Fate/Magus Path

97 Truth Brings Pain, Lies Make Things Worse

After encountering the witch controlled by Morgan le Fay, Roy found himself in a timeless confrontation with the infamous Witch of Britain in a remote corner of the bounded field.

As a Magician, he was now challenging the ultimate mystery from the Age of Gods... the Anchor of the Planet - Rhongomyniad.

Meanwhile...

After escorting Gray and Bersac to the end of the bounded field, Artoria immediately set off to retrace her steps, hoping to aid Roy, who was still inside. As a knight, she couldn't leave her Master alone in such a dangerous place, facing an unknown enemy.

However, despite there being only one path, her progress was interrupted by some mysterious force, causing her to veer off course.

By a twist of fate, she ended up in a vast, eerie tunnel. The atmosphere here felt strange and ominous.

Looking back, Artoria realized the path she had taken had vanished. The white mist that had originally filled the tunnel grew thicker, and a peculiar floral scent quickly invaded her senses.

"Something's not right..."

Sensing the abnormality around her, Artoria wasted no time. Before the mist could envelop her, she swiftly drew the Excalibur from her waist.

*Slash!!*

Blinding golden starlight effortlessly tore through the encroaching white fog, dispersing the strange floral fragrance under her surging magical energy.

Then, she turned her gaze toward a certain direction within the mist, frowning slightly, as she raised her sword, preparing to strike.

In a low, cold voice, she demanded, "Who's there? Come out now!"

"Ah, please lower your sword, Artoria, it's me, it's me!"

A cheerful voice came from the other side of the mist. The familiar figure rushed towards her, revealing a delighted smile as it stepped into view.

"Merlin?!"

Artoria was surprised to see the figure, but given the strange surroundings, she wasn't entirely sure if the Merlin before her was real. She kept her sword raised, wind coiled around it, ready to strike if anything seemed off.

Merlin noticed her wariness but showed no concern.

"Rest assured, it's really me, Artoria... no fakes here. I'm the genuine Magus of Flowers, as well as your mentor and guide."

"And... it's been a long time."

Merlin nodded slightly, feeling touched by this rare reunion with Artoria.

"Seeing that you're still in good spirits, I'm relieved. It seems Roy has taken good care of you."

"Are you really Merlin?" Artoria asked again, needing confirmation.

"Of course, it's me, I told you... no imposters."

"But I must be brief. I'm only able to manifest here because of the special nature of this bounded field. And since Morgan is currently tied up fighting Roy, she can't pay attention to me, giving me the chance to meet with you properly."

Hearing her sister's name from Merlin's lips, Artoria frowned slightly. "So that's how it is..."

"Morgan is indeed here, then? Does that mean she created this bounded field?"

"Yes..." Merlin nodded. "This entire Blackmore Cemetery and Gravekeeper's Village and the bounded field were prepared by Morgan for you."

"Originally, her plans were for your resurrection. But because of the plans Roy and I made, you were revived early as a Heroic Spirit, so all her preparations were rendered pointless."