Fate/Broken Melody Chapter 6: Saber vs Lancer

"Oh, Atalanta."

Medea calmly stated after putting down a glass of wine. She sat leisurely within her own workshop as she swirled the alcohol in her hand. Humming slightly in response. As per usual, her face was still mostly obscured by her hood, with only the bottom of her face and nose being exposed to light.

She seemed…abnormally understanding about the situation. Much more than she was when I had told her about Heracles. It was rather peculiar.

Especially keeping in mind that she and Atalanta were rather close friends on the Argo. Or at least that was how I saw it.

"…You're taking this rather well."

I commented, causing her to to look in my direction. Tilting her wine glass towards me.

"She's of course a threat to be dealt with, but it's still much better than the worst case scenario."

"Worst case scenario?"

I parroted, causing Medea to nod.

"Yes. Chiron."

A brief moment of silence befell the both of us. As if to further drive her point home, causing me to look around the room for a bit. Looking at the walls and strange potions laying on a nearby table. Before finally coughing and speaking up.

"…I think Atalanta is…a bigger threat though?"

Medea frowned at that.

"Mmm? No. Chiron as in the teacher of Heracles, not Charon."

There was multiple things wrong with that sentence, but I decided to not comment on most of them.

"I'm aware. Ah, right. Chiron taught uh..."

"He did."

I trailed off a bit, only for Medea to finish my sentence. A bit of an edge in her voice as she did so. Causing me to think about my choice of words more carefully.

"So you met Chiron then?"

Medea shook her head.

"No. That was before he had even set sail on the Argo. I never met him myself."

Huh.

"But you still think Chiron is stronger? Why?"

"He taught Heracles, Achilles, Perseus and Asclepius. Each a monster in their own right. He's a legend maker for a reason."

I nodded at this. I was familiar with his students. Though his own legend was a bit lacking in comparison to them. Not that I was downplaying how impossibly strong he must have been, but even so.

"…Even so, I still think Atalanta is a bit more of a threat. She is the fastest hero in all of Greece after all."

Medea chuckled a bit. A sound that I had momentarily forgotten she could emit, much to my embarrassment.

"Well, I'm sure Atalanta would be flattered to hear how high of an opinion you have of her."

I highly doubted that. Atalanta didn't seem the type to really value anyone's evaluation of her abilities. Not unless it was Artemis herself. Or maybe her parents? I didn't know anything about them but it was possible.

"If you say so."

"I do."

Medea commented. This time I got off from my position on the wall and started to head out again. Determined to find out as much as possible once more. Only to pause as Medea spoke up once more.

"Oh and Orpheus?"

I turned my head back in order to face her.

"Yes?"

"Good job. Keep it up."

It was said rather offhandedly, but it still was quite touching. I could still see the genuine warmth in her words, even if her tone attempted to hide it. Or perhaps it wasn't even intentional on her part.

But either way, it brought a smile to my face.

"Thank you, master."

I expressed my feelings freely, but Medea had already turned back to her table. Her attention stolen by something else for the moment.

That was fine. When one expresses their love, it doesn't need to be expressed back to be validated. Those feelings were true and undeniable. Whether or not they are returned did nothing to diminish their worth.

Love huh…

It was a nice day outside. Perhaps I should take a bit of a break. Take in the scenery and play a bit of music before continuing on.

Time may be of importance, but so too was proper rest and relaxation.

Besides, how can you save anyone if you can't even save yourself?


~o~


Schools were much different than they were in my own time. There was a lack of teacher student relationships for one. Apprenticeships and pederastry seemed to no longer be the norm. Everything was much more streamlined and manufactured.

Which unfortunately seemed to have caused it to lack a bit of soul. There was still some there, but overall it was lacking in several areas. Life and enjoyment being one of them.

It seemed to have traded the openness and intimacy of teaching for much more knowledge and an increase in students. Having a few rules is fine, but they seemed to have definitely gone over the top with them. How people dress, how relationships should be conducted, when conversations were allowed, what could be talked about and why, and even restrictions on playing music!

It was almost barbaric in truth.

Obviously the people of this era had a lot of positives, but the lack of music freedom definitely wasn't one of them. I hadn't even seen any sort of musical classes! Just what the heck were they teaching kids here!?

It was easily the biggest problem the school faced. I wasn't sure how they were going to solve it, but I felt compelled to at least help out in some way.

Hmm, I wonder if they took in wandering teachers as long as they were able to prove their worth and mettle?

Ah, right. The school also had another problem. That being the bounded field around the school. Currently it was only siphoning a bit of the energy of the residents within.

I wasn't a fan of the method, but I wasn't going to go out of my way to disrupt it. As long as no one was dying or in danger, it wasn't really that big of a problem.

…That said, I wasn't a fan of the general tone the bounded field had. A deep and foreboding sound that made my skin crawl. Giving me the feeling that this was only the beginning of what the person behind the bounded field had to offer.

Spells and sorcery wasn't exactly my wheelhouse. I didn't know a thing about these things like Medea did, or about how they functioned. To be quite honest, I just played the best music I could and hoped for the best.

Even so, I didn't particularly like the general vibes this field was giving off. Perhaps the person who put it up would be amenable to taking it down?

Well, even if they didn't as long as they didn't plan to actually kill people then I probably wouldn't need to intervene directly.

Hopefully.

Despite the school having zero taste when it came to fostering musical talent, it still seemed to at least have an archery field. Allowing young students to grow their potential as archers.

Hmm. I wonder if Atalanta has ever given any thought to teaching a younger generation? I have a feeling she'd be good at it.

There were a variety of people currently on campus. The only one I recognized was Rin Tohsaka, who was likely followed closely by Atalanta in her spirit form. She seemed to be having a pleasant enough conversation with a boy with curly hair.

I wasn't too sure if it was a good idea to approach her or not. There was also several students who seemed to be heading towards the Archery field. Normally I wouldn't have given them much more of a look, but I felt a peculiar rhythm with the group…

Hmm, it was probably nothing important. Even so, I couldn't help but feel curious.

The archery club took more of my attention. Especially due to all the unique sounds I was picking up on. Most tones were rather pleasing but there were a few that were…offbeat.

I blended quite seamlessly within the crowd of students. Which was quite the task due to being taller than pretty much all of them. On average it seemed Japanese people were much smaller than Greeks…

Then again, my perception on what is considered an average height is a bit skewed due to the crew of the Argo. Most being relatively tall and stocky. None more than Heracles, of course.

Medea and Atalanta were of course shorter, but just about everyone else was a bit taller than me. Well, except captain Jason. But he also wasn't…

Er, well anyway, perhaps I was just a bit above average in terms of height.

My eyes drifted from person to person. Examining each student and listening to their own internal melodies. Each one unique and giving insight into who they were as a person.

They…were people.

Not particularly good, but not particularly bad either. They've never had to make hard choices to figure out who they really were, and they would likely never need to due to the world being so different. So driven by humanity for humanity.

…Yet there was one that stuck out to me. Someone in the archery club building proper had a rather…different song.

Thankfully I still wasn't particularly noticed by anyone even as I crossed into the strange open building. The inside was about as I expected, though a bit cleaner and more focused on being orderly. All the targets seemed to be stationary as well, not moving or…doing anything of interest really.

It was almost as if they expected any opponents to just simply stand there, slack jawed. Then again, this was a completely different age of humanity, so maybe that's exactly what their opponents do.

The notes of the strange melody quickly faded into the breeze. Causing me to frown as I looked around, yet saw no one fleeing the building.

Hmm. It would seem the gods did not deign for any such meeting to occur today.

"Hey, who are you?"

I turned around to not a short brown haired woman wearing strange clothing. Strange clothing that seemed to be a sort of uniform, if everyone else wearing them was any indication.

Ah, well, I guess my luck would eventually run out. Especially if everyone is wearing it besides me.

"Ah. Well, I'm-"

Before I could speak up, she held up a hand in front of my face.

"Wait, let me guess. You're…the new transfer student, right? Second year?"

…I had no idea what half of those words meant.

"Ah, sorry. Was it that obvious?"

I answered while scratching the back of my head in an embarrassed display. Causing the girl in front of me to nod vigorously. Her courage in the conversation rising due to my own appearing to fall.

It was a rather natural dynamic in conversations. Rarely were two people equals. One was the aggressor, the dominant one, and the other the more passive and submissive. I didn't really consider having knowledge of such things as manipulative in the slightest.

But it was lying. There was no denying that.

"Don't be too embarrassed. Usually only happens in the first few months of the school year, but just about every freshmen gets curious about this place."

I nodded once more before noticing a second person slowly inching towards us. Seeming to want to talk to the girl that was talking to me, but not willing to interrupt the conversation.

Eventually the girl who was addressing me noticed and turned towards her.

"What's up Sakura?"

I also turned to-

There were very, very few music notes that I would classify as evil. As wrong. As utterly vile and reprehensible. At the end of the day, all music was valid.

But whatever that was, it was wrong.

There wasn't just one song. There were many. Each just slightly off beat with each other so that there was no perfect synchronization. Instead it was just multiple sources playing the same vile song that left my stomach churning.

…And they seemed to be writhing.

I don't believe I've ever encountered anything like it. Not even the monsters in the bowels of Hades had such unpleasant sounding music. Because at the end of the day, they were just monsters. Sure they could hold grudges, but they didn't have the same pure malice that humans could.

And yet, underneath all of that foreboding music, there seemed to be something else playing. Faintly, almost imperceptivity so. A slow, drawn out tune that was almost emotional, but not quite.

I found the idea of a melancholic sounding song not yet reaching that depth of genuine sadness to be quite depressing in of itself.

"…Are you done gawking?"

My light stupor was shaken out of by the unamused voice of the brunette who seemed to be glaring at me. The purple haired girl seemed to be unable to look me in the eye and was blushing.

Hmm?

Hmm…

Ah, I see.

Yes, that would be the appropriate response when I was staring at her chest, wouldn't it?

"The voices inside your skin really bother me."

I admitted with a small apologetic smile. The purple hair girl had her emotions quickly fluctuated on her face. Each one being more complicated than the last. Before finally relaxing while placing a hand on her chest as if to shield it from me.

Unfortunately it did nothing to dampen the noise that was coming from within.

"That…was a terrible ice breaker."

The brunette stated causing me to shrug my shoulders.

"Yes, I'm afraid my social skills are a bit rusty. Let's start over. My name is Phanes. I'm pleased to meet you."

The brunette nodded. Relaxing her arms in response.

"I'm Ayako. This is Sakura."

"Ah, I see your names are just as lovely."

I freely complimented, yet Ayako simply frowned at my words. Sakura it seemed took them a bit better at least with a blush. which was fortunate as she was quite beautiful.

Much like the Trojan Horse.

"I'll have you know I'm much more than just a pretty face."

Ah, it would seem I've unintentionally hit some sort of nerve without meaning to. But perhaps this could work to my advantage as well.

I studied Ayako for a few seconds as she frowned with her hands on her hips while looking towards me. Finally I opened my mouth to answer her.

"Is that a demonstration I hear?"

I asked, leading to Ayako to slowly start smiling.

"…Hah! Alright, you got it. Sakura, let's go show him what we're made of."

"Y-yes captain…"

It didn't take long for the two to lead me over to the targets. Well, Ayako did at least. Sakura didn't seem to be very sociable or have any sort of willingness to prove herself. A rather stark contrast to any of the Argonauts.

Ayako went first. Showcasing her talent with the bow by hitting several targets and missing few shots. Leading to several of the other club members to clap their hands politely as a show of support.

Sakura also shot a few but they were much more lacking in comparison. She also seemed to lack the same enthusiasm as her partner. Leading her to shoot fewer and fewer shots as time went on, and letting Ayako focus more on herself.

After a few minutes Ayako looked back at me with a grin.

"How was that?"

"Impressive work. I'm sure you'd make a great warrior one day."

Ayako seemed to roll her eyes in good nature at my compliment. Perhaps thinking it wasn't sincere for some reason. Eventually she signaled for someone to approach with a bow before handing it off to me.

"Alright, let's see how you do tough guy."

…I was most definitely not a tough guy.

Even so, I was versed on how to use a bow. After stringing it and practicing with the bowstring, I let loose my first arrow. It did decent enough. And by that I meant Atalanta or Heracles would just be disappointed at my aim instead of being insulted by it.

I aimed and shot several more arrows, but they also weren't much better than the first. Causing me to decide to call it there for the day.

Ayako whistled in response as I lowered the bow.

"Huh…that was almost Emiya levels of skill."

I didn't know who this Emiya was, but I knew a compliment when I heard one. Causing me to rub the back of my neck in embarrassment.

"Well, I may not be someone well known for my prowess in battle, but I'm still a hero after all."

Ayako stared at me for a bit with her eyebrows raised.

"…Oh, is that some sort of Archery rank? You should've said you competed nationally earlier."

I simply smiled.

"Ah, please forgive me."

Archery wasn't exactly my cup of tea. Therefore it was only natural that I'd fall back on what I was familiar with. That of course being music.

At first they lightly protested, thinking that I might get the club in trouble. Only after I firmly stated that I'd take full responsibility for my actions did they relent. Which wasn't too hard of a choice for them to make. Considering my music was already stirring their hearts.

As well as their spirits, as they began to practice their archery with renewed vigor. It was also nice to see that their aim and markedly improved, with captain Ayako's arrows being powerful enough to start forcefully pushing over the targets. Much to her and the others surprise.

There was also a small amount of students that decided to simply sit nearby and take in the melody. The song of their hearts slowing matching the same rhythm, if only for a brief moment. I was beyond honored to be able to soothe the hearts and bodies of these hard working students. Even the girl with purple hair, Sakura, fell into this camp. Simply sitting and taking in the tunes as they not only affected her, but the discordant notes inside.

They of course attempted to put up a bit of a fight, but when it comes to music there was none who could drown me out. I may not be able to do a lot of things, but this was the one thing I was truly confident in.

Every other song in my vicinity was folded into the orchestra. Conscripted into joining in. Either with polite humming, the swaying of their bodies, or even just their internal melodies changing into something that complimented my own piece.

It was quite beautiful how music never failed to gather people together. It was one of the few things that transcended any sort of language or utterly foreign understanding of the world.

The beats, the rhythm, the notes.

These were things that could touch even the gods.

But of course all good times couldn't last forever. That's what made them good, after all. They could only be good if there was a bad to compare them to.

A strange dichotomy that was sad, yet also heartwarming. Sure, everyone happy would eventually undergo grief, but so too would people undergoing grief be eventually happy.

An endless cycle.

Yes…a cycle…

But sometimes cycles were broken.

I winded down before plucking my last few strings. Which were further punctuated by the captain clapping her hands.

"Alright everyone. Practice is over, let's start cleaning up."

Several people seemed to jolt up as if having been awakened from a dream. Attempting to stand on unsteady legs. Despite being one of the few who fell the deepest into my song, it would seem that Sakura didn't miss even a beat. Standing up slowly but surely while being completely steady.

As if she was well accustomed to waking from the realm of daydreams.

"Since this isn't your club, feel free to leave whenever. But if you ever do feel like joining…"

The captain stated, while letting the end of sentence tail off, before giving a wave and turning right around. I was rather confused as to why she didn't just finish her sentence like a normal person.

What exactly was I supposed to do if I felt like joining? I mean, it'd probably be a bad idea to do that, but even if I did, why would she leave that open ended? Was it some sort of mysterious initiation rite that I was supposed to figure out myself?

People of this era made things rather complicated, huh?

As I made my own escape from the compound, several students murmured their thanks for my music. Or at least complimented it, making me feel rather pleased and touched by their words. It wasn't much, but it didn't need to be.

Whether it was being rewarded with a grand feast and riches or being rewarded by a smile, the only thing that mattered was the sincerity behind their actions.

Only one bowed their head to me. Sakura squeaked out a murmur of thanks before quickly turning back to the captain. Obviously intent on helping her out.

The people of this era…were just so much more peaceful.

…Which is why I can not stand the lack of musical teachings in this establishment of higher learning! What was higher learning without the arts!? Especially the MAIN art of music!?

Nothing! Nothing I say!

There needed to be a change. A protest. A movement. To correct this practice. One that I'd-

CRASH!

My thoughts were interrupted by the loud sound of metal hitting stone. Causing me to look over and notice an adult teacher riding a moped attempting to chase and hit the students around her. Much to her amusement, and the students terror.

Ah, well, at least some things stayed the same regardless of eras.


~o~


The night life of Fuyuki was quite enchanting. Though personally I much preferred the natural music the forest had to offer, I couldn't say that this lacked in comparison.

There was so many lights. As if the entirety of the city was crying out that they existed. That they were right here, and ready for any sort of challenge.

Signs were lit up with strange bright colors. Purple, red, blue, green, and yellow. Each advertising some sort of service or object to purchase. They weren't crying out to the world that they were here, they were crying out to other people.

Because in the end, that's all that really remained anymore.

A week had gone by without anything of particular note happening. Not that I could find, at any rate. Leaving me to just aimlessly searching the city high and low.

It wasn't the greatest of plans, but it was all that I had.

…And it seemed to be working, if that house was any indication…

There was nothing wrong about it specifically. Nor was there anything visually out of the ordinary. No, what drew my attention was the nearby tones. If I wasn't mistaken, that must be…

Lancer.

I hopped from the nearby rooftop to the side of the wall. Peering over the wall only to see Lancer quickly engaged with-

Their song was incredible. Dominating the air around her with it's zeal bordering on the edge of worship. Her praises were sung to the heavens. Tears of joy and pure unadulterated elation fell numerous times by those who carried the ballad.

A ruler who broke her enemies over her knee like they were nothing. The number of enemies they faced down blotted out the sun, and yet they were able to address every single one.

A leader who was dependable. Who rose to the occasion for her people, for her friends, for her soldiers. A leader who knew no weakness.

This was a woman who knew no fear. Who's power knew no equal in her lifetime. A legend above legends. A household name that could be found on the lips of any child.

This was…

Was…

Who the hell was she!?

I felt my eye twitched as I examined the song around her again and again. It was iconic, powerful, soothing, and beautiful. It was everything a legendary hero of the past should be.

…So why wasn't a name jumping out at me!?

Was…was I losing my touch? It felt like it should be obvious. Catherine the Great? No, that armor was much too European in design. Elizabeth the first? But was she really such a legendary figure in history?

And did she even fight with a sword?

Think Orpheus. A ruler that seemed to have no equal. Their power was overwhelming, almost to a point of seeming divine. They were legendary, so much so that it could compete with how well known the story of Heracles and his twelve labors was. A woman and the sole ruler of their country…

Zenobia? Boudica? The Rani of Jhansi?

Ahhh! I felt I was starting to go mad! No matter how much I watched, and listened, there was nothing more to be gleamed. Her identity didn't need to come up because it was just so obvious…

Except to me!

Hah…

At the very least, it seemed Lancer was enjoying himself. Testing his skills against this new hero and seeming to being beaten back quite a bit. Cu was strong, but it was obvious he wasn't all that accustomed to fighting opponents of the same level…

No, that was absolutely wrong. Cu was more than accustomed to such things. It was just that his opponent was so skilled against such opponents it almost made him look inexperienced in comparison.

His every move was seen through. Every possible combination and strike he could make was already being blocked or countered before he could make it. He was being read like a book.

Fortunately for him though, he was able to repel just about every single attack that came his way. Even if it did push him further and further back.

Personally I wasn't sure what that redheaded boy near a shed was seeing. Even I was having a tough time keeping up with each attack, and I had experience with watching Heracles and the other Argonauts fight!

The general tone of the battle shifted as Lancer further backed off.

His eyes widened as his spear glowed an ominous crimson color. He was about to use his Noble Phantasm.

…Well that wasn't good.

It took only a second to pull out my trusty lyre. A few strings was all that was needed in order for everything to take effect. Any more and I might as well as off myself and save them the trouble.

The sound of the lullaby infiltrated the very souls of those present. Their internal tempos flowing with in tandem with the music that flowed. I took a deep breath with my eyes closed in order to focus all my efforts on the song.

Each note ringing out softly and gently into the night. Leading everyone who's listening into the realm of dreams. And those that were already dreaming, into a deeper more pleasant one.

One where the world was just a little bit better. Where for just one day, there was nothing stressful happening. No sudden bouts of illness, no bad luck, no mistakes.

It wasn't perfect. Nothing could really be. But it was the closest I could get to it with my own meagre abilities.

I couldn't help everyone.

I couldn't save everyone.

But at the very least, I can make things just a little bit better. And I think sometimes that's enough to be proud of.

I opened my eyes to see Lancer slightly hunched over. His eyes vacant with his mouth slightly parted. He was no longer part of this world, well, not in the same way most were.

The crimson light vanished from his spear. Honestly it was quite impressive that his grip was still so tight on it. Near the warehouse was the redheaded boy who must have lowered his body onto the ground in order to nap safely.

Good, I wouldn't have liked it if he had just suddenly fallen and got injured on a rock. Safety was paramount. Anything else risked things going wrong.

And that meant death, which would just start taking and taking and taking and-

The blonde haired hero was currently glaring at me in a battle ready position. I had to blink a few times to really actualize the situation in my mind before nodding.

Ah fuck.

Well.

This had suddenly taken a sudden turn in the worst possible way. Hmm. Ah. Mmm? Eh…

What exactly should I do? Currently she was just standing there, thankfully waiting for me to make the first move. Which meant I at least had some time to-

She glanced over at Lancer before taking a step forward.

Immediately I dove off the side of the wall onto the field. Once again knowingly taken what was likely the worst action possible.

Unfortunately I wasn't Odysseus, and blessed with the wisdom of the gods. Nor did I have the speed of Atalanta in order to rush forward. The ability to command others like Jason was also not my calling. And being able to have the physical ability to truly enforce my will like Heracles was far beyond me.

This was just slightly better than nothing…

But sometimes that's all it took.

"Ah…hey there! I didn't see you."

The proud warrior raised an eyebrow in response. I wanted to slap myself silly for such a stupid statement. Unfortunately it was the first thing that came to mind.

"Hold! Identify yourself!"

Well, that was…a relatively normal reply. So it would seem that we're at least on a level to converse.

"Fair enough, wise and benevolent ruler. I am…"

I paused as I noticed a surge of prana in the area. Suddenly turning the ground I was standing on into plush carpet. The nearby house, the shed, and the walls around the place suddenly had pink see through veils gently blowing in the wind.

The area was also quickly adorned with all manners of pillows, both large and small. With a heart shaped table in the middle, near the front of the blonde warrior.

A strange scent blew through the air that reminded me of some foreign spice I once smelled in life. Sensual music played in the background from a few specific instruments that were likely playing themselves.

…Ah, well now, this was awkward.

"What sort of magecraft is this!?"

The noble knight went and pointed her sword in several directions. Seeming to expect the walls or maybe the veils to suddenly jump out at her in an attack. Which was…a bit funny, actually.

In just how absurd the idea was. Then again, this was a Holy Grail War. Perhaps absurdity was the norm.

It didn't help that the knight was also rather confused, and worried about her surroundings.

"Alright, in my defense, I just want to start off by saying this wasn't intentional in the slightest-"

The knight then decided to point her sword at me, causing me to raise my hands back up in a sign of peace. Her eyes narrowed as she spoke up.

"If you wish to talk, then you better get rid of this…territory."

"Uh…while that is a perfectly reasonable thing to ask for, unfortunately I don't think I can…"

Her eyes narrowed further as she tilted her sword upwards. Gripping it firmly with both hands.

"You will or you'll die."

Mmm.

"Well, the problem with that is I'm quite certain if I did go along with your request, I'm pretty sure the gods would take that as a slight and immediately kill me on the spot. Not that I'd blame them, of course. I'd never take their blessings in vain."

The blond warrior's eyes grew doubtful or perhaps even uncomprehending at my words before looking around. Examining the furniture before the heart shaped table in front of her. Giving it a puzzled look before lowering her sword.

"This is…a curse?"

I blinked in surprise.

"Er, well, I wouldn't quite phrase it like that. I'd like to think of it more like a surprise gift."

"I…see?"

She poked one of the seats near the heart shaped table before shrugging and actually taking a seat. Gesturing towards the other side of the table. I was surprised, but more than happy to take the extended offer.

As I quickly sat down, I had to fight from sliding completely off the chair due to how smooth it was. Meanwhile it would seem that the green eyed knight had started to look around the place out of genuine curiosity, rather than confusion.

And apparently she felt safe enough in my presence to not even bother having her sword out.

…I'll take that as a win!

"…You're taking this much better than I expected."

I admitted, causing the woman to hum while continuing to look about the place.

"I've ran into several others with similar curses before. Though perhaps not quite like this."

Oh? What an interesting life she must have lead.

"So you were well traveled in life?"

Immediately the ruler's eyes focused back onto me. Narrowing slightly while maintaining a cautious gaze.

"Perhaps. And you?"

Ah, right.

"My name is Orpheus. I'm pleased to meet you."

She nodded back instead of saying likewise. Showcasing that the feeling may not be mutual, but she was at least willing to accept my feelings. It was a start.

"I see. Am I right to assume that you cast a spell on Lancer, me and my master without intending to take our life?"

Alright, this was going well.

"Yes."

Her eyes narrowed.

"To what end?"

Hmm?

"Well, I was hoping to stop the two of you from actually taking each others lives."

The warrior leaned forward.

"But that is the goal of this Holy Grail War, is it not? Surely you too must have a wish for the holy grail."

"I do not. The only wish I have is to help a friend. Which is something I can do without the help of the holy grail."

For a long while the warrior woman simply stared at me. Continuing to do so as if waiting for me to blink, shift my posture or…do anything really. I had to resist scratching my arm in order to not interrupt…whatever was currently happening.

Finally the woman sighed lightly before looking away.

"If you intend to stop even servants from dying, you must be either incredibly naïve or foolish."

"You're probably right."

I admitted. Smiling in a self depreciating manner before awkwardly rubbing my neck. In response, the warrior queen…smiled. A small, very faint thing that seemed to showcase just a bit of exhaustion in her frame.

"Well, this is certainly better than before."

"I'm sorry?"

The ruler waved off my comment. Obviously having no intention in explaining herself.

"It's nothing. While I can not agree with the path you have chosen, I can at least allow you and Lancer to leave tonight unharmed."

I blinked.

"Oh, well that is very generous of you-"

"However. This will not be a common occurrence. The next we meet…I will not be so lenient. Do you understand?"

The knightly queen warned, causing me to nod my head in return. Bowing slightly towards her before moving aside.

Already I had commanded Lancer to start moving back to…wherever it was he called home. A rather strange look was on his face while he started to move.

…I think I'd rather not think about why that was.

Instead I made sure to avoid the blonde woman's master like the plague before continuing to head out. She on the other hand seemed to immediately start carrying him in her arms before heading towards the nearby house.

…What a nice servant.

I was also pretty certain she was a saber class. Information that was nonetheless valuable to Medea.

Which left…what, only two possible servants? It didn't seem too unreasonable…for now at least.

But I was still going to have to count on future Orpheus putting in a lot of work. Work that-

CLANG!

…Seriously? I was just leaving. Who could possibly be stirring up trouble!?

It took me only a second to find the source of the noise. It would seem as though Saber was now defending her home from a second servant. One that was much more easily identifiable.

The fastest hero in all of ancient Greece, Atalanta the fleet.

…Who was currently in an extremely disadvantageous position. As I was quite certain it hadn't been Atalanta's choice to fight in close quarters in the street.

What few shots she could unleash were blocked by Saber, who's sword was currently crashing down against her bow. Forcing her to both defend herself with her bow, as well as keep her position.

It didn't help matters that Atalanta's master was so close. Meaning that even if she gained distance her master would just be eliminated.

It was a tough situation for her, and Saber wasn't giving her any room to think. Even so, Atalanta was as resolute as ever. Commanding respect with her ability to not even consider giving up.

And it didn't lose out to Saber's ever vigilant protection of herself and her master. Her unyielding blows combined with her stalwart defense…it cast quite the intimidating figure.

Yet I wasn't scared in the slightest.

Only mesmerized by the beauty before me. Hero vs hero. Ideal vs ideal. Hope against hope.

It was inspiring…and very much out of my league. I wasn't a heroic spirit who could even come close to two legends. Even so, if I had a chance to save a life, why wouldn't I take it?

…But of course that only depended on if I had a plan. Which I most certainly didn't. Let's see…my bread and butter was bringing others into the realm of dreams. But uh, that didn't seem like it would work on Saber.

And I definitely didn't feel lucky enough to press Saber to let a second servant go.

So what did that leave me?

I clasped my hands together before looking up to the night sky. Whispering a prayer to the gods on my lips. Asking them for guidance on my path.

And an answer I was given.

The great charioteer, Apollo, gave me divine inspiration. Giving me quite precise instructions.

My lyre out, and positioned just a bit forward. As I held it aloft, I was instructed to clear my throat just before beginning to sing. Which seemed to have gotten a trace amount of attention from both Saber and Atalanta.

Now I take a step forward and-

Ah. I seemed to have forgotten that I was already on the edge of the building. Which meant there was no where for me to step off to. Which wouldn't be a problem normally, as my balance was quite good.

Unfortunately it seemed I was much too enthusiastic, and hadn't thought twice about Lord Apollo's instructions.

Leading to me only realizing my situation a fraction of a second before the asphalt of the road came upon me. My lyre immediately smashed into my face due to being inbetween my head and the street, while my body flopped down hard. Causing me to let out a grunt of pain as it happened.

…A second later, I turned my head slightly and looked at the two heroes who had been fighting.

Atalanta's eyes were directly focused on me. Her nose scrunched up as she seemed to be both angry, and confused. Meanwhile Saber just seemed utterly flabbergasted. Her mouth opened slightly with her eyebrows slightly tilted in what seemed like concern.

She also seemed to have lost the grip to her sword. As it fell out of hands momentarily causing her to immediately stumble to pick it back up.

Even Atalanta's master was holding her own head in dumbfounded awe staring at me. As if puzzled over the meaning of my very existence.

…I see. As expected of the lord Apollo. I should offer more in the way of prayers when I got back home.

I made a show of struggling to get myself back on my feet. My nose slightly bloody due to the tumble only helped in garnering their attention as I jogged slowly towards them while waving my hand.

"Hey guys! What brings you down this way?"

Atalata said nothing. Simply glaring before huffing and looking away from me. Instead preferring to eye up Saber. Causing Saber to tense up and once more get into a ready stance.

Atalanta's master, Rin, seemed to want to say something, but didn't seem to know whether to speak up, or focus on the other servant in front of her.

Hmm. First Lancer, then Saber, then Archer…what an interesting line up.

"I don't suppose it has anything to do with Lancer, would it?"

I took a shot in the dark, and seemed to have hit a mark. As Rin's eyes lit up before looking back at me.

"He was here earlier?"

"…He was…and now he's not."

Saber stated, seemingly attempting to give them as little information to go off as possible. But if she was being subtle uh…she could definitely use some work. Obviously secrecy wasn't in her undoubtedly vast repertoire.

"…I see."

Rin seemed to have gained something from that, as her tone of voice seemed to gain an edge. A sharp look came over her eyes as she hummed before turning around…and walking away.

"…Saber, when your master gets better, tell him that Rin Tohsaka would like to talk to him. Magus to magus."

Despite saying that with a smile, I couldn't help but feel a sort of biting edge to her comments. Saber's postured immediately tightened up as Atalanta moved, but she only did so in order to gain more ground. Getting further and further away from Saber in response.

The two still continued to stare each other down, even while they were seemingly giving each other space.

…Great success!

But now what do I do? Try to talk to an annoyed Atalanta and Rin, or talk to the tired Saber?

…It was likely a better idea to go after Atalanta. After all, Saber was probably much more on guard. It's not like we had been friends or anything in life. Unlike Atalanta, who was absolutely friendly, she just…expresses it differently.

Atalanta's eyes immediately narrow and lock on to my frame as I ran closer. My arm waving in the wind as I grinned in delight. She huffed in response, before relaxing her grip on her bow and looked away.

Rin gave me a wary look, but seemed to defer to her servant. Facing back the way she came.

"..What do you want?"

"Why would I need a reason to talk to a friend?"

Atalanta growled. Showing off small fangs as she continued to not meet my gaze.

"Calling us friends is a-"

"Haha, your little cat fangs are so cute!"

I pointed out, causing Atalanta to immediately stop in her tracks. Rounding on me with the swiftness I could expect from her, her face reddened in anger and embarrassment. Her finger firmly pressing against my chest as she repeatedly jabbed.

"LION! They are traits of a LION! A proud, strong creature of the wilds and you'd do well to remember that."

I continued to watch as Atalanta's eye twitched as she glared at me. Attempting to get up in my face but with a good bit of trouble considering her uh…height disadvantage.

I chose wisely to not point out or look at her feet where she was very likely standing on the tips of her toes.

My hands went up in surrender as I closed my eyes. A soft smile on my lips to show that I hadn't meant any harm.

"Of course of course…but uh, aren't lions cats?"

"…"

Atalanta gave me a look of revulsion and anger before huffing and turning around. Shaking her head in exasperation as she continued on.

…I was pretty sure she did that because she didn't actually have a retort for that. And it would seem Rin thought so too, as she now sported a smile as they continued on their path home.

After a few minutes of silence, I spoke up again.

"How do cats get over a fight?"

"…"

Atalanta glared at me, but continued watching.

"…They hiss and make up!"

She gave a loud sigh of exasperation before looking away. I was sure she'd smile after that one. Maybe she was…on the inside? Let's see…

"Why was the cat so agitated?"

"…"

"Cause it was in a bad mew-d!"

Atalanta started to quicken her steps forward. Jogging slightly ahead, causing her master to start laughing a bit. In order for her to not get too far, I made sure to keep pace with her. Otherwise she might not be able to hear my jokes.

"What's a cat's favorite color?"

"Shut up! No one asked!"

I unintentionally started to crack up a bit at my own joke. Which caused me to slow down, as Atalanta started to go faster.

"I-it's hehe, purrple!"

"AHHH!"

I was pretty sure she was starting to come around to the cat jokes.