The throne room of Camelot gleamed with ethereal light, golden radiance reflecting off polished marble floors that had witnessed countless strategic meetings since Victoria's conquest began. Artoria sat upon her throne with posture that spoke of absolute authority, the weight of kingship manifest in every deliberate movement. Around her stood the Knights of the Round Table, their presence filling the vast chamber with martial energy that made the very air feel charged.
Her gaze swept across the assembled knights, cataloging the changes that recent weeks had brought. Each warrior now bore weapons that transcended mundane craftsmanship, blades and shields and spears that carried fragments of legendary power forged through her connection to the Throne of Heroes.
Gawain's sword gleamed with solar radiance, the weapon channeling energies reminiscent of Excalibur Galatine though lacking the full might of his true Noble Phantasm. The blade hummed with contained power, heat radiating from its surface in visible distortions. He had taken to the weapon with characteristic enthusiasm, training extensively to master its capabilities during the weeks of preparation.
Lancelot bore twin blades that echoed his Arondight's nature, cutting edges that could sever enchantments and magical protections though they lacked the lake knight's supreme sword's absolute authority. The weapons suited his aggressive combat style, enabling combinations that leveraged his unmatched martial skill while compensating for the absence of his true armament.
Bedivere's right arm terminated in a shield that resonated with protective energies, defensive capabilities that allowed him to intercept attacks that would devastate lesser warriors. The manifestation was crude compared to what might have been achieved had she possessed his true Noble Phantasm, but it served adequately for his role as vanguard defender.
Mordred carried a greatsword crackling with crimson lightning, energies that mirrored her Clarent's destructive nature without achieving its reality warping fury. The weapon appealed to her aggressive temperament, each swing accompanied by thunderous discharge that could shatter defensive formations.
Tristan's bow sang with phantom strings, arrows manifesting from pure energy that could pierce targets at ranges exceeding conventional archery. He had adapted to the weapon with fluid grace, his natural talent for the bow allowing rapid mastery despite the mystical nature of its ammunition.
Gareth wielded a spear wreathed in flame, thrusting attacks leaving trails of fire that lingered in the air like burning afterimages. The weapon compensated for her relative lack of raw power compared to senior knights, enabling engagement at ranges that played to her superior agility.
Agravain bore a blade etched with geometric patterns that enhanced his tactical analysis, the weapon serving dual purpose as armament and magical focus. He had integrated it seamlessly into his strategic calculations, using its properties to coordinate knight deployments with unprecedented precision.
The collection represented substantial investment of her limited resources, each weapon requiring careful forging through her connection to heroic spirits. They were inferior to true Noble Phantasms by significant margins, but against ordinary opponents they would prove devastating. Against Reunion's forces, they would provide her knights the edge necessary to execute Victorian conquest without sustaining unacceptable casualties.
"The preparations proceed satisfactorily." Her voice carried absolute certainty, statement rather than question. "Each of you has demonstrated competence with your new armaments. When we march upon Reunion, there will be no doubt regarding Victoria's supremacy."
The knights responded with unified affirmation, their loyalty unwavering despite the challenges that awaited. Artoria felt satisfaction at their readiness, the years of companionship creating bonds that transcended simple military hierarchy.
Merlin stood beside the throne in his characteristic casual manner, the Magus of Flowers observing proceedings with expression that suggested amusement at private joke. His staff tapped against marble with irregular rhythm, each contact producing subtle magical resonance that only Artoria's enhanced senses detected.
"Your knights are adequately equipped for the coming storm. Though I wonder if mere armaments will suffice against opponents who wield genuine Noble Phantasms rather than these admittedly impressive forgeries."
His tone carried gentle mockery that would have earned rebuke from any other advisor. But Merlin existed outside normal hierarchies, his nature as manifestation rather than true incarnation granting freedoms that even Round Table knights did not enjoy.
"The Rhodes Island operatives possess advantages beyond simple weaponry. The Shiki individual in particular represents threat magnitude exceeding conventional assessment. Her Mystic Eyes of Death Perception counter defensive capabilities that might otherwise prove insurmountable."
Artoria's expression remained neutral, but internally she acknowledged the accuracy of Merlin's evaluation. The brief encounter in Londinium had revealed Shiki's capabilities, the ease with which she had analyzed and prepared to sever Rhongomyniad's conceptual anchoring demonstrating perception that rivaled divine authorities.
"Shiki will be addressed when circumstances permit direct engagement. For now, other concerns require attention."
She shifted position slightly, the movement drawing every knight's focus with magnetic intensity.
"The infiltrator who observed our operations in Londinium remains unaccounted for. The silver haired individual possessed capabilities suggesting advanced stealth techniques, possibly supported by technological systems beyond Terra's conventional development."
Merlin's staff stilled, the flower magus regarding Artoria with expression that might have been approval beneath his perpetual amusement.
"You believe she will return. Curiosity being fundamental to certain personality types, the temptation to investigate further will likely overcome prudent caution."
"Correct. When she returns, we will be prepared. I have no intention of allowing information about Victoria's true capabilities to spread unchecked among potential enemies."
Artoria did not elaborate on specific countermeasures, the nature of her preparations being classified even from most Round Table members. Merlin understood regardless, his insight into human nature making explicit explanation unnecessary. The trap would be subtle, leveraging the infiltrator's apparent confidence against her when she inevitably returned seeking additional intelligence.
The conversation shifted to logistical matters, deployment schedules and supply considerations that required royal approval before implementation could proceed. Artoria addressed each item with methodical efficiency, her administrative capabilities honed through years of kingship making such tasks routine rather than burdensome.
Throughout the discussion, her awareness remained partially focused on Rhongomyniad. The sacred lance rested beside her throne in vertical orientation, its shaft secured in ornate stand that elevated the weapon to prominence befitting humanity's anchor. Golden light emanated from the lance with steady pulse, radiance that had been gradually intensifying during recent weeks.
The charging process was proceeding optimally. Rhongomyniad accumulated power with each passing day, divine energies condensing within the lance's conceptual framework in preparation for deployment that would reshape Terra's fundamental nature. The system interface provided precise metrics, quantifying accumulation that defied conventional measurement.
[Rhongomyniad Charge: 47%] [Estimated Time to Full Charge: 36 Days, 14 Hours, 23 Minutes]
Thirty six days until the lance achieved sufficient power for world transformation. Thirty six days to complete Victorian conquest and establish dominion that would justify humanity's elevation. The timeline aligned acceptably with strategic projections, Reunion's anticipated assault providing opportunity to demonstrate Victoria's supremacy before implementing the ultimate solution to Terra's conflicts.
She dismissed the knights once all administrative matters were concluded, their departure executed with military precision that spoke to years of coordinated service. Only Merlin remained, the flower magus settling into casual posture that suggested extended conversation.
"Your lance grows stronger each day, accumulating power that will remake this world according to your vision. Yet I wonder if you have considered what comes after. Rewriting Terra's fundamental nature will create stability, certainly, but stability without growth becomes stagnation."
"Growth requires foundation. Terra's current state is chaos pretending at civilization, conflicts erupting continuously because fundamental incompatibilities between factions cannot be resolved through conventional means. Once Rhongomyniad establishes proper order, growth can proceed along rational trajectories rather than random violence."
Merlin's smile carried something that might have been sadness beneath the perpetual amusement.
"Humanity's greatest achievements have emerged from chaos rather than order. The very legends you embody were forged in conflict and uncertainty, heroic spirits crystallizing from moments when outcomes remained undetermined. Perfect order eliminates the circumstances that create heroes."
"Then Terra will not require heroes. It will have kings who ensure such dramatic necessities never arise."
The finality in her tone ended that particular discussion. Merlin understood when to press arguments and when to accept Artoria's immovable positions. He departed with characteristic flourish, leaving her alone in the throne room with only Rhongomyniad's pulsing radiance for company.
Artoria rose and approached the lance, her hand coming to rest on its shaft with reverent contact. The weapon responded to her touch, golden light intensifying briefly before returning to steady accumulation. Soon this power would be unleashed, Terra's fate rewritten according to vision that transcended individual nations or ideological conflicts.
Thirty six days until the world changed forever.
The Lungmen skyline materialized through morning haze as the transport vessel completed its approach, towers of glass and steel rising from floodplain that should have been unsuitable for such ambitious construction. Stelle pressed her face against the viewport with undisguised fascination, gray eyes tracking details that suggested civilization far more advanced than initial intelligence had indicated.
"This place is huge. Nothing like the backwater settlements we passed through getting here."
March 7th stood beside her with similar enthusiasm, the pink haired girl's camera already capturing images through the reinforced glass. Her expression carried delight that suggested she found aesthetic appeal in Lungmen's architectural blend of traditional Eastern design and modern engineering.
"It's beautiful! Look at how they integrated the old construction with new materials. That temple district over there looks ancient but the buildings around it are definitely contemporary."
Dan Heng observed from his position near the transport's rear, jade spear held with casual readiness despite the apparently peaceful approach. His expression remained neutral but Stelle had learned to read subtle tension in his posture, the way his grip shifted microscopically when he detected potential threats.
"Remain alert. Advanced civilization does not guarantee friendly reception. We are outsiders arriving without proper authorization during what appears to be period of significant tension."
Firefly nodded agreement from her seat, SAM's armor currently deactivated but readily accessible should combat become necessary. Her tactical analysis had been running continuously since they entered Lungmen's airspace, cataloging defensive emplacements and potential threat vectors with professional efficiency.
"The security presence is substantial. Military patrol patterns suggest they are expecting hostile action, possibly from the Reunion forces our intelligence indicated were active in this region."
The transport executed final approach to designated landing zone, descending with controlled precision that spoke to experienced pilot. Touchdown was smooth despite the vessel's considerable mass, landing gear absorbing impact with barely perceptible vibration.
Stelle was first to exit once the ramp deployed, stepping onto Lungmen soil with mixture of curiosity and caution. The landing zone was clearly military installation, armed personnel maintaining perimeter security while what appeared to be logistics operators managed cargo transfers from various vessels.
A woman approached their position with purposeful stride, distinctive white and green hair immediately identifying her as someone of importance. Her coat bore markings that suggested medical authority, but the way she carried herself indicated capabilities extending beyond simple healing expertise. Two operators flanked her at professional distance, their weapons holstered but clearly ready for deployment.
"Welcome to Lungmen. I am Kal'tsit, chief medical officer of Rhodes Island. The Doctor has been expecting your arrival and requested I ensure you receive appropriate accommodation."
Her tone was professional without being cold, clinical assessment evident in how her gaze swept across each member of their group. Stelle felt momentarily uncomfortable under that scrutiny, as if Kal'tsit was cataloging capabilities and threat potential through simple observation.
"Rhodes Island? We weren't given specific information about who we would be meeting." Dan Heng's caution manifested as measured response, neither confirming nor denying their purpose.
"The Doctor maintains extensive intelligence network. Your arrival from beyond Terra was noted and appropriate preparations made. Please follow me. Private meeting space has been prepared where proper introductions can occur without external observation."
She turned without waiting for confirmation, apparent confidence that they would follow based on pragmatic assessment rather than trust. Stelle exchanged glances with her companions, silent communication confirming they were in agreement about proceeding. Whatever awaited them would likely provide answers about this world's nature and the Stellaron's location.
The facility they were led through demonstrated organizational efficiency that impressed even Firefly's military trained sensibilities. Personnel moved with purpose, equipment maintained to standards suggesting substantial resources and disciplined oversight. This was not makeshift operation but established organization with deep infrastructure.
The room Kal'tsit eventually directed them to was comfortable without being luxurious, furnished with seating arranged to facilitate conversation rather than interrogation. Refreshments had been provided, simple fare that nonetheless demonstrated consideration for their potential needs after extended travel.
"The Doctor will arrive shortly. Please make yourselves comfortable. If you require anything, communications panel near the door can contact support staff."
Kal'tsit departed with same efficient directness that had characterized her arrival, leaving them alone in space that was clearly monitored despite lack of obvious surveillance equipment.
March flopped onto one of the couches with exaggerated relief, her earlier enthusiasm giving way to exhaustion that several days of travel had accumulated.
"Finally somewhere that isn't a cramped transport or wilderness campsite. I was starting to forget what actual furniture felt like."
Stelle claimed adjacent seat, her attention focused on the refreshments with interest that suggested hunger might override caution. The food appeared safe, standard provisions rather than anything exotic that might pose unknown risks.
Dan Heng positioned himself where he could observe the room's entrance while remaining part of the group, jade spear leaning against his chair within instant reach. His vigilance never fully relaxed, combat readiness maintained even during apparent downtime.
Firefly activated holographic display from her portable terminal, reviewing intelligence they had accumulated during their journey to Lungmen. Her brow furrowed with concentration as she cross referenced data points, attempting to construct coherent picture from fragmentary information.
"The Stellaron signature remains consistent with our long range scans. It's definitely in this region, though precise location is obscured by interference that suggests either natural phenomena or deliberate countermeasures."
"We'll get answers soon enough. This Doctor person clearly knows we're here and has specific information to share. Otherwise why arrange formal meeting?"
Stelle's pragmatic assessment was interrupted by the door opening, revealing two figures who entered with contrasting demeanors. The first wore distinctive hooded cloak that concealed their features, only their hands visible as they carried what appeared to be tactical tablet. The second was woman with long black hair and striking blue eyes, her clothing consisting of red leather jacket over blue kimono that seemed impractical for combat yet somehow suited her perfectly.
"Welcome to Lungmen. I am the Doctor, tactical commander of Rhodes Island. My companion is Shiki, one of our senior operators. Please, be seated. We have much to discuss."
The Doctor's voice was difficult to parse regarding gender, modulated quality suggesting either natural ambiguity or deliberate disguise. They settled into chair positioned to observe all present while Shiki claimed position slightly behind and to the side, her posture relaxed yet conveying readiness that reminded Stelle of Dan Heng's constant vigilance.
"You are seeking the Stellaron." The Doctor's statement held certainty rather than question. "Your arrival was anticipated once our intelligence network detected non Terran entities approaching Lungmen. The energy signature you are tracking is indeed present in this region, though accessing it presents complications that require addressing."
Dan Heng leaned forward slightly, jade eyes intent on the hooded figure.
"You know what a Stellaron is. That suggests either you possess information sources beyond this world or you have encountered similar phenomena previously."
"Both assertions are partially accurate. I possess knowledge from beyond Terra through circumstances that need not concern this discussion. What matters is that I can provide information regarding the Stellaron's current location and the obstacles preventing its retrieval."
The Doctor activated their tablet, holographic display materializing above the device to show what appeared to be topographical map of region surrounding Lungmen. A specific location deep within mountain range was marked with pulsing indicator.
"The Stellaron is located within what Terra designates as the Stygian Abyss, subterranean network that extends beneath the continental shelf. Our intelligence operative, Irene, confirmed its presence during reconnaissance mission approximately three weeks ago."
Shiki spoke for the first time, her voice carrying detached quality that suggested emotional distance from the information being conveyed.
"Irene encountered Seaborn presence within the Abyss. Hostile entities that demonstrated capabilities exceeding conventional threat assessment. She was forced to retreat, leaving behind the Nameless Knight to serve as rearguard."
"The Nameless Knight?" March's question carried confusion rather than recognition.
"An individual whose existence is defined by eternal combat against the Seaborn. They live to fight and will die fighting, purpose incarnate without identity beyond that singular function." The Doctor's explanation was clinical, stating facts without emotional investment.
"Recent intelligence indicates the situation has deteriorated significantly. A high level Seaborn designated Ishar'mla has manifested, accompanied by entity identified as Skadi the Corrupted Heart. Initial analysis suggests Skadi is assimilating with the Stellaron, integration creating threat magnitude that exceeds our current capacity to address through direct assault."
Firefly's tactical display immediately began processing this information, combat algorithms calculating engagement scenarios based on limited parameters.
"You're saying the Stellaron is actively merging with a hostile entity. That's catastrophic. Stellaron corruption combined with indigenous threat could create cascading disaster that affects this entire region."
"Correct assessment. However, deploying sufficient force to address the Seaborn threat would alert another hostile faction whose interference we cannot currently afford."
The holographic display shifted, showing different tactical overview focused on Victorian territory. The image depicted military deployments and strategic positions that suggested imminent large scale conflict.
"Victoria, ruled by King Arthur manifested as Artoria Pendragon, has conquered significant territory and possesses capabilities that would complicate any major operation we attempt near Lungmen. Deploying resources necessary to assault the Abyss and retrieve the Stellaron would leave us vulnerable to Victorian interference. We cannot fight wars on two fronts simultaneously."
Stelle processed this cascade of information, attempting to construct understanding from revelations that seemed designed to overwhelm. Stellarons she understood, their corruption and threat being familiar from previous encounters. But Seaborn and Victorian conquest and manifested legendary figures introduced complications that transcended simple retrieval mission.
"So you're saying we need to deal with this Artoria person before we can access the Stellaron. That's what this meeting is actually about. You want assistance against Victoria in exchange for supporting our objective."
The Doctor's posture suggested approval at her direct assessment.
"Precisely. Our interests align. You require the Stellaron's retrieval, we require Victoria's defeat before we can address the Abyss situation. Cooperation benefits both parties."
Dan Heng had been silent during this exchange, his expression thoughtful as he processed strategic implications. Now he produced communication device from his coat, fingers moving across its interface with practiced efficiency.
"I need to consult with my superiors before committing to military alliance. The scope of what you're describing exceeds my authorization to agree independently."
The Doctor nodded understanding, gesturing that he should proceed. Dan Heng activated the device, holographic projection manifesting to show communication link being established across whatever distance separated them from his ship.
The projection resolved into two figures. The first was woman with striking red hair and mature bearing, her expression carrying warmth tempered by clear intelligence. The second was elderly man with distinguished features, his presence suggesting authority earned through extensive experience.
"Dan Heng. Your report indicated you had made contact with local authorities. I assume this communication means the situation requires consultation?" The woman's voice carried concern beneath professional composure.
"Himeko. Welt. The situation is more complex than initial intelligence suggested. We have encountered Rhodes Island organization led by individual called the Doctor. They possess information about the Stellaron's location but require assistance with military conflict before retrieval can proceed."
He gestured toward the Doctor and Shiki.
"Doctor, these are Himeko and Welt Yang, my colleagues aboard the Astral Express. Any alliance would require their approval."
The Doctor inclined their head respectfully toward the projection.
"I am the tactical commander of Rhodes Island, a pharmaceutical company that operates throughout Terra providing medical services and conflict resolution. Our current situation involves pending assault by Reunion terrorist organization and territorial expansion by Victorian military forces. We possess intelligence indicating the Stellaron you seek is located in hostile territory that we cannot safely access until these threats are addressed."
Welt's expression suggested he was conducting his own analysis, decades of experience evaluating the hooded figure's credibility through limited information.
"You claim knowledge of Stellarons. That suggests either extraordinary intelligence capability or direct experience with their effects. Which is accurate?"
"Both. I possess knowledge from beyond Terra that includes understanding of Stellaron phenomena. Additionally, we have encountered individuals from another organization who are also seeking the Stellaron, though their objectives differ from yours."
Before Welt could respond, Firefly leaned forward with urgency that suggested she had recognized something significant.
"Another organization seeking Stellarons? Can you describe them?"
"Silver Wolf, Kafka, and Blade. They identify themselves as Stellaron Hunters, operating under direction of someone called Elio who apparently possesses precognitive capabilities."
Firefly's reaction was immediate, her expression shifting to something between relief and resignation.
"I need to add information to this discussion. I am also affiliated with the Stellaron Hunters. My presence here is part of Elio's script, though I was operating under separate authorization from the others."
The revelation created moment of silence as everyone processed this unexpected connection. Himeko and Welt exchanged glances that suggested this complicated matters considerably, while Stelle looked at Firefly with mixture of surprise and understanding.
"Elio's script specifically directs alliance with Rhodes Island. I was not informed of the details, only that cooperation with the Doctor's organization serves our ultimate objectives. Given this directive, I can confirm that Stellaron Hunter interests align with the proposed arrangement."
The Doctor appeared unsurprised by this revelation, their posture suggesting they had suspected such connection.
"Then we have three parties whose interests converge. The Astral Express seeks Stellaron retrieval, the Stellaron Hunters operate according to precognitive script that mandates cooperation, and Rhodes Island requires assistance against military threats before accessing the location where the Stellaron resides."
Welt studied the Doctor for long moment before speaking, his tone carrying weight of decision that would bind multiple organizations.
"The Astral Express does not typically involve itself in local military conflicts. However, if the Stellaron has indeed merged with hostile entity as you describe, allowing that situation to develop unchecked would violate our fundamental purpose. We will support this alliance, provided terms are clearly established and objectives remain focused on Stellaron retrieval rather than territorial conquest."
"Agreed. Rhodes Island's objectives are defensive rather than expansionist. We seek to protect Lungmen and address the Reunion threat, then access the Abyss to prevent Stellaron corruption from spreading. Your assistance in these goals will be reciprocated with full support in retrieving and containing the Stellaron once access becomes possible."
Himeko nodded acceptance, her expression settling into resolve that suggested she had committed fully to this course of action.
"Then the Astral Express will provide what support we can. Welt and I will coordinate with you regarding deployment capabilities and strategic integration. Dan Heng's team will serve as our ground operation representatives."
The Doctor made notations on their tablet, apparently recording agreement details for later reference.
"Excellent. Then we are allied. Rhodes Island, the Astral Express, and the Stellaron Hunters working in coordination to address both Victorian expansion and the Seaborn threat, culminating in Stellaron retrieval."
Shiki had remained silent throughout most of this exchange, but now she spoke with observation that carried subtle amusement.
"An alliance formed between pharmaceutical company, dimensional travelers, and precognitive directed operatives to fight legendary king and eldritch horrors. The absurdity is almost poetic."
"Terra specializes in absurdity. We simply adapt to circumstances and execute optimal strategies regardless of how improbable the situation appears."
The Doctor's dry response drew quiet laughter from March, the tension that had characterized the meeting beginning to dissipate as formal agreements gave way to practical planning.
"When does this conflict with Victoria begin? We should understand timeline for integration and deployment."
"Thirty six days until the primary engagement. Reunion forces led by Patriot will assault Lungmen, providing opportunity to demonstrate capabilities and establish defensive position. Victoria's intervention is anticipated shortly thereafter, though exact timing depends on King Arthur's strategic calculations."
Stelle absorbed this timeline, mind already working through implications and necessary preparations. Thirty six days to ready themselves for battle against opponents who wielded legendary weapons and commanded armies that had conquered nations.
It should have felt overwhelming. Instead, she felt anticipation building, familiar excitement that came before every major challenge. This was what the Astral Express did, confronting impossible situations and somehow prevailing through determination and improvised brilliance.
"Then we have work to do. Training, equipment integration, tactical planning. Thirty six days isn't much time to prepare for what sounds like apocalyptic battle."
The Doctor stood, gesturing for them to follow.
"Come. I'll show you Rhodes Island's facilities and introduce you to key personnel. If we're going to fight together, you should understand our capabilities and operational methodology."
They departed the meeting room as newly forged alliance, four organizations united by convergent necessity against threats that transcended normal military engagement. Stelle felt cautious optimism building as they walked through Rhodes Island's corridors, possibility emerging from chaos that had seemed impenetrable just hours earlier.
Thirty six days until everything changed. Thirty six days to turn improbable alliance into effective fighting force.
The real work was only beginning.