Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Cut into the Mansion, Kiritsugu going over strategies with CT.

"Clone Trooper, what are the strengths of your… commandos." Kiritsugu asked, pausing as he thought of the best word for his servants summons.

Trooper responded, briskly "Delta, Omega, and 99 all are group's of the best soldiers within the GAR, though with their own strengths. 99 excels in unconventional warfare and 'out there' strategies. Using a piece of a LAAT as a shield or shooting down the barrel of an AAT-1 for example. Delta are similar, though not as specialized as 99, better suited to traditional spec-ops tactics. Same with Omega. ARC troopers Fives and Echo operate better with regular clone soldiers and personnel; acting as there name implies Advanced Recon. They would work best with King Artoria sir, while not antisocial, 99 is more abrasive to newer people; especially with the more 'honor focused' beliefs of King Artoria, Omega and Delta are in a similar boat. said Trooper, giving Saber her 'full title and rank.'

Supposed he would be used to responding with full rank or title. Thought Kiritsugu. "The final summons is Gregor, the sole survivor of Foxtrot, and has the same training as Delta and Omega" Trooper finished, while Kiritsugu looked over the map of Fuyuki. Just himself, not his squad? I’ll have to get information on them later. thought Kiritsugu, curious on his X Servant; and the universe he came from.  

"On Delta squad, you said one of the members was a demolitions expert, Scorch right?" Kiritsugu asked, adapting his original plan to a new one. "Yes sir, be it a Thermal detonator or a sequence charger, no one has better training with them." Replied Trooper, giving Kiritsugu idea of where to use his new soldiers.

"Good, when we reach Fuyuki, I want you to summon Scorch so he can help me and Mayia plant explosives at an enemy master home base." Said Kiritsugu, pointing out on the map where the base is located. "Yes sir, should I also bring in other members of Delta if were to be engaged by enemy servants?" Trooper asked, following his commander's orders. "No, I want you to try and stay hidden, make the enemy think Scorch is the Assassin X as long as possible." Kiritsugu responded “Understood Commander." Was the response Trooper gave to Kiritsugu orders.

At least I can rely on one of my servants to follow orders. Kiritsugu thought, packing up his maps and gear. "Will I be accompanying you to Fuyuki or do you want me to remain with lady Irisiviel and King Artoria?" asked Trooper, still standing stock still in front of Kiritsugu.

"You will come with me, so we can fully plan the attack. After that, Scorch will join with Saber and Irisviel. I plan on keeping people think Irisviel is the actual master while we deal with them." Kiritsugu responded, already heading towards the door of the makeshift planning room. “Is that wise sir?" Trooper asked, seemingly doubtful of the full plan. "I understand the idea of using decoy and keeping the enemy guessing, but would it not make sense to use someone else."

In a moment of weakness or perhaps letting his true self out, Kiritsugu sighed and placed his head in his freed hand. "I agree with you Trooper, and I wish I could have found someone else. But, she volunteered and her family are one of the three founding families of the Holy Grail War, their involvement is a given, even through intermediaries." responded Kiritsugu.

Kiri-The Magus Killer composed himself “When we reach Fuyuki, shadow me until we reach the motel, then join me when we enter. There, you will summon Scorch and we will being planning” Kiritsugu said, going over the details.

Trooper, if he still doubted the plan did not say a word of it. He responded with a salute and a “yes sir” then went to get the door. “I shall inform King Artoria and Lady Irisviel of Scorch taking my place as ‘Assassin X’ for the journey.” Trooper said, as he and Kiritsugu left the room. “Good, while Scorch is with them, I want you to accompany Maiya as she watches the enemy masters.”

Chapter Text

As Artoria watched outside a window of the Einzbern castle in Fuyuki, she thought of her partner; Clone Trooper. A man borne artificial, turned into an adult faster than a normal being. The old monarch of England thought, making comparisons between the Clone and her own ‘child.’

I wonder if I am being unfair in the comparison, ‘CT’ does not seem to hold Mordreds own faults. Artoria continued to debate inside her own mind, no side really winning out. “King Artoria, I wish to go over strategies with you.” was surprise response of Trooper, catching Artoria off guard. She quickly caught herself.

”Alright, what were you thinking of?” Artoria asked, turning away from the window to face CT, still in his clean white armor. “After facing against Archer X, I believe I can piece some part of her NP together.” Was the surprising claim of the soldier from the future.

“Do you share a world with her?” Artoria asked, trying to piece together how he knew. “Negative, if she and I were from the same universe, then she would have used blasters instead of slug throwers. Also, the armor was different.” Was the response of Trooper, standing in formation. “From the looks of it, she can summons weapons she has used in her life; ranging from small arms to heavy ordinance. With how she was able to summon and unsummon them, I believe she only have one.” Trooper answered, giving Artoria ideas of how to deal with the Archer in black. Well, that at least gives us something to use against her. Thought Artoria, who returned her full attention to CT.

“I also believe she was the one to disarm the explosives me and Commander Emiya had set up at their headquarters.” Was the response of Trooper, but Artoria seemed hooked on something else. “She was unable to take out most of them, having to take more time with the sequence chargers Scorch set up, but the building still-” Trooper was unable to finish, being interrupted by his partner. 

“Explosives? You would use such cowardly tactics to deal with servants? What the civilians near by or-” Artoria being question, angered by the action of her fellow servant and their master. “Do not worry, we had made sure to evacuate the building and only targeted load barring walls and columns, keeping the damage minimal to anywhere but the building.” Was the calm response of Trooper, seemingly unaffected by the growing anger of Artoria. 

“While I commend you and our ‘master’ for getting innocent people out, that still does not make this right! Where is the honor in blowing up their base, where is the courage in it!” Artoria exclaimed. If Trooper was insulted by this, he did not show it. “My summons are made up of spec ops veterans. Men who fought in shadows and behind enemy line missions; they do not care about honor in charging an enemy without pause.” Was the curt response of the artificial soldier, unphased by Artoria. “We end campaigns as quick as possible to ensure no one else dies in the process.”

Artoria had seemingly calmed down after this, though still mad at him and their shared master. “I do agree with you and your summons for wanting to end this war without bringing innocent people into this, I still cannot condone the action. What is now stopping them from attacking us? Or using people we care about as targets?” Artoria asked. “Nothing, but there were no rules saying they could not before hand either way. If they had not thought of it, then they are not aiming to win this war.” Was the cold response of Clone Trooper, uncaring of Artoria’s concerns.

“Now, we have given them justification for doing so. One which their lancer will agree with.” Was the final point Artoria, giving Trooper pause. “While he may not have liked it, he would have gone along anyway. Lord El-Melloi seemed hellbent on shattering the ‘honor’ of his lancer.” Trooper responded, though he did agree with Artoria. I should bring this up with Commander Emiya and Captain Maiya later.

Suddenly, Irisviel bursted through. “Artoria, Shiny. Someone has breached through the defense; I believe it to be Kayneth and his servants.” Was her reasoning, with both the servants preparing for a fight. 
 

Chapter Text

“Well then, let us turn to the so far silent member of the table. Clone, what is your wish?” was the sneering response of Megatron, seemingly interested in the vessel of a servant. “Yes, what does the tube born mongrel wish for?” Gilgamesh asked, his disgust for Troopers birth evident.

“I wish to undo Order 66.” Trooper responded curtly, not giving the rise that the two hostile servants wished. “The hell is that? We’re not all from your world buckethead.” Kenpachi asked, both interested and bored in this banquet. “I share my compatriot confusion soldier. What is this ‘Order 66?’” Iskandar asked, backing up his partner. “…” Trooper paused, trying his best to answer without giving away a possible idea for how to control him. 

“Sigh, Order 66 was a part of set orders programed within the inhibitor chip of every clone.” Finally responded Trooper, shocking everyone with that detail. The more caring servants showed concern for the soldier, with Gandalf asking “what did this ‘chip’ do to you and your brother's CT?” Trooper to a second to collect himself as he started to remember. “The chip was supposed to limit the aggression of… Us. It was supposed to make us more obedient to our officers, but.” Trooper paused again, seemingly fighting by the little twitches and spasms his arms are doing.

Artoria reached over to her partner, her issues with his tactics pushed to aside for concern of her fellow servant. “What did the chip really do, soldier?” Artoria asked, concern laced throughout her question. “The Clones-us, some of us suffered from nightmares; dreams where we watched as our bodies moved independently and slaughtered our generals. We couldn’t stop our arms raising the blasters, our fingers pulling the triggers.” Was the pained response of CT, seemingly fighting himself as he recalled the memories of his summons.

“That’s what Order 66 is then, the chips forced you to betray your leaders.” Qrow answered, sympathy and sadness shown in his eyes. The table was silent as Soldier calmed down. “Why? Who order you to betray them?” Waver asked, sickened by such an action. His sentiments were shared by Artoria, Diamurid, and the majority of the table; shocked by this tale of tragedy. 

“The Chancellor, he was-is a Sith Lord, the dark counterpart to the Jedi, our generals and commanders. He rewrote the program to make us betray the Jedi, the Republic. They-we couldn’t stop him.” Trooper gave Waver his answer. “The soldiers I summon, some were unaffected by the chip or were able to fight it off. We were still not enough.” Trooper was no longer at the table, he was there; the day the order came down and he trained his blaster on the Jedi. His memories being shadowed by fake versions, stories of Jedi bravery changed to the uncaring generals who sent his brothers to die.

 Shiny, you still with us? Kiritsugu mentally asked, his concern being shown to his servant. Yes Commander Kiritsugu; just resurfacing bad memories sir. Trooper shook his head as he calmed down, returning to the table and his fellow servants. He looked around and sought their emotions.

He saw the concerned and saddened looks of his teammate and their shared ‘master’ Artoria and Irisviel. Artoria and him were not as close as Iskandar and Qrow, but basic decency compelled her to care for her fellow person. Irisviel looked ready to cry, grief written across her face. He looked over and similar looks on Iskandar, Qrow, and Waver. Kenpachi was harder to read, but he looked more angry than sad. The lone Lancer present had a distant look in his eyes, though concern and sympathy were there as well. Kariya had horror written across his face.

Only Megatron and Gilgamesh were the two seemingly unphased by Troopers story. Megatron looked ready to laugh at Troopers story, finding it fitting for an unnaturally born human to be forced into betrayal; while Gilgamesh was neutral. Trooper could not tell if this was boredom or something else.

“Forcing soldiers to betray their generals, using mind control no less. Such cowardice.” Iskandar said, angered by this. “Have the balls to face them yourself, at least. You’re their enemy, fight them head on.” Kenpachi added, sharing his sentiments on the Chancellor.

Trooper takes a breath as he tries to calm down. “Memories of the Jedi were overwritten. Where once a Jedi general would risk their own life to save a squad of clones, or lead from the front alongside my brothers. Now stood the uncaring cowards who sent my brothers to die; who didn’t care about us. We were flesh droids, disposable, replaceable.” Trooper strained to talk as his memories fought each other over what was true. “We-I have to fight to remember which are real; especially now. The rewrite has become apart of us. Our legend.” 

Horror swept most of the servants present. For something so horrid to be made a part of them. To have to fight their own memories as they distinguish what truly happened. It scared them, even Megatron lost his cruel smirk. The feeling of hatred directed towards “the chancellor” only grew after that.

“And to make sure we followed orders, in case the memory rewrite did not get every memory or just failed; the darjetii hut'uun had a code phrase that forced us to obey. Good Soldiers Follow Orders.”

Chapter Text

“The new base is here.” Kiritsugu pointed on the map, inside a residential area. He had called this meeting to talk about moving to his old home as a way to throw off the other servants, with everyone agreeing with the plan. “Commander Kiritsugu, while we all are here, I had an idea I wish to run by you and everyone present.” Trooper said, looking up from the map on the table.  “So then Shiny, what is it.” Asked Kiritsugu, standing next to Maiya and Irisviel.

“During the banquet, most of you all heard me speaking Mando’a, the language of our gene donor’s people, Mandalorians. I had the idea of teaching it to you all as a way to help during battle; so even if we have to communicate verbally, no one knows what our plan is.” Said Trooper, laying out his idea for the table. And judging by the emotions, they were interested.

Kiritsugu was nodding along with Trooper’s plan, seeing the benefits of knowing a language no one else knew; and had a small smile on his face seeing the excited look on Irisviel face at the idea of learning a new language. Maiya also had a small smile on her face, though less on learning about a new language and more at spending time with Trooper. They had gotten close after she learned about his story, especially the part of him and his brothers being child soldier, rapidly aged to fight in war. They bonded over their trauma and will to ensure no one else had to ever go through it again.

and Artoria, while not happy about underhanded tactics, does see the use for code words and the tactics available that came with them as well. “I am in agreement with Trooper on this one, master. I think it would be a great asset for us.” Artoria responded, turning towards their master; who quietly nodded to Artoria. “Good, I am of the same mind, Saber. How quickly can you teach us Shiny?” Kiritsugu asked, turning his head over to the foreign soldier.

“Given the time we have, I will not be able to make you all fluent.” Was the glib response of Trooper, mirth in his voice. “But I should be able to teach enough words and phrases so we can hold small conversations.” He was happy at the idea of bring the culture he and his brother hooked onto to this world, as a way to always be connected, even if he would never be summoned here again.

“And rangir if your luck holds, you might summon a Mando in the next war if we don’t win.” 

Chapter Text

As Iskandar appear in a strange room, he starts to greet his new master who stands in front of him. “Oh, you have done well to summon me! Iskandar, King of Conqu-"

“Hey Kandy bar.” Iskandar cut to see an old friend, Qrow. Leaning against the entrance, he sees him smiling and responds in kind. “HAHAHA, and it's great to see again Qrow!” Iskandar shouted, grateful to see him again after that strange Grail War. "Shall we continue where we last left off, old friend?” asked Iskandar, seemingly ignoring his master. “Not yet, big boy. First let Rits get you set up and give the tour. Will give me time to tell pipsqueak" replied Qrow, walking away.

"Pip- HAHAHA Waver has finally grown to a man, and to be summoned; truly how strong he must have become. Come Master, show me around, so I can see my new allies!" said Iskandar, grabbing Ritsuka by the arm as he walks out the room. 

What a start, well better than previous summoning thought Ritsuka, now no long being pulled by Iskandar. So begins the King of Conquerers time in the service of the last master of Humanity. 

Later on

As Iskandar got accustomed to Chaldea, he began seeing old friends and rivals. It warmed his heart seeing Velvet become such a fine young man, even keeping Iskandar’s Admirable Tactics shirt. He even followed Iskandar’s example, in an unconventional manner but still, by taking the title of El-Melloi for himself. I do wish I could have been with him during his journeys. Well, I suppose this version of me Iskandr thought, remembering that Velvet summoned his younger self during his adventures.

“So, there I was surrounded on all sides; after losing my sword and boomerang. Holding on for dear life with Toph. Legions of Fire Nation soldiers moving in.” Sokka said, recounting his valiant tale of heroism against the fire nation. And off to the side was Suki, his girlfriend and resident heroic assassin, rolling her eyes in a loving way at Sokka retelling. “BUT THEN, my awesome and beautiful girlfriend comes in and saves the day!” He finished, gesturing to Suki, who says “well, that part is true.” moving up to kiss him. “So, how did you get your sword back?” asked Laois, joining near the end of Sokka’s tale.

“Well, I never-” Sokka did not get to finish, as he was interrupted by Ritsuka, via speaker in the cafeteria. The resident (and only remaining) master said “Can Lord El-Melloi the Second, Qrow Branwen, and Iskandar join me in the Summoning room.” The three got up from their respective spots, Qrow from the unofficially dubbed ‘Remnant table’, El-Melloi leaving the cafeteria line, and Iskandar from the table Sokka was at. 

Iskandar wonders why Ritsuka asked for him, Velvet and Qrow to join them. “So what you need Rits?" asked Qrow, asking the question him and Velvet thought.

Perhaps they are expecting a rather volatile servant? Iskandar wondered, remembering stories of how troublesome that Angron fellow was when he was first summoned. "Well, it took some a lot of Saints Quartz’s but I think I got him this time." Him? The King of all Conquerors thought, wondering who would he could mean. Ritsuka does not mean- Iskandar thought before hearing Velvet. 

"Wait, you don't mean-" Velvet said, before being cut off by Ritsuka, smiling "I do indeed Lord El-Melloi." As a flash goes about the room and a servants lands, the trio are greeted by a familiar scared face with power eating Eye patch. "Kenpachi, Berserker or whatever. I'm here to fight…" he trails off, as he finally sees who is the room. As he does, a grin breaks across his face and exclaims "Well damn, looks like I can't escape you guys!"

"And it's good fortune to see you as well, Kenpachi!" Iskandar yelled, with Qrow breaking out in a smile and Waver looking like he wants to run over and hug the hulking Mass of a servant. All the while Ritsuka, final mage and master of humanity, looked and smiled at the scene; happy to reunite the famous squad.

Chapter Text

"Well Kariya, I guess you got lucky summoning me" said Caster X, as he tried his best to tend to Kariya. What are the chances I summoned an actual medic? Kariya thought, watching as Hawkeye worked to try and deal with the worst of crest worms work. While the summoning could have gone better, they were able to stop any actual fighting between the two; though Hawkeye looked like he wanted put Zouken under his surgery blade. And I do not blame him for wanting to try. Kariya thought, feeling some level of hateful joy at the idea of Zouken being put a microscope to study what happens when you live far too long. 

"Listen, I get this whole secrecy nonsense you wiz- magus believe, stupid it may be, but you need to go to a hospital; I've been helping around at a small place, Shinto general." Hawkeye said, bringing up an already old debate, since finding out what Kariya has to do to support Hawkeye and Lancelot in the war. “And I doubt the medical supplies I can create would be of any actual help for you.”

“And how eugh do you or I explain the wounds to them Pierce? 'Hi, I just so happen have my insides and nervous system being eaten alive by worms, do you have a way to help?'." Kariya sarcastically responded, looking up in pain with his one good eye at his Caster. While he would love nothing more to get these damn things out of him and be done with Zouken and the rest of the Magus shit, he has to keep in. For Sakura. Kariya thought, only joining after finding out what happened to the girl he considers his niece. 

Hawkeye hung his head, in shame because he can't think of any better way himself. "Listen, if we find a spot where I can set up, I can use my Phantasm to bring in my MASH, it can at least buy you a bit longer than what you already have" Hawkeye said, running low on options outside of continuing to run makeshift surgery on what he can steal, find, and collect with what little funds Kariya had. 

"Alright, we can do that, have any spot necessary other than a leyline?" asked Kariya, using Hawkeye out stretched hand to help himself up. "Actually," Hawkeye smiled a smile that promised headache and humor for Kariya and anyone involved, "I do not need a leyline, luck of being from the 1950s and having terrible magic stat. I just need to be close to either a hospital or a bar, and as luck would have it, the place I have been doing pro bono surgery for is right next to a nice little bar." Hawkeye responded, giving Kariya a map he made while 'shopping' for medical supplies. Huh, maybe my luck isn't that bad after all. Kariya thought, as his other servant and Hawkeye’s teammate looked on top of a building, overlooking the foreign city. 

Arrrrrthur. 

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 "Let me get this straight, you idiots got time travel abilities and: brought a bunch of famous generals to the future, 'conquered' Camelot and renamed it to what I shall not say with the actual Round Table Knights and King Fucking Arthur around, and had to deal with actual gods." Tex replied to the Reds and Blues, finally being summoned to Chaldea. Simmons and Grif were a duo, like Anne Bonny and Mary Read. Caboose was a Berserker, same with Sarge, Church(Epsilon) was a caster, Tucker a Saber, Donut a assassin, Doc an alter ego, and Lopez a rider. Wash and Carolina were getting food, with Carolina talking with York during it.

 "Yeah, what was up with that anyway? I finally die and you idiots just immediately fall into even dumber shit." was the response from Church, who died on Chorus. Can't believe I'll say it, but I'm actually proud of these morons. Tex thought happily, remembering the story of them working together to take down Felix and the pirates. "Yeah, it was weird. Though we were still kick fucking ass." Tucker responded, after eating his sandwich.

 "Yeah, I even got to say goodbye to you as well. But, that now we're here, I can take back my Goodbye. YAY!" Caboose exclaimed, having the same realization he had about two days ago. Church just shook his head in happy exasperation, "yeah buddy, you don't have to say goodbye anymore." Church said with a lazy smile.

 "Now, enough of this recollection nonsense, how have you boys been meeting with our newest allies. I for one have never been more excited, outside of planning to murder Grif-" "Up yours Sarge" "-can it private-" "Still a Sargent-" "and I am a Colonel in the Chorus army so shut your trap, that's an order." which was the final say in an old argument that's lost it old hateful heat and is now just a ribbing. "As I was saying, how have y'all gotten along with our fellow heroic spirits."

 "Ooh, I love hanging out with Astolfo, he has given so many good ideas." was the excited reply of Donut, shocking no one he had gotten along with the… eccentric knight of Charlemagne. 

 <Ignoring the pink idiot, I have been working alongside people who actually know what I am saying and give respect, it is nice.> Lopez said, having been quiet during the story. <Me and Professor Babbage plan on seeing how we can improve the systems around Chaldea with Tesla. Plus now I don’t have to hang around you idiots as much.>

 "How come we can now understand any language, yet we still have no god damn idea what Lopez is saying?" Simmons asked, looking over at the old robot. "Like I said back at the temple, 'something's are just hard wired.'" was the somewhat serious answer of Tucker, going back to eating.

 Tex looks up to see Diarmuid, having left the line with food. "Hey, Dia!" Tex yelled, pointing out a spot at the table where he can sit. Diarmuid was hesitant, not only because of him and Texas history from the 4th, but also his own shame at being unable to recognize that his power affected her during their brief partnership. Deciding that it was time to reconcile with the agent, Diarmuid went to sit at the table.

 "Hello, agent Texas. It has been a while." was the awkward response of Diarmuid, having no idea what to actually say. "Christ man, I know you two ended worse than Tex and Church; but that was bad." Tucker said, looking up at the spearman.

 "Up yours Tucker." was the immediate response of both Tex and Church, flipping off the resident Saber. Raising his hands in mock surrender, Tucker went back to eating. "No, no; Tucker is right, that was a terrible way to start." Diarmuid said. "Agent Texas, I would like it apologize for missing how my Love Spot affected you during the war we served in, I did not know how far it pushed you until it was too late." "It's fine, I should have mentioned it in the first place, at least before everything went to hell." Tex responded, patting Diarmuid on the shoulder, trying to reassure the less famous Irish spearman. "No, it wasn't right for me to not see how it was affecting you, much like lady Sophia. Or the growing tensions between you and lord Kayneth, if I had known; then maybe-"

 "Then they wouldn't have listed to you anyway. Our odds were never good Dia, between my curse at the time and hostility Sophia had from the love spot toward any women who even looked at you, we were doomed." was the sardonic ad somber response of Texas, who knew their chances of winning were slim.

 "Even then, the grail was corrupted, and I doubt either us could have taken it out." Tex finished, giving Diarnuid some level of closure, seeing Tex act more easily around the 'Reds and Blues' then other servants or even her fellow agents. "Yes, you are probably right. Though, honor does demand me to seek forgiveness." Diarmuid responded, still hanging out to the ideal of chivalry. Texas just snook her head, giving up trying to convince the Irish spearman "Alright, I accept your apology. Now, let me introduce my lovable idiots: Church, Tucker, Caboose, Sarge, Donut, Simmons and Grif, and Lopez." Tex said, going across the table. A smattering of "hellos and hi" great Diarnuid, who returns the greeting "It is nice to meet you all." he said, giving a smile.

"Alright, enough of the introduction shit. Hey Diarmuid, you want to hear the story of the time Tex ran away from an alien?" Church asked with a shit eating grin. "Last I checked, your incorporeal ass was running first." was Texas immediate reply, giving Church a mock glare. They would both turn to Tucker who said "Both you pussies were out of the building at the same time." Church was the first to reply to his teammate, looking more amused then annoyed "Now I know you are not saying anything mister 'victory lap.'"

 As the group descend into friendly bickering, Diarmuid started to realize What have I gotten myself into? he thought happily, realizing how easy it was for Tex to connect with them.

Chapter Text

As Gilgamesh descended from the heavens, overlooking the mongrels of his garden and the flies from other worlds, he began his ego stroking speech. "In one night alone, two blustering fools call themselves Kings, and a mad beast claims to be capable of defeating all Serva-"

Only, he was interrupted by something. As he stopped speaking because he, and everyone one in the docks heard, what sounded like music? Only one person, a servant of the bow from another world, knew exactly what that stupid song was. "Oh son of a bitch" was Agent Texas only response as two of her idiots came flying out of nowhere; hitting the light pole Gilgamesh was standing on, knocking him off it and on his ass.

As everyone looked on to see two colorful soldiers, one dressed in Maroon and another in Orange wearing similar armor to the Tex, came crashing into the fight. The car the two were riding in came to a stop near the cargo crates. The orange one, more on the heavier set side and driving the vehicle, while the maroon one was on the chain gun in the back and looked thin in comparison. All the while, arguing between themselves.

"See, I told I would get us here!" "You hit our teammate, who has fucking portals that shoot NPs, while giving up the element of secrecy!" "Simmons, when have we ever done something close to secrecy?" "That's not the point Grif, we are only supposed to watch this go down and now everyone knows we survived! Right Tex-Tex? What are you doing here." The maroon- Simmons seemingly now noticing the old Freelance agent in the crowd of onlookers in what can only be described as a bickering old married couple like argument.

"Simmons, what the fuck- Oh shit Tex!" Was the response of Grif, who looked over and saw the agent in question. Tex could not respond, dumbfounded that three people from their world were summoned to the grail war. "How-how are you idiots here? Is one of the NP of the other?" Asked Tex, no longer caring about the previous fight with Assassin X, now only caring about the familiar idiots in front of her.

"Sadly no" said Simmons with Grif finishing for him "We're a package deal when summoned." Even more confused by this info, the master of the two began berating the two, judging by how they became quite yet still making hand gestures.

All the while, Gilgamesh is still on his ass. Pissed. "You worthless, filthy, below even the weakest creatures, mongrels. I no longer care for the alliance between our masters. Die" was the cold but violently angry response of the King of Heroes, summoning multiple portals.

“Oh shit.” Was the benign response of Grif as he hit the gas on their Warthog. Simmons also responded to the threat by opening fire on the irate King of Hero’s. As the chaingun roared, Texas partner went up to ask her about the duo. 

“Texas, are they from your world?” Diamruid asked, confused on the familiarity that his partner and the two talked. “What gave it away, the way they knew my name or the armor?” Tex asked sarcastically, feeling a familiar sense of annoyance and relief from seeing those two. “Yes, they’re from my world Dia. How they’re also here, I have no idea; they weren’t exactly the best.” Tex about to finish her talk until she was interrupted as multiple portals started showering near and around the two as they drove trying to avoid being hit. 

You were going to share this when? Asked Kayneth annoyed at how so far this night and war has been a disaster. First he summoned Archer X, next he found out that Waver stole his original two, then only to be threatened by two ‘X Servants’ and insulted by his original servant. Now, Archer X lost her element of surprise, with those two knowing who she is. Preferably never, seeing as it did not matter until now. How the fuck was I supposed to guess that another servant from my universe would also be summoned jackass. Tex responded making her way over to help two of her idiots. 

Chapter Text

As Waver heads to sleep, he dreams the lives of his servants. The glorious conquests and campaigns of Iskandr, the path Kenpachi took to become stronger and the opponents he faced. But, he started to feel cold but yet-

The first dawn of light in your universe brings pain.

All over his skin it felt like he was being stabbed, over and over. Tiny needles to the biggest swords, from his head to the toes; he felt pain. 

The light burns you. It will always burn you. Part of you will always lie upon black glass sand beside a lake of fire while flames chew at your flesh.

He remembers a planet of lava, of pain. Of hate. He remembers the unbearable heat on his raw skin, his burned skin. He saw his robotic arm try in vain to pull him far from the lava river, only causing more pain. It felt like hell has come and swallowed him. He sees the world through baleful red, forced to see through lens and feel through receptors. He can't take it, he begs it to stop. He wants it to end.

You can hear yourself breathing. It comes hard, and harsh, and it scrapes nerves already raw, but you cannot stop it. You can never stop it. You cannot even slow it down.

He hears himself breathe but it sounds wrong, it's loud and wrong. Mechanical and evil. The longer he breathes, the more it scratches at his destroyed throat, the burned over remains of ears. It curses him to alway feel pain, even when the skin heals and scars over. He will always feel the pain. He can't control it, he can't make it go away.

You don't even have lungs anymore.

He begs to die, he wants to scream, to cry, to rage; to end this existence, for it all to end. But he knows it won't.

Mechanisms hardwired into your chest breathe for you. They will pump oxygen into your bloodstream forever.

Chapter Text

“AAAAAAAH!” Saber yelled, swinging Excalibur hard down onto her fellow Saber, the black figure raising his red blade to match the famed sword of England. 

What followed was a battle of wills, the figure hobbled by a suit designed to weaken him against the chosen king of Camelot, and no ground of Vader was lost. He stood, a terrifying figure of black, his face covered and Artoria saw her own reflection in the lens where Vaders eyes were. 

Suddenly, Artoria felt a shadow closing behind her, turning to see a metal container sailing towards her. She effortlessly spun on her right foot, taking away Excalibur from clash, to cut the container in half. As the legendary blade cut through the container, she barely dodged the slash of Vader’s lightsaber; jumping back to Irisviel and Kakashi. She launched herself back at Vader, swinging Excalibur from the side, only for Vader to catch the blade with the force. 

As Artoria struggled to free her sword from the hold of the force, in came in Lancer “SABER X!” Trying to strike down the foreign Saber for nearly killing his lord, only for the Servant of the Sword grab The Irish spearman through the force and throw him into Archer X. As the spearman tried to pick himself and his Archer partner up, he felt that same presence wrap around his throat. “It would be wise to surrender, Master of Lancer and Archer X.” Said the servant, his voice twisted by the helmet he wears. 

“Growl. Lancer and Archer X, we must retreat.  By my command seal, I order both of you to deform and return back to our base.” Kayneth said reluctantly, angered and fearful of the X servant his worthless student summoned. “This is not over Waver Velvet.” Kayneth spat the name as though it was a curse. 

Chapter Text

As Diarmuid began to walk around his Lord’s base for the Holy Grail War, he saw his partner, a new mechanic added for the 4th War, he began to walk over and something he heard when they were summoned yesterday.

“Sir Chief, if I may ask, you said you’re from the future?” Asked Diarmuid to his partner. Still odd to think that fourteen servants will be fighting in this war. he thought, as his foreign(?) comrade responded.

“Yes, but if it this worlds future I am not sure. To my knowledge there was never a ‘Mage Association’ nor any magic.” was the answer to the servant of the lance. As they were speaking, Diarmuid saw his masters wife to be walking in on their conversation. One of Master Chiefs NP followed this up “And unless they really thinking hiding would help them, they never helped fight the Covenant.” Cortana said, not appearing like she had during their summoning. 

The Summoning

“I ask you, are you my master/are you who I serve?” asked both Archer X and Lancer, shocking both the master, Kayneth El-Melloi Archibald, and each other; though if the futuristic super soldier was he did not show it. He raised his weapon against the Lancer who responded in kind. “Who are you?” was the simple question, backed by the threat of violence towards this servant. 

For how could he not be a heroic spirit. Wearing drab green armor from head to toe, his face obscured by a helmet with a golden visor, his being emanated a warrior prowess. The way he carried himself and stood at the ready. This servant was a soldier, that Diamruid knew. 

“We could ask you the same thing, Lancer.” an unknown voice said, surprising both Diamruid and his master; though the Lancer hid it well. Suddenly, Diarmuid was informed by the uniqueness of this grail war, and by the looks of it, so was his partner. “Huh, well that’s new.” seemingly this night was to be weird, when a blue naked woman appeared hovering above the shoulder of the Green Archer. 

“Well, let’s get introductions out the way, my name is Cortana and this lumbering luck charm is John. Nice to meet you both.” the newly introduced Cortana said, turning to look at Diarmuid and their master.

“What do you mean. Were the Covenant some enemy you fought.” Asked Sola-Ui, having joined the two servants when she woke up. She seemed strangely close to Diarmuid, though the Lancer seemed to not notice. I should bring this up later with him. Thought Chief, as Cortana went onto explain what the Covenant was. 

“The Covenant was an alien theocratic empire that worshipped the Forerunners. They driven to ‘ascend’ like their supposed gods did using a set of devices we called Halo.” As Cortana began to talk about humanity’s future enemy, Diarmuid and Sophia became engrossed in the telling.

Chapter Text

As Gilgamesh finally caught his footing, he glared down to the crowd of both foreign and native servants. His disdain directed to those who laughed at his, slight hiccup during his display of dominance. 

It was during this, Gilgamesh’s fellow servant of the bow seemed distracted, turning her eyes toward a certain part of the docks; away from the fight and past the Eizenbern. “Archer X, what is it.” asked Diarmuid, following his partners vision to a warehouse. “Someone or something is in there, the presence feels familiar.” 

“What are you two mongrels talking about?” Gilgamesh pointedly asked, further angered at the lack of attention they were showing. If Tex was paying attention to what him, she didn’t show it. “Hey blondie, spiky hair; move your master.” Tex said two the servants she and Lancer were fighting barely a few minutes ago. Her voice ladened with tension as that familiar presence grew and grew. “What/What are you planning Archer X?” both Kakashi and Artoria asked the agent. “I’m telling you two, move her now.” Tex had grown irritated at the two, not listening to her. What are you doing Archer X? Kayneth asked, annoyed by his X servant. 

There is something in that warehouse, behind the White haired chick. Tex said mentally back towards Kayneth, as she started moving towards the building. “Te-Archer wait-” whatever Diarmuid was about to say was halted as the metal garage door on the warehouse came flying off towards the crowd. Kakashi, closer to Irisviel, grabbed and pulled her out of the way, as the servants here either ducked or moved out of the flying metal wall came soaring through. 

Music to play here 

As the servant, and masters close by, looked towards the warehouse; a lone figure emerged from it. Clad in white futuristic armor on top of a black bodysuit, his helmet looked alien; spherical and massive, giving the servant an inhuman look.

They knew this being was a servant, even if it being human was an unknown, the presence and strength alone ensured that. The thing in white armor let out a guttural noise, and in that moment. Texas was afraid. 

Afraid of what she knew the servant was, afraid of what she remembered of the last time they fought, when the Meta grabbed her by the throat and jabbed the reconfigured prison unit to capture her. Then, she opened fire. 

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

It's October at Chaldea.
While that would usually mean some of the staff would be sent home, October even in the modern era sees the walls of the dead and living thin, that was no longer viable. While Ritsuka was closing in on Solomon, the world outside of Chaldea was still gone and the remaining staff had no homes to go to. It seemed as though Halloween would pass by Chaldea, like so many other times since the destruction of the world in 2015.

But, something happened that set this Halloween apart, a skeleton king of pumpkins had been summoned by the FATE system, and with him; he would bring his Town of Halloween to Chaldea.

Having recruited the younger servants and more fun loving, Jack Skellington had them setup decorations in secret, go to North America through ray shift and get pumpkins, heroic spirits designed now costumes for themselves and fellow servants; his royal majesty was even able to acquire the help of the kitchen staff to make treats. He even brought in some old friends to help fully furbish the final bastion of humanity with details of his domain.

Ritsuka had a late wake up today, the grind for ascension materials wearer them down something fierce. As the final master of humanity got out of bed, they noticed something odd about their room.

Why is there a wrought iron fence and gate surrounding my door? Ritsuka thought, as they began to dress in their Chaldea uniform. The confusion and decorations continued once they stepped outside, seeing along the floors were pumpkins that were carved. "Jack o'lanterns? Who got this many pumpkins, and how?" They said out loud, making their way down the hall to Dr. Roman room. As they walked, they saw more and more decorations; some were ghosts that looked a bit too life like, a dead tree with skeletons hanging from it, some tombstones dotting here and there.

As Rtsuka knocked on Romans door, they heard stuff falling over and Roman exclaiming in shock. As the door opened, Ritsuka was met with Roman, wearing a Cu Cuhlainn costume. Fake Gae Bolg spear and everything. "I know I know I'm late, but you try and wear a wig with my hai- Ritsuka? What are you doing here?" Roman asked, going from annoyed to an odd mix of shock and panic. "I came to see if you know why they're decorations around Chaldea?" Ritsuka said, crossing their arms as Roman started to panic more.
"Well, you see Ritsu-" Roman was interrupted again, through this time by music coming over the PA system. It got louder and Ritsuka turned to listen.

Boys and girls of every age
Wouldn't you like to see something strange?
Come with us and you will see
This, our town of Halloween

"Oh crap it starting!" Roman exclaimed, rushing back inside his room to place on the blue wig to finish his costume, all the while Ritsuka stayed in the hallway listening to the music.

This is Halloween, this is Halloween
Pumpkins scream in the dead of night
This is Halloween, everybody make a scene
Trick or treat 'til the neighbors gonna die of fright
It's our town, everybody scream
In this town of Halloween

Roman came speeding out of his room and nearly fell on top of Ritsuka in the process. Stopping himself, Roman pulled the last mage and master with him as Roman started running down the hall. "Roman what's going on!?" Ritsuka yelled, confused and annoyed at not getting any answers. "It will be easier to show you!" Roman responded back, returning his attention to making it in time.
As the two rounded a corner, they were met with a line of servants and Chaldea staff all dressed up. Gareth was wearing a costume of Mordred's armor, he spotted Kid Gilgamesh wearing what looked like a child version of caster Gil's outfit, Ishtar was wearing a costume of Pravti outfit and Pravti was wearing a costume of Ishtar's. Some of the staff wore generic Halloween costumes while others dressed up as servants. All the while singing along to the song over the speakers.

I am the one hiding under your bed
Teeth ground sharp and eyes glowing red
I am the one hiding under your stairs
Fingers like snakes and spiders in my hair

"We're not late right?" Roman asked, getting behind what looked like Kojiro wearing an Oni mask. "Not at all, good doctor. We are just getting stated." The assassin who should be a Saber said, returning back to the tune.

This is Halloween, this is Halloween
Halloween, Halloween
Halloween, Halloween

Ritsuka watched as the line started moving back, with the doors to the cafeteria opening up. Inside he saw what looked like the entire heroic spirit roster and staff of Chaldea dressed in Halloween costumes mingling. He saw Lily Medea wearing her older selfs first ascension outfit with face cover talking to Artoria Lily who was wearing plastic knight armor. Ozymandius and Archer Gilgamesh has seemingly decided to wear the opposites outfit, Ozy wearing a costume of Gilgamesh armor while Gil wore a Ozy clothes. In the back of those two, Noctis wearing a ghost costume and Enkidu wearing a werewolf costume held a polite conversation.

In this town we call home
Everyone hail to the pumpkin song
In this town, don't we love it now?
Everybody's waiting for the next surprise

As the song continued to play, he saw EMIYA wearing what looked like a hoodie that looked familiar to Ritsuka, but he could not place. The assassin EMIYA was sitting with Irisviel, wearing a matching set of undead groom and bride costumes, watching magical girl Illya and Chloe (dressed up as zombie children) play with Voyager (wearing an alien costume) and Jack (wearing a reaper costume).

'Round that corner, man hiding in the trash can
Something's waiting now to pounce and how you'll scream
This is Halloween, red and black, slimy green
Aren't you scared? Well, that's just fine

Hawkeye and some members of his MASH were also there, dressed in assortment of costumes. Klinger was wearing, a really well made costume of Nightingale uniform, Hunnitcutt Tapper and Hawkeye were wearing a trio "three stooges" costume, Sherman Potter was wearing what looked like an old military uniform, and the rest of the group was in generic Halloween costumes. Ghosts, zombies, vampires.

Say it once, say it twice
Take a chance and roll the dice
Ride with the moon in the dead of night
Everybody scream, everybody scream
In our town of Halloween

As Ritsuka made their way into the repurposed cafeteria hall, they saw Tex and Church wearing 'ghost' costumes of their AI selves. Ritsuka saw "the three Cu's" trying to see who can balance their weapon on one hand, all three dressed in the others outfit. They saw Nightingale talking with Asclepius about treatment plans. The kid servants going around handing out and getting candy from the party goers. Because what else could this be but a party.

I am the clown with the tear-away face
Here in a flash and gone without a trace
I am the who when you call, "Who's there?"
I am the wind blowing through your hair
I am the shadow on the moon at night
Filling your dreams to the brim with fright

As the party was going on, Ritsuka looked and saw a woman, a woman made of patchwork. From the stitches in her body to the blueish skin, it was not hard to figure zombie. But she was different, different in that she registered as a servant but Ritsuka has no memory of summoning her. As they were about to go up to her, they spotted her talking to Mash, who was wearing a costume of Romans usual outfit. As Mash looked over, she spotted Ritsuka and called them over.

This is Halloween, this is Halloween
Halloween, Halloween
'Alloween, 'alloween
'Alloween, 'alloween

"Senpai, over here!" Mash exclaimed, as Ritsuka walked over. Sitting down at the table, Mash introduced Ritsuka to the zombie lady. "Senpai, this Sally." Mash said, as Sally offered to shake Ritsuka hand. Accepting it, Mash went had more to say "she is from Halloween Town, Jack Skellington home and NP." Now it made sense, Jack when first talking to Ritsuka said the people within his reality marble were really the denizens of Halloween Town and could count as servants.

Tender lumplings everywhere
Life's no fun without a good scare
That's our job, but we're not mean
In our town of Halloween
In this town, don't we love it now?
Everybody is waiting for the next surprise

As Ritsuka began talking with Sally, he heard the doors to the cafeteria open again and saw a group of servants wheeling in a Scarecrow? Ritsuka thought, confused once more. As the scarecrow came in, some people started joining on the song.

Skeleton Jack might catch you in the back
And scream like a banshee
Make you jump out of your skin
This is Halloween, everybody scream
Won't you please make way for a very special guy
Our man Jack is king of the Pumpkin Patch
Everyone hail to the Pumpkin King now

As the scarecrow with a pumpkin head came inside the cafeteria, he somehow caught on fire. Green flames erupted from the lantern and started to engulf the body. Seeing as nobody else was worried about this, Ritsuka watched on as the now on fire scarecrow made its way to a fountain How did they get running water into a fountain in the middle of the room?

This is Halloween, this is Halloween
'Alloween, 'alloween
'Alloween, 'alloween

The scarecrow, now seemingly alive jumped into the fountain, making an Olympic like dive into the pooling water. As the party goers watched on, they saw a ripple in the pool.

In this town we call home
Everyone hail to the pumpkin song

Jack Skellington came out of the pool, now dressed in his trademark pinstripe suit and skeletal visage. Throughout the large room, some people followed the "la la la la" part of the song while other applauded the now arrived host of the party. As people returned to what they were doing, Jack came to sit down next to Sally, Ritsuka, and Mash.