-Roland.
-Hm?
-Why the long face, mate? You might wear a mask, but it's kinda hard not to notice something is off.
Roland stopped and turned his face to Cu:
-Hm,- Fixer scratched his chin and traced back his steps since the beginning of the singularity.
After Romani notified them of the battle ahead, they sprinted towards it, but weren't really given time to properly scout it, as an enemy bot found them out. The following battle was nothing difficult, minus one little thing…
-I think I just reverted to my working persona, that's all.
-Mean to say you are all glum and doom when working?
-Well, back in the field I preferred to call it "being professional". Plus…-his head turned to the tent with his employer, who got the taste of lead.
-Not sure it was a good Idea to leave her with that nurse.
-I mean, do you see another medical professional around? - Cu retorted with a valid argument.
-No. But she gives me the "doc from the Backstreets" vibe. And let me tell you, 6 out of 10 instances they turn out to be organ harvesters.
-And the remaining 4?
-Something worse.
The following silence was spent in deep contemplation of life choices. Until it was interrupted by shriek:
-Waaaaah!
The two sprinted to the tent, arriving soon after Mash.
-Don't come closer or I'll shoot, - said the good doctor, aiming her pistol at Mash.
-Hey, Lady, no need to be so tense, - said Cu making a step forward and now he was with the crosshair on his chest.
Roland decided to carefully move to the left side of the tent, away from where the madwoman could graze Ritsuka and from where he could snipe her if the need arose.
-I must perform an amputation. Lest something gets places where it isn't supposed to be.
-Em, we can probably do without it. We have this, - Mash waved the healing scroll in front of her, - It's a healing scroll. It's going to put Senpai back on her feet in seconds.
The nurse stared intently at the scroll for a few moments.
-You might be dangerous to the patient.
-We are her Servants. It's our responsibility to bring her back with her limbs intact. It's not that different from you wanting to keep your patients alive.
Something in that sentence struck a chord with the woman and she made way for the shielder, who applied the healing scroll immediately.
The effect was instantaneous as well, and Roland could only whistle.
-Those put K. Corp's bandages to shame.
Ritsuka smiled smugly.
-That's magic for you.
-Magecraft,- Mash was fast to correct.
-Whatever, - came from both Roland and Ritsuka.
The nurse examined Ritsuka for a minute after that and came to the conclusion that the patient was perfectly fine.
-You are fully healed. Marvelous. Now, vacate the premises please, you take up the space of someone else in need, - she said and left for the other end of the tent, tending to another patient.
-Well, that was cold,-commented Roland.
-Hm, - Mash, meanwhile, was deep in thought.
Ritsuka noticed the face her Kouhai was making, and asked:
-Something the matter, Mash? Penny for your thoughts?
-Well, I have a guess who Miss Nurse could be.
-Don't be shy then, share with the class! - encouraged the Master.
-Er, - that made a timid girl even more shy, - I'm not sure, but she might be Florence Nightingale…
The nurse immediately turned to them.
-Did we get a new patient? ...Don't call my name unless you need me, - she then returned to tending to the patient.
-Good job, Girl, -said Cu as he placed a hand on Mash's shoulder.
-Oh, it's nothing really…
-Khem-khem, - the communicator came to life and Romani popped up, proposing to recruit the Angel of Crimea. But Ritsuka stopped him in the middle of his tirade.
-Pretender, Lancer, rendezvous with Archer. He said that there is a small number of armed forces heading to the camp from the south. Saber is on her way there as we speak, Assassin is covering our flanks. Me and Mash are going to see what we can do to recruit the good doctor and then reconvene.
Colour Roland impressed, the girl behaved like a head of a Section of some big association. That earned her some brownie points from him.
******
-What's the status, Archer, - asked Roland as he scanned the clearing in front of him, right underneath the tree where Arash was perched.
-A group. 100 in number. And two very distinct characters in the lead. Both have a spear, so….
-Mean to say they are Lancers?
-The possibility is there,-he nodded.
A spyglass appeared in Roland's hand as he jumped on the tree.
-Why do you have something like that? - came from Cu.
-While I usually worked in enclosed spaces, I had this just in case. It pays to know where the enemy is. Besides…
A rifle appeared in his hands, then, a scope, which he promptly attached.
-I do have a gun on me, you know?
-That's good, - came the female voice as Arturia stepped out of the bushes, - Master gave me permission to take command. Pretender, Archer, you snipe down ordinary warriors, me and Lancer will be in the avangard. All clear? - her voice wasn't commanding, yet still held that authority Roland could hear from Charles on occasion.
-Clear as day, - came from Arash.
-Copy. I'll go and find myself another place to snipe from. Gunshots are rather loud, don't want Archer to be found out.
-We proceed then.
******
-Your Majesty. We've found them. Apparently they're Servants. I can see why our troops aren't pushing onward. This is probably as far as the unsung warriors can go. Now it's our turn to step up.
-Just what I'd expect from my subordinate, Diarmuid Ua Duibhne. Your eyes are, yes, if I were to compare, akin to a hawk's!
-...You are too kind. Compared to your wisdom, Fionn mac Cumhaill, I am nothing.
-Hahaha! Enough with the modesty. You have an eye for beauty. The fact that you chose Gráinne proves it.
-..N-No. I wouldn't...say that… Uh…
-Sorry, I was only joking! That was a bit mean of me! Now, let's fight! Let's show them the power of the Knights of Fianna! And...let's bring an eternal empire to this fertile land!
-I'm afraid that would be rather hard to realize, - said Arturia, as she and Cu stood in the way of the squad.
-Ah, Arturia. It seems that fate itself favors me today. We might just be able to finish our duel.
-Diarmuid. It has been a while,-Arturia remained stoic, yet there was a hint of excitement in her eyes.
-I hope your wretched Master….
-Diarmuid. Calm yourself and please, introduce me to the proud warrior.
-Of course, my liege. This is Arturia Pendragon, we met once, during a holy grail war. There, through cowardly tricks… - he wasn't given an opportunity to end his rant.
-Most interesting. And your companion, dear King of Knights, needs no introduction. He has a striking resemblance to his Majesty, after all, - Fionn seemed to be taking this encounter seriously. The undercurrents of his tone betrayed none of the nervousness he was feeling.
-The hell you are talking about? - said Cu, his spear at the ready. The "his majesty part" made him feel like worms crawled down his spine.
-So you don't know who is in charge of our glorious empire, then? I'm sure you'll come to learn of it in time. But I tire of this. Diarmuid, you have my permission to settle the score with Saber. I will take on the hound. My knights, you proceed….
He didn't get to end the sentence as five arrows found their mark in someone's head, and several gunshots rang in quick succession.
-I retract that, take the defensive formation, retreat for the nearest cover! As soon as we are finished here, we will storm these woods.
The bout between the greatest warriors of the British Isles began.
******
Roland made it his goal to end as many troopers as possible, so bullets flew left, right and center, each claiming a celtic warrior's life. But with them numbering hundred, the process was slow going. To Roland's immense bewilderment, it turned out that firing bullets is actually worse than sniping with a bow. Because while he did five kills, Arash did 10 or so. Fixer blamed it on heroic spirits being all around busted existences.
"Roland, you hear me?" - came the voice from inside his head.
It was really hard to get to terms with someone just casually being able to look through your eyes, or speak to you telepathically. The all-hearing, all-seeing Angela was one thing, but this was just as frightening.
"Loud and clear"
"We have a situation. It seems that your front was just a bait. The camp is being swarmed by celtic warriors as we speak. Me, Mash, Nightingale and Jack are holding them off, but we need some support. Arash is on the way to help us, your job is to cover fire Cu and Arturia. I told them the situation already."
Ritsuka might have looked like an airhead, but she had a good head on her shoulders, a fact that made Roland start to reevaluate his initial impression of her.
"Copy. "
It was radio silence and flying bullets from then on.
******
In the clearing, Diarmuid and Arturia fought each other to a standstill, while Fionn was starting to get slightly winded.
-My king, it seems that the main forces have arrived at their destination.
-Good. Our role here is done. Warriors, retr… - he wasn't given an opportunity to finish the sentence.
-Oh, no, you ain't going anywhere. I'm having so much fun here, you know, - a bloodthirsty grin played on Cu's lips as he charged the king. He didn't have this much fun in a VERY long while.
Fionn leveled his opponent with an annoyed look.
-Diarmuid, win me some time.
-Yes!
Cu went onto the offensive, but Diarmuid struggled to ward him and Saber off his liege.
All it took to break the balance was a gunshot.
Biding his time, Roland got just the right timing and put a bullet through Diarmuid's right shoulder. Saber capitalized, and the next moment, his hand flew right off. Cu was just going for the kill, but….
-Diarmuid, to me! - Fionn shouted and the Lancer retreated just in time.
-Mac an Luin! - Noble phantasm went off and a torrent of water escaped at frightening speeds.
Arturia exchanged a quick glance with Cu and…
-Strike Air!
Stopped the phantasm with one of her own.
This gave just enough time for the knights of Fianna to escape. Roland tried to capitalize on their turned backs, but B ranked agility proved to be very good at running away and soon, the duo was nowhere to be found.
Cu and Arturia set off into the woods and Roland heard: "Cu and Arturia are needed here. Take care of our backs, let me know if someone else shows up."
Oh well, guard duty it is.
******
"Well, shit"- thought the Coloured Fixer, seeing how the rest of the team is being rounded up and put into a wagon.
Roland wasn't there to witness the entire fight, he only got to see how Mash tanked a giant fucking meteor, which still wasn't enough, because shockwave knocked everyone out.
Their enemy didn't seem to want to kill them, so Roland shadowed them up until they entered the cave road. Going in was too much of a risk, so he opted to go around.
"Roland, you there?"
"Alive and well, Boss. Can't say the last one about you though. How's the situation on your end?"
"It seems that they put some kind of magecraft that prevents Chaldea from giving servants any mana. We are not combat ready. You have Independant action, but everyone else barely has any energy to actually stay in existence."
"And what do they want?"
"To talk, apparently."
There was a pregnant silence, as Roland tried to comprehend this method of negotiation.
"I call bullshit, but it's your call at the end of the day."
"...Then you'll have to meet us later. I'll keep you posted on the situation, don't get caught. Oh, and also, it seems they forgot about your existence entirely."
"Information Erasure sure is a handy thing".
"That it is".
Roland sighed. Why can't things go his way once?
Damn E rank luck…
******
The night was falling onto the stronghold of the North Army.
There, in the cells of the dungeon, Ritsuka let out a sigh. Edison seemed like the kind of guy you could talk with and even make a deal or two. However while their interests aligned, their endgame was very different from one another. For one, the man wanted to install himself as the king with the help of the grail.
Which they needed to end the singularity.
And of course, the traitorous thought of accepting but then stabbing Edison in the back crossed her mind. She is only human, after all.
She squashed that thought mercilessly, refusing to accept the deal outright, and, perhaps, with more vigor in her voice than was needed.
But it ultimately didn't matter. Right now, her servants took on the spirit form to lessen the toll on their Master. And Ritsuka herself was feeling the whole burn of the upkeep of 5 servants all at once. Speaking of servants…
"Roland, I hope you get your ass moving because I don't feel so good."
"Yes-yes, Ma'am. I'm in the middle of infiltration right now and…"
A gunshot rang,and the bullet bounced around the cell.
-We need to start doing something if we want to get out.
-We know, b-but you could hardly destroy a cell with a gun!
-I seem to have made a dent in it, though. Come now, everyone, pitch in and push!
*BANG*
-AH the bullets are ricocheting! Nightingale, this is too reckless!
Ritsuka was in full support of her kohai's statement, but couldn't voice it, being too occupied with dancing around the supposed trajectory of the bullet.
-Yes, it is reckless indeed, - it's only then that they've noticed a man in front of the cell.
-But on the other hand, it helped me find you more easily,-he gave them a small, well-meaning smile.
-A servant?
-Wait-wait, a servant?! We didn't receive any reading whatsoever!
Suddenly, a rifle appeared right behind the guy's head.
-And it's a good thing, we don't want to mess with that white-red guy. Now, Pal, how about you start explaining the hell you are doing here, - said Roland, his voice guarded, finger on the trigger.
-I do not seek to fight. On the contrary, I think we can help each other, - despite the situation, the stranger's voice was calm, not betraying any kind of emotion.
Ritsuka leveled Roland with a commanding look.
-You sure it's a good idea?
-Well, we won't have a constructive dialogue, if another side is held at gunpoint, will we?
Standing for another second in complete silence, the gun disappeared and Roland took a step back.
-I thank you. As a token of my trust… I'd tell you my true name, yes. It is not to be revealed lightly, but even if I did, I doubt you would know of it. As such, you should address me as Geronimo.
-Geronimo! An apache shaman… You were summoned as caster, huh?-recognition flashed in Mash's eyes.
-I am far from being a shaman, I am more of a warrior, but now, let's get rid of the cell first. Will this gentleman help me?
-Yeah-yeah, - said Fixer, as he stepped up.
-Could you please cut here?
It took a few tries, but a magically reinforced cell gave in soon after.
-The hero of the Apache, huh. Well, the guy is incompatible with Edison.
-Strictly speaking, we should also be enemies, - Roland eyed the guy, hand already on the handle of Durandal, - but this is no time for that.
As the cell screeched free, Geronimo smiled.
-There, you are free. But I must warn you, - his face turned serious, - to get out of here we must fight through mechanized infantry. That will no doubt get the attention of that great hero of India. We must give it our all to escape. Are you ready?
-Hell yeah!-shouted Ritsuka back, not the least bit intimidated by such a task.
Roland though, couldn't help but sigh.
All the heavy lifting was left to the servants after all.
******
Mechanical.
*SLICE*
Precise.
*THUD*
Efficient.
*BANG-BANG-BANG*
Roland has returned to his battle mentality. Always watching his six, always taking notice of the dark corners. Not even once lowering his guard.
He'd like to say that he didn't enjoy this. But at this point, fighting was natural to him. Like breathing, like eating. And it was really hard not to enjoy things you are good at. Not to say he enjoyed killing people, though.
He was slightly wary of the choices he will have to make in the future. As far as he was informed, this entire era was just a hoax, that will disappear when all is said and done, so technically he could kill as many people as he needed (you didn't think that the entirety of the north army consisted of killerbots did you?) and face no karma for that.
But he has been running away from his long enough. And when is it better to fuck with him when he was on the most high-stackes mission in his life? And no, not because the entire humanity was hanging on a thread called Chaldea.
Where was he going with this again?
Ah right, so should he do the same thing he always did and just hide behind his mask, shielding himself from the anguish he will have to enact on others?
The sad fireside corner of his heart told him that no. Enough was enough.
He was bound to agree. The chat with Jeanne made a few things clear to him, but…
-I'm picking up the signature of a powerful servant!
The servant appeared swiftly, with almost no sound. He held himself with pride, not arrogance, eyeing his opponents with caution, accessing his options.
-I didn't want to meet the great hero of the Mahabharata under these circumstances,-voiced Geronimo his reluctance to fight.
The opponent responded, his voice calm, lacking any kind of hostility.
-I did not wish to encounter the great man who bravely confronted a nation under these circumstances, either. However, I must raise my spear now that we're being attacked. Don't worry, I won't let the mechanized infantry interfere. This will be a battle between me and all of you. —So, prepare to fight.
Karna declared, the desire to have a fair fight clear in his voice.
-...Listen, Ritsuka. It seems he doesn't expect this to be a battle to the death. Normally, the odds would be against us, but now that he isn't going all out, we might still have a chance if we can send him flying. He's a Lancer. Summon Servants that are advantageous against him and unleash Noble Phantasms before he does. Got it? - but, Geronimo wouldn't be recorded as legend, if he didn't exploit the living hell out of opponents' weaknesses.
Ritsuka's face sported a toothy grin. Now this man gets it!
-Saber, Pretender, you are up! Archer - support duty! Assassin - look for openings! - Ritsuka rapidfire commands.
-I see you are ready. Let us fight!
Arturia didn't need to be told twice,lunching at the white-haired lancer like a comet.
Her swordsmanship was the work of art itself. Her strikes measured, her pace rapid, and the footwork stellar. She was chivalry itself…
Roland was none of those. He was everything he needed to be. When Arturia was slightly pushed, he would gun Lancer. When she cornered Karna, he would push with her, biting at him with the knife, slicing with Durandal at his hands and legs, hampering movement. As a result becoming faster and more viscous at his expanse.
And while a scoff formed on Arturia's face, as underhanded tactics left a sour taste in her mouth…
Roland was in his element. Arturia wasn't as bad of a dancer as he expected her to be. Not on the level of Angelica, but she certainly lived up to all her reputation. The exchanges continued for quite a bit but still, the Lancer was being pushed, bit by bit. Both sides came to the same conclusion almost simultaneously.
Enough was enough.
-Brahmas…
-Saber!-someone shouted out.
She pushed even harder, pinning the Lancer, not letting him evoke the name of the phantasm…
The last thing Karna would notice before being slammed by a 100 ton greatsword was a shadow of a man.
With a loud thud, Lancer was sent flying into the nearest wall, its weight crushing him beneath.
-This is our chance, get moving people! -shouted Ritsuka, and everyone dashed forward, leaving the stronghold behind.
******
-We are about half way to our destination. However…-Geronimo took a look behind him, where the Chaldean troup was marching forth.
Mostly everyone looked winded, it didn't help that it was the dead of night and some of the human representatives of their party needed some sleep.
Because while Mash's lap is the lap most superior indeed, it did little to lessen the hardness of the cold prison floor.
-Let us make camp somewhere near the leyline. That way we could also get our supplies here.
-Of course.
-Romani…
-Yeah, I'm on it. Actually, if you go to the west for some time, a kilometer or so, you'll get to the layline.
-Alright, we've got our *yawn* destination people, let's get moving.
Some twenty five - thirty minutes later they were on the leyline, Mash's shield already on the ground, receiving their camping supplies. And only those, because…
-Roland, you are a heaven sent gift. I must ask Jeanne to sing some prayers to the Lord for this, - said Rituka, clasping her hands in a prayer gesture.
-You do know that they still can go bad in there right?
-They are rations, that's highly unlikely, - responded in her stead Mash.
(AN: It was never really stated how much Roland can carry inside his gloves. So I made it so that it has enough space to include some water, rations, first aid and other essential trip supplies.)
-I honestly don't appreciate being a porter, - he said as he pulled out a pot(!), with dejection clear in his voice.
-Then you will have to deal with it, because as far as I know, there are no such expandable bags on the moonlit side of the world, - said Ritsuka, as she smiled somewhat deviously.
-Actually, those gloves would have been stripped from you, if someone ever got to hear about them, - added Romani.
-Yeah. No. I'd kill for these. Literally. If I have to, I will literally wipe out whoever touches these without my consent, - it was said in a very matter-of-fact tone and it did well to conceal the meaning of what he had said.
For a few seconds at least. Then, everyone looked at him with various degrees of bewilderment, but essentially gave up on it. Servants had the kind of obsessions you don't want to mess with, sometimes carrying them along into their heroic afterlife.
Ritsuka had a bit more of an inkling towards what this was all about, but had enough tact not to step on that landmine. As did everyone else, really.
Instead, she decided to lighten up the mood.
-Alright everyone, most people here weren't on our previous singularity trips, which means it's time for….-she drummed on her thigh with her fingers, - fireside talks!
-That name is pretty lame, you know?-expressed his opinion Roland.
-By my first command seal, I command you Pretender,- was her response and honestly, he will never admit to giving out a very bewildered yelp.
-Cut it out, - said Cu, and slapped the master on the head lightly.
-Ouch! That's why you Lancers always die! You have no freaking tact! No respect! No… Ouch!
-Whatever, - you could say Cu suffered through one such event at least once already.
Roland could only nod at Lancer with sincere thanks.
Their ever energetic master was fast to recover.
-Anyway, we just ask one another questions on silly topics, nothing too personal or in depth. We'll start with our resident porter.
-Shoot.
-What's your silliest fear?
Oh wow, that was… a very difficult question. Funnily enough, it only took him five seconds to find an answer.
-Being turned into a walking popcorn machine.
Silence.
The certainty in his voice, the time it took him to come up with it. It's like he actually knew it. To everyone, that was really weird.
-Bwah-ha-ha, alright, we are off to a great start I see. Why that, might I ask?-said Geronimo, forcing laughter back in.
-Err, there are some urban legends going around about a sentient soda machine that kills people, and one day I thought, what if it was popcorn? I then had nightmares about a random wing just pulling me off the street, stuffing my insides with clockwork and leaving just like that. Let me tell you, it can really creep a man out.
A lively laughter went around the camp.
-Now that sounds silly.
-I wouldn't be laughing if I were you. Wings have a tendency to just throw out failed experiments. That doesn't stop them from working in their own broken way.
-Well, let's hope that we never get to experience your era.
-For your sake, I hope that never happens,-and the man had never sounded so hopeful.
-Alright, moving on, we have our resident doggy.
-Okay, Master, I know you are salty but…-tried to dissuade the Hound of Ulster but…
-What's your biggest fear, Lancer? I'm waiting,-was promptly shut down.
"Oh she is really out for blood now, huh…"- thought literally everyone.
-Having a terrible Master…-he muttered.
-What have you said? I couldn't hear you.
-I guess I fear being fed to the lions?
-Where did that come from? - asked Arash.
-I honestly have no idea. It's just… a feeling I guess.
-I take offense to you fearing lions, Lancer. It's one of the animals presented in my country's flags, - said Arturia, puffing her chest slightly.
-Aren't you Welsh? They have a dragon, not a lion.
-They are my ancestors, - she responded swiftly.
-So, wait, if we feed Lancer to Saber…-Ritsuka began to mumble and Cu suddenly wanted to be anywhere but at the camp.
-Mmm, what does Lancer taste like?
Oh, if a woman ever asked that of Cu in a normal setting, he would let them get the taste of him alright. Right now though, he had a very, very bad feeling creeping down up his spine.
-Lay off the guy, will you? - came Roland to his defense.
Suddenly, a hungry lion looked at him.
-Hey, don't look at me like that. Only one woman ever got the taste of me, and she was really satisfied with the result,-Roland decided to resort to dirty jokes, thinking it could provide an opening.
A second, then another, and then it finally registered what he was on about. And Roland had to admit, it worked spectacularly, as Arturia, Mash and Ritsuka (to a lesser extent) all blushed furiously.
-You miscreant. This is not what I…!
The rant was interrupted, however.
-Fujimaru-kun, I was away to make some coffee. Your blood pressure suddenly spiked, what's happening?
-Nothing, nothing. Just some jokes being exchanged, right guys? - her eyes shifted from one servant to another, making it very clear what not to say.
-Alright? How about you head to bed though? It's already midnight, it's not ideal to go to bed after 1 am as…
-Yeah-yeah, Doc, I got'cha, no need for the lecture.
-That's good. Good night, Fujimaru-kun, Mash.
-Night-night.
-Good night.
With that, the duo retreated to their tent, leaving the servants to do their own thing. By that time, Cu and Roland both disappeared into the night.
The night was uneventful and peaceful after that.
******
The town Geronimo brought them to was quite roughed up. There were no wagons or civilians on the street. Soldiers patrolled the town at regular intervals and generally, it didn't look very lively.
-You saying that there is a servant here?
-Yes. He also happens to be the one in need of medical treatment. Follow me.
They entered a small shop that probably sold hides before (with all the equipment and pelts it was hard not to make an assumption).
In the backroom, they've found a red-haired man sprawled on the armchair, its back long since soaked in blood and a gaping hole in the man's chest.
-Holy shit…-mumbled Roland, he couldn't decide if he was astonished at the amount of blood, at the wound itself, or that the guy was still breathing! Granted, he shouldn't have been this astonished, having seen what he had.
To be honest, in his era, it probably would've been more economically beneficial to just get his body replaced outright.
Shame they were somewhere in America. Sometime in the past.
So astounded he was, that he only came back to his senses when the nurse started talking of amputating the poor man's limbs.
-Who were you fighting?-asked Mash in a small voice.
-It's no wonder really, I was fighting Cu Chulainn after all, Ireland's strongest hero…
Everyone made a comically slow turn towards the hound standing in the doorway. Who felt really awkward, as the realization of what Fionn insinuated finally dawned on him. The man on the table turned as well.
-What the hell!-he yelled and suffered instantly after.
-Don't aggravate your wounds! I'm trying to figure out how to save you, young man!
-I… forgot to introduce myself, as well… My name is Rama, king of Kosa- ouch! Agh! Be gentle!
-Shush!
-More details in Ramayana… Now would you please explain what he is doing here…-Rama was really in no position to make exclamations or fight, so he just assumed it's alright as everyone is still alive.
-Cu, don't be a stranger, give him a better look at yourself, I think I know why he was mistaken…-Ritsuka said, her hand holding her chin.
And sure enough, Rama realized his mistake as well.
-I see… You are a different Cu Chulainn. My… Kha, apologies.
-Don't bother. Whatever version of me did this, they roughted you up real good. I can see where the reaction is coming from.
He then looked at the Nightingale:
-Which makes your situation even more weird, is that by all means you should be a cold cadaver by now…
Nightingale was very quick to pull out her gun.
-Can you return back to *khah* treatment, please?- came Rama's hoarse voice, pulling Nightingale's attention.
-Of course.
-As I was saying, beyond him having his heart pierced, he now also has a curse that blocks regeneration attacking his heart. That's what makes Gae Bolg so strong, you are unlikely to survive the first hit, but even if you do, chances are, you won't get to see tomorrow.
Silence fell, as everyone tried to comprehend the situation.
-Doctor,-said NIghtingale, her voice laced with a hint of desperation and solemn stubbornness, - please, anything. This boy wants to live so much. I must help him, so, if there is any way…
-I believe I might be of help, - his voice is not quite sure, but at that point, Nightingale and Ritsuka along with her would go for anything. The Master just couldn't leave the guy like this. She truly had a bleeding heart, after all.
And so, Romani explained. It was long and winded but ultimately came down to one thing…
-So, correct me if I'm wrong, we need to find the guy's wife, so she could… facilitate his existence, removing the curse? - asked Roland, not quite knowledgeable on how this whole thing worked.
-Well, it would be easier to say that the building is broken, and we need to rebuild it, but we don't have the plans, so…-said Arash, who was surprisingly good when it came to this.
-So we need a person who has them. Now that makes sense, - his fist pressed into his open hand, eyes flaring with understanding behind the mask.
-Then our course of action is clear, - said the nurse, as she took Rama in her arms in a princess carry.
-Wh-what?!-Kha-kha, put me down this instant! What if any-ouh- if anyone sees…
Everyone looked at this comical skit with a blank look, as Rama tried to find support among his fellow heroic spirits. With obviously zero success.
-Besides healing Rama, we also need to figure out how to deal with Edison and the Celtic soldiers. I suppose Mr. Mage in the other world has some kind of plan in mind?-Geronimo shifted his eyes to Ritsuka's wrist.
-Yes, well, judging from what we have gathered so far, Medb has an almost unlimited amount of forces at her disposal. Unafraid of anything, completely loyal, and numerous to boot.
-The thought like that came to me as well, I was too afraid to voice it, however…-added Geronimo.
-Well, then we must go for the head of the serpent. Instead of dispersing our powers, trying to fight everyone, we must weaken or destroy one force completely.
-Spoken like a true tactician, Doctor. I didn't know you had it in you, judging from your frail disposition alone, - gave Arturia sincere words of praise.
-Truly, Saber is right. Your voice might seem unreliable, but you can be capable as well.
-Well then, - Ritsuka clapped her hands, gathering everyone's attention, while Romani was silently weeping, - we have a plan on our hands. Geronimo, you told us there were other servants, mind clarifying on that.
-Of course, do you have a map?- with map in hand, he continued, - Here are two archers. They are very strong in guerilla warfare, and unless someone exceptionally powerful came after them, they should still be alive. Next, I've heard of another duo of servant's but it was one of the archers that had encountered them, so it would be better to ask the man himself.
-Should we split up then? Cover more ground?-voiced his idea Cu.
-As appealing as it sounds…
-We just said that we shouldn't disperse our forces. They might send someone strong to pick us up when we are apart.
-But it isn't the brightest idea to have this much manpower and not to use it to its fullest potential, - pointed out the team's archer.
-That's true as well, but for the time being, we will be going like this. Maybe as we approach two other servants, we can split up.
-Let us move then, - declared Saber, and everyone set into motion.
******
-So, Cu, what's got you thinking so hard? - opted Roland for the straightforward approach, as both he and Cu were the last in their makeshift formation.
-That obvious, ha?
-To be fair, the thousand yard stares just don't look natural on your face.
-You mean to say that I can't think, you bastard? - there was no aggression to his voice, he was just rueful.
-Well… Yeah, kind of,-Fixer was fast to admit.
-Tch, you are not invincible, it will do you good to remember that.
-And you are not a thinker, would be better if you just spill it and get this over with.
Cu looked at the place where Roland's eyes are supposed to be. Roland faced him without unflinching.
While the Librarian couldn't be said to be very talkative… Cu reminded the Colored Fixer of Oliver in some ways, which made him interact with the man more. He was rather honest, somewhat cunning, loyal and made sure to pay his dues. There were differences, of course. Cu was more relaxed, more of a battle junky and generally less responsible.
And not a very good thinker. His life was more action filled than anything. The man preferred to do things, not think about them. Which led to this conversation.
-*Sigh* yeah, you got me. I guess, what Rama said really makes me question things.
-You are about the other Cu's appearance?
-Oh, that's a problem alright, but he is with Medb. Medb! Of all people, the unfortunate sod just had to fall into her hands, - he shook his head, amused at the cruelty of fate, - I have half a mind to pity the bastard. But he is also king…-this made Cu pause for a moment.
-And what's so bad about it?
-Roland, I never wished to be king,-a hint of… exasperation in Lancer's voice.
Roland raised a brow.
-Wasn't one to command people? Thirst for that sweet power never attracted you?
-Yeah, never. I was just a spearman in search of a good fight. I was part of the knights, fought my battles, learned under that old hag, made a son, killed him by accident, - okay, that last one made Roland question things - broke a geas and eventually died. Thanks to Medb, no less! My life was a constant string of battles, and I can't say I disliked that way of living. I love challenging people and breaking through my limits, nothing makes my blood boil quite like a good battle.
Silence settled down for a moment.
-But I always saw kings as these… spineless creatures. Bugs who don't even do battle anymore. I honestly cannot help but dread such a life. Where your senses dull and you become a slave to a seat, where you have to navigate through betrayers and liars, where there is no place for a good'ol heart-to-heart in the form of a spear to the chest.
Roland kept his mouth shut, processing what Lancer told him.
-You know, we can't really say how this other Cu came to be. Ultimately, this is this, and that is that. You are here right now, and you do you. And that guy can go fall off the cliff for all we care.
-It still leaves a bad taste in my mouth to know that there was a version of me that reduced himself… to that.
A few seconds of thinking later, the Librarian came to one conclusion.
-Well, nothing we can really do about it. You can ask him when you meet him for his reasons or whatnot but for now…-Roland took a look in front of him, when checked his sides.
Then, a can of beer appeared in his hand, which was promptly thrown to Cu.
The Irish warrior was quite taken aback by this nonetheless pleasant development, and was quick to open the beverage.
-Weren't you the one preaching professionalism?
Roland did the same, with his gloves muffling the sounds.
-I mean, yes. But it's pretty important to take your mind off of useless things, - suggested Fixer, and with a grin Cu nodded.
-Truer words have never been spoken.
-What is it that Jeanne says after praying?
-Amen.
-Amen to that!
The cans met each other, and the duo finished their fill off in one gulp.
-Oh, this doesn't taste like the usual pisswater we've got in the cafeteria. Where'd you get this? - said Cu, impressed with the taste.
-Trade secret.
"Khem-khem, Gentlemen. I can understand many things, but not fucking drinking in the middle of the JOB!" - resounded in their heads, and it was only then that the both of them noticed the glare that their Master was throwing their way.
Roland and Cu looked into the forest in sync, noticing a mop of black hair going deeper into the cover.One thought ran through their minds:
"ARASH, YOU BASTARD!"
******
-Detecting numerous signatures, potentially an enemy, they are circling the town,-was the first thing to greet the Chaldean team as they approached their destination.
-Well this is just lovely…-muttered Rama, under his breath
And that was the last they've heard of him before Nightingale sprinted forward, right into the battleground.
-Jack, follow them, don't let a stray bullet hit them, please, - Ritsuka was quick to give a command, despite Nightingale's sudden rush.
-Alright mommy! - the white haired comet ran after the medic, jumping from Roland's shoulders.
-Saber, thoughts?
-It wouldn't be wise to go right into the enemy's trap. It would do us good to dismantle it first, let the enemy's formation collapse, so we had a way out if needed.
-Romani?
-No servant signatures detected, - Doctors picked out what his charge wanted.
Risuka nodded, then gave out her order:
-Roland, Arash, you clean up the enemy forces on the right, Arturia, Cu, you will spearhead our way into the town.
-Leave it to us.
-Roger.
-Let's get moving people.
******
The cleanup wasn't anything exciting. Sniping people might not be too fun (it's almost never fun, unless you like killing people) but it sure as hell is efficient.
Roland got to the rest of the party just in time for the introductions.
-My true name is Robin Hood, and this right here is…
-Hey, it's not fun to just tell things like that outright… but fine.
-Name's William Henry McCarty, Jr. Most people just call me Billy the Kid though!-the guy did a bit of a theatrical bow.
-It seems that I, the outlaw, was chosen to save this country. Granted, it's a country I was born in, but isn't it ironic? Oh, and a pleasure to meet you!
-It's good to see that you two are alive and well, - spoke Geronimo, relief apparent in his voice.
-These are people from an organization called Chaldea, they are here to resolve the crisis. I'll let them introduce themselves.
-Alright, my name is Ritsuka Fujimaru, leader of this band of misfits! This here is Mash,-she came behind and hugged the girl on the shoulder - shielder class demi-servant. The bloke right there with the red spear is Cu Chulainn, - the Duo both looked at the servant, but realized that this wasn't the one and just nodded, - this over here is Arturia, a Saber class servant. The one trying to steal your ammo, - she looked at Jack standing right behind Billy, who turned around hurriedly, - Is Jack, she is a nice kid, don't mind her. And this here is Roland, Pretender.
-Pleasure, - he saluted the two.
They nodded back.
-By the way, where is Nightingale?-said Ritsuka, searching for the servant, and surely, finding her near one of the few houses untouched by destruction, where the ones who couldn't escape gathered.
-Like a coyote smelling blood… no, perhaps that comparison is a bit rude.
-Not to say that it's wrong,-pointed out Cu.
-Anyway, now that we are all here, what's next? - Asked Billy, and looked at Ritsuka, - You have a plan or something?
-Yes, to put simply, now we've got you, and we need more firepower. We also need to heal that guy over there, - she pointed at Rama holding onto Nightingale, - and then try and get to the root of the problem.
-So Medb? - asked Robin.
-Yes, her.
The green Archer pondered on it for a second.
-As far as plans go, I doubt we have anything more solid at the moment, so I'm in,- said Robin.
-Count me in as well,-agreed Kid.
-Good, good. Now that we've got more henchmen to do our bidding…-she laughed almost maniacally, a devious grin all the way.
-Senpai…-Mash tried to contain her embarrassment from her Master's antics.
-Don't mind her, she is a bit on the edge from all this stuff,-clarified Roland.
-Nah, don't worry about it. I'd go a bit crazy as well if I had a job description like hers,-waved his concerns off Billy.
-That's good. Say, you look like the kind of guy that knows his way around a bar. Or where all the stashes with the alcohol are. Mind sharing? -Said Cu, who Billy recognized as a fellow alcoholic straight away. Roland, for his part, just looked the other way, listening to the conversation still.
-A fellow man of culture aye?
-Khem-khem!-coughted Ritsuka. Loudly.
-Oh, come on Boss, we won't be drinking now, we'll be doing it when we set camp. Besides, the sun has almost set already. We need to have some downtime.
-I'll cover for their night watches, if you want, - suggested Roland. While he was always the one to drink (even forgoing his usual professionalism), he felt a tad bit guilty about drinking on the job for the last time.
For that matter, you could see how grateful the Lancer-Archer duo was.
-You don't mean to say that you will drink with them?
-No-no, not a drop in my mouth, Ma'am. I try to stay professional, after all,-Roland tried to convey how reliable he was.
-And wasn't it you who drank a can of beer? - which was met with a healthy dose of skepticism.
-That is that, and this is this.
-Awfully convenient, - she narrowed her eyes.
-Alright, you have my word, I won't be drinking today, - if Roland decided to resort to promises it means that he really meant it. Granted, the last time he promised something he went and broke it right away…
-Hm…-Ristuka thought hard. She knew that Servants liked to skip a drink or two. Drake made Medusa drunk, somehow, and then there was Nero, who partook in the festivities with a special kind of zeal. And if Roland covers for the two, then there is little problem…
-Alright, whatever. You do you.
-Ritsuka, we've got the map, - shouted the Apache shaman.
-I'll be there in a second, - she shouted back to Geronimo, who, along with Robin, went to fetch a map, - Alright, just don't get too drunk, you hear?
-Yes, Ma'am!- said the duo, and was off to have great adventures.
Roland, meanwhile, sighed and went to the roofs, where, soon after, Jack joined him. He spent the night playing Tic-Tac-Toe and other games, sharing stories from work and trying to make fairytales out of some urban myths.
******
It was the dead of night when Jack decided to take a nap.
Really, the girl was like a cat. She snuggled up to him, and he decided to give up his jacket, to use it as a blanket.
As he gazed at the stars up above, with the moon hanging high in all of its splendor, his thoughts drifted. He took stock of the people he was now working with, the new, unfamiliar world which he couldn't believe was the past of his own. All these noble souls with their own convictions and dreams, and stories of valor and bravery. Who could shoulder the weight of the world and never bent.
A pretender. He really was one. His deeds, or better yet, misdeeds, are nothing in comparison.
Not to say that he cared much about it. No use comparing himself to heroes, he was never one. There were no heroes in the City. Only various degrees of deplorable and desperate. And if they achieved something while trying to survive? Well, good for them.
Contemplating the present, his thoughts naturally came back to the past, to his last moments inside the Library.
When Angela asked him to do this, he didn't think much of it. Well, so what that he was now a being of Light? Like Chesed, Tiph and the rest. If all goes well he'd be a human again should he return with victory. Angela speculated he could end up in the past but Roland didn't pay it much mind. He naturally thought that he'll appear in the City, so he wasn't too excited. And those heroic spirits that he'll have to slay? They are not people, technically speaking. No use crying over them, they are already dead. Besides, how hard can it be?
His eyes shifted to Jack, who was sleeping on his lap. Yeah, no. They… no, he was a bit too optimistic about this. For someone dead they sure have all the things humans do. Hell, they feel more human than humans in the City.
He let out a sigh.
And he couldn't even begrudge anyone but himself for this. Miss Librarian gave him all the information he needed and then some, even considering the severe lack of it. She then empowered him and said some inspiring words. Not that the last part was necessary, but it was heartwarming.
His mind shifted back to reality. And as of present, he didn't have much choice on what to do. It's either letting a friend down or leaving a teenage girl to save the world. In the past, he would have just said that this was this, and that was that, and just tried to survive and get the job done. Perhaps, even killing some of the chaldean servants to accomplish it faster. Now, though, the mindset of the Cityfolk was slowly being overtaken by the one he employed in the library and this era. And he didn't want to just close his eyes to other's suffering now. He was sure Angela would think less of him if he did.
However, killing people here, killing servants, killing… Isn't that what he was doing while working in the City, during his time as a Librarian? Didn't he want to break the cycle of senseless violence…?
Ah, an epiphany came to him. This was far from senseless. Saving humanity might not be a goal he could subscribe to, mostly because he didn't believe in said humanity much, but it sure as hell sounded better than anything you can find in the City. And hey, if he helped out a friend on the way, that would make it even better. He might have accepted the summon with purely selfish intentions, but selfishness is not necessarily a bad thing. It's not being able to look beyond oneself that creates the sort of situations the City is known for.
And saving the world he never gets to see… a nice bonus, if anything.
He rarely stayed his blade when it came to killing enemies, after all.
His gaze shifted to the houses around him and a very… curious thought came to mind.
He gently tucked the assassin in his jacket and put her on the hay he took with him here. After fixing his tie, he took a look around trying to find….
-Found it.
He went to the saloon that housed all the injured.
-Argh, why can't it stop for just a second…-came a whine from one of the rooms on the first floor..
As people in this era would say: "Bingo".
Roland approached the window and seized the fragile frame of Rama. His face was contorted into a very painful grimace while his eyes were half-lidded.
Roland leaned onto the windowsill, blocking the moonlight.
-Damn, man, you look like shit, - commented Roland, idly.
Rama furrowned.
-You came here to pick a fight, Roland?
-No-no, sorry if that came out that way. Just heard you cursing, decided that maybe you could use a chat to get your mind off the pain and whatnot.
Rama, slightly taken aback by the sudden consideration from a usually carefree and aloof servant, kept silent for a moment.
-Yeah, it would be nice,- all fell silent for a moment, - what would you like to talk about, anyway? No offense, but it doesn't look like we have much in common.
-Nah, it's alright,-Roland pondered for a second and then snapped his fingers, - Right, we are on the lookout for your wife, right? How about you give me her description?
Life filled Rama's eyes, his features and body became more animated and a small smile graced his lips despite the pain.
-Sita, oh lovely Sita,-he mumbled, as if possessed.
Roland could recognize the sheer affection the man had for his wife. A lovestruck idiot can easily spot another, after all.
-She has hair the same shade as mine, styled into twintails. Her eyes are like the purest amber. She has a lithe frame, covered in a vail. Her skin is fair, with no blemish. Her posture, even after years spent in exile, never lost the grace she had as a princess. She is soft-spoken and loyal. Her heart is big and caring. She would never leave a person in their time of need. She loves animals and always helped me with healing a stray cat. She cooks, on occasion. She always loved to dress…-Roland allowed the man to express his longing for his wife, not interrupting and simply listening.
-And…kha-kha, - it was only now that Rama came to his senses.
-I am sorry to have taken so much of your time…-he blushed, slightly.
-No-no, it's alright really,-Roland then hesitated,-As a husband, I can understand where you are coming from.
-Oh? What's her name?
It was now Roland's turn to go down the memory lane…
-Angelica. She was… exceptional. Beautiful, of course, but she also could easily get people to open up. She was energetic and knew little about social boundaries. Usually wore black, with this ring, my brother-in-law's present, hung on her neck. Her hair was pristine silver and matched her calm blue eyes. She was someone who took the difficulties of life in stride. Even despite our job she found it in herself to enjoy little things the damned City had. She liked to dance and dragged me to one of those dance studios…-only half the way into his tirade, Roland noticed that he was revealing perhaps too much about himself. But he couldn't find it in himself to care. His wife was a topic he tended to avoid, but when met with a person who was, clearly, just as madly in love as he was, he subconsciously decided that he was trustworthy.
And Roland really didn't have much of an opportunity to brag how much of a badass his wife was, so… he took an opportunity?
As the fixer finished, Rama looked at him.
-Hey, can you take off that mask, if you don't mind, of course? It would feel better to talk to the one behind it.
-Ah, sorry for that, I guess. I usually wear it when on the job, force of habit at this point.
-It's alright,-Rama's gaze went beyond Roland, to the stars in the sky, his eyes relaying his deep contemplation.
-Roland, have you… regretted something in your marriage?
Fixer scratched his chin, pondering about it. There were several. All of them culminating into one big mess that was his life before the Library.
-Once, because of circumstance, I couldn't provide a better place for us to live. My past came back to bite me, so to speak. Living in the City is dangerous, you tend to not go out without a weapon where everyone can see it. She assured me that everything was fine, but made me promise that I won't blame myself, which implied that I won't go and do stupid things if anything happens to her.
Rama saw where this was going.
-The rest you can guess,-his voice grew solemn.
A small moment of silence passed between them as Rama gathered himself.
-I regret… you see, me and Sita were cursed. After a woman I widowed discovered what had happened to her husband, she cursed us to never in our life meet each other. We would always be in the same place, but would never be able to see each other. One day, I… I questioned if she was still loyal to me. To prove her purity she stepped into flames and came out unscathed.
His face morphed into a mask of self-loathing.
-I wanted nothing but kill myself for ever doubting her… and then our exile was over, we came back, and I gave in to the evil tongues, saying that she wasn't pure, that she was tainted. A deed I regret to this day is exiling her to the woods again. All alone. She gave birth to two beautiful sons, our children, yet couldn't join us as a family.
"…would you look at that, terrible life stories predated the City," -thought Roland sarcastically, trying to swallow the somewhat bitter feeling that came with the story.
-We both eventually died. Never meeting again,-finished Indian hero his tale.
-Yet… yet, I'd like to think that in this singularity, possibly, we will be able to meet again. Even in passing, even just a glimpse of her…-the hero of Indian epic, now just a loving husband, reached out with his hand to the distant stars, yet grasping nothing but air.
Roland kept his silence, letting a fellow widower mourn for a bit.
The door to the room creaked and their resident nurse stepped into the room, her gaze quickly accessing the situation.
-I see. I'm afraid that the patient needs rest. I must ask you to leave, Roland.
Saber and Pretender exchanged glances and then, reaching a sort of agreement, nodded.
-Thanks for the chat, Roland. You don't know how much it helped, - Rama smiled weakly.
-Don't mention it. Been a while since I just talked about things, and people didn't beat the needed realizations out of me.
Rama furrowed his brows, confused, Nightingale remained impassive.
-I'll be going then,-he turned to leave…
-Hold on, before you go, If I understood correctly, you wanted to ask if you could potentially meet your wife like me, right?
Roland gave a curt nod. Rama was sharp. This was his intention, before he got engrossed in their chat.
-As long as she was recorder in the throne, everything is possible, so don't lose hope.
Roland smiled. It was a weary smile. A smile of a man who didn't want to raise his hopes high.
-I'll think about it. Good night.
-You have a safe night as well.
With that, Fixer jumped onto the roof, where his perch was, spending the rest of the night in silence, with Jack by his side.
******
The morning came quietly. The townspeople scattered around, collecting their belongings, tending to what was left of their livelihood.
Roland was enjoying the rising sun. In the City it would just mark the start of another day, another cycle to go through.
Here though, in the wilderness, where trees were scarce and the sky was clear blue, it all acquired this magical quality, long lost to those living in Roland's times.
"Shame I don't have any cameras with me… I'm sure Angela would kill to just witness this view. Nay, every librarian would."
He looked below. Nightingale did last check ups on the villagers, somewhere from the directions of the barns, a trio of Cu, Billy and Arash came stumbling on uneven feet. Geronimo was already up and about, bouncing ideas with Robin…
On wobbly feet, his master stumbled out of one of the houses, stretching, yawning, and trying to navigate herself to the well. Mash tried to assist her as much as possible.
-Mhm-mhm,-that was from Jack, who tried and failed to dig herself deeper into his jacket.
Roland shook her carefully.
-C'mon little Jack, time to wake up. You don't want to skip out on breakfast, right?
-5moreminutes.
-No-no, that won't do. We have places to be today, after all.
-Noooo, don't want toooo
Okay, this was just adorable.
"Roland? *Yawn* We gather in the saloon in five. Bring Jack with you".
First of all, how can you yawn telepathically?
And second, unfortunately Jack won't be getting any more Zs.
Roland yanked his jacket, exposing the little assassin to the merciless daylight.
-Uncle, you meanie!
-Sorry Jacky, but duty calls. Your… mommy called, said that we need to report to her in five minutes.
-Yawn, alright, alright.
The girl stretched almost looking like a cat, then did some sit-ups, and with a last long yawn, gave him a thumbs up.
-I'm ready, uncle Meanie.
-Yes-yes, princess, I'm really sorry,-he said, dismissively, a tiny grin on his face.
The duo arrived into a relatively spacious room with all the furniture except for the table moved to the walls.
-Alright, everyone, after some consideration we came up with a plan.
Servants listened in rapt attention.
-After some discussion we found out that there are two free servants.
-Both are not quite… there, if you catch my drift,- Robin winced as he remembered the duo.
-Unfortunately, we can't be picky with the servants we recruit,-commented Geronimo and Arturia nodded, agreeing with that point.
-The thing is, both of them are ways apart.
-One should be here,-Robin pointed at the town to the east,-And another is here,-he pointed at the city to the west.
-The two are separated by a very large forest. So we've decided to separate into two groups. One: Roland, Cu, Billy, Jack - will head west. The other, consisting of me, Nightingale + Rama, Robin, Mash, Ritsuka, Arash and Arturia will head east, - spelled out Geronimo their group compositions.
-So, a quick unit and a strong hitting unit, - voiced his deductions Cu, parts of his speech were a bit slurred.He still hadn't recovered from their night of drinking, it seems.
-Basically. It's usually not recommended to split up with the servants, but ten people heading in the same direction is inefficient, so it was decided to split up,-explained Mash their reasoning.
-Any idea who we are looking for here?-asked Roland.
-It's either a blond bride or a pink-haired dragon.
-Alright?- Fixer wasn't sure what to make of that statement.
-Also, here. This is a spare communicator,-Ritsuka handed Librarian the device.
-With this thing, you can ask me to scan the surroundings, I'll also be able to notify you if there are any servant presences in the vicinity, - communicator came to life, with Romani's face looking straight at Roland.
-Neat.
-I should also remind you to ask if they have any information on Sita,-Rama said, giving Roland a small nod, which he returned.
-Well, the brief is over. Get your things into order, we leave in thirty.
With that, Ritsuka left to pack her meager belongings and the rest scattered: preparing, resting, or suffering from the hangover.
******
It took the team of four a full twenty four hour day of walking to reach their destination.
As servants, they didn't need to concern themselves with how tired they were, so they just made a beeline to their destination, unlike the other team, which was only halfway there.
-Remind me, who did Green say we need to look for?-asked Cu.
-A pink dragon,-quipped Billy.
-Or a white bride, - continued Roland.
-A magical girl!-declared Jack proudly.
-No thank you,-was quick to deny that possibility Roland.
-What? Why? I think Nursery and Mommy said that magical girls are good.
-Right until you fight them. Or see even half of the experiences they go through.
-It feels very weird that you speak of it with so much certainty…-pointed out Cu, leaving the question hanging in the air.
Certainty didn't even begin to describe it. Having resonated with the Library on Tiph's floor, he managed to get a glimpse of what those Magical Girls went through.
He could confidently say that the lives they lead is not one of glory and happiness. Far from it…
-I won't be answering that. For the sake of my dignity.
-Suit yourself,-Cu shrugged, not pushing it.
-Anyway… where do we start the search?-voiced Billy what was on everyone's mind.
-Splitting up sounds like such a good idea. So, let's just go around and ask if some of the locals have seen someone distinct.
It only took them ten minutes to find a lead.
-Yes-yes, I 'member a lady, blond hair, fancy dress and a very big sword. Stuck 'round the north of town. Not many people sticking 'round those parts nowadays 'coz of her. Scared shtiless, I tell you. She was tinkering with something and really, us folks want no part in that,- said one of the townspeople, describing in colorful detail who it was that they needed to recruit.
-Thanks pal, 'preciate that, -said Cu and looked at Billy.
-Oi, Billy, do we have any of that good stuff leftover? Can't leave a good man without some payment.
-Sure do,-he tossed a bottle of moonshine to Cu.
-Thanks. Here pal, knock yourself out. Mighty good stuff.
The man tipped his hat.
-Pleasure doing business, mate. Be careful out there, many bad things are happening nowadays.
-Sure will. Now, - he turned to the group, - we heading out?
-No need to dally, so yeah.
And so, the quartet headed to the north, where they found…
-Is she… building a stage or something?-questioned Roland.
-I think so? Wait, are those decorations?
-Did she really garther the whole wagon of tumbleweeds?-half asked, half wheezed Billy.
-...
-Maybe we can just leave her here? Say that we didn't find anyone?
-Registering one other servant's signature. Great job guys!-came from Romani.
"Guess not" - a thought passed through the adults' minds.
-Well, mate,-Cu put a hand on Roland's shoulder in show of support,-You deal with this stuff. You're the team leader, after all. Best of luck and…-Cu grabbed Billy on the elbow and dragged him to the nearest saloon,-we'll be watching from there.
-Hold on a f..-he remembered that Jack was watching,- you lot. What if she attacks me? Or I need some support? I can't do this thing alone. If you don't remember, I can hardly make heads or tails of what the sensibilities of modern humans are.
-Yeah, sure, whatever, spoilsport.
So they approached the bride. Three grown men in costumes and one excited girl.
-Hello?
-Um? Ah! Fans! Sorry, sorry, not signing anything just yet. Need to kick-start my career first. But I'll be sure to sign everything on the fanmeeting after the premier,-something seemed to have snapped in her head, - Actually, I can offer you to help me with the preparations, I'm quite understaffed. I will be sure to include your name when the credits roll!-the girl exuded an untold amount of enthusiasm.
As soon as Saber turned around to continue doing… whatever she was doing, Roland opened the communicator.
-Pss, Doc?
-What is it Roland?
-Have cameras and cinemas been invented yet?
-...it's at least a hundred years away.
The silent question of how she was going to pull this off was left unsaid.
-I suggest you press the advantage. Say that no one is going to watch movies with the war going on.
-Good idea. Thanks doc.
-Ring up if you need anything.
He exchanged glances with Cu and Billy, Jack was helping out the up and coming actress.
-Say, - Roland approached the bride, - What's your name? I have to know the name of the future actress.
-Umu-umu. Of course! My magnificence should have a name attached to it. I am an emperor-actress Nero Claudius! My name will ring throughout the entire Hollywood, bringing me immense fame!
Well, what a colorful character.
-And my name is Roland. Listen, I…er, me and my friends here, were looking to recruit you into our…-is it a good idea to admit straight away that you are a group of servants who fight for humanity? It doesn't sound like anything she could subscribe under.
-Troup,-said Cu, thinking on his feet.
-Yes. We wanted to start up with some acting careers as well, but with the war everywhere no one wants to see acting of any kind. Sooo, we'd like to ask if you were interested in helping us clean this mess up? It will help you out too.
He was a wandering trouper now. From Fixer, to Librarian, to a wandering actor… Good going Roland, at this pace, you will become a part of an ensemble of sickos…
Ah, right, that role was reserved for his brother-in-law. Although, the comparison itself wasn't pleasing.
-Hmm,-she seized the trio up,-Well, Roland, you look kind of average, although well-built and have that certain bad-boyish charm about you, not to mention mysterious… Oh, and you, blue hair. Very dangerous aura, sure to captivate many a fangirl… And this cowboy here appeals to some very common archetypes. Yes-yes! I can see how this can work.
She then looked a bit downcast.
-...So that's why no one was around these days… Truly, without art, how can we hope to reach people's hearts! - she looked to the ground, reaching her own conclusions. Roland wasn't sure he wanted to know what went through her head.
-Umu! I will help you!
-Great-great,-lying through his teeth like that in the face of such innocence made Roland feel a bit bad…-We have the rest of our group picking up one of our other members, we wanted to meet up in the town down south. When will you be ready to depart?
-Hmm, give me a day from now? I need to pack all of my costumes, make preparations…
"Oh dear God that Jeanne keeps praying to, can you do me a solid and make this stop?"
His prayers were left unanswered.
-Alright, we'll meet with you tomorrow, come midday? Is that okay with you?-Cu intertwined, noticing how distant Roland's gaze had become.
-Sure, I'll be all ready by that time!
And with that, the emperor was off to prepare.
A long sigh went around the group.
-Say, should we hit the saloon while we have time? - proposed Cu, turning to the duo.
-Sure, do we have the money though? - asked Roland.
-Does it matter? - retorted Billy, a famous outlaw who had paid for his drinks… probably never.
-Fair enough.
******
*Poke-poke*
-Uuuncle Rooooland. Wake up, uncle Roland,-came a hushed whisper.
-Jack? That you? - slurred Roland his words, as his eyes fluttered open, just to close as fast, from the intense sunlight.
-umu, should I bring water, maybe?
Roland turned around, where the sun didn't shine and started blinking rapidly.
-Yes, please, - he said, forgetting that he had some of it stored in his gloves.
-okay.
The girl returned two minutes later.
And promptly poured the bucket of cold water on his head.
-What the f…reak!-he yelped,barely standing up, flustered and awake.
Jack was curious from the reaction. Many old ladies around town told her to do this. She didn't quite trust them so she asked mommy, but she also said that it was "the best way to get their sorry asses back into working order".
What did it have to do with their butts though? And why were they sorry? For what?
Well, her uncle was awake now, that's all that mattered!
-I'll go bring more water to wake up other uncles!-aaand she was gone.
Fixer took stock of his surroundings and himself. His suit was wet, but otherwise, not damaged or dirty (probably the special properties of the fabric kicking in). He himself was inside some kind of barn, lying in a haystack.
Roland downed a bottle of water and finally felt like a human being again. His eyes settled on Cu and Billy lying in the haystack a bit away from him, with at least 10 bottles of moonshine scattered around.
His communicator buzzed alive.
-Ah, you are awake. Finally, it's almost midday as well. The other group has already secured a freeservant and are on their way, however I must remind you that drinking like that…-the rest of the admonishment Roland promptly erased from his mind. He was sure, if he was still hungover, he would've snapped. But he is a servant now, so it takes a lot of alcohol to get drunk, and not so much time to get his shit back together.
*SPLASH*
-AAAARRGG! God damn…
-Holy shii!!
That was Jack splashing water on the other two. Don't mind them.
-Alright, you lot, we have stuff to do, get up, - he approached the lancer-archer duo, giving both a bottle of water.
-Yeah-yeah, damn that was one hell of a night.
-Argh…
-Come on, we really are pressed for time, it's almost midday. And master is going to have our hides if we screw up.
-Spoken like a true servant…
-You don't know how true that statement is,-commented Fixer-Librarian-Servant, who had to do a lot of things on someone's orders.
Everyone got their shit together relatively quickly and twenty minutes later, they were already at the place where Nero lived.
-Alright boys! You each will have to take one of the cases. It's a shame that…
-Detecting numerous signatures heading your way! One of them is a servant! - popped Romani's head above Roland's wrist.
Everyone tensed up, Cu grabbing hold of his spear, Billy had his hand on his revolver and Nero,was confused but with hand on the handle of the sword. Jack disappeared as soon as the info went through.
-Will be in your line of sight in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1…
A man with short purple hair, bushy eyebrows and a good natured grin appeared from behind the corner. He wore nothing but pants, with a sword laying on his shoulder. His eyes scanned the quartet present, grin becoming wider.
-If that isn't Setanta! The original one, no less! Pleasure to see you, kiddo! Up to some mischief, I see!
-Oh fuck no… this is bad.
Roland turned to him slightly, eyes still on his front.
Cu realized the unasked question.
-The weapon in his hands has a natural advantage against me,-he whispered, then, shouted out, - Oi, old man Fergus, it sure is a pleasure to see you as well. If you don't mind me asking, the hell are you doing here?
-Why, helping out my Queen, of course. Quite a fruitful hunt as well, met three servants on my way here. And now it's going to be four more! HA-HA-HA!
"The guy sure is boisterous."-made Roland an offhand comment in his head.
-Quite a surprise seeing you here, actually. Maybe we can finish what we couldn't last time?
-Nah, I'll pass, I have a master I'll have to return to.
-Shame! Thought we could settle some old scores with this one,-the man looked a bit down, his brows knitting slightly, but it all disappeared the next moment.
-Well…
-No-no-no! Old man, I might not be willing to fight but this guy right here! - he pointed at Roland, - He is a solid fighter. Tell you what, how about you guys duke it out like the old times? Duel and all that.
-You attest to his skill? Surprising!- Fergus seized Roland up. Cu's statement held true, the man had some experience, looked dangerous as well.
-What the fuck are you doing?- said Roland through his gritted teeth.
-Saving our lives, dumbass.
-Alright then, even though I'd like to fight with the lady there,-he looked at Nero, winking, enamored, - and not only just fight but also "fight" in bed, - Nero wasn't sure what to feel about that,- but if Cu vouches for you, then you are a warrior of high caliber. Not letting the likes of those go without a good fight.
-Though, it would be remiss if I left the rest without entertainment, - with a snap, a battalion of celtic warriors marched into the street.
-Signatures, hundred in number!
-Yeah, we can see those…-mumbled Billy, gun at the ready.
A fragile silence settled between the two parties.
-Let us do battle!-shouted Fergus, and the team of servants dispersed.
Roland didn't have to wait long for Fergus, as the next second, he had to take Caladbolg on Wheels Industry.
-Sturdy!-commented Irish warrior, as he swung Caladbolg once again, Rolands feet sliding off the ground.
From behind the greatsword, two shots found their mark in the giant's shoulders, missing the head. Fergus was momentarily stunned, giving Roland just the opportunity. Two swords in hand, he sped up, biting at opponents arms.
With no results, as Fergus predicted Roland's course of action, with hits landing on Caladbolg, retaliating with a thrust to the chest, almost catching fixer off-balance.
But Roland had years of experience fighting against foes both stronger and more durable.
He skirted around Caladbolg, barely avoiding it, but successfully getting a hit with a knife, not fast enough to block a fist to the face though.
A ferocious grin appeared on Fergus' face.
Staggering back, Roland was not ready for the beating that came.
*THUD*
A jab to the face.
*SLAM*
A haymaker that Roland managed to avoid hitting his head.
-HA-HA-HA,-with a laugh, Fergus slammed into Roland, launching a kick along.
Yes, the Irish warrior decided to abandon his sword in favor of thrashing his opponent with a fist.
Someplace away, Cu couldn't contain a grin. That was his friend alright
*SLICE*
That got caught on the blade of Durandal.
*Clank-clank*
Caladbolg was fast to reappear, blocking the onslaught of precise strikes from the Fixer.
Blows were exchanged, with Roland barely catching up. Librarian could only make the best of the bad situation, as he redirected lethal blows, losing a lot of ground.
*Slice*
Forearm.
*slice*
Midriff
*slice*
Calf
Cuts covered Fixer's body, tainting his black suit with blood.
*DRIP*
But Durandal tasting some blood made all the difference.
Roland got a boost to his strength, tipping the scales just enough to give an opening.
Launching the caladbolg slightly higher with durandal, Fergus had his left wide open.
Ripping through the air, a spear pierced a chunk of his side.
Roland made for a hasty retreat, spraying bullets to limit the giant's momentum.
Too bad an A rank endurance is nothing to scoff at.
Fergus was ready, evading or even slicing the rounds midair, making his way.
With Caladbolg midswing, Roland parried.
What would have been a deafening screech of metal was consumed by the gloves as parmach redirected the blow by a hair's breadth, hatchet digging in the opponents leg.
If Fergus' bloodthirsty grin was any indication, the man was enjoying this.
Grabbing Roland by the hand he flung him into the building, the wood giving in beneath a "strength A" throw.
Part of the building collapsed, burying the Fixer, raising a cloud of dust along with it.
Destroying most of Nero's belongings. Not that anyone minded.
With no fear, Fergus charged into the cloud, Caladbolg eager to pierce the enemy.
With a dull thud, the tip of the sword was buried into the earth with a swing of a hammer.
Roland already had his hand on the handle of the katana…
With a flurry of slices, Irishman had his body riddled with cuts of varied severity.
…Ultimetely failing to do any serious damage, as Fergus managed to sense where the most threatening attacks would lend, eye of mind coming in clutch.
A standstill. With Fergus having a satisfied smile and Roland, dirty, bloodied and his mask chipped.
-Ha-ha-ha, I've only just remembered that I didn't get your name! Tell me, Cu's friend, what are you called!
Collecting his breath, Roland decided to humor the man.
-Huff-huff, well I'm on the job now, so I can't tell you that. My grandma told me that keeping one's name secret is a must in the field. Though for my misadventures I've been called Black Silence,-his voice was laced with hidden irony.
-Well, then, Silence,-he brought Caladbolg up, a menacing grin overtaking Fergus' face.
-Calad…
*BANG-BANG*
It was not to be…
Amidst two bullets taking flight, one word left Roland's lips.
-Furioso.
Bullets raced to the warrior's forehead, momentarily stunning him.
Leaving a shockwave behind, the spear plunged through the right side of Fergus.
Not giving any time to recover, the hummer struck Fergus' head.
With each attack, Roland became faster, hit harder. His fury put into a combo of attacks. Not giving the giant a time to retaliate.
Next thing Fergus felt was his hands being sliced off.
Then, a claw and a knife ripped through his insides.
A hatched latched into his chest, a parmach knocked the breath out of his lungs.
With an overhead strike, a hundred tons of mass descended on his legs, followed by two swords biting into his stomach.
With a shotgun pallet to the back, and enduring pain, he witnessed how a black sword slices through his arms.
Throughout this scene, a smile never left Fergus' face, as strained as it was.
He's finally got to experience a warrior's death.
As his body collapsed, his gaze didn't leave the one who felled him.
Roland took off his mask. His face not showing more than slight exasperation.
The man was truly hard to kill and acted… off, for anyone who was familiar with the fighting in the City.
-Ha-ha, why the long face, mate?
-Dunno, not feeling much fun from this…
-'Tis a shame! The battle was glorious. Nothing wrong in feeling proud of killing another in a duel! - he sounded proud from being killed this way. Roland didn't get it.
-Those went outta fashion a long time ago, you know?-his voice was a perfect mirror of his face.
-Haven't heard anything sadder in my life,-Fergus shook his head, truly upset.
-There is no place for honesty where I'm from,-Roland admitted, resigned.
-Then I must thank you for being better than the rest.
Roland shrugged. He didn't feel like this was any different from his over elimination contracts.
As Fergus' body started to turn into golden dust, Roland decided to ask a question.
-Say, you know anything about a girl named Sita? Red hair, lithe build, wields a bow.
The Irishman looked him dead in the eye and gave a weak smile.
-Yes, heard something like that. She was captured and turned to the Alcatraz. Don't know anything more.
Did Roland trust what the man said…?
Maybe he was enough of a fool to actually do.
-Thanks. And name is Roland, by the way. See no need to hide it when you are biting it.
The smile got wider.
-May we fight again, Roland, - said Fergus his parting words, contet with the result.
Fixer stood up from the rabble, hands in pockets, back turned to the dying man.
-Sure, Fergus.
The golden dust scattered in the wind.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Skills:
Being of Light.
Grants Mana at the rank of C along with Magic Resistance D.
Noble Phantasm:
Furioso - --- ( Anti-Unit )
A technique developed by Roland, where he uses all of his weaponry to perform a series of devastating attacks. There is a requirement to use every weapon in his arsenal before performing it. When performing, each strike makes Roland faster with the peak at A+ agility, after finishing, it resets to default speed (however, the wounds with Durandal do give him additional strength, in accordance with the singularity listed earlier.