I Don't Want Your Head

Well, what do you know? That was easy♪

What a sad, yet inspiring story...

I never would've guessed...

And here I always thought pirates were nothing but perverts.

I've never met Bartholomew but he sounds amazing. I wonder if he's around this Singularity somewhere...

... ...Ooh ho, ooh hoho.

Hey, Berserker!

If you didn't get it, quit with the ditzy act! You're ruining the show!

What!? You got a problem with gorillas!? Or muscles!? Huh!?

Can't you just talk like a normal person?

Quiet, everyone. Okay, I've got one.

Tell us about a time when you thought you were a goner, either while alive or in death! The Master goes first!

？！

No way!

Hey. You, there.

What do you think you're doing? Are you bullying him?

Huh? Isn't it obvious? We're just talking with him.

...Why?

Why? Well, you see...

Oh, there he is. Hey, wake up.

？！

Morning.

So, Lord Zhang Jue was like:

"Try to get whatever information you can out of him, even if it isn't much."

So I'm just here on his orders. Got anything you can talk about?

？！

That's it!

？！

Damn, seriously?

You're kidding me.

No way. How the hell are you even still alive?

Oh, come on. If you have to exaggerate so much to tell it, it's not a very good story... What? You're not exaggerating? That all happened?

Whoooa! A Knight of the Round Table! Whoooa!

...I'm still not sure how this happened.

？！

Well, at least you're not being mistreated, right?

... ...Then, I guess...

...it's okay?

Oh... Sorry. I didn't realize we were getting in your way.

But, I'm afraid we can't just up and leave...

Me like hang with you.

Oh, come on. You weren't talking like that earlier. Pick a lane!

...Okay.

Shut up. Shut up, shut up, shut up. Who are you people, anyway?

I'm a Rider from Sicily.

I'm a Berserker from Europe!

That's way too broad. As for me, I'm

Me? I'm an Archer from Greece.

Atalante?

Oh, no way am I in the same league as her. Artemis herself protects Atalante!

I'm, uh... I'm a Lancer who'd rather stay anonymous!

Hm. Keeping your True Name to yourself does make sense.

I've been doing my best not to give away any hints. As for me, my True Name is

I'm an alchemist. I think you guys might have heard of me.

I wouldn't go down that road if I were you. It's a real blow when someone tells you they've no idea who you are.

... ...I'm just your everyday alchemist...

I'm an Assassin 'cause of...reasons.

What are you all still doing here? Can't you just leave already?

I'm sorry, but we are here under orders!

？！

...Well, if that's what you want...

I'm not happy about it, but okay.

？！

A Saber from the Far East insisted we grow some.

Really?

Oh yeah. Said he'd commit seppuku if he had to go without white rice.

Lord Zhang Jue kept saying he didn't see what the big deal was, but he grew some anyway.

You know, I still don't know where he's growing it...or if he really is, for that matter. I mean, if he'd grown it normally, would it even have been ready so fast?

Magecraft can't make something from nothing...

...but it can make something worthwhile from something worthless.

So you think he whipped this rice up with magecraft, then?

... ...Hey.

Aren't you going to have your dessert?

？！

Never mind that now. There's always room for dessert.

Here you go. A nice apple.

？！

Great.

How is it?

？！

Right? Right? (Radiating pride)

？！

... ...Hmph.

Hey, Chaldean. I know this is sudden, but you get zero points.

？！

All that aside, what happened to this apple?

It's still got some peel and its core, and there isn't actually much edible fruit left over.

... ...

？！

...!

Is that how it works?

I guess so.

... ...

All right, I think we'd better get going.

What's happening today again?

We're going scouting in the Reinstatement Realm, and they're heading out to repair Fort Jovinus.

Roger that. Okay, Lady Salome, you take it from here, please!

Aww... I think I have to go, too.

Kriemhild's really strict about work stuff.

？！

...!

Yes, of course! Thank you! Thank you!

You'll have to tell me more stories once I get back!

...Meanwhile, Seton(?) remained carefully out of sight so as not to interrupt his fellow prisoner's fun.

Pretty considerate of me, right? Don't you think I deserve some praise?

Yeah, I was.

Especially since I could tell Salome wasn't in a great mood.

Hey, I've already come this far with it. Why stop now?

？！

That aside, those seven Servants...

...Yeah. Maybe, just maybe...

Hm? What am I talking about? Eh, I'd better not tell you yet. I'd hate to disappoint you if it doesn't pan out!

In the meantime, I'd suggest you work out a bit so you can be ready for anything.

That's it! You're doing awesome!

That's it! You're doing awes Wait. Hold it!

There's no time like the present, remember!? Never put off till tomorrow what you can do today!

？！

...!

...Phew.

Are you all right, Kadoc?

More or less. But damn, this mountain's even steeper than I imagined.

Too bad steep isn't all it is...

Look out! You have flying monsters heading toward you at high speed!

Then, we'd best hurry.

They need only knock us off and that will most assuredly be the end for all of us.

Yeah. I know. But I can only go so damn fast!

...There, I can see a crag! Not as stable footing as I'd like, but it's far better than a climb.

I suspect they'll give up and leave us alone if we can reach the crag and stay there awhile.

You'd better be right about this, Detective!

Get outta here!

Whoa! Nice spell!

It was just a magecraft flash bomb! I didn't actually attack it!

Oh...

A wise decision. Few attacks are more effective against wild animals than blinding them.

...Now then, Kadoc, I think you had better take a few steps back.

You are on it today, Holmes! I'm picking up a Servant directly above you guys!

Whoa, who the hell is this!? They're not just fast, they keep blinking in and out, too!

Are you sure it's not just some bug in the equipment!?

Wahaha! Waaahahaha! You monster birds of a feather really are sticking together, huh!

Huh? Was that supposed to be some kind of wordplay?

But I can't have you taking these people and feeding them to your chicks! That's just evil!

...No, wait. I guess you're not really being evil if you're just acting on instinct, huh? Still, can't let you do it! Sorry!

After all, those people from Bardera are our special guests!

(Hmm... It would seem we have nothing to worry about. Apart from him mispronouncing Chaldea, that is.)

Now, get ready for my Noble Phantasm!

La Black Luna!

Guh! He just hit us with it, too!

I certainly wasn't expecting that...

(Ah well, wild animals aren't exactly known for their fondness of loud noises. Makes sense they'd run off.)

Phew, that takes care of that.

... ...

... ...

... ...

...? ...!

(I can't hear a word he's saying...)

(And now he's way up in my personal space being all buddy-buddy...and I STILL can't hear a damn word!)

...!

Stop! I can't hear you! Just...stop!

Uh, excuse me.

Hm? Oh, are you talking to me? Wow! The future is now!!!

Uh, yeeeah, sure is. ...Okay, Gordy, he's all yours!

Wha...? Hey! How did I get pulled into this?

Because I was overcome by the terrible feeling that every word I said would go in one ear and out the other.

Huh? What kind of excuse is that? ...Ahem.

Uh, you there. Who are you? I'm guessing you're affiliated with Charles the Great of the Righteous Real

I'm Astolfooo!!!

Tooo loooud!

...Wait. Astolfo? As in

Right!

That's the same paladin from the legend of Charlemagne who went to the moon and backAstolfo!

Whoa! So does that mean I'm famous? Ehehe...

(He's also well-known for being, ah, completely insane, as I recall.)

Wooo! (Flashing peace signs)

...Ghh... There. I can finally hear again.

Hmm. Astolfo the Heroic Spirit.

Then when you released your True Name earlier, I take it that was the same horn you used to chase off harpies?

Yup! It's suuuper handy when you wanna get rid of Demonic Beasts!

I could cause some real chaos in an enemy army if I blew it as hard as I could. Anyway...uh...it's great!

I see. As for us, we are

Wait, wait, don't tell me! You guys are with Caldera, right?

Huh? Is that not right? What was it then? The moon?

Hahaha, we're with Chaldea. I'm Sherlock Holmes.

And this young man assisting us is Kadoc Zemlupus, a mage.

Nice to meet ya!

But I already did the whole greeting thing earliHuh? You couldn't hear me? Why not?

...Oh, right. That was my fault, wasn't it!?

Damn right it was.

Whoops. Sorry about that! Still, it beats being bird food, right?

Especially since you guys couldn't have lasted more than three minutes where you were.

So yeah, my bad! But also NOT my bad!

Hmm... Can those things both be true at once?

You know what? Let's forget it. Not like I'm gonna have permanent hearing damage. Right?

Oh definitely probably not!

So, it's fine.

..Sorry, was that a "probably" I heard in there?

Aaanywho, thanks for coming, erm...Chaldeans!

(For reasons I still don't understand,) our Righteous Realm has been waiting for you.

(I still have no idea what's going on, but) please, follow me!

(You think we can trust him?)

(If I am correct, we should be perfectly fine.)

(Apart from one or two small issues, at least.)

Oh, but I do gotta ask you not to tell the other realms about ours, okay?

There'll be tears if you do.

That's it? Whose?

Roland's.

Ah. Shoulda figured he'd be here too.

Of course he is! This IS Charles the Great's realm, you know! Heeheehee!

Oh, that reminds me: you might see him bopping around in the buff every now and then, but don't worry too much. It's just his thing.

Got it.

... ...

Wait. In the buff? Like...naked? Why?

Huh? You mean you don't know?

Isn't there a super famous legend about Roland, y'know, letting it all hang out?

Yeah, there is! I know about it, too!

But why is he still getting naked now!?

Ah. Yeah. That's...a good point. It's not great in mixed company. Can't argue there.

Hmm... I guess we could cover him up with seaweed...or do that whole pixelated blur thing...

(This sounds pretty bad! What do we do, Da Vinci!?)

(I don't see a problem here. Naked heroes are beautiful things.)

(Oh, right. I forgot about Da Vinci's artistic side!)

Well, anywho.

The more sightly we can make unsightly things, the better!

Now, let's get going!

...All right, might as well.

Indeed.

By the way, Kadoc. If I might say something about Astolfo...

Yeah.

I didn't expect any of Charlemagne's Twelve Paladins to be so, uh...cheerful.

There are a number of wild legends pertaining to him, but one in particular seems especially relevant right now.

O-oh? What's that?

It's from a tale known as "Orlando Furioso."

It tells of Astolfo traveling to the moon in search of a cure for Roland's madness.

In the process, he reacquires his own lost sanity, only to lose it again upon his return from the moon.

My point is, as a hero, Astolfo is very closely associated with madness.

Yeah, I knew that. And I have a really bad feeling about where this is going. So...go on.

Of course.

It...would seem he's ridden off on his own horse and forgotten us entirely.

Come! We must catch up!

...This is my life now.

A-Astolfo is leaving you behind at incredible speed!

At least we can still tell which direction he's heading in! Please, hurry!

RRRAAAHHH!

(That's not the kind of thing I ever expected to hear out of either of them...)

This is too good to forget! I'm gonna record this for posterity!

Annnd touchdown!

...Huh? I feel like I'm forgetting something...

... ...

Eh, whatever!

No! Not whatever!

...Ohhh! (Just remembered)

I'm sorry...

Well, I appreciate that at least. Now, in the meantime...

...Water...please...

You got it! Bring this guy all the fruit-infused water we've got!

Phew.

Fond though I am of this outfit, it was not made for long-distance sprints...

Indeed, it was quite the sight to behold.

So this is Charles the Great's realm, hm?

Although...

Here we go!

It's time for calisthenics! One, two, three, four... Five, six, seven, eight...

Don't forget to get your card stamped when you're done, guys!

Fresh veggies for cheap! Come and get your cabbage while it lasts!

Why am I out here selling vegetables!? I was Paracelsus's apprentice, dammit!

How is it so...idyllic? How can it be this peaceful?

It must be what Charles the Great wants from his subjects. His direct subordinates appear to be of like mind.

Gotta say, this isn't what I expected.

I figured this place would be all conquest. You know, military expeditions, that kinda stuff.

They must be keeping their military facilities hidden away. They are clearly keeping all crucial information under careful guard.

Yup, that's it. I'm really sorry about that.

Hm?

...Now I see.

I did not understand why you were in such a hurry to get here, especially if you had simply forgotten about us.

So, that is your usual modus operandi.

What are you talking about, Administrative Advisor?

Astolfo most likely comes to this realm at top speed to make sure the other realms are unable to follow or trace his route.

He may have carelessly forgotten about us, but I imagine the speed with which he came here is simply a habit by now.

Whoa, you really are a great detective, huh? You got it in one! It's still no excuse for leaving you guys behind, though!

So you pretty much always have to come here at top speed.

Yup! Okay! Time to go see Big Chuck!

Come on, follow me! Woohooo!

Are you ready, Kadoc?

...Yeah.

I know I've told you two this before, but just to be entirely clear...

If we lose connection again, Holmes, you do the talking.

If they demand to speak to a Master instead of a Servant, then I want you to speak on our behalf, Kadoc.

I know. I'm not going to push my own agenda here.

Besides, I don't even have one at this point. So don't worry, I'll be the best impartial negotiator I can.

Oh, right. One more thin

It seems we've been cut off after all. Oh well, I expected as much in a castle.

Then we'll stick to the plan we covered in the meeting.

Sir Charles the Great, we have a gift for the Imperial Knights here. I'm told they're Demonic Beast livers that can restore magical energy.

...You handle it.

His Imperial Majesty says to give one liver to each of the Imperial Knights.

Yes, my liege.

I have today's report, Your Imperial Majesty.

There were four fights between Servants today. Noble Phantasms were used in three of them.

...Punish them.

His Imperial Majesty says to cast seals on everyone who used their Noble Phantasms.

There will be no consequences for those who did not use their Noble Phantasms.

The fact they did not means they have not lost their senses.

Yes, my liege!

Charles the Great.

Astolfo, one of the Twelve Paladins, reporting back.

I brought the guests we discussed before.

...!

His Imperial Majesty has ordered that he be left alone with his guests. Everyone else, including the Imperial Knights, must leave the room.

But, Your Imperi

It's all right. They aren't dangerous, and they have no backup.

...Yes, my liege!

Thank you for going to greet them, Astolfo.

No problemo!

...So. Sherlock Holmes, the Servant.

What business do you have in the Righteous Realm?

Then again, perhaps I should ask you instead...

The Master, rather than the Servant.

(Yeah, that tracks. Especially if they already know Holmes's True Name.)

Kadoc Zemlupus.

I'm technically a Master, but I'm not contracted with Holmes. I'm just a backup, really.

I see.

Then the true Master of Chaldea must be the one taken prisoner.

That's right.

Our first priority right now is rescuing Fujimaru, the Master who was captured.

We'd like your help with that. Of course, we're willing to compensate you however we can.

But I hope you'll be willing to help us rescue him before we pay you.

We know he's being held prisoner in the Revenge Realm, but that's it.

What do you say?

...Hmm.

As payment, His Imperial Majesty demands that you swear sole allegiance to this realm.

(Sole allegiance, huh? Normally, we'd have to refuse a request like that, but now...)

Understood. We'll do everything you tell us to.

...But I would like to say something first.

I don't think Your Imperial Majesty, Charles the Great, would ever order us to do anything that would obviously cost us our lives, but...

I see. So you already accounted for that possibility. These are your words he is parroting, I take it, Lord Holmes?

I do hope you can forgive my assistance in this matter.

We had time to discuss some of the questions I expected you might ask on the way here, you see.

Makes sense! Ahahaha!

...Mm.

His Imperial Majesty agrees to your terms.

You are the elite stargazers who have conquered no fewer than five Lostbelts.

If we are to expect similarly great achievements here...

...then we must begin by rescuing your Master, Fujimaru.

Can you do that?

Yes, though it will require a considerable sacrifice. Go on, Minerva.

Hoot... Hoot...

(Huh? Was that the Minerva from Olympus...? It looked pretty different, but...that was definitely it.)

(How did tech from a Lostbelt wind up in a Singularity...?)

(I can worry about that later. There are more important things to deal with right now.)

Hold on. Where did that owl just go?

To make you Chaldeans' wish come true.

You mean, it already went off to rescue Fujimaru?

They do say the most effective strike is the one the enemy never sees coming, do they not?

Well, yeah. But how's the owl going to pull that off?

A considerable number of Servants loyal to the Righteous Realm are hidden among the Revenge Realm's ranks.

Our realm's natural defenses make it difficult to come and go, which complicates collecting information from our agents...

...but it's enough to learn more about the Reinstatement Realm, since the Revenge Realm is fairly lax about security.

I see.

So you've been acquiring information on the Reinstatement Realm using the Revenge Realm as a sort of relay point.

But then, when it comes time to escape

...Indeed.

His Imperial Majesty says that casualties will be unavoidable.

(Whoa, whoa, are they serious? That seems like way too much of a downside for them.)

(All they get is our total allegiance, which seems like the least they'd expect from us.)

(Plus, we can always renege on that promise after we've rescued Fujimaru.)

(I mean, they haven't even made us so much as sign a Self Geas Scroll to seal the deal yet.)

(What kind of deal is this, even? Is there something weird about this entire place, like in Faerie Britain?)

(No... Now's not the time for this, Kadoc. Just let Holmes worry about that kind of thing.)

(Whether they're lying to us or not, the fact remains that they did start a rescue operation. Let's just take this one step at a time.)

You have my deepest gratitude for your kindness and generosity, Charles the Great.

...Mm!

Now that the operation has begun, it should take Minerva about two days to return.

In the meantime, His Imperial Majesty will see that you two are given rooms.

You are welcome to rest there until further notice.

C'mon, I'll show you to them!

Thank you, Astolfo.

A moment, please. If I may, I have one final question.

I understand why we weren't permitted to view your visage, Charles the Great, much as I would have liked to...

...but may I inquire as to the name of your aide? Ms.

Oh, me? I'm just a secretary.

An ordinary secretary who happened to accomplish something halfway heroic in Spain.

I see. Thank you for your forthcomingness, my lady.

C'mon, guys! This way!

And thank you once again for your help, Charles the Great.

...Indeed.

...Phew. This is why I hate great detectives.

Huh? Is everything okay?

Hehehe.

Hell no everything's notAhem. Pardon my language. But no, sir. I'm pretty sure he's on to us.

I don't think he's determined our True Names, but I do think he's uncomfortably close.

I knew it was a mistake to send Minerva.

...Oh well, I still owe Chaldea a debt.

I can't do anything else until I've repaid them.

Really, sir? I don't think you owe them anything.

...Well, that's because it's a whole one-sided, emotional attachment thing on my end. I doubt they even know.

So, on that note...

Yes, yes, not to worry, sir. I'll still do anything you ask of me.

Thank you...

My head hurts...

...No. That's not right.

Here you go♪

Today, I tried my hand at making rice balls.

I hope you like them...

？！

Yes, that's right. We didn't have any rice, so I used barley instead.

I hope that's okay.

？！

Oh, good! Go on then, eat up!

Could I get one too?

Why should I give you one? You don't even need to eat.

...There is? Well, if you say so, I guess it's okay.

Here you go. But just one.

Whoa, really? Thanks!

Hmm, hmm... Hmm... Well now...

Hmm. I've definitely never tasted anything like it...

Hahaha, I'm just kidding.

Don't worry about me. I was just a little curious.

I knew it.

？！

I think I'll try one, too. (Munch, munch...)

... ...

H-hey. Were you just being nice?

？！

I mean, these are, well...bad.

？！

Mmm. You really think so?

I mean, they're mushy, crumbly...

...too hot, too salty, too sweet, but not all in the same place...

...and they're all gritty.

Just goes to show people from different countries have different tastes. Doubly so when they're from different eras!

So basically, it doesn't matter to him if they taste bad!

As for me, I'll come right out and say it:

I can tell you, having lived the life of an adventurer who has grown accustomed to eating anything and everything...

...that these are straight-up terrible!

Gnnnnnn!

Hey, they also say the most important ingredient is love, right?

But, I want to be able to enjoy the same foods he does.

Oh. I see...

？！

Hey, yeah! That's a good idea! No, a great idea!

Maybe...an apple would be the easiest choice?

How about making an apple pie?

Apple...pie?

So, like...cutting an apple up, doing a bunch of stuff to it, then putting some bread on top of it?

？！

Hmm... How about barley porridge?

I mean, you obviously have plenty of barley, so if you mess up and have to redo it, you're not about to run out.

？！

It is?

Hmm... Barley porridge?

I think I've had that before.

Let's see, what was it called again...? Oh, right! Kykeon! That doesn't seem too hard!

I bet if you look, you could find at least one Servant who knows how to make that!

Kykeon.

...Okay, I'll try making that.

Come on then, let's get out of here!

？！

It's fine. I already made up my mind.

Look, even the Servant standing guard won't say anything, will you?

You're kidding, right? Of course I will.

This is who I am. I have to have my way.

...Oh, all right. I guess you can leave.

It should be fine as long as you just stick to the kitchen.

？！

Then come on, let's go!

Man, why now, of all times?

Hey, relax, pal. It'll be fine. They'll be back, I'm sure of it.

That's not what I'm worried about. We just don't want him drawing too much attention.

...Huh?

...Wait a sec. What division are you from again?

... ...Heh.

That Caster was weird, but at least she was nice enough to give us a recipe.

I guess we have no choice but to make this now.

Me help.

Hehe, and now we have an assistant, too.

？！

Okay! ...Hehe, this feels so strange.

I forgot how many strange things there are in this world!

...a lot of work.

Yeah.

Okay...I think this should do it. Now we just add a little mint on top, and...

？！

Me bring some to Lady Kriemhild.

Oh, good idea. I'm sure she'll be thrilled.

Yeah. Me too.

Fujimaru.

？！

Good luck. Me do best, too.

Okay, let's go back to your cell and have this there.

？！

Oh good, you're back.

...Hey, that looks good. What is it? Kykeon?

That's right, it's kykeon, and this time I'm definitely not giving you any.

We only made enough for two.

I see. Well, I'm sorry about this, Salome.

...!

？！

Fujimaru.

In Charles the Great's name, we've come from the Righteous Realm to rescue you.

The other Chaldeans await you there.

We're saving you from this realm at their request.

Any objections? ...Please say "none."

？！

Great!

Then, let's hurry. We don't have any time to waste.

Oh really now?

Please don't move, Salome.

We may be nameless Servants, but you can't take us all on at once! We've still got the upper hand!

(If that were true, your hands wouldn't be trembling. Besides...)

Are you sure? Won't you lose by default if you try to fight anyone here?

...Dammit. Even gone rotten, you're still Salome, huh?

Hmph, I'm not rotten. Every part of me is as fresh as morning dew.

Is that...really what's important right now?

... ...(Sigh)

Okay. Suit yourselves.

Neither the gallows nor the rack would be a suitable complement to his charm.

？！

It's okay. Go on, hurry up. Even I don't know what I might do next.

...Thank you, Salome. Okay, let's get

？！

...going! Wait. What're you doing!?

Fujimaru?

C-come on. You don't have to force yourself to

？！

Okay, we're really going now! Got that!?

... ...

Put this on and cover your face. We don't want anyone recognizing you.

？！

We're pretending to be scouts heading out to the Reinstatement Realm.

You don't have to say anything until we get out of here.

If anyone asks, we can say you have a particularly strong Madness Enhancement.

Come on. We'd better hurry while Berserker's buying us time.

？！

You saw him yesterday. Remember? Guy who keeps changing up how he talks?

He's about to go on a rampage in the castle to buy us some time.

So, let's hurry up and get out of

I said, wait!

!!!

I'm coming, too.

Huh? But, you're... Wha...?

If you don't let me come along, I'll kick up a biiig fuss.

Sooo big, you won't even be able to THINK about escaping.

All right, come on then!

Just like that!?

We don't have time to argue right now! If she wants to come with us, then we'll just have to let her!

Thanks, Rider who doesn't look at all like Jokanaan!

Oooh, this will be wonderful! The start of a whole new journey!

I'm afraid that's not what this is, Salome.

Then what is it?

This is a mission we've taken up knowing full well that we might not make it home.

...Let's go.

Fujimaru. No... Master.

It's time we go.

We of the Righteous Realm shall protect you with our lives. This we swear.

What are you doing?

Please stand back, my queen! This Berserker's too strong for us!

Surround him!

Stop.

!

Raaaaaah!

I. Said. Stop.

Th-that was amazing, my queen!

That Servant didn't belong to my realm. This was a diversion...

Go check on the prisoner.

That won't be necessary.

Both the Servant and the Master who were being held there have escaped.

They were aided by the scouts who originally captured the Master of Chaldea.

On top of that, Salome has elected to join them.

...What terrible timing. I thought I would get to see his head roll soon.

I'm going after them. Ready three scouting squadrons, and call for an Assassin and an Archer.

I want Hundred Personas for my Assassin, and that sharpshooter for my Archer. I'll make them both my vassals.

Come with me to track them down too, Zhang Jue.

Yes, my queen!

(Not even a moment's hesitation.)

(If this Berserker was meant to buy them time, then he threw his life away for nothing.)

(...All right, that just leaves one other job.)

...Uh-oh. I lost the connection to my familiar. Berserker's dead!

So we've been found out. Dammit, this is getting really bad, really fast.

Well, yeah, of course.

Grandfather Zhang Jue has a surveillance network that covers the entire Revenge Realm.

I think he uses familiars? Puppets? Something like that.

Damn, seriously? Can you tell where or what they are, Caster?

No way! We might both be Casters, but he waaay outclasses me!

All we can do is run for it, then! At least the other Servants shouldn't be onto us yet!

Attention.

The Servants of Scouting Patrol One are helping the Master escape.

Kill them all. Do whatever it takes. That includes the Master.

I don't want him falling into enemy hands.

Whoever kills him shall be rewarded with one of Zhang Jue's enhanced Mystic Codes.

Dammit! That was Kriemhild!

Now what do we do!?

Caster! If you have any spells that can confuse the enemy, use them now!

Saber! Lancer! If they close the castle gate on us, can you use your Noble Phantasms to destroy it?

No way. Neither of us has a sacred sword or spear.

Then I'll just have to get the Master out of here in my chariot! Try to hold out until I can meet up with the Assassins who went on ahead of us!

Got it!

...Over there! I see them!

Let's run for it, Master!

？！

Huh? Oh, uh, okay!

You can summon Servants yourself, right!?

？！

Okay, I'm putting my faith in you then! See those three Servants up ahead?

We need to take them out right now, or we're toast. Go for it!

You did it! That was great! ...Hey, are you okay?

？！

Urk.

Salome? Is something wrong with you, too?

...I'm fine. Come on, let's go.

Let's see... Good, the gate's still open! Let's move!

Lancer!

I'll be right theWha!?

What's wrong!?

I've been caught in a snare! Don't stop for me. Run!

I'll buy you as much time as I can. Now go!

...Thank you!

Surround them!

You're not getting past us!

Why you little...!

Khh...!

Weak.

Guh...!

Archer!

On my...order's...honor...or my...name...isn't

Shut up, foot soldier.

Don't dare call yourself a knight if you can't even defeat a queen. A true knight always aspires to loftier heights and greater strength.

Do not forget that, my elite knights.

Yes, my queen!

So, they've gotten through the gate? I see.

...I'm going after them. Come with me. Prepare a mount.

Lancer just vanished, too. Stay sharp. Just because we're through the gate doesn't mean we're out of the woods.

I know that!

？！

Why are you apologizing?

It's not like these guys are doing anything admirable.

They just grabbed you and dragged you out of the dungeon.

Even I could see you had no choice about going with them.

... ...

？！

...I guess that's true, but I still don't think you have anything to apologize for.

She's right. I'm sorry for putting you in this position.

But, I genuinely believe that this missionthat is, getting you out of this realm...

...is worth soldiers like us risking our lives.

If we succeed, it'll be the greatest feat of our nameless second lives.

This is where I get off. I'm going to cast a spell that'll turn this plain into a swamp.

That should buy you a good bit of time.

Good. I'm counting on you.

Be careful, okay?

All right.

Transform. Let the earth sink as it becomes the sea. Let the flow of time be inscribed upon the ground.

You obviously didn't think this through.

Wha...!?

For one thing, a spell like this fades as soon as its caster dies, which is why you're supposed to hide yourself first.

For another, if you know your enemy has a Caster of their own, then you should know they can and will cast another spell to counter yours.

And finally, you should have known that this wouldn't be enough for the likes of me.

Then...I lost before I even made my first move...

Well, you did manage to force me to come out all this way.

For that, at least, I commend you, nameless Caster.

Sir, I have a report!

There's been a disturbance near the Retribution gate! Another prisoner has escaped!

Hm? You mean that Servant who's even weaker than a Caster?

Yes, sir.

Apparently, he had an offensive Mystic Code all set and ready to go.

He used it to set off a brilliant explosion, which convinced the other Servants they were under attack.

Oh, all right.

If you'll excuse me, Your Majesty, I need my puppets to carry me back to the castle to take care of this.

You are expert in avoiding exerting yourself, hm? Wouldn't it be better to use your own two feet?

Especially if you have any intention of remaining healthy.

Hahaha. Perhaps you'll feel differently about that sort of thing when you get to be my age.

Fair point. In the meantime, I'll keep going after them. And you, listless-looking Archer, are going to help me.

Sure, Your Majesty. Just tell me what to shoot, and I'll shoot it. That's all I'm good for around here, anyway.

I've picked up their scent, my queen.

They're headed in the opposite direction of the Reinstatement Realm.

They must be trying to reach the Righteous Realm, then. We'll kill them before they get there.

Whatever you do, do not let them out of this realm alive. Understood?

Yes, my queen.

They got Caster. I guess he didn't last very long after all.

...Hey. Can I ask you something?

Why are you all risking your lives to save this boy?

It's what we were ordered to do!

And, well...because it makes me sick to see someone be so despised when he didn't do anything wrong.

Who wouldn't want to help him escape a situation like that?

？！

Ah, don't worry about it.

...Was it that hard for you?

I see. I'm sorry I didn't realize.

You're right. Being hated is hard, isn't it?

I don't get it. I mean, that's just the way of the world.

Really!?

That's great. Really great.

I'm so glad to hear you say that.

？！

WhaRider! Get down!

Guh!

？！

Y-yeah. I'm all riGhh!

You've been poisoned!

Of course he has. Poison is an Assassin's trademark. His death will be long and painful.

You're just an Assassin! I can easily handle

Iron rope.

Hngh!

These sorts of encounters are what we excel at. You were a fool to underestimate us, Saber.

Curse...you...!

Huh!?

So, you got Thousand Leagues, Geographer, and Poison Taster.

And all you have left is a poisoned Rider.

I think you're about done running, Lady Salome.

...You people aren't Jokanaan.

Huh?

And nobody but Jokanaan gives me orders.

G-get out of the way!

Hey...Master.

Please, give me your orders. How should I defeat these Assassins!?

？！

That's right, Master. I've made my choice. I'm going to stand with you!

I used to think I could remain cold and unfeeling, no matter what my mission was...

But rebelling against Proper Human History... It seems...we've fallen...farther than...I thought...

...I think these Assassins went easy on us.

Come on. Now's our chance to run for

Guh...

？！

Don't worry about me. I'm okay. How about you, Rider?

Right... We have to go... Dammit, my chariot's all wrecked...

We'll have...to walk... Follow me...I'll show you...the way...

？！

Thanks...

I'll support him, Master. It'll be easier for me than for a human.

Now, come on. We need to hurry.

...If I know Kriemhild, she's not going to give up anytime soon.

Urgh!

？！

I'm okay... Yeah. I'm okay.

We've almost reached Assassin's rendezvous point! We should be safe once we get there!

Assassin! There you are!

... ...

I'm afraid this is as far as I go. Assassin, I'm counting on you to

...R-run.

A trap...!

？！

Master! O-oh...oh no, you're bleeding badly...!

？！

There! Now to finish him off!

...What...do you think...you're doing?

Salome! So, it's true... You really did betray us!

How dare you. How dare you... How dare you hurt my Jokanaan!

Huh!?

Hang in there...Master. These guys...are DEAD!

Dammit... Still...hehe...at least...I accomplished...my mission...!

Phew. I did it, Master! ...Master?

？！

Master! Master!

Master, hold on! Please, you have to hold on!

Salo...me...

I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. If I'd only been a little faster...

Salome!

!

You need to...get out of here... I won't last...much longer...

The Righteous Realm...is just past...this forest...

I'm going...to fire my...Noble Phantasm...into the sky...

If we're...lucky...my comrades...might realize...I'm signaling them...

...! But...what about yo

The mission...comes first... Now, get out of here. Hurry...

From there...it'll be all...up to you... Please...don't give up...

Remember...he's human... He's not...Jokanaan...

... ...I... I know that...

Good... Then, go... Go!

Dammit... I didn't want...to die, either...

But my life...wasn't worth much anyway...

Shatter, my Spirit Core! For humanity!

Noble Phantasm...release!

I've got to hurry!

It's okay. You're alive. You're still alive. Of course...because you're Jokanaan!

？！

...I'm sorry, that's not important right now.

We have to hurry. Come on! I know it hurts, but just...just please try to hold on a little longer!

...Ah.

...Jokanaan.

？！

Jokanaan. Please.

Could you do something for me?

Please, Jokanaan. I love you so much.

So won't you please...

...give me your head?

...Huh?

？！

？！

Huh? Huh??? What are you...saying...?

... ...I...see.

You're... You...aren't Jokanaan...

I'm sorry. Okay, let's keep going...Master.

Grr!

Those Servants are Kriemhild's vassals!

？！

You know how she's a queen, right?

She can share her power with people, making them into her vassals and giving them powerful protections.

Which means...this could be kind of a problem.

I've obviously lost the power she gave me.

I'm sorry. Can you walk on your own?

Good. Then, I guess this is goodbye.

You may not have been Jokanaan, but I still had fun running away with you.

Good luck. Goodbye. And...thank you.

Now...then...

Come on then, Kriemhild. Try to get in myNo. My Master's way...

...I'll tear you to bits until there's nothing left.

(Huff...huff...!)

Master... You're still here?

You stayed...for me?

？！

Master, no! Hold on!

Master!

？！

...Huh? He's just asleep?

？！

I can see you're wondering why I'm talking to you.

？！

Oh, don't be so shocked. This is just one of the things I can do.

Think of this as...a fateful encounter.

？！

Hm. An unremarkable, but eminently reasonable question.

I want to know you better, of course. You are the very avatar of mediocrity, but for some reason you continue plodding into the future with tireless optimism.

I find this, sadly, to be beyond my own comprehension. So what better way to deepen that understanding than conversation?

？！

Indeed, this is merely a dream. Surely you've experienced something similar once or twice before.

The so-called Foreign God cannot perceive dreams. I, however, have the powers of a Divine Spirit.

I took advantage of these two things to arrange this little backroom deal.

？！

Oh, no, no, we aren't discussing peace. I'm still a Foreign Disciple.

And for the record, I have no connection to this Singularity, either. Vengeance is at the heart of this Singularity.

And believe me, the one seeking it has a very, very good reason for doing so.

Anyway, allow me to get to the point. I want your positionyour seat at the table, so to speak.

？！

Not what you were expecting, hm? Give up your seat, and I promise your life will be spared.

Everyone else's lives, though... Well, you know what they say about omelets and eggs...and this is rather a large omelet.

？！

Oh, you needn't decide now. Take some time to think it over.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime betrayal, you knowor maybe this would be the second, in your case?

Anyway, it seems we're to be interrupted by a rather irksome interloper, so I think I'll be on my way.

...Oh, you're awake. Hehe.

I still can't believe you fell asleep at a time like this.

？！

Me? I should be asking you! I guess you fell asleep because you just completely ran out of energy, hm?

I didn't know how to stop your bleeding, but it looks like your Mystic Code managed to slow it down.

Your heart's beating just a little stronger now.

？！

I know. I look a mess.

Still, hehe, this was fun. You really aren't Jokanaan, are you?

Hey, listen. I

... ...

？！

...Yeah. I think our pursuers are here.

Come on, we'd better go.

You're almost there. It's not much farther now.

There! I see him!

Heeey! Over heeeeeere!

Hey, are you okay?

...I see. ...Good. I'm glad to hear that.

Okay, I'd better head back now.

？！

That's right. The air in the Righteous Realm seems like it'd be awful for my skin, so no thank you.

The next time we meet on a battlefield, we'll be enemies. Then you'll see how strong I really am.

？！

I'm afraid not. Goodbye, my not-Jokanaan. Goodbye, you perfectly ordinary...

...perfectly wonderful friend.

Hehe... They're just wasting their ammunition.

Ahh...

Ah...

...I guess I should chant a prayer for her. That's what other monks would do.

Forgive me, foreign princess. This is just what happens in a world at war.

So you killed her?

Yeah, she's gone. Guess my work here is done, then.

Shall I pursue, Your Majesty?

No need. The traitor has been dealt with.

As for the Master of Chaldea, just knowing which direction he went is enough for now.

Grating as it is that the Righteous Realm has him...

...the very fact that they chose to act now is significant.

For the time being, I'm satisfied that Salome didn't end up on their side, as well.

Assassin, you stay here and keep an eye out for any other scouts from the Righteous Realm.

Archer, you and I are returning home.

You got it.

... ...

You poor woman.

It wasn't love you felt. It wasn't even affection.

You felt nothing more than the pity the strong so often feel for the weak.

But you mistook it for something worth so much more.

...You poor, poor woman.

How sad that such an ordinary feeling to anyone else was something desperately precious to you.

...ster. Master!

？！

Master, you're awake! What a relief!

Just give me a moment, please. I need to let Holmes and Kadoc know you're okay.

？！

You're in the Righteous Realm.

I'm sure you have lots of questions, but I think Holmes can answer them better than I can.

？！

Of course. I just finished informing them, so we can talk until they arrive.

Um...how are your injuries? Are you in pain?

？！

Oh good. That's a relief. Your wound was serious, and you lost a lot of blood.

It's a good thing they had a Caster who is gifted at healing magecraft there.

？！

They said they were done, and all you needed now was rest.

I've been here keeping an eye on you in the hospital. Well, not in person, of course, but still...

？！

Oh no, not at all! I just wish I could have done more to actually help.

So, you finally woke up, huh, Fujimaru.

I'm delighted to see you once again, Mr. Fujimaru.

？！

Now, which of us should go first...? Hmm, why don't you start?

Would you be so good as to tell us what happened after we were separated?

Hmm, I see. That's quite the story...

So all the Servants who helped you escape were killed?

These guys said they were all pretty skilled Servants, too.

They might've done better in an ordinary battle, but safely extracting a noncombatant is a whole other deal.

Sounds as if they had a few factors working against them, but in this case it was a numbers game that simply didn't work in their favor.

In situations such as these, the pursuers have an overwhelming advantage over the pursued.

Still, we must be especially grateful for that Rider's final use of his Noble Phantasm.

That is what allowed Astolfo, a Servant of the Righteous Realm, to find you so quickly.

That Rider did a truly excellent job and deserves all the praise in the world.

As for you, Mr. Fujimaru, this experience must have been thoroughly exhausting.

At least you're in a safe place now, even if we're under constant surveillance.

Then again, we're free to wander the place as we like, since they're always watching and all.

？！

Indeed.

The Righteous Realmor rather, the Servant Charles the Great, is on our side. Humanity's side.

We have yet to hear him say so in as many words, admittedly.

A number of his subordinate Servants know this, as well.

But most Servants in the Righteous Realm are still under the mistaken belief that Charles the Great is also rebelling against humanity.

...There are a few other important matters I need to discuss with you, but before we get to those, I suggest we go greet Charles the Great in an official capacity.

Goredolf may technically be the director of Chaldea, but at present, you are unquestionably our representative.

That being said, we've basically already hashed things out with Charles. All that's left now is to greet him, and

(...I guess Holmes still doesn't want to talk about it.)

(He said he would once Fujimaru gets here, but...)

...Ah well, I guess the greetings will do for now. That, and a thank-you.

Gotta do it, especially since it was Astolfo, one of Charles the Great's own paladins, who rescued you.

？！

Just...so you don't forget...

...we're talking about the most powerful guy in all of European history here, okay?

Just don't piss him off.

？！

...No. Eh, whatever. You'll be fine if you just kneel, I'm sure.

That's it?

Worked last time. Why wouldn't it work now?

？！

Hey, heeey. How's he doing?

Oh hey, you're awake! That's great.

How's the wound? All better? Yay! Oh, I'm Astolfo! Hiii!

I'm one of Karl der Großeer, uh, Charles the Great's twelve paladins.

Karl, Charles... Eh! Who cares!?

You're gonna go say hi, right? C'mon, let's gooo!

？！

Yeah, uh...get used to that...

Come on, Kadoc, you too! We don't want to keep His Imperial Majesty waiting!

Waiting really GRATES on Charles the Great! Eh, eh? Ahahahaha!

？！

It's... Just don't bother. Any reaction just makes him laugh more.

Ahahahahahahaha!

See?

Astolfo, will you SHUT UP!? Christ, you're like a little kid laughing at farts.

Are...are farts not funny?

No. No, they are not.

I don't believe you.

Of, my apologies. I am Roland.

I'm one of Charles the Great's Twelve Paladins.

？！

I'm relieved to see you in good health.

Why're you being all formal, Roland? How come you're not strolling around starko like usual?

...Look, Astolfo.

It's not as though I go around stark naked because I likeOkay, no, I do like it.

？！

But I don't go naked all the time. Even I know when it's okay to strip.

Oh yeah? How're you feeling about now?

I'd say about seventy percent of me thinks it'd be fine, twenty percent doesn't care, and ten percent says it's a bad idea.

？！

(The face of a man popping stomach medicine like there's no tomorrow)

Don't worry. Ten percent of me is about the equivalent of eighty percent of most people.

Even I don't think that makes sense.

You're right. It doesn't, does it?

Ahahaha!

Come on, follow me. I'll take you to see His Imperial Majesty.

Try not to think about it too much. Stress kills.

？！

Nope. Not my style.

(...Really? I don't think I've heard anything BUT snark from him.)

(Hm, why does it feel like someone's talking shit behind my back?)

Your Imperial Majesty, Charles the Great.

I, Roland, and my fellow paladin Astolfo have brought you the Master of Chaldea.

...Indeed!

His Imperial Majesty is absolutely thrilled.

H-hold on.

Huh?

Tell me... Tell me about my Servants.

？！

Indeed.

Your Imperial Majesty, I don't think

It's fine. I need to hear what happened. I owe them that much.

...You heard His Imperial Majesty, Master of Chaldea.

？！

I see. I see...

Thank you, young one.

Your Imperial Majesty, I think you should...

Huh? Oh, uh, yes! Good work.

？！

...Now then.

(Is now a good time?)

(Everyone else is gone. It should be fine.)

I think that's enough, "Your Imperial Majesty."

I imagine this act of yours is fairly tiring. Pretending to be Charles the Great, that is.

...Roland.

Sorry. But I figured the jig was pretty much up anyway.

Am I wrong?

...No, you're not. Okay, Sir. No more playacting.

Huh? Really? I can stop now?

You can.

With Sherlock Holmes here on behalf of Chaldea, it was only a matter of time before you were found out anyway.

So let's put an end to this chapter and begin the next.

Wah! You're pulling back the curtain already, Sancho!?

Yes, I am. No time like the present, as they say.

Sancho...

Then you must be Alonso Quixano...better known as Don Quixote!

Th-that's me!

I am Don Quixote de la Mancha, knight-errant of Spain!

Or so we like to say, anyway. I'm Sancho Panza.

U-um, excuse me. I'm familiar with the story of Don Quixote, too.

And...well, doesn't it describe Sancho as a middle-aged man with a, um, paunch?

Yes, that's me. But I'm not only Sancho Panza, you see.

I'm a mixture of several different characters from the story.

I see.

I presume those characters are Rocinante, Don Quixote's faithful steed... Dulcinea, the fictional princess he claimed to be the most beautiful woman in the world...

...and Altisidora, maid to the Duchess. Am I correct?

That you are. Right on all counts.

...Why, thank you.

I-I see. So you're also Rocinante. That explains why

Oh, yes. Sir used to ride my ass day and night.

Do you HAVE to put it like that!? I was just treating you like a knight would any horse!

I have one word for you, sir: windmills.

Hrrk...

Allow me, Master.

In the tale of Don Quixote, he mistakes windmills for giants...

...and rides his valiant steed, Rocinante, into battle against them.

Speaking as the steed, it was not one of our finer moments.

That's right.

As you can imagine, it's not at all pleasant being a horse when your rider is tilting at windmills.

？！

I have you now, you evil giants! Come, Rocinante! Let's show them our mettle!

Ah, sir? Those...those are quite clearly windmills.

Heh. I see some things are still beyond you.

Sir, wait. I said wait!

Come, Rocinante! It's time to earn my beloved Dulcinea's pride!

And there he goes...

What the heeeeeell!?

I did tell you, sir.

Grr... That accursed wizard may have turned them into windmills, but I know a giant when I see one!

If I charge again with all my might, then

... ...

Oh second thought, everything hurts. I think I'll have to pass on this one.

Ahh, poor Rocinante. Are you okay? Are you even still alive?

And that is one of the world-famous Don Quixote de la Mancha's best-known exploits.

Suffice it to say that Rocinante was present, and it did not go particularly well for him.

That poor horsey.

I could have sworn those windmills were giants...

Oh yeah, I know what you mean.

There were times I went crazy and mistook Astolfo for a proper lady.

Excuse you! What do you mean "mistaken"? I'll have you know that is exactly what I am!

What kind of proper lady falls asleep and drools all over her hippogriff.

Kyaaah!

Gyaaah!

？！

Yooou got it!

Aren't you two supposed to be knights?

Ahem. Anyway, there you have it.

It just goes to show how much trouble you can get into when you can't tell what's real and what's not.

Now then, I believe it's time we got to more pressing topics. Namely, why did you claim to be Charles the Great?

And why are you giving orders to what appear to be genuine members of his Twelve Paladins?

Now that Mr. Fujimaru has joined us, I would be most grateful if you explained what's going on.

？！

That's right.

Sancho promised us she would explain everything once our Master arrived.

Indeed.

I truly appreciate the help, but we still know far too little about this Singularity.

Even Holmes can only get so far without a clue to go on.

Indeed.

I understand.

Unfortunately, I can only give you the knowledge I have from having been summoned to this Singularity.

... ...

May I, sir?

Y-yes...go ahead.

？！

(What's that all about?)

...After we were summoned to this Singularity...

...we learned that most of the other Servants here planned to rebel against Proper Human History.

At first, we thought this rebellious trend was the result of Anti-Heroes becoming outright evil and turning other heroes to their side...

...but we quickly learned that this wasn't the case.

They were all proud to announce their rebellious intentions, regardless of their original alignment.

Naturally, other Servants were summoned by the Counter Force to repair this Singularity...

...but they were vastly outnumbered and were quickly defeated, one by one.

To make matters worse, some of these Servants even joined the rebels.

I suspect another power was involved in those cases. We lost one of our own in a similar manner.

I see...

At any rate, we knew we'd never be able to repair the Singularity like this.

So we decided to gather like-minded comrades.

Fortunately, there were schisms among the rebelling Servants we were able to take advantage of.

Eventually, we managed to win Astolfo and Roland over to our side and established a third realm.

Having done that, we've been able to maintain a balance between the three powers here...

...by doing all we can to make sure neither the Revenge nor Reinstatement Realms grow too strong.

But now you've invited us to join you. I presume this means you're at your limit?

Limit?

That's right. Our faction's greatest flaw...

...is the fact that our Charles the Great isn't really Charles the Great.

So far, we've been able to skate by on the name and the fact that we have two of his Twelve Paladins on our side.

But, we won't be able to keep that pretense up much longer. In fact, it may already be too late.

I believe our subordinates will begin to suspect something isn't right within the next few days.

Then I take it they believe you to be rebels against humanity as well?

I'm afraid so.

There are a few exceptions who are still on humanity's side, like the Servants we sent to infiltrate the Revenge Realm...

...but most of our Servants believe we are also rebelling against humanity.

Though, I admittedly led them to believe this.

Hmm. Then tell me, what do you make of those Servants?

This certainly isn't the first time Servants of Proper Human History have chosen to stand against it.

They all have their own thoughts, ideals, dreams...and their own orders to follow.

For most heroes, destroying their enemies in combat is a perfectly reasonable solution.

There have also been Servants who have been corruptedessentially turned evil.

We have recorded one such notable instance in the case of Ushiwakamaru being tainted by the Chaos Tide and turning against us in the Seventh Singularity.

But there do not seem to be any such factors in place in this Singularity.

These Servants have all been summoned as normal and retain their original intellects and personalities.

But to have so many Servants choosing to rebel against Proper Human History is, frankly, bizarre. And that is putting it mildly.

I've had the same thought, so I tried asking a number of them about it.

As far as I can tell, they don't seem to have come to this decision logically. It's almost as though they're driven to rebellion on an instinctual level.

Whatever the case, they seem incapable of stopping themselves from rebelling.

Some appear to be more compelled than others, but both the Revenge and Reinstatement Realms are actively disposing of anyone they deem uncommitted.

As a rule, summoned Servants are significantly influenced by their Master's personality.

A Servant could become a monster under an evil Master, or a kindhearted familiar under a good one.

Those differences are minuscule when it comes to Heroic Spirits, so for this kind of rebellious spirit to take root so instinctively...

What are you saying, Kadoc? You think they have a truly evil being for a Master?

For example, um...someone like James Moriarty, perhaps?

... ...

What do you think, Administrative Advisor?

？！