ayan chal 2

2

clapping slowly. "Impressive performance from both of you. I've rarely seen a human keep pace with a Servant for that long, especially one as agile as Medusa."

Ayanokouji inclined his head slightly in acknowledgment. "Medusa-san was clearly holding back."

"Not as much as you might think," the Lancer replied, her golden lance materializing in her hand as she twirled it with casual grace. Though blindfolded, her posture betrayed a newfound respect. "I haven't had a Master capable of tracking my movements before. Most can barely see me once I reach full speed."

EMIYA crossed his arms, his steel-gray eyes narrowed suspiciously. "Your reflexes exceed normal human parameters. Even for a first-rate magus."

"I specialized in physical enhancement magecraft," Ayanokouji explained smoothly. "Body reinforcement, neural acceleration, that sort of thing."

"Still," Da Vinci mused, "to maintain that level of enhancement throughout a prolonged engagement without visible strain on your magical circuits..." She smiled brilliantly. "You simply must let me run some tests on you sometime!"

"Perhaps later," he deflected politely. "I believe Dr. Roman wanted to brief us on the next Singularity."

"Oh! That's right," Ritsuka remembered. "He said it would be ready this afternoon."

As they made their way toward the command center, Medusa fell into step beside Ayanokouji, her voice pitched low enough that only he could hear.

"You weren't using magecraft during our match," she stated matter-of-factly. "At least, not any conventional form I recognize."

"Oh?" he replied noncommittally.

"No activation sequences. No mana fluctuations. No circuit strain." She tapped her blindfold. "These eyes see what others cannot. You moved like... like something natural. Something innate."

Ayanokouji considered her words. Having a Servant suspicious of his abilities could be problematic, but Medusa's perception might also make her a valuable ally. He decided on a calculated partial truth.

"You're correct," he admitted quietly. "My abilities aren't conventional magecraft. I would appreciate your discretion on the matter—for now."

Rather than press further, Medusa simply nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "Your secrets remain yours, Master. We monsters understand the value of maintaining... appearances."

In the command center, Roman waited with several holographic displays active around him. The main screen showed a map of France circa the 15th century, with several areas highlighted in alarming red.

"Ah, there you are!" Roman greeted them. "We've finally pinpointed the next Singularity—France, 1431, around the conclusion of the Hundred Years' War."

"The year Joan of Arc was executed," Ayanokouji noted.

"Precisely," Roman confirmed. "But our readings indicate something is very wrong with that timeline. The war isn't ending as it should, and there's a massive spike in magical energy centered around Orleans."

"Joan of Arc," Mash said thoughtfully. "A Ruler-class Servant in the proper summoning system. Could she be involved somehow?"

Roman manipulated the holographic display, zooming in on Orleans. "That's our working theory. This Singularity is significantly larger than Fuyuki—spanning most of northern France. You'll need to investigate multiple locations to understand what's happening."

"Will we all go?" Ritsuka asked, glancing at Ayanokouji.

"That's the plan," Roman nodded. "As our only two active Masters, you'll both deploy with your Servants. Mash will accompany you as well, of course."

Da Vinci stepped forward, presenting two sleek devices resembling smartphones. "These are enhanced communicators I've designed. They'll maintain your connection to Chaldea even through the Singularity's distortions. They also function as data collectors, scanning and analyzing magical signatures you encounter."

As preparations continued, the group split into smaller conversations. Ritsuka and Mash discussed tactical considerations with EMIYA, while Roman and Da Vinci debated technical aspects of the upcoming Rayshift.

Medusa approached Ayanokouji, her lance resting casually over one shoulder. Despite her blindfold, she oriented herself perfectly toward him.

"Tell me, Master," she began, her voice carrying a hint of amusement, "why does someone with your... capabilities... choose to hide among humans? You could simply take what you want."

"Taking is easy," he replied. "Understanding is more valuable."

She laughed softly. "How philosophical. Though I suspect there's more to it than that."

Before he could respond, Roman called everyone's attention back to the main display.

"One more thing before you depart," he said, his expression serious. "We've detected multiple Servant signatures throughout this Singularity—far more than should be possible in that era. Someone or something is mass-producing Servants, which should be theoretically impossible without a Greater Grail."

"Could that be the source of the distortion?" Mash asked.

"Likely," Roman agreed. "Your primary objective will be to locate the Holy Grail sustaining this Singularity, but gathering intelligence on these Servant manifestations is equally important."

"When do we leave?" Ritsuka asked, a new determination in her voice that hadn't been there before Fuyuki.

"The Rayshift system is ready whenever you are," Roman answered. "Though I suggest taking a few hours to finalize preparations. This mission will be more complex than Fuyuki."

As the briefing concluded, Ayanokouji found himself approached by EMIYA, who had deliberately waited until the others had moved away.

"A word," the Archer said, his tone making it clear this wasn't a request.

They moved to a quiet corner of the command center, EMIYA's posture tense despite his outwardly casual stance.

"I've encountered many types of magi in my existence," he began without preamble. "Geniuses, prodigies, experimenters, traditionalists. But none move the way you do."

"Is that a compliment?" Ayanokouji asked mildly.

EMIYA's eyes narrowed. "It's an observation. Fujimaru is naive, and the Doctor is too overwhelmed with keeping Chaldea functioning to look closely. But I've seen too much to ignore the obvious."

"And what, exactly, is obvious?"

"That you're dangerous," EMIYA stated flatly. "Not necessarily to us—at least not yet—but dangerous nonetheless. Your movements, your reactions, the way you assess situations... those aren't the habits of a researcher or academic magus. They're the instincts of a predator."

Ayanokouji regarded the Archer thoughtfully. EMIYA was more perceptive than he had anticipated—a potential complication.

"We're trying to save human history," he replied eventually. "Wouldn't you prefer an ally with the capabilities to succeed?"

"Depends on why they're helping," EMIYA countered. "My Master may be inexperienced, but her intentions are transparent. Yours..." He shook his head. "Just know that I'll be watching."

"Fair enough," Ayanokouji nodded. "Though I suggest focusing your attention on our enemies rather than potential allies."

As EMIYA walked away, Ayanokouji considered the interaction. The Archer's suspicion was inconvenient but not unexpected. Counter Guardians were, by nature, attuned to existential threats. EMIYA's instincts were simply responding to the latent power of the Dominion Genesis System.

Rather than concerning himself with the Archer's suspicions, Ayanokouji turned his attention to more practical matters. The France Singularity would be his first opportunity to observe how multiple Servants interacted within a distorted timeline—valuable data for his ongoing assessment of Chaldea's capabilities.

Three hours later, the team assembled in the Rayshift chamber. Coffin-like devices lined the walls, though only two were currently active—those assigned to Ritsuka and Ayanokouji.

"Remember," Roman instructed from the control platform, "this Singularity is significantly larger than Fuyuki. You'll need to establish a base camp and conduct proper reconnaissance before confronting whatever is causing the distortion."

"We've programmed the Rayshift to deliver you just outside Orleans," Da Vinci added. "It's likely the epicenter of the anomaly, but hopefully far enough from immediate danger to allow you to orient yourselves."

Ritsuka adjusted her Chaldea uniform nervously. Despite her successful return from Fuyuki, she still found the Rayshift process unnerving. Beside her, EMIYA materialized, having been in spirit form.

"Relax," the Archer advised. "Tensing your body makes the transition more uncomfortable."

"Right," she nodded, taking a deep breath. "Just turn into spiritrons and travel hundreds of years into the past. Totally normal."

Ayanokouji observed their interaction while conducting his own preparations. Medusa stood nearby, her lance resting against one shoulder. Unlike EMIYA, she preferred to remain physically manifested whenever possible—a trait typical of Servants with monstrous aspects, who often found spirit form disagreeable.

"Excited, Master?" she asked, noting his contemplative expression.

"Curious," he corrected. "Each Singularity represents a unique distortion of causality. The mechanisms involved are... academically interesting."

She laughed softly. "Such a scholarly perspective on the end of the world."

Before he could respond, Roman's voice came over the intercom. "Rayshift commencing in thirty seconds. Please enter your assigned coffins."

As they took their positions, Mash approached Ritsuka with a reassuring smile. "We'll be right beside you, Senpai. Just like in Fuyuki."

"Thanks, Mash," Ritsuka replied gratefully. "I'm counting on you."

The coffin lids closed, and the familiar blue light of the Rayshift process began to envelop them. Unlike the chaotic emergency Rayshift to Fuyuki, this transition proceeded smoothly—a controlled dissolution of physical form into spiritrons, followed by the sensation of hurtling through a tunnel of light and information.

Ayanokouji used the transition time to activate a small portion of his Azathoth Authority, analyzing the Rayshift process from within. The technology was primitive compared to his capabilities but impressive for human achievement—essentially creating a controlled quantum tunnel through established reality to access divergent timelines.

The journey ended with a gentle materialization rather than the abrupt arrival they had experienced in Fuyuki. When Ayanokouji opened his eyes, he found himself standing on a grassy hillside overlooking a medieval French countryside. The sun was setting, casting long shadows across fields and forests that stretched toward a distant walled city—Orleans.

Medusa materialized beside him, her lance already in hand as she surveyed their surroundings. "No immediate threats," she reported. "Though there's a strange magical signature permeating the area—heavier than normal ambient mana."

Nearby, Ritsuka materialized with Mash and EMIYA. The young woman staggered slightly before finding her balance.

"That was... much smoother than last time," she observed with relief.

"Planned Rayshifts generally are," Mash explained. "The emergency shift to Fuyuki was a special case."

EMIYA materialized his bow, scanning the horizon with enhanced vision. "There's smoke rising from several villages to the east. Recent destruction, within the last day or two."

"Dr. Roman?" Ritsuka spoke into her communicator. "Can you hear us?"

After a moment of static, Roman's voice came through clearly. "Loud and clear! The connection is stable. How's everything on your end?"

"We've arrived safely," she reported. "Though EMIYA says there are signs of attacked villages nearby."

"That aligns with our historical data," Roman confirmed. "The anomaly readings suggest widespread devastation throughout this region—far beyond the historical damage of the Hundred Years' War."

Ayanokouji surveyed the landscape methodically, noting defensive positions, terrain advantages, and potential routes toward Orleans. The medieval setting was primitive but had its own strategic complexities.

"We should establish a base camp before nightfall," he suggested. "Preferably somewhere defensible with good visibility."

"There's a small forest about a half-mile north," EMIYA pointed. "Elevated ground, clear sightlines to Orleans, adequate cover."

"That works," Ritsuka nodded. "Let's move before it gets completely dark."

As they made their way toward the forest, Medusa suddenly tensed, her lance shifting to a combat position.

"Someone's watching us," she stated with absolute certainty. "Northwest, approximately two hundred meters."

EMIYA nocked an arrow, aiming in the indicated direction. "I see them. A lone figure, partially concealed in the treeline."

"Hostile?" Mash asked, moving protectively in front of Ritsuka.

"Unclear," the Archer replied. "They haven't made any aggressive movements."

Ayanokouji considered their options. "Confrontation may be inevitable. Better to control the engagement than be ambushed later."

"Agreed," EMIYA nodded. "I'll approach from the flank. Medusa can cover the opposite side. Mash, protect Ritsuka and Ayanokouji in case it's a diversion."

"I don't need protection," Ayanokouji noted mildly, though he allowed the tactical arrangement to proceed.

As EMIYA and Medusa moved to encircle the observer, a figure emerged from the trees with hands raised in a universal gesture of peace. It was a woman with short silver hair, wearing armor reminiscent of a French knight but with distinctly non-period elements.

"Wait!" she called in accented Japanese, which the group understood thanks to Chaldea's translation protocols. "I'm not your enemy! I've been waiting for you!"

EMIYA kept his bow trained on her. "Identify yourself."

"My name is Jeanne d'Arc," she replied. "The real one, not the monster destroying this country. And you must be the agents of Chaldea I foresaw in my vision."

Chapter 5: Saints and Monsters

Ritsuka gasped. "Jeanne d'Arc? The actual Saint Jeanne?"

"I am no saint," the woman corrected gently as she approached, hands still raised. "Merely a servant of God who has been summoned to correct a grave distortion in this land."

EMIYA lowered his bow slightly but remained vigilant. "You're a Servant. Ruler class, if I'm not mistaken."

Jeanne nodded. "Yes. Normally, Rulers are summoned only to oversee proper Holy Grail Wars. But this..." she gestured toward Orleans, where distant plumes of smoke rose against the darkening sky, "this corruption required direct intervention."

Medusa circled back to Ayanokouji's side, her lance still ready. "She's telling the truth about being Jeanne d'Arc," she confirmed. "But there's something unusual about her manifestation. It's... incomplete."

"Incomplete?" Ayanokouji inquired.

Jeanne sighed. "Your Servant is perceptive. Yes, I was summoned improperly—without a Master or proper anchor. My powers are diminished, and I lack some of my Noble Phantasms."

"You mentioned 'the monster destroying this country'," Mash recalled. "What did you mean by that?"

Jeanne's expression darkened. "That is why I've been waiting for allies. This Singularity has been created by... another version of myself. A corrupted, twisted version that calls herself 'Jeanne Alter.' She has somehow summoned multiple Servants and is systematically destroying France, village by village, city by city."

"Another version of you?" Ritsuka looked confused. "How is that possible?"

"We encountered something similar in Fuyuki," Ayanokouji reminded her. "The corrupted Saber was a distorted version of her true heroic spirit."

"This is different," Jeanne shook her head. "This isn't merely corruption—it's as if someone created an entirely opposite version of me. Where I sought to save France, she seeks to destroy it. Where I forgave my executioners, she burns with vengeance."

EMIYA finally lowered his bow completely. "A manifested shadow—the darkness within a heroic spirit given form and autonomy. It shouldn't be possible without a Greater Grail or similar-level artifact."

"Which suggests our corrupted Holy Grail is involved," Ayanokouji concluded.

"Let's continue this conversation at camp," Ritsuka suggested, noting the rapidly fading daylight. "We'll be vulnerable out in the open once night falls."

With Jeanne now accompanying them, they resumed their journey to the forest EMIYA had identified. The Ruler kept a respectful distance from the group, clearly aware of their lingering suspicion. Only Ritsuka made efforts to engage her directly, asking questions about her experiences since being summoned to this distorted timeline.

"I arrived approximately one week ago," Jeanne explained as they walked. "By then, the Dragon Witch—that's what my alter version calls herself—had already destroyed several southern towns and was marching toward Orleans."

"Dragon Witch?" Mash echoed.

"She commands dragons," Jeanne clarified grimly. "Creatures that shouldn't exist in this era or any other since the Age of Gods. Somehow, she's manifested them as familiars or lesser phantasmal beasts."

Ayanokouji absorbed this information with interest. The manipulation of mythological beings across timelines represented a significant distortion of proper history—even beyond what they had witnessed in Fuyuki.

They reached the forested area as night fell completely. EMIYA quickly scouted a suitable clearing while Mash and Ritsuka gathered firewood. Ayanokouji observed as Medusa established a perimeter, moving with impressive speed to set up what appeared to be magical tripwires—thin strands of mana that would alert them to any approach.

"Your Servant is quite capable," Jeanne commented, coming to stand beside him. "Medusa as a Lancer is an unusual manifestation."

"She suits my needs," he replied simply.

Jeanne studied him with piercing blue eyes. Unlike EMIYA's suspicious assessment or Medusa's amused curiosity, the Ruler's gaze held something closer to compassionate concern.

"You carry a heavy burden," she observed softly. "Something beyond this mission."

Ayanokouji met her gaze impassively. "We all have our purposes."

"Indeed," she nodded. "Though not all purposes are what they initially appear to be."

Before he could respond to this cryptic statement, EMIYA returned to the clearing. "The area is secure. This position gives us good visibility toward Orleans while providing adequate cover."

Once camp was established and a small fire built, the group gathered to develop their strategy. Roman and Da Vinci joined via holographic communication from Ayanokouji's device.

"Historical records show Jeanne d'Arc was executed in Rouen in 1431," Roman explained, consulting a database. "But in this Singularity, it seems an alternate version has emerged with the power to summon Servants and phantasmal beasts."

"Have you encountered any of these Servants directly?" Da Vinci asked Jeanne.

The Ruler nodded grimly. "Five that I've confirmed. Vlad III, Elizabeth Bathory, Carmilla, Sanson, and Gilles de Rais—the latter serves as her most loyal general."

"All figures associated with blood or execution," Ayanokouji noted. "Thematically consistent with vengeance."

"There are likely others I haven't seen directly," Jeanne added. "Her army grows larger each day."

"What about ordinary humans?" Ritsuka asked. "Are there resistance forces?"

"Few remain in this region," Jeanne replied sadly. "Those who haven't fled have mostly been killed. However, I've heard rumors of a group led by a young man calling himself 'the Mozart of the battlefield'—a peculiar title that made me wonder if another Servant might be operating independently."

"Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart?" Da Vinci looked intrigued. "How fascinating! He wasn't born until the 18th century, so his presence here would definitely be another anomaly."

"First priority should be reconnaissance," EMIYA suggested. "We need to verify the Dragon Witch's position and force distribution before engaging."

"Agreed," Mash nodded. "We should also try to locate any surviving local resistance. They might provide valuable intelligence about enemy movements."

As the discussion continued, Ayanokouji noted Medusa standing at the perimeter, her posture alert. He joined her, following her blindfolded gaze toward the distant horizon.

"Something troubles you," he observed.

"This Singularity..." she began, her voice low. "The ambient mana is tainted. It reminds me of..." she hesitated, "of the curse that transformed my sisters and me from divine beings to monsters."

"You sense a similar corruption here?"

She nodded. "Not identical, but familiar in its... intent. This isn't merely history gone wrong. Something is actively feeding on the distortion, growing stronger from the chaos."

Ayanokouji considered this insight. Through his own senses, he had detected the unusual magical signature permeating the area, but Medusa's personal experience with divine corruption added a valuable perspective.

"Keep monitoring it," he instructed. "Your sensitivity to this particular form of corruption may provide important insights."

When they returned to the group, plans were being finalized for the following day.

"We'll split into two teams," Ritsuka was saying. "Mash, EMIYA and I will approach from the east, investigating reports of survivors in this village." She pointed to a location on the map Da Vinci had provided. "Ayanokouji-san, you, Medusa and Jeanne can approach from the west to gather intelligence on the Dragon Witch's forces."

"A sound strategy," Jeanne agreed. "Though we should establish a rendezvous point in case either team encounters overwhelming opposition."

After settling these final details, the group prepared for the night. Servants required minimal rest, so EMIYA and Medusa volunteered to maintain watch while the humans slept. Jeanne offered to join them, though her diminished state meant she required some rest as well.

As Ritsuka and Mash settled near the fire, Ayanokouji positioned himself against a tree at the camp's edge, maintaining the appearance of seeking rest while actually entering a meditative state to process the day's information.

He had nearly completed his analysis when a soft voice interrupted his thoughts.

"May I join you?"

He opened his eyes to find Jeanne standing before him, her expression thoughtful in the moonlight that filtered through the trees.

"Of course," he replied, gesturing to a spot nearby.

She sat gracefully, arranging her armor with practiced ease. For several moments, she simply gazed toward Orleans, her profile illuminated by distant fires that shouldn't have existed in proper history.

"When I was alive," she finally spoke, "I believed absolutely in divine guidance. Every action, every decision was made in service to a higher purpose." She turned to him. "Do you believe in higher purposes, Ayanokouji-san?"

"I believe in purposes," he answered carefully. "Their height is relative to one's perspective."

A small smile touched her lips. "A diplomatic answer. But I sense you do have a purpose here that extends beyond Chaldea's mission."

Instead of denying this accurate observation, he redirected. "What makes you think so?"

"I was granted the skill of discernment as a Ruler-class Servant," she explained. "Even in my diminished state, I can sense things about those I encounter—not specific thoughts or memories, but intentions, alignments, natures." Her blue eyes studied him with gentle intensity. "Your nature is... unique. Neither aligned with traditional concepts of good nor evil, but something... transcendent."

Ayanokouji maintained his neutral expression, though inwardly he noted that Jeanne's abilities made her potentially more problematic than EMIYA's suspicions. The Archer could only observe behavior; Jeanne could sense underlying truths.

"And what does your discernment tell you about my intentions?" he asked.

"That's what fascinates me," she admitted. "They remain opaque, which shouldn't be possible. It's as if..." she searched for words, "as if you exist partially outside the framework my abilities were designed to assess."

Before she could elaborate further, Medusa approached from the perimeter, her lance materializing in her hand.

"Movement to the northwest," she reported tensely. "Multiple signatures approaching rapidly."

EMIYA was already alert, his bow manifested. "Dragons," he confirmed grimly. "At least three, with riders."

Ritsuka and Mash woke immediately at the commotion.

"How far?" Ayanokouji asked, rising smoothly to his feet.

"Two minutes, maybe less," EMIYA replied.

"They must have spotted our fire," Jeanne concluded, drawing her sword. "The Dragon Witch's scouts."

Ritsuka quickly took charge. "EMIYA, take position in that tall oak for ranged support. Mash and I will form the center. Jeanne, can you support our flank? Ayanokouji-san and Medusa can take the other side."

Everyone moved to their positions as the sound of massive wings beating the air grew louder. Through the darkness came three serpentine forms, each easily the size of a bus, with armored riders mounted on their backs. The dragons' scales gleamed like obsidian in the moonlight, while

their eyes burned with an unnatural crimson light.

"Hold positions," Ritsuka commanded, her voice steady despite the terrifying sight. "EMIYA, can you identify the riders?"

The Archer narrowed his eyes from his elevated position. "Wyverns, not true dragons. The riders appear to be animated armor—constructs rather than living soldiers."

An arrow of light materialized in EMIYA's bow and shot toward the lead wyvern. The projectile split into three mid-flight, each striking with perfect precision. The lead beast roared in pain but continued its approach.

"Tough scales," EMIYA called. "Standard attacks won't penetrate easily."

"Aim for the wing joints!" Jeanne shouted. "Their armor is weaker there!"

As the wyverns descended toward the clearing, Mash stepped forward, shield raised. "Stay behind me, Senpai!"

The first wyvern crashed against Mash's shield like a battering ram, the impact driving her boots into the soil. Despite the tremendous force, her defense held firm, the shield glowing with a soft blue light.

"Lord Chaldeas!" she cried, activating her Noble Phantasm defensively. The shield's barrier expanded, repelling the wyvern and sending it tumbling back.

On the opposite flank, Medusa faced the second wyvern with fluid grace. As the beast lunged with gaping jaws, she became a blur of motion, her golden lance striking with precision at the vulnerable points Jeanne had identified.

"These are but shadows of true phantasmal beasts," she observed, voice calm despite the ferocity of her attacks. "Pale imitations created through the Grail's corruption."

The wyvern howled as Medusa's lance pierced through a joint in its neck scales, black ichor spraying from the wound. With impossible agility, she leapt onto its back, dispatching the armored rider with a single thrust before driving her lance into the base of the creature's skull.

Meanwhile, Ayanokouji faced the third wyvern with calculated precision. To maintain his cover, he wielded what appeared to be a simple combat baton—in reality, a manifestation of his Dominion Vault in a limited form.

The wyvern exhaled a stream of black fire toward him. Rather than dodging completely, he sidestepped just enough for the flames to miss by centimeters, making the evasion appear skilled but human.

"Ayanokouji-san!" Ritsuka called in alarm, clearly concerned by his seemingly reckless approach.

He ignored the call, measuring the wyvern's attack patterns. After dodging three consecutive strikes, he identified the optimal moment to counter. As the beast lunged forward, jaws open to devour him, Ayanokouji struck with surgical precision at a point just beneath its jaw.

To observers, it would appear he had hit a pressure point or weak spot with exceptional skill. In reality, his strike carried a fragment of his Existence Rewrite ability, disrupting the magical construct that animated the wyvern. The creature's movements instantly became erratic, its coordination failing as its rider struggled to maintain control.

Taking advantage of this opening, Jeanne leapt forward, her sword plunging into the disoriented wyvern's eye. "For France!" she cried as the blade sank deep, causing the beast to collapse in a writhing heap.

Within minutes, all three wyverns lay dead, their bodies already beginning to dissolve into black mist—further evidence of their unnatural origin.

"Is everyone alright?" Ritsuka asked, scanning the group for injuries.

"Unharmed," Mash reported, though her breathing was slightly labored from the effort of blocking the wyvern's charge.

"That was merely a scouting party," Jeanne warned, cleaning her blade. "The Dragon Witch will know we're here now. We should relocate immediately."

"Agreed," EMIYA said, descending from his position. "There's another defensible location about two miles east—a small church on elevated ground. Less visible than this clearing."

As they gathered their minimal supplies, Ayanokouji examined the dissolving remains of the wyverns with academic interest. He collected a small sample of the black ichor in a vial, ostensibly for analysis by Chaldea.

Medusa approached, lance still in hand. "Those creatures weren't merely corrupted," she observed. "They were fundamentally wrong—existing outside their proper time and form."

"Yes," he agreed. "The distortion here is more sophisticated than what we encountered in Fuyuki. Someone is not just altering history but rewriting the rules of manifestation."

"Your strike against the wyvern," she noted quietly. "That wasn't a normal attack, was it?"

"A targeted disruption of its magical structure," he explained, offering another calculated partial truth. "The constructs have flaws that can be exploited if you know where to look."

Her lips curved in a knowing smile. "Of course. How... observant of you."

They traveled through the night, avoiding open terrain as they made their way to the church EMIYA had identified. The stone building sat atop a small hill, its bell tower offering an excellent vantage point over the surrounding countryside. Though partially damaged, its walls remained intact enough to provide shelter.

"Perfect," Ritsuka approved as they approached. "EMIYA, can you take first watch from the tower? I want to contact Dr. Roman with an update."

While Ritsuka established communication with Chaldea, Ayanokouji explored the church's interior. The building was simple—a single nave with wooden pews, most now splintered or overturned, and a small altar area. Religious iconography had been defaced or destroyed, suggesting the Dragon Witch's forces had already visited this location.

Jeanne stood before the damaged altar, her expression sorrowful as she traced the broken crucifix with gentle fingers.

"She desecrates holy sites deliberately," she observed as Ayanokouji approached. "Not from strategic necessity but from hatred."

"Your counterpart seems determined to erase every symbol of the faith you died for," he noted.

Jeanne nodded solemnly. "That is what troubles me most. I accepted my death, forgave my executioners. How could any version of me harbor such vengeful hatred?"

"Perhaps she's not truly you," Ayanokouji suggested. "But rather someone's idealized version of what you might have become had you chosen vengeance over forgiveness."

She looked at him with renewed interest. "An insightful observation. You believe she might be a constructed entity rather than a true aspect of my spirit?"

"It's a possibility worth considering," he replied. "The Holy Grail can manifest wishes, even unconscious ones. Someone with sufficient hatred toward France and fixation on your story might have created this 'Dragon Witch' as a perversion of your legacy."

"Gilles," Jeanne whispered, realization dawning. "My loyal commander, Gilles de Rais. History records that after my execution, he fell into madness and committed terrible atrocities."

"And now he serves as her general," Ayanokouji confirmed. "The connection seems evident."

Their conversation was interrupted as Mash entered the church, carrying supplies provided by Chaldea through a minor materialization process.

"Dr. Roman says we should rest while we can," she reported. "Based on the wyvern patterns, we're likely to face increased patrols by morning."

"Did you manage to analyze the sample?" Ayanokouji inquired.

Mash nodded. "Da Vinci says it's definitely not natural. The wyverns are magical constructs created using the Holy Grail's power, but with an unusual signature she hasn't seen before. She's continuing to analyze it."

As night deepened, the group established a rotation for watch duty. When Ayanokouji's turn came, he positioned himself in the bell tower alongside Medusa, who had insisted on accompanying him despite not being scheduled.

"You don't require rest?" he asked, though he already knew the answer.

"Servants need far less than humans," she replied, perching gracefully on the stone parapet. "Besides, I find the night... comforting."

They maintained a companionable silence for some time, scanning the darkened countryside for signs of enemy movement. From this vantage point, Orleans was clearly visible on the horizon, illuminated by what appeared to be massive bonfires within its walls.

"She burns her own capital," Medusa observed. "Such hatred must have a deeper source than mere historical grievance."

"Most hatred does," Ayanokouji agreed.

After another period of silence, Medusa spoke again, her tone more personal than before. "You never answered my question from earlier. Why does someone with your power choose to hide among humans?"

Ayanokouji considered how much to reveal. Medusa had already discerned more than most, and her nature as a being who straddled the line between divine and monstrous gave her a unique perspective.

"Have you ever played a game where you knew every possible move and outcome?" he asked finally.

"No," she answered. "Even with my divine heritage, I've never experienced such perfect foreknowledge."

"It removes all purpose," he explained. "If you already know every result, why play at all? But if you impose limitations, create rules for yourself, the game regains some measure of interest."

Medusa turned toward him, her blindfolded face somehow still conveying perfect understanding. "So we are your self-imposed game? Your voluntary limitation?"

"Not exactly," he replied. "This world, these conflicts—they present patterns and possibilities I find academically interesting. I could resolve them directly, but that would eliminate the opportunity to observe how they unfold naturally."

"The cold curiosity of a god," she mused, though without judgment. "I've encountered it before, from both sides."

"I'm not a god," he corrected.

"No," she agreed with a small smile. "You're something else entirely. Something even the gods might fear, if they still walked the Earth."

Their conversation was interrupted by movement in the distance—a single figure approaching on foot, too small to be a wyvern rider.

"Human," Medusa confirmed, her enhanced senses detecting details invisible to normal perception. "Male, young, carrying what appears to be... a staff or conductor's baton?"

"Interesting," Ayanokouji remarked. "Perhaps our rumored 'Mozart of the battlefield' has found us."

He descended to alert the others while Medusa maintained her watch. By the time the stranger reached the church grounds, everyone was prepared—EMIYA with bow ready, Mash with shield raised, and Jeanne with sword drawn but held non-threateningly.

The figure that stepped into the moonlight was indeed a young man with flowing white hair and an elegant, somewhat flamboyant outfit more suited to a concert hall than a battlefield. He carried what appeared to be a conductor's baton and walked with the confident stride of someone unconcerned by potential danger.

"Greetings, visitors from another time!" he called cheerfully. "I thought I might find you here after hearing rumors of strange warriors defeating wyverns without dragon-slaying weapons."

"Identify yourself," EMIYA demanded, arrow still nocked.

The man bowed with theatrical flourish. "Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, at your service! Though in this peculiar Holy Grail War gone wrong, I suppose I'm technically 'Caster Mozart.' But please, just Mozart will do."

Ritsuka stepped forward cautiously. "You're a Servant? But you're not with the Dragon Witch?"

"Heavens, no!" Mozart looked genuinely offended. "That tone-deaf harridan and her draconic orchestra? Pure cacophony! No rhythm, no harmony, just mindless destruction." He made a dismissive gesture. "I much prefer the resistance's composition—understated, perhaps, but with such authentic emotional resonance!"

"The resistance," Jeanne repeated eagerly. "Then there are still French forces fighting?"

"Indeed!" Mozart confirmed. "Led by a rather strapping young general named Marie Antoinette—though of course that's not her real name either. She's the Rider-class Servant who's been protecting the local population."

"Marie Antoinette?" Mash looked confused. "But she wasn't born until centuries later, and she wasn't a military leader."

Mozart shrugged elegantly. "This Singularity plays by its own rules, my dear. Historical accuracy seems to be the least of its concerns. Now, might I inquire who you all might be? Other than the obvious Ruler-class Jeanne d'Arc, whom I recognized immediately."

After brief introductions, during which Mozart reacted with particular interest to learning they were from Chaldea, the Caster explained that he had been sent to find them.

"Marie sensed your arrival yesterday," he explained. "Not many new players enter the stage this late in the performance. She believed you might be allies against the Dragon Witch and asked me to extend an invitation to our humble resistance headquarters."

"Where is this headquarters?" Ayanokouji inquired.

"A small castle about ten miles south," Mozart replied. "Fortified, hidden by my illusions, and reasonably comfortable, all things considered. We have approximately five hundred civilian refugees and a small force of soldiers who survived the initial assaults."

Ritsuka and Ayanokouji exchanged glances, silently conferring.

"This aligns with our reconnaissance objectives," Ayanokouji noted. "And may provide valuable intelligence."

"Plus, helping the resistance is the right thing to do," Ritsuka added with characteristic sincerity.

Decision made, they gathered their supplies and prepared to follow Mozart. The Caster created a magical barrier that he claimed would mask their movements from wyvern scouts, though Ayanokouji noted the spell was more theatrics than substance.

As they traveled through the pre-dawn darkness, Mozart regaled them with stories of the resistance's efforts and his own musical battles against the Dragon Witch's forces.

"My Noble Phantasm turns music into a weapon," he explained proudly. "Not as brutally efficient as your Archer's arrows or the lovely Medusa's lance, but it has its uses—particularly in confusing those dreadfully tone-deaf wyverns."

"How exactly does one fight with music?" Ritsuka asked, genuinely curious.

Mozart grinned. "Allow me to demonstrate on a small scale." He raised his baton and made a delicate gesture. Instantly, soft music filled the air around them—a complex melody that seemed to solidify into barely visible patterns.

"Sound waves reinforced with magical energy," he explained as the patterns formed a protective dome around their group. "Properly composed, they can become barriers, weapons, or in this case, a perception filter that makes us significantly harder to detect."

Ayanokouji observed the spell with academic interest. While rudimentary compared to his own capabilities, Mozart's manipulation of sound as both art and weapon represented a creative application of magecraft.

"Most impressive," he acknowledged.

Mozart beamed at the praise before turning to Jeanne. "I must say, it's quite the honor to meet the real Jeanne d'Arc. Your counterpart has made quite the impression on this era—though not the kind one would hope for."

Jeanne's expression darkened. "What exactly has she done? Beyond summoning wyverns and attacking villages?"

Mozart's perpetual smile faltered. "You may not wish to know the details. Let's just say she's determined to inflict on France the same suffering she believes France inflicted on her. Every town that falls is... well, the results would make even the most hardened warrior blanch."

"I need to know," Jeanne insisted. "These are my people suffering in my name."

"Very well," Mozart sighed. "The Dragon Witch doesn't merely destroy towns—she transforms them into twisted parodies of your execution. Every village square becomes a place of public burning. Men, women, children... all are forced to experience what you endured. And she watches, they say, with a smile."

Jeanne's face went pale, her steps faltering momentarily. "God forgive her," she whispered.

"I doubt God has much to do with that creature," Mozart replied grimly. "But perhaps you might be the key to stopping her. The genuine article facing her counterfeit."

As dawn broke over the horizon, they crested a hill to see their destination—a small but formidable castle nestled against a forested mountainside. Its gray stone walls bore scorch marks and battle damage, but it stood defiantly intact. Colorful banners flew from its towers, a deliberately cheerful display against the backdrop of a nation under siege.

"Welcome to Château Espoir," Mozart announced with another theatrical flourish. "The last true safe haven in northern France. Or as Marie likes to call it, 'The Phoenix Nest'—a place from which hope will rise again from the ashes."

As they approached the castle gates, a figure appeared on the battlements—a young woman with elaborate white-silver hair styled in an unmistakably 18th-century fashion, wearing a dress that somehow managed to be both battle-practical and regally elegant.

"Mozart!" she called, her voice carrying a melodious quality that matched her appearance. "You've returned with friends! How wonderful!"

"Marie Antoinette, I presume," Ayanokouji noted.

"The very same," Mozart confirmed with obvious affection. "Queen of France from another time, now the heart and soul of our resistance."

The gates swung open to reveal a courtyard bustling with activity. Soldiers trained alongside civilians learning basic defense. Children carried supplies while elderly villagers tended to communal cooking fires. Despite the dire circumstances, there was an unmistakable atmosphere of determined hope.

Marie Antoinette descended from the battlements with graceful haste, her smile radiant as she approached the newcomers.

"Welcome, friends of Mozart!" she greeted them warmly. "Any enemy of the Dragon Witch is an ally of mine!"

Ritsuka stepped forward with a polite bow. "Thank you for your hospitality. We're representatives of Chaldea, an organization dedicated to preserving human history. I'm Fujimaru Ritsuka, and these are my companions."

After introductions were completed, Marie clasped her hands together with delight. "Chaldea! How marvelous! I've had visions of your organization in my dreams—defenders of humanity across time itself!"

"Visions?" Mash inquired curiously.

"Marie has a form of clairvoyance," Mozart explained. "Limited, but remarkably accurate regarding matters of significance."

"It's how I knew to send Mozart to find you," Marie confirmed. "I saw your arrival as a turning point in our struggle against the Dragon Witch."

She turned to Jeanne with particular interest. "And you—the true Jeanne d'Arc. Your presence here is the most significant sign yet that fate may finally be turning in our favor."

Jeanne bowed respectfully. "I'm honored by your faith, Your Majesty, though I'm currently manifested in a weakened state."

"Titles and strength matter little in times like these," Marie dismissed with a graceful wave. "It's heart and purpose that will determine victory."

She led them into the castle's great hall, which had been converted into a combination war room and refugee center. Maps of France covered tables, marked with the positions of the Dragon Witch's forces. Civilians rested on makeshift beds along the walls, while soldiers and messengers came and went continuously.

"Our situation is precarious but not hopeless," Marie explained, gesturing to the central map. "The Dragon Witch controls Orleans and most major towns within a fifty-mile radius. Her wyvern riders patrol continuously, making large-scale movement nearly impossible."

"What forces do you have?" EMIYA asked, examining the map with professional interest.

"Approximately two hundred trained soldiers who escaped the fall of various towns," Marie replied. "Plus another three hundred civilians who can wield weapons if necessary. In terms of Servants..." She gestured to Mozart. "Myself as Rider, Mozart as Caster, and we recently gained the assistance of a rather grumpy but effective Saber."

"You have another Servant?" Jeanne asked with surprise.

"D'Eon!" Marie called toward a side chamber. "Please join us!"

A slender figure entered—a person of ambiguous gender wearing the elegant uniform of a royal guard, complete with rapier and formal hat. Their long blonde hair was tied back in a neat ponytail, and they moved with the precise grace of a trained fencer.

"Chevalier d'Eon," they introduced themselves with a formal bow. "Knight of France and loyal servant to Her Majesty."

"Another historical figure from the wrong century," Mash observed quietly.

"This Singularity has summoned Servants from throughout France's history," Mozart explained. "All drawn to either serve or oppose the Dragon Witch."

With the full resistance leadership assembled, they began discussing strategy in earnest. Marie and d'Eon provided detailed intelligence on the Dragon Witch's forces while Ritsuka shared Chaldea's analysis of the Singularity.

Throughout the discussion, Ayanokouji remained relatively quiet, absorbing information while occasionally asking precise questions about the Dragon Witch's patterns and capabilities. His analytical approach drew approving nods from d'Eon and thoughtful glances from Marie.

"The key target must be the Holy Grail," he eventually stated, cutting through a circular debate about whether to prioritize saving villages or confronting the Witch directly. "It's the anchor point for this entire distortion. Remove it, and the Dragon Witch loses her power base."

"Easier said than done," d'Eon countered. "The Grail is undoubtedly kept in Orleans, at the center of her power. Breaking through those defenses would require an army we don't have."

"Perhaps not a frontal assault," Ayanokouji suggested. "But a smaller team might infiltrate while a diversion draws her forces elsewhere."

"I like how you think, monsieur," d'Eon nodded with growing respect. "A precise strike rather than a clumsy hammer."

As the strategy session continued, Ayanokouji noticed Medusa studying Marie Antoinette with unusual intensity. When there was a break in the discussion, he approached his Servant.

"You've been watching the queen," he observed quietly. "Something concerns you?"

"Not concerns," Medusa corrected. "Intrigues. Her manifestation is... peculiar. Like Jeanne's, it's incomplete—but deliberately so, as if she's chosen to materialize only certain aspects of her historical self."

"Interesting," Ayanokouji mused. "A conscious limitation rather than an imposed one."

"Precisely," Medusa nodded. "She's channeling only the idealized, hopeful aspects of Marie Antoinette, deliberately suppressing the historical queen's naivety and tragic end."

Before they could discuss further, a commotion erupted in the courtyard. Moments later, a bloodied soldier burst into the great hall.

"Your Majesty!" he gasped. "Wyverns approaching from the north! Dozens of them, led by a Servant in black armor!"

Marie's expression remained serene despite the alarming news. "How long do we have?"

"Minutes, Your Majesty. They move with unnatural speed."

"So much for our illusions," Mozart sighed. "It seems the Dragon Witch has found us after all."

Ritsuka immediately took charge alongside Marie. "EMIYA, take position on the highest tower. Mash, help coordinate the civilian evacuation. Jeanne and d'Eon, can you organize the castle's defenders?"

As everyone moved to their positions, Ayanokouji exchanged a glance with Medusa. "This may provide an opportunity to observe one of the Dragon Witch's lieutenants in action," he noted.

"Indeed," the Lancer agreed, materializing her golden lance. "Though I suspect you're hoping for more than mere observation."

"Knowledge through confrontation has its merits," he acknowledged with the barest hint of anticipation. "Shall we join the defenders at the north wall?"

Medusa's lips curved in a predatory smile. "After you, Master."

They ascended to the castle's northern battlements, where soldiers were hastily preparing defenses. Through the morning mist, the shapes of approaching wyverns were clearly visible—at least thirty massive beasts, their wings casting shadows over the surrounding countryside.

Leading them was a figure in black armor astride the largest wyvern—a beast nearly twice the size of its companions, with scales that gleamed like polished onyx and eyes that burned with hellish fire.

"Vlad III," Medusa identified the distant rider. "The Impaler. A formidable opponent, particularly in his corrupted form."

"The Dragon Witch seems to favor corrupted versions of historical figures," Ayanokouji observed. "Another pattern worth noting."

As the wyvern force drew closer, EMIYA's arrows began raining down from his position, each shot finding vulnerable points with unerring accuracy. Three wyverns fell before they reached the castle walls, but the others pressed on undeterred.

Vlad raised his lance—a cruel, barbed weapon that pulsed with dark energy—and pointed toward the castle. At his command, the wyverns released streams of black fire against the stonework, testing the defenses.

"Mozart's barriers are holding," a soldier reported with relief. "The magical reinforcement is repelling their fire!"

"For now," Ayanokouji noted, observing how certain sections of the barrier flickered under sustained assault. "But they're methodically identifying weak points."

Medusa twirled her lance, eyes fixed on the approaching force. "They're preparing for ground assault. The wyverns will land inside the perimeter if the outer walls fall."

When the first wave of wyverns descended toward the northern courtyard, Medusa leapt from the battlements with supernatural grace, her lance already striking before her feet touched the ground. The first beast died instantly, impaled through its skull with perfect precision.

Ayanokouji followed more conventionally, descending via the stairs. By the time he reached the courtyard, Medusa had already dispatched three wyverns and was engaged with two more simultaneously. Her movements were a blur of lethal elegance, golden lance leaving trails of light as it struck with impossible speed.

Rather than immediately joining the fray, Ayanokouji observed the battlefield with analytical precision, identifying patterns and vulnerabilities. The wyverns attacked in coordinated pairs, suggesting a hive-mind control rather than individual intelligence. More importantly, Vlad remained airborne, directing the assault rather than participating directly—a tactical choice that revealed valuable information about his priorities and assessment of the defenders.

When a wyvern broke through the defensive line and charged toward him, Ayanokouji finally moved. To observers, his response would appear as exceptional human combat skill—perfect timing, economy of movement, and exploitation of vulnerabilities. In reality, each strike carried a carefully measured fragment of his power, disrupting the magical constructs that animated the beasts.

"Ayanokouji-san!" Ritsuka called from across the courtyard, where she coordinated with Marie to direct defenders. "They're targeting the eastern gate now!"

He acknowledged with a nod, dispatching his current opponent with a precise strike before making his way toward the eastern section. As he moved through the chaos of battle, he noted how each Servant had adapted to the threat:

EMIYA rained arrows from above, each shot precisely calculated to maximize damage to the wyvern force.

Mash protected civilians with her shield, creating safe corridors for evacuation while occasionally counterattacking with surprising strength.

Jeanne fought alongside d'Eon, the two warriors complementing each other perfectly—d'Eon's rapier speed creating openings that Jeanne's heavier blade exploited.

Mozart conducted from a central position, his musical Noble Phantasm creating barriers and disorienting effects that confused the wyverns' coordination.

And Marie, surprisingly, fought from horseback—a magnificent white steed that moved with