Council of war

──Far away, I dream.

Somewhere that is not here.

Not the present, but someday.

Even though it is called a different world, it is an unquestionably different world, extending far beyond. However, the forest that continues in the distant distance and the desert reflecting the sunlight indicate that it is undoubtedly Earth.

In the center of such a horizon covered with nature, there was a gigantic city. A large city protected by sturdy walls, with numerous buildings lining the streets.

Walking on well-maintained streets are vibrant people. Things never seen before are sold in shops, and things never heard of are being made in factories.

Amidst all that, a man stood inside the towering castle.

Crimson eyes that seemed to see through everything, overlooking the world.

Golden hair that shimmered brilliantly under the sunlight, illuminating the sky.

The man with an appearance that no ordinary person could have exuded an aura of intimidation from his entire body, making the world itself tremble. The golden throne behind him clearly indicated that he was the ruler of this world—a king, known to everyone.

Serving, instructing, and paying homage behind the king were countless people.

Not just ten or twenty.

Not even reaching a hundred or two hundred.

But regardless of the actual number, if it cannot be counted by humans, it would be called infinite.

People who knelt and showed a submissive posture in fear of his majesty. Without exception, they feared and respected the king.

The king, who never made a wrong judgment, coldly and ruthlessly judged everything. He destroyed and subjugated all enemies and plundered everything, be it treasures, technology, or civilization, leaving nothing behind, establishing himself as the absolute ruler.

A king who looks far ahead, beyond human comprehension. A man who inherited the blood of gods in his half, now becoming an existence that even gods cannot touch.

In the presence of an entity equal to a god, there is no choice for humans but to obey. Resistance, rebellion, and even negotiation are not permitted before this king.

The ruler who governs the heavens and the earth, dominating everything without being understood by anyone.

His way of being is sharp and pure. He walks his own path straight and unwaveringly.

──That. I thought it was just like a sword.

＊＊＊

...I wake up.

The scorching sunlight that burns my body seems brighter than usual. Did I oversleep, perhaps?

Well, that can wait for now. What's important now is──

"──What was that?"

The strange dream that I saw just now, so vividly.

For a dream, it leaves a peculiar sense of reality. But upon waking up, I can't recall the essential parts as if they were veiled.

But there is one thing I remember clearly, that figure.

──The golden king.

I don't remember the details clearly, and I don't recognize anything else.

But... there is no mistaking it. That was undoubtedly──

"...Ah..."

As soon as I recall it, my vision in front of me distorts without warning.

The taste of iron fills my mouth. It's that feeling you get when you have a nosebleed, and it reaches your throat.

I don't know why my mouth is covered in blood, but it feels nauseating just to breathe. Judging by this feeling, blood must have accumulated in my stomach as well.

...I feel sick and nauseous.

The discomfort is so overwhelming that even sweat starts to form on my body. It's a pain as if my entire body has turned into murky blood. Dizziness, nausea, and stomach pain—a trifecta of physical discomfort.

What on earth has happened to make me feel this way? I'm supposed to be perfectly healthy and in good shape. Maybe I caught some illness in this cold weather. Or perhaps, it's some injury that affects my stomach and throat──

"Hmph, so you wake up later than I do. Truly an ignorant man who knows nothing about manners, aren't you?"

And then.

A golden-haired youth was leaning against the wall with an air of superiority.

"H-Huh!?"

A foolish voice escapes me reflexively. Immediately after, due to the forced opening of my mouth, a feeling of nausea wells up.

With that impact, I remember everything in an instant. This golden man is Archer. The Servant who I summoned yesterday, a Heroic Spirit that transcends humanity.

Not clad in golden armor but dressed in a simple plain black rider suit with a short hem, worn over a white shirt. Yet, when this splendid and resplendent man wears it, it appears to be the finest formal wear.

Yes. Last night, I was supposed to be with this Servant, Rin Tohsaka, and Saber.

And then, we fought Berserker... and when Saber was about to be killed, I tried to save her and was struck by that axe-sword.

"...Why am I still alive?"

I ask myself.

Certainly, I remember saying something similar yesterday... and without a doubt, this is not a dream. I vaguely recall the last memory from last night.

I saw with my own eyes that my internal organs were blown away. The lower half of my body should have been completely crushed. I vividly remember that sensation.

...As soon as I remember, a feeling of intense nausea wells up. I forcefully swallow my saliva and suppress the rising sensation.

Feeling extremely uncomfortable, even cold sweat is forming. It's a combination of dizziness, nausea, and stomach pain, a set of symptoms of poor health.

What on earth happened to make it like this? I'm supposed to be perfectly healthy and well-trained. Is it possible that I caught some kind of serious illness recently? Or perhaps, some injury that affects my stomach and throat──

"Hmph, you're slower to wake up than I expected. Truly a man who knows nothing about manners, aren't you?"

And.

A golden-haired youth was leaning against the wall with an air of superiority.

"H-Huh!?"

A foolish voice escapes me reflexively. Immediately after, due to the forced opening of my mouth, a feeling of nausea wells up.

With that impact, I remember everything in an instant. This golden man is Archer. The Servant I summoned last night, a Heroic Spirit that transcends humanity.

He's not clad in armor adorned with gold but wears a simple and short black rider suit, with a white shirt underneath. However, when this magnificent and resplendent man wears it, it gives the illusion of being the most supreme formal attire.

Right. Last night, I was supposed to be with this Servant, Rin Tohsaka, and Saber.

And then, we fought against Berserker... and when Saber was about to be killed, I tried to save her and was struck by that axe-sword.

"...Why am I still alive?"

I ask myself.

I'm sure I said something similar yesterday... but without a doubt, this is not a dream. I vaguely recall the last memory from last night.

I saw with my own eyes that my internal organs were blown away. My lower body should have been completely crushed. I remember that sensation vividly.

...As soon as I remember, a feeling of intense nausea wells up. I forcefully swallow my saliva and suppress the rising sensation.

When I cautiously lower my gaze, I see bandages wrapped around my abdomen. It seems someone has treated me, but... it's strange. Were the wounds from last night something that could be concealed with just these bandages? No, more importantly, the fact that I still have the lower half of my body is odd in itself.

Come to think of it, I've heard of something like this before. Cases where people who have lost their limbs due to accidents or other reasons experience an illusion where their limbs are still attached in order to escape from reality. So... perhaps what I'm seeing now──

"Ah, Archer. Are my legs properly attached!?"

Overwhelmed by a terrible imagination, I involuntarily ask Archer, who is lazily leaning against the wall.

"──"

Archer looks at me, who suddenly panicked, and gives a sigh before directing an incredulous gaze at me.

"Fool, can't you see for yourself? Although there may be some scars left, most of the wounds have already healed. ──You're quite a sturdy mongrel despite having no remarkable qualities. You possess quite an interesting aspect."

With that, Archer shows a smile and calmly begins to explain what happened last night.

Apparently, after I was struck and Berserker and his Master left, my mangled body started regenerating on its own and quickly returned to its original state.

Although I came back to life, I remained unconscious, and it seems Saber carried and transported me. ...I received sarcastic comments and complaints from the Servant who didn't bother to carry their own Master, but well, for now, I'll ignore that. There are more important things that still remain.

First and foremost, the question of why I survived.

That wound was undoubtedly fatal, and I don't possess any healing or recovery magecraft. As far as I know, modern medicine cannot heal a person who has been so severely damaged overnight.

In that case, it seems someone must have helped me. Could it be that this golden Servant did something for me?

Seeing my line of thought, Archer snorts in displeasure.

"Don't misunderstand. You saved yourself with your own power. There was no room for my intervention. At least for now, I have no means to revive someone who is on the verge of death. It was you who healed your abdomen with your own power. ──Well, that might be a bit misleading. In any case, you, the mongrel, seem to possess some interesting qualities."

With those words, Archer smiles and calmly explains the events of last night.

Apparently, after I was struck and Berserker and his Master left, my mangled body began regenerating on its own and quickly returned to normal.

Even though I've come back to life, it seems I remained unconscious, and Saber carried me and brought me here. ...I received sarcastic comments and complaints from the Servant who didn't even try to carry their own Master, but well, for now, I'll ignore that. There are still many important things that need to be addressed.

First and foremost, the question of why I am alive.

That wound should have undoubtedly been fatal, and I don't possess any healing or recovery magecraft. Moreover, as far as I know, modern medicine cannot heal someone who has been so severely injured overnight.

So, someone must have helped me... Could it be that this golden Servant did something?

Seeing my train of thought, Archer snorts in displeasure.

"Don't get it wrong. You saved yourself with your own power. There was no room for me to intervene. At least for now, I don't possess the means to resurrect someone who is on the brink of death. You healed your own abdomen with your own power. ──Well, that might be a bit misleading. In any case, you, the mongrel, seem to possess some interesting traits."

With those words, Archer smiles and calmly explains the events of last night.

What he said was true. When I was stabbed by Lancer before, my heart was undoubtedly pierced, but when I noticed, it had returned to normal. Coming back from the brink of death not just once, but twice, is not something that can be attributed to mere coincidence. There is some force at work within my body.

It may be convenient, but I have no idea about it. It's unsettling to have my body change in unknown ways.

From Archer's tone, it seems he has an idea about the true nature of this power. I don't know if he will answer, but I gather the courage to ask──

"By the way──"

At that moment, Archer's smiling eyes narrow sharply.

His demeanor changes completely. His bloodstained eyes meet mine directly.

"You fool. Why did you save Saber?"

The question is implicit, conveying that lies will not be tolerated. His sharp gaze exerts pressure, and I involuntarily swallow my saliva.

The fear that rivals the one I felt when facing Berserker last night is now manifesting before me. I know that I will be killed just by this man opening his mouth, my body vanishing in the blink of an eye.

So, what should I do?

What should I do in this situation where there is only one path, which is to give the answer that satisfies this Servant? However, I don't know this man's temperament at all. I can't even predict which words will provoke Archer's wrath.

Think. Think. Think.

What did this man say? He asked me why I saved Saber.

It's not something that requires much thought. I don't need a reason to save a girl. It's only natural to want to help someone in need.

There is nothing else to it. As long as I am Emiya Shirou, I will continue to save Saber no matter how many times.

I can't lie. I can't deceive. Then, I will simply convey my true feelings in words. Without averting my gaze from Archer, I open my mouth while suppressing my trembling body.

"...Do I need a reason to help a girl?"

"Ha... Are your eyes full of holes? That woman is a Servant, a Heroic Spirit spoken of in myths, the protector of humanity, and a Hero. A hero, you see, is someone who makes the impossible possible, performs miracles as a human, and bears everything within their sight. It would be ridiculous for a mongrel like you to compare yourself to such a noble existence. ──And yet, you dare to save her? Your words are delusional, mongrel."

With contempt in his blood-soaked eyes, Archer's words pierce me like a chilling wind.

This Servant clearly means that I should know my place. The mere idea of an ordinary person like me thinking of saving a hero is insolence itself. Moreover, for such a person to be saved by someone like me is an insult in itself.

This Servant, who goes to the extreme of self-importance, undoubtedly sees even the act of accepting assistance from others as beneath him.

──But, so what?

"What does it matter?"

Even if he says that, what does it matter?

"That being said, Saber is still a human. If there is someone who can be saved, it's only natural to want to save them."

"Hmph. Are you blind or just a fool who can't see beyond his own nose?

── You should have been dead, mongrel. Did you not understand what would happen if you got close to that damned dog, Berserker?"

"Well──"

No.

I understood.

I knew. Just by looking at it, I knew that violence, that tempest, that overwhelming power. If even a fraction of it touched me, I would die.

──But. More than anything else, it was important to me to save Saber.

To be killed by Berserker? To be cut in half by his sword?

I don't know. I don't know anything about that. I don't care as long as that girl isn't killed. It's much better than watching someone die right in front of me. It's much more terrifying for Saber to be hurt than for me to be killed.

Above all, a hero cannot abandon others right before their eyes. Unlike that hell, unlike ten years ago. Unlike back then, I had the possibility of saving Saber. So, I'll bet everything on that.

Five years ago. That day, that time. Emiya Shirou pledged to become a hero of justice. If I were to do something that betrayed that, Emiya Shirou himself would no longer be able to uphold his ideal of a hero of justice──.

"──What? Do you really mean to say that someone else's life is more important than your own, you brat?"

As if seeing through my inner turmoil, Archer delivers his ruthless words.

I can't retort to those words. I'm left speechless. Looking down on me, Archer furrows his brow in annoyance.

"You fool. All acts of self-sacrifice are nothing but falsehood. Is there anyone who can save others without weighing their own life in the balance?

Even if such a person exists──they are not a saint or a hero, but the most abominable human known as a savior.

To mimic the actions of a savior Messiah, like a mongrel such as yourself? You'd better rein in your foolishness."

"...No, I'm scared of dying too. At that time, my body moved on its own, to be honest, I was out of my mind. Just remembering it makes my body tremble, and I can never become a saint-like person."

"Hmph. So you're saying that you saved Saber without thinking about it. Without any calculation or motive, you simply helped her naturally?

──That is abnormal, mongrel.

In the face of the fear of death, ordinary humans have few choices. But you, as if you didn't even consider the threat of a Servant, threw yourself in front of your own enemy to protect them.

If you had no conviction, no purpose, and simply wanted to help people, then you are a madman. No, even if you possessed something irreplaceable, your way of being is distorted."

Archer's eyes, filled with crimson flames, stare at me intensely. They evaluate me, pass judgment on me, with a seriousness that takes my breath away.

Mad. Distorted.

The silent pressure torments my body.

And as I try to resist it... I realize that Archer's words are not wrong.

Since I met him yesterday, this man has spoken nothing but straightforward logic that infuriates me. I have been refuted multiple times, and I have never been able to argue back clearly. This man's keen insight is always looking far ahead.

But... no matter what he says, I have no intention of changing myself.

For me, someone's death weighs much heavier than my own. It is unacceptable for Emiya Shirou to abandon someone.

Ten years ago, on that day when the world was consumed by flames, I abandoned countless people.

I lacked power. I had no method. I had no time. No matter how much I cry and scream now, the fact remains that I left people to die.

I remember that voice.

Help me, I don't want to die. The man who reached out and cried like that was crushed by a building and died. I faintly remember the sound that seemed like a joke, the scene of flesh flying in all directions.

"I'm fine, just save the children." The woman who pleaded like that burned to death while still alive. The image of her burning along with the baby is still etched in my mind.

That memory is the memory of my sin. Even if everything else is lost, this memory alone will remain forever.

In reality, even if I tried to help them, it would have only meant adding another dead body. But even so, there was still the possibility of saving them.

And I crushed that possibility with my own hands. I turned my back on them. I apologized, but it was a selfish apology that did nothing to help. I ran away.

All that remained were voices of resentment. The cries of countless people, filled with irrational hatred, fear of reality, and curses against God.

Turning my back on all of them. Running away, running away, running away. I kept running with the single-minded desire not to die... even though those people I abandoned felt the same way.

Running away, running away, running away. I, the cowardly human who should have been the first to die, was the only one who survived.

I can't forget it. This is my sin. I can't escape it, and the lingering thoughts of the dead will curse me forever. Indirectly, I have killed people. That guilt will cling to me for eternity.

Therefore──I can no longer abandon people. No matter what anyone says, I have decided to help people and become a hero of justice.

I'm not a savior. I'm not such a noble human. This is just a self-righteous act of atonement.

Even if I help others, I can't change the past. The facts won't change, and the dead won't come back to life. I understand that. I've known it for a long time.

But I made a promise.

I made a promise in front of my father, who was the very embodiment of a hero of justice.

──Hmph, I thought you were a hypocrite or a madman, but it seems you have a stronger core than I expected.

You are a quite unusual Master, mongrel. Even I have to admit that the stars have conspired against me."

With a displeased snort, Archer crosses his arms and leans against the wall again. He closes off his gaze, refusing to engage in further conversation.

My will probably won't reach this arrogant man. And I can't understand Archer's way of thinking in my current state either.

Rational, ready to discard anything if necessary. Completely devoid of emotions, making judgments on matters with cold-bloodedness. This Heroic Spirit is colder and more ruthless than anyone else.

However... that doesn't necessarily make him evil. It's hard to say, but this man has his own sense of integrity. In fact, although this Servant's behavior may be perceived as cold-hearted, there is not a trace of ugliness or maliciousness.

Given that he is in this state without memories, what kind of person was the real Archer? At the very least, he is not someone who can be easily approached.

"...Hm?"

Archer stirs slightly. Just then, footsteps can be heard coming from the hallway.

After a brief pause, the door swings open. Along with the refreshing air, the figure that appears──

"Oh, you're awake. How are you feeling, Emiya-kun?"

It's unmistakably her. The girl named Tohsaka Rin, who fought alongside Saber against Berserker on the hill at night, has returned.

＊＊＊

Afterward, Archer and I went downstairs to the living room and had a discussion with Tohsaka and Saber.

The first surprise came when Tohsaka proposed, "Shall we form an alliance with each other?" I wondered what had happened, and it seems that last night's encounter with Berserker was the cause.

As Tohsaka explained, heroes become stronger the more famous they are. It is not an exaggeration to call last night's Heracles one of the highest-ranking great heroes. Even a powerful Servant like Saber would be at a disadvantage against him.

Of course, Saber is also a formidable Servant. But even so, it's uncertain if she can win against Berserker alone. With almost all of her basic abilities inferior, there is no assurance that she can defeat him. Hence, until Berserker is defeated, we have decided to form an alliance... that's the flow of things.

I don't particularly want to fight against Tohsaka and Saber. I'm not mentally prepared to face them, and I'm completely unprepared in terms of knowledge, skills, and information to engage in battle.

Even if it's only for a short while, it's reassuring to have Tohsaka and the others as allies. They have also offered to guide me in my inexperienced magecraft, so I gratefully accepted their proposal for an alliance.

"─Well, with this, the contract is established. We'll be allies until Berserker is defeated."

"Nice to meet you. Emiya-kun, please take care of us from now on."

I shake hands firmly, grasping the extended hand.

"Yeah. Nice to meet you too, Tohsaka."

Tohsaka smiles satisfactorily in response to my answer. Her natural smile makes my heart skip a beat.

She's completely different from her appearance at school, but this side of Tohsaka is definitely more charming. Until now, I had forgotten, but I've never had the opportunity to hold hands with a girl, so even shaking hands like this is a rare occasion.

It's not like I have no contact with girls, but Sakura is my junior, and as for Fujinee... I'm not even sure if she can be classified as a girl.

Well, leaving that aside. It's not only Tohsaka who will be joining our alliance. I should properly greet Saber as well.

I turn to face Saber and extend my right hand. Saber, who has changed into casual clothes like Archer, looks like an ordinary girl when seen like this.

"...?"

Saber looks at my hand with a puzzled expression.

Oh right, I haven't even introduced myself properly to her yet.

"I haven't even greeted Saber properly. I'm Emiya Shirou. Nice to meet you, Saber."

Upon hearing that, Saber's expression changes to one of understanding. She returns my handshake firmly with a gentle smile.

"Yes. Nice to meet you, Shirou."

A calm voice resonates gently in my ears.

Her jade green eyes, which calmly gaze at me, are incredibly beautiful, unlike anything I've ever seen before. Unconsciously, my heartbeat quickens.

It's a little late to realize, but Saber is incredibly beautiful. Archer also possesses an otherworldly beauty, but it gives off a sense of being detached from the ordinary. Instead of admiration, I feel a mix of awe and fear when faced with it.

But Saber is different. It's like a natural beauty. While brimming with humanity, she has the appearance of a perfect doll. Seeing such a girl smiling before me has an extraordinary impact.

"──Shirou, there's something I want to tell you before forming an alliance."

Out of the blue, Saber directs her anger towards me in a voice as cold as ice. Her sudden change catches me off guard.

"Shirou, why did you protect me?"

"Why? Well──"

Because otherwise, Saber would have died.

It was the same content I was just questioned about by Archer. Although I feel unpleasant about discussing it again, it's only natural for Saber to ask me about it.

I give Saber the same answer I gave Archer. No matter how many times anyone asks, my true feelings won't change.

In response, Saber's expression becomes even more displeased, and she glares at me sharply.

"You are Archer's Master, correct? If you claim to be my Master, I can understand why you would try to help me.

However, I am a Servant who, in principle, should be opposed to you. I would prefer if you refrained from such actions as helping the enemy."

"But Saber, you're going to be on our side, right? So it's only natural to help."

"No. For a Servant, it would be more helpful to strictly fulfill your role as a Master. Combat is my domain, so please don't think about protecting me. There is no need for that, and if you were to die in vain for such a thing, even a Servant wouldn't be able to protect you."

Indirectly, Saber is saying that assistance itself is a nuisance.

As Archer also mentioned, Heroic Spirits exist on a higher plane than humans. In the first place, they don't need human assistance. The situation from last night should have been an impossible occurrence.

I understand. I, who have no power, cannot possibly help a Servant. What happened last night was purely coincidental. It was a stroke of incredible luck, like grabbing a grain of gold sand from a desert. If the same situation were to happen again, I would undoubtedly die, and I wouldn't be able to help Saber.

But even so.

In front of my eyes... a girl was wounded. It's strange to just let that happen without doing anything.

──Saber covered in blood, beaten and battered.

To witness such a sight multiple times... that reality is simply unacceptable.

Although Saber appears to be in a normal state now, it doesn't mean it's acceptable for her to be injured just because she will heal.

"──Hmph. Going against my advice, that's what it means. Stop with the useless preaching, Saber. I won't listen to the words of a mongrel like you."

Archer, who was calmly sitting alone, spoke out.

Even when approached with the proposal of an alliance, he only responded with "Do as you wish." This Servant who didn't even show interest in me was now directing his gaze towards Saber as if warning her. There was no sign of the teasing expression he had last night.

What kind of change of heart has he undergone? Archer earnestly tried to stop Saber.

"What do you mean, Archer? It's the duty of the Servant, who is originally superior, to restrain the inappropriate actions of their Master."

"Hmph. That boy is not the kind of person you think he is, Saber. ──Well, it's true that he was chosen for the Holy Grail War without even having the slightest talent. There's no reason for him to be normal."

The two Heroic Spirits confront each other, locking their eyes in a gaze of crimson and emerald. Despite being discussed right in front of me, I can't interject in the presence of their atmosphere.

...I've been thinking this since last night, but it seems that these two don't get along well. As soon as they open their mouths, they immediately start arguing.

Tohsaka lets out a sigh, as if saying she can't stand it anymore.

Since last night, Tohsaka has been the one stopping the quarrels between the two Servants. Ordinary people's fights and clashes between Heroic Spirits are on completely different levels. Considering that it could lead to massive destruction like last night, the trouble Tohsaka goes through is beyond ordinary.

Archer's arrogant attitude is also one of the causes of the conflicts, so as a Master, I should try to stop them... but as they are arguing about me, the person involved, intervening would only complicate matters further.

"Forget about Emiya-kun and let's have a more constructive discussion, shall we? For example, our future strategy."

Tohsaka turns towards me with an expression that seems to say she can't stand it anymore.

"Hmm? Isn't it about forming an alliance until we defeat Berserker?"

"That's the conclusion. But what we haven't discussed at all is how we're going to defeat Berserker."

Ah, now that she mentions it, that's true.

Even with the two of them, we couldn't match that giant Berserker. It's evident that without a plan, we would be completely overpowered.

What we should be thinking about now is how to confront the realistic threat. Since this alliance was formed solely to defeat Berserker, we shouldn't forget that premise.

"In short, we can't defeat that Berserker with just us."

Tohsaka states firmly, leaving me dumbfounded.

Judging from the serious expression on Saber's face, it must be true. However... it's not a matter of it being difficult to win, but rather that we can't win at all.

Saber fought Berserker on equal footing just earlier. Even if she was ultimately defeated, she fought Berserker head-on.

Certainly, she was constantly pushed back, but that was because Berserker took the initiative and didn't give Saber a chance to counterattack. If we take the initiative, we don't know how the battle will turn out.

"Of course, I don't think we'll lose. Even if their Servant is powerful, my Saber is special too.

However, it's not only Berserker who is exceptional. That Master... that girl named Illyasviel is also far from normal. Rather, it might be more accurate to say that she is the strange one."

"Eh──?"

I remember. The white girl standing next to Berserker, like snow.

It's difficult to believe that such a small girl is participating in the Holy Grail War as a Master, but common sense doesn't apply in the world of magecraft. That's just how it is, and I have no choice but to understand it.

But──even if I understand it, it doesn't mean I can accept it. It's wrong for a girl like that to participate in a war where people are being killed.

"If one side, either the Servant or the Master, is superior, there's no reason for me and Saber to lose. ...However, both of them being superior to us is tough. Even if we confront them head-on, winning will be difficult."

So we have to think of a way to defeat that monster somehow... The most troublesome thing is its regenerative ability."

"Mmm," Tohsaka groans.

That's right. Even if we have high attacking power, it's enough to defeat it before it can hit us. If it doesn't hit us, guns and swords are meaningless.

However, what makes that Servant unfair is not just its regenerative ability, which even Archer's arrows couldn't kill, but also its ability to quickly heal wounds. Unless we do something about that, we have no chance of winning.

"That's not all. That damned Berserker's Noble Phantasm is nothing more than a byproduct of its regenerative ability."

"Do you know something, Archer?"

Saber asks Archer, who intervened. It seems that Archer and Saber don't get along well, as his tone remains stern.

On the other hand, the golden-haired youth sitting nonchalantly, with a carefree smile on his face, directs his gaze towards Saber. I wonder what he finds amusing; this Servant always seems to be in a good mood when facing Saber.

"To be more accurate, I saw through it rather than just knowing. That Berserker surpasses your imagination. You all didn't seem to notice, but my arrows have killed Berserker once before. Nevertheless, it revived from death like it was nothing. Hmph... It's not uncommon for heroes who cannot be defeated no matter how much you cut or burn them. But to think that there is a man who truly comes back from death. It seems that killing it once or twice won't be enough to destroy that mad dog."

"Huh!?"

Saber's expression froze in astonishment. Her widened eyes seemed to say it was impossible.

"W-What...!?"

No way, seriously?

Saber fought desperately and got injured, Archer used his weapons, and Tohsaka supported us, and only then did we manage to land a blow. Even the possibility of landing an attack was questionable, let alone killing it multiple times.

A monster with abilities that even two Servants combined can't match. That kind of thing surviving just by being killed once or twice is absurd.

So, how can we defeat it? If there is an existence that can make the impossible possible, then it would be like a god. It's impossible for that power to surpass the abilities of Saber and Archer, who should be on the same level as Heroic Spirits.

"...Wait a minute. Archer, how did you see through that?"

Tohsaka glares at Archer, recalling something.

In response... Archer, who remains seated, even goes so far as to yawn in boredom.

"Well then, I don't know the details of the reasoning, but it seems that my eyes can see through most things.

What that man possesses is a Noble Phantasm that sublimates his legends into a weapon. Its true value lies not in regeneration but in its ability to resurrect. It means that he has the accumulation of lives equal to the number of trials he has overcome.

The curse-blessing given to him by the gods, 'God Hand of Twelve Labors.' Even if you try to bring him to death, his body won't be easily affected by half-hearted attacks.

Hmm... I don't know much about it, but if we're going to confront that Berserker, we'll need to come up with an appropriate strategy. We'll do our best."

Archer behaves as if it's someone else's problem.

His demeanor remains light even in the presence of the three of us taking it seriously. His disinterested gaze seems to be looking at a boring movie, directed towards us.

Saber directs a gaze filled with anger towards Archer, who nonchalantly reveals such incredible information. Even Tohsaka, with a disgruntled expression, glares at Archer.

The atmosphere quickly becomes tense. If things continue like this, the newly formed alliance might fall apart.

...To be honest, I'm a little irritated too. Even if Archer doesn't have the motivation, the three of us are having a serious discussion. It's hard not to think, "Who does he think he is?" when he blatantly shows an attitude of not caring.

"Archer. You say it's not your fight, but does that mean you don't care about the Holy Grail War at all?"

Saber opens her mouth to reproach Archer but gets interrupted by someone else. In response, Archer smirks as if saying, "Didn't I tell you?".

"I said it before, this war was never mine to begin with. Since it's not my own battle, I have no attachments. Victory or defeat is yours, mongrel. Your path is for you to decide."

Saber glares at Archer with eyes full of anger after hearing those words. For someone as earnest as her, Archer's words and actions cannot be overlooked.

However... strangely, I didn't feel angry at his words.

Although they are dismissive and blunt, in essence, this man is telling me to do as I please. His words even seem to encourage me, and the words I wanted to say next come to a halt.

Despite saying he doesn't care, he provides information about Berserker.

Despite saying it's not his fight, he fights as the Servant of an inexperienced Master.

Despite claiming not to be attached, he supports us.

This golden Heroic Spirit is truly incomprehensible. It seems full of contradictions, yet sometimes there is a logical thread, while other times there is no consistency. Perhaps such a human is what is meant by an existence beyond understanding... well, no, he's not even a human to begin with.

"Sigh... well, whatever. Archer, is it true what you said about Berserker's Noble Phantasm?"

With Saber containing her anger and me keeping quiet, Tohsaka continues to question Archer.

"Yes. I don't lie, believe it. With the use of top-class armaments, it might be possible to diminish his lives."

Upon hearing those words, Tohsaka lets out an unexpected sound, like a gasp from an unsuitable girl. Well, yeah, I want to say the same thing.

Isn't that cheating?

If we plan carefully and luck is on our side, we might be able to defeat that monster once or maybe twice. We have two Servants on our side, and Archer's arrows were able to wound Berserker. So there is a possibility of inflicting a fatal blow.

However... if we're talking about twelve times, it's clearly impossible no matter how you look at it.

Even if Archer's weapons were effective, they wouldn't work on an opponent who can see through the same move multiple times. Where on earth can we find such a thing?

What should we do? I tilt my head. Tohsaka also groans with a troubled expression.

"Well, that's an unfair Noble Phantasm... Lancer's spear still looks cute compared to that. Do you have any such Noble Phantasm that you can use, Archer? You said you have no memories, but have you remembered anything?"

"No."

As soon as Tohsaka asks that, Archer's expression clouds over.

"Judging from being able to use weapons, it seems that this body remembers the past. If that's the case, I might remember my memories at some point. But I can't assert when that will happen. Is it after an hour, a day, a week? It's annoying, but even that is unclear. Since my memories haven't returned, I can't use my Noble Phantasm. Therefore, don't expect my assistance."

Tohsaka sighs, once again expressing her exasperation. I want to say that sighing will scare away happiness, but I refrain from poking the hornet's nest.

"...Well, that can't be helped."

"Uh? Did you say something, little girl?"

"It's nothing.

...Phew. Until Archer's memories return, we have no choice but to manage things ourselves."

With a resigned shake of her head, Tohsaka quickly begins to summarize the plan.

According to Saber, her Noble Phantasm has the potential to defeat that Berserker. However, it has poor fuel efficiency and too wide of an attack range, making it unsuitable for use in a location close to residential areas like yesterday.

On the other hand, Archer seems to be able to freely use those dual blades he showed yesterday. The dual blades that can also transform into a bow and the golden, sturdy armor are our current weapons. We have to make do with just these.

As a tactical plan disregarding the Servants, there is also a means of defeating Ilyasviel, the Master... but that would be difficult and, above all, something I absolutely don't want to do.

So, the plan has been decided.

Instead of launching a direct attack, we will lure Berserker into a favorable location—namely, a place where Saber can use her Noble Phantasm.

If Berserker takes the bait as planned, Saber, supported by Archer, will use her Noble Phantasm to defeat Berserker... that's the plan.

...However, this basic strategy hastily put together has many flaws.

First, if we fail to lure Berserker, the plan will fall apart right then and there. If we are caught off guard as we were yesterday, we will be trampled upon by that violence without being able to do anything.

Second, there is no guarantee that we can definitively kill Berserker. Saber's Noble Phantasm is indeed powerful, but if Archer's speculation is correct, that Heroic Spirit possesses both defensive and revival abilities. If we can't surpass them, we will be defeated instead.

And third, we lack information. If that Servant has other Noble Phantasms or abilities, we cannot devise countermeasures without knowing about them.

Although we can make assumptions based on the revealed True Name, it has become clear just how extraordinary that Heroic Spirit is. With tales of overcoming numerous monsters and gods through twelve trials, along with the various tools he used, such as a club, bow and arrows, and a golden cup. If he possesses all of these as Noble Phantasms, our chances of success become even bleaker.

Even in such unfavorable circumstances, we have no choice but to fight. Even if we have no intention of fighting, they will undoubtedly come to kill us.

For the time being, the great hero Heracles will be the obstacle of the Holy Grail War.

Once we overcome that, what should I do? Can I fight alongside Tohsaka and Saber? I still haven't found any answers.

...For now, I just have the resolve to prevent a tragedy like ten years ago from happening again. With that alone, I can continue moving forward.

＊＊＊

Late at night.

In the silence of a night when everyone has gone to sleep, I exhale alone in the storeroom. The clear night air permeates every nook and cranny, creating a pleasant sensation.

Unlike yesterday, there are no attacks from Lancer. Archer also doesn't suddenly appear. As if the commotion from before was a lie, this place maintains its usual tranquility.

Even after such an incident, nothing has changed here. This storeroom, which I've used as my playground for nearly ten years, is more comforting to me than any other place.

After a lengthy conversation earlier in the morning, Tohsaka and Saber ended up staying at my house due to the reason of forming an alliance.

Since there are plenty of rooms available, I decided to let them use a separate building. Tohsaka seemed to have brought something from her place, but I hope it's not something that has been heavily modified.

It seems Tohsaka and the others are tired as well, as the lights in the separate building have been off for quite some time. That person adapted to my environment surprisingly quickly, to the point of being unfazed by it.

Archer should be in the room next to mine. That arrogant Servant, after calling my house a hovel, reluctantly agreed to live in one of the rooms here under the overwhelming pressure of Saber's anger.

While it may be questionable for everyone to be asleep in the midst of a war over the Holy Grail, this house has a bounded field, and apparently, Servants can sense any abnormalities even without sleep. Although normally Servants don't need to sleep, Saber said she would rest today to recover her magical energy, as the damage from last night still lingers.

"...Phew."

I take a deep breath and calm my mind filled with distractions. The cool night air helps clear my consciousness.

I came here today to resume the magecraft training I skipped yesterday.

To be honest, I had considered taking a day off today, but that would be disrespectful to my deceased father who worked so hard. And above all... when I stop training, it's myself that becomes dull. Such laziness is not permissible for Emiya Shirou. It would be presumptuous for someone who can't even keep their own oath to try to help others. Moreover, abandoning my own training just because I'm "busy" is absolutely unforgivable.

Aiming for my ideal, I have decided to fight. If that's the case, can I afford to stay stagnant in a place like this?

With renewed determination, I reach for the old radio lying nearby.

This is something Fujimura-nee always brings from somewhere. I thought I could still use it if I fixed it, so I took it out a few days ago. Today's training is to repair this.

...But it's not just about fixing it. Naturally, I will use magecraft for the repair.

Analyzing objects. That's what I'll be training today.

It's nothing too significant. For other magi, it's probably something they can do without thinking. But for me, the number of usable magecraft techniques is limited. That's why I train with the techniques I have.

Although I can use magecraft such as reinforcement and projection, I start with the basics. After skipping a day, it would be surprising if I could successfully handle a difficult field right away.

I bring my mind back to reality and focus on the radio in my hand. After channeling my magical energy throughout my body, there is only one thing left to do.

"─Synchro Trace, Begin."

Analyze the structure. Survey the entire machine and identify the broken parts.

...Alright, got it.

Seems like the frequency modulation circuit that converts radio waves into sound is malfunctioning. It probably broke at some point.

Once I determine the part that needs repair, the rest is easy. I skillfully use the usual screwdriver and start disassembling the radio. I remove the damaged capacitors and replace them with new ones. The parts I bought at a store on a whim proved useful.

After finishing the necessary work, I replace the batteries. When I press the switch, sound flows out of the slightly worn-out speaker.

Hmm, it's working fine now. Due to the malfunctioning parts, it couldn't receive radio waves properly before, but now it's functioning as intended.

It seems that fewer people listen to the radio these days due to the prevalence of the internet, but I don't mind. Staring at a screen can strain the eyes, but with the radio, there's no such concern.

While thinking about what time it is now, I tune in to the channel. ...Since the date is about to change, it's probably time for the news.

I switch the channel to the frequency of a local program I occasionally listen to. Before long, familiar music starts playing, followed by today's news.

"─Early yesterday morning, there was a report to the police about 'suspicious figures seen' in the southern part of Fuyuki City. When the police arrived at the reported location, bloodstains were found on the premises of the house, leading the police to suspect that Mr. and Mrs. Saito, who were unable to be contacted, may have been involved in some sort of incident. Furthermore, since the Saito residence was locked at the time of the incident, the police are leaning toward the possibility of a planned crime. Similar incidents have been occurring frequently in Fuyuki City lately──"

...Hmm?

It's a report about an incident, just like any other. But for some reason, it feels strangely unsettling.

A report from a resident.

Despite being locked, the person who made the report is missing.

Only bloodstains were left behind.

And in addition, these kinds of incidents have been happening frequently lately──?

"Is it the doing of a Servant...?"

The possibility that comes to mind. Among those possibilities, that's undoubtedly the highest.

The strange incidents that have been occurring frequently recently can undoubtedly be attributed to the Holy Grail War. To ordinary people who know nothing, these inexplicable matters involving magecraft can only be perceived as "weird incidents." Perhaps it would be wise to pay closer attention to the daily news.

However... ordinary people are getting involved, it seems. I don't know the purpose, but the fact that similar incidents are happening repeatedly indicates that the culprit has a clear objective.

I want to go and stop it immediately, but I am currently too powerless. I have nothing I can do, and I can't act recklessly.

So for now... I will just train myself to become a hero who can save people. If there's someone causing trouble for ordinary people, I will definitely stop them.

Since the Holy Grail War is something that will kick out all the Servants──I will eventually encounter the person responsible for these heinous acts. That will be the time to put an end to such atrocities.

I gather my focus and immerse myself in my own thoughts. Today, it seems I can concentrate even more than usual.

──The chirping sound of insects. That was the only thing that felt oddly discordant.