Chapter 13: Chapter 10, The Wild Hunt.
Several weeks had passed since Shirou's date with Gray.
At this moment, Shirou was in the world of dreams, he was having what is known as a lucid dream, in short, he knew that he was inside a dream; but… Was it really a dream? No, probably not, how did you know? Well, he had never dreamed of his past before the flames. Probably, they were memories, and not his, but hers...
Shirou was in a park in a residential area; surely the same place where he lived before the flames consumed everything. And I was sure of this because, here he was, or rather, a younger version of him...
A young Shirou was playing in that park, the boy had a bandage on his face and was full of dirt, in his hands was a baseball bat, this surprised the older Shirou, because he never felt a particular fondness for sports. A few meters away was a girl, she had black hair, combed down, it covered one of her eyes. Her visible eye was blue, and she had a slight smile on her face.
"Are you ready, Shirou!?" said the girl with a baseball in her hand.
His younger version smiled. Throw it at me with all your might, Tachi!
That name caused a terrible pain in his chest. T-Tachi, no…Tachie.
That girl was one of his neighbors, the one he had known for a long time, if the clichés of the manga that Caules had lent him were used, she would be something like his childhood friend. And, due to the accident, he had forgotten her until now...
The teenager watched as his younger version played baseball with the girl. These dreams had started to show since her last encounter with Manaka and, speaking of the King of Rome, there she was, a younger version of the current Manaka had entered the park. The young girl was a bit older than Shirou and her friend, she was holding the hand of a girl the same age as her younger self. The blonde let the brunette run to play with the rest of the children...
Pamp!
A loud bang was heard and his younger version crashed to the ground. Apparently little Shirou was distracted by the entrance of the three people and didn't see when the ball, which had been thrown by Tachie, hit him on the head making him fall to the ground.
"Shirou!?" Tachie yelled as he walked up to his younger self's side. You are well!?
Shirou nodded slightly. Y-Yes.
-What are you talking about? You have a bump forming! Concerned, Tachie said. I-I'll go get your parents, wait for me here.
Her friend went somewhere else...
His current version couldn't blame him, Manaka looked like a porcelain doll and that would amaze any child; but, what should have caught the boy's attention the most, must have been Manaka's companion. She was a dark-skinned woman wearing a white dress, and she had a kind of attractiveness that the boy couldn't describe, her hair and eyes were violet. The strange girl stood several meters away from any form of life while looking at everything around her with a surprised expression. The only person she seemed to get close to easily was Manaka.
Maybe the young Shirou couldn't know it, but his adolescent version could assure that this woman was dangerous, absurdly dangerous. And, even knowing this, he couldn't help but watch as his younger version went straight to talk to both girls. For a moment, he looked puzzled at the situation, the flamboyant woman lingering behind while the two children seemed to be conversing. And, apparently, it was for a good reason, because Manaka barely answered. It seems that his thinking about Manaka being a doll was much closer to reality than he believed. However, the red-haired young man kept trying to have a conversation with the young blonde.
Suddenly, the world began to whiten, the dream began to disappear. The last thing the teenager could see was, at first, his futile attempt to relate to Manaka.
The boy opened his eyes, there he could see little Fou licking his cheek, he usually accompanied Altrouge; but, most of the time, he slept in the apartment to avoid both unwanted attention and to recharge energy and maintain it more easily. Apparently, Fou used up quite a bit of energy when using his true form. In a normal world, getting her back wouldn't be a problem; but, with the current world situation, recovering that energy cost more than expected. Recharging his energy was not something that was going to drain the life of the world, far from it, since it would take several decades for the world to die completely, even if Fou abused his power; however, like the beast of Gaia, Fou tried to take care of his father as much as possible.
"Thank you, Fou...
The little animal was in charge of waking him up on those days when fatigue overcame him. The young man turned his gaze to the person next to him, her face was inches from his, he blushed when he saw her. She may constantly annoy him; but those jokes work for an obvious reason, aside from his inexperience with women. He actually finds Altrouge very attractive, to say otherwise would be lying to himself.
Clearing his mind of thoughts that would get him into trouble, he got up and set about making breakfast.
But it wasn't just that, he could tell that many girls he knew were attractive in his eyes, some had different attractions, like Luvia and Rin; but that was not the important thing. There were relationships that he could easily define, such as his friendship with Ayaka, as well as his friendship and alliance with Luvia, however, there were slightly more complicated relationships, such as his relationship with Rin. But, deep down , he could come up with an answer, even if it cost him, he admired his diligence, as well as sometimes, his stubbornness. At least, for now, admiration was mostly what he felt for her...
Lastly, there were relationships that I just couldn't put into words. His relationship with Gray, with Altrouge, and... in a sense, with Manaka, were just too complicated to define.
His relationship with Gray was strange from the beginning, this due to the bond created between them thanks to Avalon and, although at present he knew why he felt that strange feeling of comfort around the girl, the knowledge of how and why the relic worked , did not make it easier to understand their relationship. Ever since he discovered that his bond was a consequence of Avalon, the redhead had been somewhat afraid that, if the sheath was not there, the relationship between him and the gravedigger would disappear, however, the young man believed that, at this point, with or without the pod, their relationship would hold. He wouldn't deny that proving this was one of the reasons he offered to return Avalon to her. But that no longer mattered, something changed that day after they both spoke on the Ferris wheel, and not only for him, Well, Gray also acted differently when he was together with the redhead, and even this wasn't something that Shirou had noticed on his own, because Svin and the professor had mentioned it too... Another feeling began to grow inside him, was it his desire to protect Gray that he had together with Svin? Or was it something else? He didn't know, he had his theories; but at present it was too soon to risk jumping to a conclusion. In short, only time will define his relationship with the girl. but at present it was too soon to risk jumping to a conclusion. In short, only time will define his relationship with the girl. but at present it was too soon to risk jumping to a conclusion. In short, only time will define his relationship with the girl.
On the other hand, his relationship with Altrouge was just as complicated, maybe more so. Now he knew that his survival was not as simple as simple luck, Altrouge was desperate when she met him. It was his stubbornness, as well as his desire to create a sword that could release fate, the lifeline that the Princess had clung to. At first it was just that, a mutual dependency, but it was logical that their relationship would evolve over time. The Princess didn't need to help him deal with the things she had discovered about Kiritsugu, she didn't need him to read the environment, and it wasn't a priority for her to help him with the problems of his past; but still he did. Now that he thought about it, it was something similar to what Rin had done for him, however, there was a difference, the two of them shared a secret, one in plain sight. It was obvious that the world was dying, but whether it was due to political, interest, or other struggles, that nobody seemed to do anything other than avoid the problem in one way or another, both normal people and magi were equal in this regard. That said, his secret was simple; but unthinkable based on current logic, they would do something, they would find a way to heal the world, they would deal with the hopelessness that haunted the living, they would stand against the Last Ones, and rise against the threshold star, and do it. they would do together. That secret made them confidants, and just as she had cared for him and supported him, Shirou wanted to do the same, he wanted to be there for her and support her when she needed him, and that caused a deeper emotion to begin to surface. So,
Finally, Manaka, he was clear about what he felt for the girl: fear, or at least he thought so. Since he had met her for the first time, he had feared her, she was the manifestation of that hell that accompanied him. It may be that, with time and the change in his appearance, his fear had progressively diminished; yet, even so, he knew there were things she was keeping from him, and above all, she was absurdly dangerous. However, the boy had realized something, perhaps a large part of him had died in the fire; but, apparently, a small part did survive. His memories may have died, his soul may have been left mostly empty; however, the part of his soul that protected his feelings somehow survived. The pain that speared right into his heart as he watched his childhood friend play with him, the pain of hearing his name again… It was proof of that. And that didn't apply only to her, but also to Manaka. His logic, his instinct, and basically everything he had learned in the last few years told him to stay away from the girl; but, those feelings that hadn't been consumed by the flames, told him that she was his friend, just like Tachie... Because of this clash between logic and feelings, he couldn't define their relationship either.
"Hmn... That smells good..." Altrouge woke up to the smell of food.
"Breakfast will be ready in a few minutes."
This was the usual for the two of them.
"We'd better have breakfast soon and head for the station...
Altrouge nodded. Marbury's Workshop, right?
-Yes. Shirou served the breakfast plates while Altrouge sat down at the table. Professor Wills of the faculty of spiritual evocation asked the professor for help in investigating his late father's workshop.
"There were multiple murders the last time the workshop was active, weren't there?"
Shirou nodded. Among the dead is the father of Professor Wills. Perhaps because of this large number of murders and, as it was a request from an authority in the Faculty of Spiritual Evocation, the professor decided to ask several of us for help...
"Who will come?"
"In addition to us, and along with the professor and Gray, they will also come: his sister, as well as Caules and Sieg.
"Why did you ask us for help?" And why those other two?
—Hmn… I think, in our case, it's because the professor saw Neocaliburn, since I had to use it against Gurdoa. He asked me about it, and what I told him was the same as what I told Rin. This, being a holy sword, has strong effects on evil spirits, so that must be why he asked for our help. As for Caules, even if his talent lies in Bio-Electric sorcery, his family is known for Spirit Evocation, so he must have some talent in that area.
-I see…
Saying that, they both prepared to leave. After grabbing their things, they both left the apartment, along with Fou, who had climbed on the Princess's shoulder.
After several minutes, they arrived at the London train station.
There were those already mentioned, along with another man.
He was a tall man of similar height to Lord El-Melloi II, his hair was blond and his eyes were amber in color. Lastly, he wore a white formal suit.
"Professor, we're here..." the boy said.
The young Lord nodded. Okay, with this, we can go...
They all greeted each other and, after a few minutes, they got on the train.
Within this, the group divided into smaller groups. Although they were all so close together that they could easily hear each other.
"Lord…" Wills spoke.
"Is something wrong, Wills?" asked the young Lord.
He nodded. There is something I must inform you about. The main branch of the Codrington family, informed Legislation...
Waver, who was drinking tea, ended up choking on its contents. W-what? Is legislation involved?
"Oh…" Reines smiled. If the Legislation gets involved and judges against you, then you could lose ownership of the shop, right?
Wills nodded. That's how it is. If that happens, the main family will get the right to the workshop...
The young Lord covered his face with one of his hands. It had to be Legislation...
"Is there something wrong with Legislation?" Altrouge asked Shirou.
"They're supposed to be the keepers of our world's secret." Luvia once told me that the teacher had clashes with one or another member.
"I hope this trip won't be too hectic," Caules said.
Shirou smiled awkwardly. I would like to say that there will be no problem; but... it's unlikely.
"Do you think something bad will happen?" Sieg asked.
"Well, the last few times I've helped the professor, I ended up facing something dangerous every time...
After a while, the group reached their destination and left the train station. Finally, they started their way to the Marbury workshop.
"L-Lady Reines, are you alright?" Gray asked worriedly.
"Y-Yes, I just need to…" Reines said as she covered her eyes in pain.
"Here, my Lady," Trimmau said, a mystical code from Reines, handing her a few drops of eye drops.
She was made of mercury and resembled a maid in an old maid uniform. Like a mystic code, her intelligence was limited to the actions that a servant should do.
"A mystic eye?" Wills asked.
Waver nodded. Yes, Reines's mystical eyes change color and turn red when they come into contact with magical energy. The ley lines must be more unstable than we thought.
"Master, that's…" Shirou whispered.
Waver looked in the same direction as the redhead. It was a rune, and not exactly a modern one. "I see…". Then, the young Lord looked at the sky, it was clouding over. The wind element moves violently, it looks like it's going to rain, we'd better hurry...
After several minutes, the group reached the workshop...
"Ahhh… Oh God…" Waver said as he bent over trying to catch his breath after running for several minutes. I didn't think I would have to run so much.
Caules was almost as tired as Waver, Reines and Sieg were much less tired than the previous two, and Gray, Altrouge, Shirou, as well as Wills, were not tired at all.
Gray was holding Lord El-Melloi II, who seemed gasping for air.
"I think you need to get some exercise, dear brother," Reines sneered. You are a very weak young man...
Waver would have answered him if he had had air in his lungs.
"So you're here at last," said a voice from the second floor. After saying those words a snake appeared out of nowhere and wrapped itself around Wills, turning into some sort of bandage and making him fall to the ground.
That alone was enough for Trimmau to stand in front of Reines and transform his hands into sledgehammers and Gray transform Add into his scythe form. Shirou just looked at the voice, well, no assassin would give a clue to his location in such a stupid way. Altrouge didn't prepare, because, well, it was Altrouge. Caules and Sieg did not react as they were not used to being attacked by surprise.
However, neither moved, as the young Lord stopped them. He had a frown on his face, as if he knew the origin of that voice.
From the second floor a woman emerged.
She was a fair-skinned woman with dark hair and lighter eyes of a similar color. He wore glasses and, the most fascinating thing about his appearance, was that he was wearing a black Japanese kimono with purple trim.
"I didn't know you were here, Miss Adashino."
The woman smiled faintly. Well, as you well know Lord, it is the duty of Legislation to study any case that endangers the secrecy of our world. Adashino came down the stairs. And the conclusion of this investigation…
-Do not tell me…!
She smiled-. Yes that's how it is. We have concluded that, Wills Pelham Codrington, you are the murderer of Mr. Trevor.
Wills managed to undo the bandages from his mouth. B-But? W-Why?
"Shut up, parricide!" a woman yelled.
The woman was wearing a black suit. She had a dark complexion, light eyes and dark reddish hair.
"W-Waletta!? Wills asked in surprise and concern.
-She is…? asked the young Lord.
—Waletta Codrington, she is a member of the main branch of the Codrington family, they sent her as a witness…
"What do you mean by the result of the investigation?" asked the young Lord.
"Well, you see...
From there, the conversation was about how they had not been able to invoke the spirit of Mr. Trevor, how Wills had been in the workshop the day of the accident that caused several deaths, and how this was more than enough evidence to judge Wills as guilty. Waver argued that all of this information was circumstantial, and that the evocation teacher could not be prosecuted solely on the basis of these facts. Adashino replied that it was not only due to that, but that they had erased the remains of the spirit of Mr. Trevor and all the other workers, and that only a necromancer, such as Wills, could achieve. Wills, for his part, admitted trying to evoke the remains of his father's spirit; but he also admitted that he had failed. Lord El-Melloi alleged that, due to the storm that had broken out and, furthermore, with the lightning that was falling, which were also the main cause of death in the other murders, he was allowed to investigate until it cleared up. Reines also contributed by saying that the Spiritual Evocation Department had given them permission to investigate the case. So, in the end, they were allowed to investigate until the storm was over...
Thus, the group divided into three: Lord El-Melloi II and Wills went to the library, since Wills wanted to teach the young Lord something. And the rest of the groups went to look for clues in other rooms...
With the Lord...
Wills was handing the young lord some books for him to examine.
"Thanks." Waver was reading about the workings of the Marbury shop. Waletta, what relationship do you have with her?
Wills gave an awkward smile. We were childhood friends; but, for certain reasons, now she hates me…
Waver looked at him incredulously. Don't tell me that you, you refused to marry her…?
Wills smiled. Good deduction, detective.
"Uhh..." Waver sighed. If you get prosecuted for that... she'll inherit the workshop, right?
Wills agreed.
Waver sighed again. Like out of a painting. typical of her...
"And what is your relationship with Miss Adashino?"
"She's the person I argue with the most in Legislation." After reviewing the books, the Lord turned to the evocation teacher. Well, what do you want to teach me?
"Wait a minute." Suddenly, Wills's eyes changed color to violet with a purple outline. Well, it's here...
-Here…?
"Excuse me…" Wills sprinkled the Lord with a bluish powder.
After finishing sprinkling the powder, he was able to see her. Is that… a fairy?
Sure enough, a woman with pointed ears, long light reddish hair, fair complexion, and slightly blue eyes appeared in front of the two men. She wore a green dress adorned with flowers.
She tried to say something, but was gone before they could hear her words.
"Disappeared…" Waver turned to the evocation teacher. Do you have a fairy eye?
Wills nodded. It is not a very powerful mystic eye; but I've had it for as long as I have memory use. Every time she shows up, she tries to tell me something, and then someone dies. I just want to know what you're trying to tell me.
"Lightning, assassinations, fairies, ancient runes... Maybe... The Wild Hunt?"
That said, both the Lord and the professor continued to investigate the books, maybe there would be something about that in them...
With Reines and Gray…
"Lady Raines, I don't think we should search the workshop without permission...
Reines was scanning the entire room. Hmn… This magic power… —Reines squeezed a gem that was decorating a fireplace, it sank, and with that, she revealed a secret passage that led into the depths. She smiled-. A secret passageway? This gets interesting...
"L-Lady Reines, we shouldn't go without informing Master!
"Don't worry, Gray, my philosophy is to do what other people don't want to do." Also, if we inform my brother, Adashino will also find out. Let's investigate first.
Saying this, Reines entered the passageway followed by Trimmau. Gray sighed and followed closely behind her.
With the other four...
Shirou, Altrouge, Caules and Sieg were walking through the corridors of the mansion, they were following Fou, who seemed to be following a trail.
"I'm surprised that Fou is able to follow any trail in this place," Shirou said.
-What are you talking about? asked the Princess.
"By replacing my sense of smell, I can smell magical energy. But, in this place, the mana saturation is so high that I'm not able to distinguish anything...
"Is it like Lady Reines's eyes?" Caules asked.
Shirou nodded. Similary...
"The lightning is increasing…" Sieg said as he watched the storm through a window.
"This isn't normal…" Altrouge spoke up.
"It was!"
"Is something wrong, Fu? asked its owner.
-Crazy! ¡Fouuu!
The little dog barked at the workshop door. They had turned this around...
-What? Caules exclaimed.
"That's…" the Princess spoke.
-You…? Shirou asked.
Sieg just looked at her strangely.
What they had in front of them was a woman, she had whitish skin with natural bone armor of a bluish color, silver hair and, the most impressive, there were two pairs of faerie wings on her back. She was also wearing a beautiful teal colored dress.
"We meet again, young man…" the fairy spoke.
"Do you know her?" asked the Princess.
Shirou nodded. I met her almost half a year ago...
The fairy looked at his belt, where he carried Neocaliburn, she smiled. I'm glad you were able to heal our pain and silence our requiem.
He held the sword and smiled too.
However, his gaze quickly changed to one that showed seriousness. However, the matter that has brought us together again is quite worrying.
-What are you talking about?
KRAAKABOOM!
A huge bolt of lightning fell from the sky and thunder echoed throughout the area.
"They're coming…" Then the fairy turned to the redhead. You must come with me...
-Hey? Where?
-We run out of time. If you don't accompany me, the people inside this workshop will be in danger…" Saying that, the fairy opened the door of the workshop. The cold, the wind, and the rain entered with force inside it. After this, she went out into the storm.
"Rouge, what do you think we should do?"
Altrouge was thoughtful for a moment. Fairies are a way for the planet to show its will, "this includes me as well to some extent, as I am half true ancestor, and these are qualified as great fairies." The Princess informed the boy through her contract. Ignoring his words would not be wise.
Shirou nodded. Caules, can you and Sieg stay here?
"Wait, if spirits are involved, maybe I can be of use! said the chestnut.
Shirou thought about it for a few moments, he didn't want to bring Caules to a possibly very dangerous place; but, it wasn't a secret for him that his friend didn't feel especially useful in the last few days. Knowing that rejecting him would do nothing more than increase that feeling, he agreed. Fine, but stay behind Rouge and me. You're not the type to fight on the front lines...
Caules agreed.
"Are you coming too, Sieg?"
The homunculus nodded.
"Okay, let's go…
With that said, the group of four left the workshop and followed the fairy. With the storm against them, they walked until they reached an entrance in a small rise of land.
The fairy paused for a moment in front of the entrance. Come on, who will be your ally, awaits you inside.
They looked at each other strangely, but followed the fairy. What awaited them after entering the depths of the earth, was a huge labyrinth of underground tunnels...
With Gray and Reines…
The girls had been walking for several minutes…
"Lady Reines, this environment is familiar to me…
Princess El-Melloi looked at the young gravedigger strangely. What are you talking about?
"As a grave keeper I can tell, this place is… a graveyard.
-I see. This should be the core of the workshop…
Saying this, both of them continued walking.
—Ouch! Reines's eyes turned red again.
"Lady Reines, are you all right?"
—Y-Yes. The eye drops lost their effect faster than usual.
"Are you sure you want to continue?"
Reines nodded.
The three continued walking, in the tunnels they found several skulls. They planned to go a little deeper; but…
"Watch out, Grey!
Reines had staggered into a trap within the tunnels and Gray had pushed her away from a rock that had nearly crushed them both. However, the collapse did not stop, Trimmau transformed to protect Reines and a second rock was about to fall on Gray...
¡Bam!
A bullet was fired at the stone, splitting it in two.
The dust scattered, and out of it emerged a mercenary, a necromancer: Kairi Sisigou. They are fine?
-You are…?
He smiled as he reloaded his pistol. It seems that they consider them thieves —said Kairi while shooting towards some corpse spirits that flew towards them.
"They're not entirely wrong, AUGHH! Reines yelled as his eye became so hot that fire began to emanate from it.
Seeing the state of Reines and the spirits, Kairi said. Hell, they seem to be getting more and more worked up. I know a shortcut to the exit, but it will be a bumpy road. Can follow me?
Gray saw Reines's state and then turned to the necromancer, she nodded. Yes.
Saying this, the group fled from the tunnels.
With Shirou's group, Altrouge, Caules, and Sieg...
They had walked for several minutes.
"These tunnels are really long…" Caules said.
The fairy nodded. Yes, they reach the mountains.
Suddenly, there was a tremor, and that made Caules stumble and...
Bum! Crashhh!
-Watch out!
A few small and consecutive explosions caused a collapse inside the cave, as well as the separation of the group in three different paths...
"Fu, are you alright?" Altrouge asked.
"Fou…" the little boy said, nodding.
Both had separated from the rest of the group. In front of her, was a huge amount of earth and rocks.
"Okay, let's tear this 'wall' to pieces." Altrouge prepared to destroy the rocks that had emerged from the explosion. Releasing some of her first stage power, she transformed her hands into claws. With a quick movement, she hit the rocks with great force; however, the moment his fist impacted against them, the earth trembled, threatening a second collapse.
"Hell, it looks like we won't be able to meet up with the rest of the group like this... We'll have to find our way back." Are you ready Foo?
—…
The sound of hooves was heard in the great tunnel...
"Were you?"
The princess looked back and saw Fou growling at some sort of shadow, a humanoid shadow riding a horse.
Altrouge smiled. Lightning bolts, fairies, and now horsemen. So the wild hunt...
The shadow multiplied, filling the entire tunnel.
She readied her claws. This will be fun…
The Twilight Princess advanced against the cavalcade of wraiths and undead.
With Caules and Sieg…
The two had been isolated from the rest of the group. They had tried to cross the rocks, but it was useless, without being able to do anything else, Sieg and Caules were forced to go back the way they had come; but…
As the duo walked through the tunnel...
"We must go quickly and tell the professor, maybe with the help of the others we can move the rocks," Caules said.
"Yes…" Sieg replied. Caules!
Sieg pushed Caules away before he was struck by lightning.
-What the hell!? Caules wondered as he watched whatever it was that had attacked them.
Sieg drew his sword.
¡GRRRR!
What the two observed was a large hound with blackish skin, it radiated lilac or violet lightning.
-What's that? Sieg asked worriedly.
—I-I think it's a Black Dog. A spectral hound...
"What do we do, Caules!?" Can we deal with him!?
But before the young magus could reply, the Black Dog attacked.
¡WRRRAAAA!
With great speed, the hound lunged at Sieg, who was the one with the weapon.
However, Sieg was a homunculus, since before he was born he had been "programmed" to be able to use sorcery. In his case, he could use the sorcery Logical Path: Open, which allowed him to "transform", metaphorically speaking, whatever his magical power touched, so that it would achieve the desired result with the least amount of effort required. He was also capable of using other basic sorceries, such as: Suggestion and Healing Sorcery. Furthermore, Shirou had taught him basic Reinforcement sorcery so that he could strengthen his sword.
And the latter was what Sieg did, reinforcing his sword, he deflected the Black Dog's attack.
¡WRRRAAAA!
The hound attacked him three times; but Sieg with effort managed to stop the constant tackling and biting.
ZzZzZzZzZzZz
Seeing that his physical attacks had no effect at all, the spectral hound charged up electricity…
¡WRRRAAAA!
The Black Dog roared and electricity shot at Sieg. However, Caules ran in front of the young homunculus taking the attack for him.
—Stems!
The current hit the young man enveloping him in his entirety. However, it didn't scorch him, it engulfed him for a few seconds and then was directed into a cylindrical silver-colored container. This had two green stripes and a large purple stripe, it was a mystical code created for Caules after the teacher had informed him that most of his potential lay in bioelectric magic. It could, through manual contact, adjust bioelectric currents to increase his or someone else's healing abilities, and even activate a person's Od, moreover, being a battery, it could also both store electricity and release it. .
Caules redirected the electrical current and stored it in his battery.
"Sieg, I have an idea, can you help me?"
Sieg smiled slightly as he nodded. Yes. What do you need me to do?
¡GRRRR!
The hound glared at the duo menacingly, looking for any opportunity to attack them.
"I need you to hold it for a moment. Physical attacks won't do much damage; but we should be able to hold it for a few moments…
Sieg nodded and braced himself for the dog's next attack, Caules, for his part, retreated and bided his time.
¡WRRRAAAA!
Once again the dog attacked the two boys, this time, Sieg did not deflect it with his sword, using his sorcery, Logical Path: Open, he "turned" the palm of his hand into the barrel of a gun and, with a punch, "fired" a bullet from said weapon. His fist slammed into the Black Dog, knocking it back, and before the dog got up, Sieg plunged his sword into the wraith's belly, preventing it from getting up.
Being a specter, physical attacks would not cause great damage, and only with a mystical code or sorcery specialized in dealing with spirits could it be easily defeated; but at least he could hold it.
ZzZzZzZzZzZz
The hound charged up electricity and emanated it all over his body trying to hit Sieg; however, he turned his body into a lightning rod, transmitting the electricity to the ground and preventing it from harming him.
Caules took advantage of this moment, he cut his finger and placed himself next to the dog. He lashed out trying to free himself, but Sieg kept him attached to the ground, with his blood the young magus traced a magic circle with several different symbols, when this was complete, Caules began to recite...
"Let flesh and lightning be the essence;
Stones and the archduke of the pacts as foundations;
It allows a wall to rise against the wind that is about to fall;
The cardinal doors close;
Let the road divided into three reach the kingdom from the crown that rotates;
Let it be declared now; your flesh will be under my service, and my destiny will be under your claws and fangs;
Answer, if you are willing to obey this will and this truth;
An oath will be taken here;
I will obtain all the virtues of all Heaven…!;
I will have dominion over all the evils of Hell!
Now, our destinies are united, come to me from the circle of balance!"
The hound growled and snarled and squirmed, its claws reaching for the magus; but as Caules' song progressed, his will was subdued. This chant was normally used to summon or contract with spirits, and was slightly modified according to the spirit with which one wanted to contract.
Once Caules finished singing, the Black Dog stopped resisting.
The young magus looked at the homunculus. Sieg, release him please. It shouldn't attack us anymore.
Nodding, Sieg drew his sword from the wraith's belly.
The hound got up and, as if nothing had happened, he sat down like a tame dog.
Caules smiled. Now he will be my familiar, he will be on our side from now on.
Sieg looked at the young magus, Caules had a smile on his face; but he had lived long enough with the young Yggdmillennia to know that he was barely holding himself back from shrieking with joy. Having been able to help the person who helped save his life, Sieg couldn't help but feel happy too.
But this was short-lived. Wait, we have to hurry!
-Hey? Sieg looked at him confused.
"The Black Dogs don't act alone, they come in packs!"
This surprised the homunculus. The workshop!
Caules nodded, raising his primitive battery, he said. Enters.
Given the order, the hound transformed his entire being into electricity and impregnated the Primitive Battery, staying inside it.
-Let's go.
Sieg nodded.
But before they left the site, Caules paused for a moment. sieg…
-Yes? asked the confused boy.
"Thank you," the magus said, smiling.
The homunculus nodded smiling and the two boys walked out of the tunnel and into the storm.
In the workshop…
The young Lord was worried, all his students and his sister had disappeared from one moment to another, when he was thinking of going out to look for them, the workshop door opened.
He watched as three people entered, his apprentice, his sister, who was being carried by Trimmau, and a man.
—Reigns! The Lord exclaimed in surprise.
"Don't worry, he just passed out.
Waver walked over to Wills and asked. Who are you?
—Kairi Sisigou, mercenary and necromancer, born in Japan. He takes any dirty job… In Legislation, he's quite famous," Adashino said walking down the stairs to the second floor.
Kairi looked at her and said. If I remember correctly, I still have a seat in the Clock Tower…
—And what did this celebrity come for? ElMelloi asked.
"Mr. Sisigou was a friend of my father's," Wills answered.
I came to offer my condolences...
"Hmn, in that case, why did you head to the necropolis, instead of heading straight here? Adashino asked.
—The tunnels reach the foot of the mountain, crossing them is the best way to come without having to face the storm.
Wills agreed.
"I see," Adashino said.
"Well, in this storm, boy, can I use the usual room?" Kairi asked.
Wills nodded. Yes, let me accompany you.
Waver watched as Wills walked away with the mercenary. Seeing his sister's condition, he led her and Trimmau to the room Wills had prepared for them.
Complaining, he asked. Why do we have to share a room? —While sitting on a chair.
Reines, who was lying down, smiled. This room is perfect for breeding, don't you think...?
This surprised and embarrassed the Lord. W-w-why the hell would we do that!?
"Because your magic circuit is pathetic, big brother. Smiling, Reines uncovered her blanket inviting Waver. But at least that way you can contribute your seed to the family lineage...
"Just shut up and go to sleep!" the Lord yelled as he threw a pillow at her.
"You're not good with jokes..."
"If you can say that nonsense you must be fine."
KRAAKABOOM!
The lightning continued to fall.
Gray entered the room. Master, do you know where the others are? I have looked for them all over the workshop; but I can't find them.
Waver shook his head. No, I looked for them too, but I didn't find them either.
KRAAKABOOM!
This worried the young grave keeper. Y-You don't think they came out with this storm!?
Waver looked down. I hope not…
—¡HAHAHAHHH!
A terrible scream resounded throughout the workshop.
-What was that!? Waver asked.
-Teacher! Gray said.
Waver nodded. Let's go! Trimmau, protect Reines!
Waver and Gray ran out of the room.
"W-Wait! Reines tried to object; but both had already left the room.
The two of them ran through the living room and through the corridors until they stopped when...
"W-what!?" / Miss W-Waletta!? Waver and Gray said respectively.
Waletta was lying in the hallway, a window was broken and it seemed that she had been struck by lightning.
"What happened here?" Adashino said arriving.
"Looks like he's been struck by lightning," Kairi said, arriving shortly after.
"W-Waletta?" Wills asked, curiously, he had arrived last, making Adashino suspicious.
She was about to restrain him; but…
—¡MAESTRO!
The group turned to where they had heard the scream.
- Caules!? —Without much thought Waver and Gray ran to the source of the scream.
The two reached the entrance of the workshop. That's where Caules and Sieg had entered, both of them were tired and seemed to have had to run for their lives.
"What happened to both of them?" Why the hell did they come out in the middle of this storm!? Waver asked.
"T-That doesn't matter now, they're coming!" Caules tried to explain.
-They? Who are they talking about? Waver asked. They will not refer...
"Black Dogs, riders, lots of them, w-had to run," Sieg said.
—Wait, Caules, where are Shirou and Rouge!? Gray asked worriedly.
"We split up inside the tunnels. A Black Dog attacked us there while we were following a fairy, the wall collapsed so I don't think they will chase them too.
-A fairy? Blackdogs? riders? Waver asked. The storm, the spectral hounds, fairies, and the murders. Also, the spirits of the dead cannot be summoned…
"What you say is quite worrying, Lord." Kairi had followed shortly after. Those are the characteristics of a certain legend.
"A certain legend?" Gray asked.
The mercenary nodded, he showed a book he had found on a shelf. In England it is believed that the soul of children who die young does not go to heaven, instead they become fairies. But that's just the children, it is said that those souls of older people who do not ascend to heaven, are haunted by a hunt for ghosts and undead, forced to become part of it.
"Is that a fairy tale?" the girl asked.
Kairi nodded. A member of my family liked these.
"You're talking about the Wild Hunt, right?"
Kairi nodded.
—It seems the recreation of the legend, a trip to the underworld. I see…! Waver addressed the necromancer. Sisigou, I will need your participation.
He smiled-. You'll have to pay me, right?
Waver looked away.
Kairi laughed, he extended his hand. Give me a cigar, that will be enough.
Waver nodded giving her one, then turned to his students. Gather everyone, we'll meet in the basement of the workshop.
Caules and Sieg nodded, and spread out to search for the rest of the workshop's inhabitants.
"Gray, the faster we solve this case, the faster we can go looking for them," Waver said, seeing how his apprentice looked at the door without taking his eyes off the exit. Almost as if he was considering going out to look for them in the middle of the storm.
Looking down, she nodded. Yes.
Several minutes ago, with Shirou.
"Rouge, Caules, Sieg!" —Shirou yelled trying to talk to the rest of his companions.
"I'm afraid the rocks are too strong, you can't reach them," said the fairy. I suggest we move on, if we don't deal with it, you probably won't see them again.
This worried the redhead. What are you talking about!?
—The Wild Hunt, a pack of spectral hounds and undead horsemen led by, this time, "King Arthur."
Surprised, Shirou asked. The Wild Hunt? They are coming?
—Yes, as I said, they are a group made up of the aforementioned, they go to different places, depending on the place, their leader changes: King Arthur, Odin, Charlemagne, Fionn Mac Cumhaill, and even Sir Francis Drake. This time the hunt is headed this way, your duty is to hunt the spirits of the people you find and guide them to the underworld or make them part of the hunt.
—But that's impossible, "King Arthur" didn't die in this world, he left for Avalon, right? Also Francis Drake...
The faerie nodded as she walked deeper into the tunnels. It is not exactly the spirit of these beings that commands the hunt, it is more like the manifestation of their respective legends, transformed into specters.
"But I can't take on the whole hunt, that would be crazy."
The fairy nodded. I know, but King Arthur has separated himself from the rest of the hunt, as have the ghost dogs and horsemen. Is waiting for you…
-To me?
She nodded. The sword you carry has drawn it, along with the holy spear carried by your companion.
The holy spear? His partner? The only person he knew regarding the former King of Knights is…
—¿Gray?
—Gray, so that's her name… I suggest you don't let her use Rhongomyniad too much, her power is not something a human should possess, not even Altria could handle her without the danger of losing her humanity, the same could happen to her . The manifestation cannot appear before her, its very existence is disturbed by hers. But, you are different, it comes for you...
"Wait, what do you mean Gray can lose his humanity!? And what does the specter want, does he want Caliburn back?
She shook her head-. I doubt it, it's a wraith, not the real King. His motivations are foreign to me, but maybe he just wants to try you...
"Test me?"
—The sword you carry… It is not the sword of a simple warrior, it is the weapon of a King. Despite having reformed it, you did not eliminate this quality…
"We didn't think it was right.
"Did we believe?"
Shirou raised his katana. Oh right, he is my ancestor, Muramasa.
"Delighted," spoke the spirit of the master smith.
"You were very quiet, did something happen?"
"No, I just didn't think my involvement would add anything." At least until now, because the one who chose to keep it that way was you, I would have turned it into a full-fledged weapon...
Shirou smiled awkwardly. Sorry, you're still mad about that...
She managed a small smile. Don't worry, from my point of view it was the best choice; but, if you're going to be the wielder of that sword, you need to understand what it wants.
-Carrier? I planned to keep it until someone better claimed it...
"Will you reject the decision of the Sword of Selection?
This confused the boy. Your decision? Wait, Neocaliburn only lets me carry it because I reformed it, right?
She looked at him in surprise. Even if it were, wearing it is one thing; but to give you his light… Do you think he only allows it because he reforms you? No, it's not that simple, besides, haven't you found someone worthy of this yet? If so, why haven't you given it to him?
This, in fact, caught the boy's attention. It's true, Neocaliburn had allowed him to use his light, not once, but twice, besides, he thought of giving Avalon to Gray; but it never crossed his mind to give him the Sword of Selection.
She laughed-. You never thought about it, did you? Maybe it was very natural, or maybe you are very clueless; but you already fell in love with her. Just like Altria many years ago...
This embarrassed the boy a bit, did he really never realize how attached he was towards the sword?
—Caliburn already guided the King of Knights, his work there is over. Now you must guide someone else, but remember, it is the sword of a King, not that of a warrior or a blacksmith and sooner or later you will realize this. Just let me guide you...
Although somewhat confused, he nodded. You spoke of an ally...
She nodded. Yes, and here we are...
The two came to a huge cave. There was a hooded person there.
This person looked up and said. huh? Long time no see, boy, have you matured as a warrior?
His voice surprised the boy. You are… Hephaestio's younger twin sister!
This surprised the woman. What the hell!? How did you find that out!? she said drawing her short sword and removing her hood.
She wore a red and black outfit with gold details, which was made up of a skirt, stockings and… A kind of overalls that looked a lot like a sports bra? Well, something like that... All of them black, as well as a longer skirt and red sleeves. He possessed heterochromatic eyes, one of which appears to be a very pale gray with a slight gold tint, while the other was blue. He also had black hair and white complexion.
Before either of them could do anything, the fairy stepped between them. Right now, we can't afford to fight each other, we have a tough enemy to deal with...
This caused the woman to smile. The specter of the King of Knights, isn't it?
The woman nodded, then looked at Shirou. She agreed to be our ally in this battle.
-What? Really?
The woman nodded. I am a warrior, how could I miss out on being able to face the specter of an ancient and famous King?
"We don't have time, let's go..." said the fairy as she left the cave through another tunnel.
Although mistrusting the woman, the boy followed the fairy, with the heroic spirit following him.
In the workshop…
Lord El-Melloi, Kairi, and Wills each stood before a small column covered in white sheets. Gray, Caules, Sieg, and Adashino were watching from afar, and Reines was in the middle of the top three.
"Wills, Kairi, Reines, are you ready?"
-Yes; but we can't evoke any spirits here," Kairi said.
-No matter. We will not do an evocation, it will be an incantation," answered El-Melloi II.
"Brother, in my current state I don't think I can help you.
"It doesn't matter, just stay there. Trimmau, hold her.
"Understood," replied the mystic code.
This caused Reines to pout.
When everything was ready...
"We light a guide flame here..." Kairi began.
"Far One, behold the guiding flame on the other side of the white wall…" Wills continued.
"A hammer that crushes lies, a boat that crosses the sea, some stairs that cross a ravine..." Kairi continued.
—I invite you to come, celebrated being. Blessed creatures...' Wills spoke again.
"Eternal flame, dispels mist and attracts visitors..." El-Melloi finished.
With the spell said. The flames of the torches flared up and encircled the floor, Reines's and Wills's eyes lighting up together. The flames turned lilac and the fairy that Wills had taught the Lord appeared.
"I didn't think they used that kind of sorcery...
"C-can you speak?" Wills asked.
"With Reines's mystic eye and Wills's doom eye, it was simple.
"Don't treat me like a catalyst!" cried Princess El-Melloi.
"I don't treat you like one!" You are…
Waver continued. This workshop is designed to draw out the power of the mystic eyes as well as the power of the ley lines. These enhance and extract their power, that magical power uses the energy of the dead and creates artificial fairies. Truth?
The fairy nodded. Indeed, human.
"What do you mean, Master?"
"I mean the culprit was Mr. Trevor, and the murder weapon was the shop itself!"
"Are you saying that lightning didn't strike randomly!?" Wills asked.
Waver nodded. The workshop calls in the Black Dogs and they kill. On murder days, the position of the moon and stars power hell and earth. Thanks to the power of the fairy eye and artificial fairies, the workshop transforms the soul of the deceased, turning them into Black Dogs, artificial fairies.
"Dogs that devour the souls of the dead," Kairi said. And the gears of this workshop are this fairy and Wills's fairy eye...
"Mr. Trevor created this workshop to control artificial fairies, he didn't care how many deaths he caused," El-Melloi finished.
"But then how did Mr. Trevor die?" Reines asked.
"I killed him," answered the fairy.
-You? Wills asked.
"Yes." Turning around, she headed toward Wills. That magus tricked you and used you to disrupt our order. That's why I punished him.
"I see, but the workshop didn't stop, and that's why you asked for help," Waver said.
She turned and nodded. I knew the girl would die, so I tried to warn them; but it was too late. A force on the march is not so easily stopped...
"W-what?" Wills asked in dismay.
"I didn't want you to be sad, that's all," said the fairy.
—I see, and since she was here, you didn't want to part with the workshop, right, Wills…? Waver said.
"How do you know!?" the evocation magus asked.
"You're famous for hating women. Whoever spends a lot of time with fairies falls in love with them...
Suddenly, the floor ripped open and the entire workshop shook.
"Something's wrong with the ley lines!" Kairi said.
"It can't be, did I underestimate Adashino's seal?" Did my ritual throw the workshop out of control? Waver spoke up.
-Yes; but it's not just that —said the fairy.
-What are you talking about?
The fairy was serious. The workshop calls for the Black Dogs, imitating the legend of the Wild Hunt. The shop didn't stop, the ley lines got out of control, and now the shop got out of control. All this led to a single conclusion: the imitation of the legend called the real one, the wild hunt… It's coming!
Saying this, the whole group ran towards the entrance of the workshop, what they saw there left them terrified: a huge pack of Black Dogs. And, in the distance, a great door, the portal to the Fairy Kingdom. Furthermore, there was another thing they noticed, even further away, a gigantic light shone down from the mountains.
Gray held Add tightly, something had happened. There was a feeling in her chest, no, there was more, the bond she had with Shirou started desperately asking for mana… Worried, she couldn't help but think: "Shirou… Please stay safe".
And, a few minutes ago, with the redhead…
Shirou and the woman followed the fairy to the end of one of the tunnels.
-Excuse me but…
-Yes? the woman answered.
"You don't have a name, do you?"
"Of course not, I was Iskandar's shadow, after all...
"So what do I call you?" the boy asked.
"Hmn… Faker, yes, Faker is fine.
He decided not to ask her more, she seemed not to like the subject and; however... «Why do I feel as if something that belongs to me has been taken from me?». the boy wondered.
-We have arrived.
KRAAKABOOM!
The storm had increased, the lightning was falling without stopping and, in the distance, they could see it. A spectral horse, a man mounted on it, carrying a spear and covered entirely in black armor, its eyes glowing red. He stood several meters away on a hill, below the storm and with lightning falling all around him.
"That... That's not the King of Knights!"
The fairy shook her head. No, I already told you, it's not Altria, it's the manifestation of how the collective of humanity imagines the King of Knights leading the wild hunt. As long as he doesn't want it, the riders won't ride by his side, most of the dogs, on the other hand, have already been sent…" Then the fairy scanned her surroundings. But it's strange, even if the riders don't ride beside him, but are with the king, then why aren't they here...?
Faker smiled. Does matters! Looks like he's been waiting for us. Okay, let's do this boy.
-Do this? What are you talking about!?
She smiled even more widely. To this! Come my Hecatic Wheel: Demonic Heaven Wheel!
A red lightning bolt fell from the sky and from it a great ancient war chariot emerged. This one had two prows and was led by two Skeletal Wyverns.
"I haven't fought a fight on my mount in a while.
Faker climbed onto the cart and extended his hand to the young magus.
Shirou really didn't know what to do in this situation. He knew he had to stop the king's specter, and he also knew that fighting an enemy on mount while on foot was insane. For a moment, he thought about using the Black Barrel, but the storm was so violent that he didn't think he could hit it. The Vorpal sword and the Monohoshi Zao were an option, however, he didn't think they were enough to bring down the wraith. The Phantom Punishment… Well, he didn't know if that thing even had magic circuits, besides, he'd have to stab it up close for it to have any effect, and that would be almost suicidal. He looked at Neocaliburn on his belt, he didn't know why, but he was sure that this time he was forced to use it, Was it the need to prove himself against the sword and against the reminiscence of its "original" wielder? Was it pride in his creation or before it? He didn't know, but he wanted to find out.
He took Faker's hand and climbed onto the battle chariot.
The Wraith King's spear began to glow with the same electricity radiating from the Black Dogs; but to a greater extent and Shirou unsheathed his sword, reciting that plea for the third time, Neocaliburn's blade began to shine with that light that burns everything it touches.
Feeling the power of the sword, Faker was amazed; but then she smiled, taking the reins of the wagon, she warned the boy. I'll take care of taking us, I'll entrust the attack to you.
Faker whipped the reins, and through the storm, with lightning everywhere, the wagon moved forward. For its part, the horse of the Shadow King neighed and, with great speed, went down the hill.
It was only a few seconds, but for the boy it passed as slowly as several minutes. He never wondered what a king was, he wasn't supposed to be; but he knew something, a King Protected his kingdom, and, although it was not the same case, he had to stop the Spectral King, in order to protect everyone who was in the Marbury Workshop. A few seconds into the encounter, he brandished his sword, just as the Spectral King brandished his spear, at the moment of impact, a strong clash of energies enveloped the three of them. All while the fairy watched them from a distance.
At the Marbury Workshop…
Adashino spread her hands and bandages began to cover the entire workshop. Since I am also responsible for this, I will help you. He'll hold out a little longer... I'll take care of Reines and the boys, you guys take care of it.
"You heard her, come on!" Waver yelled.
—Add, limit cancellation! First level!
-Yes ma'am!
Add took her scythe form and Gray bolted out of the workshop. The Black Dogs jumped at her, but Gray cut them down easily. Being ghosts, Add feasted on each of them.
—Oh yes, baby, this is a first class banquet! —Rio the mystic code when devouring the wraiths.
Kairi pulled out a sawed off shotgun, due to its shape it had a short range so he had to wait for them to get close before he could hit them. The shotgun fired fingers impregnated with a curse equal to Gandr, empowering them with his necromancy. So these burrow into the target's body, reach their heart, and cause the curse to break like a "one shot, one kill" demonic bullet.
"My father… My father caused this.
Wills summoned a pair of knives by writing the word ceorfan in the air, these embodied the concept of slashing and, making a great display of Reinforcement Sorcery, Wills slashed any Black Dog that came near him with great skill.
"Well done, genius of evocation." The necromancer smiled. Hey Sir! The expenses will be paid by the Tower!? Kairi said.
Let the Legislation pay! Waver replied.
Lord El-Melloi used a shooting spell, which turned his hand into a weapon and hit the Black Dogs with his shots.
One of the hounds was about to attack the Lord, but Gray cut it off before it could.
"There are too many!" Wills said.
"The wild hunt is huge and the workshop is turning the entire necropolis into artificial fairies.
¡WRRRAAAA!
An enormous Black Dog, bigger than any of the others, came out of the portal. This did not stop and charged the workshop.
Seeing that they had no choice, the young Lord asked his apprentice. Gray… please… take care of it!
Seeing his master's state, Gray nodded. In agreement.
She stood in front of the entire horde of Black Dogs and began her chant...
-What are you going to do? Kairi asked.
"It will unlock the mystery of its mystic code," Waver answered.
—Serious me…
Add began to glow and his appearance began to change.
-Or not! They realized that she is the most dangerous of the group," Wills yelled before being assaulted by two Black Dogs.
The gigantic Black Dog moved forward first and shot a large amount of electricity towards Gray; but, before it hit, Kairi got in the way blocking the attack.
Gray was surprised; but Kairi told him. Do not worry! Take care of yours!
Nodding, Gray sang. Ancient secret, endure death. Sweet mysteries, return to nothing.
"Artificial personality arrested," Add said, though his voice sounded more robotic. The minimum magic power agglutination value exceeded. Starting the release of the second level limit.
"Anchoring the holy spear!" Gray said.
Add had become a huge pillar of light that dissipated the storm around the workshop. The horde of hounds headed straight for Gray, and when he got close to her, Gray shoved the massive pillar into the hounds.
—¡Remotion!
The pillar of light obliterated the entire pack, dissipating them in an instant.
Kairi whistled in astonishment and everyone else watched the complete annihilation of the pack. However, the portal to the fairy kingdom was still open...
-It was not enough? Was the spell completed? Waver asked.
"M-master…" Gray stumbled.
"Gray!?" What's going on!?
Waver knew that Gray could use the spear without completely exhausting himself, so why was he staggering?
"Look…" she said, pointing into the distance.
Rhongomyniad had broken up the storm the pack had caused around the workshop; but, in the distance, the lightning struck even more intensely.
-What does this mean?
"Hey Lord...?" Kairi asked.
-Yes?
"If this is the Wild Hunt, where are the undead riders and the leader who commands them?"
Noticing this, Waver looked to where the lightning struck.
Gray staggered a second time.
"Gray, are you okay?" asked the lord.
—Y-Yes. Avalon is drinking enough...
"Avalan?" asked the Lord.
Gray pointed to where the lightning struck. Shirou must be there. Fast…
This confirmed the Lord's worst fears. If his student and his apprentice were there, then they were facing the rest of the hunt.
"We must go!" Caules said, with Sieg nodding.
Waver also nodded in understanding to his students.
"Wait Lord, what do we do with the portal?" Kairi asked.
"If it wasn't closed with the destruction of the pack, there's only one thing left to do," Adashino said.
"Hmn, and that would be it?" Reines asked.
"Remove Wills' mystic eye and destroy the workshop," she replied.
"That will only exalt the spirits more!" replied the Lord.
"But analyzing and dismantling the spell will take months," Kairi said.
Waver didn't have time for this, and it showed on his face.
"Easy, sir. From the beginning I sensed it…" Wills approached the portal where the fairy was waiting for him. I'll close it from the other side.
"Wait, Wills, the dead will drag you down with them!" the Lord yelled.
He smiled-. I will not die, I will go to the kingdom where Waletta and my father are." Wills turned to Waver. Thank you.
Saying this, both crossed to the portal and disappeared...
The Lord wanted to chase after him, but he didn't have time, in fact, Gray had already left towards where the lightning struck, followed by Caules and Sieg. With no other options, he abandoned the idea of mourning his colleague in favor of saving his student.
"Reines, stay here with Adashino. We will be back soon!
"Wait, brother! Reines tried to follow him, but his eyes clouded her vision forcing her to stop.
Surprisingly, Kairi followed them. Lord, with Shirou, do you mean the Emiya child?
Waver nodded. Do you know him?
Kairi nodded. I met him at Aylesbury. It seems that he likes to get from one hell to another...
"You have terrible luck...!" replied the teacher.
where the lightning strikes...
Shirou's whole body ached, his vision had turned completely black; but he could feel the water hitting his face, he could also feel Neocaliburn that was still in his hand. Holding on to the sword, he rose. How had he survived? Maybe Faker had helped him? Or was it Avalon? Right now, he didn't care. He looked at what was happening around him, he was still on top of Faker's battle chariot, but it was no longer traveling on the ground, now it was flying above the sky.
"What is...!?"
-Below!
Shirou ducked his head quickly at Faker's warning.
"What the hell do you think you're doing!?" Be careless on the battlefield and you will die," Faker scolded as he cut a Black Dog in half that was about to devour the boy's head.
-What happened!? Where did those things come from!? —asked the boy as he projected the Monohoshi Zao and, taking advantage of his long range, proceeded to cut down those who approached him.
—You fell unconscious after the crash against the specter; however, your attack was good enough to stun him momentarily, I was about to seize the moment to give him the finishing blow; but those things began to rise from under the ground and prevented it.
Shirou approached the sides of the car and could see how the Spectral King was chasing them in the distance through the skies followed by a large pack of spectral dogs that moved through the clouds like violet lightning across the skies. "If this is the Wild One, then these must be the spectral hounds; but I thought they had already been sent...». Then the boy directed his gaze to where the Marbury Workshop must be. "There's something wrong, the ley line is getting out of control, the flow of mana is getting erratic."
-I do not know what is happening; but if the legend is true, then the hunt must be turning the spirits that were rooted in the necropolis into part of its forces. And, if this is as big as I think it is, the amount of spirits that will end up becoming part of their forces will be immense. Faker beware! The boy shouted when he saw how, from behind the servant, a spectral horseman attacked her trying to take her life.
The maid, much more experienced than him, with great agility, deflected the spectral rider's sword attack and threw him away from the cart.
"How are you driving this thing if you're not holding the reins!?" The boy asked as he worriedly watched as the car drove itself.
"It's on autopilot!" Now listen to me brat, I can hold my own by fighting multiple enemies; however, if the pack swells and the riders join in, there's no way he'll be able to keep us alive.
-Then what do we do!? Do you have any idea!? Shirou asked as he cut another Black Dog that was coming at him.
"Tell me, do you have any way to draw the Shadow King's attention to yourself?"
"Y-Yes, but, I have to get closer and why?" I mean, I want to face him in single combat; but it is impossible with the pack protecting him.
—Exactly, if you want to kill a snake, first you have to cut off its head, do you know what a pincer attack is? Shirou nodded and Faker smirked. "Okay, I'll get you close and you'll get his attention, then I'll drop you on the ground and attack him from there, while I'll turn around and attack him from behind."
"That's crazy, any mistake will mean our deaths!"
"Exactly, this is what you have to be prepared for if you're going to enter a battlefield, remember it well brat! Faker took up the reins of the war chariot and turned against the Shadow King and the pack that were pursuing them in the distance. I'm going to get closer!
Shirou wanted to snap, this was totally crazy; but from the way the maid was saying it, it seemed like she really had a chance. Oddly enough, he managed to calm down relatively quickly and prepared to execute the maneuver.
The Black Dogs charged at the car and it was surrounded by red lightning around it, as it shot them down one after another, purple and red electricity collided with each other as they got closer and closer, Faker and Shirou cut any Black Dog that came near them.
-Now!
Shirou hurried over and wrote some runes in the air towards the specter. Algiz, Nauthiz, Ansuz, Inguz...
This is the Ath nGabla spell, a deathmatch spell, a one-on-one combat curse created by the Knights of the Red Branch. This organization was created in Ulster and had many members with very suspicious and dangerous attitudes, so much so that they believed that it was more important to watch each other than their own enemies. Once the curse is cast, the caster is prohibited from retreating and the target cannot refuse combat.
Thus, these runes shot towards the specter and made his gaze completely fixed on the redhead and, just as he was about to charge them a second time, Faker quickly tilted the battle chariot preventing the collision. Now it was the Wraith King who hurriedly turned his horse around to chase Faker and Shirou, who were quickly heading towards the ground.
Once they were close enough to it, Shirou jumped off the battle chariot and stared at the ground, while Faker walked away and climbed back up with his chariot. He looked up, and...
ZzZzZzZzZzZz
Overhead, the boy watched as the Ghost King and a pack of ghost dogs filled the sky. The sight was truly amazing and terrifying in equal parts, the violet rays illuminated the place at the same time that they fiercely whipped the earth. At this moment, the Wild Hunt seemed to be the storm itself.
With great swiftness, the Wraith King dashed towards Shirou and instinctively, he activated his Reinforcement and Time Manipulation Sorcery.
The boy watched as the specter charged at him with his lightning-charged spear followed by the spectral dogs, for a moment, he hesitated, he didn't even know if he was capable of using an attack with enough power to stop the hunt. ; but nevertheless...
"Boy, focus on the enemy in front of you! If you hesitate, the only thing that awaits you is failure! his ancestor yelled at his side.
The redhead nodded, even if he had the slightest chance of succeeding, it wouldn't do any good if he failed because of his doubts, he didn't have time to hesitate. Yes you're right. —Shirou observed his enemy looking for any weakness and, in fact, he managed to see that the spectral figure had numerous cracks in his being, perhaps the previous attack had done him enough damage, perhaps he had managed to survive thanks to this attack. he was absorbing the power of the ley lines.
As the spear of the Shadow King descended, more and more electricity emanated. It seems that he wanted to end all this once and for all...
Shirou knew he only had one option so he charged up what little of his Od he still had left. However, compared to the vast amount of mana the wraith had gathered, Caliburn's light could barely stand against it. He tried to use the overflowing mana of the ley line; but this one was so erratic that it was difficult for him to control it.
Seeing his dire situation, numerous doubts began to arise, why had the specter waited for him? What was it that he wanted? Could I beat him?
"Boy, remember what the fairy told you.
—¿Eh?
"As a blacksmith you must be able to guarantee the quality of any of your work. For this you must know how to test the cuts, as well as how to test the handling of the sword, one day I will teach you the method so that you are able to do it and fully extract the potential of any sword; but now you must go even further, understand the weapon you wield on a level beyond the physical, or, as the fairy said, let the sword guide you.
«I don't know what it is to be a King, I never asked myself. I know what my goals are, even though I don't know how to achieve them. If you lent me your power for any special reason, if you are here to guide me...
Shirou sharpened his resolve and stood strong before the storm, before the Wraith King and his pack.
ZzZzZzZzZzZz
And, just before launching his attack, he could only think: "So please lend me your light once more, help me with your power to advance into the future, grant me victory!" And at his prayers, for an instant, the light of Neocaliburn shone brighter, as the redhead wielded it in an upward attack against the storm.
Light shot from the blade just as it had been shot at the Princess of the Dead Apostles long ago, it shot up into the heavens with the intention of tearing them in half; on the other hand, with awesome ferocity the Wild Hunt descended like the storm itself against the light. Both forces met and pushed against each other as the ground trembled in response to their impact.
Shirou gritted his teeth and tried to push his attack with all his might, at first he thought that this second attack would be much weaker than the first, but, both because of the power of the sword that was shining brighter than before, and because the boy He had not taken into account that, unlike his previous fight, he now had more circuits thanks to his crest, this second attack far exceeded the first and, however, the hunt seemed to have turned one against him, the dogs became into lightning bolts, charging the Wraith King's spear harder and allowing it to hold against his attack. At least until...
—Hmn... It's not bad at all, it seems that I won't even need to attack with everything I have, lower my Hekatic Wheel, let's put an end to this fight!
Thus, a second storm was unleashed, unlike the first, this one filled the sky with red lightning as the Hekatic Wheel descended like lightning towards the hunt. Faker poured his magical energy into the mount to maximize the power of his attack, taking it to new levels, like this, and for a moment, the sky shone with the light that burned evil, the wild purple light of the hunt, and the reddish light of the rays of Faker's conquest. But it was just that, a brief instant, suddenly, the purple light began to fade as it was crushed and torn between the other lights, the dogs howled in pain as they were burned, and eventually even the Wraith King himself launched a terrible roar of pain as his power was overwhelmed by both flanks and hit by both attacks,
The battle chariot descended several meters from where the boy was, Shirou, for his part, was about to fall, but he refused, sticking the sword into the ground, he clung to it.
In the distance, the fairy smiled, this was the reason why she believed that keeping the nature of the selection sword was the right thing to do. It was said that, in the hands of a King she recognized as suitable, her true power as a holy sword would be revealed. As the boy grew along the right path, the sword would allow him to use more of his power, and even if it only allowed him to use a little more of it, the mere fact that it allowed him indicated that the boy was walking by. the right direction.
"You...planned this, didn't you?" Faker said, approaching her.
She shook her head. No, but I took the opportunity. We should leave, before that being arrives.
-To be? Which one to be?
She looked into the distance. A very powerful one who has taken a liking to the boy.
Faker clicked his tongue. Retiring without taking any lives for myself, it's a bit disappointing...
—But seeing the growth of your future opponents, doesn't it excite you?
Faker smiled and said, "Say what you want.
Saying that, she disappeared turning into her spirit form. And, after taking one last look at the boy, the fairy did the same.
In a nearby place...
A true war had taken place in that meadow, the corpses of hundreds of horsemen, as well as their mounts, were adorning the meadow. All the undead were dismembered and their souls completely destroyed.
At the top of a hill of bodies, Altrouge stood, she stared into the distance... Alone she had dealt with all the riders of the wild hunt.
The Twilight Princess smiled. He's getting better, at least this time he didn't pass out.
-Crazy; Crazy!
"Yeah, I thought I'd have to intervene too... We'd better get there before it goes down."
"It was!"
Saying that, Fou stood on his shoulder and after howling, a light enveloped them both.
Shirou watched as a light appeared a few meters near him. For a moment, he thought it might be a rider from the hunt; but after seeing her crimson eyes, he allowed himself to fall to the ground.
Altrouge walked over to him. You know what you did was stupid, right?
-Yes…
"You knew that even if you destroyed the wraith, there was no guarantee that the hunt would stop, right?"
-Yes…
She narrowed her eyes. Then?
-Entrusts.
This surprised the Princess. What?
"Ghosthounds were spirits, I was hoping Gray could handle it." As for the riders, I hoped you wouldn't let them have their way. You told me to trust you, didn't you?
The princess pouted a little. Good answer…" Then she smiled 'kindly'. But…
—¡Ouch!
Altrouge gave him a light poke.
-What was that for?
—He just provoked me, you have no right to jump into a death match without telling me first, you know?
"I-I'll keep that in mind..."
—Now rest, the others must be on their way…
-But…
"Rest, or I will make you rest."
He closed his eyes immediately.
In another unknown place...
That "nameless" fairy was walking towards a huge construction... A great tower, it had no doors to enter or exit, there were no windows, and seemed to grow vertically to infinity.
With a snap of her fingers she changed her appearance, now looking less "faerie" and more "human".
"Did you call me, teacher?" she asked.
From the bottom of the tower, a voice was heard.
"I never thought you would interact with humans again, Nimue. The voice was jubilant and animated. And stop calling me teacher, it makes me feel old...
Nimue smiled. Well, you would if you could, Merlin. From your point of view, a great story must be preparing in front of you.
Merlin sighed. Yes, or at least I hope so, I would love to participate; but I am confined to this tower because a dear student of mine tried to assassinate me.
"This is my dear master's punishment for playing with what he shouldn't have, including the fate of that little girl..." answered the fairy with a surprisingly cold tone of voice compared to the kind one used before.
Not paying the slightest attention to that statement, the wizard continued. For a moment, I believed that humanity would come to a sad end; but, this plot twist, has made me emotional. Was it your will, or the world's?
—At this point, I can't manifest in the current world by my own strength, only in that workshop that created a portal to our world, was it possible for me to influence. And the boy getting to the Caliburn shards is not something I had anything to do with, nor was his meeting with the bearer of the holy spear. then she asked. Will you also be watching this possible last story of humanity's heroism?
He laughed-. Of course I'll do it. As the biggest fan of the stories humanity weaves, there's no way I'm going to miss out. Even at the end of time, I will continue to watch and watch over them. Let's enjoy this great story, if we're lucky, it won't be the last.
"Do you think they can catch her?"
"Who knows, but we will be the ones to witness it, the end of humanity, or the beginning of the Age of Will." I'm really excited…
...
...
...
Shirou opened his eyes, he was inside the London train, on one side was Gray, holding his hand, and on the other, was Altrouge, leaning on him. Opposite were Sieg and Caules. And, in the next seat, were Reines, Trimmau and the professor.
They were all asleep, exhausted from the trip, suddenly, his cell phone rang. He reached into his jacket pockets and pulled out two things: his cell phone and a letter.
The letter was addressed to his teacher, was it Faker? I did not know, I did not know it; but he would give it to her when he woke up.
After reading the messages on his cell phone, the boy sighed. One was from Rin, telling him that she was almost done printing the magic circle on her first prototype and that next week, they could test it. The other was from Kiritsugu, who had returned safely from the Middle East and apparently brought him a gift. Shirou understood that the following week would be difficult. Besides, he would surely get a big scolding when everyone woke up, so, still exhausted, he preferred to sleep and face the punishment later.
Sauces.
Once Caules finished singing, the Black Dog stopped resisting.
The young Pokémon trainer looked at the homunculus. Sieg, release him please. It shouldn't attack us anymore.
Nodding, Sieg pulled his sword out of the ghost Pokemon's belly.
The hound got up and, as if nothing had happened, he sat down like a tame dog.
Caules smiled. Now you will be my Pokémon, you will be on our side from now on.
Sieg looked at the young Pokémon trainer, Caules had a smile on his face; but he had lived long enough with the young Yggdmillennia to know that he was barely holding himself back from shrieking with joy. Having been able to help the person who helped save his life, Sieg couldn't help but feel happy too.
But this was short-lived. Wait..." Caules took out his cell phone and directed his camera towards the Black Dog, then frowned. The Iv's are not quite well distributed, and it has the wrong nature —Caules sighed as he put his cell phone away and ordered the Black Dog to enter his Pokeball (Primitive Battery). We have no other Sieg, we will have to capture more and force them through breeding.
Sieg looked at him confused. Couldn't we do it through the extreme training and veneers you talked about earlier?
Caules shook his head. Unfortunately, the caps are only available in Japan, and the Pokémon Association is not on good terms with Pokémon Organizations in Asia. Who knows in how many years the plates will reach us?
"I see, luckily the Wild Hunt has a full pack of Black Dogs, so there are still plenty to see," Sieg tried to cheer him up.
Caules smiled and nodded. You're right, come on Sieg, let's catch them all!
Extra:
Servant: Shadow of Iskandar.
Clase: Faker.
Female gender.
Height: 168 cm.
Weight: 58kg.
Source: Historical fact.
Alignment: Truly Neutral
Parameters:
Strength: b
Resistance: C
Agility: C
Mana: B+
lucky d
Heroic Treasure: C~ A+
Class Skills:
Independent Action rank B: It is possible for a servant to stay in the world for two days without a master. However, this is the ideal value achieved by conserving maximum mana and avoiding battle and Heroic Treasure use.
Camouflage rank B: It is a Skill that allows a Servant to disguise their Class and parameters. At rank B, it is possible to trick an opponent by appearing as another class or with different parameters.
Divinity Rank D: It is the measure of whether one has the Divine Spirit aptitude or not. At high levels, one is treated as a mixed race of a Divine Spirit, a demigod. The level decreases when the heroic spirit's rank increases as a Monster or Demonic Beast; it can also decrease due to one's dislike for the gods. This ability can cut through skills like faith protection and holy figure illumination. However, rank D indicates that one has a low aptitude to be a Divine Spirit.
Personal skills:
High Speed Enchantment Rank B: The ability to utter magical incantations at an accelerated speed. By using a language from the Age of Gods, high thaumaturgy can be cast at the speed of single action spells.
EX Rank Blessing of the Nameless: Whether with sword, sorcery, or curse, he can take damage instead of someone he recognizes as his master. The damage can also be mitigated if proper measures are taken.
Because he is another Iskandar (False) rank B: It is an ability that allows Faker to imitate Iskandar's Heroic Treasures and abilities by duplicating his body. At rank A the copied abilities decrease by one rank, but it is possible to slightly change their function.
Thanks to this ability, Faker gains the following abilities:
Divinity rank D: Treated as a class ability.
B-Rank Tactics: Had he had the skill, Because he is another Iskandar (True) Faker might have been able to get the A-Rank Subjugation Tactics skill, but, with the fake version, he is only able to get B-Rank Tactics. tactical knowledge that is not used for one-on-one combat situations, but for battles in which many are mobilized. When Iskandar was alive, his military prowess that resonated throughout the Islamic world led to many heroic stories and spread throughout Asia. Faker can mimic such tactics to, for example, keep her and Shirou safe even when being chased by a large portion of the Wild Hunt pack.
Lightning Conqueror Rank A: An ability derived from Faker's divinity gained from his relationship with Iskandar. Despite the absence of clear evidence, according to many stories, Iskandar is said to be the son of Zeus, the greatest of the gods. This ability allows to increase the power of Via Expugnatio.
Heroic Treasures:
Hecatic Wheel; Demonic Sky Wheel / rank C~ A+ / Type: Anti-army / Maximum number of targets: 100 people: It is Faker's Heroic Treasure. Due to posing as Iskandar, she also has control over his Gordius Wheel from having used it in life, but hers is drawn by two Skeletal Wyverns instead of Divine Bulls. Like the Gordius Wheel, it is summoned with lightning, although it is crimson lightning instead of blue.
Compared to the original Gordius Wheel, his range and power have decreased considerably, but he is capable of much more in return. One of these is the autopilot feature. Additionally, if Faker pours his own magical energy into it, he is able to exhibit a level of power similar to the original Gordius Wheel.
Via Expugnatio / rank C~ A+ / Type: Anti-army / Maximum number of targets: 100 people: It is a powerful trampling attack performed with the Hekatic Wheel. The damage is decided by two factors, the damage of the eight hits of the Wyverns' paw claws and the damage of being hit by the chariot wheels, also the lightning damage can be increased by the skill: Conqueror of the Lightning. The power emitted is significantly higher than his normal charge after Faker calls out his true name. Its speed is also very significant, reducing a distance of a hundred meters to zero in the instant after it is activated.
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone