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 You are on the rooftop, but it’s not you.It’s someone else, whose body you’re occupying. You’re sharply aware of this, just like in your last nightmare.
 The girl you’re talking with is extremely sad. Something that shattered her heart happened.
 You can’t make out the words she’s saying but you assume she’s talking about killing herself.
 The alarm wakes you up before the closure you were longing for reached you. The unpleasant feeling of not being sure whether you saved the girl in the dream from dying or not accompanies you to the shower and to class.
 This is the first time since the beginning of the war that you can see Misha seated at her place. Maybe she decided to join in now that she’s not part of the Student Council alliance anymore. Her old bubbly personality seems gone. She's just pretending to focus on the lecture,while her head is probably wandering in wild places.
 You breathe a sigh of relief as Mutou assigns you to carry out group work.
 
 You move in immediately just next to her, and start talking.
 "Hello Misha. How are you?"
 Not an answer, her eyes fixed on the paper in front of you. You've never seen her so down. Probably you underestimated how important Shizune was in her life.
 "Hey, it's ok.You couldn't have known. I didn't know either. Shizune is being unfair to you".
 At the mention of her closest friend, Misha breaks down in tears.
 Mutou notices it and signals you to join him outside the classroom. Embarrassment overcomes you, but you get up and follow him anyway.
 
 He looks at you with distress. "Johnathan, what's going on with you?"
 "Pardon, what do you mean sir?"
 "I wouldn't even complain about your performance in my class, given your natural skill in scientific subjects. But you seem totally insulated from the rest of the students. Have you made any friends at all?"
 
 "Yes, I have", you claim without hesitation. It hasn't been easy, given how hostile everyone's been to you. But you made it.
 Mutou raises an eyebrow in suspicion.
 "Very well then, I believe you. But you seem to forget that people have boundaries. Even if you believe them to be your friends, you can force yourself onto them. Give them time, show them your open hand, and let them do the rest. Now let's get back to class".
 
 You continue your assignment in silence, thinking of what Mutou told you. After all, this is the way you become acquainted with your former rivals: you just lent them your open hand. Doing the same with Misha should be enough, she will decide on her own whether to accept your help or not.
 
 The lunch ring wakes you up from your thoughts. The assignment was especially demanding today, and doing it without a real partner has taken its toll on you. Now, your stomach is grumbling, and your head is aching for some relief. As you get up and start making your mind up on what to do, you hear a voice calling you.
 
 "Hey, John?"
 You turn around: it's Misha. Her eyes are puffy, but she's trying to keep it together.
 "Yes, Misha?"
 "Do you have plans for lunch? If not, can we eat together?"
 You wouldn't have denied her in the first place, but she's so sad and broken that at this point you'd buy her lunch on the top of that too.
 "Sure. Where would you like to go?"
 Misha shrugs. After all it's up to you to decide.
-You had meant to talk with Lily and Hanako in the Tea Room, but maybe Misha could use some friendly company. You could perhaps join Rin and Emi on the rooftop, if they're having lunch there again.
+You had meant to talk with Lilly and Hanako in the Tea Room, but maybe Misha could use some friendly company. You could perhaps join Rin and Emi on the rooftop, if they're having lunch there again.
 
 "Well, I think I will go to the rooftop. Yesterday I ate there with Emi and Rin, would you like to join?"
 A brief nod. She sure is down.
 You queue up at the cafeteria and you offer to pay for her lunch. She thanks you in a whisper.
 
 As you get up on the roof, you see nobody there. Probably they're eating somewhere else.
 "Oh dang, seems like we are alone here".
 As soon as the door closes, Misha starts crying her eyes out.
 She hugs you violently to hide her tears, and you pat her on her head to calm her down.
 "I am sorry! I am sorry!"
 What is she sorry for? Killing Hisao? Or is she sorry for kicking you out from the war?
 Most likely this is something she'd like to tell Shizune, but she's too afraid of being violently rejected, or she's just aware that you couldn't communicate so openly with somebody who can't hear.
 Eventually her crying stops, even if she's still sniffing.
 "You couldn't have known, Misha. Don't feel guilty", you say as convincingly as you can.
 She shakes her head.
 "It's not that. I really liked Hisao, and so did Shizune. But she liked him in a different way. She liked him the same way I like her. Do you understand what I mean?"
 "I guess"
 "I...I think I was happy when Hisao died. I was afraid he was going to steal Shizune from me. I was selfish. And when I killed Saber, I wanted to impress Shizune... now that backfired violently. John, am I a terrible person?"
 You admit to yourself that if circumstances were different, you would have no doubt judged her negatively.
 But she is probably in more pain than you are after Saber's death. Her whole world was Shizune, and now her whole world collapsed. She's left with crumbles in her hands. All in all, it was her who lost in your duel.
 "No Misha. I don't think you are. I think you're lonely and afraid, and so was I, until I met Saber. I guess now I am all alone again".
 Misha looks on the verge of crying again, and you curse yourself for saying something like that. But instead of breaking down, Misha smiles to you. "It's ok", she says. "I will be your friend".
 "Thanks".
 Her usual grin spreads on her face again.
 "No problem! But now we should definitely go and see your friends! I guess they're in the art room."
 "Hey Misha, never mind that. Let's just stay here and talk, ok?"
 She nods and smiles. "wahah, John, you're not going to confess, are you?"
 You join in her laughter "No, no, that was not my purpose. I just wanted to learn more about Shizune".
 She looks at you with a quizzically.
 "Are you still trying to defeat her?"
 "No, I don't think I could. I don't have a Servant anymore. I just want to understand why she's so focused on reviving Hisao."
 "You see, she thinks what happened is her fault. She can't stop blaming herself for his death. She insists that no matter how shy Hisao was, if we had been more persuasive, he would have joined the Student Council and we would have gone to the festival all together."
 "I don't really think that would have worked. I mean just look at how it went when you tried to coax me into joining your alliance"
 Misha turns serious again. "I think you're right, but Shicchan will never accept that. I think I am the only person who ever stuck around with her, and that's because I love her. I even changed my hairstyle for her". She takes a deep breath. "And yet nothing I do will ever change how she feels about me. I accepted to revive Hisao if I had gotten the Grail, but I am not sure if I would have the willpower to go through with it. It's too tempting to just ask the Grail to make me happy".
 
 While you could expect this to be the cover up of somebody who wants to mask her darkest intention, you truly believe that Misha feels conflicted about this. On the one hand, she would want Shizune to be happy. On the other, she can't stop wondering why it can't be her the person to make her happy.
 "You know, Misha, my desire wouldn't be any better. I just wish I could remember who I am", you say, with a dejected tone of voice.
 Misha looks at you puzzled for a second, then she laughs out loud once more.
 "Wahah! What a silly desire! You're John, who else could you be? You're not who you are, you are what you do!"
 "Let me guess: Shizune taught you that"
 She nods proudly.
 "She's a very clever girl, you should hang around with us when this whole thing is over!"
 
 The bell interrupts your conversation. It's time to go back to class
 "Come on Misha, or we'll be late".
 She gets up and follows you back the classroom.
 
 The rest of the day follows without particular events, until the bell that signals the end of class.
 Then, as soon as you get out of the room, you're welcomed by a familiar voice.
 
 "Hello, John. How have you been doing?"
-It's Lily. Hanako is nowhere to be seen.
+It's Lilly. Hanako is nowhere to be seen.
 "I have had better days"
-Lily assumes a worried expression, so you step in to calm her down.
+Lilly assumes a worried expression, so you step in to calm her down.
 "It's nothing, really. I suppose I am just not really bearing this absurd war situation anymore." Of course you're feeling sad because of Saber's departure, but at the same time you really can't afford your prospective enemies to know that you're virtually out of the competition.
 "It's understandable. Would you like to have some tea with me and Hanako? Just to get your mind off things".
 You are about to accept the offer wholeheartedly, when Misha appears behind you.
-it dawn upon you that going there alone is not safe. Lily has saved you more than once, but she and Shizune aren't really that different. She's determined to exile the Grail, and you don't know where she's willing to draw the line to achieve that.
+it dawn upon you that going there alone is not safe. Lilly has saved you more than once, but she and Shizune aren't really that different. She's determined to exile the Grail, and you don't know where she's willing to draw the line to achieve that.
 Maybe having Misha's and Berserker's protection could be beneficial to you in this situation.
 "Absolutely. Mind if Misha comes along?"
 Misha is surprised for a second, then she laughs out loud again.
 "Wahah, I have never had tea with miss class representative! But I guess it will be fun!"
-Lily looks surprised in turn.
+Lilly looks surprised in turn.
 "Oh dear, will we have the entire Student Council over?"
 "Only half of it", you are quick to interject. "I guess the other half has better things to do".
-Lily must have perceived this as as a joke at Shizune's expenses, as she laughs in her aristocratic fashion.
+Lilly must have perceived this as as a joke at Shizune's expenses, as she laughs in her aristocratic fashion.
-"Very well then. Let us go, Hanako waits for us. Oh, and no need to call me miss class representative. Just Lily will be fine!"
+"Very well then. Let us go, Hanako waits for us. Oh, and no need to call me miss class representative. Just Lilly will be fine!"
 
 When you arrive, the water is already boiling.
 Hanako is startled by your sudden arrival, as well as the fact that Misha's there.
 "Hey Hanako!", Misha screams, loud enough to wake up everyone in a 10 kilometers radius.
 "Sorry for Assassin, let's just leave it behind us, ok?"
 Hanako looks totally gobsmacked. Then she tries her hardest to look mad.
 "I-it's n-not ok! I-I will not forgive you!"
 In between amused and worried, you comment to yourself that at this rate Hanako will probably never be able to command any form of respect.
 "Relax, Hanako. Today Johnathan and Misha are our guests. No war involved, correct?"
 "Absolutely correct", you say, in a tone of voice that was maybe too enthusiastic.
 
 Tea is served, and the topic of conversation ranges from upcoming exams to funny anecdotes that took place in the school recently. You're mostly unaware of the latter, so you listen intently to learn something new.
-"I think I would like to discuss something", says Lily abruptly, with a solemn tone of voice.
+"I think I would like to discuss something", says Lilly abruptly, with a solemn tone of voice.
 "I assume whatever happened, you and Shizune split up. Isn't that so, Misha?"
 "Yes", whispers Misha. The recent event must still pain her.
 "I thought as much. Therefore I would formally like to propose you and John to join me in the quest to defeat Lancer. After that, we will wait for the arrival of the Grail to banish it forever".
 
-You swallow. If Lily were to realize that you don't have a Servant anymore, she might stop diplomatic relations with you altogether. On the other hand, you can't keep this hidden forever.
+You swallow. If Lilly were to realize that you don't have a Servant anymore, she might stop diplomatic relations with you altogether. On the other hand, you can't keep this hidden forever.
 
-"I couldn't accept even if I wanted, Lily. My Servant is dead".
+"I couldn't accept even if I wanted, Lilly. My Servant is dead".
 She raises an eyebrow. "Oh. I guess it might happen to an inexpert Master."
 This comment stings, but you let it pass to see if she's going to make a point.
 "Was it Lancer?"
 "No."
 
-Silence falls upon the room. Apparently Lily and Hanako connected the dots.
+Silence falls upon the room. Apparently Lilly and Hanako connected the dots.
 "So Berserker defeated your Servant, and then you invited his Master for tea together".
 "And for lunch", you add.
-Lily laughs once more, this time a little bit more freely.
+Lilly laughs once more, this time a little bit more freely.
 "My, my John. You really are a forgiving man. I've had the chance to witness Berserker fight. He deviated all of Archer's arrows. That is an odd feat, his sword must be blessed to do something like that".
 Misha grins proudly and crosses her arms on her chest.
 "Wahaha! That's a secret, miss Satou!"
 "I assumed that much. Misha, would you like to join me, then?"
 Misha seems to be pondering this intensely. You guess she doesn't want to betray Shizune, albeit she already turned her back on Misha.
 "I am sorry, I don't think I can".
-Lily takes her last sip, then puts the empty cup on the table.
+Lilly takes her last sip, then puts the empty cup on the table.
 "I understand you perfectly." Unexpectedly, she smiles in your general direction. "It was lovely to have you guys over. Do come back more often, it gets lonely here". Hanako is trying her best to pout, but she still looks like an hurt puppy at best.
 
-On you way out, you turn around to talk with Lily.
+On you way out, you turn around to talk with Lilly.
 "I think I should tell you the full story. You see, Saber gave me his left arm, and I think I still have"
 "Don't." She looks at you with a stern face.
 "Don't do anything stupid. This is a war between Servants only. Understood?"
 "But..."
 You notice the change in her expression. She's worried now.
 "This school doesn't need any more dead people", she says, a hint of sadness in her voice.
-"Have a good day, Lily. Thanks for having us over". She smiles again, and bids you farewell.
+"Have a good day, Lilly. Thanks for having us over". She smiles again, and bids you farewell.
 
 "WAHAHAH"
 Misha's laugher is even more intense and annoying than it usually is.
 "What is it, Misha?"
-"What do you mean what is it? Lily has the hots for you, John! Wahahaha"
+"What do you mean what is it? Lilly has the hots for you, John! Wahahaha"
 "This is preposterous, Misha. She just cares about people. Novices and former rivals included".
-"No, no, no John! this is female intuition, trust me! Lily agreed to have me over just because you asked her. I noticed when Shizune fell for Hisao, and now Lily's falling for you! What a playboy you are!"
+"No, no, no John! this is female intuition, trust me! Lilly agreed to have me over just because you asked her. I noticed when Shizune fell for Hisao, and now Lilly's falling for you! What a playboy you are!"
 You laugh with her.
 "Anyway, John. Thanks for today. I think I would have spent the whole day in misery".
 An earnest smile this time, not the one she always has on her face. "I will make it up to you, somehow".
 
 Having said this, she departs to her dormitory.
 You have the rest of the day free.
 You still have that book to return to the library. You haven't read a single page of it, and you hope Yuuko won't ask you too much about it.
 
 She's there, sitting at her desk, filling paperwork.
 "Good Evening, ehmm... Jack"
 "Good evening, Yuuko". It's probably better not to correct her, for her own sake really.
 "I am here to return the book I borrowed"
 "Was it interesting?" Dang.
 "I guess it was! I had no time to finish it though".
 "Alternative Universes are so fascinating! Imagine if we could visit them all. Maybe there's one in which I have enough money not to have to work part-time here. Or maybe there's one in which I am still together with my boyfriend?"
 "You had a boyfriend?"
 "Is that so unlikely?" she says, looking distressed.
 "No, no. I guess I just had no idea. What happened to him?"
 "I have no clue. One day he just disappeared"
 You raise your eyebrow in suspicion. How does a person disappear? Yuuko's voice calls you back to reality.
 "Hmm, did you leave this mark here?"
 You get closer to the book, and you see the symbol of a sword etched on the front page of the book.
 "No, it was already like this when I got it". That's a blatant lie, you have never opened the book and never noticed that symbol to begin with. For all you know you might have scribbled that in your sleep.
 She starts sweating profusely. "Oh no, now I have to trace the former user and sanction them..." You almost feel bad for her, but decide to disappear before the situation gets worse.
 
 On your way to your dormitory, you seem to distinguish a small girl with prosthetic legs and ponytails.
 "Hello, Emi"
 "Hey John!", she says with a wide smile on her face. You assume she went back to being the happy girl people told you about. How sad that she's merely pretending to be so joyous to people around her.
 "What are you doing horsing around at this hour? Aren't you tired?"
 "Nope!", she claims defiantly. "I live to run! And you should join me too, one of those days. It would help you stay in shape."
 You thank her for her offer, and head to your dorm, seriously considering her offer. Come to think of it, you've probably never seen her wearing her school uniform except for when you ate together on the rooftop. She's always ready for a run, apparently.
 You unlock the the door and get in your room.
 You focus to conjure Saber's Armor around your arm. You ponder how far it can get you.
 This is not the first time you consider if you're able to use any of Saber's abilities. The only way is trying.
 But perhaps this is not the time to rush it.
 
 You lay in your bed, your head full of thoughts. Sooner than you realize, you're asleep.
 The next day follows without any particular event. It's Sunday, but your moodiness is getting in your way.
 You spend most of the time in your room studying, getting out just to grab some lunch.
 You have an unexpected encounter on your way back.
 "Hello Emi. Running despite the rain?" She's wearing a sweater this time, but she's still in shorts. Probably longer pants would get in the way of her prosthetics.
 "Bah, it's just some water! What does it matter?"
 "Well, I am just saying, watch out"
 "I am old enough to care for myself", she says, sticking her tongue out in mockery. "Come to the running track tomorrow, we'll start your training"
 "I've never agreed to train with you to begin with"
 "Not until you know", she says cheekily.
 You sigh. "Very well then, see you tomorrow"
 She smiles at you before running off to the track.
 
 On your way to your room, nostalgia overtakes you. You're once again thinking about Saber.
 He was probably the closest thing you had to a friend in this school. Sure, the other girls have been friendly to you, but it simply isn't the same thing. They only acted friendly after you helped them. Saber was always the first to give.
 "Look, we only have one string connecting each other. This is because the only thing we have is each other". You remember his words and tears choke you up. He was never your Servant. He was your friend.
 
 You fall asleep the moment you lie on your bed. You and start dreaming. It's a strange dream. Shizune is in front of you, with her arms stretched out at the sky. Then, few seconds later, the sky is lit by fireworks. It's a majestic sight to behold.
 A familiar voice surprises you.
 "It's great, isn't it? One of my fondest memories". You turn around to see Hisao.
 "Saber..."
 "Don't beat yourself up. Things went as they had to go. It is the unescapable Necessity. You might as well enjoy the fireworks while you are at it, right?"
 You smile to him in approval. "You're right. Thanks for everything, Saber".
 "Don't mention it, John. I did what a loyal servant should do. I am happy you were my Master".
 He turns around and starts walking towards a light in the horizon.
 "Hey, Hisao!" you scream at the top of your lungs. "I will win! I will win for you and fix this reality!"
 He smiles to you. "It's the first time you call me by name", he comments.
 You would like to reply, but the alarm wakes you up.
 Something must be wrong with it, since it was set off one hour earlier than it should.
 
 You could try to get back to sleep, but you reason it'd be hard for you to do now that you woke up. Then you remember you had promised Emi to join her at the running track.
 Some exercise wouldn't hurt, so you decide to get up and get going. As soon as you wake up, you stumble on something. Cursing your poor management of spaces, you try to identify what is it that made you stumble.
 
 You are absolutely astonished to see it's Ananke. No doubt a present from Saber, and probably critically important if you wish to fight or protect yourself in case you're caught in a fight.
 You're overjoyed, with tears flowing down your eyes. Then the problem of how to hide it hits you. You grasp it with your left arm, thinking of placing it below your bed, but the blade disappears mysteriously.
 You try to focus on it, on how it felt in your hands and on its shape, and you see the sword reappear. Maybe you're not out of this fight yet.
 Now, if just you managed to summon the rest of Saber's outfit...
 But that's a problem for another day.
 
 You get up, change into something sporty and head for the running track.
 That's where you used to fight, and you wonder if Emi, being servantless, is at risk of getting harmed. Your situation is a bit on the borderline, given that you Saber's gifts, and that might endanger you even more than being Servantless. Shizune looks like the kind of girl who doesn't stop at any cost, and Berserker is most likely not in the mood for negotiations.
 You try to look left and right for Emi, however, no one seems to be around.
 Maybe you could run on your own. After all, you never set a meeting with Emi, it's reasonable to believe she's otherwise occupied.
 Running and exercising alone sound terribly boring. You reckon this is is the reason Emi offered to run together.
 
 'Might as well go to class', you think to yourself.
 But that would mean giving up on the first day. Emi would scold you for days just because of this. Living in serenity is probably worth a few laps.
 
 Then, as you enter the running track, air coruscates, and you find yourself in the middle of a Servant fight.
 On one side, Berserker and Misha.
 On the other, Lancer and Shizune.
 
 This final confrontation couldn't have been avoided, and it finally happened.
 Berserker is fighting at a tenth of its actual potential. Lancer seems to be overwhelming him, and you know for sure that given how easily he disposed of Saber, he could probably beat Lancer up much worse than this.
 Can it be, that Misha is holding herself back ?
 Her devotion borders the hopeless.
 
 Jumping now into the fray on Berserker's side is probably a foolish move, and would get you killed no doubt. And yet you can't just watch Misha and her hopes getting destroyed for the sake of Shizune's ego.
 
 The feeling of powerlessness and the innate desire to help others seem to corroborate each other, in a confusing way.
 Then, after blinking once more, you see it.
 The intricate system of cables and string that was Saber's Reality Marble is now in front of you, albeit in a much weaker form. You can't control it the way Saber did, but you can see the strings that connect every person.
 
 The usual golden string is connecting Lancer to Shizune, and the dark black and blue cable is connecting Misha and Berserker. It has swelled almost tenfolds since the last time you saw it. Can it be that is not strengthening Berserker, but weakening him with its weight?
 
 "YOU DESERVE HAPPINESS! AS MUCH AS ANYONE ELSE! GIVE THEM HELL, MISHA!"
 Everybody turns around to look at you.
 
 "Well well well, the wimp is back", comments Lancer sarcastically. "Where is your Servant?"
 His condescension costs him dearly, as Berserker strikes back at him with great strength.
 
 Masters and Servants ignore you, as the fight becomes fiercer. The black line between Misha and Berserker seems to be getting back at a normal rate, while Misha grins with determination. Such a sight fills you with joy, as you can finally see Misha fighting for her own sake.
 Lancer is getting the short end of the straw, as Berserker gains power with every new hit.
 Shizune seems to be at a loss for words, her expression changing swiftly from shock to impotent rage.
 
 Misha seems to catch this on Shizune's face, and has a moment of hesitation.
 Both Lancer and his Master seem to realize this.
 Lancer kicks Berserker in the stomach, starving him off.
 Then, he pulls his lance and assumes throwing position.
 It is in that moment that you can see Lancer and Shizune's golden bond break and turn into the same black and blue cable as Misha's.
 
 Lancer lets out a terrifying shout.
 "DORU TON SPARTIATON!".It must be his Noble Phantasm.
 The lance thrown at Berserker flies faster than an airplane, and pierces his heart.
 
 Berserker falls down, defeated,
 Misha extends an arm towards him, calling his name out loud. The familiar golden haze surrounding him, Berserker removes his helmet. His eyes are long and blonde, and his eyes are deep and blue. He seems oddly at peace.
 "You let down your guard, Master. I can understand why". He gasps for air. "I knew in life the pain of loving a woman who didn't love me, just like you. I regret every second I hated her. I regret every second I hated her lover.
 How many wars have been fought over something so petty as the affection of a woman?" Another gasp for air, now even more desperate.
 "Berserker..." Misha's face is a mask of pain and tears.
 "Don't forget who your true friends are, Misha. My friends brought my sanity back to me from the Moon. Your friends can do much more for you."
 "Berserker, I don't want you to go..."
 A sincere smile appears on Berserker's face.
 "I won't be gone. I will be always with you. Are we friends, Master?"
 Misha slowly nods, as tears fall down her face.
 Not even Shizune seems to be immune to this scene. She looks at it with a look of distress, while Lancer's arm is resting on her shoulder.
 "Good. Then we will never be apart, Master. Don't forget, we're friends forever."
 With these last words, Berserker disappears.
 
 "And now..." Lancer takes a step forward, wielding his lance and his large shield. "We dispose of the traitors"
 A stony silence falls on the battlefield. Misha's sadness has now turned into genuine fear for her life. Your right hand is clenched around your left wrist, ready to summon Ananke if necessary.
 Shizune is still looking distraught, while Lancer looks at you sardonically.
 
 Then, Shizune takes a step forward. Showing you the back of her hand with the Command Seals, she touches the tattoo and you can see one of the figures composing it disappear. She must be using a Command Spell.
 Lancer turns around to look at her with his only good eye, then he squints at you.
 "It will be for another day, sniveling coward. Until then".
 
 Both Shizune and Lancer take their leave, as you bend over trying to help Misha get up.
 She's sitting in the dust, holding her legs with her arms.
 She is not even looking at you, and she seem to have no desire to get up either, her head resting on her knees sidewise.
 "I have no more tears to cry, John. I have cried my eyes out, all in vain. I was the reason Berserker was defeated. I was the reason you were defeated. And I lost Shizune too, on the top of it. Wouldn't it be better if just disappeared?"
 You put an hand on her shoulder.
 "Don't say things like that, Misha".
 "Who's going to miss me?"
 "I am, for sure"
 She smiles to you sadly. "You're the only one by now, John".
 You shake your head vigorously. "Shizune hasn't forgotten you, she's just confused by her own actions. When this war will be over you will get your friend back. Besides, think of your family".
 Misha laughs bitterly. "My family? John, have you forgotten where you are? Families dump their 'special' kids at Yamaku when they don't want them around anymore. No exceptions".
 You stop and think. You don't even have a family to begin with.
 You are probably not fit to cheer Misha up, but you have to say something.
 
 "Have you forgotten what Berserker said?"
 Your words seem to have piqued her interest.
 "She said that when all seems lost, your friends got your back. I have your back. And Berserker too. He promised you'd be friends forever".
 She smiles, this time a little bit more brightly.
 "You are very lonely, John. Aren't you? This is why you always try to help people".
 Her words take you by surprise. You never realized how lonely you were up to this point. Is she saying this because she can relate?
 All the girls you now call friends ignored you until you came around and helped them.
 "I helped them because I thought it was the right thing to do"
 "Why do you think so?"
 You shrug."What is the point of crushing somebody who is down, Misha?I didn't help you because I wanted your friendship in return. It just felt right. When I came here, everybody treated me poorly or avoided me. That hurt, I didn't want anybody to feel the same. Maybe it's idealistic or crazy,but I never had to give up on anything to make people around me happy, so far".
 She smiles, looking at the ground. She probably gave up on a lot to make Shizune happy. "Your happiness is important too,Misha. At least for me".
 She turns her gaze to you once more.
 "Thank you John. You deserve happiness too. Don't place other people's happiness before your own,like I did".
 "I will never", you claim confidently.
 She stretches her hand towards you, and it takes you a while to catch the hint.Then you finally help her up, and you both laugh.
 "I can't wait for this whole war business to be over", you claim.
 "What do you want to do afterwards?"
 "Hm...I want to visit a certain friend of mine. I don't know for the rest. And what about you?"
 Misha looks at the sky, thinking intensely.
 "I want to improve my curriculum. I would like to study abroad, you know?"
 As you're entering the school, something comes to your mind instantly. Emi wasn't at the track. Maybe something happened to her.
 
 "Misha, I would like to go check up on Emi. She didn't show up today at the running track, and I am worried about her. Do you mind?"
 She lets out her typical cheerful laughter.
 "I am not sure how to feel now, John! Are you just a good friend or a playboy?"
 'Why does everyone here have a thing for dirty jokes?'
 "Misha, I will never grasp this odd fantasy of yours to pair me with every girl I meet. That should be *my* job, right?"
 This time you both laugh, then she waves you goodbye as you leave for Emi's dormitory.
 
 The school is practically deserted at this time of the day. You feel like the last man alive on Earth, wandering through empty corridors in the early morning to avoid getting caught by zombies. Only two Servants are still alive, and they belong to two girls who don't seem to be quite fond of each other. The thought of blood being spilled in this feud makes you wince.
 You're halfway there, when you recognize a familiar sound of a metal stick against the floor.
-You turn around to see Lily accompanied by Hanako.
+You turn around to see Lilly accompanied by Hanako.
 "H-hello", murmurs the shy girl.
-"Who is there, Hanako?" asks Lily.
+"Who is there, Hanako?" asks Lilly.
 "It's me, it's just John."
 "Oh, good morning John. I didn't think you were such a morning person"
 "I am not! I was hoping to do some exercise, but things, err... did not go as planned".
-Lily seems to get suspicious.
+Lilly seems to get suspicious.
 "Maybe we should discuss this at the tea room. What do you think?"
 
 "I am in a hurry right now. If you want we will discuss the details later. Do you mind?"
 She smiles imperceptibly. "Of course not. See you later".
 
 The rest of the walk is just as uneventful. You arrive at Emi's door and knock on it. No response.
 You try knocking once more, and obtain the same result.
 You wait for a couple of minutes, and as you're about to give up, Rin gets out of her room.
 "What are you doing here?"
 "Oh yes Rin, good morning to you too. I am fine thanks. And how are you?"
 She looks quizzically at you. Then she proceeds as if social conventions never existed.
 "Emi's sick. She's got her medicines and the Nurse said she has to rest. I will tell her you came by."
 "That settles it then. See you around".
 She ignores you completely and just wanders off, probably to the art room.
 
 You look at her with apprehension. This is a place where physically handicapped people can be taken of, but there's nothing to help their shattered hearts. If the most cheerful girls have such a dark story, then what of the saddest?
 
 Lost in your thoughts, you wander through the school aimlessly. You stop by a vending machine and get yourself a soda before moving on in your solitary promenade.
 A classmate of yours notices you and waves at you, as you wave back at him. It's odd how most guys here don't socialize with each other, with the significant exception of Kenji. Girls seem to be much more extroverted. It must be that Kenji has befriended every guy, and now they do their best to avoid each other not to bump into him again.
 
 The noise of something heavy falling on the ground reaches your hear from a nearby room.
 It is the library. Yuuko must surely be struggling with her work.
 You open the library door to see Yuuko handling large boxes. You rush in to help her carry them, and chances are she didn't recognize you, as your face is covered by the large cartons.
 As you lay them down and finally reveal yourself, Yuuko bends over at breackneck speed. "Thank you, thank you, thank you!"
 You back off, a bit embarrassed by Yuuko's excessive thankfulness. "It's ok Yuuko, don't mention it".
 She smiles uneasily at you. "What can I do for you today?"
 You didn't really come there with a purpose, you just happened to wander there to help her. However there's something you wanted to check.
 "Can I see the book I brought back?"
 Yuuko nods, and retrieves your book from the desk. The sword is still etched on the front page. You touch it slowly. Somehow, it reminds you of Ananke.
 You see Yuuko looking inquisitively at you. Handing back her book, you tell her "I have been meaning to ask this since our last encounter. Could you tell me more about your ex boyfriend?"
 She frowns "Oh, he was younger than me. I didn't realize until we were already dating. His eyesight was really poor but he was always reading about strange conspiracy theories and..."
 The shock is such that you choke on your spit. You start coughing for air and Yuuko moves in to help you. Few seconds later, you've regained control but you can't still wrap your head around the fact that Yuuko and Kenji were dating.
 "Are you alright?"
 "Yeah, I am. I guess I should be more careful. I have to go now, or I will be late for class"
 "See you, John"
 "See you, Yuuko".
 
 You head for the class still astounded by the revelation. You've been through an awful war between Heroic Spirits and yet the fact that those two were dating is still more astounding than whatever happened in war until now.
 
 As you sit down at your desk and Mutou hands out assignments, you notice that Hanako and Misha are in class, but Shizune is nowhere to be seen.The lunch bell takes an eternity to ring. You have to endure the worst class so far, and the sound of it ending is almost liberating.
 No sooner had you gotten up that Hanako rushed at you clumsily.
-"L-Lily says she wants to talk, i-it's imp-important".
+"L-Lilly says she wants to talk, i-it's imp-important".
 She tries to sound concerned and imperious, but her stutter prevented it.
 You try to look for Misha, and see she's busy talking with Mutou.
 
-It is safe to assume that she's asking for advice about her career. It's probably the right time to talk with Lily.
+It is safe to assume that she's asking for advice about her career. It's probably the right time to talk with Lilly.
 
-You follow Hanako to the tea room, where Lily is sitting reading a book in braille.
+You follow Hanako to the tea room, where Lilly is sitting reading a book in braille.
 "Hello Hanako, is John with you?"
 "He is", you say with a hint of jest in your voice.
 "Take a seat then. I think we have to talk".
-You sit at the table in front of Lily, as Hanako pours some tea in everyone's cup.
+You sit at the table in front of Lilly, as Hanako pours some tea in everyone's cup.
 
-You take a sip of it. French Vanilla, Lily's favorite.
+You take a sip of it. French Vanilla, Lilly's favorite.
-"I am all ears", you say, as you notice that Lily is not speaking up yet.
+"I am all ears", you say, as you notice that Lilly is not speaking up yet.
 "This morning, you were at the running track, right?"
 No point in lying to her, you think she probably dispatched Archer to watch over what happened.
 "I was. I went there to start my training with Emi, to be honest, but as I think I told you, things turned out differently"
 "I am aware. There was a fight, isn't that so?"
 "Yes. Lancer and Berserker fought. It was rather sad to see friends turn against each other"
 "I believe, John, that it wasn't as mutual as you make it to be. Shizune can be merciless even towards former friends who she now considers spokes in her wheel. I should know, of all people". She frowns.
 "Poor Misha, it must have been hard for her. I assume it was Shizune who came out on top of the fight. Misha simply lacks the willpower to win such a struggle". She takes one more sip. "She's always just been Shizune's lackey and endured her diktat just to please her. It must hurt her to know that all she did was in vain. After all this is what happens when you grow dependent on an abusive person"
-You're filled with rage. What Lily says is true, but that doesn't make it right.
+You're filled with rage. What Lilly says is true, but that doesn't make it right.
-"Misha is stronger than you think! She has just selected her priorities poorly. What gives you the right to judge her so harshly? I thought you were better than that, Lily. I always thought you were more understanding and more moderate compared to Shizune. But you're just as heartless."
+"Misha is stronger than you think! She has just selected her priorities poorly. What gives you the right to judge her so harshly? I thought you were better than that, Lilly. I always thought you were more understanding and more moderate compared to Shizune. But you're just as heartless."
 You get up abruptly. "Misha is my friend, too. And I won't stay here listening to you bad mouth her. Have a nice day".
 "Wait, John..."
 You don't give her a chance to reply
 You get out, slamming the door shut.
 The rest of the day goes on uneventfully.
 Afternoon classes are over and you can finally breath free for a while. You head for your room, and, having changed your clothes into something more comfortable, you take out your books to start studying.
 You notice you have a hard time focusing, and think that maybe taking a nap would be a good idea.
 
 
 You throw the books aside, and fall asleep on your bed.
 In your dream, you're sitting in a field of dandelions. Rin is front of you.
 
 You feel an hand on your shoulder.
 You turn around to see Hisao with a disapproving look on his face.
 
-"Just what happened between you and Lily?"
+"Just what happened between you and Lilly?"
 "Nothing worth discussing, Saber. Nothing worth spoiling this good memory for".
 He shakes his head. "No, really, tell me".
 "Well, I was upset. Why do they think it's ok to treat that girl like if it were a piece of furniture?"
 "Oh, so are you her white knight protector in shining armor?"
-"It's not that, I guess that after witnessing what Shizune did to her Lily's comments rubbed me the wrong way".
+"It's not that, I guess that after witnessing what Shizune did to her Lilly's comments rubbed me the wrong way".
-"John, you have a good heart. Lily was the first to notice this. Consider that you might have overreacted".
+"John, you have a good heart. Lilly was the first to notice this. Consider that you might have overreacted".
 You nod in agreement.
-"I will look for Lily and apologize. I don't know what I was thinking"
+"I will look for Lilly and apologize. I don't know what I was thinking"
 Hisao smiles. "I am sure she will understand. Be more careful next time."
 He stands up and stares right into the sun.
 "I guess you'll have to run".
 
 You wake up suddenly. The sun has set and the room is dark around you.
 You stretch your arms and get out of the bed slowly, waiting for your eyes to focus.
 You change into the school uniform and you get out of your dorm.
 On your way to the running track, you start rehearsing the apology you prepared.
-You were tired, you were rubbed the wrong way, you were just too impulsive. The pleasant thought of Lily smiling forgivingly makes the whole thing more bearable.
+You were tired, you were rubbed the wrong way, you were just too impulsive. The pleasant thought of Lilly smiling forgivingly makes the whole thing more bearable.
-Once in the main hallway, you start thinking of where Lily could be. She's fond of reading, so it wouldn't be strange to find her in the library. On the other hand, you remember Hisao saying "Then I guess you'll have to run".
+Once in the main hallway, you start thinking of where Lilly could be. She's fond of reading, so it wouldn't be strange to find her in the library. On the other hand, you remember Hisao saying "Then I guess you'll have to run".
-Was he hinting that you could find Lily at the running track?
+Was he hinting that you could find her at the running track?
 More out of curiosity than anything, you head in that direction. Could it be that the final showdown between the bitterest rivals in the school is already taking place?
-You find Lily sitting on the bleachers in front of the running track. Maybe she just came here for a walk, since she's standing well outside of the Reality Marble.
+You find her sitting on the bleachers in front of the running track. Maybe she just came here for a walk, since she's standing well outside of the Reality Marble.
 
-"Hello, Lily"
+"Hello, Lilly"
 "John? Is that you?"
 "Yes. I would like to apologize. I've been a jerk. I didn't mean what I said, I guess the way Shizune treated Misha irked me, and then I flipped at your comments. I shouldn't have. I should have known better. Forgive me".
 She smiles happily. "Don't worry John. We all have our bad days. Your intentions were noble after all"
 "I think I remember reading somewhere that the road to Hell is paved with good intentions".
 She laughs softly. Then she turns serious for a moment.
 "John, there's something else. I..."
 
-Lily's speech is cut off by the noise of metal pressing against metal.
+Lilly's speech is cut off by the noise of metal pressing against metal.
 Lancer is coming closer, with Shizune following. "Come out, Archer. Let's settle this like men, shall we?"
-"I didn't expect you so early", Lily says. "Even better, we'll be done sooner"
+"I didn't expect you so early", Lilly says. "Even better, we'll be done sooner"
 "Did you scheduled a clash with Shizune?"
 "Yes I have. This war has been going on for too long. It's been taking a toll on all of us, and it's time to end it for good".
 "Wise words, wise words", claims Lancer boisterously. "Let's head into the Reality Marble".
 
 In that instant, Archer materializes.
 It's the first time you see him. He's wearing a Roman-style armor, a short sword hanging from his side, a quiver on his back and a longbow in his hands. His hair is dirt blonde, and his eyes are hazel.
 "Bring it on, Lancer", he says coldly.
 The four of them head to the Marble.
-Just before entering, Lily turns to you.
+Just before entering, Lilly turns to you.
 "Stay out of this, John. I don't want you to get injured. It's not your war. Not anymore".
 
 One by one, you see them all disappearing the walls of the Reality Marble. Is it really acceptable to wait out until the war is over?
 This isn't what Saber would want. This is not what YOU want. It's your war as long as you care about the about the people fighting it.
 You head for the running track. You've witnessed the beginning of this, now it's time to witness the end. After taking a few steps, you fall over and start coughing violently. Your head feels light and heavy at the same time, as if you had fever. You pull yourself up with a struggle, and walk slowly to the Reality Marble.
 Inside, Archer and Lancer are fighting. No one seems to be clearly on top of the other.
 Archer is firing his arrows as quickly as he can, sometimes even in melee range, helping himself with his gladius. Lancer is using his shield optimally, blocking Archer's arrow before they can hurt him. None of the Servants seem to be fighting at their maximum power, probably waiting out to play their trump cards until they've clearly identified the enemy's weaknesses.
 Your vision is foggy and standing up is taking an enormous effort. You cough again, spitting something dark shortly after.
 Shizune seems to have acknowledged your presence, but doesn't pay you much attention.
-Lily on the other hand seems to focus on the fight as much as she can, using her superior hearing.
+Lilly on the other hand seems to focus on the fight as much as she can, using her superior hearing.
-When you cough again, Lily turns in your direction.
+When you cough again, Lilly turns in your direction.
 "John? Are you here?"
 "It's me. Focus on the battle now".
 
 You can hear your heart pumping. You fall backward and you faint.
-As you open your eyes, you're in a night club. Lily and a person you can't recognize are drinking together. You're not sure if it's a girl or a boy.
+As you open your eyes, you're in a night club. Lilly and a person you can't recognize are drinking together. You're not sure if it's a girl or a boy.
 In front of you, Hanako, in casual outfit, is playing Pool.
 Hisao is behind her, with a billiard cue in his hands. He gives you a nod, waits for Hanako to be done and then takes his turn.
 "What brings you here, John?"
 "I don't know. I was in the Reality Marble. Archer and Lancer were fighting. Then I fainted"
 Hisao gets worried suddenly. "You weren't fighting, were you?"
 "No, although I must admit that I considered it for a second. I suddenly became weak, somehow. What is going on with me?"
 He shurgs. "I have no idea. So this is it. The final confrontation. Who do you hope will win?"
-You consider the matter for a while. Lily is your friend, much more so than Shizune. And yet you'd really like Hisao to come back to life.
+You consider the matter for a while. Lilly is your friend, much more so than Shizune. And yet you'd really like Hisao to come back to life.
 "Tough call?"
 "I think so. I think they're both fighting for something important. Picking a side here is difficult"
 "Maybe you can avoid picking a side altogether. After all there is nothing you can do. If both scenarios have their upsides, focus on them."
 "It's probably the best way to handle this, I think"
 Hisao takes aim with care, then shoots. The white ball hits the black one, which ends up in a hole.
 Hisao mocks disappointment at his defeat, then congratulates Hanako with a shake of hand.
 "How do I get out of this, Saber?"
 He turns to face you. "What do you mean?"
 "At one point I usually wake up. Now I can't"
 "Well, do you want to go back John?"
 This is a rather difficult question. You think you wouldn't mind living inside Saber's memories.
 Surely it'd be more comfortable.
 
 "There is no other option for me, Saber. I have promises I have made".
 "You can't win this war anymore, Johnathan. What do you plan to do?"
 "Even if I can't win, even if I can't keep my promise to you, there are other people waiting for me out there. One of them is fighting right now, and I'd put my life on the line to prevent her from getting injured. I have to go there".
 Hisao looks into your eyes, then starts chanting
 "The stream flows, and the birds sing..."
 "...the wind blows, and the rain pours..."
 "...the clouds fleet, and the sun shines..."
 "..and this wicked heart beats, one more time!"
 
 As soon as you finish the rhyme, you wake up.
 You're laying on the cold floor of the running track. You gasp for air, as you feel something sticky over your mouth, and quickly wipe it away.
 You stand up easily, at once devoid of the weakness you felt a few minutes before.
 
 The battle is raging on as intensely as before, with the Servants still in their prime. As you watch the battle unfold, it seems that Archer is slowly gaining an advantage over Lancer.
 He's not clearly overpowering him, but it appears more and more evident that if the fight goes on like this, Shizune will lose.
 Shizune seems to have noticed too, as she starts fidgeting nervously with her glasses.
 She's looking at her Command Seals. Does she have a plan?
-You try to focus on the four people standing in the Marble with you. You can't see their bonds with the same clarity as before, but you can sort of guess where they are and how strong they are. In particular, a thick red string is connecting Shizune's and Lily's head. Rivarly?
+You try to focus on the four people standing in the Marble with you. You can't see their bonds with the same clarity as before, but you can sort of guess where they are and how strong they are. In particular, a thick red string is connecting Shizune's and Lilly's head. Rivarly?
 Hate? Loathing?
-Finally, Shizune makes a decisive move with her hand on her command seals. You see the red string pulsating and generating a wave that goes from Shizune's head to Lily's head.
+Finally, Shizune makes a decisive move with her hand on her command seals. You see the red string pulsating and generating a wave that goes from Shizune's head to Lilly's head.
-Lancer is still fighting with Archer, short sword against short sword. Then, with a quick movement, he disarms him and throws him to the ground. He reaches for his lance, and with all the strength in his body, he throws it at Lily.
+Lancer is still fighting with Archer, short sword against short sword. Then, with a quick movement, he disarms him and throws him to the ground. He reaches for his lance, and with all the strength in his body, he throws it at Lilly.
 
 Archer gets up in the blink of an eye, and reloads his bow, aiming for the lance.
 It is now your choice to try and get involved, or simply hope for the best.
 
-Archer's aim is steady and true, and it saved you once in the past already. Regardless, your impulsivity and your sense of duty kick in inside you, pushing you towards Lily, conjuring Ananke in you hand and attempting to use it to stop Lancer's spear.
+Archer's aim is steady and true, and it saved you once in the past already. Regardless, your impulsivity and your sense of duty kick in inside you, pushing you towards Lilly, conjuring Ananke in you hand and attempting to use it to stop Lancer's spear.
 
 Archer's arrow, your sword, and the lance treacherously thrown by Shizune's servant all collide at the same time.
-A deflagration of magic energy occurs, which throws you and Lily in opposite directions.
+A deflagration of magic energy occurs, which throws you and Lilly in opposite directions.
-You get up with nothing but a few bruises. You rush towards Lily.
+You get up with nothing but a few bruises. You rush towards Lilly.
-"Lily! Are you ok?"
+"Lilly! Are you ok?"
 "I think so", she whsipers. "I think my legs are broken, however".
 You help her sit, and she winces in pain.
 You turn towards the fight. Lancer is holding one more lance in his hands, but he's looking down in shame. Archer reloaded his bow, but he's not yet shooting on Lancer.
 'What are you waiting for, Archer? Just finish him!'
 Slowly, Lancer turns around, to look into his Master's eyes. They're probably communicating telepathically just like you and Saber used to, given Shizune's disability.
 Lancer seems devastated, even if it's unclear if he's ashamed for failing or for his cowardly act.
 You can see the bond between Master and Servant falter and glitch, as if it were in the process to disappear.
 
 Slowly, the connection grows fainter and fainter, until it disappears.
 Both you and Archer are looking at Lancer, who's not moving by an inch, probably spending his final words with his Master.
 Then, with the golden haze surrounding him, he starts talking.
 "Young lady, I am sorry for what my Master forced me to do. It was a dirty trick. I, Aristodemus of the Spartans, have always lived with rectitude. When my King ordered me to withdraw because of my sickness, I obeyed him, only to be shunned by my countrymen.
 When the occasion to fight presented itself once more, I fought with all my forces, perishing in the battle. Not even in death did I find the approval of the Spartans. Thus I learned that the path my Master is walking is wrong. She came into this war crushed by what she felt was her responsibility, just like I faced my last battle crushed by dishonor. But there's no virtue in zealotry. I severed my contract with her at once, and I shall not be bothering you anymore. Farewell".
 
-As Lancer disappears, Shizune sits on the ground, with a sad expression on her face. 'There will be time to talk with her later', you think, as you approach Lily.
+As Lancer disappears, Shizune sits on the ground, with a sad expression on her face. 'There will be time to talk with her later', you think, as you approach Lilly.
 "Congratulations, to you and to Archer. You've won the Grail. You can finally banish it."
-However, neither Lily nor Archer seem to be happy.
+However, neither she nor Archer seem to be happy.
-"What's wrong, Lily?"
+"What's wrong, Lilly?"
 "Archer, can you see the Grail?"
 "No, Master, I cannot".
-Lily frowns. "It's as I suspected".
+She frowns. "It's as I suspected".
 You notice that Archer hasn't unloaded his bow. He's now pointing it at you.
-"I am sorry John. I am afraid there's no other way".
+"I am sorry John. I am afraid there's no other way"
 Archer’s bow is pointed to you. He’s ready to fire at any second now.
 “What do you mean there’s no other way? Look, if it’s about me having Saber’s arm, I can just let it go” Living without an arm beats not living any day, although explaining why your arm disappeared can take a long time.
 “John, I’ve been meaning to tell you this for a while”
 You shake in fear. Whatever she is going to say it’s not going to be pretty.
 “Is this what you were trying to tell me earlier?”
 “Yes. It’s the reason why Archer’s bow is pointed at you. Harming a Master is strictly against the rules I swore to uphold. But the thing is, as Archer’s arrow will pierce your heart, you won’t die”.
 “Actually I think I will. People die when they’re killed, Lilly”.
 “Of course, this holds true with no exception. Which means you’re not people, Johnathan”.
 You don’t think this was meant as an insult, and you don’t perceive it as one either. You stay silent in the hope of learning more about what Lilly is talking about.
 “The Holy Grail is the result of a complicated and magic ritual, whose details we scarcely know. The fragments we have about the creation of it made me suspect it came from another universe. It’s the power of the Holy Grail that brings Heroic Spirits back to life from the Throne of Heroes. Such a power, however, is not unbounded”
 “Unbounded?”
 “Yes, even the Grail has limits, one of it being that it can’t manifest itself without a catalyst, a physical embodiment”.
 Slowly you start to make sense out of what she’s saying
 
 “So I am… And Saber was…” Another coughing fit has you bending on the ground. “What’s the deal with this black thing I am spitting? Is it blood?”
 “Yes, John. The Ichor of the Grail”.
 “How did you know it was me?”
 “Hanako described your physical traits to me. Red eyes, white hair”.
 “There’s a girl with those exact same traits in my class, why did you not suspect of her?”
 “She didn’t summon a Servant out of thin air with no real ritual, did she? John, you’re in pain. Let me end your suffering”.
 “Not before I get the explanations I deserve!”. You get back up not without a struggle. You can’t think straight anymore, in part for the pain you’re feeling, in part because of the shocking revelations you received.
 “How is this supposed to work anyway? How I am the Grail?”
 “You’re not exactly the Grail, you’re the Lesser Grail, a magical entity that gathers the energy from fallen Servants, and, once the collection is completed, summons the Greater Grail. It’s the Greater Grail that grants wishes, the Lesser Grail is its trigger. The advent of the Greater Grail will merge your consciousness to the Grail itself.. Letting you suffer through all of it would be cruel”
 “But what would happen to me once you’re done, once your masterplan comes together?”
 Lilly turns quiet. She joins her hands together, like in a prayer. She keeps that position with what feels like an eternity, especially with Archer’s arrow pointed at you.
 “You want to exile it, isn’t that right? I wouldn’t mind that. After all I promised Saber I would fix this reality”
 “Johnathan, throwing the Grail away will save this dimension, but it will merely condemn another”.
 You gnash your teeth in rage.
 “So that’s it. I have to die, and when I am one with the Grail, you will destroy me. That’s simply how it has to be. The unescapable Necessity”
 “John, this is painful for me. But I have to do this. Take the time you need, then give Archer the signal”.
 
 You look at Archer with defiance in your eyes.
 “I won’t go down without a fight. I have a right to live too”.
 “In this, you’re wrong. You’re an abomination, and my arrows will end your wretched existence”.
 Around your fingers, you can feel the handle of Ananke materializing. Without further ado, you rush at Archer, but your charge stops after just a couple of steps. Archer’s arrow pierced through the stomach, a pain so intense it makes you feel numb.
 The world around you is engulfed in darkness, as you close your eyes.
 When you open them, you’re in an open field, with Lilly’s arms wrapped tight around your body.
 Her head rests on your chest, and as you reciprocate the hug, you feel at peace with yourself and with the world.
 
 You can see Saber standing behind Lilly, his smile friendly and warm as usual.
 “Lovely memory, Hisao. I guess Lilly had better days too”.
 “She definitely had”.
 “Am I dead, Hisao?”
 “Do you want to be?”
 “No, I want to fight for my life”.
 Another smile. “Of course, you’re not the kind of person who gives up, are you? That’s to be expected from a person who befriended his former assailant”.
 “I wouldn’t have done it if it weren’t for you, Saber. You showed me for who she truly was”.
 “But you were kind enough to understand that, and to befriend Misha too. Don’t put yourself down, John. You’re a better person than you think. Now, let’s start”.
 He joins his hands and begins the chant. This is probably the last time you see him.
 "Wait Saber! Can you wait just for a while?"
 Hisao stops mid-chant, looking at you expectantly.
 "How do these... all these nice memories you have with the girls from our school, where do they come from?"
 "They exist within me, as a guardian of the continuum of this dimension. They all exist at the same time, but I can be in only one of them at a time. Good choices, bad choices: once I will turn into my old self, they will all lead me somewhere. I guess some bad choice could lead to my death falling from the rooftop. But it doesn't have to end this way".
 You enjoy the comfort of Lilly's hug for a few more seconds, a whirl of thoughts storming in your head.
 "Hisao... what if I am the anomaly?"
 Saber looks down, pondering on his answer.
 "I still wouldn't want you dead. When I was your Servant, I thought that there was nothing more than I hated than the anomaly. It took my place, and it took my life. But rooting the anomaly doesn't necessarily mean killing it. Maybe there are other dimension large enough to host you. That said, I trust you more than anybody else. If there's someone who can get things done right, that someone is you".
 His confident smile returns on his face. You had suicidal thoughts before. You considered just getting rid of your existence altogether. And yet you can't simply pretend that it didn't affect other people,sometimes for good,sometimes for bad.
 "Saber, I think I understand now"
 "Understand what?"
 "Your chant. It means that things will come and go, and that bad moments will come after good moments, and vice versa. But most of all, it means that all life is worth being lived until the end, until Necessity takes us out".
 Hisao nods slowly. "No exception, John"
 "No exception", you reply.
 
 A second later, you're in the running track again.
 Archer's arrow is still in your stomach,but you pull it out without flinching.
 "I am sorry Lilly. I think It will be harder to get rid of me".
 
 The words of the Reality Marble chant come to your lips naturally.
 As you recite them, they become much more than an empty mantra. Every single word gains a purpose, a meaning, and you gain a level of understanding you lacked this far.
 As Archer and Lilly get tangled in the wires that represent their connections to the others and the past, you take a step forward. Every wire is a different story, and yet you decide not to touch any of those who belong to Lilly. That would mean intruding into her inner sanctum, and no matter her attempts to kill you, there's just no need to do that. You do, however, peek into Archer's soul.
 
 A turbulent time for Christianity. The age of Persecutions unfolds, and those who believe in the message coming from Jesus are forced into hiding.
 You catch a glimpse of Archer's final moment: tied to a pole, archers aiming at his chest.
 "So this is how you became the Saint Protector of Archers. Isn't that so, Sebastian?"
 Archer is trapped in his connection wires, which tie him to the ground. "You could say so. But I am also the protector against epidemics, and you're just one more pest I will destroy".
 "It's a very powerful Servant, Lilly, You must have used a catalyst".
 "I have, John", she answers calmly. "You can see it hanging from my neck" she pulls a necklace with a cross-shaped charm from her shirt "This cross is a present from my parents. They had wished for an healthy daughter, but I was born blind. Since then, I was entrusted to the cares of Saint Sebastian".
 
 You could end this right here, right now, just stabbing Archer. But there's something else you need to know.
 "Why do you hate the Grail, Lilly?"
 Lilly seems surprised by your question.
 "I don't hate the Grail, John. YOU are the Grail, and I don't hate you"
 "But you attempted to kill me"
 "That wasn't driven by hate. It was driven by...necessity. John, you don't fit here. You don't fit anywhere. But that doesn't mean I hate you".
 "You're masquerading your contempt. Yours is not the disdain one feels when throwing the trash in the bin, nor is it the heavy burden of a human acting against her own will. You hate the Grail".
 You say that in a confident and definitive tone. Lilly, too, has to stop and consider the merits of your argument.
 "I guess I do hate the Grail. I hate it because it brings up the worst of every person. No one hesitated when they had to backstab their friends, no one but you was merciful to the defeated. The Grail is absolute power, and it corrupts absolutely"
 "With or without the Grail, human beings have always gone to great lengths to fulfill their desires. Humans can be despicable at times, I don't deny that. But it's only through hardship that you can prove your worth, it's only when something bad happens that you can prove to be a good person. It's only when you're afraid that you can really be brave.
 Lilly, desires are a part of human life. A painful one. You know this better than anyone else, pain is part of every human life. And yet, even if you destroyed the Grail, Humans will continue to yearn, and suffer. But that's what gives a meaning to life".
 She has been listening to you attentively, an hand covering her mouth. You didn't plan this speech, but you didn't improvise it. All those words were there, inside you, waiting to be let free. Your newfound clarity is like a breeze of fresh air while you were grasping for oxygen.
 
 Lily's hand raises, her palm facing you. With the use of a command spell, she breaks Archer free of his entanglement.
 "So be it, John. I will accept the outcome of this battle either way. But I don't want to give up just yet".
 
 Archer gets up quickly and reaches for his short sword
 His attack comes in a broad cleave, that you intercept with Ananke, just materialized in your hands. You strike back at full force, sending him to roll on the ground. He gets up, but you can see tiredness in his movements. The fight with Lancer must have worn him out. He materializes his bow in his hands, he loads and shoots faster than you'd think possible.
 
 You use the broad side of Ananke as cover, as his arrows crash against it and break down.
 "I must confess that I am impressed. Only Berserker's sword, the legendary Durendal, managed to break my arrows before. What is your sword made of?"
 "Nothing but unescapable necessity".
 You lunge at him, but he dodges the attack quite expertly. You're overextended, and he exploits the situation by stabbing your leg with his gladius. You scream in pain and back off.
 
 Both you and him are worn at this point. You can feel the ichor flow from your stomach and from your leg. One last strike.
 You feint on the left, and Archer falls for it. WIth one final lunge, you pierce through his armor and through his heart.
 He lays on the ground, his forces abandoning him. You can feel his energy being collected by the Lesser Grail inside of you.
 
 "Forgive me, Master. It was my task to watch over you since when you were a toddler. I have always failed".
 Lilly turns towards Archer. "You didn't. You tried your best. Not all struggles can be won, especially if you fight against Necessity".
 Archer smiles one last time, aware that his Master can't see his final moments.
 "Take care, miss Satou. You will always be in my prayers"
 "Farewell, Sebastian".
 The golden haze surrounding Archer disappears with him. It's only you and Lilly left in the running track, with Shizune watching the scene from a distance.
 "How much time do we have until the Grail overtakes me?", you ask hesitantly.
 "Not much. Maybe half an hour. Why?"
 
 "I was meaning to ask you:Why do you hate Shizune?"
 Lilly lets out a muffled laughter. "This is what concerns you moments before your death?"
 "Well, I am not going to be dead forever. I mean, just until I get to the next dimension. Still I would like to leave knowing the full story"
 "It's really nothing, John. I used to be part of the Student Council too. Me and Shizune just had diverging opinions on how things should be handled. All in all, I don't have bad feelings against my cousin"
 "Your cousin?" you ask in disbelief.
 "Indeed. We're family. But I guess families quarrel too, don't they? Anyway that doesn't matter anymore. Is there anything else you'd like to tell me?"
 You lie on the ground of the running track, your face staring at the clouds above, as you feel the ichor flow through your wounds.
 "When Archer hit me earlier... I saw Hisao again"
 "Oh."
 "Whenever I see him, he shows me memories of possible futures. Last time, it was you and him, I mean, me and you and, argh... it's complicated"
 "No need to panic, John. Describe it in your own words".
 "Well it was me, occupying Hisao's body. But we were hugging in an open field. It felt...nice"
 She seems to be taken by surprise, and blushes. Maybe Misha was right after all.
 "Look, I don't mean to make you uncomfortable. I am just saying that it was good feeling. If I wasn't oozing black fluids and if it weren't time to go for me, I would have liked to give you one last hug".
 "You have a soft spot for the people who hate you, don't you John?"
 "I don't. I guess we're just different. I try to see the good things in the humans surrounding me".
 Lily smiles. "I would like to give you that hug very much, but I guess my legs won't allow me"
 "No need to strain yourself', you say, feeling your senses abandon you.
 "Farewell, Lily".
 
 
 You lose consciousness, the last thing you see is a golden cup floating above you.
 Then, you wake up again. Around you is total blackness, like in Saber's Reality Marble, except that no cables seem to be around you.
 You try to get up, but fall down on your back. You try once more, and your head spins for the effort. Then, when your eyes finally focus again, you see her.
 In front of you, a girl, not older than yourself, with platinum blonde hair and red eyes, is staring back at you.
 She smiles with what seems to be pure joy.
 "Welcome back, Brother! I had missed you!"