So your not coming

Arthur looked at Semiramis. So your not joining.

Semiramis who just gave him the food he other from Amakusa shop. I am saying neutral just like Ruler.

Ophelia just looked at her. Why, the war will start in 2 day's

Semiramis smirked slightly, her expression calm as she set down the tray of food. "Just because the war is about to reach its climax doesn't mean I'm obligated to pick a side. My role has always been more strategic, and aligning myself now would only complicate things."

Arthur studied her for a moment before responding, "You're a formidable presence, Semiramis. If you chose a side, it could shift the balance of power significantly."

Ophelia, sensing the importance of the situation, pressed further. "Is it really neutrality you're after, or do you have your own plans? In a war like this, no one stays neutral for long."

Semiramis's eyes flickered with amusement. "I assure you, my dear Ophelia, that neutrality suits me just fine. I've seen enough wars to know that the true victors are often those who wait in the shadows, letting others fight their battles."

Arthur sighed, understanding that pushing her further wouldn't yield results. "Very well, but remember, when the time comes, standing on the sidelines might not be an option."

Semiramis simply nodded, her enigmatic smile never fading. "We'll see, Arthur. We'll see."

Arthur then looked at Amakusa who was Cookinh. What about your ruler

Amakusa just looked at him. Just doing my job as a ruler

Arthur nodded, understanding the subtlety in Amakusa's words. "Keeping the balance, I assume?"

Amakusa, while stirring a pot, gave a small smile. "Indeed. As Ruler, my role isn't to tip the scales, but to ensure that the war proceeds fairly. My position allows me to observe, guide when necessary, and intervene only when the situation demands it."

Ophelia crossed her arms, still uneasy. "But you're aware that this war has already spiraled beyond the usual rules. With so many extra Servants and hidden agendas, how can you remain so detached?"

Amakusa looked at Ophelia, his expression calm but with a hint of resolve. "Detached, yes. But not uninvolved. My priority is to ensure that the Grail War doesn't lead to unnecessary destruction or suffering. I've seen the horrors that unchecked ambition can bring. This time, I intend to guide the participants toward a more controlled conclusion."

Arthur took a deep breath, appreciating Amakusa's dedication but knowing the reality of their situation. "Let's hope that your guidance is enough. With only two days left until the official start, things are bound to escalate."

Amakusa nodded in agreement. "True. But as long as I'm here, I'll do what I can to keep the war from consuming everyone involved. Sometimes, a quiet hand guiding from behind the scenes can be the most effective strategy of all."

Semiramis watched the exchange, her eyes glinting with curiosity. "You rulers are all the same, trying to manage chaos. It will be interesting to see how well you can maintain that balance when everything finally comes to a head."

Amakusa didn't reply, instead returning his focus to his cooking, leaving the conversation hanging in the air as the tension of the approaching conflict loomed over them all.

With Karna and Le Loi they were looking at Extra rider, they were at the Egyptian section, as The Extra rider was Achilles.

Le Loi looked at him. So will you join us

In the Egyptian section, Karna and Le Loi were searching for the Extra Caster. After some inquiries and following leads, they arrived at a grand, ancient temple that had been recently renovated. The majestic architecture and hieroglyphs alluded to a time of powerful pharaohs and sorcery.

As they entered, they were greeted by a figure who exuded an aura of both regal dignity and mystic power. The Extra Caster, Nitocris, stood in her ceremonial attire—a stunning combination of ancient Egyptian elegance and sorcery. Her dark eyes sparkled with a mix of curiosity and confidence, and her headdress and flowing robes only enhanced her imposing presence.

Nitocris approached them with an air of calm authority. "Greetings, travelers. I am Nitocris, the Extra Caster of this war. What brings you to my domain?"

Le Loi stepped forward, his demeanor respectful. "Lady Nitocris, we seek your cooperation. We are aware of the challenges that lie ahead and believe that your skills and wisdom would be invaluable to our cause."

Nitocris tilted her head slightly, intrigued. "Is that so? And what exactly is your cause, if I may ask? The Holy Grail War is fraught with danger, and aligning oneself with a side requires considerable thought."

Karna, ever the straightforward warrior, nodded in agreement. "We aim to ensure that the power of the Grail is used for a purpose that benefits all, not just a select few. We seek to avoid unnecessary destruction and chaos."

Nitocris considered his words carefully. "A noble goal, indeed. But the Grail War is often a game of power and deceit. Why should I trust that your intentions are genuine?"

Le Loi responded calmly, "We understand your skepticism. Our goal is to use the Grail's power to foster peace and stability, not to serve selfish desires. We believe that with your assistance, we can achieve this."

Nitocris's eyes narrowed as she studied them. "And what do you offer in return for my allegiance? I am a queen and a sorceress, bound by my own codes and responsibilities."

Le Loi smiled reassuringly. "We offer a partnership built on mutual respect and shared goals. If you choose to join us, we will ensure that your powers are used wisely and that your needs and concerns are addressed."

Nitocris's expression softened as she regarded the sincerity in their eyes. "Very well. I shall consider your proposal. However, I require more information and assurances before I make my decision."

Karna nodded. "Of course. Take the time you need. We are here to provide any additional details or support you might require."

Nitocris took a moment to ponder their offer. "In the meantime, if you wish to understand my domain better, I would be happy to provide you with a tour of my temple. It may help you to see the full extent of what I can offer."

As they followed Nitocris through the temple, Le Loi and Karna observed her command over ancient magics and her regal bearing. The temple was a testament to her power and the deep respect she commanded.

Meanwhile, Ritsuka, Ereskigal, and the rest of the team were at the base, preparing for the upcoming challenges. Ritsuka addressed everyone, "We've made significant progress in locating the extra Servants. With Nitocris and the others, we are steadily building our strength."

Mash, focused and determined, added, "We need to ensure our strategies are solid and our alliances are strong. The war will soon reach its climax."

Ophelia, monitoring the situation, provided an update. "The other factions are also preparing for the final stages of the war. It's crucial that we stay vigilant and adaptable."

As the official start of the Grail War approached, the team knew that every decision and action would be critical. With new allies like Nitocris potentially on their side, they prepared for the trials that lay ahead, knowing that their resolve and strategy would determine their fate.

Ritsuka turned to the group, trying to manage the mix of reactions. "So, we've gathered most of the extra Servants. Here's the current status: Ereshkigal and I have recruited Extra Rider, Tamamo Aria."

Tamamo Aria waved cheerfully. "Hello, everyone! I'm Tamamo Aria."

Kadoc nodded. "We've managed to secure Extra Berserk."

Le Loi and Karna added, "We have Extra Caster, Nitocris."

Ophelia and Arthur reported, "We attempted to recruit Semiramis, but she has decided to remain neutral."

Mash and Morgan then spoke up. "We've acquired Extra Archer, Zhong Yu."

Zhong Yu looked at the group with determination. "I have decided to join."

Sen No Rikyu, the Extra Berserk, turned to Ritsuka with a curious look. "It's a pleasure to meet you. I believe you are the leader?"

Ritsuka nodded, slightly taken aback by the directness. "Yes, I suppose you could call me that."

Sen No Rikyu's eyes softened as she continued. "You look quite handsome. Perhaps you would consider having me as a wife?"

At this, Mash, Morgan, Ophelia, and Ereshkigal moved protectively in front of Ritsuka. From his shadow, Marie Alter appeared, and from his mind, BB manifested. All three of them glared at Sen No Rikyu with clear disapproval.

Kadoc, watching the scene unfold, muttered, "Don't even think about asking for help from me, Ritsuka. I want no part in whatever this harem business is."

Ritsuka, trying to defuse the situation, said, "Let's all keep focused on our objectives. We need to prepare for the final stages of the war."

Sen No Rikyu, sensing the tension, raised her hands in a gesture of peace. "My apologies if I overstepped. I am here to assist and support you in the coming challenges."

With the immediate conflict diffused, the group began to discuss their plans and strategies, each member contributing their expertise as they prepared for the final confrontations of the Holy Grail War.

As the group began to regroup and discuss their next steps, the atmosphere was charged with a mix of relief and tension. Each Servant and Master had their own perspective on the unfolding situation, and the urgency of the approaching end of the Holy Grail War loomed over them.

Ritsuka called everyone to attention. "Alright, we've got our extra Servants, and now we need to strategize. We have two days until the official start of the Holy Grail War. We need to be ready for anything."

Karna looked around the room. "We should gather as much information as possible about the remaining Servants. We still don't know the identities of the remaining classes. Knowing our opponents' strengths and weaknesses will be crucial."

Le Loi nodded. "I agree. Our priority should be finding out who the other Masters are and what their objectives might be. They might have formed alliances or set traps."

Nitocris, who had been silent until now, spoke up. "I'll use my abilities to probe for magical signatures. I might be able to detect any concealed Servants or Masters in the vicinity."

Tamamo Aria, sitting somewhat nervously, added, "If you need any assistance with reconnaissance or divination, I'm here to help. I may not be a fighter, but I can provide support in other ways."

Ritsuka appreciated the offer. "Thank you, Tamamo. We'll definitely make use of your skills."

Kadoc and Anastasia were a room with Sen No Rikyū. They sipped their tea in relative silence, each contemplating their next move.

Kadoc broke the silence. "So, Sen No Rikyū, what's your stance on joining the conflict? You mentioned staying neutral earlier. Has that changed?"

Sen No Rikyū sighed softly. "I remain neutral for now, but if the situation demands it, I might reconsider. My primary concern is preserving the balance and ensuring that neither side tips too far."

Anastasia looked thoughtful. "That's understandable. If things get out of hand, we might need to call upon you for assistance."

Sen No Rikyū gave a nod. "I'll be ready."

The team was deep in discussion. Morgan turned to Ritsuka. "We should also consider reinforcing our defenses. With the war starting soon, we could be facing unexpected attacks."

Arthur agreed. "Yes, securing our base and ensuring our allies are well-prepared is essential. We should also establish communication lines to coordinate with any other Masters who might be willing to ally with us."

Ereshkigal, looking contemplative, added, "I can assist with setting up defensive wards and magical barriers. They will help protect us from surprise attacks."

Marie Alter and BB, still present from Ritsuka's shadow and mind respectively, observed the proceedings with interest. BB leaned closer to Marie Alter and whispered, "Do you think this war will be as chaotic as the last one?"

Marie Alter's eyes glinted with amusement. "It's hard to say, but with Ritsuka's harem and all the personalities involved, it's bound to be quite entertaining."

BB chuckled. "True. It seems like this war is shaping up to be a spectacle of epic proportions."

As the day drew to a close, the group took time to prepare for the inevitable battles ahead. Tamamo Aria worked alongside Nitocris, performing rituals and scanning for magical traces. The others were busy setting up defensive measures and planning their strategies.

Ritsuka gathered his closest allies. "We've done what we can for now. Get some rest and be ready for anything. Tomorrow will be critical, and we need to be at our best."

With that, the group dispersed to their quarters, each preparing for the final stretch of the Holy Grail War. The sense of urgency and anticipation hung in the air as the countdown to the conflict's official start continued. The next two days would determine the fate of all involved, and everyone was readying themselves for the challenges to come.

To be continued

Next Ch has R18 and give me power stones