Chapter 9 - Edinburgh

"Oh, finally. It's about time I get some decent food after all the effort getting here…"

Mordred was happy to be off that train. She and the others had been travelling non-stop since leaving Chaldea and she wanted to fill-up her stomach. She was walking off the station platform with her luggage, and Jekyll walking beside her, meeting up with the masters and servants at concourse level.

"The food on the train wasn't that bad, was it?" The Assassin asked.

"If you could even call that food… it was hardly a step up from the trash they gave us on the plane. The only thing I think was worse would have been Gawain's cooking back in Camelot-"

"Shhh…," Jekyll interrupted her with a whisper. "We're not in Chaldea anymore. Watch what you say."

"Yeah, yeah. Secrecy. I've got you, Beansprout." Mordred waved off nonchalantly. She looked around at the crowds of people they walked past, some of whom were stealing glances at her.

"I don't like the looks they're all giving me…" Mordred grumbled before firing at a male passer-by who starred at her. "What are you looking at?"

"Calm yourself, Mordred," Jekyll said. "It's only springtime and everyone is wearing a coat. Someone wearing a tube-top and short-shorts this time of year is bound to turn heads."

"Hmph! They should try wearing a stuffy suit of armor for several hours straight. They'll be more than thankful to wear something that lets them move and breathe."

Jekyll couldn't argue with that as Mordred looked around for signs of their party.

"Where are the masters?"

"Hey! Over here!" A familiar voice called out. The two servants spotted Gabrielle and Mashu by the exit doors and made their way up to them.

"Everyone is just outside," Gabrielle explained before they could ask. "Gudao is meeting with the rep from the Mage's Association right now. Shall we join them?"

They made their way outside onto an arch-bridge over the station, where the rest of the group were waiting and taking in the sights. Mordred looked around at the cityscape, marveling at its historic, yet at the same time, contemporary charm. Edinburgh presented its roots very well, mixing modern urban characteristics and architecture alongside older buildings, some of which looked to have been around for centuries. The city's centerpiece was a grand castle complex that stood on a rocky hill overlooking the city. It reminded Mordred of Camelot, despite this castle being from a different time period.

-Maybe coming here wasn't such a bad idea after all.-

"Hey Jeanne! You have to come see this view!"

"Astolfo! Get down from there before we get in trouble!"

Mordred turned and spotted Jeanne trying to talk Astolfo down from a stone column he had climbed on; the Rider could never sit still for very long. Mordred then saw Gudao and Cu Chulainn chatting with a very professional looking woman that she did not recognize.

-That must be the Association's representative.-

The Saber then finds Arturia and Emiya together on a nearby railing in conversation. She felt a familiar pang of jealousy seeing the two of them so close, both literally and figuratively. Whatever those two have together, it was still far beyond what Mordred felt she will ever have with her father. She inched closer and listened into what the two servants were discussing.

"It's quite the sight, huh Saber?" Emiya said to Arturia.

"Yes Shirou. This city is truly beautiful," Arturia replied as she gazed out over the bridge. She noticed a mountain looming over behind the many buildings that looked to be within a mile from where they stood. "What's that mountain over there?"

"You tell me… you've seen it before."

"I have?" She looked at Emiya surprised.

"That mountain is called Arthur's Seat. I've read a brochure on the train ride over here. It's named after you."

Arturia looked back at the ancient mountain, racking her brain of where she had seen it in her lifetime. Her eyes widened in recognition when she at last realized:

"That is where I've fought Vortigern."

Mordred overheard and was intrigued. Her father's feud with the feared warlord was before her time with the Knights of the Round. She had never thought to ask anyone back then about those encounters, so it made her want to know more.

"Your rival king?" Emiya asks.

"That's right," Arturia affirmed with a nod before telling her former master her story. "He challenged my right to the throne and launched a surprise attack on my fledgling forces. During my first encounter with him, he broke Caliburn and declared himself superior to me. Defeated, I took the fragments to Vivian: the Lady of the Lake, who re-forged it into Excalibur. My forces met him again and this time we took Britain back. Vortigern fled north to a mountain beyond Hadrian's Wall. Me and my knights pursued him, but when we finally caught up to him, he had turned into a dragon and attacked us."

-Father had fought a dragon? Mordred thought amazed as Emiya continued to inquire.-

"A dragon? How did he do that?"

"Let me explain. Long before I pulled Caliburn from the stone, Merlin imbued me with the magical core of a dragon. My body was young enough to adapt to it, so it strengthened me. Vortigern thought he could do the same thing after I bested him with Excalibur, but he was incompatible, so it twisted his body into that of a monster."

"But Vortigern wasn't a mage. How could he have-?"

"Morgan," Arturia answered coldly while Mordred seethed at the mention of her vile mother. "They conspired together to eliminate my authority over Britain. It was the first of her many despicable acts against me."

"What happened after he turned?"

"He set the entire mountain aflame from above. He would've destroyed nearby villages and farmland if we did not oppose him then. After a fierce struggle, I used the lance; Rhongomyniad to knock him out of the sky. Merlin was able to reverse his transformation and we took him back to Camelot to be executed." She took a deep breath before continuing. "His last words to me were that I was no different than he was; I was a monster who would bring my people ruin. I cut him down before he finished, silencing him. Things very slowly fell apart after that…"

Arturia trailed off and looked away from Emiya. She need not have said anymore as the Archer knew everything that happened to Arturia from that point onwards. He could tell from the weight of the Saber's voice, she was still ashamed of how her kingdom turned out.

"You don't still wish to… you know…" Emiya asked cautiously, unsure of what her reaction would be.

"No Shirou," Arturia said resolutely. "Whatever has happened could not have turned out any other way. I stand by what you taught me in our war."

That caught Mordred's attention. She never knew until now that Arturia had been in a previous Grail War. If her father had been a participant then that meant that she had a wish for the Holy Grail.

-What could've been her wish?- Mordred wondered. -Maybe to have lived past Camlann? Figures since that's when I ended her reign... She could even have me erased from exis--

Mordred nearly jumped when she felt a hand tap her shoulder. She turned, ready to give the offender a taste of her fist, but stopped when it turned out to be Jekyll.

"I'm pretty sure eavesdropping is unbecoming of a knight..." He stated with a disapproving look. "Your father would agree."

Before Mordred could retort, Gudao called up all the servants.

"Alright everyone, gather 'round. We have some things to go over."

Astolfo at last got down from his perch and followed Jeanne as Gabrielle and the other servants gathered waiting for Gudao. He and Cu came up to them with the Association Representative close behind. She was tall, pale, and had long, flowing blonde-hair that was tied in a ponytail. The woman also wore attire consisting of a shirt-jacket combo, with knee-length skirt, stockings, high heels, and half-rimmed glasses framing her soft-green eyes. Mordred noted her perfect posture indicative of professionalism; someone trying too hard to impress.

She already disliked her.

"Everyone, this is Margaery Fairborough from the Mage's Association," Gudao said, introducing everyone to the woman. "She will be monitoring our activity during our stay in Scotland."

"It is my honor to meet all of you," Margaery said with a bow. She smiled as she explained, "It truly is a pleasure to become acquainted with such prestigious figures as yourselves."

Arturia was eyeing this woman with careful attention as she continued.

"Mr. Fujimaru has explained to me your purpose for being in Scotland, and I am here to ensure none of us get into unnecessary trouble during your stay. Myself, along with everyone at the Association are committed to providing whatever services you may need."

"Thank you Ms. Fairborough, on behalf of us servants of Chaldea," Arturia bowed in gratitude. Margaery turns to her and her face lights up in delight.

"Such courtesy… you must be King Arthur!" Margaery excitedly shook Arturia's hand despite the Saber not offering one. Arturia stood there stunned at the associate's display of admiration. "Fujimaru has told me all about you, yet you young lady are cuter than I ever imagined!"

Arturia blushed deeply, earning stifled laughter from Jeanne and Emiya. They both knew that the Saber was not used to being complimented like this. Mordred on the other hand crossed her arms in annoyance.

-Father has another admirer. Curse her B-rank Charisma…-

"W-Why… uhm, th-thank you so much," Arturia stammered, eventually snapping out of her surprise. "No one has ever said that about me…"

Fairborough just giggled at her response. Her cheeriness made Mordred want to vomit.

"You are so modest too! Absolutely adorable!"

"Yeah, it works on everyone…" Mordred grumbled out-loud much to everyone's surprise, earning her a scolding retort from Arturia.

"Mordred! Mind your manners!"

Curiously, Margery was not at all offended. She turned to the feisty Saber with a scrutinizing gaze.

"Ah yes… Mordred," Fairborough said with no hint of admiration, narrowing her eyes. "I was equally surprised to learn you of all people qualified as a Heroic Spirit, considering your legend is lacking in the heroic category…"

Mordred glared at her, feeling offended while Arturia tried to defuse the tension.

"My apologies Ms Fairborough. Mordred is one of my knights, but she can be a handful…"

"So I see…" Fairborough replied, not taking her eyes off the red Saber. "You should heed your king's advice young knight. I too would expect more manners from a lady…"

That caused Mordred's anger to spike, making her clench her fist and whisper coldly.

"What did you-?!"

She was stopped by Jekyll, who grabbed her arm before she could react. She looked back into the Assassin's eyes, telling her to calm down. Mordred relaxed, but inside she was still seething. She wanted to tear this woman apart for trampling on her pride. With her father's scorn hanging over her, she also felt unwelcome in the group. Fairborough remarked:

"It seems that you do have some of your king's good sense. By the way, I would watch that temper of yours…"

"Anyway," Gudao stepped in before Mordred could do anything rash. "Here's the plan. We are going to rent some cars, while Margaery gets drivers from the Association to take us up north."

"We're not staying in Edinburgh?" Jeanne asked.

"Not yet," Gabrielle corrected. "We thought it would be great to save here for last. We're going to start our trip in the Isle of Skye."

Not everyone thought that to be very exciting. Astolfo was visibly disappointed, as he was enjoying himself up until now. Arturia found herself becoming suspicious of the masters' motives.

Nothing about this trip has made sense so far. Are the masters withholding something from us? Why are we really here?

"So while we make preparations, all of you can explore the city at your leisure," Gudao explained, taking a brief glance at his watch. "Just be sure to meet back here in an hour and- wait. " Gudao suddenly stopped and looked around in concern. "Where's Mordred?"

Everyone looked around for the servant in question. It became apparent that the Knight of Treachery was no longer with the group, and must have slipped away when no one was paying attention. Arturia and Jekyll eventually spotted the knight walking away hurriedly with her head cast down.

"Mordred, what are-? " Jekyll tried to stop her, only to be cut off by Arturia. She wasn't about to let her knight off the hook for acting so immaturely.

"Mordred! Come back here this instant!"

Her command went ignored as Mordred disappeared into a crowd of people. Arturia was about to go after her when Fairborough stopped her.

"Leave her be. The child could use a time-out right now."

Arturia reluctantly stayed where she was. Nothing she could say would bring Mordred back, and it was clear to the King of Knights that she wanted to be alone. Gudao walked up behind her and said solemnly:

"Arturia, I can order her back-"

"That will not be necessary Master," Arturia said sadly. She was internally chastising herself for letting Mordred leave without an apology to Ms. Fairborough, yet she could never let the master use a Command Seal to influence Mordred against her will. It would stain her honor as both a knight and king to have to do that to her. Deep down, she knew Gudao would never want to either and blessed him for being so considerate.

Astolfo had been watching the whole thing unfold and wanted to help his friend, even if the Saber didn't want any at the moment. The Rider just couldn't stand by when he felt something was wrong. He gave Gudao a tap on the shoulder, catching his attention and asked discreetly:

"Can we talk for a second?"

As the paladin pulled Gudao aside, Gabrielle walked up beside Margery.

"Ms. Fairborough," Gabrielle said to the Associate. "That wasn't right of you to talk down to Mordred like that."

"Maybe for you Ms. Rutherford," Fairborough said calmly to her. "I parented children once. When my husband and I separated, they became unruly, so I had to give them some tough love. Pained me to do it, but it was for their own good."

Gabrielle had nothing to say to that. Having been between her parents' divorce, she knew all well what a mess it could cause. To this day, she still had bitter feelings about her mother no longer being a part of her life.

"Tell me," Fairborough continued. "Do your servants have issues with each other? It certainly seemed like it."

"We're working on it..." Gabrielle said rather sadly.

"Well, I hope for humanity's sake that those two don't become a detriment. I guess some people just can't let go of the past…"

Mashu was shaken by the recent turn of events. They were supposed to be here to help the team, but this trip wasn't doing what she had hoped. Fou poked his head out from the bag that the Shielder carried under her shoulder and gave a sympathetic look. The other servants were silent, unsure of what to do. Mashu noticed Astolfo taking-off on his own after talking with Gudao, and walked up to the master and asked:

"What was that about, Senpai?"

Gudao turns to face her. Mashu could have sworn that she noticed his face turn to pity at the sight of her. It was gone in an instant when he answered.

"Astolfo has a plan for getting Mordred back, so I let him go after her."

"Seriously?" Mashu asked, sounding skeptical. She liked Astolfo (it was hard for her not to with his endless optimism), but she also knew that the bubbly Rider wasn't exactly the most sensible of servants; having got himself and the others into just as much trouble as he got them out. "Astolfo has a plan?"

"I get why you're concerned Mashu," Gudao said lightheartedly. "Rider is a loose-cannon, but he will help us all out even at great cost to him, and do it again in a heartbeat. I completely trust him to bring our friend back."

Mashu admired Gudao's faith in the Rider. This was after all the same hero who sacrificed his own dignity, donning women's clothes to calm a crazed fellow paladin; if that wasn't a testament to how loyal Astolfo was by nature then Mashu didn't know what was.

"By the way…" Gudao mischievously whispered in confession. "Don't tell Gabby, but I keep giving her Astolfo so that I don't have to deal with him…"

Mashu smiled in amusement. The Rider's energy was also a bit much at times, so she couldn't blame her master for wanting to pass that to others once in a while.

"Wouldn't dream of it… Senpai."

Unknown to all of them, a cloaked figure was watching the group of Chaldeans from a far-away rooftop. The Assassin spoke under her breath to her master.

"Contractor, they're here…"

---

///Later…///

Mordred walked the narrow streets of the city, past the many front-window shops and the bystanders who took occasional glances at her. She was too lost in her thoughts to care about how they saw her. She knew in the back of her mind that they couldn't have been any worse than what that Fairborough woman made her feel. Mordred was seen as a villain, not a hero like her allies. What's worse was how the way that woman talked down at her. It made Mordred feel like she didn't belong with Chaldea; that her presence was a stain on their image. It was like getting rejected by her father all over again.

-Damn that crone! What the hell does she think she knows about me?!-

Mordred never wanted to be the villain. She never wanted to betray the Knights of the Round, bury Camelot, kill her king; her own flesh and blood. All she wanted was to be accepted by her father, not just as a knight but also as family; the kind of loving family that Morgan had withheld from her for her entire life, replaced by pain and resentment.

Mordred unconsciously rubbed her jacketed arm again at the terrible memories. She just couldn't ever go back to that, and hoped her father would understand. The anger that took her over at being rejected made them lose everything they've worked for.

She wished she had someone to talk to, but she left everyone alone after her confrontation with Fairborough. How could she have stayed after having earned the scorn of her allies and her father? Mordred partly regretted ever opening her mouth in the first place. She just couldn't stand that Fairborough hag praising her father, especially when that woman did not know Arturia the way that the Knight of Treachery did.

-Father doesn't deserve that praise! She is vile, heartless, and–! and…-

Despite her anger, Mordred didn't believe half the things she was thinking. It faded as memories of her watching the king from afar, and serving her as her knight appeared in her mind. The king did everything flawlessly. She made swift, impactful decisions, made elaborate strategies, performed great displays of power, and always tried to please the people, even if her intentions were lost on them. Nothing was a shock to the king. No obstacle couldn't be overcome.

The king was perfect…

Inhuman…

Arturia Pendragon didn't have feelings. She was incapable of human emotion. Mordred now felt naïve for ever thinking her father would ever have accepted her as family. It was clear with the way she viewed her, she might never even had a chance at acknowledgement.

-I'm such a fool…-

Mordred was silently scolding herself for being so torn. She wanted to hate Arturia with every fiber of her being, yet her heart wouldn't allow it. Why was she so indecisive on what to feel about her father? Why was she still holding on to such a false hope for acceptance?

-She'll never let me in… I'm nothing but a dirtied child…-

Behind Mordred's bitterness, tears began to form behind her eyes. The Saber forcibly choked them back and casted her head down, not letting those around her see them.

She was a knight…

Knights don't cry.

Mordred walked past more shops, and stopped to look through a bakery window. Her sorrow was soon forgotten as she eyed the delectable assortment of treats on display. The Saber's mouth watered at the sight and fantasy of tasting each one. Mordred had the idea to walk inside and buy some. But there was a glaring problem:

She had no money…

Mordred sighed at the realization and was about to move on when she saw a familiar, pink-haired paladin in the window's reflection.

"See something you like, Mordred?"

Mordred turned to face Astolfo, who had a very cheery smile on his face. As lonely as Mordred was, talking with the ever bubbly Rider was not what she had in mind.

Why couldn't Beansprout be here instead?

"What do you want?" The Saber said to the Rider with slight annoyance.

"The masters were worried about you, so here I am!"

Mordred sighed as she said sarcastically:

"I bet they are. They sent you to fetch me?"

"I offered to, FYI…" Astolfo insisted. The Rider then asked the Saber with genuine concern; "Do you want to talk about what happened with the representative?"

Mordred's angered bubbled up again at the mention of that woman.

"That's none of your business, Birdbrain. Just leave me alone."

Astolfo was slightly taken back by her response, but little did the Saber know that he had a backup-plan for keeping her company. With a grin, he blurted out as Mordred turned and walked away:

"Oh that's a shame… guess I'll be buying these yummy desserts all for myself…"

"Huh?"

Mordred stopped dead in her tracks and looked back at Astolfo, who was smugly showing her a handful of paper money. She raised an eyebrow at the proposition.

-Bribery is it? He'll need to do better than--

(growl)

Mordred's stomach rumbled as soon as she thought of rejecting Astolfo's offer. Her appetite wasn't going to let her walk away from this one, so Mordred sighed in defeat.

-Damn. He got me…-

Astolfo smiled brightly as Mordred walked back towards him. If there was one thing that he had learned in Chaldea, it's that you could always entice a Pendragon with food. He would have to thank Emiya for that info later…

---

///Meanwhile…///

Cu Chulainn went with Gudao and Fairborough to rent Range Rovers for the trip up north. While the representative was talking with the clerk, the Lancer sat and watched the young master, who stood nearby talking on his phone with whom he assumed was Dr. Archaman. The servant listened as Gudao spoke on the line.

"He wants us to go north to Castle Dunscaith… I get that, but he insists that's where we'll find her… Thanks so much Roman… tell Da Vinci I said hi…"

Gudao hung up and went to sit down across from the Lancer. Cu had never had any substantial faith in the Chaldean director. Between his pessimistic nature and skepticism, he didn't strike to the servant as being a real doctor.

"So what did he say?" Cu asked the master.

"He says that Castle Dunscaith isn't anything special. There is nothing besides a ruined fortress that has long been abandoned."

"That's what she wants you to think," Cu states. "I know a secret way into the Land of Shadows. Those Clock Tower bastards don't have the brains needed to find it. This does mean that we'll have to ditch your chaperone at some point." He gestured to Fairborough. "What do you know of this woman Master?"

"Margaery has been with the Association since the end of the Fifth Holy Grail War," Gudao explained. "And is currently one of the members of the High Council, who deliberate on the projects and actions of the Clock Tower and where they should pour resources into. She has advocated for Chaldea since Olga's father founded it. Chaldea wouldn't be what it is now if it weren't for her."

"Quite the track record," Cu remarked. "What's her deal with the Pendragons? She seemed quite… vocal with them."

"Before her promotion, she was running the Clock Tower's archives. She could have had interest in the Dark Ages, as that was roughly when the Mage's Association was founded. Maybe she is well versed in Arthurian lore."

Cu wasn't fully convinced of that. There was a difference between expressing admiration and feigning it. He wasn't sure which of the two Fairborough fell under. On one hand she praised Arturia but then expressed disdain for Mordred. She seemed obviously biased to them.

-Maybe too obvious-, Cu thought. -What a strange woman…-

"I hope you can trust her. Things are problematic as long as she's watching us. We can't risk her letting the Association know about my teacher."

"Speaking of which, just how did you meet Scathach anyway?"

Cu looked around before answering, making sure that the two of them won't be overheard. He spoke discreetly as Gudao leaned in to listen.

"Well, while I was an up-and-coming lad in Ulster's army, I had my eyes set on Emer; King Forgall's daughter, but he would never allow her to marry anyone who had no glory to their name. He sent me to the Isle of Skye, to train with someone called "The Shadow." He was hoping that I would die chasing a rumor. That daft bastard…"

"But it wasn't a rumor, or so I'm assuming?"

"No. Me and a group of other warriors came in contact with one of the Shadow's emissaries, who opened a portal into the Land of Shadows. After a perilous track through that forest, we came face to face with the Shadow himself, or rather her-self."

"What is she like?"

"As to her looks, I won't spoil it for you. That aside, she is very strict and demanding. The trials and exercises that she conjures up would these days be considered punishing. Did I mention she is also brutal?"

"Uh… no?"

"Well she is. Scathach will eat you alive if you say or do something she doesn't at all appreciate."

"Should I be scared?" Gudao asks with uncertainty.

"Damn straight…" Cu said; his voice laced with seriousness. "Scathach is a literal God-slayer, and she never goes easy on things she perceives as threats. I warn you; she won't take kindly to anyone who intrudes on her domain. Remember when I said that servants won't be much of a problem for her? I wasn't joking."

Gudao was suddenly feeling more nervous at the prospect of meeting this woman. In the course of a minute, all his expectations were blown wide open. There was no telling what this person was capable of.

"Do you think she'll be willing to help us? You are making it sound like this is hell we're walking into…"

"I wouldn't worry too much about that, Master," Cu assures the young master. "I have a feeling that training Heroic Spirits will be an interesting opportunity for her. I doubt she will pass that up…"

He trails off. Something was bothering the Lancer and it came clear to the young master. He might have to press Cu about that later…

"Is there any chance that you can explain to her our presence?" Gudao asks. "I'm sure she would listen to one her former students… right?"

"I sure hope so… she wasn't in a good mood with me when I left..."

"What?!" Gudao snapped in shock, much to the Lancer's surprise. "You're telling me this now?!"

"I didn't think it was that important…" Cu confessed quickly.

""Not that important?!"" Gudao exclaimed, careful not to raise his voice too much for others to hear. "You're sending us to meet a God-slayer who can kill the whole team! If she does, then there's no one to stop Solomon! We could lose everything!"

Despite the master's rant, Cu stayed calm and tried to assure him.

"Relax… when we get to the Land of Shadows; just let me do the talking. I'll make sure you guys walk away if it doesn't work out. Alright?"

Gudao buried his face in his hands, trying to calm down. Cu gave the master a moment to collect himself after his tirade to the servant. Gudao took a deep breath and said in apology:

"Right… I'm so sorry Lancer. It's just…"

"Don't worry about it, Master. You just need to stop being so tense. It only shows how much power your enemy has over you."

Gudao rubbed his temples. Cu could see the stress of recent days finally taking their toll on him.

"I can't help it sometimes. I need to be strong for the others; for Gabby and Mashu. Guess I was too quick to assume that this will be our light at the end of the tunnel."

"It will be Master. Bear with me…"

"Mr. Fujimaru, can I have a moment please?" Fairborough called from the front desk, prompting Gudao to leave Cu by himself. The Lancer watched as the he walked away to join the representative.

Since being summoned to Chaldea, Cu got to know the young master well through the various battles they've had in past singularities. He first found Gudao to be calm, considerate, and determined to meet threats head-on. His sister Gabrielle was pretty much the same, save for how she always wore her emotions on her sleeve while Gudao kept things to himself, not giving away any sign of weakness. That tendency to hide his stress was damaging to him, and Cu saw it clearly since returning from America. They were humanity's last hope, and Cu couldn't just standby while the masters were struggling to fight on. They were more than simply his masters. They were allies, partners, friends…

Family.

That was something Cu lacked in his life. He pretty much had to fend for himself since he was able to pick up a weapon. The closest he ever came to having one was fatefully taken away before he even realized it. Cu wanted to help Gudao, not like how he failed Bazett…

And the child soldier from his past…

The young master reminded him of a young warrior from Connacht; someone who Cu was forced to fight and ultimately kill. This boy had fighting skills that rivaled his own, and his dying words have haunted him ever since.

"She never taught me that one…"

It was a personal matter that he kept from the masters, and one that reinforced his reasons for bringing them to see The Shadow. Cu wasn't just here for Chaldea. He had come back for answers, and ones only his former teacher could provide. He needed to know for sure…

-Connla… was that really you?-

---

"Care to tell me why you wanted to bring me along?"

Jekyll was very curious about the bag-carrying servant beside him as they were walking along a street after a provisioning run. The masters had instructed Emiya to buy them food and supplies for the drive up north, and the Assassin had come along at the Archer's insistence. Having known him for a while, Jekyll found the Archer to be a complicated individual; he was usually sarcastic, opinionated, and unconventional when it came to fighting. Yet, he had a caring side that he occasionally showed, especially to one such servant. Said servant could very well be why Emiya wanted his company, especially considering that the Assassin was close to another Saber who happened to be related.

"Why ask questions that you already know the answer the answer to, doctor?" Judging from the look on the Archer's face, Jekyll could tell that the doctor's assumptions were correct, and that his ally knew he would figure it out.

"It's the thought-process of any scientist to get all the basic facts straight before formulating a hypothesis," Jekyll replied. "I expected some ambiguity coming from an archer that uses swords…"

"Then I see you are just as perceptive as I thought. I wanted to ask you about Mordred. I noticed her eavesdropping earlier," Emiya revealed much to Jekyll's surprise.

"And you didn't say anything?"

"I would've if I sensed any hostile intent from her, but alas…" The Archer admitted, yet something didn't add up with the Assassin.

"Hmmm… I would assume Her Highness would have told you all about her already. Did she not?"

"She did. I didn't find Mordred to be all that bad as history makes her out to be, and I want to hear her side of things. She could've hurt Arturia by now if she really wanted, and yet she didn't. How does Mordred feel about her?"

"Mr. Emiya, I-"

"Please... Call me Shirou."

"Shirou…" Jekyll corrected. "I'm afraid I cannot disclose information pertaining to my patients. I am sworn to confidentiality. My relationship with Mordred is strictly professional."

"Looked pretty friendly to me…" Jekyll was met with a smirk from Emiya. The Assassin figured that the Archer had been observing him since this trip has started and knew that Jekyll wasn't being completely honest. As much as the doctor wanted to believe that there was more between him and the Knight of Treachery, he knew it wasn't meant to be, especially with Hyde literally talking over his shoulder and Mordred being oblivious to such feelings. In a sense, Emiya implied that the Assassin had already been breaking his own rules by going out of his way for her.

And he wasn't wrong…

"Well, I'm pretty sure Mordred will use me as a punching-bag if I ever told you. Why do you wish to know about me and Mordred's affiliation anyway? She wouldn't want anyone knowing how she really feels; especially her father, whom you are obviously close to."

Jekyll was watching Emiya's face for a reaction. The Archer made it tough for him to get a good read, but he could have sworn he saw his eyes narrow ever so slightly, not meeting the doctor's own. It was clear that Emiya was still assessing Jekyll as a trustworthy confidant, and was split on giving the doctor such sensitive information. He stayed silent for a while, and Jekyll thought he wouldn't get-

"Arturia has a lot of emotional baggage," Emiya found himself confessing, much to Jekyll's surprise. He didn't expect the shady Archer to start acting so openly. "She is trying to move on from her time in Camelot and both Holy Grail Wars, but has hit a snag with Mordred."

The Archer turns to face Jekyll, who listens intently at the information presented to him.

"You saw earlier that sometimes she doesn't know how to act besides being a servant and king, and it ends up sending the wrong message. I can assure you that Arturia doesn't mean to act that way to her."

"Even so, that would explain why Mordred doesn't listen to her," Jekyll thought out loud to himself." I've never seen them interact outside of battle before."

"There's a reason for that," Emiya states. "Arturia doesn't want things to worsen between them, but we've both seen the result of that inaction."

"Yes. Their failure to communicate and cooperate is hurting Chaldea as a whole. We can't hope to fight powerful threats if we aren't unified. I see why this should've been rectified sooner."

"Then you see the dilemma here Jekyll. We both know Arturia reconnecting with Mordred will be good for both of them as well as for Chaldea. If we're going to make that happen, I need you to tell me what you know."

Jekyll turns to the Archer in surprise at what he was implying.

"Arch- I mean, Shirou. Are you suggesting that we work together?"

"It certainly seems that way, doesn't it?" Emiya affirms with a smirk now that the two servants were on the same page. "I think they both deserve more than what fate gave them, wouldn't you agree?"

"Absolutely," Jekyll agreed. Having Emiya's input would go a long way in repairing the relationship between the two Sabers, yet the Assassin wanted to affirm that the Archer was being serious. This was not after all an easy undertaking, so Jekyll asks:

"By the way, if we are going to form an alliance, then we should agree to full disclosure. Before I let you in on my findings, let me ask you something; how much does Her Majesty mean to you?"

Emiya was caught slightly off-guard. It was an underhanded question, Jekyll would admit but he needed to know if Emiya was truly committed and would not withhold anything important. Emiya thought long and silently, and Jekyll could see that he was not as guarded as before.

In fact, he briefly looked conflicted. That was until Jekyll saw his expression change and soften; a sign of acceptance. Emiya then confessed:

"Everything… she deserves to be happy after all that she has done and sacrificed."

Jekyll was astonished. Despite the Archer's hesitation, his response was sincere. Now he knew for sure that Emiya will fully cooperate with him. Now to pass that trust back…

"Alright, your turn…"

Emiya's question was simple and straight to the point.

"Does Mordred want any trouble with Arturia?"

"No." Jekyll told him. "She just wants acknowledgment as King Arthur's child, but because of how Her Majesty rejected her, Mordred feels that the only way she'll get it is by challenging her right as king. I've even told her that it will not do her much good but she is pretty firm on that. To her, Her Majesty hates Mordred for her lineage."

Emiya took a moment to ponder over Jekyll's revelation to him before telling him:

"But Arturia isn't the same person she was back then. She sees Mordred as the pinnacle of her own failure as king, and believes she won't ever let go of what happened."

"And I am assuming you know this because of your interactions in your Grail War," Jekyll tells Emiya. "I think it would be beneficial to know how your influence impacted Her Majesty."

"It's a very long story, and I'm not sure if I'm the right Emiya to tell it. There was two of me in that war, and I was summoned with both their memories."

Now that was something Jekyll found interesting. It seemed as if he wasn't the only servant grappling with duality.

-Fascinating… Instead of separate personalities occupying the same person, Emiya's personality is an amalgamation of the same individual from different paths of time… maybe--

-Getting any "ideas" doc? Not thinking of getting rid of me, are ya?-

-Silence!-

"Are you alright?"

Jekyll was snapped out of his thoughts by Emiya. He saw the Archer's look of suspicion and silently cursed Hyde for coming to the forefront of his mind.

"I'm fine," Jekyll insisted. "I was just wondering; how does it feel to have lived two different lives?"

Emiya's gazed eased up and he eventually told the doctor, uneasiness laced in his tone;

"Confusing to say the least… The younger me who was Arturia's master bonded with her, and the older me who was a servant who tried to kill us. His memories are far more… grim. I don't think Arturia is ready to know the details of his time."

Jekyll noted the Archer's somber look; an indication of shame. The Assassin theorized that Emiya was keeping something to himself that he doesn't want Arturia finding out, thinking it could hurt her. Jekyll could not help but wonder:

-What could have been so awful in his time that he would keep it a secret from Her Majesty? A question for another day I suppose…-

"I understand Shirou. As much as I would like to do an evaluation on you, this is about Her Majesty. So tell me, how did you two come about?"

Emiya let out a sigh.

"I don't know where to begin…"

"Take all the time you need…"

Emiya takes a long glance at Jekyll, who gave him a look of patience and understanding. It was this openness that Jekyll used countless times with Mordred, and was sure it would encourage Emiya to tell his story to him, even if it took a while. Jekyll wouldn't be the renowned psychologist he was if he never had the patience for the people he treated. Mental health is not an exact science, and therefore has to be taken one step at a time. Sure enough, the Archer thought carefully and smirked when he was ready to tell the good doctor, and Jekyll listened with interest.

"Alright, it sort of started when I stayed after school one night…"

Patience was a virtue indeed…

---

"You should've seen your face when Nero told everyone in Chaldea that you were her distant relative!"

"I am NOT related to her! Honestly, she is nearly as worse as the King of Heroes."

Jeanne laughed as Arturia huffed in denial. They went their own way after Gudao said they could go-off and explore the city. They walked through the rustic streets of the city and found themselves spending time at Edinburgh Castle. They were walking up through the front gates, where a guide was giving a group of people a tour. They came up to a balcony that gave a spectacular view of Edinburgh and stopped to admire the city-scape.

"Wow. This city is beautiful…" Jeanne said. "I wonder if Orléans looks like this now…"

"Yes. It's nothing like Fuyuki. If anything, it's akin to Came-"

Arturia stopped herself. Jeanne turns and sees her staring out with a sad look on her face.

"Something wrong Arty?"

"It's nothing…" Arturia denies, avoiding the empathetic gaze of the Ruler. Jeanne was not at all convinced.

"Obviously it's not," she insisted, wanting the Saber to open up to her. "Come on Arty, you can tell me what's upsetting you."

Arturia stayed silent and cast her head down. Jeanne waited until she was comfortable enough to answer, and it wasn't long when the Saber at last broke the silence, pain evident in her voice.

"When I formed Camelot, I worked tirelessly to create a world where no one had to suffer, nor live in fear of conflict. I wanted to save my people from the famine and incursions plaguing Britain, but in my haste to rule, I alienated myself from my knights and my people, and it had costed me everything. I thought I had come to terms with my past, but I keep seeing flaws with myself every day. They have never been clearer to me until Mordred came to Chaldea."

Arturia at last turned to face her friend, who had only been listening to the Saber thus far.

"Am I an awful person Jeanne?"

"Arty, how could you say that?!" Jeanne asks, shocked by the very notion presented to her. Arturia was not at all surprised by her response and tells her:

"My own knight said I was heartless and could not understand the feelings of others. I cannot speak to Mordred without becoming agitated by her antics. I always have to get her out of trouble and scold her for her actions afterward. She won't listen to me because I wronged her so badly, and now there is no fixing it." Arturia looks back out to the city-scape and says shamefully, "I guess what Lancelot said was true. I have no heart…"

"No it's not, Arturia," Jeanne said suddenly, her voice firm. Arturia looked back at her and saw the fire in her friend's eyes as she continued. "I've known you long enough to know you are more than the king you were. You do have a heart; and a very big one too. You've shown me that whenever you spent time with me, Mashu, or Emiya. You make those around you happy and you accept it in return. For that, I am very thankful to The Lord himself that you are my friend; probably the best I could ever have!"

Arturia was stunned at the sincerity behind Jeanne's words. She couldn't help but ask:

"You mean that?"

"Of course I do!" Jeanne replied passionately. "You're the furthest thing away from being an awful person. You might not be very good with people, but that will come with time. Just let yourself be you and look for the right opportunity. Your plight with Mordred will work out in the end. I have faith that it will!"

The Saber was lost for words. She let a tear escape her eye from Jeanne's speech and wiped it away, eventually giving the Saint a smile. Truly, she thought, Jeanne could lift up even the heaviest of spirits with how much heart she had.

"I am honored by your words Jeanne, and I hope you're right. I guess I am fortunate to know you." Jeanne gave a cheery smile in response. As far as the Ruler was concerned, this was simply what friends were for: picking each other up while one was feeling down. The two servants made their way back to the streets of Edinburgh, passing through the gates of the castle. Arturia eventually said to Jeanne as they walked, "Want to know something Jeanne? I sometimes think you can lead a country better than I ever could. I wish that I was like you Jeanne, and be able to lead with heart, not just with mind."

"Hmm… That's funny…" Jeanne said. "I always wanted to be more like you."

"Why?" Arturia asks in surprise, her response was totally unexpected to the Saber. She listens intently as Jeanne explained, casting her head down slightly in confession.

"When you and the masters came to France, I was summoned with the knowledge that someone was ravaging my homeland. When we came face-to-face with my Alter, and she flew in with a swarm of dragons behind her, I was afraid… For us, the soldiers, the villagers… I used to think with that with God's grace behind me, I could face anything. But seeing my darkened self, so filled with hatred, I felt absolutely helpless." She then glances to Arturia. "But you… you weren't afraid. You stood before her, with your head held high and faced them without hesitation. You inspired your masters and fellow servants to fight, and I found myself filled with renewed faith. I realized that this was how my allies felt when I led them to Orleans; I have never felt such a momentous feeling since I received my vision from God to help save France."

Arturia was amazed. She had no idea that Jeanne had ever looked at her that way.

"There have been many bad rulers throughout history Arty, even these days," Jeanne continued. "It's always the wrong people who hold power, but you aren't one of them. Anybody who says different can take it up with me and Shirou…" Jeanne finished with a smile. Arturia found herself moved by her words once again. The Ruler then added:

"Besides, I don't think I would make for a good king anyway. What does a mere farm-girl like me know about running a kingdom?"

"You started out like me Jeanne, and yet you guided an entire army with nothing but words of faith and liberty. You can give yourself more credit."

"Well, that makes two of us…"

After walking for a little bit, the two servants decided to stop by at a confectionery stand. When they walked up to it, they saw that there was a line-up, and in front was a little girl who looked no older than ten years old trying to buy a candy apple from the strict seller.

"Sorry kid, but you don't have enough to buy that."

"But it's all I have! Please! It's for my dad…" the girl pleaded, but the man behind the stand was waving her off.

"I can't afford to make exceptions. Run along little girl. I've got more customers waiting. Next!"

The servants saw the girl sadly take her money back and leave the stand with her head cast down. They didn't see any adult waiting for her as she continued to walk away. Realizing that the girl was all alone, Arturia looked to Jeanne with concern. The Ruler got the message instantly and smiled.

"Jeanne, we should…"

"I was thinking the same thing."

They quickly purchased their items and caught up to the girl before she strayed out of sight. When they came up to her, Arturia calls out:

"Excuse me, young lady?"

"Hmmm?" The girl turns in confusion and sees the two servants approaching her. "Yes?"

"Pardon us, but we saw you at the stand earlier by yourself," Arturia said to her. "Why aren't you with your parents?"

"I left my dad at the store and came here."

"You've wandered off?" Jeanne asks.

"My dad lost his job at work and I wanted to buy him a treat to cheer him up." The girl admitted, still sad that she couldn't buy it. At hearing this, Arturia knelt down to meet the girl at eye level and offered a sympathetic smile.

"How thoughtful… but he would be very sad if anything happened to you. He is probably worried sick. Wouldn't you agree?"

The girl thought about it and said sadly:

"I… think so…"

"What is your name little one?" Jeanne asked her softly.

"Natalie."

"Nice to meet you Natalie. I am Arturia, and this is Jeanne. We will help you find your father."

The servants walked with Natalie for a while as she took them to where she supposedly last saw her father. In the crowd of people in front of them, they saw a clean-shaven man in a shirt and tie looking around frantically. Said man looked in their direction, and his eyes lit up when he saw Natalie. He started running towards them, and when Natalie spotted him, she starting running towards him smiling.

"Natalie! Thank goodness!"

"Daddy!"

Natalie ran into the arms of her father who gave her a tight, protective hug, and hearts of the two servants warmed-up at the sight. They let the family have their private moment.

"Why did you run-off like that?" Natalie's father said to her. "I was so worried!"

"I'm sorry daddy; I wanted to get you something because you were having a bad day."

Natalie's father broke the hug and knelt down to look at her.

"That's so sweet of you Natalie, but you don't have to go off by yourself just for me. I can replace a job but I can't replace you. I'm glad you're safe…"

"Of course I am! These two helped me find you!"

He looked past Natalie towards the two servants. Arturia and Jeanne waited for his response as he stood up and held Natalie close. The father then expressed his gratitude to them.

"Thank you so much. I'm sorry if we caused you any trouble…"

"It wasn't a problem Monsieur," Jeanne said cheerfully. "Me and Arty were happy to help."

"But daddy," Natalie said to her father, looking directly up at him. "I didn't have enough money to buy you something…"

"You didn't have to sweetie…" Her father assured her. That was when Arturia spoke to him.

"No, but we've got you covered… Jeanne?"

The Saber turns to Jeanne, who nodded at her and reached into her bag. She pulled out a wrapped candy apple, ready to be enjoyed.

"Daddy! That's what I wanted to get for you!" Natalie exclaimed as Jeanne handed it to the girl's father. Arturia then said to her:

"We even got one for you Natalie…"

"Really? Thank you!" Natalie's face lit up as Jeanne pulled another one right out of her bag and handed it to her.

"A sweet prize for a sweet soul," remarked the Ruler. "You raised your daughter right Monsieur."

"Thank you again," The father said surprised. He then asked the servants out of the blue, "Are you two angels?"

Arturia and Jeanne briefly looked at each other surprised. Arturia bashfully avoided the father's gaze while Jeanne humored him.

"What? No, that would just be silly!"

"Oh I'm sorry," the father swiftly apologized. "It's just not every day random strangers go out and do something good for someone. The world can use more people like that…"

"What happened at your job anyway, if you do not mind us asking?" asked Arturia.

"Oh it's just that the CEO laid-off half of the workforce despite a record seasonal profit. Those lazy executives have enough money already… meanwhile some of my old colleagues are struggling to put food on the table…"

Arturia's heart wrenched at hearing the father's situation, and after glancing at Jeanne, she could tell that she too was feeling sorry for him. It sickened the Saber to no end that there were people out there that do nothing except take and exploit others for benefit. As a king, Arturia always held the belief that those in seats of power should give back fairly to people who serve them; a mutual relationship. Hearing such despicable acts of apathy committed by such greedy people makes them comparable to tyrants like Gilgamesh. No one should hold themselves so far above others.

"I'm very sorry to hear that," Arturia said, offering her sympathy. "If it's any helpful, may I suggest starting your own company or work for someone who better appreciates the effort you put in?"

"I'm looking into that," Natalie's father assures her, easing Arturia's worry. "It's not the end of the world just yet. Thank you girls again for bringing Natalie back."

Arturia bows respectfully, putting a hand over her heart.

"It was my honor sir. Jeanne's as well."

"You're welcome Monsieur," Jeanne said to him. She then waved to Natalie as she and her father went on their way. "Au revoir Natalie!"

"Bye Jeanne! Bye Arturia!" Natalie turned and waved back at them as she walked away, holding hands with her father. Arturia looked on as the parent and child as they disappeared from sight. They were a loving family, unlike her and Mordred. Could they ever have a relationship like this? There were too many obstacles before her to even know. Never mind what happened between them leading to Camlann; Arturia knew there wasn't any way for her to be anything close to a conventional parent. She was never even a proper spouse to Guinevere. Mordred was conceived via Morgan's hatred and witchcraft, not out of love. Arturia couldn't imagine what a healthy relationship with her would look like, assuming if reconciling with her was even possible. How would they even begin to clear up everything between them? There was just no way to simply apologize for how things turned out; the resulting damage so destructive…

Mordred hated her. She made that abundantly clear in recent days...

And rightfully so…

"Arty? Are you okay?" Jeanne said quietly. She noticed the Saber staring at the departing family clearly lost in thought and didn't want to startle her. The Saber eventually responded.

"Yes Jeanne. We've brightened up their day, haven't we?"

"Definitely," She agreed, playing along. "They'll be okay. We just need to have faith…"

Arturia slowly nodded in agreement, a reassuring revelation replacing her doubt. They did in fact made a difficult time more bearable for a struggling family. All it took was a simple act of kindness; a decision to just do what felt right. It was something that the King Arthur of old would not have had the foresight to do. If she could help a family get even closer, then maybe not all was lost for her and Mordred.

Arturia Pendragon had come quite a long way, and a little bit of faith could help her go a long ways more…

---

"Oh wow!"

Mashu was marveling at the monuments and structures that she and Gabrielle walked by. The twosome decided to check out Calton Hill with the time they had, and the young Master was enjoying every bit of it with the Shielder. There were a good number of people spending time here too, but they didn't mind the crowd. If anything, it made the atmosphere all the more lively.

"I take it that you are enjoying yourself so far Mashu?" Gabrielle asks her, smiling at the Demi-servant's enthusiasm.

"Yes Gabby, very much!" Mashu says with joy. "This looks even better than the pictures of cities Roman showed me in Chaldea! There are so many people and things to see!"

"If you think Edinburgh and London look cool, we should take you to Tokyo one day…"

"Tokyo… Senpai told me it's a city that spans for miles! Can humanity really build a city so impossibly big?"

"You better believe it."

"Wow… I can't wait to see it Gabby! I want to see the entire world with you and Senpai!"

"Oh yes, that would be great. Especially just so you could get some alone time with Senpai…" Gabrielle teased, resulting in Mashu hiding a blush.

"Gabby, I'm afraid I don't know what you're talking about."

Gabrielle giggled. She found the Shielder's bashfulness indicative of her feelings with her brother. She always noticed during missions that although she and Mashu were great friends; she naturally gravitated towards Gudao when things were really serious. Gabrielle even spotted them sitting intimately close or even holding hands when they thought no one was looking, not to also mention the way she talks about him.

"You can admit it Mashu. I swear you and Gu-dork are so uptight with your feelings. You like him!"

"I- Uh… Of course I like him Gabby. Senpai is kind, thoughtful, brave and-, "Gabrielle was laughing out loud at this point. "What is so funny?"

"You're dancing around the issue! You're attracted to him!"

"I am?!" Mashu was now as red as a tomato. "Th- That's ridiculous!"

"Fou!"

The little furry creature popped out of Mashu's bag and pawed the Demi-servant's cheek, as if to sell her out.

"Oh Fou, not you too…" Mashu gently pushed Fou back into her bag as "punishment" for getting her busted.

"Thank you, Fou…" Gabrielle said before turning back to Mashu. "You think I haven't noticed that you always wander closer to him than me, or how you always tense up whenever he says your name or reaches out to you? Gudao acts the same way. You are more than friends to each other. You can admit it Mashu; it's not like it's a secret to everyone. You and Gudao aren't very good at hiding it..."

Mashu shyly faced away from Gabrielle, eventually letting realization sink in.

"Alright, maybe I am…" The Shielder said bashfully, but then with uncertainty; "But I don't think Senpai feels the same way…"

"What makes you think that?" Gabrielle asked. Sadness seeps into Mashu's voice as she explained:

"I know he hasn't really been himself these past few days, but whenever he looks at me… I swear I see pity in his eyes, like any moment with me seems fleeting. Is there something wrong with me Gabby?"

"No Mashu," Gabrielle answered quickly. "You're perfect. Gudao is just worried for everyone, and he's working harder to not lose the progress we made."

Her face didn't show it, but Gabrielle was feeling guilty for lying to her friend. They had to keep Mashu's condition a secret not just from her, but from the other servants as well. They didn't want the Demi-servant treated any differently than before her fainting episode. After everything that Mashu did for them up until now, she deserved all the happiness and peace of mind that Chaldea could give her.

"But we've been through tough times before Gabby," Mashu said. "And yet Senpai has always been warmer to me. Now he just seems… cold. He wouldn't even tell me if something is wrong when even I can see that it is."

Mashu's face fell when she said with finality:

"He's shutting me out..."

Gabrielle put a hand on Mashu's shoulder, causing her to face the master, and the Shielder was met with a look of assurance.

"Gudao is just stressed, Mashu. He knows we aren't as strong as we need to be and finding this Scathach person to train with is the only option we have left at this point. Gudao doesn't want what happened in London to repeat itself. He is worried about all of us, but also you especially Mashu. I want nothing more than to see my brother happy Mashu, and you give him more than I possibly could. It's clear you feel the same and I hope you two would embrace that fact."

Before it's too late, she didn't add. Mashu mulled over her friend's words, and Gabrielle could see a hint of a smile form on her face. They kept walking until they came up to a crowded street, along which was a souvenir shop. Mashu's face lit up when she saw it and turned to Gabrielle.

"Hey Gabby, look! We can get a postcard over there! Can I go pick one out for Da Vinci?"

"Sure… I'll wait for you here."

Smiling, Gabrielle handed some cash to Mashu for her to take, which she happily did.

"Thanks Gabby!"

The master watched her enter the store, and when she was out of sight, Gabrielle's smile broke. She started to cry, burdened with the knowledge that Mashu had little time left to live and there was nothing she could do to stop it. It was quickly becoming unbearable for her to keep lying to her friend, even if it meant that she would remain blissfully ignorant.

-I can't keep doing this Gudao. She needs to know…-

Yet that would mean losing the joy that was ever present on the Shielder, and deep down, Gabrielle knew that she would never live with herself if she ended up crushing her friend's heart. It still wouldn't change what will happen to her, so keeping her happy and ignorant was the lesser of two evils. Mashu didn't deserve to die with despair, and Gabrielle hoped that her brother and the Shielder would have their moment together soon.

She felt it was the least she could do for making sure Mashu stayed pure and happy until her time comes.

Wiping away her tears, Gabrielle started backing up in to the passing crowd of people on the sidewalk. She ended up bumping into someone who briefly placed his hand on her shoulder to seemingly stop himself from falling.

"Oof! I'm so sorry, I-"Gabrielle turned to apologize to the man, only for her to freeze. "Huh?"

The man kept walking on like nothing happened. Yet that wasn't what Gabrielle found strange about the man. She got a brief glimpse of the man's face before he looked away from her. He wore a hood over his white hair, and Gabrielle thought she saw a burn mark marring his youthful face. The man melded in the crowd so seamlessly that he practically disappeared out of thin air. Gabrielle stood staring in the direction the man went, puzzled.

-Who was that? Have I seen him somewhere before?-

Before she could think about that any further…

"Gabby! I got her the perfect one!" Mashu said cheerfully, appearing right behind Gabrielle and nearly making her jump. She notices the master's startled look and asks,"Ummm, are you alright?"

Gabrielle stared at her before regaining composure

"Oh, I'm fine Mashu. I just got a bit turned around…"

Mashu tilted her head questioningly. It wasn't like her master to be this jumpy.

"You and Senpai space-out too much. Is that a sibling thing?"

Gabrielle giggled at her; any thought of the man who bumped into her was quickly forgotten.

"Don't be ridiculous, Mashu. Anyway, let's see that card…"

---

"You don't think you're one of us?"

Astolfo asked Mordred as they walked to together through a wealthy area of Edinburgh. Having finished their share of sweets a while ago, the Rider had convinced the Saber to explain what had been bothering her. They came up along the campus of a private school when Mordred dropped the bomb on him.

"Yeah," The Saber said, hiding her sadness with an indifferent demeanor. "History remembers me as a villain. Apparently my being in Chaldea paints a bad picture for all of you."

"I fail to see how that could be true…" Astolfo pondered out loud. "I mean, you came from the Throne of Heroes like the rest of us, Mordred. If you ask me, you deserve to be here fighting with us just as much as anyone."

Mordred gave Astolfo a sideways glance. The Rider was always honest with his opinions, even if the logic behind his views were sometimes lost on her.

"And just how do you figure that, Birdbrain?" Mordred asked skeptically. "You heard that Fairborough bitch; I'm not as heroic as the rest of you."

As soon as Mordred looked away, she was startled when Astolfo put her-* (A/N: Correction: his…) -arm around her, pulling the Saber in close much to her embarrassment. The Rider said cheerily:

"Oh come on! Don't listen to that lady. She doesn't know you like I do! The way I see it, you wouldn't be here if something up there didn't find you worthy. Look at me, I'm not the most heroic servant ever; in fact, I'm not even all that strong, yet here I am!"

Astolfo's attempt at lightening the Saber's mood was met with irritation from Mordred, who lifted the Rider's arm off of her shoulder much to his sad disappointment.

"At least you've got some good merit to your name, whereas I ruined a whole kingdom. I haven't done anything to be put in the stupid Throne…"

"Then maybe it didn't record you for the things you've done." Astolfo said contemplatively. Mordred was beginning to think that Astolfo was just pulling words out of his head at this point.

"Then what for?"

"I don't know… A second chance perhaps? You and Arturia are both here in the present. Don't you think that's some kind of sign from fate?"

Mordred huffed at the Rider's assumption. She did not at all believe in something making choices for her.

"That's rich… If the only reason I got summoned was to be reminded of father's disapproval, then fate can go f-"

"What I mean is," Astolfo's voice briefly turned serious, drawing Mordred's undivided attention. The Rider rarely urged anyone to listen to him, and his voice softened as he explained, "Whatever the reason was for your summoning, you probably shouldn't waste this opportunity. Why don't you show that woman that you aren't what history made you?" He then smiled. "If I know you at all, Mordred, deep-down you want to be better than you were before. That's why I hang out with you!"

Mordred was stunned. All this time, she had never realized why the Rider spent time with her. The Saber thought that he simply wanted someone to run his mouth on because he had no friends of his own in Chaldea. But that turned out to be furthest from the truth. Mordred thought it unbelievable that anyone would genuinely try to befriend the Knight of Treachery. Astolfo was giving her the chance to simply be herself and form relationships. No grudges, no assumptions, no ill will to begin with.

"You're screwing with me…" Mordred couldn't help but let that slip out.

"I'm not!" Astolfo insisted. "I'm being honest… I don't care about if you were a villain in your life. You answered the masters' summoning and are helping us save the world! You even go out of your way to help someone like me get out of a jam! No bad-guy would have done the things you did. What you were then matters not compared to what you're trying to be now. You're a hero of Chaldea, and you deserve every chance to show that you want to set things right! I mean, isn't that what you want; for Arturia to accept you for you?"

Mordred was once again lost for words. Astolfo saw right through her and wholeheartedly believed that she was just as much a hero like the rest of Chaldea. She thought no one gave the ever cheery Rider enough credit. He was just as much honest with his feelings as he was an absolute annoyance. Astolfo was one of those people one could simply talk to about almost anything and he wouldn't judge anyone. That could be why Mordred never really minded his company. The Rider was an open book that anyone could get along and connect with. What you saw was exactly what you got with Astolfo.

Well, mostly…

As for what he said about Mordred wanting to be accepted by her father… it got her thinking: was there ever a chance for that to happen without Mordred needing to prove herself? Without her having to pull Caliburn from the stone? The very notion casted a ray of hope in the Saber's heart, but was then quickly squandered. Mordred had already tried reaching out to her king all those centuries ago, and with the fall of Camelot hanging over her, there was no chance of trying that again. Mordred was still the villain in her father's eyes. It would have to be through right of kingship that Arturia will be forced to accept Mordred as heir. No confrontation, no anger, no risk of further heartbreak. Acceptance by title… she was sure this would work.

But the Rider planted the seed of doubt in her mind. Was this the relationship Mordred wanted with Arturia? Would earning kingship fill the void in her heart?

"Cough it up, now!"

"I don't have any lunch money! You took it all yesterday!"

The servants' attention snapped up as they passed an alleyway not far from the school they passed by earlier. They stopped to see a uniformed boy, wearing a backpack and glasses being harassed by a taller, robust young man in identical attire. The bully had short hair and had his sleeves rolled up, and was manhandling the smaller, terrified student, holding him up by the hem of his uniform. What was even worse was that the bully wasn't alone, and he had others with him who cheered him on and restrained the students by his arms, rendering him helpless.

"A down payment… I know you've got more, ingrate." The bully towered over the student. His threatening presence instilled more terror in the boy. The sight was sickening to the two servants, who watched as the scene unfolded.

"I don't! I swear!" The student pleaded as the bully started cracking his knuckles, wearing a sadistic smile on his face. Astolfo said before moving to intervene.

"We have to help him-! "

He was stopped when Mordred put a hand on his arm and gripped it. Astolfo looked back in astonishment as Mordred whispered sternly.

"We can't without exposing ourselves Birdbrain! We'll get Chaldea in trouble!"

"But Mordred-!" The Rider tried to argue, but the Saber wouldn't let him.

"We promised the Masters!"

Astolfo saw the desperate look on Mordred's face. He could tell that the Saber wanted to help and it was paining her to just stand by. They watched on the as the boys released the victimized student and the bully started walking up to him.

"Then I guess we'll have to beat it out of you then. Whatcha say lads?" The crowd of boys cheered as the bully cocked his fist back.

"No! Please don't- Argh!" The student doubled over after the bully punched him in the gut, making collapse. The servants' eyes widen in shock as the boys watched on and laughed while the bully started kicking the student repeatedly. Astolfo looked back at Mordred pleading.

"Mordred please."

Mordred stood frozen. She so much wanted to help to the student, but she couldn't betray the master's wishes by using her strength as a servant against the tormentors. The Saber was torn on what to do. A knight is sworn to obedience, yet what kind of knight allowed innocents to be harmed?

"Had enough yet? Give me the money!" The bullied yelled down at the beaten student, taking a pause from his wrath. The student coughed as he struggled to get up.

"I- don't- have it."

"We'll take what you got on you then." The bully huffed and took the student's bag, dumping the contents on to the pavement.

"My notes!" The student yelled as the bully emptied the rest of the bag. He tried standing up to face the tormentor, some resolve gathered in his voice. "Give those back or… or I'll-!"

The student suddenly shoved back on the ground. Whatever newfound bravery he had was gone as the bully stood up and looked down on him. Mordred trembled with anger as the bully started taunting the poor student, asserting dominance. He then started kicking him again…

"You'll what? You can't do anything wimp. You think you can just study and make a name for yourself out there? You're nothing, and a decade from now, you'll still be nothing!" As Mordred listened, a fire began to burn inside her. The Saber had a choice to make; she shouldn't intervene, yet she couldn't stand by any longer.

Which side of her would win out? Her head or her heart?

"Stay on the ground where you belong!" The bully continued beating his words into the nearly traumatized student. "Nobody will want you, you worthless sack of-! "

"LEAVE HIM ALONE!"

Everyone in the alleyway stopped and turned at the sound of a sudden outburst. They watched as the Knight of Treachery slowly walked toward them menacingly. Astolfo looked on as the bully was unfazed by the young woman approaching him.

"Oh look what we have here lads. This damsel looks lost…" some of the boys whistled at the sight. The bully crossed his arms as he said to Mordred, "Just scram lass, this doesn't concern you."

His cocky demeanor was then shaken when Mordred at last spoke to him, her voice dripping with venom as she glared at him. Her presence was making the other boys anxious.

"Oh it does… you think you're so high and mighty? Picking on a defenseless kid and kicking him while he's down?"

The student tried pushing himself off the ground to get a glimpse of his rescuer. When he saw Mordred, he began to call out to her.

"No! Stay back! They'll-"

"Shut up loser!" The bully silenced him before facing Mordred again. "Why would you care for this nobody anyway? Just go on your merry way, little girl…"

-Uh oh! He just used the G-word!- Astolfo thought as he sensed a spike in mana coming from Mordred, exemplified by her footsteps making the pavement crack. He was now dreading what Mordred planned to do to the bully and hoped that his friend will not hurt him too badly.

-This guy has no idea that he just kicked a hornet's nest…-

"Listen good scum, 'cause I'm only going to warn you ONCE…" Mordred said threateningly, only barely restraining her rage. "Leave this boy alone, or you won't be walking anywhere... EVER."

The other boys started backing away, but the bully didn't share their dread.

"My, you've got a mouth on you. I like that…"

"Listen man, maybe we should-, "one of the boys warned him, but the bully just dismissed it, instead walking toward Mordred.

"No way! I want to have fun with this. By the end of today, I'll make her my b-"

As soon as he tried to touch her, Mordred immediately grabbed the bully by his shirt and effortlessly lifted him off his feet. The bully's egoistical façade was immediately replaced with shock and terror.

"What the-?!"

Everyone was in awe of the Saber's unnatural strength. Astolfo was really concerned now that Mordred was treading the line of using her servant abilities for everyone to see. One boy foolishly tried to jump Mordred, who just forcefully pushed him away with her free hand, sending him crashing into his friends as if they were bowling pins.

"You picked the WRONG day to piss me off!" Mordred was seething as the bully struggled to free himself. "Now tell me; how does it feel to be the weak one?!"

"Mordred…" Astolfo could hear the anguish in his friend's voice. The Saber was making this personal…

"Please! Don't hurt me!" The bully was now beyond terrified as he was rendered powerless by this petite young woman.

"Listen to yourself! A moment ago you were untouchable, and now you're begging for your life! I knew you were nothing but talk, vermin!"

Astolfo saw Mordred's fist clench shut and moved to intervene.

"Mordred! Don't-!"

The Rider came up beside her but stopped when she gave a brief glance at him. Her face that was so terrifying a moment ago slowly softened into a more assuring look, along with the subtlest of a smile. Astolfo looked into Mordred's focused eyes that were silently telling him:

-Relax Birdbrain. I won't lower myself to him…-

Astolfo was now feeling more relieved as Mordred's fist relaxed and she returned to starring the bully down. He now knew that the Saber wasn't going to hurt him.

She was still in control…

"So… you willing to listen this time?" Mordred's voice was noticeably less intimidating than before, but still held an edge. "Get lost and never again bother this boy."

The bully was still quivering with fear, so Astolfo offered him a good piece of advice.

"I'd do what she says if I were you…"

The bully briefly looked at Astolfo and then back to Mordred. He was inclined to agree.

"Alright! I won't bother him!"

"You swear on it?" Mordred asked sternly.

"Y-Y-Yes!" The bully stuttered, but Mordred pretended that she didn't hear him.

"I didn't catch that…"

"YES! I SWEAR!" The bully yelled and Mordred at last released him. The bully fell down on his backside and looked up at Mordred frightened.

"Good… Don't EVER let me see you again…"

The bully quickly got on his feet and ran off, his entourage following immediately after. After taking some deep breaths, Mordred turned her attention to the harassed student, who was being helped back on his feet by Astolfo.

"Hey kid, you alright?"

"Yeah. Thanks so much…" The student said as Astolfo was dusting him off. The Rider happily accepted his gratitude.

"No problem! We saw you were in trouble, so we did what any person should have!"

"Why were they bothering you anyway?" Mordred asked.

"They're loafers who take their frustrations out on the students who are succeeding in class," said the student. "They have even caused some of them to drop out these past months."

"Bastards…they've trashed your stuff." Mordred crouched to pick up the boy's school bag and books. She picked up one and eyed it with mild interest. "What are you studying? It looks pretty complicated…"

"Oh, I'm taking physics, and calculus."

"What for?" Astolfo asked him.

"I want to become a civil engineer; Design structures that will benefit society and reduce our impact on the environment, just like the wind farms."

"Wind farms?" Mordred asked skeptically, raising an eyebrow at a term that was unfamiliar to her.

"You've never seen a wind farm?" The student asked, sounding pretty shocked. He then enthusiastically explained to the servants; "They are these expansive fields with countless tall turbines that spin and convert the wind into usable energy. They provide electricity while emitting nearly no emissions. They can even be built over water."

"That sounds amazing!" Said Astolfo.

"Yes well… some don't agree. There are people who say that they are massive eyesores that mar the landscape. If only they realized how much good they do…"

"I think it's really admirable," Mordred told the student. "You want to use your talents to improve the world."

The student's face fell sadly as he said to her.

"I do, but those bullies said-"

"Don't listen to those jackasses!" Mordred stopped him. "Are they going to do the things that you'll be doing? Let me tell ya, they're gunna be twiddling their thumbs while you'll be out doing the impossible! They say you aren't worth a damn? Let's see if they'll still be laughing at you when your ideas come to life…"

"You think so?" The student asked hopefully as he gave the Saber a look of renewed confidence.

"I know so!" Mordred told him, expressing her utmost belief in him. "From the way you explained that stuff to us, I can tell you're passionate and motivated. I don't see a reason why you won't go places…"

"I totally agree!" Astolfo chimed in. "You're going to be a great visionary someday!"

The student was rendered speechless, nearly blushing from the praise. He eventually snapped out of his surprise and spoke, expressing more gratitude.

"Why, thank you. By the way, who are you two ladies? I'm Brian."

"Oh don't mention it, but I'm not a-," Astolfo began only to be quickly cut off by Mordred, who raised a hand to stop him.

"Shhh, let's not ruin it for him Birdbrain…" The paladin gave her a confused look as Mordred turned to face Brian. She was irritated at being called a lady, but considering what this boy just went through, she let it slide. "Nice to meet you, Brian. The name's Mordred."

"Mordred?" Brian asked. "Like the Knight of Treachery?"

The Saber's face fell. She was taught as a knight that an innocent victim deserved to know the name of their rescuer, but part of her was hoping that Brian wouldn't make that connection.

Smart kid… guess I'm infamous even in these times…

"Yeah. I know what you're thinking, but it's just a coincidence…"

At seeing her solemn reaction, Brian offered the Saber some sympathy.

"I'm sorry. If it's any help, I think that doesn't take away from what you did for me. You're already doing much better with that name than he did."

"Thanks… I guess…" Mordred said sadly as a nearby bell rang. Brian took back his belongings before giving the servants his farewell.

"I have to get back to class. Thanks again!"

Mordred was silent as Astolfo waved at the parting student, who ran down the sidewalk back to the campus.

"You're welcome! Bye!"

He looked back at the Saber, who looked to be lost in thought.

"Mordred, are you alright?" Astolfo asked. "I thought you were really going to mess that guy up…"

The Saber turned to face the Rider.

"I'm fine." She assured him. Mordred had been thinking about what that bully had been saying to Brian, trying to break his spirit. It felt as if he wasn't just talking down to his victim, but to her as well, and Mordred imagined that it was Fairborough telling her that she wasn't a hero, or her father telling her she wasn't worthy to be king.

And it made it even stranger when she at last confronted the bully. She didn't see him, Arturia, or even Fairborough as the person she lashed out at.

For a brief moment… she saw her mother…

And it scared her…

Silence hung between her and the Rider until Mordred said:

"Thanks Astolfo… for keeping me in line..."

Astolfo was stunned for a moment, but then started laughing, much to the Saber's bewilderment.

"Mordred, you just used my name and you thanked me! I've always thought that beneath your tough, brash exterior that you were really a big softy-"

"Watch it, Birdbrain." Mordred stopped him, an embarrassing blush appearing on her face. "Remember who you're talking to. No one is tougher than yours truly…"

Her attempt at repairing her image made Astolfo even more cheerful. Mordred was stunned as the Rider put a hand on her shoulder.

"Now that's the Mordred I know! How about we head back and meet the others? Remind them who the best servant is?"

Mordred felt a smile form on her face, her mood being lifted by Astolfo's encouraging words, and Fairborough's critique of her now pushed away from her mind. She found herself believing the advice she gave to Brian. She should not listen to the empty words of doubters. Who she was in history did not matter in the present. Mordred was here to help save humanity, and she'll show Fairborough that she is no villain, but a hero in the making.

And maybe her father will see that eventually too…

"Yeah," She nodded in response to Astolfo, but it came with a catch…

"Can we stop for more food first?"

---

///Elsewhere…///

Forces were stirring the stillness of the dark forest. A group of Draugr traveled ominously through the forest, searching for escape. They avoided the shadows cast by the trees, for they knew as ferocious as they were, they were ultimately outmatched by this being hunting them.

This predator loved using the shadows. The shadows meant death…

The Draugr didn't want to die again…

An insatiable hunger drove them. They craved human flesh… human souls. They moved quickly towards the edge of the forest and came up to a ghostly barrier; a veil. Beyond that was the realm of the mortals. They could pass through and devour as many souls as their hunger warranted and grow strong, live in death.

The Draugr wandered closer. Nothing seemed to be waiting for them, nor danger they could see. Just a few more steps and they would be free.

One of these fleshy, skeletal soldiers took a careless step and a red symbol appeared on the ground below its foot…

(BANG!)

The creature roared in agony as it suddenly burst into flame. The other's panicked and scattered, making a mad dash for the barrier. A shadowy blur flew in and swept over each of the Draugr with astonishing speed and deadly precision. One by one the beasts fell, sliced apart as the living shadow passed each of them. The corpses disappeared and faded in a blue astral mist, sent back into the afterlife where they belonged. There was only one Draugr left as it crawled toward the barrier, having had its legs sliced off from the initial assault. It tried to reach the veil, desperate to escape. It could practically taste freedom as it reached out with one rotten hand to touch it-

(SHRNNT!)

The Draugr collapsed lifelessly, a red spear embedded into the back of its neck. The beast faded from existence as the shadowed figure walked up to retrieve its deadly weapon. The figure took a brief glance at the veil and walked away with the spear in hand, eventually disappearing in a wisp of black mist.

Nothing escaped this hallowed place. Not on HER watch…