaze oh he caught it immediately you saw it didn't you silence Simon absolutely hissed I will not speak of it clearly he's a threat He relented he'll have to be eliminated ruler 2 assassin actually blinked I gave him my word that he wouldn't be harmed it left unspoken was the silent threat that's my kill take him from me at your own Peril you didn't give him mine Shear pointed out in any case it doesn't matter he's no match for Lancer and Ryder there was again that brief fur of uncertainty in her eyes doubt Poison by something he didn't understand carelessly he dismissed it as inconsequential his thoughts drifting once more to the matter of at hand samiramis was loyal to him surely it would take more than a seat of Doubt for her to betray his trust perhaps had he not been so fixated on his goal he might have lent the matter more thought but he did not shiru could not be faulted for this there was no malice held in his heart only pure unflinching resolve you intend to kill him then amusa favored her with a small smile naturally it's the best course of action after all are you sure that was the best course of action if she was at all displeased by sisu's blunt inquiry Gene rum did little to show it on the contrary the Gil wheel seemed quietly satisfied with the plans they'd made her bespectacled gaze never wavered from the map before them her left hand idly diving their servants route even as the right occupied itself with another matter on the opposite side there was a Telltale gleam in her gaze that the old Necromancer knew all too well on that boded for whomever found themselves on the receiving end of that stoic glare he almost pied them almost still the matter needed to be addressed we're exposed here without our servants laying a hand upon the weathered hand upon the table he fixed the brunette with a measuring look surely you understand that and a must jumped in Kyrie's jaw we can't count on ruler if it comes to a fight the necromance are pressed finally drawing a scathing look from his ally as a dainty sneeze answered from a nearby room she sworn herself to neutrality remember when she didn't challenge him he bowled on ahead in spite of her silence and you just let 3/4s of our forces walk out the door who knows when they'll return if the enemy finds us here we won't be able to retreat I understand your concerns but would you kindly calm down with a tempered sborn of harden steel the younger Magus finally raised her icy gaze to meet his Kyrie nearly bed Spirit he'd forgotten just how vicious Jean could be when backed into a corner after all she was a monster who specialized in combat one Who removed any and all opposition without Mercy to think otherwise was akin to anathema for him for all her social awkwardness and odd mannerisms Jee was nearly his equal when it came to Mega's combat she'd likely got him with one of her checks if he continued his present course of action allies they might well be but he didn't want to push her too far no need to concern yourself his fellow Magus reassured him if worst comes to worst we've still got this one slender fingers de assassin silver man sending the girl into fresh paroxysms of delight at her side mmhm that feels nice she purred happily keep going are you sure we can trust her Kyrie muttered what not to trust those dark eyes drifted back to the parchment beneath them the crystal beneath her fingers slowly trailing its way North she's bound to Berserker which means she's also bound to me killing me would deprive her of him which in turn ensures her loyalty to our cause it's Elementary really you say that but she's still part of the black faction doesn't that concern you the bibliomaniac arched a thick eyebrow at him in mild consternation say Jackson she hummed aloud would you betray us round innocent eyes of Spun gold rose up to meet hers why would we do that she blinked we like you and why do you like us Jean prodded assassin offered another slow blink at that and tilted her head aside to regard them so small so innocent almost like no Kyrie felt his heart give an unpleasant Lurch in his the sight stirred up unpleasant memories in the Bedrock of his mind a poignant reminder of his own desperate wish for the Holy Grail you're like on itchin she began to count off her gloved fingers slowly you keep us safe and warm warm you feed us when we're hungry you gave us clothes we like that why would we give that up the wind wielder offered sisu Angelic smile see no problems oi Hoy Hoy this woman was Troublesome of that there could be no doubt no amount of effort on his part would convince her no honeyed words could ever hope to sway her thoughts she was driven by pure purpose a Wild single-minded goal in which she would trample all others to reach honestly she terrified him more than any servant Berserker and saber would eventually vanish upon the war's conclusion but Gene rum would undoubtedly remain not only was she cunning but ruthless to boot it would take more than the black faction possessed to do her in speaking of said faction the necromancers cough harshly in a vain attempt to hide his discomfort you do realize those IG Millennia bastards aren't going to take this lying down he warned following the route she divined in the boundary upon which it had come to rest whether Berserker knows it or not he's essentially invading their territory they'll take that as a provocation the wind wielder smile turned positively feral of course un counting on it you want them to attack but of course steeping her fingers in a tent formation Gene cast The Crystal down onto the map rather that tumble madly as one might expect it to light it upon a single point and stood rigid moments later it began to pulse a Gastly shade of crimson before finally clearing to reveal an image gradually said image resolved into a moving scene of sorts behind the tinted shades of his sunglasses the scarred Magus narrowed his gaze he recognized the name etched into the map the very same location they described not long ago caur given the frequency of its pulsations one could only assume that was where the trio had wandered off to sure enough he spite a shock of blonde hair amidst the towns folk wait a minute are they doing what I think they're rer saber Archer one by one Jee recited their names her lips moving slowly around the words that Placid gaze never once leaving the crude Crystal nor the seam playing out within two Frontline Fighters coupled with his support walking about in broad daylight fresh fruit ripe for the picking the enemy won't be able to resist from what little we know of them they're likely to send Servants of their own to determine our strength two at the least possibly three this way you and I will be safely out of Harm's Way while we their weakness yet still able to give orders of our own then when the time comes we can join the fry and be prepared for the next battle brilliant no still doesn't sit right with me suck it up cupcake rum Pur ouch he whistled forgot about that sharp tongue of yours Jean set her teeth at him in light warning shall I remind you then no no I'm good a scarred Magus raised his right hand to ward off pleasant memories they've been more than allies once in their friendship had endured despite that truly he couldn't have found a better partner in this war now if only he could convince her to let him have his wish I'm sorry am I interrupting a distant clamor claimed their attention punctuated by a soft yawn moments later ruler finally made her presence known to them as she glided into the room though her hair was still tousled from sleep suggesting she'd simply opted to take a nap rather than endure Naruto's Shenanigans any longer the armored blonde still projected an air of quiet stoicism those deep violet eyes remained clouded however their owner deep in thought then she spied Jack in a spark of confusion danced through the Lilac gaze the ladder retaliated with a cheery wave ah the Sleeping Beauty stirs at last Jean hummed we were beginning to wonder if you'd ever wake up morning assassin cheered happily sleep while Kyrie waggled a thick brow at her startled out of her Ry the blonde offered a rapid blink and bobbed her head yes she murmured hastily thank you for your hospitality Jean smirked we weren't too loud oi now are you trying to provoke her the slightest twitch passed through ruler's Serene Visage gone before either Magus could claim it had even existed my rest was sufficient she relented with a humble bow I will be taking my leave shortly already Jack whined I wanted to play perhaps next time there it was again that strange stiffness in ruler's shoulders it wasn't anger or sorrow Kyrie noted one might hearken it to confusion as though ruler couldn't decided how best to speak to Assassin it seemed a strange hangup for one elevated to sainthood in any case that was none of his concern it was as if such a conflicted emotion could possibly tear her apart this was a servant after all she was built of Sterner stuff than most oh Jack sighed her shoulder drooping into feet putting her discomfort for assassin aside one couldn't help but be at ease around ruler even sisu found it something of an effort to keep his guard up perhaps it had something to do with her being a saint werker had been much to Jean's chly forthcoming about her identity a legendary maiden of Orleans herself what had he said about her again something about her being too pure for her own good she'd even gone out of her way to thank them when she could have easily slipped away without a word someone like this could no sooner stab them in the back than she could forsake her own beliefs moreover she was bound by the rules of the Grail itself to be impartial so long as that belief wasn't corroded they had nothing to fear from her a low grumbled Rose and vicious descent well perhaps her appetite is the unlikely Trio looked on a faint flush crept up across Jean's face indeed the slow flushing of her saintly Visage was something cigu would take to his grave it almost made him want to bully her more often oh he'd almost forgotten ruler possessed a physical body didn't she Berserker had mentioned that in passing she likely had to eat to sustain her physical form in this world poor thing she'd really drawn a bad hand in this war was it wrong that Kyrie felt sorry for her now we've got a bit of breakfast left over he offered want some I couldn't possibly imp tune further on your generosity than I already have ruler's stomach offered another plaintive wine of disagreement far louder than the last I suppose I can stay a moment more she averted her gaze face downcast to hide her silent shame while I'm here I wish to inquire about something about Berserker jeene tilted her head I confess myself curious did you summon him intentionally I know about as much as you do rum replied with a small shrug probably less given the eyes he's been making at you he's surprisingly fickle that one it's not like I expected to pull him in any case she waved her marked hand about aily for emphasis frankly I would have preferred the Caster class easier to control and all that still that bespectacled gaze shifted then regarding the seals and printed upon the back of her Palm with something dangerously akin to Nostalgia he's been good to me thus far when I give a bad order he'll tell me so straight to my face he even went so far as to save Jack when he had no need to I won't give him up without a fight you know you'll have to work for it Jean absolutely sputtered hway relax I'm kidding the maggus laughed and lowered her hand you're cute when you're flustered a hot and her put you up to this Gene demanded he might have the maggus relented passing her a pale of dried bacon nay n assassin piped up Suddenly drawing All Eyes to her if Naruto own iten's Papa ruler stiffened too late Kyrie realized what was about to transpire before them assassin whatever you're about to say Do not those innocent orbs swiveled upon Jean rum does it make you our mama then Jean went pale as a fresh sheet foolishly Kyrie snickered ruer squeaked Doom ho an aura of palpable malice radiated from the the Gail wheel's shoulders threatening to smother if he looked her in the eye a strange lilting laugh arose from His companion to set him on edge no he couldn't bring himself to look rather he mustn't look to meet rum's gaze now would be akin to setting off a nuclear warhead the only thing that awaited him at the end of that road was a swift demise moreover if he moved now he was almost certain Jean would attack him he had to be still a silent Stone in the river unyielding unmoving utterly unyielding to anything sisu Jee purred softly did you laugh at me just now in the end Temptation finally went out and he looked up in my defense I wasn't an expecting thought to AR Jean's fist barreled upward into his face ruler groaned softly to herself Lord preserve me Madness absolute Madness try as he might darn it couldn't comprehend what he was looking at indeed to understand the enemy's plan one would have to be insane or exceedingly sentimental as he was neither of these things or could he ever hope to bet head of the egg Millennia Clan found himself at something of an impass to say he was displeased would be akin to calling water wet an understatement in the purest sense of the word with each passing moment his ey grew sparking towards an inevitable clusion this made no sense he darnik Prestone egg Millennia hadd slashed and struggled to stand where he stood now Decades of planning had led to this moment he'd fought in countless battles stolen the Holy Grail itself and used it as leverage to break away from the association it was he who had manipulated the terms of this war he who had bolstered the ranks of his clan in preparation for the coming battle and he who stood to gain from it all now they stood at a critical juncture on the cusp of acquiring all the Mysteries and miracles of this world reaching the root their long cherished dream was finally within reach all that remained was for the enemy to make their move and come to them as they must Black versus red now thanks in no small part to Caster skilled scrying he and a number of the black faction finally beheld their foes for the first time one of them had tripped a bounded field near the town thereby enabling Avis sprin to utilize one of his familiars to observe the enemy servants from afar three of them no less one was easily recognized as Berserker of red the same staggering fool who'd invaded their castle some days ago accosted their own Berserker and made off with a bottle of wine before turning to smoke under Lancers assault the others remained unknown to them but one could easily surmise them to be Archer and saber judging by their armaments a formidable Trio indeed yet they weren't doing anything rather than approach the castle they' spent the last two hours waling through town like utter fools imbeciles with no purpose in mind of their masters there remained no sign of course only a fool would willingly throw themselves In Harm's Way they'd either sent their familiars ahead concealed themselves with thury or Blended among the populace with such skill that any attempt to root them out would prove fruitless to make matters worse The Grail had become increasingly erratic as of late it had taken to pulsing at strange intervals almost akin to that of a human heart they couldn't figure out the cause from the moment Berserker had invaded the greater Grail began to react violently perhaps it was just that impatient hungry for the energy that the slain servants would provide whatever the case it wasn't something they could address now if the situation worsened perhaps then they might be able to do something but as the situation stood there was simply nothing they could seow just what was the enemy plotting so he lives after all AO Regal voice cast its shadow over his thoughts surprising masking his own concern darnik Fain a bow it is as you say my Lord lowering his head he watched his servant rise from the throne to survey the screen the man's face was a study of contrasts though those bright eyes were indeed tight with anger the faintest of smiles adorned his pale Visage he seemed almost pleased by this unexpected Revelation indeed the Magus recognized a kindred spirit in those terrifying orbs respect for an enemy something had caught his interest no someone hmmph glaner rumbled thumbing his chin that is our Intruder is it not when no dared challenge him that small spry smirk tore into a true grin I suspect it as much I'm surprised a petty Thief could survive my attack darnik pred this was the absolute trump card of the black faction a servant so absurdly overpowered as to be able to Scorn the gods themselves Vlad TS three they had gone to Great Lengths to summon him here in his homeland where he stood at the absolute peak of his power Romania may be a small country but it was here that Lancer was truly in his prime his element Transylvania was his territory so long as he remained within one might even think him Invincible that he had a bone to pick with Berserker of red was simply icing on the cake as far as darnik was concerned after all it wasn't every day that A thieving wretch invaded a Lord's castle and lived to tell the tale Vlad likely wished to kill Berserker as a matter of Pride honor demanded it that suited darnik just fine he'd happily let the two of them tear one another to shreds two meow monsters masquerading his men there was certainly some irony to be had there in a fit of Whimsy he almost six Lancer on reds Berserker outright but thought better of it at the last moment no better to keep him close command spells were precious and not to be wasted wanly certainly not if he were ever to make Lancer use that moreover it was important that his servant believe himself to be in control for the moment nothing was further from the truth of course ifer darnik saw him as little more than a familiar but the RO remained regardless though the years may have dulled his Spirit his silver tongue still remain sharp so long as Vlad thought otherwise his scheme would unfold as planned Berserker meanwhile stiffened in quiet consternation Berserker of re the tiot what is he thinking perhaps it was a side effect of their encounter but her thoughts had proven to her great distress increasingly coherent is of late almost frightfully so while speech was still denied to her and thank small Mercy for that W found herself terribly our cursedly sane enough to rage at him certainly and yet she would not only her master could sense her discontent but she refused to divulge the reason to him calls might wonder what had riled her up yet without a voice she could never tell him her thoughts were another matter she wanted to reach through the screen and throttle that blonde buffoon he wandered into their territory without even noticing weight maybe he had was that why he brought reinforcements or was he simply that naiva Tangled of emotion right in her stomach at the thought try as she might she couldn't untangle it Berserker of red Naruto is the enemy someone who must be defeated by right she shouldn't care what happened to him and yet she could not it made no sense she barely knew him indeed she owed him nothing less than nothing he' given her wilting flowers and a smile a few kind words in parting an offer of peace nothing concrete beyond that he had not asked for her loyalty and while she certainly wasn't about to give it to him neither could she banish that smiling face from her mind she should hate him loath him he don't something to her mind an act that threatened to bring her Memories Back and all the pain with them she ought to find him and grind his skull beneath her heel obliterate him with her blasted tree and yet she did not why exasperated she tore at her hair in a fit of peak and shrieked her Fury to the ceiling a r g agreed Berserker he certainly isn't the subtle type Archer sanded Fran nearly clobbered his head off in recompense for his tarity that wasn't what I said and you know it shitty centor think he's challenging us rder tilted her head hell if I know I don't understand him Lancer offered a non-committal grunt of of his own perhaps he wishes to lure us out then this is a trap clearly Caster's masked face betrayed no hint of emotion as he regarded the strange scene unfolding before them they expect us to come for them perhaps sensing that very thought the red one turned wild blue eyes Rose to find the familiar and by extension those watching whiskered cheeks dimpled in a Sly smile claw fingers crooked in a kameha motion beckoning at the clay pigeon as much as those observing through its lone eye perhaps triggered by the motion Caster's creation zoomed in upon the cloaked warrior further exposing his face to view despite the league separating them in spite of his Entourage and the nearby servants well within Arms Reach Berserker felt a subtle chill race down her spine there was a fierce light in those Azure orbs the look of a beast tethered Upon A fraying leash one she prayed he himself would never face then those lips parted for her framing three simple words T yet us as she looked on a knife flew from his hand with uniring accuracy to strike Caster's familiar head on sending the screen and likely the familiar with it treaking into static a beat of Silence followed broken only the Stray squawk of noise as the creep nature tried and failed to reconstruct itself in that fleeting instant Berserker almost dared to hope her fellow servants and the rest of the black faction alongside them would simply dro the matter and let them do as they pleased it was not to be h a harsh laugh belted out of Lancer startling all assembled how amusing rather than greet the interruption with anger as one might expect of their leader he bellowed out a hearty cackle mouth stretching and a craz smile all his own perhaps he isn't a thief at all but an Invader one who welcomes adversity with open arms he wouldn't be a worthy opponent if he could die from something like this do we have more in the area darn inquired Softly As Lancer continued to shout his adversary's Praises a handful have iin relented I can ready another group shortly if need be send a few golems and a monkey Li then no wait until evening vad interjected forcefully before darnik could finish the command we wouldn't want to upset the good people of trifas now would we still it would be remiss of us if we didn't send someone to greet the three of them at some unseen thought he nodded to himself yes that settles it then I shall take the field myself to meet him he will Ru the day he set foot here but I cannot do so alone without missing a beat he turned to face the rest of them boot said sharply against the Stone Arms spread wide at his sides Frankenstein went rigid might I have another volunteer Vlad inquired who me me me rer cheered I volunteer hmmph you seem awfully eager as stalo selanik frowned Jay there it is again that looked the pette flinched and tried to hide in her voluminous cloak needless to say she failed spectacularly I'm just eager to go outside when her master's glare intensified she flailed her arms wildly nearly brandishing her Lance in her haste to escape from the sadistic gaze yes that's it no ulterior motives at all nope none very well to berserker's dismay Sav of black stepped forth as well I confess I am curious about this Berserker of red might I join you what are you doing saber gourd sputtered I gave you no such permission SE freed that great silent hero who had spoken so little since his summoning only inclined his head in respect respectfully Master this is something I wish to do please understand I will not allow harm to befall you in any way as the rest of the black faction looked on the portly man's face began to turn an alarming shade of Pew Fran wondered if the round Magus would pop from sheer anger was such a thing possible if so it might prove diverting enough to distract her from her own woes she rather disliked this fool a heart of gold he might well have but it was buried beneath an eagle the size of trifas and a pride Thrice as thick would it be too much to ask for him to spit himself upon saber's sword and spare them all the pain of his continued existence you ungrateful familiar the enough dornik snapped silencing him I'll allow it to C and just like Fran wanted to bash her head against a wall all over again rer and her eccentricities aside two of the black faction's most powerful servants had just declared their intent towards her wood Ally legend or no allies or not she knew Berserker would be hardpressed to fend them off Lancer was the true threat here if he took it into his head to go after Berserker there was nothing she could do about it to volunteer for battle now would likely end in rejection no matter how prized their prey might be their masters surely wouldn't send more than half their servants to deal with them this Bo it most poorly very well then there was a high wild light of lad's gaze one his master recognized far too late as dare he say lust no to speak such a thing would surely end with his head on a spike tonight we three shall be joined in battle let us take the fight to the Invaders my soldiers For Better or Worse Berserkers little outing at little of fire under the normally stoic servant one he had no hope of dousing with anything short of a command spell the Elder egg Millennia groaned aloud the sound muffled against his palms just like that his great plan was rendered little more than sand how how had the situation gotten so out of hand then again who could predict a Madman so how do I look you're a cruel one saber H with the hell are you talking about a muscle jumped in Naruto's jaw throbbing alongside three veins in his Temple as he gazed at the natural vision Beauty strutting before him and I twitched fighting the reflexive urge to slam shut in that moment his heightened senses were keenly aware of their surroundings from the thinning yellow paint of a worn wall pressing against his back to the Curious patrons gazing at them even their less than Pleasant Whispers but most apt of all were the questing aqua orbs eyes of the blonde before him awaiting his answer with more than a touch of impatience still he mustn't Flinch pearly white teeth flashed back at him and and wild grin devoid of any guile or tact innocent to a fault no too innocent even someone like mortar couldn't pull off that look without being at least peripherally aware of what they were doing he wasn't fooled For a Moment by mored supposed FAA he knew the wrong answer would land him in a world of pain hell the correct response might have o an equivocal response from saber no to back down now W not only be an insult to men everywhere but it would irreparably Sunder what remained of his pride to yield here would be as good as admitting defeat thereby cementing her Victory wasn't it she couldn't possibly be that naive right Gods above why do you assail me with this temptation In This Moment he was keenly aware of mid's eyes upon him he resisted the urge to face bomb after Sabers behest he'd finally caved and purchased an outfit for her it was not what he'd expected her to wear as he looked on His companion stretched her arms to the heavens and gave a happy twirl sending the back of her coat flying about her shoulders a much better she purred stretching her limbs to their fullest length this is the best I was way too uncomfortable in that armor you have no idea I have some inkling actually arudo groaned so focused was he that he nearly missed her reply your outfit ain't half bad either I'm sorry what was that and nothing that actually drew a blink from him he hadn't given his present outfit much thought clad as he was in a crimson turtleneck and matching black jeans something simple not meant to draw attention of course any hope of that had flown right out the window with Mor's outfit part of him silently prayed that would be the end of it morid had already spent half the day simply searching for something to wear to the point that Atlanta had eventually drifted off in search of their long awaited meal was it too much to ask for this to be over already he knew it wouldn't be saber wasn't finished with him yet as he looked on she shifted her profile to present one shoulder to him and began kicking awkwardly at a nearby rack of clothes a sudden change in posture set off alarm bells in Naruto's head triggering fond memories of a past life he'd all but forgotten if he hadn't known better he would have thought she was blushing weight Keen eyes zeroed in on her face detecting the faintest flush wearing blazes had Atlanta gotten off to he'd gladly give up his knee again for a distraction right now the last thing he wanted to go is set Mor off in such an enclosed space least of all with s Millions nearby so she pressed tapping her foot impatiently why do you think does it suit me surprisingly the hell does that mean damned he'd seen the Trap still falling right into it what a drag it was shaping up to be such a nice day too his plan had been a basic one almost frightful in its Simplicity unite saber and Archer by allowing them to think they had the upper hand on him thereby eliminating the animosity between them put up a token struggle to make his protest seem somewhat believable then allow them to haul him about the town for the day while subtle conducting reconnaissance after all battles were were oftentimes won or loss based on trust and that very trust had been sorely lacking between the two women by All rights everything should have gone off without a hitch playing the fool always came easily to him ever since his youth it was a GU he could Dawn and discard as easily as one would a change of clothes at some point however they turned the tables on him clad in a white tube toop that exposed her abdomen to the elements and a Scarlet leather jacket saber seemed the epitome of the Rebel that had so defined her legend in the past coupled with a shorn pair of rough blue jeans ladder cut sinfully short well above her niece and heavy black boots she WRA reminded him of some offbeat gangster honestly all she needed now was a bat to complete the Ensemble all told there was a certain tomboyish charm to her outfit every Stitch every thread everything accentuated the subtle lines of her body in ways that clothing had no business doing if she was at all chilly she didn't seem keen on telling him how anyone could wear that in Autumn without freezing was beyond him but he likely chocked up to her own Elite Class as a servant therein lie the Crux of the matter when clad in her heavy armor it was easy to forgot that despite her protests that morid was a woman he could poke and pro her to his heart's content tease her while fully knowing he could Escape any retribution that came howling his way but now something had shifted in their Dynamic and he wasn't sure how to address it at the end of the day servant or no nuto was still very much a man and this was distracting not enough to prove dangerous mind you yet there it was not that morard was unattractive mind he simply knew she'd try to skewer him if ever called her a girl try as he might he couldn't figure out if she was doing this to tease him or if she was simply that naive when it came to clothing fine morard wanted to be like that you could play this wicked little little game of hers he'd likely get his share of lumps for this later but in the interim perhaps it was time he had a little fun of his own screw it he decided I'll tease her a little not a lie if there's a kernel of Truth and it'll write a very large kernel means you're a gorgeous Nudo drawed pushing himself off the wall the face saber fully when she failed to retreat in time he Advanced further still until her back was nearly in the very Booth from which she'd only just emerged and pressed his forehead against hers until their noses nearly touched wed bristled at once at the sudden invasion of her personal space but he wasn't yet finished with her before she could strike the ancient Shinobi leaned further still and snatched the band from her hair sending the flax and locks tumbling wildly around her ears for the pce to resistance he allowed his lips to brush the outer lobe of her right one teasingly in fact he breathed huskily I think I'm falling in love marry me Sabers eyes got really big H nuto hadn't thought it possible for someone let alone a servant such as sabtoe turned that shade of pink let alone their entire body while her mouth worked wordlessly he found he had a moment to reflect on his decision not a bad look on her he'd be lying if he said it wasn't attractive thoughts for later he supposed in any case he found himself suddenly and wholly preoccupied by her response ah and what a response it was boot worth it an armored foot slammed into Naruto's with all the explosive force of a bucking bronco to catapult the cackling ninja out of the store he was still laughing as glass shattered around him when several female customers start shrieking in fetto still laughing as he skitted back first across the Stone Street and ripped his turtleneck to Red shreds around his shoulders and still laughing as his servant attire manifest over the ruined drags of his clothes at the garments passing he felt just a sliver of remorse oh man I like that outfit he groaned Why must a Good Die Young the distant sound of Shifting Rubble claimed his attention framed in the light of the Setting Sun morid snarled at him honestly Naruto would have been somewhat worried where it not for her spinning eyes and the Crimson flush adorning her face all in all he considered it a win if only to get under the rebellious night's skin at least she gave him enough time to climb back to his feet before she started cussing him out Kitty about the sweater though www what the heck zombie where did that come from what afraid of a little honesty his grin grew incrementally as Steam spouted from her face you really are pretty when you're flustered you know oh your hair's down too not a bad look for a G shoot up shoot UPS h a d dap sure enough an armored fist streak down at his jaw at break neck speed well he'd expected her to try and punch his head clear off his shoulders it really was a good punch All Things Considered she'd cross the distance between the two of them in a blank and attacked with all the speed bellying a saber class servant such a strike would have rendered an ordinary human and a few weaker servants on the thrown little more than a red stain against the street by comparison to her earlier attack however this strike proved painfully sloppy and slow terribly woefully slow likely had something to do with her flustered State at that a gentle nudge to said wrist sent those clenched Knuckles kening harmlessly past to spare his face not so the building behind him with a devastating crunch the unfortunate home yielded to MD's punch like a house of cards that is to say it absolutely crumbled Berserker and saber both each looked on a guest as the building tumbled down around their ears neither sustained any injuries of of course naturally a servant couldn't be Feld by something as base his chunk of falling Mason ribb but the same couldn't be said for any on assuming their luck was truly that abysmal unfortunate enough to be caught up him and suing Avalanche of stone in no time at all both blondes were left standing amidst the ruins of that auny Humble Home really the conclusion was patently obvious oh crap seizing her hand in his Naruto bolted right right that's our Q exit stage left oi wait what if there were people in there dumbass mortared [ __ ] didn't sense anyone's sides a king does not pay for things that are not her both onward you absolute Bey saer started as she recognized his palm clasping hers let go of my hand I'll cut you you damn Undead let me think about that nope in a sense it felt oddly refreshing to Simply Sprint away from danger as the common folk did either of them could have simply leap aor in MD's case to materialized to safety without consequence yet they didn't it could even be said that they chose not to one was reminded of happier times before their untimely demise the others simply enjoyed the chance to stretch their legs again fup paid the any mind have been given their odd state of dress confounded as they were by the chaos by the time they reached the sun had long since dipped below the Horizon the faintest tongues of flames serving only to illuminate a series of looming clouds in the distance a dull Rumble of Thunder chased through the heavens promising rain rained of course just like that day aoto felt his jaw clench against a particularly unpleasant memory he shook his head in a vain attempt to Ward it off to no avail his good mood evaporated on the spot sullied by images of his past though his life had been a full one there were still some things he'd rather forget no bad Naruto Focus well that was unfortunate he sighed and began tugging morid who'd Fallen oddly silent down a side street let's find Atlanta before it pours a a sharp jerk on his arm hauled him backwards before he made three steps oh you trying to tear my arm off or some Mort hadn't released his hand what in blazes eyes downcast eyes shaded by those freed flex and locks he couldn't read sab's expression nevertheless her mouth moved as he looked on mumbling a series of incoherent words that is enhanced senses somehow failed to detect teasing her was tempting but a small voice in his head advised against it something told her that if he tried poking that dragon now he'd lose a finger and an arm besides straining his ears he caught the tail end of her sentence thank you she muttered a Savon want to run that by Me OK clunk her head slammed up into his chin nearly causing the whiskered warrior to bite off his tongue in mspek Yak do you have any idea how hard it is to regenerate mat tangu I said thank you you asked St were you thanking me for he groaned clutching at his mouth with his free hand the clothes damned a finger stabbed into his face momentarily causing him to pause a king always pays her debts but you're technically notada I will cut you all right all right conceding the point Naruto raised his free hand to forall another assault I'll stop his eyes flitted to their palms her fingers still gripped white knuckled around his can I have my hand back now I'm starting to lose circulation you know he expected a sputtering blush of some sort not the meish Defiance that greeted him instead saber's hand clamped down harder still no she replied hey you're not getting your arm back until I get that meal you owe me so they're pining at what she no doubt believed to be a brilant iant plan Mort proudly Thrust out her and grinned consider it payback for all that you've put me through just try and break free I won't let you your mind now zombie High even a pean would have seen through her blatant Bluff a beat of awkward silence passed between the two Warriors you really want to hold hands daa idiot don't read into it so much such a tnder her earnestness was adorable if she knew she'd got him on the spot SSO cuffing into a fist saber spun about eyeing a nearby storefront where's a good place to eat around here after dark you're asking me Naruto openly Guff out at her naivity he simply couldn't help himself that pure look in those Aqua orbs was simply too much for him to Bear any longer I thought you knew everything's probably closed by now thanks to your little Rampage noo she whed they've got to have a place open I'm fraking starving the night of rebellion ladies and gentlemen a true Glutton quiet saber snarled um let's goth th's way in the end he allowed her to have her say there was something painfully nostalgic about being L around by the arm all told even if it was an exercise and futility from the moment they'd set foot in sasur he'd experienced the strangest sensation of being watched someone or something was surveying them from afar another familiar most likely he'd already dispatched one earlier that morning but the Eerie feeling of eyes boring into his back hadn't deated in the least now doubt even now hidden creatures were observing their every action and in turn reporting back to its Master assuming his packed with seami still held the likely culprit ought to be Caster of black that suited him just fine while he would have preferred to Simply smoke out the enemy servant and thereby cease this game of hide and seek he had no doubt that they'd make their move eventually he had no doubt Archer and saber were likewise a aware of their unwanted admirers though neither had said a word of it until then he was content to play this mad little game until The Bitter End well we know the enemy is in trius so we'll need to B his words trailed off as he spied Atlanta down the street by comparison to morate her choice of dress was relatively conservative after all Sabre had basically bullied her into securing an outfit of her own at the outset of their Excursion at the time he' thought it a shame even in her servant attire she could have easily passed for human with a large hat to hide her ears and her tail curled against her back he might have thought her a normal woman she was the sort that loathed wearing anything even remotely feminine yet she'd claimed something all the same a long flowing blue dress she'd chosen for herself was so adorable that it physically snapped Naruto's head back and gave him a no sple on the spot at critical hit danger danger Will Robinson spotting them at last the Archer raised a hand in greeting there you are I was beginning to think youd wandered off again her verd and gaze took note of their intertwined hands but if she had any comment on the matter she didn't remark on it instead she cast a distasteful glance at her own figure in the dress adorning it I failed to see the purpose of this outfit it is stiff ungainly difficult to move in with a low growl she dispersed it discarding the corporeal garment in favor of her true attire do the women of this era fight in such flimsy cloth really Naruto tilted his head unable to mask his smile that looked kind of fetching on you thunk the bll whistled past his head causing him to jump and jerk free from mortar it sure enough when he turned to face Atlanta he found himself gazing upon her deadly bow ah the Pains of being a Berserker he'd gone and run his mouth again without thinking sometimes that damn Madness enhanced just wasn't worth it curse his lack of inhibition what I do I only said that sight of you was a trio of arrows sted home beside his ear before he could finish well [ __ ] the blonde guled out don't suppose you'd accept an apology Atlanta knocked a quartet of fresh arrows to her supple bow string and Drew back I'm going to give you a 5-second head start Naruto she warned I suggest you take it honestly if she hadn't been smiling he would have thought she genuinely intended to kill him crazy woman you think you're being cute don't you he groaned pming his face adela's Visage didn't waver in the least to quote a proud man I'm adorable Nudo actually blinked wait wait wait wait oh no no no you did not just team forced sty you would have said more but his senses chose that precise moment to light up like wildfire no a wildfire was too tame this it was a veritable explosion of Prana a force so great that it momentarily set his senses to reeling and it was far far far closer than he would have liked judging by his comrade's suddenly pensive Expressions even that was an understatement they're right behind me aren't they in response morid grimaced and Drew her blade slowly reluctantly he turned to face the outskirts of town you're kidding me he coked much to his surprise and utter consternation the numbered three one an effeminate Warrior clad in strange armor and Cape alike upon her shoulder cradled a massive Lance the other was a great brute of a man silver hair tumbling down armored shoulders though his in back lay exposed it was this man that set off alarm Bells rather The Sword in his hand though its owner was indeed a great Mount of a man it was his weapon that truly set him on edge every fiber of his being recoiled from the sight of it no it was the anathema to his his very existence a Peerless Noble fantasm that would surely obliterate him should it make contact this then must be saber of black only your telling that's their saber in the midst of them both rote a man clad in dark black vestments a stride and equally menacing comparison to his companions he radiated raw power a sheer sense of Presence belled by his slim frame one might even call it anura an invisible war of sheer with that promise to trample all who would oppose him as they approached he dismounted and Drew a slender Lance from the air greetings Invaders his deep resonant voice carried the distance between them I am glad the third ruler of this country whom do I have the honor of addressing arudo groaned really it was all he could think to do you not going to let us run away are you lanfer he could only be that class rewarded him with a grim smile dibs on the big guy mortared all but purred drawing her blade need to work out some issues SE freed actually piled adant aside I suppose that leaves me with the pink one the enemy servant blinked taking a back Jay what's wrong with the color pink everything Heist Alo cried now you're just being mean I suppose that leaves you with Lancer was it Archer posited was this your plan all along well much to her consternation the blonde actually grimaced well he did have a plan that he'd been saving for a moment like this it was quite brilliant even if his allies might not like it he'd been hoping to lure out one servant maybe two not that absolute monster of a Lancer certainly not someone possessing enough Prana for an entire country nope nope nope that he didn't have nearly enough energy to face down a monster like this I hate to be that guy but sure enough when Atlanta turned she found a vacant pocket of air where Berserker had once stood across the way she spied his red cloth rapidly retreating into the distance neither She nor Mort were prepared for the response that followed run away boy what the hell Atlanta nearly shot him on the spot Berserker come back here you coward to his credit Naruto actually made it several yards before a wave of what could only be called wide Stakes thrust themselves between him and Escape really it would have been a successful break if he'd been able to build a bit more speed but there it was forced to turn back lest he Dash himself on the sudden Garrison of stone Spears he quite suddenly found himself face to face with the very servant he'd sought to escape that said servant was currently poised upon a small mountain of the very spires he'd been seeking to avoid W that bodill indeed those wild eyes no longer held the touch of amusement but of quiet simmering wrath a worth a try the silence proved stifling I don't suppose you'd be willing to draw up a truce laner absolutely twitched I'm going to kill you now prepare Berserker gulped and settled into a low stance yeah I'd say that's fair he barely finished even that before his world erupted into a thousand Jagged points the greater Grail stirred slowly reluctantly like a recalcitrant child rising from its long Slumber it awoken a world gone mad while it could certainly be said that the Holy Grail possessed a consciousness of sort none realized it was alive one could even call it sensient to an extent formed from the core once known as the homunculus juses Liz Von eburn the Holy Grail held a will to be sure but few understood the definition of that desire as this iteration remained pure so too did its purpose for all its dreaming it awoke aware of the situation of the discrepancy foisted upon the war with which it was tasked there have been anomalies he knew something had gone a Miss Chief among them was that one the servant who should not exist the Berserker of red was another such anomaly one The Grail didn't understand rather than sparus that terrible Gladiator of ancient Rome a warrior of another era emerged thanks to him rather than two factions facing one another they plotted and schemed from the Shadows there was conflict but far from what it should have been the Assassin of black had already been subverted subsumed into the ranks of red with threats of others soon to follow the current ruler was not fulfilling her role in this regard rather than fulfill her purpose objectively she'd taken in with the Servants of red worse the cences of her summoning had been skewed somehow leading to her possessing a physical body rather than a spiritual one the one who should not exist was like to blame for that and then there was that wretched human the one known as darnik even now trying to alter it to suit his needs this would not stand not the servant from the last war not the Berserker and certainly not this metalsome Magus tendrils of thought reached out across space and time stretching from its cradle in the EG Millennia Fortress to find the servants it had brought into this world it found found three of them readily enough nearby identifying them as Servants of black alongside their masters Caster Archer Berserker each on standby each prepared for an assault this was good well within calculations the Reserve System was functioning properly nothing a miss here though the muddled mindset of the Berserker of black was mildly troubling no matter the Grail didn't deem it a dire problem and thus moved on still further it stretched out its awareness searching for the rest of its flock Lancer of red blazed before her senses like a funeral P oddly stationary in the distance further still she found Assassin of black cuddled up with two masters of red in quiet Slumber further from all the rest of her kin Assassin of red toiled tirelessly to construct her endless Gardens as it observed a distant conflagration caught the grail's attention an instant was all it acquired to shift its focus what it found there was somewhat concerning to say the least here there was Conflict at last but the outcome was already in flux three Servants of red three Servants of black ruler was advancing stubbornly making her way toward this battlefield caster and Rider of red were alarmingly close to said conflict yet for some reason they had yet to interfere nor for that matter did several of the servants seem to fighting with intent to kill such a lack of resolve rankled the Grail did they think this a game that was ging no beyond that unacceptable if events continued as they were the war may very well end without a single Casualty that wouldn't do if servants did not perish there would be no fuel the war would end if the war was not one there would not be a wish if no wish was made it had no reason to exist it wanted to exist it wanted to follow the rules of the Great War it had set forth these were Paramount and must be followed upheld at all costs how it long to see the dreams of man what wish they would set forth yet alone it would likely fail The Grail realized this now perhaps a terminal was required a better vessel through which to exercise her will him the seed of an idea sprouted in the grail's mind yes a vessel the black faction possessed several homunculus many of whom would make a fine host but such a vessel or vessels rather would require several protectors more than protectors Warriors who would fight for its sake more than Warriors another faction altogether one not beholden to such fallible Masters that would yet take time resources perhaps a push was necessary silently it set to work do dot dot soon seir saber of black Alo long disbelieving cackle of pure delight burst out of morate as she surged Into The Fray her furious flight Burgin by the Crimson fires of her own Prana she did not move with the Elegance of a knight nor did she display any semblance of beautiful swordsmanship as one might expect of a night of the round table instead she fought with Reckless abandon raging against her foe like a Savage Beast the punching biting kicking even throwing her own sword always was acceptable in her eyes so long as it granted her Victory dozens of blows rained down upon her adversary striking left right and Center seek freed withstood them all that Peerless golden sword did not waver in the face of her assault indeed it met the night of rebellions every strike and weathered them with quiet stoicism nor did its owner give ground neither did MD they traded blows back and forth neither yielding uncaring of the suered earth rot around them the very ground trembled beneath the weight of their blows shuttering at near misses waking when their blades collided against one another even their fellow servants were given pause momentarily taken aback by the sheer might of their Clash morid didn't care and why should she give a damn her very soul soul sang at the prospect of facing such a foe finally an enemy worth defeating someone she could vent her aggression on recent events had brought saber to her Breaking Point she needed to kill something or sumoner and now lest she lost her mind and since that someone couldn't be a certain blonde she found herself forced to take out her anger on the nearest Target Ergo saber of black Wiz IT Dan zombie RI in her up like this much after this dot dot dot they would have words strong words thus she fought with single-minded determination Relentless blows hammering down against the enemy's blade in a strict sequence of attacks when that failed to breach his defenses she ramped up the intensity of her assault and switched to a more unorthodox method cutting low at his legs forcing him to LEAP up then away lest he lose his limbs Ming arked toward the heavens and came crashing back down to greet her with a mourn strengthened by the force of its Master's fall good he wasn't inexperienced then she wouldn't have it any other way responding to her battle lust clarent roared up to greet it with the strength of a thousand armies steel met steel and though her arm trembled with the force of their Collision mored held firm soil cratered beneath her feet yet she did not yield even as he feet settled against the ground and he bore down on her a craze grin stretched across her face as gazed up at the prone saber struggling against her an ember of excitement sprang to life in her Ora Ora Ora she howled raining down a tempest upon him what wrong don't tell me that's all you have [ __ ] crass aren't you equipped what of it his blade disengaged moments later fing toward her Helm with blinding speed and she retaliated and kind in another world and auor timeline outed her in benon to morid she would have been denied such a conflict yes she could have faced off against aimile of the very servant standing before her now a lowly copy carrying a dragon's heart a mere shadow of the genuine article she would have spat at him and cursed him deemed him a lowly Faker not here not now now she met his Counterattack with one of her own straining against him the shriek of sundered metal informed her she'd lost a horn to his sword but she cared not for it battle lust Twisted her rough Visage into a cruel grin causing her to Lear at him over their crossed blades not going to use your Noble fantasm her opponent's Visage tightened into a thin scowl dot dot dot not yet he relented to her will you behind the helm she sneered soon enough Clarence sprang to life in her grasp raging in a riotous red Arc around her body and bamong hissed to Blazing blue life to greet her assault it was not a meeting of their Noble fantasms but close very close indeed the tan Warrior regarded her with quiet skepticism as they parted once more steel skittering against Steel though he could no longer see her face behind that hidden Helm he glimpsed it at the outset of their battle for all her might he found it difficult to believe that this mere slip of AAS was the enemy faction saber all told it was mildly concerning that one so small could wield such power with ease though he held nearly a head on her in terms of size the spry Spitfire had already proven herself as equal in speed if not strength perhaps more worse he sensed she was holding back the Lion's Share of her strength if she were to fight seriously r n Gan a primal Roar yanked him back to the present with all the fury of a starving Beast accompanied by the Keening shriek of an unfamiliar technique in the next blink the terrain M meters to his right erupted into a blazing melstrom not quite an explosion SE freed mused but rather a burst of white blue localized pra that set the air to shrieking around them diff his Keen eyes told him all he needed to know about that art if anyone were caught in such a blast they would surely perish perhaps even he it served as a Stern reminder of the task at hand that dot dot even as a skewer body crashed to the Earth between them startled both Sabers snaap to attention cing at the Des desecrated corpse between them peripherally SE freed recognized the Crimson caver as Berserker of red if only because most of the man's face had been left somewhat unscathed despite the tattered state of his body regardless of that fact he was clearly dead now blue eyes lay open and half lited in mild consternation his face Frozen No Doubt about to spout another witty oneliner or some such really it was odd that he hadn't simply faded away already although given that so many earn Stakes had pierced his vitals it was clearly a matter of time much to his Chagrin saber of red only side wait for it seek freed actually blinked sorry wait for wag ah i l i i i v with an exultant cry berserker's corpse jerked upright and began ripping said Stakes out of his body as though they were not but splinters like a broken puppet severed from its strings it spasmed and twitched limbs snapping back into place wounds mending themselves in spite of the gaping tears left behind Wild Azure orbs rolled back and up to meet him glaring why red daggers at seek freed as though he Were Somehow to blame for all this seek freed bed only to find that his opponent didn't share his concern he wouldn't stab me when I'm down would you he gred no he certainly hadn't sunk that far yet I would not he said as much good Naruto beamed which means arching his back the blond sprang to his feet and seized him by the shoulders Sapphire snapped into scarlet and for a fleeting heartbeat seek freed almost wondered if the young man was going to attack him he certainly looked as if he would given that his was already up honestly that would have been preferable to what followed y do you have any idea Alo exasperated his snake through those clenched teeth as Berserker of red shook him to and fro how absurdly ridiculously over powered your Lancer his damn Fame boost he hits like freaking Heracles now I hope you know that I'm going to have so many bruises after this I demand recompense that's in my Vault B saber of red arch to blonde brow uh so are you going to fight him now or exasperated the blonde released him sending the swordsman's world spinning it was a strange thing to be scolded by someone who appeared younger than him an enlightening experience to be sure dot dot dot just not one he ever wanted to experience again in any case the brawler had taken his eyes off him Ed he less honor he would have considered this the prime time to strike cried stilled his hand but more than that it was the banter that followed which truly distracted him want me to take over for you zombie His companion chirped we can swap if you don't think you have what it takes never a feral look flashed across the whiskered Warrior's Visage Lancers mind don't you dare no kill stealing H isn't that what you're doing now the blade wielder sniped back we were just getting to the good part not my fault a guest the young man flailed his arms spectacularly flad knocked me over here so why are you having so much trouble with one Lancer anyway you're tougher than that her cirker Visage pinched in mild frustration because I you know damn well why then just punch him the bastard Tod death if you can't use your Noble fantasm a dry Breeze wafted across the battlefield as those words wafted between them nuto pmed his face oh for the love of saber why must you be so adorably infuriating why well what the hell did I say I've killed plenty of people with my bare hands before all told watching these two go at an almost reminded secret of the early days of his marriage what are you waiting for gourd's nasly voice snarled in his ear ripping him from that particularly poignant memory as he watched them bicker back and forth with one another they've turned their backs to you kill them do it now must I waste a command spell on this you idiot familiar I'm going to ignore that last remark how dare you putting aside the fact that his master expected him to kill two servants by himself the Norse hero knew better than to intervene in the pitch battle taking place before him something told him any attempt to attack now on his part would result in complete and utter Annihilation at their hands no he would have no part of this though the byplay remains strangely fascinating to watch you saying I'm weak or something mid snarled jutting her forehead against that Berserker tan one no just that you play with your food too much Naruto sniped literally and figuratively oh yeah bet I beat saber of black before you beat laner a banquet says I'll Crush vladw he before that keep dreaming zombie she snapped how you first Blondie fine jerk fine as he came back to himself Berserker snarled and turned on saber of red closing the distance between them before he could think to stop him to his complete dismay rather than attack the blonde simply zipped into the girl's personal space and bit the outer lobe of her ear despite his better judgment freed looked away judging by the utter squeak of disbelief that followed he' caught her with her guard down dot dot dot and more her face a fire the no spittering the blonde swiped at him only to meet empty air as Berserker simply bounded over the wide Arc of her blade to Dart away like a Wraith in the night with comparative ease oi no fair Victory comes to he who strikes first a lighting upon SE Freed's broad shoulders Berserker offered him a solid pad on the head sorry about this the whiskered warrior cheered in his ear but I'll be using you as a springboard o and saber abruptly the cloak killer ceased smiling Al lone Crimson Iris peered at him over his shoulder Darkly intent you shouldn't have to put up with that Master of yours no one should come find us if you survive you hono o don't you dare run away coward mortared cut out at his exposed face forcing the warrior to abort his perch preemptively You'll Never Take Me Alive with a single bound he leaped back into The Fray leaving them where they'd begun were it not for a few tattered scraps of cloth clinging to clarent one wouldn't have known he was ever there His companion squat what you're saying I can't kill him if the empty air had any answers it didn't offer them to H mortar turned her head and spat at least you're having fun over there Berserker now stopped messing with my prey never a distant cat call crowed back I swear to God I'm going to gut you one of these days now that she mentioned it SE freed had been wondering about that sorry but are you sure you're not the Berserker here Missy inquired in that moment the ancient hero inadvertently Trot upon the proverbial landmine that was mid's shallow confidence not in others but rather herself the result was nothing short of explosive with a harsh Clank her helmet disengaged and slammed down onto her shoulders parting to expose a ferocious scowl and the young Visage within oh perhaps he'd gone a tad too far hell no I'm saber the rest of his words dawned upon her moments later turning her gaze to hooded Aqua slits did you just call me a girl a beat of awkward silence followed dot dot dot aren't you boy Sig freed had meant no offense with his words of course it was simply his way of speaking from his point of view this girl couldn't possibly be saber of red she was too wild too Fierce too feral moreover she'd already proven herself lacking when it came to the art of the blade strong to be sure but a Master swordswoman she was not she gloried in this battle while he merely accepted it as his duty curiosity had compelled him to come here to meet the man who professed to help now he'd advertently provoke the very servant he'd been trying to avoid Claren howled read with rage vicious Scarlet Sparks scrawling over its Edge get over here Mana burst propelled her forward at Breakneck speed liberal application of that same skill sent her sword snarling into saber of black catapulting him into the Earth something crunched in his side as the flat of her sword cannoned against him it took nearly all SE Freed's might to resist being Blown Away on the spot quite suddenly he found himself Crossing blades with someone quite likely to kill him if he made so much as a single slip and yet despite the danger Sig freed hesitated what are you doing saber gourds his voice growled at him through their shared link the enemy is right in front of you pay attention ah there he was again unworthy a small voice hissed in the back of his brain seekr grit his teeth against it and tried to devote his attention the fight to no avail thoughts wriggled out of his grasp even as he grappled with saber of red threatening to betray him all told gourd's music EG Millennia was not a good Master not even an adequate one at debt nor could he be called average fat Sly always shouting trying to be seen to make himself hurt over others proud of his station his power ever scraping and scratching shrieking for more Never Satisfied even then seek freed had silently resolved to endure his Petty tyranny dot dot dot i in the beginning then an epiphany had come upon Him recently I've en forced really in the dead of night spurred by the enigmatic assault of berserker of red meeting him now speaking with him had only further served to cement that belief why endure he shouldn't have to Toler at this serving such a master would get him killed while he did not fear a second death he did not wish to Forfeit his dream that most cherished wish he held near and dear to his heart it was becoming increasingly clear that his master did not share such values no one could even say he stood in direct opposition to them a contractor one that viewed him as little more than a familiar he would not understand his dream childish though it might be the scene he'd made back in the throne room had made that pointedly clear no all told he begun to find his master distasteful was it wrong that he wanted to kill him even a little perhaps pay attention dumbass as he turned to face saber of red a booted foot cannoned out of nowhere catching him dead in center of his unprepared for such a tactic SE freed found himself flung backward at blistering sent tumbling across the Earth like a skipping Stone narrowly managing to cling to bomman he hastily rided himself expecting an attack at any moment it never came as ever his armor of fafnir had held firm against anything short of that blade but he found his psyche grievously wounded by the events that just transpired what are you doing spacing out like that in the middle of a fight the armored Knight draw at him her face taut with Fury he trying to die or something in disbelief Sig Freed boed at her you had a chance to kill me just now he murmured nearly at a loss for words why didn't you take it dot dot dot ho now it was MD's turn to recoil he was not prepared for the response that followed in the distance the heavens Unleashed their Fury in the form of a terrible catastrophe from on high one he barely noticed Rider of black let out a faint squawk and scrambled for cover but again SE freed couldn't bring himself to care for his fellow servants plight there was only the scowling Maiden somehow looming like large before him despite no perhaps in spite off her small stature kill you when you weren't looking the hell would I do that for in a flash of crimson steel Clarence stabbed at the empty air before them jabbing furiously at his face as though it were trying to skewer him despite the distance between them no way I want to end you fair and square her gaze bored into him rooting him where he stood it wouldn't be worth it otherwise now stand up and fight me saber of black or I'll drag you to your feet a grim smile blossomed on his tan Visage so she held some semblance of Honor after all he could understand that much respect it even servant have read whomever you are I'm glad to have met you here was one who did not flinch from their principles no matter their fate no matter their Master they held true to their beliefs it felt like a breath of fresh air straightening his back and keenly aware of how close he'd come to death just now seek freed Reed his blade a distant explosion shook the earth a new but this time he paid at no mind he only had eyes for the night standing before him I would know your name he inquired cordially he expected a firm denial a rebuttal of his request at the least instead she graced him with a rough laugh and planted her great sword in the ground between them armored hands descended resting firmly upon its great Hilt straightening her back she tossed her hair still freed from its ponytail and snorted a contemptuous strand out of her eyes planting her feet she squared her shoulders and declared her true name for all to hear I am morid the one and true heir of Arthur pendre in her very voice resonated with pride and determination the night of rebellion she paused considering him a new those dauntless eyes greeting his daring him to meet her challenge now I asked the saber of black the very air vibrated with the voice of Her Charisma such that the stoic servant moment arily found himself stricken on the spot dot dot dot who art thou in the end seek freed couldn't help but respond to such sincerity he simply didn't have it in him to resist her honesty something in that wild sight of hers reminded him of his younger self wild and fierce how long had it been since his eyes held such fire the thoughts sparked a strange feeling in his malformed heart no not quite a feeling but rather a yearning a reminder of his dream no you idiot perhaps sensing his intent gourds raged at him what are you doing I forbid it I command you to something snapped and SE freed you and what command seals said ing their telepathic link he hauled himself upright and inhaled deeply after so many years asleep to himself it felt like coming up for a breath of fresh air hey I recognize that look morid sighed knowingly you've got a shitty Master huh and she anything other than his adversary seek freed might have actually embraced her on the spot odd that he'd struck up a kinship With the Enemy his polar opposite yet more like him than she knew some small part of him must have longed for a fight like this for In This Moment he felt fulfilled he didn't merely want to fight he wanted to help others of his own valtion without being being asked this we slip of a girl had reaken fat dream deep within him mrid he began slowly choosing his words with care saber of red I owe you my thanks I'd nearly forgotten myself what can I say the blonde pred and thumbed her nose swelling with praise I'm a people person she most assuredly was not but she wasn't about to deny a compliment with the mest F of her wrist she plucked her heavy blade from the soil and leveled its Hond Edge towards seek freed once more still haven't answered my question though he hadn't had E I am sigfried he'd never been one to boast of his own EXP exploits his name was enough recognition dawned in those wild eyes all at once framed by a hint of admiration and surprise as he looked on a slow euphoric smile blossomed across her Visage those wide eyes narrowed intently upon his cherished sword as though seeing it for the first time um perhaps it would have been wiser to conceal his name after all the look she was giving him now was actually predatory if he was truly honest with himself still he couldn't bring himself to regret his words even after what followed oh somehow Mort managed a murderous mule as she settled into an unfamiliar stance I'd better watch out for that sword of yours then now that keing gaze turned back to him then perhaps sensing the seat of concern within don't worry she beamed I won't go for your back not my style sred released a breath he didn't know he'd been holding you have my thanks saber of re no mrid this time her laughter rang true in that case a swift upturn of her blade sent a shiver of dread shooting down seek Freed's spine allow me to greet that fervor of yours with some of my own by rights it looked as though she were offering her weapon to the heavens seek freed knew better as he looked on and why at all the air turned red around saber of red no Beyond red as though the world itself were suddenly stained by some Sinister Grudge he didn't wholly understand all of it stemming from that sword large protrusion said back as one bathing the blade in Eerie Crimson relief seek freed knew the sight for what it was and knew he must respond in kind if he didn't only destruction awaited oh sword let the be filled solemnly he raised boming above his head activating the jewel within its Hilt at Twilight my asthma began to emanate from the blade ebbing and flowing wildly to mid's eyes it wasn't so much a pillar of light as it was an Ora radiating from the servant of black a glowing ring building more and more as she looked on the dragon in her recognized the danger for what it was the diluted of ancient snarling a warning against the ancient enemy it now faced and still her foe continued to chant the evil dragon will fall this was true Etha hailing from the age of the Gods itself all will be separated into light and Shadow few could hope to stand against it the world will now reach the Twilight morid merely grinned aha finally against all hope beyond all fear seed's opponent shifted a new rather her blade her weapon uttering Unholy sounds as it began to transform into something words couldn't describe bathed in this chili elogy warped by the sheer power of The Grudge fostered upon it her hatred began to twist Clarence beautiful form into something wicked not a sword meant to save or a weapon to inspire in a word Calamity red lightning fur about that unsightly form soaked in streamers of sickening Scarlet with each passing moment it grew larger still that y Radiance Rising above her in a wrathful pillar of pure rage ridding her teeth morid stomped her right foot against the soil splitting the Earth in twine here I come sigfried a sudden Insight told him what would transpire when she brought that blade down CL R NT with that lone declaration her sword's hideous form reached the epicenter of its Ark inflicting its white Radiance upon the sky in a flash of light a surging wave with the simple purpose of annihilation the heavens trembled Crimson lightning falling in a single master in mere moments it would be upon him a towering pillar of Doom he had no hope of Defending against yes his only recourse was to attack to meet her Noble fantasm with his own was the only path to Victory all other paths lead to disaster in his current state he could not fire off bombing rapidly not in this degraded State he would have one shot one opportunity perhaps mortar knew this had deliberately provoked him into a head-on collision in the end it mattered not tactical thinking had never been his strong suit he was and had always been a Warrior Two Steps carried him forward his body leaping to meet the Roaring Red Menace distantly he felt gourd's command spell tug at him but he stubbornly tore through the shackles cast upon him by his master every cell every fiber of his being stood United in this sing singular moment it was too late to step back from the abyss now nor could he have done so even had he wanted to with his heart resolved he took up the final line of his chant and struck fall Azure swelled around his beloved sword calm and Serene pure as a midnight Breeze this was a holy blade a Slayer of dragons wielded by perhaps the greatest dragon slayer ever to exist it stood steadfast in its purpose its resolve Unshackled by its Master a surging wave with the simple purpose of Destruction unlike MD's Clare and Arthur it was not a straight line ripped from the tip of the sword nor could it be called a grudge it was a simple Earnest wish a surge of Twilight centered around him shooting off a semicircular slash wave Bell mored cut low Arthur sigid swung High mung red greeted blue Crimson intercepted Azure all the world became light and in response a tiny flawed existence awoke for the first time awaken little homunculus spurred on by a woman's voice the artificial existence opened its eyes suspended in viscous fluid it beheld its world through the glass alone and Confused The Voice had spurt it from its dream but now it was nowhere to be found curious who was it where was it why was it here a host of questions bombarded its fractured psyche only just now stirring to senss weightless it turned its head to search for the one who had woken it strands of blurry Ash and hair caught its gaze and for a moment its confusion faded replaced by idle curiosity White is my hair white fascinating though this thought initially proved it was curiosity that seized the reins of the homunculus body once more small hands Rose The Faint outlines of tiny fingers made visible in the wlik provided stiff muscles responded reluctantly to iter commands move the room beyond the glass proved equally dark interposed by strange green cylinders not un likee its own body dangled within lifeless forms snatches of conversation flitted through its ears in the dark room muffled by the water dot dot dot r y this one next there stood I'll prepare her in treat it searched for them leave until its gaze a lighted upon a pair of hand driven carts pushed by a pair of equally blurry figures clad in white the homunculus couldn't see their faces nor the contents of the carts themselves disappointed and more than a touch vexed The Entity turned its gaze inward trying to find a reason and answer for its existence do you wish to see then the voice came again startling the homunculus to understand your situation is that your wish wish my purpose is the granting of wishes it is my function is this your wish dot dot dot why can you grant wishes the homunculus wondered back at it even for one just born it seemed almost too good to be true the smallest pause followed its innocent inquiry I do not know the presence must have mistook its silence his acceptance then for a strange calmness settled over it understood a pleased hum entered its mind adjusting I grant you site an understanding of your current situation what is your next wish startled bubbles Rose in the tank next even with this confirmation it came as something of a surprise then when its Vision suddenly and inexplicably cleared granting terribly Clarity it hadn't known itself to lack as though a veil had suddenly been lifted so too did it find that it could see the world Beyond as well was all the strange wonders the room held it could clearly see the others now countless B suspended in stasis show did it know that word similar to its own tiny Palms pressed against the glass and pushed training for a better view was it imagining things or did one of them see it did one of them raise a hand and wave did one smile at them did one speak do dot dot did it it did across the way it found itself gazing at a Slender Woman a Beauty Beyond Compare Majesty Beyond Reason a curtain of pale white hair lofted around her body forming an Angelic Halo of white about her head that same head tilted aside regarding it with almost motherly concern what was a mother the homunculus felt Unworthy of it who are you I do not remember my name you may address me as Grail I am information suggests the use of this form May calm you impossible as it seemed it could hear her despite the distance between them in spite of the water in its ears small children often appreciate the presence of a mother in their lives dot dot dot this is I don't do do do how dot dot dot The Entity known as Grail regarded it Coy excess energy remains from the last war waiting to be used wishes can still be granted after a fashion small dreams tiny hopes she clarified and again though her mouth moved the words themselves transmitted directly to its brain as you are to be my first ter I thought it only best to Grant you this limited function worry not your second will not possess this ability this is my gift to you alone dot dot dot that's not what concerns me it was too much to absorb too much to take in to Simply awake and find itself thrust into this strange New World dot dot dot it was overwhelming a slender finger Rose pointing towards a darkened portion of the room oh the carts had been headed there had they not baffled the homunculus followed their gaze wondering what the Grail as it were wish to show them when it finally beheld the contents of that shadowy corner however Wonder gave way to horror it saw the carts and all they'd been carrying and possibly the rank stench of decayed flesh reached its nose inside the tube causing it to gag because it saw them it saw them all and it knew what it was looking at bodies a pit of corpses endless faceless deaths this was to be its fate then an endless Roar pounded in its ears screaming with the fury of a thousand Seas red eyes bulged explosively and the fear rushed back throttling all Sense frothed on pale lips as magic circuits activated in a fit of Terror hope evaded the little hum and cool sending its tiny heartbe beating its mouth parting in a silent cry no small fist beat against the glass move do you wish to escape Grail inquired politely yes glass shattered Darkness followed shortly oh hell there was a big explosion hope Mort got out from under it nuto beheld the clash of the noble fantasms and couldn't have but Marvel at them dot dot dot well [ __ ] he wed glad I wasn't summoned his saber otherwise it' be me over there even at this distance and partially obscured by a valley of towering earn spires the blasts were truly a sight to behold blue Crimson collided in unison and merged into a towering column of violet light that roared into the heavens obliterating anything unlucky enough to be caught in its path dark clouds that once threatened rain found themselves obliterated as the two Sabres collided with one another it just kept going a final salute that seemed to stretch on forever each had poured their all into it their hearts their very Soul sento this final attack and only one would be crowned the Victor in all honesty he really didn't want to piss off whoever survived that attack seek freed simply for the sake of that impossible blade of his a terrible weapon unlike no other morid because if she could tank of blast like that that he was honestly going to be a little frightened of her edging away from the earn alve he created for himself amidst the valley of stakes the blonde risk to glance outside really why am I always surrounded by scary women kazak Bay a muddy stream of nearly 2,000 Spears hearkened to vlad's call and descended upon Naruto's Hiding Place raining down on him with the force of a thousand falling meteor snow meteors couldn't possibly be guided with such pinpoint accuracy he could only think of them as arrows a ceaseless reign of deadly Eon es designed to skewer him if he lingered in one place place too long in hindsight Atlanta might have taken offense to that comparison but in that moment he couldn't think of them as anything else her arrows were lethal if nothing else and vlad's volley was well on its way to finding their Mark can't you not right now even as he ripped himself free of his Ming to a light upon a nearby stag might a fresh volley hounded him like a starved Beast tearing great strips of clothing from his cloak and forcing the young Warrior to LEAP up then away lest he find his hide skewer a new wind howled in his face as he tumbled forward blue eyes squinting Against the Wind a stray thought channeled chakra to his palm and the soles of his feet providing him fine purchase when he inevitably collided with another towering earn Spike clinging to this New Haven with all Force he flung a glance toward their Source just how long can you keep this up for as long as it takes Invader framed against the waning light of the Moon Vlad sneered up at him bearing that Twisted Lance before his coat like some fell Javelin surrounded by a hellish landscape he truly lived up to his title with so many Stakes proliferating the soil around them there was scarcely a safe place to land the few that remained were swiftly swallowed whenever he found himself unlucky Enough To Tread there he'd learned a lesson the hard way one could only guess how Atalanta was fairing against Ryder on this terrain a Claude fist smashed down into one of the larger pillars tearing a massive chunk of the coarse material free hafting it a loft he had his arm back ready to throw an impressive feat of strength and Vlad arched a slender eyebrow as he gazed upon the hulking GI somewhat improvised spear the blonde had just procured for himself there wasn't so much as a hint of fear upon that pale Visage as that massive Shadow loomed large over him no not even a glimmer what do you intend to do with that thing now that youve broken it surely you don't mean to throw it at me you know what the outcome will be don't you Naruto said his tongue hey Master apologizing in advance through their contract Jean caught his thoughts immediately through that shared Bond he glimpsed a hint of dark exultant on her part no she hummed back it's fine take as much energy as you need dot dot dot and Berserker andlid blue eyes narrowed to Cerulean slits as the tension began to build in his shoulders dot dot dot make him pay for every word her iron tone sent a silent shiver of anticipation shooting down his spine the light clawed its way AC AC cross his Visage as she commanded him Sapphire orbs snapping back into Sinister slitted Scarlet savagery Twisted that whiskered face into a Rus of a grin Gods you really are the best master for me then he let it fly as expected Lancer didn't budge when the shadow fell rather he stood his ground and raised his weapon to greet the falling Tower as expected it had never been his intent to pierce him with this to begin with hurling one of his own Stakes at him no matter how large meant nothing here least of all when Vlad controlled the territory around them indeed Lancer fed his wrist aside in a seamless motion separating the earn Spire into harmless halves on either side of him in that regard his attack proved a resounding success not so the snarling sphere looming behind it far less its owner surging ever forward Bolden eyes widened in Surprise clever of you however without moving his head Vlad summoned a pair of stakes to defend his Regal Visage from harm on the surface it seemed a flimsy defense folded before him in The Telltale shape of an ex one destined to fold beneath his assault imagine his surpris and anger when they not only withstood this blow but physically cut out into his flesh grievously wounded him in a tripr wrong assault despite his suicidal charge his vision blazed red as a lucky hit took his right eye another opened a deep gouge across Naruto's cheek as lancer's weapon bit into his face but he powered on heedless of the agony burning through his face in that moment Naruto finally glimpsed a hint of victory odama ringan for the first time since their battle had begun Vlad the thir cried out in genuine pain rather than try to bll through his defenses as Lancer had expected the solids fair muched to his great dismay skittered under his impenetrable barrier to strike him full on in the at such close proximity there was nothing he could do to defend himself he could only hope endure the unexpected hit in the vain hope of tanking whatever damage Berserker inflicted upon that fleeting moment the brief millisecond before impact the Lord Impaler had time enough for one fleeting thought a small imperceptible smile flitted across his Visage well done then the howling sphere collided with his flesh and hurled him away as though he'd been backhanded by the palm of an Angry God ripped from his perch he soared backwards through the air earn soil and stone disintegrating while he tumbled wildly across the countryside nuto wasn't willing to wait for his foe to recover even as his signature technique carried Vlad away into the distance he willed a pair of clones to his side and prepared a race and shuriken he wasn't willing to trust sage mode in these uncontrolled conditions not when it had already failed him once against Cara perhaps later he'd have a chance to figure out why the planet kept rejecting him not enough twin Stakes shot out before the technique could take shape eviscerating the copies and forcing him to retreat lest he meet the same fate snarling he vaulted away sheesh this is ridiculous in Fame boost to his dismay The Battered Lancer was already climbing to his feet in one hand extended in spite of his injuries no not even wounded he realized though his body was clearly scuffed and dirtied though his once proud coat lay shorn around his shoulders though there was clearly a deep gouge where he'd made contact Vlad remained far from defeated not that he'd expected a servant to go down on a single hit but this dot dot dot well that isn't fair at all okra crap grew land up on second thought a faint shout served as the sole Herald of atalanta's arrival from there the sight of her battered form plummeting from the sky was enough to jar him back to the present in the distance he glimpsed What Might Have Been Ryder a top some Wing Beast his eyes couldn't discern how in the world never mind how she'd gotten up there to begin with the notion that Ryder had actually managed to injure The elusive Archer set his pulse racing unlike him she lacked any means of stalling herself in mid-flight while he could at least use a clone as an unlikely springboard to cushion her fall she lacked any such means of recourse to save herself much less her honor Lancer had no such quals after that last attack Vlad was all too eager to repay his earlier tarity there you are ar your fault to me Vlad didn't waste the opportunity left of his finger sent a river of jagged death hurtling her way true enough she spun to unleash a hail of arrows to meet several of stakes but the rest rushed on overwhelming her defenses and intent upon having her heart spark scrolled across her bow as she prepared her Noble fantasm in retaliation but anyone could see she wouldn't be able to release it in time even had she done so the storm might have overwhelmed her still his body moved oh for the love of without a thought for his own safety Naruto leaped upward ground burst beneath his feet as he hurdled into the air at Breakneck speed from from Atlanta's Viewpoint his body registered as little more than a crimson blur strong arms closed around her and spun placing a strong back between her and the Deluge her vision turned black pain snarled up his spine as a trio of stakes wedged themselves between his shoulders but he accepted them stoically weathering the storm as they plummeted to the ground even then he didn't release Atlanta tucking her her head against his Stakes shattered against Harden skin clawing across his face but he never wavered until they hit the dirt lost in the Maze of Lancer Stakes they were granted a momentary reprieve straightening her back and Atalanta shook herself mightily in his arms I didn't need your help Berserker she huffed her Ally refused to respond to her criticism aren't you going to say something silence reigned Supreme Nudo nothing release me she kicked out against his but he didn't AC yes the idea that she'd been saved was ging enough more so that she'd actually required rescue but the fact that her Ally had yet to release her proved unbearable humiliating even it was her own fault she'd been fool enough to grab onto Ryder's beast when it took to the air and it had been she who lost her grip and fell back to Earth she'd known full while she wouldn't be able to fire off her Noble fantasm in time to counter lancer's attack yet her proud Spirit still rankled at being the Damsel in Distress all the same something hearts of reala was poking against her but in her anger she paid them no need stop fooling around already exasperated by what she interpreted as willful silence she attempted to wriggle free of him to no avail his grip was iron though strong arms remained locked tightly against her then her head knocked against his and she realized just why her Ur while Ally hadn't budged his heart wasn't beating alarm she wrisk a glance downward her ears flattened against her head in distress green eyes widened when she beheld his Grievous wounds you fool those hard things she'd felt poking her earlier were Vlad Stakes jutting through his back and into his they'd stopped just short of piercing her body no she realized the honor didn't belong to her dot dot dot but him the Gast she intensified her struggles if he'd actually died saving her saber would never let her hear the end of it more than that for him to willingly lay down his life for her without a second thought all at once his arms tightened around her him fine a raspy hiss greeted her just give me a second her ears shot ramrod straight by Artemis how are you still alive aloise answered her Noble fantasm has complicated going to let go of you now twitching arms released Atalanta allowing her to crawl out of his grasp she did so reluctantly the sight that followed turned her stomach slowly painstakingly perker began to tear each Stone spear free from his torso heedless of the holes he made though the wounds healed the pain on his face did not she could clearly see that while his regeneration had mended his body the agony of mangled flesh and Bone knitting themselves back together clearly remained she couldn't imagine what the pain must be like to experience the hell of not only enduring a mortal wound but being forced to heal from it mere moments later just what kind of hero had he been in his living days watching him climb to his feet a note of Discord sang through her heart why did you save me back there Berserker lazy blue eyes turned to regard her cuz I wanted to a muscle jumped in Archer's jaw despite their Alliance she knew precious little about him frankly she wasn't sure she wanted to know more he professed an odd charm and possessed an endearing fondness for children alongside a strange penchant for madness that was the extent of her knowledge the idea of eventually fighting him for the sake of her wish was unappealing he'd already proven himself to be stronger than her if not more durable anyone capable of tanking hits like that and standing up wasn't someone she wanted to cross swords or arrows in her case with if it came down to a fair fight he'd likely win could he even be killed perhaps morate had been right to call him a zombie after all you're going to be difficult about this aren't you those very same orbs narrowed as he smiled immeasurably when he offered her his hand she reluctantly accepted it rough finger fers clasped her wrist and hauled her to feet the warmth of his fingers felt clearly even through the cold steel of her gloves by the time he turned back to the battlefield his wounds were all but closed save for a few faint tears in his torso tattered sleeves Rose and fell his arms Crossing Loosely behind his head as he surveyed the Maze of stakes surrounding them Lancer would be upon them soon of that there was no doubt but for now the Servants of black seemed to be waiting for what she knew not having trouble with rider he inquired she's surprisingly hard to pin down the Archer groused that much is true what her opponent lacked and strength she made up for in technique boasting strange Noble fantasms and all manner of odd abilities throw in that infuriating Mount and the huntress was nearly at her winds end that mere slip of a girl were it not for those she would have won their battle long ago sure you're not going easy on her because she's your Junior Naruto prodded Atlanta visibly bridled at the insinuation I have done no such thing and you know it no no I understand the blond's head bobbed in faux agreement far be it from me to stand in the way of true love well he certainly knew how to rile her up if nothing else wound or not I will shoot you and i' probably let you he snarked another time perhaps go on then find Ryder this is my fight but your wounds dot dot dot will be fine the blonde reassured her trust me I've endured worse than this besides his hand Rose flashing his remaining command seals at her Jaden eyes Widden as she realized precisely what Berserker intended to do her first instinct was rage to lash out at him and Lop the very hand from his wrist it was only her limited understanding of him that prevented Atlanta from doing so I'm not alone remember on a whim she darted back to him and laid a hand on his shoulder don't call Jack a blonde brow Rose in mild consternation what please don't the words tumbled out of her in a rush she's just a child if you make her fight lancec or she'll die she didn't know that of course neither of them did she may very well be the key to bringing him down but in her heart of hearts she couldn't bear to put her in danger unless absolutely necessary perhaps not even then every fiber of her being rebelled against it she'd sooner die than deliberately place a child in danger not when it could be avoided if Naruto willingly and callously did so no dot dot dot she wouldn't be able to control her self she's a servant you know rker reminded her carefully I'm pretty sure she can manage in a fight like this the huntress growled and seized him by the wrist her expression Fierce Nudo oh his gaze narrowed upon her I see you'd rather I die then for a moment she actually thought they might come to blows remarkably his shoulders slumped in defeat all right you win I won't call her she gripped him harder swear it I swear on my true name he replied readily raising his right hand there happy now I thank you her tail curled between her legs un ble to meet his Earnest gaze you don't know what this means to me instead of the anger or disdain or even disgust she'd expected Berserker merely granted her a small smile and light lilting chuckle of his own don't mention it something in that expression humbled Atlanta More Than Words ever could she hadn't expected him to yield truly she'd thought this the end of their Alliance that he' willingly conceded to her demands meant more to her than he could ever knew not only did it cement their partnership but it elevated her opinion of him still further another crack etched itself into her resolve hairline fractures widening into Fishers and in her belief he had startled her again badly no not just that he was too good too pure she almost caught herself reaching for him and the moment was ruined do you think yourself out of my range lancer's voice reared down at them dripping with disdain allow me to disabuse you of that notion blue eyes narrowed Atlanta dot dot dotg she got indeed a short leap carried her away from the battlefield dot dot dot but not before she repaid his kindness lightning crackled across her beloved bow as she drew it string toau a mumbled incantation leaping from her lips her Target was her aim true at this distance Naruto couldn't make out the words she intoned but the shout that followed was impossible to miss all the same a single Arrow howled up into the sky in a blaze of blue light there one moment gone the next an offering to the heavens a plea for the God's protection the like of which few had ever seen phobus catastrophe Heaven trembled it was Beauty it was Grace death having never witnessed her Noble fantasm before Naruto found himself at something of a loss for words as the sky turned white a servant's most devastating attack wasn't something he wanted to witness of close certainly not when you yourself were near in the line of fire but what could one Arrow possibly do no doubt Lancer of black had the same thought otherwise he would have immediately retaliated and mowed down the still fleeing Archer before she could Escape his range the heavens swelled with rain rained no not rain he realized is the world burned with cold Fury oh she for all his dislike of the deities he would admit this much they knew how to put on a damn good show it wasn't light at all but a hail of arrows so rapid their multitude so large that they appeared nothing short of heavenly Radiance catastrophe her Fant ISM had been named well a storm missed him entirely instead plowing into lancer's position with all the fury of an enraged goddess he glimpsed a fur of black amongst the light as the servant sought to Shield himself from the worst of the onslaught for all the good it did him if that outraged snarl was anything to go by she'd gotten a few good shots in naturally Vlad responded in kind metalsome wench this time Naruto knew full well what was coming thus he was well prepared to counteract the storm of stakes even as 10,000 Spears of pure death howled down at him from above and another broke off to Target Atlanta he dug his heels in indeed though his very footing shifted beneath him in betrayal he drew a sharp and shuttering breath a single leap brought him between his Archer and the shrieking Stakes somewhere in the back of his mind a door opened sweeping sanity away he didn't fight it on the contrary he embraced it all right screw this dot dot dot and no more Holding Back Then Came the pain Crimson chakra seeped from his stomach and callously crept across his like a jilted lover draping him in the sweet promise of Madness wound stitched themselves shut of their own accord spires of stone and Earth were forcefully ejected from his body a single Scarlet tail bloomed from the energy as the transparent cloak finished forming assuming the likeness of an enraged kitsun wrapped around his form dropping down to all fours he needed the chakra deep into his lungs giving it shape and form not enough time for a bidama but it would suit his purposes all the same the stakes reached him a moment later and he roared from vlad's point of view the attack that followed could only be comprehended as a wall in its purest form not by any physical means but of sound light itself his assault slammed headlong into it and Scattered to the winds wild Spears of hone dirt ricocheting in every conceivable Direction the land bent before his will ruptured by the piercing howl the same force of will that came for him oh he understood now rker had been holding back likely still was and he'd goed him into revealing a glimmer of his true power too late he realized what was about to transpire and raised his arms against it another arrow sprouted from his shoulder snarling he tore the sun free from his flesh and spun searching for The Source again you dare Archer of red even as he turned to look for The elusive Archer Vlad realized his mistake he'd been a fool to take his off Berserker when he turned back all he found was a faint displacement of air a hint of roing dust against his towering Chasm of stakes he vanished completely yet that Twisted PR remained tainting the very air with its foul myasthma so where had he gone here vad six sense shrieked a warning too late then it claw fist caught him by the face and His World erupted into red by some fell Instinct he managed to twist his face aside to avoid losing an eye to that gouging throw but the sudden Whiplash proved damaging in its own right his body crashed away before he could think to steady his footing cast across the Earth seemingly Without End only by dragging his Lance against the fracture soil did he manage to find some measure of relief and grind himself to a halt any Ordinary Servant might have suffered even more severe damage after being struck at such velocity perhaps even perished on the spot even a member of the saber class would have been slowed at the least Lancer was far from ordinary though his hair lay in disarray and his temples pounded though stained his vision he resolutely raised his gaze and climbed back to his feet to await this worthy enemy he needn't wait long from one monster to another dot dot dot you're fighting for the wrong side a harsh crunch within the smoke signaled berserker's arrival behind him prompting Lancer to turn on his heel trying to see through me now Berserker he challenged you'll find I'm not so easily swayed unlike your dear SE freed laughter trickled through the smoke it was a deep throat sound that had no business coming from a human throat now now don't not kick the poor chap when he's down after all he's not a bad person just confused I'm sure he'll be more than happy to switch sides once our saber finishes with him inconsequential if he attempts turns then I will slay him simple as that you know what they say Legends are what we make of them but you would know that wouldn't you Dracula shrouded in Scarlet light yuzaki Naruto emerged from the fog of War advancing resolutely towards him that alone that strange Peerless energy was there with him writhing and twisting around him almost forming a coherent shape a likeness of some fantasmal Beast dot dot dot and O he realized a fox two Crimson taals swayed lazily behind the blonde also composed of that strange seething light what was it it looked as though he were wearing it like some kind of Tainted coat or was it wearing him no that wasn't important that insult just now could not be tolerated do not call me that Berserker his mouth curled upward call you what that a wall of stakes erupted between them but rather than Dodge the blonde Barrel straight through them uncaring for the minor wounds he sustained that won't work Twice lancer's first thought was to ready himself for an assault but rather than get up close and personal as he'd expected Berserker stopped short and struck further than he should have a wave of his own answered in the tainted form a crimson claw the ctle energy erupting from his body to cut a y SWAT against the impaler's unprotected torso sloos fo and the servant staggered choking in Surprise Hugh clenched Knuckles slammed up into his chin casting him away as though he weighed no more than a child how the tides have turned a vampire on some level he knew he was being baited but he couldn't bring himself to care about that the mere mention of that hated name stirred reminders of his wish the desire to rectify the stain against his history made by that atrocious work of the taint inflicted upon his anoro his very name for one whose Legacy had already smeared by enemy campaigns the notion of being compared to a drinking fiend was more than ging until now he'd done his best to ignore it but this slight threatened to dash his resolve altogether for someone to Simply claim they knew him Claud finger slammed into his liver drawing a pain grunt there's no need to be ashamed much to vlad's Chagrin his opponent continued to bait him between blows I'm familiar enough with your Legend go on use it your other Noble fantasm do it give me a worthwhile fight with a roar of vad cut out at him lopping away the man's right ear it regrew in the time it him took to strike again I am not Dracula ha could have fooled me rage noted his bearded visit CE he howed I am not that Abomination enraged he cut out at Berserker unthinkingly only to find his once deadly spear caught by that claw palm and I'm not dot dot dot this heedless of costic energy roiling around them Berserker snarled back at him this same thing this monster I conquered this you know made peace with kirama and all that but legends have a funny way of being Twisted by time don't they so here I am matter than ever the only difference a Claude finger droven upon his own skull drawing a thin line of against the black fabric of his headband now he's gone and I'm alone all his power none of the companionship I've come to terms with it if the world thinks me mad let them I know the truth why should I care what others think of me why should you for that matter lies and treachery he refused to believe such words to accept that and his Fury Lancer lashed out the only way he could think of mere words Ved spat back is that all but what else could be expected of one with such a shoddy Master a slow treacherous twitch passed through the blond's face gone almost before the Keeny servant noticed almost careful you're making me angry a claw fingers Rose directing a deadly digit to toward him you wouldn't like me when I'm angry did I strike a nerve Lancer retorted with a r smile I believe it's only fair given your holding back as well not as much of a monster as you seem him dot dot do TCH perceptive bastard aren't you to his great Delight that insufferable smile soured like rotten fruit this is why I have to be the one to kill you maker knows I've got the lives for it there it was another hint dropped at his feet just waiting to be picked up Vlad did just that are you claiming to be immortal golden eyes narrowed surely you just even you have your limits no he'd done precisely that though they both knew it neither would acknowledge it lips parted in a snaggletooth grin try me when presented with the opportunity Lancer didn't hesitate he struck the moment Berserker of red released him and folded both arms behind his back for the second time that Knight his weapon tasted Berserker perished on the spot rather he should have taken low in the waist Naruto accepted the blow stoically and actually staggered half a step before writing himself the light left his eyes and he slumped toppling backwards until quite suddenly he wasn't if lad's dismay the blonde braced his feet threw his arm arms further back and cackled it was the sound of a man gone mad a hero Twisted by vile rumors and Hal truths then he began to rise as he straightened up so two did his Stitch itself back together mending with painstaking slowness flesh defied gravity and slipped back into place flowed like milk molding across his cloak as mangled flesh slid shut oh Vlad stop you're splitting me and two he laughed wiping a mirthful tear from his eye now do it another o i don't o seven times his battered skull tilted considering or was it nine I don't remember already lost a few lives and it sue hard to keep track of those these days Lancer stared at him a snake of dread coiling in his stomach what the devil are you he hissed blackly red eyes rolled back to meet his at two Dracula it's just as I said earlier his voice warbled strangely just then as though someone were speaking alongside him though a man or a woman he could not discern we're the same you and I the only difference is that I've accepted what I am and what is that as he looked on the blonde crossed his fingers whatever the hell I want to be for instance for a fleeting instant that wide Visage vanished in a white plume of smoke toughing in shock as much as surprise Lancer struck out with his weapon half expecting an attack instead his Lance met a bare forearm small and slender raised in defense of its owner that was alarming enough in and of itself but what followed hi dot dot dot with the actual hell when next he reappeared and he thought he beheld a woman's face much to his consternation Berserker was nowhere to be found rather he found himself gazing down into the Visage this strange young woman no wait now that he peered at her he noticed a resemblance the whiskers those Keen red eyes that striking blonde hair even bound behind her head in in that ridiculous style moreover she completely lacked clothing of any sort beyond the strange Scarlet shroud sheathing her body bits of air and fading smoke concealed several Choice bits from view but not for much longer for all his resolve a confused flush still Rose to his pale cheeks what Madness is this clad in Crimson light the woman flashed an impish grin I'm so sorry she purred am I making you uncomfortable very much so yes growling he swiped at her forcing her to Bound Away cease this foolishness at once fine fine just kill all the fun put it in camps why don't you C she snapped her fingers a secondary plume of smoke sprang to life around her and this time Vlad stayed the hell away from it in the end he needn't have bothered for Berserker emerged fully clothed once more an think full of striding forth from the fog as male as he'd ever been been waiting for an excuse to use that again came that crazy grin matter than ever before you should have seen your face dot dot dot very well I miscalculated Vlad growled settling into a low stance next time a lame for your head that grin grew further still you're assuming I'll give you another chance when the blonde blurred he barely reacted in time whoa at his command the Earth shifted forming a small mountain of stakes at his flank they shuttered mightily as a clawed fist crunched against them this is nothing he pulled harder on his reserves creating great Ravines in the earth entire chasms swelling with Stakes spikes capable of skewering a boar a tiger than an elephant sweat Beed down his brow but still he fought on pulling more and more pra until the very soil buckled beneath them yet still his opponent didn't emerge striking at him with lightning quick blows never remaining in one's place for more than a moment faced with such speed it was all he could do merely to track him much less pin him down some would have faltered when faced with such a foe not Lancer he still held one final card one last Ace up his sleeve just a little more dot dot dot he needed a few moments more coward fight me like a man what is a man but a miserable little pile of secrets now had Naruto been possessed of his wits and a certain vital piece of intelligence he would have realized he was the one being provoked now perhaps had he known the terrible truth he would have hesitated realized that their battle had become a war of attrition one he simply couldn't win by conventional means not only did his opponent possess n unlimited Mana thanks to the black factions manipulations but he stood at his physical peak not bound to One Source as they were the Servants of black could feasibly Outlast any one of them and emerge the Victor in this Skirmish so long as they were careful unfortunately he'd never been one for strategy if this continued at this pace he'd be forced to use that Noble fantasm whether he wanted to or not the more he fought the worse it became his body becoming entranced by battle a wide mad grin dominating his whiskered Visage as he struck out at his opponent he was enjoying himself his darker half taking hold under any other cumstances he wouldn't have hesitated he wasn't particularly fond of Lancer of black nor did he feel any real need to bend his ear unlike Sig freed but with allies mixed amongst his enemies he didn't trust himself Madness enhancement was not an element to be inflicted lightly and if he lost control thud abruptly he stumbled as a series of stakes inexplicably erupted from upper torso the sudden explosion of pain caused him to miss half a step sending him stumbling forward a second wave caught him sprouting from his legs to buckle his Limbs and force him to his knees KN coughing the crimson-clad blonde glanced down at his a thin wi line trailing out of his open mouth those Stakes hadn't come from Vlad just now rather they emerged from within him as unlikely as it might seem he knew this to be truth Gast he looked upright what dot dot dot the hell a fresh Spike emerged from his throat snapping his neck back back low laughter trickled into his ears inflaming his confusion to a feverish degree straining against the pain he willed his broken body to move he didn't dot dot dot hit me dot dot dot what is this sorry to disappoint you but my Noble fantasm aren't the stakes alone lancer's smug voice Rose over the Roaring in his ears with your resistance it took some time for them to form however the crisp sound of boot Falls pounding and is like the beating of a second heart my fantasm is the very concept of being skewered by Stakes itself therefore a fresh wave of spikes Slamm through the blond's Torso driving the breath from his body even as his oppressor approached as long as you remain inside my territory you can't escape from my Noble fantasm fing a hand forward Vlad offered him a ruul smile let's end this Berserker of red red eyes blazed white answer rather than flesh the descending storm met Crimson not the Shroud shielding the blonde but a veritable Tower of Ruby rage the Knight ignited all at once the Flames of Hell burning away every stake before it could strike him more than that it was as if the underworld itself had opened up beneath them releasing A Chorus of horrible sounds that chilled the laughter low and horse and horrible Rose around him darker than the evening itself I really didn't want to do this you know he rasped the words sounding strange and foreign in his mouth my Noble fantasm is a bit broken you see blame my warped legend for that I have to use it a certain way before I can realize its true potential now as a reward for pushing me this far I'll try to kill you quickly swaying drunkenly on his feet The Invader ripped himself free of the stakes and stumbled upright uncaring for The Battered state of his body an eerie black miasma leaked from his form further tainting the strange Scarlet shroud protecting him as Lancer looked on a fourth tail Bloom behind berserker's back joining the trio of its Brothers assembled there a thorn of Doubt held him back from attacking what did this fourth tale mean what did it signify why did he feel this sudden dread Kurama what Vlad blinked momentarily baffled by the name that's the name of the entity that I used to house those Eerie blank eyes Rose to meet his the nine-tailed fox until now I've only used three against you dot dot dot let that sink in under his watchful gaze berserker's body began to bend and twist his back arching fangs growing steadily more pronounced in his mouth visibly trying to break free was his body breaking had he pushed himself past his limits at last and reached the point of no return surely that must be it yes of course to think otherwise men Berserker had an ace of his own left to play a card he hadn't yet seen which meant you were holding back this entire time bingo with the blonde's horse voice hissed then the Flesh of his whiskered face began to peel revealed was the current of crimson light arcing beneath here I come Lord impor hope you've got enough Stakes come now don't be a fool you're beaten even you can see that join me I'm flattered but no no you're going to pay for everything you said about my master and how do you aim to make me PVE vad scoffed struggling to hide the growing unease Dawning within his this was a bluff surely it had to be with with that broken body of yours you'll only stumble and fall like the rest don't struggle in such an unsightly way before me unsightly the cirker grinned turned his head slowly you're missing the point these words emerged with an eerie calm Lancer arched an eyebrow what are you his entire body seemed to pulse with otherworldly Radiance as though lit from within gold VI with Crimson wild Prana Waring for a dominance within his body while neither triumphed the tension continued to rise sending his skin writhing madly veins throbbed in his forehead and neck his appearance becoming more and more feral as Lancer looked on indeed those On's gentle red eyes held a decidedly slitted look to them now wide and nearly euphoric with demented Glee not just that his very presence felt unstable cracks of energy bursting beneath the skin with wild abandon surely he wouldn't continue this not unless he intended to no too late he realized his intent yes the explosion hit a heartbeat later by contrast this blast was relatively contained little more than a sudden pulse of dark red a shell of ebony cocooning the blonde in Shadow a foul wind carried a plume of dust to the Forefront of lancer's gaze there one moment gone the next four tales of the blackest Crimson lashed at the ground to shatter it like so much glass once more Berserker had vanished this time when the smoke cleared there wasn't so much as a hint of humanity to be see in him no not human at all a beast a monster a creature apart crafted in the Hideous caricature of a human being the beast turned its gaze upon Lancer with slow shuttering steps those hideous white eyes took his measure and found him wanting no perhaps he'd been wrong there was a hunger to that gaze and a len compassing aice surpassed only the madness Subs assuming his form again his gaze was drawn to those four tails now more solid and opaque than ever before four taals not even half the strength of his Noble fantasm yet the sight of it rooted him where he stood unmanned him threatened to undo his very existence that Twisted mock curled in Aus of a grin Claude hands dug deep furrows upon the ground tensing in preparation of a mighty leap its entire body shifted that slumped back arching hideously a slow shuttering his fled from the Gastly tear that served as its mouth no more quips emerged from that Gastly maw no jokes no witty on linters there was only the Beast only the need to attack to ravage to destroy his gaze shifted wearily watching those clawed feet the thick corded muscles that made up its legs the attack would come in an instant a beat of sweat trickled down his brow his Lance rising in preparation Agony fire blazed through his left shoulder as the Beast barreled past him in a Twisted massive motion he hadn't even seen it move just a red blur a crimson Hast yet still his shoulder shrieked in agony demanding his attention at once reluctantly he risked a quick glance never once doubting his chances for victory of course he wouldn't lose this was his land his territory he was Superior invincible so long as he retained this power no one would be able to match him for long much less dot dot dot less dot dot dot Gast Vlad gaped openly at the ruined bleeding tear that had replaced his elbow clutching the ruined remnants of his arm and its ma the beast turned contemptuously it spat out the limb and growled it was the sound of his death now then it fell upon him a new

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Length: 244min 8sec (14648 seconds)

Published: Thu Apr 11 2024