Lie

Besides the holy spring, after Medb drank her fill of water, she lazily wore a pleasant expression and then fell into a peculiar state of confusion like someone who got heavily drunk, gazing at the sun and making strange "aba aba aba" sounds. Essentially, she became useless.

At the same time, Artorius and Mordred's next destination was Camelot. Because their final target was none other than Merlin.

Although Artorius had also attempted to find that guy, Merlin, in dreams, he couldn't locate him no matter what.

Who knows where that guy ran off to, flirting with flowers and grass, or perhaps he was avoiding Artorius and didn't want to meet him?

The former scenario was somewhat better. Artorius would eventually encounter him in Camelot. However, if it was the latter, the situation remained uncertain.

===

Heading to Camelot would take several more days. So today, Artorius was sleeping on the shores of Wales.

This barren mountainous region was one of the last refuges for the Celts in history.

After enduring the invasions of the Anglo-Saxons and Vikings, the Celts of Wales eventually succumbed to the tides of time.

The 'Norman Invasion' led by William, the illegitimate son from Normandy, is also one of the most famous events in English history.

He defeated the Anglo-Saxons in England, established the rule of the Norman dynasty, and attacked Wales. Through cunning tactics and superior military strength, he forced the Welsh to acknowledge his son as their leader.

Since then, successive English princes have held the title of 'Prince of Wales'. Although Wales still existed from a legal perspective, in practical terms, Wales had been annexed by Britain.

'It's quite ironic, huh...' Artorius couldn't help but think. He also reflected on the popular three kings banquet that became famous in later eras from 'Fate/Zero'. Looking back now, both Gilgamesh and Alexander seemed to speak without reservation.

Of course, Gilgamesh must know much more, viewing things from a different perspective. As for Alexander, he had lived his whole life carefree and joyful, so even if he met his demise, it wouldn't matter to him.

With this realization, Artorius closed his eyes and entered the dreamland once again.

This time, nothing strange happened. The path in the dream was clear, directly leading to Avalon.

Artorius: "..."

Well, this kind of situation is quite common too.

Moreover, upon careful consideration, going to Avalon to comfort Vivian was one of Artorius's predetermined goals, wasn't it?

It had been five or six days since he last saw Vivian. There was a two-day gap from their regular encounters. If this continued, the fairy might turn dark again and become a yandere fairy. Dealing with that situation wouldn't be good.

So today, Artorius also feigned exhaustion and enjoyed the facial cleanser from his big sister.

Truly, fairies were amazing creatures.

They wouldn't age, and their personalities wouldn't change. No matter how long had passed, their spirits remained as firm as ever. They were truly a wonderful indulgence for men.

"So, have you been busy these past few days?"

Unlike Artorius's concern about Vivian being upset due to his late arrival, it was quite the opposite. In his somewhat surprised state, the other party was showing concern for him.

Because Artorius had previously appeared troubled, Vivian, as the kind and amiable big sister, felt it was her duty to help Artorius overcome his worries. Whether in daily life, on a spiritual level, or in matters of the body, it was all the same.

"In fact... well, it's nothing." As Artorius said this, he thought, 'Finally it's coming to an end.'

The so-called 'end' naturally referred to finally revealing the situation and then pleading for Vivian's help.

"What exactly is going on?"

This time, Vivian was determined. She was resolved to make Artorius speak about his difficulties.

"We're family right?" Vivian gently said to him. "Artorius is my beloved. Since my beloved is facing difficulties, I must help, I must alleviate Artorius's troubles."

"Vivian..."

Watching Vivian's sincere expression, Artorius was genuinely moved—his emotions were not feigned; he was truly touched from the bottom of his heart.

Despite Artorius's sly and manipulative nature, and his penchant for lying and deception, he was genuinely a good child. The reason he did all of that was also for the greater good.

Being a good child, it was only natural for him to feel moved when he encountered such sincere treatment from a big sister.

In addition to the sense of being moved, there was also a hint of guilt. After all, the other person treated him so well, yet he still intended to deceive her.

'But it doesn't matter anyway. I'm sure Vivian will be fine.'

After the fleeting pang of guilt dissipated, Artorius wore a solemn expression and said to his big sister, Vivian, "It's about the life and death of our Britain, and it's been haunting me day and night."

"Oh... I see." Vivian responded.

Upon hearing Artorius's reason, the fairy Vivian displayed an expression that seemed to say, "Just as I expected."

If Artorius didn't disclose his difficulties, Vivian would naturally make her own guesses.

The result of her speculation was as follows:

As someone at the top of Britain and a serious, responsible good child (from Vivian's perspective), upon learning that his country was on the verge of destruction, he would naturally feel distressed, troubled, and would desperately try to find a solution to salvage everything. Just like this child's mother, Artoria.

"Isn't it already being resolved?"

Vivian comforted Artorius and said, "The Knights of the Round Table are all searching for the Holy Grail. Once you obtain it, this matter can be resolved, right? Britain can be saved, right?"

"Is that really the case?"

Listening to the fairy's words, Artorius looked at her earnestly and asked.

"Of course, it's true. Trust your big sister," Vivian replied.

"..."

Under Artorius's sincere gaze, the fairy couldn't help but avert her eyes shyly.

As one of the most exceptional mages in the waning Age of Gods, Vivian had some understanding of 'Fate' and 'Proper Human History'.

She knew that Britain in the Age of Gods was fated to perish. It was a predetermined event. In order to ensure the accuracy of proper human history, the Counter Force would spare no effort to ensure its completion.

And even if, hypothetically, Britain defied fate and managed to save itself, that wouldn't guarantee redemption and happiness. On the contrary, it would become an existence akin to a 'Lostbelt' and be judged by the World.

So, the idea of 'obtaining the Holy Grail can save Britain from its doomed fate' was nothing more than a gentle yet cruel consolation.

To put it more seriously and realistically, it was a goddamn 'lie'.