Battle of the Heroes

As soon as I stepped outside the church, the discomfort disappeared as if it were a lie.

Indeed... it wasn't a misunderstanding. This church is undoubtedly a den of demons. Once you step inside, there is no hope of ever coming back.

Nevertheless, the fact that I can stand here now... It must be either an unexpected stroke of luck or thanks to Tohsaka who accompanied me. Perhaps because the church felt so unpleasant, even that arrogant Archer's face looked like salvation now.

"Hmph, so you're back, mongrel."

Did Archer notice my gaze? He turned towards me. His arrogant attitude was no different from before I entered the church.

He doesn't show any signs of concern or interest in what happened inside the church or the decisions I made... He's looking at me, but this Servant's attention is directed elsewhere.

Just as I thought that, I finally noticed a change in Saber.

The knight who stood tall, wary and hostile towards Archer. However, that girl... she was now... darkly lowering her head, as if concealing her expression.

While Archer remained unchanged, it was evident how much Saber had transformed. The Saber who was overflowing with determination is now standing there, devoid of any trace of hostility. Judging by her dejected state... has Archer said something to her again?

Even though she's a Servant, Saber is still a young girl. What is this man thinking, to make her feel so down like this?

As if sensing my reproachful gaze, Archer snorted and laughed.

"What, sympathizing with that little girl? It's foolish for you, a Servant in opposition, to side with her."

"You...!"

Archer saw through my thoughts in an instant. His tone, mocking and belittling, infuriated me.

I reflexively tried to retort, but all that came out of my mouth was an empty silence.

It's infuriating... this Servant's words are not wrong. Even though we're not currently engaged in combat, Saber is a Servant I should eventually defeat. It's evident that I've chosen the path of fighting, and sooner or later, I will have to battle her.

But... even so. It's wrong to make a young girl like her have such a face.

"Alright, alright, that's enough fighting. We're together until we return to town, so let's get going."

Tohsaka, seemingly exasperated with the situation, started walking ahead on her own.

Saber, having recovered her composure, followed closely to protect her Master. That left only me and Archer, glaring at each other from a few meters apart.

We can't just stand here and glare at each other, so I start walking after Tohsaka. Reluctantly, Archer follows behind, wearing a grudging expression.

Just before leaving the church grounds, I turn back one last time.

The magnificent church towering on the hill at night. However... if all churches, like this place, have a hidden atmosphere of malevolence and wickedness contradicting their appearance... I will probably never step foot in a church again.

Casting a glance at the twisted building, I finally leave the church for good.

＊＊＊

Tohsaka and Saber descend the slope gracefully. We, somewhat lagging behind, follow after them.

There is an invisible but clearly defined boundary between us and them. I now understand what that boundary represents.

The declaration in the church. It was a pledge for Emiya Shirou, stepping forward as a mage... and a proclamation that I would fight against opposing mages and Servants.

And Tohsaka and Saber, they do not show any signs of concern about that declaration. They are aware of it, but their interest is focused on something other than me.

At that realization, I finally notice Saber's change.

Saber, who stood with dignity, wariness, and animosity towards Archer. However, that girl... she was now... lowering her head in a darkened manner, as if concealing her expression.

While Archer remains unchanged, the transformation in her demeanor is obvious. The Saber who was so full of spirit now stands there, devoid of any trace of hostility. Judging from her dejected state... has Archer said something to her again?

Even though they are Servants, Saber is still a young girl. What is this man thinking, to make her feel so down like this?

Archer appears beside me, seemingly out of nowhere. I glare at him with eyes filled with hostility.

"What's the matter? Are you troubled by such trivial matters, mongrel?"

What does he mean by "trivial matters"? While it may be true for him, these are important things to me.

"You fool, that's what I mean by 'trivial.' You must have determined the path you should take. Therefore, you are incapable of considering any other path."

...Hmm.

It's difficult to put it into words... Is this man telling me that if I have decided to fight, I shouldn't think about unnecessary things?

In other words... does it mean to be prepared to fight against Tohsaka and the others?

...No, I can't grasp it.

If Tohsaka and the others had attacked me outright from the beginning, I might have been able to come to a decision. Naturally, I would have been defeated, but at least I would have recognized them as "enemies."

But... Tohsaka explained the situation to me, someone who knew nothing.

Not out of obligation or a sense of responsibility, but out of goodwill to change my position as an ignorant person. I'm not so heartless as to easily turn my back on someone who has shown me goodwill.

The same goes for Saber. Despite Tohsaka's orders, she didn't strike down me or Archer.

...Yeah. Despite everything, she wasn't a bad person. And I felt a little relieved because of that.

"Well, if possible, I don't want us to become enemies. You're still a good guy, after all."

"You...!"

When I opened my eyes wide, Tohsaka seemed startled and fell silent. The gaze of Saber, who was staring at me intently, was painful. Unable to help it, I continued to stare at Tohsaka's face, and our eyes met.

Instantly, Tohsaka's face contorted in anger. She turned her face away, seemingly displeased about something.

"Hmph, don't think I'll go easy on you just because you flatter me. You and I are enemies now, so be on your guard."

Saying that, Tohsaka turned her back and started walking. But after a few steps, she seemed to remember something and stopped in her tracks.

"Oh, I almost forgot. If your Servant is defeated, take refuge in the church we were at earlier. If you do that, at least your life will be spared."

"...Hmph, so you're already assuming that I will be defeated. You really have no sense of your own position, little girl."

Archer, who had been standing with his arms crossed all this time, muttered an ominous phrase upon hearing Tohsaka's words. But contrary to his words, a wry smile appeared on the young man's face. I thought he would be angry, but it seems I was mistaken.

He gets angry when he's seen, but lets the enemy who tried to kill him go. He has a ridiculously high pride, but doesn't get angry that easily.

Right now, Archer is still a man who knows nothing. It seems that this Servant's personality is something that can't be understood so easily.

"...Well, whatever. Let's go back, Saber."

Tohsaka made a motion as if she wanted to say something to Archer, but she shook her head as if giving up. Without turning back to us, she walked away again, accompanied by Saber.

"Hey, is the conversation over?"

Everyone's movements came to a halt at that voice.

The voice just now didn't belong to anyone present. There was not a single young girl among the people standing here. In that case, the owner of that voice is...

The slope we just descended. With a near certain intuition, I looked up at it without hesitation.

The clouds that had covered the sky until now seemed to have disappeared, as if fearful of the ominous intuition. What remained was the radiant moonlight pouring down on the hill.

And there... stood a presence that should not be there.

Muscles that seemed endless. A surging power emanating from every part of its body, and eyes that exuded a stagnant madness. What could be felt from there was nothing but an instinctive sense of death.

At a glance, it was clear. That was the fourth Servant. A threat comparable to a disaster, an embodiment of a Heroic Spirit.

That thing... is a monster.

Its overwhelming oppressive aura surpasses even Archer's, and its presence, filled with an eerie sense of fear, is different from Saber's resolute and intense presence. Just by existing there, it emanates a chilling fear that makes one's hair stand on end.

There is no trace of everyday life left in this space anymore. All that remains is an intense presence of death.

"Good evening, big brother. Is this our first time meeting like this? I've been waiting for you for so long."

A towering figure of steel, as black as ink. Standing beside that grotesque being is a delicate young girl.

A girl who evokes the image of pure white snow, still in the early stages of youth. Her innocent smile, so pure and innocent, is what makes her all the more eerie.

A grotesque being and a young girl. Their mismatched combination alone spreads a fear that could be called hell in this very moment.

To be killed.

If I move even a little, if I take even one step back, my head will be flying. Without any reason, I accept that fact.

But... perhaps because I am faced with something so despairing, strangely, I feel no sense of fear. It's a state of resignation, where I understand that anything I do is futile.

However, perhaps due to its abnormality, my mind is calm and collected. Thanks to that... I immediately notice the strangeness in the words spoken by the girl.

"...Who are you?"

Suppressing my voice, which is trembling with tension, I return the gaze of the smiling girl.

The girl who said, "I've been waiting for you." If that's the case, she must know me... but I have no recollection of her or the grotesque figure beside her.

...However, when I saw her face, which was devoid of any expression like ice, I realized that this reply was a fatal mistake.

A dangerous sensation, like stepping on a tiger's tail or jumping into a dragon's den, sears my spine. Unconsciously, I gulp down a mouthful of saliva. The tension in this place is so palpable that it makes me feel sick.

"Uh-oh. That thing's abilities surpass even Saber's. What a monster."

Tohsaka, who is standing a little ahead of me, mutters in a dazed voice. She is already on guard, and she seems to be in a slightly better state than me, but how much of a help will that be?

Even though we are separated by this distance, I can sense the despair she feels. It's only natural... that thing is not an entity that humans can face.

"...Berserker."

Saber speaks the unfamiliar word.

Standing protectively in front of Tohsaka, she is already in a battle-ready stance. Her transparent sword is pointed unwaveringly at the giant of rock.

Armor adorned in silver and azure, shining brilliantly. In the midst of overwhelming despair, her figure gleams with unwavering strength.

The fighting spirit emanating from her petite body surpasses even what was directed at Archer. The severity of that enemy can be fully grasped just by the tense atmosphere dwelling on her back.

And... there is another Servant standing in this place.

When I sense the surging magical energy and look to the side, Archer's expression has changed.

There is no change in his atmosphere that combines confidence and composure, but his crimson eyes are narrowed sharply. Unbeknownst to me, his attire has changed from the rider suit to a golden armor woven with magic.

The armor that was damaged by Lancer has a significant indentation in its chest. It seems to have been repaired more than when I saw it earlier, but the extent of the damage is evident at a glance.

However, the fact that he is wearing this armor... means that this Servant also perceives a threat from that giant. In fact, golden dual swords are already gripped in his hands.

Archer's sharp eyes calmly observe that giant. What is that extraordinary insight, which surpasses human comprehension, focused on other than despair?

Seeing the four of us unable to move before the threat of the giant, the snow-haired girl, seemingly composed, changes her expression as if it were a lie.

Hmm, with the innocence befitting her age, she places a finger on her lips. But in this situation, filled with murderous intent, it is a nightmarish sight.

"Well... since it's the first time, I should greet you, right? Nice to meet you. I'm Illya. Illyasviel von Einzbern, you know?"

Observing us, the girl standing beside the giant, she politely lifts her skirt and offers a formal greeting.

Upon hearing the girl's name, Tohsaka and Saber's bodies react ever so slightly. Do they recognize that name?

Without waiting for an answer, or perhaps understanding our reaction, the girl looks down at us with a joyful expression.

"...Well then, I'll kill you. Go, Berserker!"

She proclaims the death sentence as if singing.

In an instant, a black giant figure fills the night alley.

I recognize it a moment too late. From the top of that hill, with a single leap, that giant has jumped down!

"Saber, please!"

As Tohsaka shouts, Saber transforms into lightning and charges forward.

The grotesque warrior approaches, covering the sky. At the moment the sword of condemnation is about to strike, the silver knight confronts it with all her might!

A thunderous roar, a flash.

Berserker, the embodiment of violence, produces a powerful sound, while Saber's invisible sword emits a burst of magical light, creating a brief moment of equilibrium.

However, the strength of the giant is on a completely different level. Despite being a wielder of astonishing strength herself, Saber is slightly destabilized by the direct impact of the sword. In that instant, it becomes an undeniable vulnerability against this enemy.

Naturally, the enemy Servant doesn't overlook this. With its fierce and ferocious nature, the blade-like rock approaches the girl's body to mow her down.

"Haah!"

An equal display of sword flashes reshapes the fate of defeat.

Saber, who seemed to have fallen, regains her posture with an explosive surge of magical energy and deflects Berserker's sword with her momentum.

The deranged warrior's sword is repelled. To cleave through the exposed torso, Saber swings her transparent sword in a diagonal slash.

However... the warrior of immense size overcomes her counterattack. With astonishing agility for its massive frame, Berserker reverses the trajectory of the raised sword and strikes with the great sword.

"Kuh...!"

Saber once again intercepts the threat with her sword.

She defends against such a blow and counterattacks, proving that her strength is not inferior to that giant. Astonishingly, the petite girl is fighting Berserker on equal footing.

The reason lies in her immense magical power, which is visibly apparent. The magical energy emanating from Saber is directly added to her physical strength and speed. In contrast to Berserker, who relies solely on raw strength to cause immense destruction, Saber opposes him by channeling magical energy.

In other words, every move and action Saber takes is enhanced by magical energy. It's like a booster fueled by magical power.

However... even with that power, the giant remains formidable.

Without the benefit of magical energy like Saber, Berserker overwhelms her with sheer physical prowess and speed.

Despite the lack of any semblance of reason, the steel giant rampages with nothing but instinct to trample over Saber and the surrounding space. Its giant sword is nothing short of a reaper's scythe.

Saber gradually yields ground, retreating step by step. The gray aberration charges forward with overwhelming momentum, striking down the sword one after another.

The asphalt cracks with mere aftershocks, block walls fly, and utility poles shatter. Like scraps of paper, everything in the vicinity crumbles and scatters. The impact of destruction even causes the air to scream in agony.

It's akin to a typhoon. This battle, which should have been just a clash, carves the earth, cuts through iron, and swiftly tramples over the streets.

"Hah!"

The girl and the giant clash with intense determination.

In terms of strength and speed, that beast surpasses Saber. It has no need for finesse in its attacks, but then again, Berserker doesn't require such things. Techniques were developed to bridge the gap between the weak and the strong. In the face of such an overwhelming difference, petty tricks have no meaning.

With an immense release of magical energy, Saber matches or even exceeds Berserker's instant output. However, since she is inherently inferior in basic performance, Saber cannot transition to the offensive.

Saber realizes that she is at a disadvantage and seeks an opportunity in their swordplay, but the longer it takes, the more she falls behind in overall power.

But Berserker's relentless onslaught leaves no openings. In the face of each and every attack that could be fatal, there is no choice but to defend.

Therefore... one more move is needed.

To change this situation, one more move is necessary.

And that move can only be made by another Servant.

Proud and towering, the golden Servant.

Clad in armor and wielding two swords, this young man has not made a single move since the battle began.

Although Saber and that giant are currently evenly matched, it is clear to everyone that Saber is being gradually cornered. If Saber succumbs, the gray monstrosity's next target will undoubtedly be Archer. Yet this Heroic Spirit remains still, neither fighting nor retreating, simply standing calmly.

Meanwhile, Saber continues to fight. However, having lost the advantage and unable to find a way out in their consecutive sword clashes, she is now clearly at a disadvantage.

This is bad.

Already, this is not a battle but a mere resistance, postponing the inevitable death by one second. Desperately struggling to survive, she dodges each strike and retreats step by step. Eventually, she will be cornered, crushed by that boulder-like enemy. Even an amateur can see the future that awaits her.

...Allowing such a young girl to fight like this. What on earth am I doing?

Having resolved to fight, I turn my gaze to the young man standing beside me, unable to contain my anxiety.

"If we continue like this, Saber..."

"Step aside, mongrel. It is regrettable, but it is bothersome to be further troubled by those walking meat shields."

Uttering those vexed words, Archer changes his grip on the golden sword in his right hand. The mystery of his strange stance becomes clear the moment he connects the hilts of his swords.

The result is a double-edged sword. It is an anomaly with blades extending from both ends of the long handle, a form that is inconceivable for conventional weapons.

Such a peculiar weapon poses a danger to its wielder. Nevertheless, ignoring such conventional wisdom, Archer effortlessly lifts the sword with one hand. Is he really planning to swing that thing with just one hand?

...No, wait.

That shape is familiar. The deformed section where the hilts are joined slightly transforms, and the familiar form gradually appears.

"An archer...?"

Surprisingly enough, those twin swords had transformed into a towering bow, as tall as the wielder. I could see even the magical strings that seemed to have been woven with mana.

Witnessing that sight, I recalled this Servant's class.

Until now, he had been fighting with dual swords, but this golden youth was not a swordsman. The Servant of the swordsman Saber was the one currently engaged in battle with Berserker.

In other words, this longbow was his true weapon. It must be a weapon that can pierce through the heart with certainty, rivaling even Lancer's magical spear.

However... why was that? In a way that defied logic, something was telling me that this was not his true weapon.

Ignoring my perplexity, Archer readied the large bow. With a crackling surge of mana, a shining arrow manifested. That too must have been something formed with mana.

I understood then. This man's battlefield was not here.

In his battle against Lancer, this Heroic Spirit fought with dual swords. Based on the initial impression, I had mistakenly believed that was Archer's fighting style, but it was a big misconception. That battle was the first fight for this Servant right after being summoned. Although he gained the advantage through strategy, Archer had no choice in selecting the battlefield itself.

But now, things were different. With Saber engaged in battle against Berserker, there was room for maneuver. Yes... the advantage was in choosing the battlefield, the position, and the distance. For an archer, the battlefield was none other than a place where the enemy's fangs could not reach.

Tightly, silently, the bowstring was drawn. However, there was no sign of the arrow being released.

A decisive strike cannot be easily launched. No matter how magical the arrow may be, it will not reach that Mad Warrior without seizing the opportune moment.

Thus, Archer waits.

For the perfect opportunity, the moment of annihilation. Focusing his consciousness to the utmost limit, he is ready to weave together a strategy for victory. The discerning eyes of crimson brilliance perceive every movement of the giant.

The bowstring, filled with mana to its limits. The string so filled with power that it feels like it might burst at any moment. The magical bow emits a groan, as if resonating, in order to pierce the colossal Heroic Spirit. Archer's intense focus on the battlefield makes even breathing seem restrained.

"■■■■■■■■■■──────!!!"

Sensing the impending threat, the gray giant roars.

But that Servant cannot spare any attention for us. Even though she has the advantage, Saber's abilities should not be underestimated. Even a momentary lapse of concentration would be fatal against that young girl.

If she were to divert her attention to other enemies, the precarious balance would easily shift. In the next moment, it would undoubtedly be the giant's neck that would be severed.

That's why Berserker rages. With a single-minded determination, the storm of destruction humiliates the world. Merely by charging, its attack power that can shatter even iron is comparable to a tornado.

Such destruction, such violence. There is no one who can endure receiving such attacks. Even as a Servant who surpasses humanity, facing that giant axe-sword would result in being shattered like mere dust.

Saber, who had been defending against the attacks, gradually retreats without being able to parry them. There is not even a chance for a counterattack, and the relentless impact chips away at her body bit by bit.

Before the incessantly swung boulders, Saber's body slightly tilts. Even with the assistance of mana, she couldn't completely block Berserker's slashes.

Seizing that moment as an opportunity, the raging giant moves forward. The raised greatsword, swung with great force, is undoubtedly the final blow. It is the absolute end, the strike that will bring this battle to a close.

Saber, stumbling, cannot make it in time. There is no way to escape from that attack range, and in her unbalanced state, she cannot withstand that axe-sword.

Therefore, this is the end.

The Servant known as Saber is about to be cut down by the Berserker, the monstrous being.

"If you don't want to die, prostrate yourself, Saber."

In an instant, Archer's clear voice resounds, cold and penetrating.

Without even having time to think, Saber collapses sideways with the momentum of her fall. It is a foolish plan that creates a vulnerability on purpose. Even a fraction of a second of defenselessness is a fatal mistake in the face of that giant.

However, this is a different situation now. While Saber is engaged in a battle with Berserker, there is room for Archer to maneuver. Yes... there is room to choose the battlefield and craft a winning strategy.

"──Don't let it happen. Gewicht, umzu, Verdoppelung!"

In that moment, a black blade is thrust in.

The jewel thrown by Tohsaka explodes around the Berserker. In an instant, something like a jet-black belt spreads out. Berserker's entire body is wrapped in magical chains, sealing the Heroic Spirit and leaving no room for evasion!

The impact erupts.

The surge of light and heat akin to an explosion temporarily paralyzes the vision and hearing of those who witness it. The aftermath of the arrow's collision becomes a shockwave, surpassing even the brutal force of the axe-sword, blowing away everything in its vicinity into smithereens.

Such devastating power, almost like a joke. Archer's sniper shot is a literal lethal blow. Even the mere aftermath becomes a powerful shockwave that shakes and trembles the very fabric of space.

────

That strike, filled with such power. If it cannot be avoided or blocked, even an extraordinary Heroic Spirit would be unable to escape death.

The remnants of the attack, or rather the fragments of the shattered streets, turn into smoke and dance in the air. The visibility becomes unclear, but it is clear that there is nothing moving in that space.

Struck by that attack, the stone giant falls into silence. It is likely that it has been completely obliterated without a trace.

──However.

"Ahahahaha! Impressive, isn't it? To think you would manage to injure my Berserker!"

A voice, filled with amusement, echoes in the darkness. That laughter must have come from the white girl standing next to the giant.

That girl... she is probably Berserker's Master. That fact alone is already abnormal, but there is something even stranger in this situation.

Ilya, the small girl who introduced herself. Despite her Servant being destroyed, why was she laughing so joyfully?

"But that's enough. It's surprising, but you all are nothing compared to him──"

That surprise, who was it that uttered it?

──In the frozen moment of time, a shooting meteor pierces through the darkness of the night.

An immense surge of mana that could be described as beyond measure. No, it is in fact pure mana itself, manifesting as a sweeping strike.

With consciousness sharpened to its limits, the speed is finally perceivable. Those targeted by that grim reaper would be torn to shreds without even realizing they had been struck.

The full-force strike of Archer, the bowman. If Saber seizes victory through the sword, then the archer reaps the enemy's life with a precise shot!

"■■■■■■■■■■──────!!!"

The steel giant screams once again.

However, unfortunately for him, he is the Heroic Spirit Berserker. If he had retained his intelligence and reason, he might have anticipated that strike and taken countermeasures. But that is a hypothetical situation. Hypotheses do not reach reality because they are impossible to achieve.

Perhaps sensing his impending death, Berserker swings down the greatsword towards Saber. Using his mighty arm, he forcibly changes the trajectory of the axe-sword. However, that is ultimately nothing more than a stopgap measure. Against Archer's discerning eyes and calculations, what meaning does such a move hold?

The outcome cannot be changed. That strike will without a doubt hit the giant. Realizing this, Berserker attempts to prepare for the incoming attack──

"I won't let you. Gewicht, umzu, Verdoppelung!"

In that moment, a black blade is thrust into the situation.

The jewel thrown by Tohsaka explodes around the Berserker. In an instant, something like a jet-black belt spreads out. Berserker's entire body is wrapped in magical chains, sealing the Heroic Spirit and leaving no room for evasion!

──An explosive impact.

The surge of light and heat, equivalent to an explosion, temporarily paralyzes the vision and hearing of those who witness it. The collision of the arrow turns into a shockwave that surpasses even the axe-sword's brutality, blowing away everything in its vicinity into smithereens.

"────"

Such a powerful strike. If it cannot be avoided or blocked, even an extraordinary Heroic Spirit would be unable to escape death.

The dust and debris of the destroyed streets turn into smoke. The visibility becomes hazy, but it is evident that nothing is moving.

That wound caused by the attack from Archer's arrow is gradually closing──and unbelievably, it has completely healed. I don't understand the reason, but it seems that the Noble Phantasm possessed by Berserker grants him an unfair regenerative ability.

The monstrous strength that easily shatters concrete, the agility that surpasses the petite Saber, and now, even Archer's arrow is unable to kill him. How can such a monster be defeated?

The frozen me is observed with a look of contentment by the little girl standing on the hill. In her small eyes, an unmistakable color of delight is present.

I recognize that... It's the smile of sadistic pleasure one would have when crushing insects, harvesting lives that cannot resist. That little girl is undoubtedly enjoying watching us freeze in place.

"Hehehe, do you understand now? My Berserker is the strongest. Even if he receives injuries, heroes like you won't be able to defeat Heracles."

Tohsaka freezes in astonishment. Her surprise is shared by Saber, who has retreated and regained her stance.

"Simply put, it's a Servant's ultimate technique. Ah, I see. It's nonsense, that monster──!"

Tohsaka answers without even looking at me. But it seems she has also realized something, as she glares at the towering giant with a grinding of her teeth.

Meanwhile, Berserker's wound gradually closes──and, to my surprise, it has completely healed. I don't understand the logic behind it, but it seems his Noble Phantasm grants him an abnormally powerful regenerative ability.

With his monstrous strength that effortlessly shatters concrete, his agility surpassing that of the petite Saber, and now an inability to be killed even by Archer's arrow, how can we possibly defeat this creature?

The small girl on the hill observes us with an expression of delight. Her eyes, small and narrow, shine with sadistic pleasure, relishing the sight of helpless insects. There is no doubt that she is thoroughly enjoying our predicament.

"Hehehe, do you understand now? My Berserker is the strongest. Even if he sustains injuries, heroes like you won't be able to defeat Heracles."

Tohsaka freezes, her surprise evident. Even Saber, who has regained her composure, is visibly taken aback.

"In other words, it's a trump card possessed only by Servants. Ah, I see. That monster──!"

"Wha──!? Are you saying that Servant is that demigod, the great hero...!"

In response to the girl's words, Saber, who had remained composed until now, showed a trembling expression for the first time. ...It's only natural. The delicate girl has thrust a cruel reality upon us.

The great hero Hercules.

Even I, a Japanese person, am familiar with that name.

He is the greatest hero in Greek mythology, a half-god, half-human warrior who overcame twelve labors and fought countless gods and monsters. His incredible feats, such as shattering mountains and creating straits, have been passed down through various stories and films even in the present day.

Is the giant standing there really the man himself? If that's the truth──now transformed into a Berserker, he is undoubtedly a genuine monster.

It is understandable why even Saber, who possesses such power, cannot overcome him. If the myths are true, that hero has achieved victory over gods and monsters multiple times. If that's the case, there is no way that we, mere humans, can stand against him.

With a clank, Saber takes a step forward, resolutely stepping into the death line. Even after being confronted with such a despairing truth, Saber is prepared to overcome Berserker.

A formidable monster. A great hero hailed in mythology. In the face of such a creature, she has resolved not to flee, but to confront him. Her fighting spirit can be felt even from this distant place.

There is no chance of winning. If we fight, we will lose.

But──Saber moves forward. As if she has an objective that she must defeat Hercules at all costs, even if it means risking her life.

But how can we win? No, more fundamentally, how can we even resist?

The three Servants we have encountered so far and that Berserker are on a completely different level. Just by charging, he causes the city of people to collapse. That existence is nothing short of a calamity.

"Archer. Can't you use that Noble Phantasm of yours?"

Earlier, the golden Servant showed a bow.

That weapon, which displayed an extraordinary movement by connecting the handles of the dual swords, must undoubtedly be Archer's Noble Phantasm. If he were to use it again, perhaps it would be possible to defeat that monster.

...However, what is this unease I feel in my chest?

As an Archer-class, it is certain that this hero's weapon is a bow. But for some reason, there is a sense of unease deep within my heart.

Something foreign smolders in the realm of instinct, disregarding reason. It definitely roars... This young man's Noble Phantasm is not something like that.

A weapon befitting the golden Servant. Yes, for example, it resembles the crimson sword I saw in that dream──.

How does Archer perceive my confusion? The usual composure is nowhere to be found, and the golden hero gazes at me with a serious gaze.

"──I don't know."

"...Huh?"

"I said I don't know. At present, I can't even recall my own name. It's unlikely that I can use a Noble Phantasm to begin with."

Archer declares with frustration.

Tohsaka said that a Noble Phantasm is a Servant's ultimate technique. But this man... he can't use his Noble Phantasm──!?

"What? Then what about the sword and the bow you showed earlier?"

"I don't know. Those were not acquired through knowledge but extracted through instinct. In my current state, I cannot wield anything beyond that.

──Well, it's quite enjoyable to taste the realm of the weak. Rejoice, mongrel. My existence seems to be a fitting Servant for the likes of you."

Archer, with a mocking smile on his face, even chuckles.

Instead of getting angry... this Servant seems to be enjoying even his own abnormal state.

It's incomprehensible. And to top it off, he even said, "Rejoice." Does this arrogant young man consider even our current predicament as nothing more than a source of pleasure?

What is clear is that Archer does not have a weapon stronger than that bow──in other words, the cruel reality is that he does not possess the means to defeat Berserker.

Saber, realizing that she cannot win, points her transparent sword at the giant.

Tohsaka, gripping something tightly in her hand, stares at Berserker with hostility.

And... I stand there dumbfounded, unable to do anything.

While surveying the three of them in order with an intensified smile... the face of the white girl suddenly freezes.

In the direction of the girl's gaze is Archer, who still holds his great bow and wears an insolent smile. When the girl caught sight of his figure, she froze with an expression that showed disbelief.

As if denying reality, the girl shakes her head in dismay. Her pale face has turned as white as her hair.

The calm smile has vanished completely. Looking straight down at Archer, the small girl trembles even.

"──Who are you, exactly?"

With a voice mixed with fear, the girl questions Archer.

What was it about Archer that bothered her? With eyes that seemed to have seen a ghost, the girl stares at the golden Servant.

"Answer me. I can't have a Servant I don't know anything about!"

In irritation at Archer's calm demeanor and smile, the girl shouts as if throwing a tantrum.

But... the young man, who heard her words, raised an eyebrow displeasingly. It seemed that he had no interest other than that, as until now, his crimson eyes had only been fixed on Berserker. Now, they pierced the girl with a sense of killing intent.

The pressure is so strong that the air creaks. The immense killing intent, surpassing even the rampaging warrior, strikes the frozen girl.

As if saying that her very existence is displeasing. Without paying any attention to Berserker standing between them, Archer directs his burning anger at the girl.

"You little girl──know your place. What right does a mongrel like you have to look down on me, let alone order me around!"

The anger in Archer's voice resounds.

Intimidated by that force, even though they are at such a distance, the girl takes a step back. There is an unmistakable fear on her face.

...That's only natural. The killing intent emanating from this Servant is beyond normal. It is not directed only at enemies like Berserker but at anything that might resemble insects or filth, a killing intent that does not regard humans as humans.

If a weak-willed person approaches, just that alone would be enough to stop their heart. The overwhelming pressure of Archer's presence remains unchanged, even in this dire situation.

"────!"

However, the girl's absent-mindedness lasts only for a moment.

Replacing fear with anger, she thrusts her small finger at Archer and looks down on him with strong eyes.

"That's enough! Defeat them all──go mad, Berserker!"

As soon as the girl shouts, the multiplied killing intent is released from the lead-colored giant.

It is a violence that could blow away anyone who even tries to touch it. The impact is even greater than before, surpassing the pressure from earlier. The overflowing killing intent in Berserker is a weapon in itself, capable of killing a person with just that.

To be killed.

To be crushed.

To be torn apart.

Even such deeply ingrained convictions well up in the depths of my heart. It is not a matter of whether we can win or not. In the presence of that giant, our very existence is not permitted.

That is truly the embodiment of tyranny. A threat surpassing the danger from ten years ago. The fear of the enraged demigod has manifested itself here tonight.

"■■■■■■■■■■──────!!!"

For the third time, Berserker roars.

At the same time, the giant rushes like a bullet. Its momentum would surpass even a tank cannon.

The target of the monstrous being's attack is Saber, who stands in its way. In a fraction of a second, it closes a distance of over ten meters and swings its great sword with a speed faster than sound──!

"Fool, are you saying that until now I haven't even gone into full 'Mad Enhancement'...!"

Saber grits her teeth. The current Berserker clearly surpasses Saber's power.

Berserker repels the transparent sword that attempts to intercept, using its explosive destructive power. The sword is blown away, even without making direct contact.

With an unstoppable force, the giant swings its sword at an even greater speed. Each strike breaks through Saber's defenses, causing her posture to collapse. Despite that, Saber continues to defend against the attacks with all her might.

Her defense being shattered with each strike, Saber's body trembles before the force of the giant's impact.

By releasing a tremendous amount of magical energy, Saber has gained immense strength and agility. However, she still can't withstand Berserker's impact, and with each passing moment, she is forced to retreat.

Saber's desperate face exudes a sense of sorrow. Even this moment, she cannot take her eyes off Berserker, even for a second.

Believing in her Servant's victory. Her gaze is fixed on the front, without looking away.

"It's the perfect time to retreat, despite my eagerness. I'm leaving, mongrel."

Archer scoffs and turns towards me. His words make me instantly angry, and I reflexively open my mouth to respond.

"What... Are you telling me to abandon Tohsaka and Saber!?"

"Hmph. Those women are your enemies to begin with. Losing Saber is regrettable for me as well, but it's the height of foolishness to show mercy to the enemy. We can easily take down one of our enemies without much effort, so we should consider it a stroke of luck."

"You...!"

I try to say something in return, but the words don't come out.

It's infuriating. Why is this guy always right with his words? Knowing that only makes it even more frustrating.

From a logical and efficiency standpoint, Archer's words are indeed correct. Tohsaka referred to us as "enemies" in the first place. Since the Holy Grail War is a battle royale, Tohsaka and Saber will eventually become obstacles.

If I look at it from a different perspective, the current situation might be an opportunity. While Berserker and Saber are fighting, Archer and I can easily escape from this place. And if that happens... Saber will undoubtedly be slain by that giant. Without dirtying our hands, we can defeat one of the Servants.

Although Berserker is still a formidable enemy, there's no reason for us to fight him. The other Servants besides Archer also have the potential to defeat Berserker.

But... that's not possible. It goes against the path of a hero.

Tohsaka and Saber didn't attack me, someone they knew nothing about. They kindly explained the situation and even guided me to the church. Abandoning them here would be a betrayal of their goodwill.

Even in the current battle, they didn't abandon us, despite the fact that they could have. Even while being enemies, they treated us as allies. Even during Archer's sniper moment, Tohsaka provided cover for us. Despite being enemies, they saw us as comrades.

And besides... how could I abandon a little girl and escape on my own? Such a cowardly act is unthinkable.

I can't just leave someone who is suffering. The role of a hero is to help those who are in trouble and in pain.

On that day, five years ago. On that night, didn't I decide to become that?

"─Enough. Berserker, go mad. Sever their heads after they regenerate."

Uttering those words with a smile, I send a chill down my spine. What did that little girl just say?

She turns her gaze from Archer back to the battlefield.

At that moment, scattered fresh blood stains my field of vision red.

Saber collapses on the ground. Berserker stops moving.

The meaning behind that scene is clear. Saber has been slain by Berserker. The girl's narrowed eyes coldly stare at the tattered Servant.

Saber is still not dead. Despite being covered in wounds, she is still trying to stand up.

...But. There is no fighting strength left in her small body. The clenched fist of the injured Tohsaka, bleeding profusely, speaks more than anything else.

To do something like that. To order the young girl to fight even in such a state.

Sever their heads.

Violate them.

Such a cruel command, something that a young child would never think of, was issued.

To carry out that order, Berserker moves once again. It raises a rock sword that is taller than the girl.

An inescapable blade of death. Anyone who receives such a blow will not even leave a trace of their human form. In an instant, Saber will be reduced to mere pieces of flesh. Seeing the vision of the girl who fought desperately being brutally killed, I...

"You fool, have you lost your mind, mongrel!"

Before I can think, I start running with all my might.

Archer is shouting something in anger, but I don't pay attention to such voices. Right now, the life of that girl is what matters.

I can't do something like defeating that monster on my own. So the problem is not there. Before defeating that monster, I must save Saber from that blade...

"Eh...?"

A sharp impact, as if something cut through my back.

My legs lose their strength in an instant.

Before me, there are beautiful eyes staring at me in bewilderment. Good, it seems like I was able to save Saber. Now I just need to escape from here at full speed.

That's right, I have to run.

If I don't run, Berserker will kill me. It would be meaningless to save Saber and then die.

But... why?

Why are my legs not moving with my body?

"!?"

The sound of gasping. I don't know whose voice it was that leaked out, not in my current state.

Is it Saber, who is looking at me? Or Tohsaka, standing there dumbfounded? Or maybe... the little girl, Illya, who looks down at me wide-eyed?

Something's not right. Why is everyone looking at me like that?

"Shirou, your... your stomach!"

Tohsaka trembles. Her hands covering her mouth, what do they mean?

I look down at my own body. What spreads before me is a hellish sight that makes me want to close my eyes.

Scattered entrails.

Overflowing fresh blood.

Exposed ribs.

Those mashed-up things were attached to my body just a moment ago.

"Damn, seriously..."

A laughter escapes me.

How foolish. I saved Saber, but it seems like I failed to escape on my own. This makes me look like an idiot.

It's terrifying, but even with such injuries, I strangely can't feel any pain. It seems like... even the organs that should feel pain have been destroyed.

But well, maybe that's fine.

In exchange for one idiot, I was able to save Saber. A beautiful girl who stood up against a giant with her small body. Since I managed to avoid killing her, maybe I should say, "Well done."

...Ah, this is bad. My field of vision is starting to distort.

"What... is this?"

I mutter as my vision starts to turn black.

I can't see anymore. Before realizing that I can no longer feel my body, my consciousness begins to fade. It's natural since everything below my stomach has been blown away.

Tohsaka and Saber are desperately shouting something. I feel a slight sense of guilt, thinking that I may have angered them.

Oh no. It might have been a mistake to upset them even though I'm about to die. If I had opened my mouth, I might have been able to apologize.

...I'm sorry.

As my consciousness disappears and my sense of self fades away, the last things remaining are... the eyes of a burning cold flame and the sound of insects chirping faintly from somewhere.

＊＊＊

Tonight, the battlefront opens.

There is a figure somewhere observing the fierce battle.

To overlook the clash of Servants is no ordinary being but someone deeply involved in the Holy Grail War.

Saber, Archer, Lancer, Berserker.

In this Holy Grail War, four Servants have already revealed themselves to the world. Although not as intense as the previous battle, the fact that four Heroic Spirits are already running amok in the early stages is unpredictable.

However, with three Servants yet to appear. The stagnant situation will inevitably lead to further developments.

The remaining Servants are all experts in strategy and cunning. They are all formidable opponents on the battlefield.

Then, how will they defeat the enemies?

How will they break through the enemy's fortress?

Even the strongest piece can be taken down by the weakest piece depending on the conditions. Therefore, what's important is when and how to move each piece. Considering every condition, every move. The old man's intellect is cold and sharp, extending to the farthest reaches.

The enemy is troublesome, and it would be desirable if they annihilate each other.

But the old man is not so senile as to think that things will go as he wishes without dirtying his own hands. Where and when to make a move, how to strike. His mind is cold and sharp, encompassing every element.

In the darkness, where no one knows, the old man silently contemplates. Everything is merely for the sake of fulfilling his own ambition.

How much time has passed? In the dim room where time is indistinguishable, the old man suddenly raises his head. There is an unmistakable wicked smile on his face.

"Finally, luck has come my way after sixty years."

No... Can this man be called human?

He is nothing more than an ordinary old man in appearance. Hunched over with a cane, he looks like a feeble existence to anyone who sees him. He must have already passed sixty.

But in truth, if this man were just an ordinary old man... he wouldn't possess such an eerie aura, such a foul stench.

He is an anomaly, someone who is not truly human despite appearing as one. A being distinct from the embodiment of Heroic Spirits, a Servant.

"Well then, it's about time I make a move... Your turn, [Servant's name]."

Speaking to the darkness where no one should be, his voice resonates with delight.

In the shadows, something certainly nods. The old man, longing for the Holy Grail, deepens his satisfied smile.

＊＊＊

Thus, the first night comes to an end.

The ambitions of the magi. The determination of the heroes. Time slowly passes, concealing various things.

In the end, what awaits them is either the desired glory or the unwanted destruction. Only the radiant moonlight quietly illuminates the darkness.