Section 4: Halloween Do-Over

And that's why we're back here now, Puppy!

？！

Okay, on to the second round! But first!

...I'll explain why things turned out this way.

...We've come back...

Ignoring the fact that there's a giant Siegfried floating in the night sky...

What could it be that Elisabeth doesn't understand?

Green man, you seem to have some idea.

Huh?

Haha. Don't play dumb.

You were the only one who had a knowing look on your face.

Oh, yeah... Probably.

What? What is it!? What don't I understand?

...Didn't you notice something about the town?

The town...? Hmm... Oh, now that you mention it...

Nobody was preparing for Halloween. Everyone was locked up in their houses.

Isn't that because the queen in that pyramid banned all the festivities?

No.

The lack of activity was apparent long before she even came.

...Huh?

Let me fill you in.

You were so busy getting excited for Halloween that you left all your administrative duties in the lurch!

...Oh.

Don't "Oh" me!

And because you were doing nothing as leader, the townspeople didn't know if it was okay to get ready for the festival or not!

Neither did your soldiers! They couldn't decide whether to go forward with the preparations or whether to stop them!

You were the only one who was getting excited for Halloween, basically!

Ahhh...ahh...ahhhhhh!

Th-that's really bad...

...That's... So that's it...

So you alone got so swept up in Halloween fever that you forgot to order preparations to begin?

I'm in shock. How can you be a ruler if you don't care for your people?

A ruler must first ensure that their subordinates' bellies are full. Only then can the ruler eat. (Chomp, chomp)

B-but I was really busy preparing for the concert...

...There's really no excuse for what you've done...

Ugh... Wh-what should I do, Puppy? Uncle Vlad was really mad!

Waaahh...

Elisabeth, I understand how you feel, but...

We need to go back towards that gate to see the queen anyway...

But Uncle Vlad's going to get mad again...

We can't do anything about that. But there's one way to apologize...

You need to make the festival a success.

The best ever...? But how?

...Well, all you have to do is tell the townspeople that Halloween's begun.

？！

That's right, Elisabeth! Let's start Halloween properly!

Y-you're right! But how...?

Hand out pumpkins, throw sweets, and have the little brats get their costumes ready.

And then get rid of the wandering ghosts drawn to the festivities.

...G-got it!

Hmph. Then make the announcement.

Huh?

Make the announcement. Tell everyone that the festival you promised them, the one with overflowing sweets, is set to begin.

As a leader, you must be capable of such a proclamation. Especially given how loud you are usually.

...You're right. I can't just lip-synch along with some recording through a mic. My pride won't allow it.

...Here I go!

This is Elisabeth Báthory, the ruler of Castle Csejte!

I'm sorry I'm laaaaaate! But I have an announcement!

...Let the Halloween festivities commence!

Be careful! Elisabeth's proclamation made the dead burst from the ground!

Haha! As I expected, your words made the dead scream in terror!

It's time for this Halloween thing to begin! Come, Master!

I'm seeing lots of Pumpkin Heads! Let's smash them all!

Master! I'll do my best!

This time, I will do Halloween right!

We got a lot of pumpkins...

Let's give them to the people. This should get Halloween off to a good start.

That's right. You gotta start with a strong opening act!

So that's what happened...

？！

I know... I have no excuse.

Hey, at least you did better the next year, so I'd say it worked out in the end.

Hey, yeah! I try to improve on my mistakes, and that makes me super admirable!

I wish I had your knack for immediate self-reflection. Even if only in the form of a commemorative plaque.

Well, let's head back to Csejte Pyramid, shall we? It's a long way there, and hanging around here ain't gonna make it any shorter.

Aw, we'll be fine.

We already defeated all the enemies, so now it's just a straight shot back!

(Gasp... Gasp...)

(Gasp)... Glad you're...okay...Puppy... (Gasp...)

I guess...(gasp)...you ran...a lot...too...

？！

What the hell? Why'd they all respawn?

The world overflows with evil! EEEVIL!

This has gotta be the work of some kind of secret society hell-bent on stopping Halloween at all costs! Or something!

(Even if she's just running her mouth, she might actually be onto something...)

(If someone went to the trouble of removing Master's memories of Halloween, it's gotta be 'cause they posed some kind of threat somehow.)

Well, let's worry about that later. It was here in this town that we ran into another real troublesome bunch.

Yeah. Cleopatra's merry knights...

There was the Flying Tristan, and Lancelot, the man too ashamed to face a whole bunch of people.

They sure made a dramatic entrance...

The townspeople still aren't celebrating Halloween. I'm not sure, but they don't seem very happy.

Then let's start by making the place Halloween central! Right, Puppy?

Huh!? Well, um...

...Once I decide something, shouldn't it just kind of happen?

No, it shouldn't! Do you think you're some kind of spoiled princess?

We can't do it alone. Let's ask the townspeople for help.

Yeah. I'm with you.

We won't get anywhere unless we ask the townspeople.

？！

...R-right! Time to order the pigs around!

Nobody likes being called a pig. Explain to them what's going on properly. Come on, you're the ruler.

What? But my fans love it!

Even that Cock Robin chirped with joy! As its owner, that means you'd love it if I called you a pig too, right?

I've got nothing to do with that fat thing! It just follows me everywhere!

Elisabeth, you mustn't assume all humans are the same.

If you want to make Halloween fun, then you must ask properly.

F-fine...

Okay, let's split up and ask everyone we come across.

We can hand out the pumpkins at the same time.

You're right. Let's reconvene here in two hours.

Okay, see you then!

Huh? Wait, where do I go?

？！

Elisabeth, come with us.

(We wouldn't want her to say things in a weird way and cause trouble...)

Okay!

All right, I'll sit this one out. I'll be waiting here! (Chomp chomp)

Looks like we're all here.

We didn't have any luck... Master, this is depressing...

You too? ...Robin Hood, what about you?

No good. Zilch.

Still, people did seem to be looking forward to the festivities.

Oh, yes. I agree.

I don't think they were against Halloween per se, but they were not particularly open about any support either.

Grrr... Unforgivable! Halloween's a festival kids and adults can both enjoy, and yet...

It seems that Elisabeth does not have enough respect as a ruler.

Add that to the fact that the queen in the pyramid banned Halloween and it's no wonder they're not on board.

...Sheesh. What kind of queen would do that to a pyramid, anyway?

Hey, what is it about me that's wrong?

The outfit (probably).

BUT I AM A HERO!

Halloween has been banned by Oh, not you people again!?

Oh, I know! Hey, you there!

What do you think when you look at me?

What do I think?

You should hold back on showing your skin. It'll hurt if you get slashed.

Zero fashion sense!

...That sound... Oh no!

Hmm? More commotion? Well, it has nothing to do with me.

I've got this chocolate cake that the townspeople gave me to consume instead!

Heh, heheheh... It feels like a waste to even eat it... Where should my first bite be?

Gee... It looks good no matter where you begin... Aww... Heheh. You adorable little thing...

I think I should take little nibbles from the side and

HEY! WHAT GIVES!?

You're...!

Oh, how sad...

It saddens me that the queen does not wish to see the town stained in the orange of Halloween...

Huh? What's with this pretty boy?

I am Tristan... Former Knight of the Round Table. Currently a queen's knight.

Call me Tristan, the Child of Sadness... Or perhaps Tristan Who Sighs And Looks Out Upon the Setting Sun...

Way too long!

You're an Archer. You needn't go out ahead

Here's one more!

What the... Where's he going!?

Huh? What was that?

Wait! Where are you

...AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHH!

New enemy approaching, for sure this time!

What's wrong, Lanc

SHUUUUUUTTT UUUUUUPPP!!!

Eh...!? Why the sudden sleeper hold!?

I give up! I give up! I give up! I'm tapping out! I'm tapping out!

They've started fighting each other! Master, let's take them out now!

...Um, I don't really understand why...

...but my body is telling me that black knight needs to get mashed up...

...just like Gawain's potato dishes!

Right! Prepare to die!

R-right! Mash Kyrielight, taking deep breaths!

In... Out... In... Out... In... Out... In... Out...

...Okay, ready to crush him!

She's too pumped up!

？！

It's the enemy! Th-the enemy's here! The enemy!

ENEMYYYYYYYYY!

Now!

LOSERRRRRRRRRRRR!!

We lost... How sad...

Sir Tristan and Sir LanI mean, the Mysterious Black Knight have been defeated!

Anyway! This town is going to celebrate Halloween! I won't allow any complaints!

That goes for you guys too. Here, wear these and go celebrate!

A jack-o'-lantern? Uh, wait, let me at least remove my helm

Save it.

Those knights ran away crying...

Probably because you cursed those pumpkins with your Egyptian magecraft or what have you. They'll never come off now.

Thank you, Nitocris!

...Well, it is Halloween after all. Anyway, Elisabeth.

Now the townspeople can prepare for the festivities without having to be afraid of the queen.

That's true! Okay, everyone! We drove all the knights away!

Feel safe to openly celebrate Halloween!

GOOOOOOOOOD...

You seem quite happy, considering we lost...

Still, I'm glad too.

She matures fast... I was so sure it would've taken at least ten years...

QUEEEEEEEEEEEEN!

Yes. Now she has won the right to face the queen.

Now it's a question of whether or not she can surpass her. This is something we must see with our own eyes.

ESCAAAAAAAAAAAAPE!

Yes, let's take flight. Quietly now.

Hey, they're fleeing!

Easy.

How rude...!

The vanquished should hang their heads and await punishment!

Surround them, medjed!

How sad... But naturally, a knight never gives up! Not until he draws his last breath!

The game is not over until the whistle blows...!

WINNERRRRRRRRRRRR!

Now, let us escape!

...So, it was you.

Step aside, young one. You're clearly not one of us.

As you can see, I am the embodiment of chivalrous ideals, dreams, and realities. I would never lay a hand on a woman.

That holds true even for nonhumans like you. In fact, if you were a decade or so older, I would have liked to have dinner with you.

...However, given the murderous look on your face, I shall use an Evade skill on myself. Just to be safe.

That wind-cutting bow of yours... So you're the scumbag responsible!

Great Grudge of Rashomon!

Oh my...! A Noble Phantasm that removes buffs... How awful!

Here's another one for you!

Go, Sougenbi! You're going to pay for what you did to my cake!

Great Grudge of Rashomon! Raaarrrrrrgh!

Two in a row! How...agile...

STUUUUUPIIIIIIIIID!!

Hm, not good. I should have sent them flying the opposite way.

They went flying towards the pyramid. ...It's like we set them free ourselves.

Th-things like that happen in battle, you know. It's not my fault!

Eeeeeek! Shuten!? Shuten, IWhy yooou...!!!

Amazing, Master. That impression was not good at all, but it had an intensity to it.

Nyafu!? ...Huh, Shuten? No? Where'd she go?

...Why you...! What trickery is this!?

There, there, Ibaraki. Calm down.

？！

Anyway, this town has been liberated!

Even if the queen tries to stop the festivities, there's no way they ever will!

Ahh, the world is filled with the happiness of Halloween...! It makes me want to burst out singing!

Let's not do that. We'll just get sent back to the starting point again.

Why's that!?

...Oh? The children...

Yayyy, trick or treat!

Oh, m-me!? I'm sorry... I don't have any candy...

Then trick it is!

？！

Master, you too!?

Fou!

Fou just gave them the sesame buns that the doctor was hiding!

Yay, sweets!

...Phew. You saved me, Fou.

Fou fou.

Hrmm, hrmm. (Om nom nom)

Hey, it's not enough. And I'm tired of this flavor already.

I want something a little more like confectionery!

Oh, I'm sorry. How about these macarons then...?

What are these? They look great! Such vibrant colors!

And this texture... They're soft, but solid enough to be broken apart... Ah! They're all mushy inside!

Oh, wait. What's this? They have different flavors and colors!? Matcha! Chestnut! Strawberry! Pistachio!

It's like a kaleidoscope of sweets!

Yeah, kids love macarons... No wonder they hit the spot for Ibaraki-Douji...

Halloween's so fun!

Yes it is, very fun.

Look, it's a pumpkin monster!

... ...

It's finally starting to feel like Halloween. Right, Master?

Exactly!

To properly hold and run a festival is also the job of a pharaoh.

I hope that child begins to understand that soon.

Well, people need to take breaks at times. Although as a person coming from the forest, I hate rowdy places.

You say that, but I know you're secretly handing out candy to the kids.

What!? But I never sensed your eyes on me!

Kahahaha, I disguised myself as a child and received some too!

Have you no shame...?

Hmph, call me clever, you spineless candyman. I just have a different sense of pride, that is all.

？！

Now let's go pay the queen a visit! My concert willNo, never mind. The concert is also important, but...

But most of all, in order for everyone to enjoy Halloween, we need to take her out!

Fou...

I kind of understand what you're trying to say, Fou.

Even as a Heroic Spirit stopped in time, one can still understand and learn something new.

...That is true.

Even if it is like a single night's dream, the experience will not have been in vain.

Mash Kyrielight.

Yes?

...I'm sorry, it's nothing. It doesn't seem like you need my words of advice.

H-huh...?

Now, let us go. And let us face that gatekeeper once more.

...By the way, maybe one song wouldn't hurt before we go...?

ABSOLUTELY NOT!

And here we are, once again! Csejte Pyramid Castle!

Simulator or not, making the journey twice really takes a toll!

Anyway, now that we're here, we may as well tell you what happened next.

...Um, uh... Trick or treat, Uncle Vlad!

I can hear the festival... Did you yourself realize why I was angry, or did someone bring it to your attention?

If the former, then you show some promise.

If the latter, then they showed you sympathy.

The verdict looks only at the results. If the people were satisfied, then you have the right to proceed.

Uncle Vlad!

However, in this form I am especially strict with you.

You have committed many sins...

One of which I, having become a Heroic Spirit, simply cannot ignore.

...I won't say to atone for it with death. For there is no way to atone.

...!

As a king, I demonstrate magnanimity while I suffer within. But as a warrior, I shall never show mercy toward wickedness.

You... Evil killer who committed depraved acts, toyed with the citizens, and thought it only natural to be ignorant...

Your sins are a nightmare from which no one can wake, even after a hundred years. What you have done is committed a crime engraved in history.

It is time you return to the darkness where no one can venture. I shall slaughter every last one of you.

...I would have never thought my skill with a lance would come up short against a fictional creaturea vampire.

I must be the one who is unworthy.

U-Um... Uncle Vlad?

You have no right to call me that. You should refer to me as "uncle" when I'm summoned as king.

I told you before. Each different aspect of a particular hero manifests as its own distinct Servant.

Like what has happened with me here, now.

But, but even so...you're still Uncle Vlad.

...Even though you may hate me.

Even though I may have done things that are unforgivable.

You have indeed. You committed a sin...though the world may not consider it that way.

That sin is not even engraved upon your Spirit Origin. After all, that world has been forgotten.

...But I shall never forget.

You denied the final integrity of my light, my wife, my love.

For her sake, I will not forgive you. Even if she herself may have...

... ...

Elisabeth...

...I see. I somewhat recall it too. Man, humanity being in a state of flux is a nuisance.

That Vlad III and Elisabeth had a bit of a history together.

This isn't about who's right and who's wrong.

The world isn't concerned by human values like virtue. It will just adopt whatever means are useful to guarantee the continuation of its existence.

Whether it's a young lady who tries to atone for her grave sins, even if she knows no shame...

...or the conviction of a gentleman who won't accept any kind of atonement, but just seeks to punish every evil act... The world considers them equally sinful.

...Right. They're the same, so it will choose the one that's more effectiveeven someone evil, if it means preserving humanity.

If humanity's preservation isn't wished for, they won't be allowed to be summoned as a Heroic Spirit. Even if they stand for righteousness.

But if that's the case, it means even Vlad III wishes for the preservation of humanity.

After all, he was summoned as a Servant this time.

...I think you're right. I hate humans. I don't like them and I don't trust them.

That being said, I have no intention of destroying their world. After all, humans are useful for a number of things.

I exist because humans, my enemies, exist. In a world without humans, neither Shuten nor I would be summoned.

Isn't that true, Red Horns? No matter how many sins you've committed...

No one can reject your being here right now. As long as you don't wish for "nothingness," you'll be a Heroic Spirit like the rest of us.

Of course, as an Anti-Hero... A sacrifice whose role is to lose to the Heroic Spirits.

...You're right. Thanks, Ibaraki. I'm grateful.

Now then... Sorry for making you wait, Puppy. Come! To the final battle with the queen!

Nice reaction! Thank you, Fujimaru!

After we take the castle back, I'll let you help me prepare for my concert!

Ah, Master's face suddenly went pale.

Heh... It makes my heart flutter to be called a pet name by a fan...!

All right, I'll specially reserve a front-row seat for you at my concert!

What's wrong!?

Fujimaru is displaying signs of being in an incredibly agitated mental state...!

？！

Why!?

And that's how we finally made it to the pyramid!

At last, with our full party assembled, our adventure was about to reach its exciting conclusion!

Never mind how stupid the whole inciting incident of this adventure was.

Yeah, well, you know, it's okay.

？！

I said it's okay!

It's about time you got here!!! Er, not that I was worried or anything, of course!

Did you run into any trouble on the way here!? The enemies didn't hurt you, did they!?!?

Sorry we're late, Cleopatra. But, um, can you keep it down? We're not deaf.

Ahem. My apologies.

It's been so long since I was last around that I guess I got a little overexcited.

But enough about that. Master, you have two options here.

Will you watch an excerpt from the tumultuous, yet beautiful days I spent with my two loyal knights, or will you not?

Of course, I have complete faith...

...that you would never be so discourteous as to decline an opportunity to see us when offered!

Ow, my ears! I think we kept her waiting longer than we thought!

Well, Master? What do you say?

...Will you watch the excerpt?

？！

Heh, wonderful. I hope you're ready for a veritable flood of beauty. All right then, let's begin the flashback, shall we?

One moment. I'm just going to get chairs. And snacks. And drinks...

Uh-oh. This is gonna be a long one, isn't it?

Nah, it ain't that. This stuff's why she wound up being known as a model ruler in the first place.

Simulator or not, we've been walking for a hell of a long time. Let's get a bit of rest in while we can, Master.

？！

All right, is everyone comfortable? Then sit back and enjoy!

Your Majesty, we have confirmed visitors from Chaldea. It seems they were caught in the Bounded Field that was put up.

... ...

Ha! Oh, I am so perfect, I predicted all of this! I of course have countermeasures in place!

With the ultimate gatekeeper on watch, my superiority cannot be challenged... Oh, it's too beautiful...

I rule this land appropriately, with tolerance and ruthlessness.

I-if I may, Your Majesty... Will Halloween continue to be banned?

Dunce! How about going to a salon and cleaning up your dull look first!

It's too soon for the common fools to celebrate Halloween!

Holding such a lighthearted festival when the world is in such an unstable state? Pure idiocy!

Endure with patience, and keep love within your heart! Follow in my footsteps!

...But everyone was looking forward to Halloween... My children, too...

Blasphemy! Back talk is punishable by death! But, for the sake of your children, I shall give you a day off. With remuneration!

Lay down your sword and return to your pitiful family at once! That is, if you value your life!

Er, Your Majesty? I, uh, I don't quite follow...

Just go home. It means you have tomorrow off.

...Understood. Then with all due respect, I shall receive your punishment of...paid leave.

Now then, my queen. What would you have us do?

Shall we take them on now so we don't have to worry about them later?

Ho, ho, ho, ho, ho! You fool!

If we did that, it'd be like I was afraid of them for some reason!

I'm sending the knights into town. It'll prevent the citizens from becoming restless.

As for you two... Well, there's no need for you to be deployed.

I know you're planning on hitting on the local girls the second I send you there. Sorry, but things don't always go your way!

...No, that's not what I...

Unbelievable... She sees through our very way of life...

No, Sir Tristan. I really just care about the safety of the town.

...I hear there's a girl with a broken heart at one of the taverns. Apparently her man left her after losing his entire fortune on a bet the other day.

Which tavern is that? You mean that cute girl from Ash Tree Tavern on 3rd?

Ohoho. Maybe you would like to wait in prison instead of your own rooms?

Excuse us. We will remain on standby, Your Majesty.

Then we shall take our leave. Please get some rest, my queen.

I will, of course. Now leave immediately!

... ...

Yes, Your Majesty. ...Tristan?

...?

... ...

... (Snoring)

... ...

...How sad. This intense pain is making me sad.

You know, in a way, that was quite impressive...

Heh...

Hahahaha! What a boring book this is! Though it is killing time, I guess...

You there! The sleeping pig!

Yes ma'am. Sleeping pig Tristan, at your service.

I don't like that music. Play something else.

Then what about this?

Stop it, you're driving me crazy! I can't read my book in peace!

I thought a more upbeat tune would be better...

There are limits to how far you can go! Limits!

And night has fallen. Loud noises are unrefined.

And actually, how did you play that sound with a harp?

Excuse me, my queen.

What do you want? I'm going to bed. If you have something to report, tell me tomorrow

Pharaoh-You-Know-Who has joined the party from Chaldea.

WH...

WHAT DID YOU SAY!?

The pharaoh aligned herself with that stupid, foolish girl who lacks even a shred of intelligence!?

How sad! Our queen's face is twisted in sorrow...

...but even then it is still radiantly beautiful...

With her involved, they will even break through the Lava Zone, not to mention the Glacier Zone...

What shall we do, my queen?

It seems an idiot can exceed one's expectations.

This is difficult... Hmph...

The worried look on Your Majesty's face is beautiful too

I'm trying to think, and there you are getting in the way. Go jump out a window.

Oh... I can fly...!

He really jumped...!

He's using sound waves to fly...

Of course he can fly! Haven't you heard of the Tristan thrush? Anyway, Sir Lances-A-Lot-Of-Married-Women...

Yes, Your Majesty... Wait, what!?

I'm deploying those girls to the Lava Zone. Hold them back no matter the cost.

Wh-what...? But those girls are far too dangerous.

They might get out of control. No, I mean they will! I'm sure of it!

Hahahaha! It'll be fine! Why? Because it's me doing it!

(That worries me...)

Hohohohoho! Well, Master? What did you think!?

？！

Indeed, indeed! Minus the "bit" part, that is!

Remember, that was merely an excerpt from our beautiful daily life!

No, that was definitely a bit.

Yeah...I've seen actual comedies that weren't that funny.

How can this be!?

Does this mean the beautiful, perfect days I spent with my loyal knights were nothing more than...a farce!?

Oh... I see...

Well, sure... Later is totally fine. Just...so long as you do get around to watching it at some point...

Ahem. At any rate, that brings us, at long last, to the climactic battle.

Hear me, O beautiful memories, and come back to life!

Welcome. Thank you for coming.

Hey, it's the knights that ran away.

That depends on how you look at it. Things must be observed from up high...

This is called a "bird's-eye view."

The moment I think I'm going to lose this match, I float up and distance myself...

In other words, by giving up on winning, I avoided defeat. I am a quick-witted man almost to the point of sadness...

That is certainly sad, in every sense of the word...

FWWWUUUUUUUUU...

Master, I have a strange feeling about that black knight. Trying to whistle but not quite getting it and whatnot.

We should focus on taking them out right here... Or perhaps we could just have a nice, long chat...

...Yes. Either way, that black knight is our enemy.

I'm fine. I'm calm right now! Now, let's fight!

？！

(Oh, how terrible... That seemingly gentle girl has the menacing look of an executioner.)

(What did you do to make her hate you so much?)

(I'm sorry... But I don't remember. I think it's some sort of misunderstanding. She'll calm down soon enough.)

(Really...? So it's not dangerous? As in something that would end up involving me?)

(N-no, it's nothing, probably.)

Good to know. Ahem. Her Majesty awaits. This way, please.

We finally get to see her... Puppy, get psyched.

Don't get fooled by her unorthodox attitude and appearance.

Inside there's a nastiness boiling up like a poisonous stew!

Do you know her True Name?

Nope, not at all!

...Well, given that there's a pyramid, it must be someone who has something to do with me.

...Let me double-check. She really is a queen, right?

Because I'll be forced to surrender if it turns out to be some extravagant man with eyes like the sun and a beautiful voice...

Don't worry. She's a woman for sure. Just her true nature is different.

I may be a dragon, but she's a snakea fiercely venomous one at that!

I see you haven't learned anything from your two defeats. How dare you come here, you little lizard!

I fail to understand how you are so pathetic, but I shall praise you for surviving this hell twice!

But you are still merely a girl crazy about Halloween! To someone tempered by the hot desert sand like myself, you

...Am I seeing things? Is there one less of you? ...Wait. You look stronger than before!

Heh, for you to notice that... That's some observation you got there.

Yes, I was born once more through a Palingenesis-like process from the humiliation of having everything taken from me, and my own self-denial...

I am the muscle-based idol that has become a Saber-class Servant, Elisabeth Báthory (Brave)!

That's right. Everyone just kept quiet.

Really? I honestly thought she was a salamander Heroic Spirit...

I'm not a fire lizard! I'm a female hero! A noble heroine blessed by a dragon! Someone who never sings out of tune!

...Hehe. I've actually been thinking about it for a while, just didn't have a chance to say it.

？！

Are you done yet? Eyes back on me!

Ahem. Anyway, you've done well to make your way here, heroes! I shall praise you for your spirit!

Heh. I'm tired of hearing that, but thank you! It's good to be honest!

Indeed. A beauty so great you would lose your words. That is I!

If you understand, then bow to the ground until you bang your head! I'll also allow you to take photos of me, this time only!

？！

Bow before Her Majesty. You're not going to listen to me anyway, but...

Don't just tell them without even meaning it, you dumb dodo! You do nothing but fail!

It's your own incompetence that has allowed them to come this far! As punishment, do a handstand over there!

But don't stop playing the harp!

So sad... So backbreaking. But if Her Majesty commands it, I must obey.

You can actually do it!?

Also...

...

It seems that the current situation is punishment enough for Sir Anonymous here. Very well, I will let him off the hook.

No, I think it's only fair that he gets punished too. Specifically, he has to take off his helmet or show us his face.

...!!!

Umm... Mash...? You're acting kinda scary...

R-really?

Sorry... When I look at that indecisive black knight, my heart becomes as jagged as a Saint Quartz...

So you get irritated. That was a nice way to put it.

I completely understand how you feel, but have your fight elsewhere.

It's a drag, but first I have my duty as a ruler.

Elisabeth Báthory, the fact that you've made it here means you finally understand, yes?

...Yes.

I got too excited over the Halloween concert and neglected my duties as ruler.

...I was too immature to rule over the common pigs.

Yes, it is pure stupidity for those who stand on top to seek something other than being at the top!

To be served you need a reason to be served. Or you need fervor!

That reason may be that you're as beautiful as the heavens. It could be that you wield power, even though you're hideous.

Oh, that stings... I'm as beautiful as the heavens, but I chose the life of an idol...

No, I'm the beautiful one. You're the powerful one.

You said it yourself just a second ago. You're the muscle-based idol, Lowland Gorilla Báthory.

I didn't say that! Only the Báthory part is right!

Now that you mention it, you're right, but who cares about the small things! We're having an important discussion right now!

That's my line! I've never had so much trouble talking to someone before!

Just who are you?!

You act like some sort of model, but what Heroic Spirit are you?!

Isn't it obvious? A queen who rules with beauty! Whose name is synonymous with beauty!

If you asked a hundred people who that queen is, they would all tell you my name!

Yes, my name! My beautiful name is...!

？！

Seriously?! You mean that Paris Fashion Week girl is Queen Cleopatra...!?

Ohohohoho. Even a girl with the bare minimum of nobility like you knows my name.

Then I shall ask again. Can you compete against my beauty?

...This is bad. When it comes to whose Heroic Spirit is more beautiful, she has the upper hand...

No matter how you look at it, my style is more modern, but I can't beat her brand reputation...

？！

What, are you saying my bikini armor is old-school!? It's totally modern! Right!?

Yes, I think that outfit is good. It would make perfect sense in Ancient Egypt.

I know, right? Finally somebody from Egypt gets me!

To me you both look the saNo, never mind.

But, well, in terms of looking dignified, the queen over there is on a different level. Her self-confidence has no limits.

I don't know what to say. My standards of beauty are different from humans' to begin with.

That being said... Hahahahaha!

Master! Master! She has an ulterior motive, and a malicious one at that.

Like she'll bite you or tear you up if you get close. Well, I guess for a demon, that's pretty beautiful!

Hmm... You're not human, huh? Then it makes sense you can't understand me.

And also...

... ...

You...

Quiet, Cleopatra. I simply ended up on this side by chance this time.

I am just a normal Caster, a mage. You just need to live up to your beliefs without wavering.

...Yes.

So, Elisabeth, let me ask you again. Do you intend to compete with my beauty?

Ha...hahahaha! Ohohoho! No way, that would be impossible! That's not even a contest!

If you're a woman, then you know there's nothing more terrifying than being judged based on your beauty!

I am the world-renowned Cleopatra! That contest would only make you lose face...

Huh? I can compete.

...What was that?

It's true that if we're just talking how our bodies look, my physical age might put me at a very slight disadvantage...

In any event, diversification is in right now. There are more standards of beauty now than there were in the past. Espeeeeeecially...

Yes! What about cuteness? I sing, dance, and smile for my pig fans!

That's something only an idol like me can do! And something a queen, who is served on every day, cannot!

In other words, you're not someone that rules over others...

That's right! Your Majesty, I challenge you to a duel! As an idol!

Oh, and of course I'll take up the reins of government. An idol can rule just fine.

How dare you... How dare you... You have no idea how mad your proposal makes me...!

Beauty is born from intelligence. Thus, ruling is carried out through beauty...!

Ruling over the masses merely because you're "cute"... As a queen, I won't allow such happy-go-lucky attitudes!

(I kind of get why Cleopatra is mad...)

(No, Elisabeth is just that selfish. After all, she's an Anti-Hero...someone who's been making mistakes her whole life.)

I'm an idol, and the mistress of Castle Csejte!

Servants get summoned as Lancers, Casters, and so on, right?

Just like Uncle Vlad accepted me for who I am and didn't forgive me

I'm greedy, prideful, and selfish. That's why both versions of me are important!

I won't give up on either one!

So you're not going to give up...on either of you? This is why regional rulers are so annoying...!

Very well, we'll see just how long you can keep that attitude. I'll test you!

...At the end of the day, you're just spouting nonsense! Drown in the beauty of Cleopatra...and die!

...Splendid. This is different than before. A complete defeat...

Ha... Excellent. Truly excellent. A splendid defeat is quite exhilarating.

(I'm not sure about that... I feel like we fought for nothing...!)

...I can't believe it. I didn't think I would lose...

The match is over! You're going to give me back Castle Csejte!

And do something about this pyramid! Actually, don't bring this kind of stuff in here!

...That's...kind of difficult...

What?

...Well, I'm not the one who brought this pyramid here.

Then who dropped this annoying thing on my castle?!

Well...

IT WAS ME!

Who are you!?

Th-that voice...!?

It can't be?! It couldn't, could it!?

If you want to know who I am, I shall answer. I am Ozymandias, the king who rules the sun!!

Hahahaha! Cleopatra! They've completely crushed you!

H-how embarrassing! As someone who holds the name of pharaoh, I have fallen hard...!

I cannot bear any additional embarrassment. Please sever my head!

I don't want you making a bloody mess here! We're going to decorate for Halloween!

Yes. Just as that thin girl over there says. We need to decorate this castle now.

Your blood would ruin the festival. Your punishment will be to sit there and take your shame!

Yes, Your Majesty!

Ozymandias... In other words, Ramesses II! To think someone so important would show up in this weird Singularity...!

It's like an adult showing up to a kid's event, you know!?

Adults have fun, too. Grown-ups enjoy this kind of levity!

But that's why you should not worry. I will not fight.

Cleopatra was ruling over this pyramid, and was defeated by you.

I would have never thought Your Majesty... If you had given me word...I wouldn't have joined their side...

Heh. Don't say that, Nitocris. I told Cleopatra to keep her mouth shut.

I-I'm not displeased at all! My apologies for the slip of tongue!

...Umm, I'm not really following what you guys are saying. Why are people from Egypt here?

HOW DISRESPECTFUL!

Whyaun!?

I can't help it! I don't know if I'm being disrespectful! I don't know what's going on!

That's right. You guys really have no connection to this place whatsoever, so why are you here?

Hmph, No Face King of the Forest.

...Very well. It's no fun just seeing you all rack your brains.

Then I shall ask you. Does anyone know the final moments of this woman, Cleopatra?

... ...

Y-yes.

They say she committed suicide after her husband Antonius, general of the Roman army...

...lost to Augustus in the naval battle of Actium and later died.

That's right. The Ptolemaic Kingdom quickly collapsed and the country disappeared.

Leaving her as the last pharaoh.

... ...

And thus, she has avoided wishing for anything, and refused to be summoned as a Servant until now.

...What do you mean?

She has a personal desire.

And it's something that won't come true unless she participates in a Holy Grail War as a Servant.

But it's not a wish as a pharaoh. It's a selfish desire you could find anywhere on the streets.

She feels so responsible for the destruction of her country that she has locked it away in her heart.

Thinking that someone that has done what she did should not be allowed to have a wish!

But I don't think it's something to be suffering over for a thousand or so years, so I gave her an opportunity.

To rule this upside-down pyramid as queen...

...Until Halloween ends.

And had she done that, I would have granted her wish with the Holy Grail I was given.

A Holy Grail...!?

And then you lost. You have no objections. Right, Cleopatra?

...Correct.

I realized that it's wrong for someone like me to hope for something.

I see, and so you're going to suppress that wish and turn your back on it for the rest of eternity, then!?

That is the least I can do to atone for destroying my country.

... ...

... ...

... ...

...Heh.

?

Hahahahaha! Hahahahahahaha!! That's your answer!?

Ridiculous! Anubis would be holding his belly laughing, I imagine! Did you hear that, thin girl?!

I told you to call me Elisabeth! Or if you want to be more friendly, Elly is also good!

Huh. I see. In that case, Elly, or whatever, if you have something to say, you should say it now!

I appreciate that ridiculous arrogance of yours!

Did you just say Elly!?

Then I'll say it.

Umm... You know, Cleopatra... You're an...

IDIOT!

Aren't you?

What...!?

Didn't I tell you? That I would be both an idol and a ruler!?

You can be a ph-pharaoh? and have a personal desire at the same time!

Take part in a bunch of Holy Grail Wars, and do your best to get it granted!

Why can't you do the things that I can do?

You can do it right? I bet you could do it while you dance gracefully even.

That's...!

I don't want to say this, but...

I got all excited about being an idol, I forgot about Halloween, so you might have ruled a bit...better, maybe.

You can have your own personal desires!

...Are you sure... I don't know if I can

It's fine! You think so too, right Puppy?

Humanity's final Master, Fujimaru! You look like you want to say something.

It's fine! Finish her off! Don't hold back and tell her!

Selfish...

...You're right. I've wanted to be, this entire time.

Be...myself... You're right.

That's what I've been trying to be this whole time, but...

At some point, all I could think about was being a pharaoh...

？！

Sun King, Ozymandias. Incarnation of Horus, Queen Nitocris.

Please forgive me. From this day forth, I will accept myself for who I am, and not just be a pharaoh.

I forgive you. Become the strength needed for those that follow you. Act like the name you have carved into history.

I too grant forgiveness. Have the name of Cleopatra shine brightly, arrogantly, and proudly!

...Fujimaru.

My name is Cleopatra VII. A former pharaoh.

From this day forward, I will answer the summons as a Heroic Spirit and protect human history.

When that happens, I will use this beautiful face, this voice, this body to be an Assassin class Servant.

In other words... My glory is wasted on you. Give it up and resign yourself to it!

？！

...

Th-that was a good answer, Fujimaru! You've been wonderful this far. Now you just need to rest!

All right. Everything's good now!

Mhh. So is everything done here? (Crunch, crunch)

Ibaraki-Douji... Slow down when you eat. There will be plenty of candy once Halloween begins.

I'm not eating. I'm not eating any candy.

...So what was that selfish wish, anyway?

Th-that...

I've never heard of your wish. Would you tell us, if you don't mind?

Yes, if that's what you want, Your Majesty. My wish... Well, I have several, but...

I'd like to see the man I loved one more time. I don't really want to get back together with him, but...

I still remember...

The day he whispered sweet nothings into my ear while holding me in his slender but strong arms...

His chiseled features, his cheek bones ever so tempting... And he was so sincere...

Yes... I'd like to see my Caesar again...!

... ...

... ...

... ...

... ...

... ...

... ...

... ...

... ...

What happened? Has the last boss made their appearance?

？！

Master...

This is bad. She's talking about THAT Caesar, right?

Yes, Caesar, one of the three least trustworthy Servants in Chaldea, and almost always the mastermind behind everything.

...By the way, this is what Chaldea's Caesar looks like.

...!

Gahgh!?

...They both passed out.

Oh no. It looks like King Ozymandias is holding his stomach and trying to hold back his laughter...

Yeah, it's quite a shock to see Caesar for the first time...

？！

...I don't think we should... We would be destroying her dream...

...But we should tell her someday.

How sad... People change... They say aging isn't ugly, but...

...This goes beyond aging... Please forget this song...

This is definitely a severe case of stress eating... Oh, how sad...

I have only seen this level of stress in Agravain...

Fou...

You look like you're having fun over there! Let me join in too!

And why are the great pharaohs collapsed on the floor like they had a sudden stomachache or something!?

H-hold on a second!

Huh? What's wrong? Did you call me? Want me to answer?

W-wait. Hold on! Don't just Rayshift without my permi

Doctor? Doctor...!?

H-he really did Rayshift...!

This is bad! That means...!

VENI!

...! This voice...!

Oh... He really did come...

VIDI!

My Caesar...!? To think I can meet you again at last!

I-I need a mirror. Does anyone have a mirror!?

Is my makeup running? We were just fighting after all! Is it okay? Is it okay!?

Now all I have to do is show myself!

My Cae

IT IS I!

WHAT!?

Hahaha. It's been a while, Cleopatra. Hmm? I guess this is the first time meeting each other as Servants.

... ...

... ...

...(THUD)

Yeah, I thought so...

I guess she couldn't accept reality and escaped it by fainting...

Humans are frail beings. They should just be positive as long as they have something to strive for.

Oh, a Holy Grail fragment came out. I'm going to collect it.

...Uuugh... Round... I saw something round... Rolling... Rolling around... Uuuuuugh...

...I can't tell her to leave with the pyramid right now...

Let's have her rest here until her emotional scars heal.

Once Halloween starts, she might calm down a little bit too.

Yes, let's all have a very fun Halloween for her sake too!

Very well! So who should I trickI mean, persuade?

I haven't made much of an appearance lately! My wit is so sharp right now, it's on par with a Lancer!

You should stay away until Cleopatra's emotional scars heal...

Fou...

Hehehe. Ahh, that does bring back memories.

You know that in all this time, Lord Caesar still has yet to make ANY progress on his diet!?

In fact, if anything, I've come to appreciate his new plump form as simply having more to love.

Truly, the depths of the abyss of beauty are fathomless!

For I am...Cleopitter-pattra!

(Sounds like Caesar's endless fast-talking might've finally worn her down.)

(Never mind that. What's she mean by "Cleopitter-pattra"?)

And that concludes the story of Chaldea's second Halloween.

Well, Master? Do you remember anything?

？！

Hm? Is something wrong?

？！

I-I see. Well, I'm glad you're staying positive. Yes.

All right, next up is the last Halloween.

Since you don't remember it, Puppy, I should warn you about something up front.

Are you sitting down? Okay, for the next Halloween, this pyramid...

...becomes the foundation for Himeji Castle.

？！

Yup. Himeji Castle. As in, the big one from Japan.

It's gonna be showing up a lot from here on, so try to be ready for it, Master!

？！

Huh? That's weird. She should have shown up by no

Gaah! What's that noise!?

There you are, Fujimaru. Perhaps more appropriately, my pilot candidate.

This hardly need be said, but I will say it anyway.

My name is Magus Aegis Elisabeth Channel...

Aka Mecha Eli-chan.

And I am Magus Aegis Elisabeth Channel Mk. II.

There's no need to call me Mecha Eli-chan. Just "Mk. II" will do.

We'll be your guides for the next Halloween.

Now, take our hands, Pilot Candidate. It's time to fly.

？！

Of course.

...They just blasted off at top speed, didn't they...

Well, I can't really be surprised. They're modeled after me.

Man, that was frigging exhausting.

By the way, who's taking over for you, Robin Hood?

Oh, that?

That'd be the chintzy but chivalrous vigilante who was unfortunate enough to get dragged along on the third Halloween.