Section 2: Fantasy Adventure Halloween

Okay, Puppy, this is it! The next Halloween!

By the way, there was a small incident just before you Rayshifted here...

If you've forgotten that too, do you want a refresher now?

？！

Got it! So, here's how it all went down...

Okay, let's start the briefing!

Doctor, you seem more excited than usual. Did something good happen?

... ...

...Anyway, let's start the briefing!

What? Aren't I always like this? Haha, or maybe it's because I've been staying up late lately.

Doctor, sorry I haven't been able to help you out even though we're in such a tense situation.

Oh, what's wrong, Fujimaru? You're looking at me strangely.

Hahaha, maybe you're tired? Still, this is all to save the world, so I want you to do your best!

？！

Fou...

Now Fou's looking at the doctor suspiciously.

...Is there something you're hiding from us?

Actually, why is the staff surrounding us right now?

...Well, a minor Singularity has been detected, see...

Obviously we can't just leave it there. I would like you to investigate and correct it.

Y-yes. Master and I are all ready to go.

Now I don't think anything will hinder this mission, but...

... ...

...All right. In any event, please enter the Coffins! Get ready to Rayshift!

Doctor!?

？！

The briefing's over, so you need to head over there now!

Wait, Doctor! You still haven't told us where we're Rayshifting to!

...Oh, someone dropped some documents here. This won't do at all.

Um, your Rayshift destination... Um, how do you read this again? Uh... I think it was...

Castle Csejte.

Yeah that's it! Got it? Time to head out!

Fou!?

Doctor! Did you just mention that one castle name we can never just let slide!?

Oh that's right! It's almost Halloween!

It was supposed to be a cordial gathering, but last year's Death Concert is still haunting us!

Senpai, it's too dangerous! That music will destroy your psyche if you continuously listen to it!

Right!

I have only bad feelings about this, so I'm going to take a voluntary leave of absence!

？！

That's not going to work! All staff, scrum!

Once we save the world, I'll personally review your current salary!

It's time to show them the muscle you've gained from training with Leonidas!

Th-That's not fair, Doctor!

Fouuu!

Let's do it! Crouch! Bind! Set!

Force them in!

Yeah!

Eep!

Fine! When you do, I'll welcome you with some pumpkin dishes!

Hey! Don't go starting rumors about me!

？！

In any event, head out!

Go, uh, keep Elisabeth company again this year!

...Meaning, just go to her concert, okay? Nothing makes an idol like her sadder than an empty venue! And you shouldn't make idols cry!

Here, I'll even give you some of my glow sticks! Now then, commence forced Rayshift!

And that's how you Rayshifted here.

Yup. That's so.

By the way, why were you so reluctant to Rayshift here, Puppy?

I'd reeeally like to know more about your reasoning there!

Good times. At least, I'm sure they were for you, Puppy, since I wasn't there.

... ...Okay, let's keep moving!

？！

Gotcha. Okay, let's skip ahead then!

So, we still have a few flashbacks to cover before we get to Castle Csejte.

For one thing, how did it end up like...THAT to begin with!?

It all began when Castle Csejte was stolen from me and the other me, and we stormed in to take it back.

？！

We've finally made it here, me. Are you ready for this?

Also, is my makeup on right?

...Of course, me. We'll defeat the witch and take back Castle Csejte!

And of course my makeup's perfect! It's me we're talking about!

Yup! By the way... Why are there two of us?

Well, it doesn't really matter.

If you ask me, by splitting into two, our idol coefficient's gone up several thousand times.

Even my idol frenemy got a bride costume so...

That's right! If there are two of her, there should be two of me!

Exactly! Smart thinking, me! And now, the most important thing, without a doubt, is...

...my new performance...

"Heartbreak★Castle Csejte Heaven and Hell Dual Concert - Sweet Bloody Halloween Special: What The... It's So Sweet!"

...is about to begin!

Ticket sales are projected to completely sell out! I had to reserve some tickets for Chaldea!

As such, I can't let the schedule get messed up, now, can I?

...Which is why I need to take back the castle, me!

Okay, let's go! Ready, set, go!

Excuse me!

Who's making all that noise? It's the middle of the night! Why can't you be quiet?

...Hmm. Why, if it isn't two ugly little girls!

Oooh... You little shrimp aren't very fashionable at all. What a sin it is to be like you!

And I am disgusted. Disgusted! You cling to the glories of the past...

You're so focused on something that you fail to see the bigger picture!

Yet I will accept that my glory must have blinded you. So sorry!

Huh? Oh, uh, no. But thank you.

Hmph! Don't get the wrong idea. It's not like I was trying to be considerate or anything when I said that!

Now get back to your dank little caves, you scrawny lizards!

Because, as you're quite well aware, staying out late is very bad for the skin!

Tch... She gives off such a powerful aura just by standing there...! Her idol coefficient is really high like always!

Jeez! I understand why I would shake in the presence of a powerful enemy, but for now, just concentrate!

I-I know that! Now get ready, witch!

You make me laugh! I've never gotten myself ready for anything! Because

Because my heart is free as a feather! I have no worries about anything!

Ugh...this self-confidence and boastful attitude... She reminds me of someone...!

She's like a woman I see every single morning...when I'm checking myself in the mirror...!

And, obviously, the word "witch" is inappropriate for me.

"Witch" in this region refers not to an embodiment of beauty such as me, but rather to that Halloween girl next to you, right?

This is just a stage outfit based on the concept of a witch! I'm the mistress of this castle!

Hahaha! Hahahahahahaha!

You may not look that great, but you've got a real sense of humor! It's tasteless, low-class, and ridiculous!

WHAT DID YOU SAY!?

Hahaha. If you're telling me that the job of a castle mistress entails wearing a ridiculous outfit like that, even I can't help but laugh.

Actually, I'm tired from laughing so much. I'm going to bed.

I'm the owner of this castle now. Naturally, I am also assuming direct control of these lands as well.

Being a ruler is much too difficult for tryhard lizards like the two of you! Now be good little commoners and quietly take your leave!

Hahaha! But I don't know if freeloading nobles like you can handle the life of a commoner!

What...!?

What did you say!?

Don't scream at me. It's like listening to surround sound.

Shut up! You took my Castle Csejte without asking!

You're not even from the right culture anyway!

You don't match Castle Csejte at all!

...? Are you so excited that you haven't even bothered to look outside?

Hahaha. It's too late. Behold the snake that foretells the end!

Huh?

Something weird's sticking out!?

Oh, you're back! Good evening! You do know I'm actually really busy?

What is that!? Why is my castle a pyramid!?

Actually, why is the pyramid upside down!?

The castle's all smooshed! All you did was stack it on top! Talk about cutting corners!

Hahaha, you've got me there, little lizards! But I'll tell you one thing:

This! Is! Remodeling!

Farewell to that nasty, disgusting prison castle! What this era wants is simplicity!

The golden ratio is the basis of beauty in this world! That's right! Just like me! Exactly like me!

No, it looks really out of place. I mean, this is Europe... Besides, how is that "remodeling"!?

Avant-garde! Hakone! Art park! Museum!

Anyway, this castle is under my control! But I understand beauty. I'm not a monster.

If you insist on holding a concert, out of respect for the former owners, I will offer you a place.

Yes... I know exactly where! How about that stable?

That's rock 'n' roll style right there! You can jam in the same kind of place that holy man was born in!

Hahaha! It's fine, it's fine. No need to thank me with words! Just bow down before me in gratitude!

Hell no!!

Hmph. So negotiations failed, huh? ...How disappointing.

I guess I have no choice then. Behold my power!

...Is what I'd like to say, but fighting directly isn't elegant. It's bad for my skin, too.

So I'll leave that to my stand-in. Fierce, ugly knight of steel, come forth!

Tristan, the Child of Sadness, has arrived.

What...?

As has Lancelot the Sorrowful.

No way...!

Now then, I have to get back to my book. Finish them by the time I'm done, you losers!

Of course, if you fail, you're banished. I have no use for men whose only redeeming quality is their beauty.

How sad... You're underestimating our power, aren't you?

I agree with Tristan. We'll have this finished before you can read the next sentence.

Now then. It's time for you to go.

H-hey, time out!

We're here to fight with that nasty woman over there!

A truly good mistress has talented retainers. Heh... I'm so perfect.

Oh, I'll give you one last bit of advice.

Remember this face, for it is my consolation to you.

After all, they say seeing beautiful things makes you more beautiful, right?

Why, you...! Let's do this, me!

Wah!?

Funyah!?

Now go. We weren't told to take your lives.

You cannot beat us, let alone our mistress.

You need to grow at least 10 years older, cute little girls.

Waah! We lost to a couple of literal home-wreckers!

W-We'll get you for this! You COUGAR LOVER!

We'll be back! Real soon!

Hahaha. I look forward to it. Now let's go, Lord Tristan.

...Home-wreckers...

(He's genuinely shocked that she called him that!)

(Panting) W-We made it out okay, somehow, but...

What do we do, me!? We can't hold our concert at this rate...

I hate to say it, but we can't handle this on our own.

...Uncle Vlad is away on business...

And Tamamo Cat said, "Woof! I'm leaving on a journey for paws unknown!" and quit her job.

By the way, do you think she was lying about why she quit? Were we tricked?

It doesn't matter. No, I mean, it does matter, but...

Waah! If only my Puppy were here!

No sense in complaining about what we can't have.

Ugh! I'm so pathetic, relying on others and whatnot!

Hmph. S-So what, me!? Do you have any good ideas?

N-No, but...

Then stop complaining!

W-What!? You don't have any ideas either, do you?

You're stupid, so just shut up!

Argh! You're me, so you're stupid too!

I'm a Caster, which makes me one rank higher than you in intelligence!

There is no such stat!

...And you know what? I'm not sure it's a good idea for Caster me to be one rank lower in MP either!

Gah! You know that's a sore spot for me!

What, you wanna fight!?

＆＄＃〓％＆∧§'（＆（％＆））!!!

"）※＄〓〓＊｀％"～'＄'％＃!!!

Huh?

Huh? What's this light?

Huh? Huh? What!?

((Wait! What happened!?))

...

WHAT IS THIS!?

And that is how I became Brave, the sword-wielding Crimson Hero...

？！

... ...

...Oh man, I never thought about it!

I swear, you've got a real screwy Spirit Origin, don't you?

Huh!? The insult... The chivalrous but thiefly voice! It must be...

Must be... Uh...

Robin Hood.

I'm the poor sap Vlad III roped in to show you around in his place.

How is it that you remember everything about me except my name? You sure you're a dragon and not a birdbrain?

Why should I bother remembering your name if you don't care about my idol career?

What, you think every security guard working a concert is a fan of the artist performing? Sometimes a job is just a job.

Anyway, that's the deal, Master.

Now come on, we're going to the tavern. That's where you and Elisabeth were reunited.

Welcome♪ ...Just kidding. Hehe.

I've been waiting for you all to get here.

Well, well, aren't you a sight for sore eyes. I gotta say, bartending suits you a lot better than espionage.

Aww, that's sweet♪ I'm afraid I don't have anything special to offer you, though.

Ah, that's all right. Why not just tell us a story? That's all I need to go with my drink.

Hehe. That, I can do.

You came to hear about the time Master and Brave Elly ran into each other here, right?

I think it went something like this...

...That's strange. The town doesn't feel like Halloween at all.

...Still, it doesn't seem like it was attacked or anything either.

And all the house lights are on, but I don't see any townspeople walking around...

Yes? ...Hmm? Up in the sky?

Um... What!?

Huh? What is it, Master? What about the castle?

Um...

？！

Castle Csejte...! What a mess!

And on top there's a pyramid...and it's upside down!!

It's just sitting there, Senpai! Like, boom!

Fou!?

I checked it out. The pyramid and the castle are from different epochs.

The former is obviously older. And the fact that it's crushing the castle like that means...

Right. I've never heard of her having anything to do with pyramids.

Fujimaru, you sound way too excited. Anyway, that pyramid must be the source of the Singularity.

？！

What should we do, Master? Head up there?

Yes, but it might be difficult to ask the townsfolk for information...

...Hmm? A tavern, you say? ...I see.

Neither of us can have alcohol, but let's go.

I see...

People let their guard down when there's alcohol around. They're more likely to talk...even with newcomers like us.

All right! Let's go!

？！

Welcome♪

...Um.

My my, such young customers. Welcome to Mata Hari's tavern!

Your one-stop shop for bittersweet meetings and farewells!

Are you seeking traveling companions?

C-companions? No, we're fine.

Oh, is that so.

Then perhaps that cute guy with you came to find some other kind of companionship?

I wouldn't mind spending the night with you, you know...

No, we're fine! Right, Senpai!? Right!?

？！

That's too bad.

Actually, we'd like to ask about that pyramid...

Oh yes, the pyramid. It fell from the sky one day. It really was sudden.

Inside it, you'll find a queen and the loyal knights who serve her.

They banned Halloween. Can you believe it?

Banned...Halloween!?

There was a notice from the queen.

"If you object to the way I rule, if you're a reckless savage that dreams of getting rich fast, come and challenge this pyramid."

...So she has declared.

And so this town is searching for heroes to do just thatto take on Pyramid Csejte.

I'll do it! I'm going to get rich off the pyramid's treasure!

Leave the defending to me, you guys!

We need a mage! I'm a priest that only knows how to heal using mundane means!

Heh, leave any doors and chests to me!

So many people from so many different lands... I see. No wonder it's so lively.

... ...

... ...

...Master?

？！

(Starry-eyed)

Master, it's too late. She's noticed us. She's positively glowing!

Puppy! Hey there! Heeeeeey!

L-let's make a run for it, Master!

Wait! Hey, waaaaaaiiit!

She's chasing after us! Also, I think I just saw a familiar face!

Maybe that was just my imagination! But we don't have time for that!

Waaaaaiiiiit!

Master! Master!

It was basic survival instinct that made us flee, but maybe we should at least listen to what she has to say!?

Y-Yeah! It's bound to be one of the causes of this Singularity, after all!

Last year's Halloween must be a great source of trauma for you, Master...

No, I get it. Our feet just started moving of their own accord!

？！

You made me fall over! That hurt! Don't leave me behiiiiiind!

Master... I hear crying...from behind us...

？！

Okay... Let's head back.

Fou! Fou, fou!

What do you want? I have a broken heart, you know... Oh, Puppy!

Oh, come on! So you did hear me!

I'm not happy about this at all!

You made me so worried! You should be punished!

...Is that you, Elisabeth...?

Have you forgotten!?

It's me, the celebrated diva, praised as a talent that only comes once every thousand years, an unbridled genius!

Elisabeth the Crimson Hero!

Fou-bah!?

Why the nicknames!?

...They're not around anymore. They're alive in my heart.

To be more specific, we fused together.

Fou...

Fou seems to be shocked at how far removed from a Servant she's become.

That's right. The swimsuit event is over, Elisabeth.

What? Wait, you had a swimsuit event without me!? Where was my invite!?

That's not fair! That's not fair at all!

...Well, let's forget about that for now.

Let's not!

I want to know precisely why no one called me!

？！

I see. So dual Elisabeths were driven out of Castle Csejte by this queen.

Yeah, exactly. Now do you understand?

The LanCas duo couldn't finish what they started. So now there's something I must do... For their sake.

In other words, once more

That's right!

That cursed pyramid has destroyed my concert hall!

I'm going to take it out and overthrow the queen within! That is the mission of the Crimson Hero Elisabeth!

Yes. I see. That's why there are tons of adventurers in the tavern.

Fou.

Fou's trying to say something, but it's best not to translate it.

？！

There she is! Surround her!

...!

Oh? What's going on? This is...

Elisabeth, who are these people?

The queen's lackeys! Be careful! They're all pretty strong!

We are knights in the queen's service. We fight to purge Halloween.

Those who speak of or desire to bring back Halloween shall be exiled or sentenced to hard labor, without exception!

That's terrible...!

And we also received a complaint that this girl over here is...um...not wearing appropriate attire in public...

Fou.

That's not true! I'm quite obviously dressed as a hero! ...Wait, I am, right!?

(Ahem)

In any event, it's exile or hard labor. You're going to have to pick one!

I don't have to be afraid of you any longer! Come, Puppy! We're going to fight!

Wait.

Can you at least tell us why Halloween was banned?

Because, uh... Because the queen ordered it!

Then we'd like to ask the queen why.

The world's most lovely queen will not hold an audience with the likes of you!

Sorry, but we're going to restrain you!

Like hell you are!

If you're going to stand in the way of my concerts and everything I stand for...

...I don't care who you are. I'll use every ounce of my strength to defeat you!

Looks like there's no way around it. Let's go, Master!

By the way... Do you keep seeing someone lurking around here?

W-we've failed...! Retreat! Retreat!

We sent them running, but...they were all quite skilled.

A queen adored by knights of such caliber... I wonder what she's like.

We'll probably need to meet her if we're going to repair the Singularity.

Now, Puppy, you're going to help me, right!?

？！

...Th-thank goodness...

Thank you... I'm so moved, I want to dance and sing right at this moment.

Not necessary, let's move!

Eh!? Fast much!?

...Whatever. Anyway...!

The legend of the Crimson Hero Elisabeth is going to start right here! That witch needs to brace herself!

Crimson Hero Elisabeth's Adventure has begun!

So why were you in the tavern with that sign?

Oh, that? All I did was say this to the owner lady:

"Now then! I'm looking for some strong, radiant companions! Ones who will put me in the spotlight and worship me!"

"I'll be on vocals. I've never been in a band before. Looking for pros on guitar, bass, and drums."

When I did, she smiled and just handed the sign to me! Isn't that mean!?

I guess it serves you right...

That about covers it. Though of course, I only heard about what happened outside the tavern secondhand.

？！

It's not like that. That Elisa was me, yet also me.

Man, you are completely nuts, but you're eerily self-aware, aren't you? Damn if that doesn't make you even more of a pain in the ass...

Oh, right.

Did you still want that sign you were wearing? I actually still have it.

Hell no!

Too bad.

You were so cute with it.

... ...

... ...I said no and I meant it!

？！

I'm not surprised. Elisabeth has a hell of a time resisting anything that calls her "cute"...

All right, come on. Csejte Pyramid isn't going to visit itself!

...That said, getting there from here is a little...tricky.

？！

That's what I said.

Anyway, the reason it's so tricky is...

...that we have to make it through here to reach the castle.

Seriously. No wonder this country's never seen any rebellions. They can't even get to the castle without passing through a damn lava field.

It's weird, right? When did we even get those? And HOW did we get them?

I know this is a Singularity, but it can't be ANYTHING goes, right?

？！

Oh well. No sense whining about it now.

Come on, Puppy! You too, Forest Sage!

Yeah, yeah. Ugh, how do I keep getting mixed up in crap like this?

？！

That? It's a long story...

First things first. We should get more people!

Are we not enough on our own...?

No, that's not it! Mash, Puppy, I'm always depending on you!

But we're up against famous knights. Just the three of us isn't enough!

Also, I'm a fantasy hero. They always have a wide variety of party members to support them!

When I was an idol, I had someone on drums and taiko, woodwind, and more, all to back me up!

Yes, we played to the primal beats! You could really feel it!

I know... But I think there's an even more pressing issue at hand...

？！

Umm... So you'd like a Caster as well?

Yep, yep! And a cleric type would be good too. One who can use their cure magic for healing!

Healing, huh...

...Now then, let's begin the treatment.

This is to save you. You will have to endure one or two broken bones, and maybe the loss of an arm or two. Or three.

Okay, here I go!

Hm? Healing? You don't need that yet. We can self-heal through adrenaline and endorphins alone!

Come now, don't cry. Pull yourself together. You're a hero, right!?

Hmm... We don't really know what we're doing, so we're going to take you apart. We'll do our best!

...Let's handle the healing ourselves!

Finding the right person for the job is harder than I thought... Is there anyone else who can heal?

Others who could... Perhaps Sanson?

There, I healed you.

To think that I would be healing people, when I used to execute people. Hehe, how ironic...

Yes, I have sinned...

Oh, Marie... Marie... Will I ever be able to forgive myself?

He'd be too burdened with guilt to even do his job...

？！

It's no use. Nobody comes to mind.

How about we head back to the tavern and ask there?

Uh, I'm not sure about the tavern...

...I suppose you're right. In that case, Doctor...

... (Yawn)

？！

Yikes! Talk about an ominous voice!

I had a rare occasion to relax, and I couldn't resist...

Don't worry, I'm still confirming your existence. What's going on?

We want to find a Servant that can join us, so we'd like you to widen the search range as much as possible.

Okay, roger that. ...It's weak, but there's a signature near you.

What!? Near us!?

Master, be careful! Someone might be here to ambush us!

Huh? What? Is someone here?

Show yourself!

...It's quiet. Doctor, are you sure...?

Of course I am! I'm doing my job! I really am!

But if it's that close and you can't tell, then that means

An Assassin, I imagine.

They haven't moved at all, so I'm guessing they don't mean you any harm.

Aaaaaahhh!!

Master, that scream...!

Who set this trap here!? M-My leg's stuck and I can't move...!

Something weird's coming! I can't move! Save me, Puppy!

？！

Right!

Elisabeth!

Puppy! My leg! It's stuck! I can't move!

Save meeeeee!

It's okay! We're coming! Master, give me your orders!

Save me before you do that!

？！

The battle is over.

Good work. I'm not seeing any more enemies in the surrounding area.

Except for the KO'd demi-dragon in front of you, I mean.

Okay, Doctor. So...

...

The constant flailing must've made all her blood rush to her head and knocked her out. I suppose we should get her down.

That was mean! You just left me there!

Sorry, we had to prioritize the situation...

In any event, there isn't anyone here! I'll turn you into a pincushion for lying to me!

That's strange. Looks like they just won't come out.

It's almost like they're saying, "I want nothing to do with this zero who's mistaken herself for a hero! I'm going to stay in my room!"

We'll just have to bring them out somehow...

？！

Fou!?

Master, you look like you just saw the world ending or something!

Your spiritual essence is also wavering! Are you okay, Fujimaru!?

Wh-What's wrong, Puppy? You don't look so well.

Do you want to hear a song? Will you feel better if you hear me sing?

Elisabeth, that's

？！

WH...

WHAT DID YOU SAY!?

That... That can't be! Fujimaru, this is all my fault!

You must've been carrying around a heavy mental burden all this time!

I'll Rayshift you back, and we can try this Singularity again later...

Master, pull yourself together! Um, well... You can do it! You can do it!

Fou, fou, fou!

Puppy... You've finally become captivated by my songs...!

Very well. This will double as my daily voice training. I'll sing my heart out for you!

Consider yourself lucky.

You're going to be the first ones who get to hear my songs after becoming a hero.

I wonder if a flock of wyverns will randomly come to attack!?

If not, Roman soldiers will suffice. Honestly, anything's fine... Whoops! Guess not!

It's...too late...!

Hold it riiight there!

Oh.

Fou.

？！

Huh? Uh... It's the green... You know...

Robin Hood!

Yeah, that's it!

D-Dammit! I accidentally released my No Face May King!

Fujimaru... You're reckless.

Huh? Huh? Wait, what's going on?

...!

Master risked it all to bring the hidden Servant out...!

...I don't really get it, but this is all thanks to my song, right?

I'm just glad I was able to help Puppy.

？！

Fou...

If it's going to weigh on your conscience later, then don't bother doing it at all...

...Oh!

Elisabeth?

I get it! That trap that got me a moment ago!

That was your doing, wasn't it!?

What a pain. You have surprisingly good intuition. Yeah, yeah, sorry about that.

The outskirts of town have been dangerous lately. Pests and werebeasts have been lurking about.

Probably because it's almost Halloween. The monsters are getting all excited, too.

As a guy who roosts around these parts, I can't sleep at night without setting up some traps. I get all anxious.

Are you sure that's the werebeasts' fault? Is it not just that you need traps around to feel at ease?

The latter, of course. A free safe haven doesn't feel right. Safety is maintained through hard work and money.

Yep, I'm a cautious guy. Only the humble survive in the forest.

I'm naturally a coward. I'm scared to see my enemy's face straight on.

Is that why you take them down from the shadows? You're actually an Assassin, aren't you?

Yeah, beasts typically don't go near human territory. They're careful, after all.

But they've gotten so close. We're in a perilous situation here.

？！

It does seem that it is unusually dangerous here. I bet that pyramid is the main culprit.

That's right, Mash! Nicely done!

That pyramid is the cause of everything! I'm sure something can be done if we travel there!

You think so?

To be honest, the werebeasts started showing up way before the pyramid

Hey, looks like someone else got caught in the trap.

If you're going to take on the pyramid, I don't mind lending a hand. That queen's brazen attitude is just too much for me.

I was just thinking that she could use a little punishment.

Thank you very much! Elisabeth, we got ourselves a scout!

Scout? You mean someone who looks for potential idols!?

...But I don't feel like joining an agency yet...

What should I do...?

Considering you're a ruler, I really think you should stop daydreaming like that, you know?

Sh-Shut up. Anyway, let's take out those werebeasts!

Puppy, Mash, Robin... Follow me!

I can't have dirty werebeasts attacking my town!

...

Robin, what's wrong?

Oh, nothing. Just thinking about how the apple doesn't fall far from the tree, so to speak...

That dragon girl has no other plan but to rush in. We'll just have to support her, won't we?

There you are! Hahaha. Something really did get caught!

You look stupid hanging upside down like that!

Fou!

Elisabeth! You should think about what happened to you a few minutes ago!

I decided to stay positive, and keep anything that happened in the past locked away in my heart!

Well how about you examine some of those things tucked away in your heart, huh?

Yeah, I couldn't forget them even if I wanted to!

Anyway, Green! You're joining us once we take them out!

Sure. Once we get rid of all of them, there's no reason for me to stay in this forest anyway.

This is totally going to be a pain, but I guess I have to. I'll join you on your Death Tour!

It's not a "Death Tour"! It's a curing, shiny concert tour!

Alright, the scout will now scout for us! You're going to keep your promise, right?

Fine. So what do we do? Barge into the pyramid now?

No, I want one more person, I think.

I-Is it? I thought it was six...

Anyway, Puppy, I want a mage!

That's right, Puppy!

？！

Huh. You're going to go scout a mage, huh... Well, that's fine.

I do know someone, but...um...

Is there a problem?

Is it because they have gone insane, or that they build miniature gardens, or that they're fighting between AC and DC, or that they summon a flying saucer...?

...Well, those would be problems, yeah... It's just, she's a lot like someone we know.

A lot like who?

(Points silently)

Me?

(Gasp!) I just had a feeling of impending disaster!

But he who runs in the face of the enemy does not deserve the mantle of "pharaoh."

No matter what disaster it may be, I shall humbly fight it off!

...Hey, are we there yet?

Sure, just wait a little longer.

Robin, Robin.

Um... Who is this mage you're talking about, and how is she like Elisabeth?

They're practically one and the same. She's just a bit more intelligent.

She's a bright one, but she's narrow-minded. Arrogant. Bossy. Fairly serious, but with a low boiling point.

She jumps to conclusions and goes out of control, leading to disastrous consequences. It's all very painful to watch.

Oh...

Fou...

What? That's not like me at all.

It's just like you.

(Gulp)

She's a pharaoh, and a queen, as well as a self-proclaimed god of the sky and the underworld.

What? Don't you think that's too much description? Only idols of little talent have that many traits.

Noblewoman, vampire, serial killer, bat wings, dragon horns, idol, dragon girl. Isn't that too much too?

Wait, how come all my traits sound negative!?

Hey, hold it. I'm detecting a powerful signal...

Who's intruding in my territory this late without an appointment? Begone, impudent ones!

Fooou!

S-so sudden!

Waaaaah!

Calm down! It's an illusion. An illusion!

Hey there, Your Majesty.

May King, you must be mad to bring them here.

We made a pact to protect one another's territory.

Firstly, stop calling me that. It's embarrassing.

And secondly, what's your deal? Bringing out a scary illusion to intimidate us and whatnot?

Well, what did you expect?

I don't know about you and the shield girl, but that woman there has a nasty aura.

Eh? Me?

Indeed. Tell me your name, impudent one.

You're... I don't know...um, like... The fact that I feel a subtle kinship with you is ticking me off!

This may sound sudden, but I hereby declare you my eternal rival! Got it!?

Fine by me!

For some reason, when I'm talking to you, my head starts to hurt and it's ticking me off!

I see. So it looks like our opinions align.

Right. That's good.

... ...

... ...

TELL ME YOUR NAME!

When these two start talking, I get the feeling it will never end, Master!

Huh? Oh, r-right.

Huh? Name? Oh, right. Name. Yes, name.

？！

My name is Nitocris. I am a pharaoh from a distant land.

The god of the underworld, and the incarnation of the sky god Horus.

And now, I study magecraft while I frolic with my phantoms in a deep cave.

My name is Elisabeth Báthory. As you can see, I'm an idol.

My specialty is idol pop, I suppose. And since I have draconic blood, naturally I also have a breath attack!

And I'm also a distinguished noble. And these wings and horns? Cute, aren't they? Anything else?

I see. Now we understand each other well.

That's right. I think so too.

We'll never get along!!

No, I think you two are getting along just fine.

How!? She's a typical spoiled Western noble girl!

She's the type of woman I hate the most in this world! She needs to suffer more!

Th-That's my line! I hate that "Oh, look at me, I'm a queen" attitude! It makes me want to throw up! Especially since you're an old hag!

(Master, is she talking about Carmilla?)

(It's very sad, isn't it...?)

She's lived a complicated life, too, huh?

？！

I can't take this anymore! It's time to duel! I'll smash your face in with my holy sword!

Fine! I'll teach you and your 80s style who's really the boss!

That armor is just old! I can't say exactly what's old about it, but it's very old!

What? You don't even know that retro style is the new trend!? What a dummy!

The only thing retro we need around here is Egypt! You moron!

RAAARRGGH!

HISSSSSS!

Master, I don't understand what's going on. Fou's cries are easier to follow!

Fou...

What are you doing? Let's go, Puppy! Crimson Hero Elisabeth is going to take down the evil mage!

Follow meeeeee!

Hey! Please don't take Master away!

Argh! Damn it! We've got no choice but to follow them!

First, let's have you fight my pretty, pretty phantoms!

Bring it on! Come on, Puppy!

？！

We're through! Let's keep going!

My throat's all warmed up now!

Tch, I can hear those evil sound waves all the way here.

It's like the wails of the dead from the underworld! Honestly, it's a genre I like!

Idol pop... I guess I can't take it lightly!

What do you mean by wails of the dead!?

The motto of idol pop is "Cute, Cuter, Cutest," you know!

But I'm not done yet! ...Sphinx! Come on out!

？！

Heheh. It costs a lot to rent, but this sphinx is the true guardian of my cavern.

Pharaoh Ozymandias may not look it, but he runs a very honest business...

"Oh, you want to borrow my army of Divine Beasts? Then the rental fee is three scarabs a week."

"If you want a Malikah Sphinx, add in ten chains. Also, make sure its stomach is full when you bring it back."

He gave me those very reasonable terms! Now, get them!

Tch! Even I can tell... That thing is really powerful!

But don't worry, Puppy. I will win. You know why?

Heheh, so even my little Puppy doesn't know? Then I'll tell you.

Close. But might doesn't always make right.

？！

It's because I'm a hero. In other words, the good guy always wins!

Now do you get it, Puppy?

...That's strange. My pharaoh-vision shows your original alignment as Chaotic-Evil...

Sh-sh-shut up! Bring it, you hag!

...That was surprisingly easy!

Th-That's strange! There's no way my guardian sphinx is this weak!

That's it! How foolish! I should've brought a heater!

(GASP!) It must have been tired from its long journey from Egypt...!

And it probably couldn't adapt to the environment either! How foolish of me!

？！

Now we finally meet!

So you made it through all my challenges, and now here you are at last.

I shall praise you for that! But this is the end of the line!

Why? Because I'm splendidly strong! I've been cooped up in my room perfecting my magecraft!

...Unbelievable. She's bragging about being a shut-in!

Wait, are you okay? I really hate dark and cramped places.

Me too! But this is the underworld right now! If I want to enhance my dark pharaoh power, this is the only place!

To be honest, the Western underworld is just too damaging.

The Egyptian underworld is vast, comfortable, and dry... Why do you people view death as a negative thing?

Rather, why do you have to punish souls who have already lost their bodies? Does your god actually hate humans?

...Listen to you. You're pretty cynical. You look pretty sporty, but you're actually just another bookworm.

Book...worm? No, I study curses, see...

I wrote messages as a pharaoh, but most of what I wrote were spells and curses...

So you're a bass player!

The person that works hard to set the tone of the band from behind the scenes and carve an oppressive sound into the audience!

But the sound is usually hidden under the melody of the guitar. The guitar plays the melody, the bass lays down the rhythm...

Oh, it's so sad! The bassist is lonely, but their job is the most rock 'n' roll of them all! That's what I think!

You must've endured a lot, despite your demeanor!

I don't really know what you mean by bassist, but I appreciate your noticing that!

And I can see you struggle a lot, too! Just look at how hard the people around you struggle!

Yes, of course! Wait... Was that a compliment?

Right!? Zebra stripes says some good things, despite being our enemy!

Yeah. She has the insight to understand a situation in a single moment, but her conclusions always seem to miss the mark...

？！

I accept it. That woman is a tough foe! That's why I won't use any tricks. I'll fight her head-on!

Haha, bring it on. If it weren't for this situation, I'm sure we'd

Yes, I'm sure we could've been friends...! But that future will never happen.

It's sad to say it, but you're right. Now let's fight...!

？！

100% SURE!

Heh... Not bad... I've run out of my hardworking phantoms...

You're not so bad yourself. Those were some amazing moves... Also, those phantoms are cute.

Especially the ones with the sheets on their heads. The ones that go in circles.

I feel like they could give me some useful ideas for my concert!

So you noticed my medjed... I guess you're not just a harmful beast after all.

Your songs really were wonderful... The phantoms were all applauding...

And so was I... It felt so good that I was inspired spiritually.

？！

It's true that the pyramid has been in the back of my mind. As pharaoh, I figured I needed to "say hello"...

But I didn't think it was right to take them on alone, so I stayed here in my little abode.

...Very well, Crimson Hero Elisabeth. I will help you with your concert.

Thank you. I have a feeling we will become good friends.

(Panting) We've finally caught up... Huh?

A-a handshake? Not a fight?

Um... Master? What happened?

？！

...But if two troublemakers become friends, that just means an exponential increase in problems for us...

WHAT DID YOU SAY!?

Fou...

Anyway, let's get going! Our goal is to reach Pyramid Csejte!

Our next stop takes us through the Glacier Zone!

Glaciers!?

...Now that I think about it, yes, it's weird to have something like that on the way to a castle...

I think it's a staple for these type of adventures.

...Hm? I'm seeing one, two, three, four...five Servant responses...

There's one too many of you!

...Hmph. There's an un-candy lack of candy around here... And no, that wasn't meant to be a joke.

What's going on, Fujimaru? You didn't lie to me, did you!?

I thought Halloween was supposed to be this wonderful festival where you can eat all the candy you want!

Idiot! I've been here the whole time! You just failed to notice me!

Fwahahaha! I Rayshifted here with you!

？！

So I wasn't seeing things...! Thank goodness!

Huh? Who are you? I don't want a Jester joining my party!

Who are you calling a Jester!? I'm not some drunk Kyoto commoner!

Looks like the next episode will still be chaotic!

There's no need to introduce myself! That's right, it's me, Ibaraki!

If you noticed me there, you should've said something! Or are you teasing me!?

Sorry. I thought you were some child trying to stalk us for some sweets!

Y-you... Y-y-you...!

You thought I would hang around just for some sweets!? They were good, yes, but still...!

？！

Argh! You're all a bunch of imbeciles! Don't you know who I am!?

I'm the leader of the oni, as well as a skilled thief notorious in the capital!

I am Ibaraki-Douji, a thief so great that I was able to build the great Ibuki Shuten Palace on Mt. Ooe!

A thief... Right, I suppose that's accurate... There are records of you stealing treasures from the nobility...

Hahahaha, that's right!

"Princess Kaguya" is such a joke! If I had been around in that period, those five treasures would've easily been mine!

So, do you fear me now!? Do you respect me!? Will you praise me!? Will you give me some sweets!?

I am an evil monster, an oni... Achoo!

Sniff... It's cold... I hate being cold... Mother always told me to wear a belly warmer...

...Um, wait. Uh, where was I in my story?

？！

Enough, eh? I see, I see. Then you're quick to understand. That's not a bad thing.

But Mash. You look as cold as me. Aren't you uncomfortable? Do you not have a belly warmer?

No, I'm fine... But it's true that the temperature is low in this area.

Senpai, as long as you're in your Chaldea uniform, you should be fine. It's resistant to both the cold and the heat.

What about you, Elisabeth? Um, since you're exposing yourself more than usual...

...I'm cold...

？！

I-I'm a hero, so it shouldn't be a problem! Heroes don't catch colds!

I don't think she's okay... Let's get through here as quick as we can.

Y-Yes, good idea...

From a pharaoh point of view, I think it's best we just run right through.

My garments don't cover much either!

Got it. Then let's go for a little run!

Waaah, it's cold!

My lovely phantoms normally cool me down, but in this weather, they're kind of annoying!

Yeah... Even I'm cold. And I'm one of the more properly dressed ones.

By the way, Ibaraki! Why did you come here!?

(Talking with mouth full of something) Oh, no special reason. I just felt like it.

...Oh. You just felt like it...

And it's not for extremely selfish reasons, correct?

？！

I don't understand. Is that a password? But that tart thing was delicious.

And this "candy" stuff is exceptional as well! But it's so sweet, I'm afraid my fangs will melt!

...Sheesh. Back in the day, a single piece of konpeitou was enough to make me swing between joy and sorrow...

I wish Mother were here, because then I could give her some... But anyway, mmm, I'm very curious about those pound cake things too...

You've developed quite the sweet tooth...

No wonder Shuten treats you like a child...

What are you talking about? This is not my intention!

Humans are the ones who offer me sweets to save their lives!

Meat is a better choice than sweets when you get hungry. Then again, after becoming a Servant, I am never hungry!

So I'll let them live in exchange for this unsubstantial offering of sweets, but just this once. Welp, I feel like I'm going to melt!

I see. Intentions aside, your true feelings are totally showing.

But once you step out of town, what the heck is going on!? "Treat! Treat! Treeeaaat!"

I keep yelling the password, but no one shows up! Ah! Oh no! I'm getting sugar withdrawal symptoms...!

I need something to munch on! Something sugary! Something tough!

But if you don't have anything like that, one of those Evil Bones you always have stocked up will do!

？！

Then candy! Marshmallows would be fine, too!

Come to think of it, running around in the cold is making me crave something with calories in it!

S-Senpai!?

Mmm, she looks soft but not sweet! Rejected!

Hahaha. That's because we used a lot on Caster Elisabeth.

What...did you just say!?

？！

So... no more sweets? All gone?

But I still haven't had my favoritethis thing you call "chocolate"!

That's the way the cookie crumbles...

Grrr, grrr, hahahaha! ...I'm going home...

I'm going back to the mountain!

P-Please, wait, Ibaraki! I'll give you sweets when we get back to Chaldea!

Our meeting up here must be fate. Please, won't you help us?

Bwahahaha!

Nonsense. A human seeking help from an oni is the height of absurdity!

You're right, but...

... (Rustle, rustle)

In the first place, I only came here for fun. I am what you could call a visitor from out of town, and yet you ask for my help toMmmpph!

Hmm?

Ohhh... Oooooohhh!

Fou!

Whoops, silly me, throwing chocolate around like that! I was saving that for the kids in town...

Although I suppose this works in a Japanese sense. Don't people there yell "Oni out, luck in!" while throwing food?

This is...choco...chocolate...! It's sweet as hell...and sweet as hell to boot!

This oni here isn't good at expressing herself.

But it won't work. Just a measly piece of chocolate won't work on me at all! It won't work...!

She's gritting her teeth through a torrent of tears... Her lament is making me choke up...

Yaaa! What's wrong, good man in green!? Aren't you going to attack me more!? Come on, come on!

Like the time at Rashomon! Just like at Rashomon!

Well, I wish I could give you more, but...

Uh-oh, something's coming. This is no time to be throwing chocolate around.

Hahahahaha, this infuriates me even more! Scum! Get out of here. I'll rip you limb from limb!

M-moving to battle formation! Whenever you're ready, Master!

Green man! Green good tidings, green pilgrim, green hermit, green geezer!

As you can see, the pests are gone! So come on! Pretend it's Setsubun and throw me some sweets!

All right, all right. I suppose you deserve it. But call me a geezer again and you can kiss chocolate goodbye.

Mmm. Understood. I'm clever in that area. But... Mmm. Mmm-mmm-mmm.

We got rid of those enemies as quickly as the chocolates melting in my mouth.

Even this delicious chocolate isn't enough to keep me here. This place isn't worthy anymore! You heard me!

Farewell! Farewell!

Oh really? I was going to say... If you can defeat the queen living in that pyramid, you'll have all the sweets you can eat. Too bad.

I knew that pyramid was trouble. When do we leave?

？！

Hmm. She's an unexpected addition to our party, but Ibaraki-Douji's strength is the real deal. Besides...

Besides what, Doctor?

I think it's a good thing she's showing an interest in human culture.

Even if her underlying aggression towards humans can't be changed, having a favorite food in common with us is a positive thing.

Yes, certainly. I think that leads to mutual understanding.

Yeah. So, Fujimaru, I know it'll be tough, but please look after her.

？！

So where do we go from here?

Next is... the Lava Zone! ...But why is there lava...?

L-Let's just go. We won't know until we see it for ourselves...!

IT'S SO HOT!

Aaand that's how we grew the party. Good thing I was ready for things to get rowdy, it being a festival and all.

It's always like this whenever you show up, Puppy! Incidentally, I did the best I could to attract new talent on my own!

...Rejection really stings, you know?

Huh. I'm shocked you know what rejection even is, much less what it feels like.

All right, there shouldn't be any enemies here now, so let's go get this over with!

Okay! Come on, Puppy!