Edo Singularity (Illusory Waxing Moon)

Chaldea Security Organization
Locations
Technology
Grand Orders
Human Order Incineration Incident
Remnant Order
Human Order Revision Incident
Ordeal Call
Inner World of Paper Moon (OCI)
Edo Singularity
Inescapable Gehenna (OCII)
Moon Dubai (OCIII)
Reckoning Singularity (OCIV)
Ordeal Call V
Presidential Singularities
Singularity F
Human Order Annihilation (Arcade)
v

The Edo Singularity (江戸特異点^?) is a Singularity manifested upon the whitened world during the Ordeal Call Operation faced by Chaldea Security Organization. It takes place in the Parallel World of World of Fate/Samurai Remnant, and it is the result of the machinations of the Apostle of the Alien World, the Count.

The events of Chaldea's visit to this Singularity are covered in the event Waxing Moon Clashing Swords Chronicles.

Setting

History

Flowers Scattered With the Fragrance of Blood

In some old Japanese town at night, Rider kills Tomoe Gozen, the Stray Archer, after a fierce battle. A pale woman with white hair and blue eyes commends her and states they have slain all Servants summoned by the Waxing Moon, at least for now. Unfortunately, new Servants are immediately summoned.^[1]

The pale woman angrily questions why the Waxing Moon Ritual will not come to an end. The last pair standing in the ritual should receive the all-powerful wish granter that is the Waxing Moon, yet the Waxing Moon is never sated no matter how many Heroic Spirits are slain. The pale woman questions how many times they must repeat the ritual.^[1]

Rider tells her the ritual is normally a battle between seven Masters and their Servants. However, those they've killed have all been Stray Servants, those without Masters. Rider tells the pale woman the Waxing Moon will not be sated by anything but the deaths of the Masters.^[1]

The pale woman asks where they are then because no matter how many times the ritual repeats, no other Masters has made themselves known. Rider tells her not to burden herself with such matters and to leave everything to her. By her command, she will destroy the wrongs of this world. The pale woman agrees to repeat the ritual, all for the sake of a truly just world.^[1]

At Senso-ji Temple, a young swordsman rises from the ground. He has no idea why he is here or how he got here. But he feels he is missing something that which made him who he was. He feels like an empty vessel, feeling no rage, grief, pain, or emptiness. Only the moonlight seems to fill the void inside him.^[1]

Ritsuka successfully rayshifts into the Singularity in a castle town they find reminiscent of Shimosa. Leonardo da Vinci has her suspicions about the Singularity when they say that. Sion Eltnam Sokaris rechecks the coordinates and confirms the date is 1651, which is a very close timeframe to when the events of Shimosa occurred in 1639. Ritsuka should be in Edo, but TRISMEGISTUS II has doubts. The Human Order Foundation Value is also unstable.^[1]

Goredolf Musik is worried about Ritsuka being there without a Servant. Mash apologizes to Ritsuka that she couldn't come with them, but Da Vinci needs her on data processing in the control room. Under normal circumstances, only micro-Singularities occur on the Bleached Earth, so any exception cannot be overlooked. The Alien God's machinations cannot be ruled out.^[1]

Sion says there weren't any suitable Servants to send with Ritsuka into the Singularity, not even Mash. Da Vinci wonders if it has something to do with the Singularity or if it is a trap. Fortunately, multiple Servants were summoned in the Singularity a few hours ago. One of them is exceptionally strong, and TRISMEGISTUS II predicted they would side with Chaldea. Goredolf orders Ritsuka to find this Servant and cooperate with them to resolve the Singularity.^[1]

Suddenly, multiple oni appear. Ritsuka summons to defend themselves. They're left exhausted after the battle because how many oni they were. They then hear someone fighting nearby, so they check it out.^[1]

Slay Every Demon You See

At Senso-ji Temple, the young swordsman slays all the oni that suddenly appeared and attacked him. Afterward, they're attacked by Rider, who recalls they first met on a moonlit night. She prepares to attack, but the pale woman orders her to stand down, reminding her killing a man without naming herself runs counter to her code. She finds it unfortunate, though, that the Master who finally appeared was Miyamoto Iori.^[2]

She tells Iori she once saw the light in him. She hoped her feelings weren't misplaced. However, now that another Master has finally appeared, the true Waxing Moon Ritual can begin. She introduces herself as Yui Shousetsu, and proclaiming she will be a liberator, she sends Rider to kill Iori.^[2]

As Iori defends himself against Rider, Shousetsu asks him why he doesn't summon his Servant, wondering if it is the same Saber. Iori hasn't a clue what she is saying. Shousetsu refuses to relinquish the Waxing Moon nor let her wish fall to ruin. Iori wonders how he can get out of this situation.^[2]

Ritsuka arrives at Senso-ji Temple. They see Iori and Rider, whom they recognize as Minamoto-no-Raikou. Goredolf assumes she is the Servant predicted to ally with them.^[2]

Raikou lets out an evil laugh and points out to Shousetsu that Ritsuka has Command Spells. Shousetsu presumes Ritsuka is another Master come to claim the Waxing Moon. She requests their name and gives her own when they give theirs, proclaiming she wishes for a truly peaceful world.^[2]

Da Vinci realizes Shousetsu is why the date is 1651. Shousetsu was Edo peroid military scholar who was a mastermind of the Keian Uprising, a plot to overthrow the government by a group of ronin. Said uprising occured in 1651, so it's possible Shousetsu is the cornerstone of the Singularity.^[2]

Iori, understanding Ritsuka and Shousetsu aren't allies, thinks about how to escape. Shousetsu leaves everything to Raikou, who proceed to attack Ritsuka.^[2]

But Shousetsu is bewildered to see that Ritsuka commands multiple Servants despite the typical rule of one Servant per Master. She asks if they're using immoral means to puppeteer "Strays" like Tsuchimikado did.^[2]

Raikou informs Shousetsu that Ritsuka is not from this world. They are a member of Chaldea, mages who travel across numerous worlds and employ numerous Heroic Spirits. Shousetsu questions how Raikou knows this, wondering if the Waxing Moon imparted on her.^[2]

But ignoring that, she asks if Ritsuka is a formidable opponent. Raikou tells her as a mage, Ritsuka would be no match for her, but as a Master, they are unparalleled. Shosetsu decides to give it her all then.^[2]

However, before she can join the battle, Iori attacks her, but she counters him with a defensive spell. Ritsuka finds Iori's swordsmanship familiar. Iori allies himself with Ritsuka and throws out a blinding flash to mask their escape.^[2]

Shousetsu summons homunculi and orders Raikou to pursue Ritsuka and Iori. After Raikou departs, Shousetsu reiterates she yearns for a world of peace, and for that reason she cannot relinquish the Waxing Moon to Iori.^[2]

Fateful Encounter in a Blinding Night

After escaping, Iori introduces himself. Ritsuka recalls Miyamoto Musashi said she had a student. Iori is caught off-guard that they said "she" and asks if they know his teacher somehow. Da Vinci doubts Iori's adopted parent is the same Musashi they know. Iori feels like he's seen the type of holographic communication Mystic Code Ritsuka uses before, but he can't remember where from.^[3]

Da Vinci describes Chaldea as a branch of mages to Iori. She then introduces Ritsuka, saying they're in Edo investigating the phenomena occurring right now. She requests they exchange information, which Iori agrees to since there is a lot he doesn't understand.^[3]

Explaining the basic outline for a Holy Grail War, Da Vinci suspects the Waxing Moon Ritual Shousetsu is a Holy Grail War and that the Waxing Moon is the Grail, which is likely the source of Edo's oddities.^[3]

Iori finds it odd there is no human presence in Edo on top of the monsters running rampant in the city. He cannot ignore the Waxing Moon if it is the cause and decides to help Chaldean since they seek to correct these distortions.^[3]

He asks what measurements they're taking, considering Shousetsu to be the key to the Waxing Moon since she seeks to progress the ritual. Da Vinci tries to lay out a plan, but Shousetsu quickly cuts off communications. Ritsuka and Iori find themselves surrounded by Shousetsu's homunculi and other monsters.^[3]

Shosetsu recognizes Ritsuka as a worthy opponent, so she will face them with all her might. She grants Raikou, per her request, all the magical energy that was cultivated at the leylines' Spirit Fonts. Greatly empowered, Raikou attacks Ritsuka and Iori.^[3]

Iori is injured in the battle. Shousetsu realizes for all their experience Ritsuka isn't aware of standard practice in the ritual. Iori seems to have forgotten as well, so Shousetsu reminds him one can secure Spirit Fonts by connecting the leylines. In that sense, the Waxing Moon Ritual is also a battle for territory. She has repeated the ritual since long before Ritsuka and Iori arrived.^[3]

Ritsuka refuses to give up, to which Raikou oddly smiles. Iori also refuses to give up. Raikou jumps behind him and swings her sword to kill him. But her strike is deflected by the supposed Servant of Iori---Saber. They have come to prevent the calamity of the Waxing Moon.^[3]

Iori finds Saber's swordplay familiar. Saber knows Ritsuka is from Chaldea and mentions being a Saber again. They then proceed to slay Shousetsu's monsters.^[3]

Ritsuka amazed by Saber's strength, wondering if they're the ally Sion meant. Saber urges the others to run. While running, at Saber's request, Ritsuka introduces themselves. Iori introduces himself as well, but Saber pouts, saying they didn't ask him.^[3]

Saber says they're retreating to Iori's place. The workshop built there should make it easily defensible, and they can fight there if needed. Also, since the ritual is a war between mages, they will need Gramps Red's help. Iori is surprised Saber knows about Gramps.^[3]

Cutting through the homunculi in their way, the heroes soon reach Iori's home. They are quickly met by Raikou, however. Saber realizes Raikou isn't a Rider but an Extra Class. Raikou responds her container doesn't matter, for she will sunder and annihilate until all wrongs are destroyed. Saber sees Raikou is the same as ever.^[3]

Shousetsu arrives. Saber is incredlous she would contract with Raikou again. Shousetsu, however, believes Raikou's word that she will devote everything for the sake of her wish---to correct all distortions of the human world.^[3]

But all the sudden, Raikou becomes depowered thanks to the leylines being severed. Ghosts then appear, followed by Chiemon. Seeing him, Saber warns Ritsuka and Iori to be on guard, for Lancer is hiding nearby.^[3]

Lancer tries to ambush Saber, but they deflect her attack. Ritsuka assumes she is Jeanne d'Arc Alter, but she makes it clear she is not.^[3]

Chiemon is amused to see Iori and Shousetsu have fallen as well, like he suspected, referring to Edo as hell made specifically for them. Shousetsu accepts that as she seeks the Waxing Moon, even knowing it's heretical. She will not hesitant to dirty her hands to obtain it. But it is all the sake of her wish for a truly peace world, unlike Chiemon, who would see it burn.^[3]

Iori assumes Chiemon seeks the Waxing Moon also. He finds that unforgivable as the Waxing Moon brings about calamity. Thus, to protect the peace, he must stop Chiemon. A three-way battle between the heroes, Shousetsu and Raikou, and Chiemon and Jeanne d'Arc commences.^[3]

Eventually Chiemon uses a spell Mori Souiken taught him to call on the spirit of Tsuchimikado Yasuhiro, who appears in the form of a giant ghost. He remains fixated on using the Waxing Moon to restore the glory of the Tsuchimikado. He flies into a rage when Caster doesn't heed his call.^[3]

Shousetsu and Raikou retreat, the former wanting avoid using excess magical energy now they're cut off from the leyline. Chiemon and Jeanne retreat as well, the former curious how long Iori maintain his "goody two shoes" act for. The heroes fight Yasuhiro's spirit.^[3]

But Yasuhiro keeps regenerating, so Saber defeats him in a single blow with Special Technique - Eight-Current Raging Storm. Yasuhiro fades away as he entrusts the rest to Takatoshi.^[3]

Iori is amazed by Saber's Noble Phantasm, but the sight of it makes his chest ache as if he's in mourning.^[3]

Saber asks Iori if he desires the Waxing Moon, warning him that they will stop him if he does. They know what will happen if he claims it. Iori, however, tells Saber he has never met them before. Saber had already figured Iori had no memory of the ritual.^[3]

They confirm Ritsuka's suspicions that the Waxing Moon Ritual was held once before in Edo, and Iori was their Master. But Iori has no Command Spells, meaning Saber was summoned as a Stray this time.^[3]

A Killing Game Over the Waxing Moon

The next morning, inside Iori's home, Saber wakes up Gramps, who remembers Saber. Ritsuka is surprised to see Gramps is a talking book. Iori properly introduces him as the Crimson Codex, an heirloom left to him by his adopted father, Miyamoto Musashi, and his magecraft teacher.^[4]

Da Vinci is very interested in the fact the Crimson Codex can talk, wondering if he is a Mystic Code endowed with a pseudo-personality like Gray's Add. The Crimson Codex surmises the Chaldeans are using telepathic magecraft, finding it similar to the Mystic Code Zheng Chennong used. He confirms that Chenngong was a Master in the ritual.^[4]

After the situation is explained to him, the Crimson Codex deduces it is difficult to detect other Servants in this Edo. Saber admits that is the case. Da Vinci suspects Servants being unable to even vaguely detect one another is an issue particular to the Singularity.^[4]

As this Edo is without people, Iori calls it fake, but he understands, like the Chaldeans said, that the Singularity will bring disaster to the original Edo if left unchecked. He concludes that Shousetsu must be stopped.^[4]

Saber asks the Crimson Codex how much of the ritual he remembers. The Crimson Codex says he remembers all of it, but he thinks Iori may be better off not knowing the details of what transpired. He suspects Iori is not the Iori he knows.^[4]

He also expects that Saber remembers the lady Musashi, Berserker Servant to Takao Dayu. He inadvertently reveals that she was the same Musashi that Chaldea knew, much to the shock of Ritsuka and Mash.^[4]

Moving on, the Crimson Codex explains the Waxing Moon Ritual is a grand rite presided over by the Tsuchimikado family, the head onmyouji clan. The procedure is a standard Holy Grail War.^[4]

Da Vinci thinks to herself, however, how there is no record of a Grail War occurring in this era of Japan. That is, unless they're in a pruned event. She would very much like to hear how Musashi got involved and the similarities to Shimosa.^[4]

Continuing, the Crimson Codex then lists off all the Masters and their Servants of the original ritual. Iori and Saber, Shousetsu and Rider, Chiemon and Lancer, Yasuhiro and Caster, Chenggong and Archer, Dorothea Coyett and Assassin, and Takao and Berserker Musashi.^[4]

However, he reiterates his suspicions that Iori is a different Iori because otherwise, why would he not remember the ritual nor possess Command Spells? Iori may be an Iori from prior to his involvement in the Waxing Moon Ritual. The Crimson Codex admits it is all hypothetical, though. However, since the Singularity's events can affect the original world, it's possible something bad may happen if Iori knew all the particulars.^[4]

During breakfast, it is determined dealing with Shousetsu is the highest priority. The issue, however, is Raikou's strength, having accumulated telluric energy from the Spirit Fonts. Shousetsu has likely seized Spirit Fronts all around Edo, thereby gaining a considerable amount of their power. Challenging Shousetsu and Raikou head on would thus be unwise.^[4]

The Crimson Codex advises they seize the nearby Spirit Fronts and secure their own telluric energy. He then shows a map of Edo and shows Asakusa (the heroes' current location) is also a major Spirit Font. With Asakusa as their base, they will connect the leylines to the nearest Spirit Fonts, gaining much telluric energy in the process.^[4]

Major Spirit Fonts adjacent to Asakusa are Okachimachi, Ueno, Kanda, and Yoshiwara---Takao's stronghold. It is unknown if Takao is part of the Singularity like Shousetsu and Chiemon. But regardless, the possibility of another Master being nearby can't be ignored.^[4]

Da Vinci, considering they were jammed last night, decides it's best to refrain from using the comm outside Asakusa except when necessary. She leaves Ritsuka to determine where to go to next. The Crimson Codex advise caution with Edo teeming with monsters and the possibility of attacks from Shousetsu and Chiemon.^[4]

A Sword's Ray of Light Bloomed in Reverie

At Senso-ji Temple, Saber reveals their True Name is Yamato Takeru. However, they forbid Iori from calling them by their True Name for reasons unknown to Iori.^[5]

The Plague of a Sword or the Allure of a Woman

The heroes come to Yoshiwara, Edo's red-light district, in hopes of finding Takao. The Crimson Codex mentions how prostitution in Yoshiwara is a living hell for its women and presumes Takao's wish for the Waxing Wish was to save them. Nonetheless, he considers Takao reasonable and believes Musashi won't attack without warning. He thinks otherwise, though, when Iori and Takeru both agree Musashi would attack.^[6]

Ritsuka makes a face that tells Iori they're hiding something too difficult to say aloud. They know Musashi is long gone.^[6]

Iori asks the Crimson Codex and Takeru if there is anything else in Yoshiwara to be wary of. Takeru recalls the Stray Berserker, a large man who protected Yoshiwara with his unparalleled physical strength. He can't be reasoned with, thanks to his Mad Enchancted, so it's best not to antagonize him.^[6]

The heroes try to explore the district when all of a sudden, they see Spartacus kill a monster before them. Iori assumes he is the Stray Berserker Takeru described, but both they and the Crimson Codex assert he is not. More monsters then appear, so the heroes move to slay them.^[6]

Spartacus kills the monsters with Crying Warmonger. Afterward, he asks Takeru if they're oppressor and attacks them. More monsters appears, including what Iori presumes is the leader.^[6]

He attacks the monster leader, but it is ineffective as the monster is clad in armor made of magical energy. He thinks that Takeru was right for calling him weak. He realizes he is still far from being the greatest swordsman in the land, even after honing his Niten Ichiryu and receiving training from the Crimson Codex in foreign magecraft. The monster leader ambushess Iori while he is lost in thought.^[6]

Meanwhile, Takeru's attempts to dissuade Spartacus fail, as the latter can tell from a glance that they've killed those who would not follow them. He considers them a violent subjugator, and thus, they are an oppressor. Takeru is left with no choice but to fight Spartacus.^[6]

But they soon stop the fight to admit Spartacus was right about their bloodstained past. But in spite of that, whatever the world, whatever the era, they vow on all the lives they've taken to do what must be done. They can barely understand a word of Spartacus, but they consider him beautiful for fighting for the weak. Therefore, they will not kill him, for he is not their enemy, even if they are his.^[6]

Suddenly, both Takeru and Spartacus sense malice coming from the direction of the others. Spartacus immediately goes off after it. Takeru follows afterward, hoping for Iori to be safe.^[6]

Iori defeats the monster leader with Tsubame Gaeshi Hiyoku no Dan. The Crimson Codex is delighted to see he has regained his signature style of combining Niten Ichiryu and magecraft. Takeru arrives and, recognizing the technique, asks Iori if he has regained his memories. But to their disappointment, he has not.^[6]

Spartacus arrives and warns it is not over yet. The monster leader gets up, surging with telluric energy. Takeru realizes the telluric energy is the source of the monster's Servant-like strength, but they feel something doesn't add up. The heroes fight it alongside Spartacus after calls on reinforcements.^[6]

With the monsters slain, the heroes now have control of Yoshiwara's leylines. Spartacus offers them his aid, considering all of them rebels.^[6]

Leaving Yoshiwara by nightfall, Takeru expresses disappointment in the absense of Takao and Musashi, feeling the trip was a wild goose chase. Iori, however, thinks confirming there was no Master in Yoshiwara was sufficient. But the Crimson Codex calls securing Yoshiwara's Spirit Font a major haul and advises securing more so they can match Raikou.^[6]

Iori also considers it good that he regained his signature style, believing he can be of more help to Ritsuka now. He realizes to himself his style was meant to realize a distant wish because, otherwise, one untalented as him would be unable to reach it. It amuses him he has a burning desire to pursue it.^[6]

Takeru thinks back to when Iori used Tsubame Gaeshi Hiyoku no Dan and realizes with concern what it means for him to have achieved that style.^[6]

A Savage Soul in the Demonic Revelry

That night, Shousetsu finds Li Shuwen impressed by the number of homunculi he's killed. She initially refers to him as Stray Assassin before correcting herself to Stray Lancer. She confirms his suspicions that he was part of the ritual before, though it was the older him she knew.^[7]

Li Shuwen readies to attack Shousetsu, having figured she was the one who sent the homunculi. Raikou steps up to defend her Master, but Shousetsu orders her to stand down. She apologizes to Li Shuwen for what she did. However, she sees no reason for them to fight since he is once again a Stray.^[7]

She proclaims the true Waxing Moon has begun. Her enemy is an unparalleled Master commanding a multitude of Servants and will every means at her disposal for that reason. She thus requests Li Shuwen's assistance in creating a truly peaceful world. Li Shuwen is left nearly speechless by her request.^[7]

The next morning, at Iori's home, the heroes report what happened at Yoshiwasra to Mash and Da Vinci. The Crimson Codex admits his assumption all participants would be present was baseless. He doubts they changed bases as there are only so many major Spirit Fonts in Edo that can be used as bases. It'd also prove challenging for the Masters to move from the land they're accustomed to. Takao, in particular, was attached to Yoshiwara, so she wouldn't move without good reason. Nevertheless, Da Vinci thinks it's best to continue investigating the former Masters' abodes as that is their only lead thus far.^[7]

As for their next destination, the Crimson Codex advises against Kanda, where Shousetsu's academy is located, since it's protected by powerful Bounded Fields and traps. He, therefore, recommends going to Akasaka, where Chenggong was based. However, while he is pleasant without guile, his wish for the Waxing Moon is urgent. Assuming he is in the Singularity, it will be likely he and the heroes will be at odds. The heroes will, therefore, need to be more vigilant than they were in Yoshiwara.^[7]

The Crimson Codex then brings up the issue of the Strays. With the exception of Takeru, who is a Stray this time supported by the Human Order, all Strays are short on magical energy and have unstable Spirit Origins. That makes it necessary for them to draw magical energy directly from Spirit Fonts, and most treat specific Spirit Fonts as personal turf. The heroes will, therefore, need to wary of the Strays when acquiring Spirit Fonts. Also, given the Stray Berserker is a different person from before, they should assume not all Strays this time will be familiar.^[7]

Reciting Prayers to Buddha in Hell

While walking the streets of Asakusa, Takeru and the Crimson Servant suddenly remember Boss and his shop. The heroes find said shop, but it is occupied by a different Stray Ruler. He has been summoned to arbitrate the ritual, witnessing the actions of its participants from a neutral standpoint.^[8]

He looks at Rituka and can tell from a glance they are deeply familiar with hells. A hell for souls built by man. A hell ancient and dark. A hell where the evil one laughs contemptuously. A hell of a hollowed earth.^[8]

Ritsuka is left baffled by how he knows all of that. Stray Ruler does not elaborate, simply advising Ritsuka to continue advancing without forgetting their doubts. He returns into the shop, praying there be light to guide the heroes through hell. The heroes move on ahead.^[8]

Deafening Clashes of the Sword

At Zōjō-ji, the heroes are forced by Sétanta, the younger Cú Chulainn, who was the Stray Lancer in the last ritual, to fight him. They beat him, so he allows them access to the Spirit Font and offers them his aid.^[9]

Like the Warring States

The heroes arrive at Akasaka to find monsters fighting each other. Ritsuka suspects a Master is responsible. Iori agrees as one as one side looks like it's commanded, presuming they belong to either Chiemon or Shousetsu. The Crimson Codex surmises they seek to seize control of Akasaka's Spirit Font.^[10]

Takeru spots the leader of the monsters to the rear. They want to kill it now, but the Crimson Codex suggests waiting for their enemies to wear each other down. Iori agrees with Takeru, however, that it'd be easier to wipe them all out as they can't know when more will come. The heroes head out to slay the monsters.^[10]

But while fighting Ritsuka is ambushed by Li Shuwen. Fortunately, Iori arrives just in time to deflect the latter's spear. Takeru presumes Li Shuwen is here because of Shousetsu. They recall he had assisted her in the last ritual when he was the older Stray Assassin.

Li Shuwen realizes his previous association with Shousetu under a different summoning is what brought them together. He wonders if he felt such pity for her that it elicited parental affection.^[10]

But while he admits to assisting Shoutsetsu, he prefers killing the heroes. Ritsuka notices the monster leader has escaped. Li Shuwen attacks, leading to a fight.^[10]

The heat of the battle gets Iori riled up, something Takeru remembers always happened in the last ritual. But the fight is interrupted by a nearby explosion. Li Shuwen heads off to the source, with the heroes following after him.^[10]

They arrive to see Li Shuwen fighting Jeanne and Chiemon fighting the monster leader. Chiemon is disgusted to see Iori, who doesn't understand the former's grudge. But Chiemon considers it a problem for the others to be here and declares they will all die.^[10]

Jeanne unleashes her flames. Iori and Li Shuwen dodge them. Takeru douses them with one of their watery attacks. The monster leader meanwhile seems to blow them away with a roar.^[10]

Telluric energy flows into the monster, indicating to Chiemon that it is Asakasa's keystone. He calls on Jeanne, and everyone gets ready to fight. Before the battle begins, Takeru notices Chenggong still hasn't come out despite all the commotion.^[10]

The monster leader is slain. Chiemon decides to retreat since he and Jeanne have fulfilled their objective. He hates the heroes have taken the Spirit Font, but he thinks it's better than letting Shousetsu have it. He and Jeanne then retreat.^[10]

Li Shuwen offers the heroes his aid as an apology for attacking them. Abandoning Shoussetsu is fine with him since he only helped her out of pity. He feels it's pointless for him to be in charge at this point, and not to mention he wants to fight Raikou. He leaves, hoping to fight the heroes again.^[10]

After he is gone, the heroes secure the Spirit Font. But, just like Takao wasn't in Yoshiwara, Chenggong wasn't here in Akasaka. Also, just as it was in Yoshiwara, the Spirit Font's power flowed into the monsters' leader. Something like that never happened in the previous ritual. It can only be assumed there is a mastermind, presumably either Chiemon or Shousetsu.^[10]

Takeru tries to thinking about why the only Masters they've met have been Chiemon and Shousetsu and why Iori isn't a Master. They're unfortunately unable to think of any possibilities. The heroes head back to Asakusa.^[10]

Later that night, at her abode, Shousetsu calls on Raikou. She tries to ask her a question, only to change her mind and dismiss her. She considers Ritsuka the summoner she has been waiting for, believing with that the Waxing Moon Ritual will be completed.^[10]

Catnip Unbothered by the Winds

At Ueno, the heroes are attacked by Tamamo Cat. She is defeated, and after a moment of silence she decides to offer the heroes her aid. Her gibberish leaves Iori and Takeru speechless.^[11]

After leaving Cat's Abode, Iori assumes she was the Stray Rider Takeru and the Crimson Codex spoke of. Both deny that was her, though thinking about it, Takeru feels it isn't too off the mark.^[11]

The Battle Is Like Surging Waves

The next day, at Iori's home, the Crimson Codex decides the heroes' next destination will be Yokosaka---Dorothea's base. But the issue is it is far from Asakusa, meaning the leyline will be vulnerable to attacks from either Chiemon or Shousetsu. As such, the heroes must prepare for attacks on Spirit Fonts they've secured while still establishing a connection to Yokosaka's leyline.^[12]

But defending the Spirit Fonts by themselves would be too difficult, so they will need to form alliances. Neither Chiemon nor Shousetsu would be willing, though, and there are no other Masters. They must, therefore, rely on the Stray Servants. Fortunately, they have befriended a few already.^[12]

Then, with the warning Chiemon and Shousetsu will be able to track their movements, the Crimson Codex links Asakusa to the Spirit Fonts acquired thus far.^[12]

Raikou reports to Shousetsu that Chaldea has begun to move. Shousetsu orders her to scout their movements.^[12]

Chiemon, meanwhile, decides he and Jeanne will not interfere with Chaldea. They will clean up the "seeds" first. However, while he doesn't want to get involved right now, Chiemon knows they can't sit idly by. He summons ghosts to pester the heroes.^[12]

A Raging God Is Like the Ocean

The heroes arrive at Kanagawa Port near Yokosuka. The Crimson Codex says its Spirit Font is a major one in its own right, so there might be a Stray. Takeru remembers Kanagawa Port was the Stray Archer's base and wonders if that remains true.^[13]

Monsters suddenly show up. Takeru spots the leader, but the Crimson Codex points out there is more than one powerful monster. The heroes proceed to fight the monsters despite the odds.^[13]

Despite all the monsters the heroes have slain, more keep coming. But all of a sudden, Ashwatthama comes in and kills all the monsters, including the powerful ones.^[13]

Under the false assumption they control the monsters, Ashwatthama gets ready to attack the heroes. Ritsuka tries to convince him otherwise, but Ashwattahama assumes because they're a Master in the ritual, that they want to use the Waxing Moon to distort the Singularity. He is too angry to listen to reason, so it seems the heroes will have no choice but to fight him. That is until more monsters appear.^[13]

After all the monsters are slain, Ashwatthama concludes they weren't the heroes' minions. He also realizes the heroes truly know nothing and reveals the Singularity is looping the ritual, distorting the leylines. The monster leaders are loaded with energy from these distorted leylines.^[13]

Iori wonders if it is all Shousetsu's doing. Takeru isn't sure, but regardless, the ritual must be stopped. Ritsuka urges they hurry to Yokosuka.^[13]

Ashwatthama advises the heroes be careful at Yokosuka. He doesn't know if a Master is there when Iori asks about it, but considering it's a major Spirit Font, a Servant could be there. However, it's possible the monsters already killed said Servant.^[13]

Seeing as they seek to end the ritual, Asshwatthama offers the heroes his aid.^[13]

As the Snake Sheds Its Skin, the Oni Is Reborn

Arriving in Yokosuka, the Crimson Codex recalls how Dorothea turned the port town into her workshop. He expects there to be traps and Bounded Fields, but he senses no magical energy at all. But suddenly, he does sense signs of magical energy approaching; snakes appear.^[14]

After the snakes are killed, both the Crimson Codex and Takeru recognize them as the same kind that Assassin used.^[14]

However, the Crimson Codex finds it makes little sense for there not to be a Bounded Field if Yokosuka is supposed to be Dorothea's workshop. Iori thinks it could have been moved and requests the Crimson Codex show them to the workshop.^[14]

The Crimson Codex takes everyone to a foreign ship, yet they find nothing. Monsters then suddenly board the ship, but Mochizuki Chiyome quickly kills them. She informs the heroes Yokosuka's leyline is in disarray and advises them to leave if they value their lives.^[14]

Iori asks her if she is aware of the Master who owns the workshop ship. Chiyome reveals the ship was already here when she was summoned. Furthermore, she hasn't seen any Masteres or humans. The Crimson Codex concludes Dorothea's ship is yet another reproduction.^[14]

Ritsuka is the first living human Chiyome has seen. But she reiterates her warning for the heroes to leave Yokosuka for a fearsome monster lurks in the water. Takeru remembers Ashwatthama said something to that effect.^[14]

Chiyome describes this monster as extraordinary among even those with Servant-like strength. It slumbers now thanks to its connection to the leyline being severed, but it could reawaken at any moment.^[14]

Seeing they need to secure the Spirit Font, the heroes offer to help Chiyome slay this monster. Chiyome is grateful for their assistance when she is suddenly knocked off the ship by Raikou.^[14]

Ritsuka remembers to themselves that Raikou had another True Name. Takeru, calling her Rider, assumes she came to Yokosuka with Shousetsu. Raikou laughs at being called Rider and, after ascending her Spirit Origin, reveals her True Name is Ushi Gozen---Raikou's oni blood manifested. She attacks the heroes after monsters are summoned.^[14]

Slaying the monsters, both Iori and the Crimson Codex conclude Shousetsu couldn't have summoned them as she isn't even in the area. Iori wonders if Ushi Gozen is acting unilaterally.^[14]

Takeru accuses Ushi Gozen of deceiving Shousetsu again. Ushi Gozen denies she is, claiming she and Shousetsu both want to destroy the world's wrongs.^[14]

She creates a storm and proceeds to use the land's magical energy along with that which Shousetsu sends her to awaken the Great Tsuchigumo Kugamimi-no-Mikasa. Mikasa rises out of the water onto to the ship. Ritsuka remembers seeing him in Heian-kyō before the heroes battle him and Ushi Gozen.^[14]

As he is fighting Mikasa, Iori realizes the former isn't a monster with Servant-like strength but a genuine Heroic Spirit. Takeru readies their Noble Phantasm to eliminate Mikasa. Ushi Gozen quickly moves to stop them.^[14]

However, from underwater, Chiyome stops her with her Noble Phantasm and reboards the ship. Takeru takes the opportunity to destroy Mikasa with their Noble Phantasm. The storm then subsides.^[14]

Ushi-Gozen decides to retreat, but Ritsuka stops her, asking what a Hasshoujin of Heian-kyo is doing here. She reveals the Singularity is a plot by the Apostle of the Alien World, the Count, imitating Limbo. She sees no issue with colluding with Chaldea's enemy behind Shousetsu's back as she will destroy all the world's wrongs, including the Alien God.^[14]

She calls Ritsuka very much the same, saying the stench of death will never fade from their soul. Iori advise Ritsuka not to listen to her. Ushi-Gozen leaves, saying they will meet again when the Waxing Moon is full.^[14]

Chiyome thanks the heroes for killing Mikasa. However, she warns Ritsuka to be well prepared if they want to continue the ritual. It has thrown the leylines into disarray, producing distortions throughout the Singularity. Hell shall overflow from the Waxing Moon.^[14]

Later that night, overlooking Edo, Chiemon declares he will once again hell on earth, believing that is why he is in the Singularity. He proclaims himself to be hell and departs with Jeanne, saying he won't let his hell be defiled. Stray Ruler silently looks on.^[14]

Rest in Peace or Smell the Lycoris of Hel

Being overwhelmed by Chiemon and Jeanne, Shousetsu uses a Command Spell to call Ushi Gozen to her side. However, Ushi Gozen does not come, and Jeanne seemingly kills Shousetsu.^[15]

Chiemon now sees how the "mechanism" behind "it" works. He thinks someone else other than Ushi Gozen is responsible. He doesn't care either way because, with Shousetsu's supposed death, the last keystone has been removed. The Bounded Fields thus disperse, opening the way to the center. Chiemon declares now Hell can truly begin.^[15]

Meanwhile, elsewhere, Ushi Gozen regrets someone "beat her to the punch" and wonders what Shousetsu will do now.^[15]

The next day, at his home, Iori thinks other Masters might have replaced the missing Takao, Chenggong, and Dorothea because otherwise, the ritual couldn't be conducted. However, Da Vinci advises proceeding under the assumption the ritual is warped in the Singularity. Also, considering yesterday's report, it's likely that the Count designed the Singularity to trap Chaldea.^[15]

Takeru admittedly only understands that the ritual must be stopped. Ushi Gozen is connected to the Singularity's mastermind, so a confrontation with Shousetsu is inevitable.^[15]

The Crimson Codex agrees with Takeru they should go on the offensive, seeing as they gathered enough telluric energy to not be at a disadvantage. However, it's unlikely Chiemon will stand idly by.^[15]

Suddenly monsters are detected outside. They're related to neither Chiemon nor Shousetsu and were likely attracted by the ritual. They have been strengthed and enraged by the ambient magical energy. The heroes proceed to slay the monsters.^[15]

Ritsuka notes the monsters seemed stronger than usual. The Crimson Codex senses the monsters' magical energy has increased. He concurs with Mash that it could be the result of an abnormality in the ritual since the Waxing Moon caused the overflow of monsters.^[15]

The atmosphere suddenly changes. The heroes follow the magical energy and find the skies above Edo Castle covered with an ominous energy. Stray Ruler reveals Edo Castle is where all of Edo's leylines converge.^[15]

He has come to witness the conclusions reached by those ensnared by the Waxing Moon. He glances over at Iori, saying none of the heroes are exceptions.^[15]

Indirectly, he reveals that Chiemon is about to open Hell's gate. The war is nearing its end, and Hell will spill over into Edo momentarily.^[15]

The Crimson Codex doubts this is the endgame, seeing as the Waxing Moon isn't close to full. It seems Chiemon couldn't wait to make his move.

Regardless, Da Vinci states Edo Castle is the source of the contaminated magical energy spreading. The Singularity will be beyond repair if it's left unchecked, so it needs to be dealt with quickly. The heroes resolve to stop Chiemon. Stray Ruler prays there be light to guide them.^[15]

The Crimson Codex finds Edo Castle is still protected by Bounded Fields. The only way to disable them is to capture the leylines around the castle.^[15]

Suddenly monsters drawn by the castle's magical energy appear. The heroes slay them, but more keep coming. They conclude they must disable the castle's Bounded Fields and move out to capture the leylines around Edo Castle.^[15]

A Beam of Light

The heroes slay monsters in some decrepit neighborhood, but more keep coming. Takeru decides to use their Noble Phantasm when Odysseus suddenly appears and kills all the monsters with Troia Hippos.^[16]

After Ritsuka identifies him, Takeru remembers Circe, the Stray Caster, had mentioned him. Odysseus suspects Circe's previous involvement in the ritual is the connection that summoned him to Edo. He removes his helmet and introduces him as the Stray Rider.^[16]

He already knows the situation, feeling a sinister yet sorrowful wind blowing. He calls the Singularity a prison, saying unable to escape karma, the imprisoned soul repeats his sinful deeds. Takeru assumes he means Chiemon. Odysseus tells Ritsuka it is they who will free him.^[16]

Redonning his helmet, he promises to aid the heroes and flies off.^[16]

Hell's Chiemon Gate - Flames of Resentment

With Chiemon’s Bounded Field down, the heroes are ready to head into Edo Castle. But Iori finds it odd that Shousetsu hasn’t made a move yet. He wonders if she is waiting for an opportunity or if they overlooked something. Regardless, the heroes hurry to reach Edo Castle’s keep through Otemon Gate.^[17]

They’re ambushed by ghosts at the gate, though, and thus forced to fight.^[17]

Chiemon senses the heroes have made it through the gate. But it doesn’t matter to him and prepares to head to the keep with Jeanne.^[17]

Jeanne comments the keep is already overflowing with corruption. Chiemon calls it a farce, revealing the Waxing Moon to be an imitation of the original. He questions how it could make for a functioning ritual. But Jeanne comments the original Waxing Moon pales in comparison to the calamity brought upon by its imitation. Chiemon is utterly disgusted by it.^[17]

Demonic puppets approach. Chiemon is certain the Singularity is hell, so he questions why they (the puppets) insist on acting self-indulgently. He kills the puppets, telling them to let go of their attachments since they’ve already sunk into hell.^[17]

Female ghosts appear immediately afterward. Chiemon and Jeanne destroy them together, though it takes longer than expected. Jeanne is certain the heroes will catch up to them. Chiemon decides he and Jeanne will meet them head-on, wanting to remove Iori’s facade before he lets Hell descend.^[17]

The heroes arrive at Edo Castle. Takeru identifies the red spilling all over as the Waxing Moon’s corruption. Ritsuka wonders if this means Chiemon has already obtained the Waxing Moon.^[17]

The Crimson Codex explains in order for the Waxing Moon to descend, its vessel must be filled with the souls of Heroic Spirits. He had assumed Shousetsu had the Vessel. Ritsuka guesses Chiemon had defeated Shousetsu and stolen the Vessel. Takeru says the only way to know for sure is to get answers from the man responsible and calls out Chiemon.^[17]

Chiemon shows himself, incredulous that the heroes haven’t noticed the truth about the ritual. Iori asks him what he knows about it, but Chiemon asks Iori why he doesn’t already know the answer. He wonders if Iori has a curse interfering with his mind. Ritsuka questions what the point of that would be.^[17]

But Chiemon doesn’t care about the others’ circumstances as he plans to open the gates of hell with the Waxing Moon overflowing with corruption. He will not let anyone interfere. Jeanne fights the heroes.^[17]

Jeanne is eventually cornered. Iori moves to presumably finish her off, but Chiemon stops and burns him. Ritsuka tries to go help him when Jeanne on Chiemon’s orders unleashes her Noble Phantasm, Tritesse de la Vierge. It hits Takeru, cursing them with the grudges of the deceased.^[17]

Ritsuka contemplates helping either helping Iori or Takeru. But Iori reassures Ritsuka he can take on Chiemon by himself. He fights him while Ritsuka and Takeru continue fighting Jeanne.^[17]

Iori wounds Chiemon with his Void Stance technique. Chiemon asks Iori who he is, knowing his true nature is that of a demon hidden beneath a polite facade. But he asks Iori what he is right now, surprised that he not only reverted to a spineless whelp but discarded his very substance as well. He questions if he really is Iori to the latter’s shock.^[17]

It disgusts him because he wanted to tear off Iori’s facade only to learn there is nothing underneath. He has lost all interest in Iori, though he still sickens him. Iori is just a hindrance now, so Chiemon wants him dead.^[17]

The two of them charge at each other when they’re interrupted by Shousetsu, all but confirming Iori’s suspicions that she had been monitoring them. Shousetsu doesn’t know how Chiemon brought forth such calamity without the Waxing Moon’s Vessel, but she declares an end to his schemes.^[17]

Chiemon challenges her to stop it and moves to douse himself in the Waxing Moon’s corruption. Declaring he will become the curse itself and burn the Singularity to the ground, Chiemon is transformed into a red Black Giant. Iori and Shousetsu join forces to put an end to Chiemon and the corruption.^[17]

With Chiemon’s demise, the corruption covering Edo Castle disappears. Jeanne mourns the loss of her Master. Ushi Gozen arrives and asks Jeanne, with Chiemon defeated, how she will proceed.^[17]

Jeanne warns Chaldea that the Singularity is a trap meant for them, with the Waxing Moon Ritual being the means. She says only they can stop it and retreats, imploring them to remember this. Shousetsu declines to have her pursued since with her Master gone she will disappear in due time.^[17]

With their temporary alliance dissolved, Iori asks Shousetsu if she wants to end things now. Shousetsu declines. She believes the heroes have secured enough Spirit Fonts to gain the power needed to oppose her and Ushi Gozen. She therefore wants to decide to fair and square who is superior.^[17]

She shows she possesses the Waxing Moon’s Vessel and challenges the heroes to a duel for it. She considers it a demonstration of her responsibility, feeling she cannot move forward if she doesn’t cut ties with this causality of destiny.^[17]

The heroes accept her challenge despite the Crimson Codex’s concerns that it might be a ploy of Shousetsu’s. Shousetsu tells them the duel will take place tomorrow evening at the place where the Waxing Moon Ritual come to a head for her---Senso-ji Temple.^[17]

Dreaming of Fate

A flashback shows after losing in the previous ritual Shousetsu found herself at Senso-ji Temple. She lamented she had accomplished nothing in the end, concluding the path of peace cannot dwell in a body that is just a puppet of flesh. She had lost everything---her ideal, her wish, her prayers, even her most secret feelings.^[18]

An apparition appeared before her, telling her she has no other recourse but to begin the world anew. Shousetsu slashed it away after it called itself her ideal. Only for it to reappear, telling her she hadn’t yet resigned herself nor stopped advancing. Then, taking Iori’s form, it repeated what he said to her, calling her desire for a truly peaceful world beautiful.^[18]

Shousetsu slashed away at the apparition again. But it reappeared yet again in her form and presented her with the Waxing Moon’s Vessel. It told her the Waxing Moon Ritual wasn’t over yet and that she must repeat it until her ideal is reached and the Waxing Moon is filled. Shousetsu took the Waxing Moon’s Vessel as if in a trance. The apparition disappeared, declaring “this time with the Waxing Moon---let the flowers of this hell bloom”.^[18]

Coming out of her trance, Shousetsu called out to Ushi Gozen. Ushi Gozen materialized and agreed to join Shousestsu in the Waxing Moon Ritual, swearing fealty to her all for the sake of her wish.^[18]

The next day in the present, Goredolf congratulates the heroes for defeating Chiemon, though he feels the situation hasn’t improved much. Da Vinci disagrees, seeing as Shousetsu seems to be the only Master left, so the Waxing Moon Ritual should be nearing its end. Yet despite that, Sion states they know almost nothing about the Singularity thanks to the enemy interfering with the analysis.^[18]

Mash is interested in what Jeanne had mentioned. Da Vinci notes Jeanne and Chiemon both seemed to have their own theory about the Singularity. Unfortunately, there is no way of asking them.^[18]

Takeru is more concerned about tonight---the upcoming duel with Shousetsu. Goredolf worries it could be a trap, but the Crimson Codex is certain Shousetsu would never use underhanded tactics. Iori agrees with him even though he has no memory of Shousetsu.^[18]

But Takeru finds Shousetsu is acting strange right as if all of this was too thought out. For starters, it’s strange for her to ally with Ushi Gozen again, considering what happened in the last ritual. Shousetsu should know Ushi-Gozen is an Anti-Hero who can’t be stopped by Command Spells.^[18]

Da Vinci thinks it could be a matter of cognitive interference if the Singularity is an enemy trap. Iori wonders if that is why he had no memories of the ritual. Da Vinci thinks it’s possible but advises against jumping to conclusions.^[18]

Regardless, everyone agrees Ushi Gozen is the main issue. Takeru is confident they can best her, even should her Noble Phantasm appear. Da Vinci still recommends having a countermeasure ready, though.^[18]

Suddenly, the Bounded Field detects someone approaching. The heroes go out to respond and are surprised to see it is Shousetsu. She has come alone and her coming to Iori’s home is merely for personal reasons. Their duel is still on for tonight but before that she wants to talk.

Depending on player choice, Shousetsu will want to talk with either Iori or Ritsuka. If it is Iori, she wants to inquire of him once more why he fights in the ritual, unaware he has no memories of the ritual. If it is Ritsuka, she wants to personally know their true nature instead of just going off what Ushi Gozen told her. Regardless of who is chosen they and Shousetsu walk the streets of Asakusa together while Takeru and the one who wasn't chosen tail them.^[18]

If Iori is chosen, Shousetsu learns he has no memories of the ritual. Even so, she demands to know his wish, certain he has one even if he cannot recall the past. She doesn’t believe him when he says he has no wish. She is well aware of the wish he once asked the Waxing Moon and believes since he appeared in the Singularity as a Master his wish remains the same.^[18]

Iori informs her he is not a Master, proving it by showing he has no Command Spells. Shousetsu gets a headache after seeing he truly has no Command Spells. Iori also informs her that Takeru had been summoned as another Stray. Shousetsu accepts Iori was telling her the truth.^[18]

Explaining he fights alongside Ritsuka to stop the ritual, Iori concludes Shousetsu has no intention of laying down her arms even though the Waxing Moon Ritual had always been heresy and the ritual in the Singularity is an obvious. He also tells her that Ushi Gozen (calling her Rider) isn’t worth her trust and wouldn’t be surprised if she is scheming something.^[18]

Shousetsu replies that even if Rider was duplicitous, she has no intention of relinquishing the Waxing Moon. She remembers Iori once told her that her wish cannot be achieved through normal means. She lost the ritual before and that should’ve been the end of it, but by some miracle, she has another chance. Thus, she will not resign, declaring she will defeat Ritsuka and acquire the Waxing Moon.^[18]

But she thinks Iori is the one who should quit, not wanting to fight him since he isn’t a Master. Iori, however, has no intention of backing down, as that goes against the path of peace. Shousetsu wonders if those words are true for the current Iori.^[18]

Nevertheless, she declares the time for talk is over. From this point on, they will only inquire through battle. She leaves, saying she will wait at Senso-ji Temple.^[18]

Iori calls out for Ritsuka and Takeru to come out, considering it rude of them to have tailed him and Shousetsu. But now they all undestand they have no other choice but to fight Shousetsu. Ritsuka recommends being wary of Ushi Gozen.^[18]

Takeru is quiet for a bit but tells Iori it’s nothing. Iori walks away after agreeing with Takeru to end the ritual together. Alone, Takeru realizes they and Shousetsu have the same perspective on Iori.^[18]

If Ritsuka is chosen, Shousetsu learns they were born into a peaceful world and combat isn't part of their breeding. But she asks them what drives them to fight so hard. Ritsuka answers they were in the wrong place at the wrong time, so they're doing whatever they can. Shousetsu feels it is similar for her. The sight of how irrational and hellish is spurred her to correct its distortions.^[18]

But Ritsuka tells her the Waxing Moon is dangerous, and Ushi Gozen is up to something. Shousetsu questions where the gyuuki Raikou defeated fits into all this. She is confused when Ritsuka tells her it's related to Rider's true identity. She gets a sudden headache when she tries to ask why, vaguely recalling she lost the ritual.^[18]

Yet despite admitting Rider isn't a normal Heroic Spirit and she also senses a tremendous demonic nature from her, Shousetsu proclaims she and Rider are inseparable, for they share the same wish. If a oni hides in Rider, she asserts the two of them will keep it under control.^[18]

Later, as dusk sets in, Shousetsu asks Ritsuka for their opinion on Iori. She knows the two of them had joined forces to recover the Waxing Moon, but she asks what comes after she is defeated. The two of them will have to settle the dispute after all.^[18]

Surprised, Ritsuka informs her that Iori isn't even a Master. Shousetsu refuses to believe them, believing so long as he has appeared in the Singularity, Iori must have a wish for the Waxing Moon. Because he has a wish, he and Ritsuka cannot stand together for long, though Shousetsu admits it is the same for her. She therefore warns Ritsuka to be wary of others because only one pair can remain at the end.^[18]

While they appreciate Shousetsu's warning, Ritsuka says they will fight with Iori to the end because if he does have a wish, they want to see it through.^[18]

Shousetsu admits her plan to divide the heroes has failed. She declares from this point on they will only inquire through battle. She leaves, saying she will wait at Senso-ji Temple.^[18]

Untold Flowers Divide the Sky

The heroes arrive at Senso-ji Temple at night for their scheduled duel with Shousetsu. She proclaims the Waxing Moon's Vessel is nearly filled and calls the heroes the sacrifices that will mark the ritual's conclusion.^[19]

RItsuka, pointing out they outnumber her, asks Shousetsu if she is giving them a handicap. Shousetsu replies she is not, asserting she naturally has a plan. She immediately executes said plan by summoning four Shadow Servants through exploiting a loophole in the ritual's inner workings. Considering them all worthy opponents, Shousetsu fights the heroes with Ushi Gozen and her Shadow Servants.^[19]

Iori defeats Shousetsu. She drops the Waxing Moon's Vessel, but the Crimson Codex feels something is off.^[19]

Takeru defeats Ushi Gozen. Shosetsu tries to get up to help her, but Iori threatens her to not move, telling her the outcome is decided. Shousetsu tells him to kill her, but he refuses, seeing no more meaning in this battle. He informs her Chaldea will retrieve the Waxing Moon's Vessel, and with that, the Singularity will disappear. He proclaims the ritual over.^[19]

The Crimson Codex, however, reveals the Waxing Moon's Vessel is a fake and accuses Shousetsu of deceiving them. But Shousetsu seems confused by this revelation.^[19]

Still alive, Ushi Gozen tells Shousetsu that she lost. Takeru sees they failed to kill her but believes her magical energy is exhausted and declares this is the end. Ushi Gozen agrees and charges forward. But while it seems her target is Ritsuka, she instead mortally wounds Shousetsu.^[19]

Ushi Gozen declares she cannot achieve victory with "this" Shousetsu nor can she kill the heroes if she continues pretending to be Raikou. She thus announces her True Name, showing she still has power left, and proclaims she will use the wish-granting power to destroy all the wrongs of the world.^[19]

Shousetsu gets up and orders Ushi Gozen by all three Command Spells to kill herself. However, it does not work as Ushi Gozen reveals Shousetsu isn't a Master. Shousetsu refuses to believe it and shows her Command Spells as proof, unaware that nothing is there. Iori wonders if this is what Chiemon meant when he questioned if he (Iori) had a curse interfering with his mind. Takeru concludes Chiemon wasn’t a Master as well and questions if there is not one other Master in the Singularity.^[19]

Ushi Gozen reveals the only Master or more precisely, the only living person in the Singularity is Ritsuka. Only the dead—only Servants can be called to the Singularity. Ushi Gozen reveals Shousetsu is the Stray Caster and Iori concludes he is the Stray Saber.^[19]

Shousetsu considers it preposterous that she would be a Heroic Spirit. Ushi Gozen says it is not, for only the dead can tread upon in this land that is hell itself. She then calls upon something to cast off its disguise and show its true form, proclaiming the Waxing Moon shines above them all.^[19]

Everyone watches as Edo Castle turns into a Fantasy Tree, much to Ritsuka’s shock. Ushi Gozen calls it the true vessel of the Waxing Moon: Counterfeit Fantasy Tree Waxing Moon.^[19]

Remnants of a Samurai - Inferno

Ushi Gozen declares the Waxing Moon shall soon be full and the Tree shall bloom. Sion realizes the Tree was why TRISMEGISTUS II doubted its observational data of the Singularity. Da Vinci finds the situation similar to what happened in Heian-kyo, meaning Edo is about to become a new Lostbelt. She wonders how the enemy could have so easily deceived them.^[20]

The Count’s voice responds, declining to expose the trick. Fantasy Tree Seeds come crashing down. The Count says it would be most uninspired if the Element’s puppet-play was the only spectacle in his repertoire. He insists he was rather meticulous about tonight’s “play” and asks Chaldea if it meets their approval.^[20]

Goredolf criticizes him for calling his “play” meticulous when it’s plagiarized from Limbo. The Count requests he watch the performance until the very end. The Seeds then attack.^[20]

Much to the confusion of the heroes, each Seed had turned into Shousetsu. The Count takes his leave, telling Ushi Gozen to do what she will and declaring he shall usher Chaldea onto the next stage of the venue. Ushi Gozen remarks there will no “next” for she will wipe out everything.^[20]

Shousetsu asks why the Seeds all turned into her. Ushi Gozen tells her she should know already, revealing she is a manufactured existence and was never a person to begin with. She is a homunculus created from western alchemy by Souiken. Every fiber of her being was created to embody and that purity of hers was elevated into a Noble Phantasm when he became a Heroic Spirit. Shousetsu collapses and disappears.^[20]

Ushi Gozen commends Shousetsu. She was defeated once again, but Ushi Gozen tells her not to lose faith. She can try again and again because, after all, they are plenty of spares.^[20]

More Seeds crash down, each turning into Shousetsu. Ushi Gozen tells Shousetsu to rejoice, proclaiming the Waxing Moon shall at last be satisfied. She retreats after the Shousetsues surround the heroes. The Shousetsues then attack, leaving the heroes no choice but to fight.^[20]

The heroes return to Iori’s home following the battle. There Da Vinci states Chaldea’s objective has changed from retrieving the Waxing Moon as a Grail to felling a Fantasy Tree. The problem is how to cut down this particular Tree as Mash sees nothing in Chaldea’s records that could help. But Takeru is confident they can cut it down, seeing it not all that different from Ushi Gozen’s great monster.^[20]

Agreeing the situation is similar, the Crimson Codex states because of Edo Castle’s transformation into a Fantasy Tree, all of Edo’s leylines are in an upheaval. The castle sits atop where the leylines confluence, so the Tree is rapidly absorbing all of Edo’s telluric energy. t has stockpiled a tremendous amount of energy and has put up a powerful Bounded Field.^[20]

Takeru understands all they need to do is to sever the Spirit Fonts connected to the Tree. Sion, observing the magical energy flowing to the Tree, locates Spirit Fonts in the four cardinal directions. Otemon Gate to the east, Tayasumon Gate to the north, Hanzomon Gate to the west, and Sakuradamon Gate to the south. Once the heroes cut off the energy flowing from these Spirit Fonts, the way will be open to the Tree.^[20]

With not a lot of time left before the Tree blooms, Iori concludes they will have to split up. Ritsuka agrees to take Tayasumon per Da Vinci’s proposal. Takeru decides to go to Sakuradamon and Iori decides to go to Otemon. As for Hanzomon, the Crimson Codex suggests leaving it to the Stray when Jeanne surprisingly offers to go there instead.^[20]

She confirms Chiemon wasn’t her Master by admitting she was just another Stray Servant summoned to the Singularity. As for why she is siding with the heroes, it is the prevent the disaster that would be brought about by the Waxing Moon. The Crimson Codex finds that hard to believe however when she had dedicated herself to opening Hell.^[20]

Jeanne confesses she remembers the previous ritual. She wanted to witness the end of Chiemon and if he sought Hell, then the two of them would have fallen together. Takeru surmises it is pointless now with Chiemon dead, to which Jeanne remains silent.^[20]

Mash remembers Jeanne warned them and asks if she and Chiemon were aware of everything this whole time. Jeanne responds that she and Chiemon did not desire the Hell brought about by the Tree.^[20]

She then reveals Ashwatthama and Chiyome have also pledged their support and will soon arrive. She requests Hanzonmon be left to the three of them. The Crimson Codex deduces this is what she had been doing while they were fighting Shousetsu.

With everyone's assignments clear, Goredolf orders the heroes to secure those four Spirit Fonts, then cut down Fantasy Tree Waxing Moon posthaste.^[20]

But Jeanne warns Shousetsu or a double of her born from the Seeds guards Edo Castle’s Bounded Field and the four Spirit Fonts. Shousetsu is a tool for mindlessly continuing the ritual, a poor soul that remains a prisoner to Waxing Moon as a Servant. Jeanne thus tells the others not to hesitant against her, for there is no saving her now. After a brief silence, everyone heads out to put a stop to Shousestsu.^[20]

Remnants of a Samurai - Purgatorio

Iori notices Takeru trying to secretly watch him practice. Takeru confirms their preparations are complete when Iori asks if they’re ready to depart. But Iori notices something seems to be bothering Takeru.^[21]

Takeru notes Iori isn’t disturbed whatsoever about a Servant. Iori admits it honestly doesn’t feel real. Even if he’s called a Heroic Spirit, he is nothing compared to the likes of Takeru and Ushi Gozen. But when he realized it, it felt as natural as breathing. He understands it means dead, but from Ritsuka’s perspective, a living person from a future era, he is a human from a bygone era.^[21]

He then asks Takeru if he was defeated in the previous ritual. Takeru hesitates before telling Iori they fought together to the end and for them, that’s all it comes down to. Iori decides to leave it at that. He and Takeru then go join Ritsuka to truly put an end to the Waxing Moon Ritual.^[21]

Later everyone, the heroes and the Strays, commence the operation to secure the four Spirit Fonts.^[21]

Waxing Moon Siege

At Hanzomon Gate, Jeanne, Chiyome, and Ashwatthama are confronted by multiple Shousetsues. Chiyome wonders which one is the leader guarding the Spirit Font, but Jeanne reveals they’re all the same. It seems Shousetsu’s presence has merged with the greater area, so without defeating all the doubles, the leyline cannot be severed. Jeanne, Chiyome, and Ashwatthama proceed to defeat the Shousetsues and sever the leyline.^[22]

At Tayasumon Gate, Ritsuka, Odysseus, and Cat are immediately confronted by oni that suddenly manifested. The Shousetsu guarding the Spirit Font summons monsters to eliminate the three in order to protect the Waxing Moon.^[22]

Ritsuka, Odysseus, and Cat defeat her and the monsters and sever the leyline. They’re disturbed, however, by the true face of the Fantasy Tree. Odysseus tells Ritsuka not to share this information with everyone and to save their anger for the very end.^[22]

At Otemon Gate, Iori, Li Shuwen, and Spartacus are confronted by a Shousetsu who seems to believe she and Iori are competing in the ritual. Though ever so slightly hesitant, Iori accepts there is nothing way but to kill her. Shousetsu calls forth Rider (a demonic warrior) and fights the three. She is ultimately defeated, and the leyline is severed.^[22]

At Sakuradamon Gate, Takeru and Sétanta are confronted by a Shousetsu who is seemingly aware she is being forced to repeat the ritual. She then calls for Rider, prompting Seeds to come crashing down to assist her. Takeru accepts nothing can be done for her and fights her with Sétanta, telling her they will slay her lingering attachment.^[22]

Shousetsu is defeated, and the leyline is severed. She disappears, regretting that she had misjudged. Takeru is certain they both witnessed the same conclusion yet despite that she is still bound to the Waxing Moon…to that night.^[22]

Slay Every God You See

Enemy reinforcements arrive at the four games. Jeanne, Iori, Takeru, and Ritsuka leave their respective groups and head for the Tree while the Strays fend off the enemy.^[23]

It is revealed Souiken designed Shousetsu to perfectly embody those who ought to live in the Kingdom of Heaven—a new humanity to replace the current one. She was meant to be replicated without limit to fill the world with Souiken’s ideals and kill all those who were broken and twisted. The insane Souiken’s ideals were never realized, but now with the Waxing Moon reaching into cosmos, that impossible fantasy can become reality.^[23]

Calling it the apex of Souiken’s Christian sorcery and the end of his dream, Ushi Gozen reveals Fantasy Tree Waxing Moon is the result of Shousetsu’s Nobe Phantasm: Pancupadanakkhandha Dukkha - Ephemeral Silhouette, showing the Tree is made of countless Shousetsues.^[23]

The heroes confront Ushi Gozen at the base of the Tree. Da Vinci calls Shousetsu’s ability to infinitely self-replicate to overrun the world a dysfunctional system that should have never been sublimated into a Noble Phantasm. But now Shousetsu is a Fantasy Tree, so between the Waxing Moon’s magical energy and the Tree’s very nature, the impossible becomes possible.^[23]

Ushi Gozen claims Shousetsu has offered her body to the Waxing Moon for the sake of her wish. She declares she too will dedicate her soul to it, proclaiming together she and Shousetsu will destroy this unrighteous world.^[23]

Seeds come crashing down and turn into Shousetsu, proclaiming she will bring true peace to this world. Ushi Gozen, demanding the heroes submit to divine will, calls on the divine messenger and battles the heroes, declaring the Tree will remake the world per her and Shousetsu’ will.^[23]

As the heroes struggle against her, Ushi Gozen changes into her third Ascension, proving despite being cut off from the leylines she still has overwhelming power. The sight of Ritsuka struggling delights her and asks if their desire to right those wrongs in the end is why they destroyed so many. She demands they show their real self, sensing they possess the power to destroy the world by using and smashing fate, even able to slay gods.^[23]

The Chaldeans conclude she is talking about the Black Barrel. Sion calls it a blessing in disguise Mash didn’t accompany Ritsuka this time then. Da Vnci thinks that is why Mash, who carries the Black Barrel, wasn’t able to rayshift.^[23]

Stepping closer to them, Ushi Gozen tells Ritsuka their power will bulwark the Waxing Moon as well. Together they shall destroy the world anywhere they choose. Iori attacks her, demanding she get away from Ritsuka, but she easily counterattacks.^[23]

More Seeds come down and turn into Shousetsu. They grab Ritsuka, ready to embed them into the Waxing Moon so the Tree can bloom into a true hell according to Ushi Gozen. Goredolf, however, questions the sense of taking Ritsuka when they do not even have the Black Barrel. Ushi Gozen doesn’t hear him and just raves about destruction.^[23]

Taking advantage of the situation, Jeanne kills the Shousetsues and uses Flamme Pays Étranger on Ushi Gozen. But Ushi Gozen is unbothered by the flames, telling Jeanne they’d have actual heat if she were a true avenger. She surmises Jeanne is incapable of cursing the world and requires being compelled by a Command Spell to unleash this Noble Phantasm. As it stands, it is an act of self-destruction that burns her alone, prompting Ushi Gozen to ask Jeanne if she is deluded.^[23]

Jeanne proclaims her flames are the fires of hell…and his impetus. If it truly was hellfire, it would never have gotten past him. Ushi Gozen is confused by what Jeanne is talking about when Jeanne tells Chiemon to “do it now”.^[23]

Ushi Gozen is suddenly injured. A voice criticizes her for letting her oni nature get the best of her when she stopped pretending to be human. Accompanied by flames, telling Ushi Gozen that her ceasing to be Raikou is her downfall, Chiemon reveals himself.^[23] Everyone (except Jeanne) is shocked to see Chiemon alive, even though his Spirit Core was certainly destroyed. He wasn’t resurrected, however, rather just like Shimabara, he had failed to die. That is the nature of his Noble Phantasm, which he dubs “Chiemon the Undying”.^[23]

Jeanne disappears, praying for Chiemon’s soul to rest in peace. Chiemon doubts Heaven would let him in, nor does he want in there anyway. But he tells Ushi Gozen he can drag down her to Hell with him and unleashes flames at her.^[23]

His flames hurt Ushi Gozen. Chiemon tells her she isn’t the only one who’s connected to the Waxing Moon. His Spirit Origin falls short of a Heroic Spirit, but he can still sacrifice himself. He refuses to acknowledge the Hell Ushi Gozen wants to make with the Waxing Moon and vows his vengeful flames will pulverize that wish of hers. With Ushi Gozen weakened by Chiemon’s flame, the heroes battle her for the last time.^[23]

Ushi Gozen is defeated and disappears, hoping someday she will right everything and that she will meet Ritsuka again. Chiemon confesses he only wanted to see his dead family again, certain they’d be in Hell, but no one was there. He refuses to go where they actually went and disappears, saying Hell is just for him.^[23]

The Moon Furthest From Heaven

The Tree is nearing completion. Da Vinci warns if it is completed, the Waxing Moon will flood across the world. She therefore implores Ritsuka to cut down the Tree immediately. Iori, recalling they boasted they could cut it, requests Takeru to destroy it.^[24]

However, encouraged by Ritsuka, Takeru confesses they want to save Shousetsu. It may be excess, but their current self refuses to forsake Shousetsu. Goredolf and the Crimson Codex both sympathize. However, it is already too late for Shousetsu now she has become a Fantasy Tree.^[24]

Stray Ruler arrives, calling it meaningless to save Shousetsu now that she is a Heroic Spirit. If she were to manifest elsewhere, she would surely repeat her failed efforts to realize her failures. Salvation from Takeru would thus hold no meaning whatsoever.^[24]

Ritsuka, however, asserts there is meaning to it, even when it’s all over and nothing remains. Mash agrees, asserting Chaldea’s battle is a journey to prove this point. She will continue to hope and believe.^[24]

Bolstered by Ritsuka’s words, Takeru reaffirms they will save Shousetsu, even if the idea is nothing more than an excess only their current self would bear. Iori calls Takeru’s wish the moral and humane path. He considers it the right way to bring this all to an end, so he will join them. The Crimson Codex naturally agrees to join as well.^[24]

The Tree’s growth advances even further. Da Vinci warns if it isn’t stopped now there will be no world left to save. Fortunately, Stray Rule stops it with his Noble Phantasm, a giant wheel of light. He reveals his True Name is King Ashoka, and while he manifested to bear witness to the souls ensnared by the Waxing Moon‘s hell, he now must witness where the heroes’ answer will take them.^[24]

Da Vinci calls Ashoka the ideal king of India and an upholder of Dharma and deduces his Noble Phantasm is Chakravartin. Ashoka affirms while he has materialized as a mere Stray Servant, his desire to bring salvation to all things remains unabated. He encourages the heroes to go rescue Shousetsu while he keeps the Tree at bay, revealing her true body is ensnared within the Waxing Moon. He prays there be light for them to wish by. With the Tree’s propagation stopped, the heroes set forth to save Shousetsu, doing battle with the Tree itself.^[24]

At the battle’s climax, Takeru locates where Shousetsu is in the Tree. Iori, thinking to himself, laments even in the end, he still couldn’t remember anything about the previous ritual. He realizes as a dead man, though, he can never get back what it was he yearned for or what he lost. Even so, he feels there is still something left to fill the void in him. He looks at Takeru and remarks they are truly beautiful.^[24]

Takeru strikes the Tree with Amenomurakumo-no-Tsurugi. Da Vinci states Amenomurakumo is also known as Kusangi—the Grass Cutter, that which fans the winds that spread the flame. In other words, it is a Noble Phantasm that only shows its true power when used to stop a disaster just like was observed in Heian-kyō. Amenomurakumo has cleaved the Tree open, so Takeru and Iori head in there to rescue Shousetsu.^[24]

Meanwhile, inside the Tree, the true Shousetsu laments that she once again was transfixed by the Waxing Moon and led astray by Ushi Gozen. Her battle ended long ago, but trapped by her convictions, she still sought to shed yet more blood. Her wish has been reduced to a curse that will destroy the world. Recalling when Iori told her that her wish would come true even without the Waxing Moon, she calls herself pathetic for failing to realize it.^[24]

A faint light suddenly appears in the darkness. Shousetsu thinks it’s moonlight, remarking how the moon remains unsullied by darkness and how she never noticed how pure and clear its light is. The light shines even more. Shousetsu realizes it isn’t moonlight, rather it is the very spirit of peace.^[24]

Takeru and Iori appear with outstretched hands, imploring Shousetsu to give them hers. Shousetsu is surprised to see Takeru stays by Iori’s side even after seeing that end. She accepts it, realizing even if the light of the moon is cold, it is still the light that cuts through the darkness. She then gives Takeru and Iori her hand.^[24]

To You Who Lets Go Of My Hand and Leaves

Shousetsu wakes up in Iori’s home. He informs her that Takeru had cut down the Tree, thereby ending the ritual. Shousetsu asks for forgiveness as it was she who started all this. Her distorted convictions had brought the world to the brink.^[25]

The Crimson Codex says with the Tree gone, the Singularity will soon disappear. There is a small reprieve before then, though. It won’t be long, but the Crimson Codex thinks it will be a good time to relax.^[25]

Shousetsu asks Iori why he saved her. Iori tells her she should thank Takeru and Ritsuka as they were frantic to rescue her while he only offered his support. Shousetsu calls it indulgent to risk dooming the world for her. Iori agrees it was indulgent, but that’s what makes it the moral and humane path. Shousetsu tells Iori, however, that the moral path cannot be his wish, which Iori agrees with. He is certain he had his own wish, but he says that is behind him now and leaves.^[25]

All the Strays disappear and the Crimson Codex goes to sleep later that night.^[25]

Ritsuka, Iori, and Takeru find Shousetsu at Senso-ji Temple. Remarking she is finally free, Shousetsu begs the heroes for their forgiveness. She at first thinks there is no way she can make amends but immediately admits that isn’t true. She is grateful to the heroes for rescuing her.^[25]

Despite feeling his words may ring hollow since he has no memories of the ritual, Iori tells Shousetsu her desire for a truly peaceful world beautiful. It is something he could never picture.^[25]

Shousetsu gives the Waxing Moon to Iori. Starting to disappear, she notes she continued to hold on to her wish even after becoming a Heroic Spirit. She may again become a slave to her convictions and be manipulated by Ushi Gozen’s honeyed words, worrying her that piling foolish schemes may be part of her Spirit Origin. Ritsuka promises they will be there to stop it and rescue her every time. Pleased to hear that, Shousetsu disappears, certain she will continue even if the solution is far away.^[25]

Iori, thinking about what he had yearned for, hesitates to hand the Waxing Moon over to Ritsuka, much to Takeru’s concern. Ultimately, though, he gives it to Ritsuka. Takeru is dumbstruck, but they do not divulge why, confusing Iori.^[25]

Looking up at the moon, Iori thinks about how thought he was missing what made him who he is. He had felt like an empty vessel, feeling no rage, grief, pain, or emptiness, and only the moonlight seemed to fill the void inside him. But now he is certain it had already been filled, for his wish had come true. He lived life how he wanted and so left behind his wish.^[25]

Out loud, he concludes his yearning for the moon wasn’t something that needed to be fulfilled more than once. But he thinks to himself if he, as a Heroic Spirit, had another wish within himself, it would be to have a companion. Saying the latter out loud, Iori disappears, still looking up at the moon.^[25]

Takeru asks Iori if he said something, only for them and Ritsuka to turn and see he is already gone. Smiling, Takeru looks up at the moon, concurring with the absent Iori that the moon tonight is especially brilliant.^[25]

Remnants of a Samurai - Risposta

Iori finds himself in a place with no moon with the sleeping Crimson Codex when he is suddenly attacked by an apparition of the female Musashi. He defeats her, and she disappears with a smile. Stars then shine in the distance. Iori follows them, realizing the moon isn’t needed when one can be guided by the light of the stars.^[26]

Locations

Participants

Servants

Designation	Identity	Affiliation
Saber	Miyamoto Iori
Saber	Yamato TakeruWP
Avenger	Ushi Gozen	Yui Shousetsu (false) The Count (true)
Caster	Yui Shousetsu	Ushi Gozen
Lancer	Chiemon	Jeanne d'Arc
Lancer	Jeanne d'ArcWP	Chiemon
Saber	SétantaWP
Berserker	SpartacusWP
Archer	AshwatthamaWP
Lancer	Li ShuwenWP
Assassin	Mochizuki ChiyomeWP
Berserker	Tamamo Cat
Rider	OdysseusWP
Ruler	AshokaWP

Non-Servants

Designation	Identity	Affiliation
Grimoire	Crimson Codex	Miyamoto Iori
Fantasy Tree	Waxing Moon

References

Grand Order
Singularities
Grand Orders: Fuyuki Singularity • Orleans Singularity • Septem Singularity • Okeanos Singularity • London Singularity • North American Singularity • Camelot Singularity • Babylonia Singularity • Solomon Singularity Remnant Orders: Shinjuku Singularity • Agartha Singularity • Shimosa Singularity • Salem Singularity • SE.RA.PH. Singularity
Lostbelts
Russian Lostbelt • Norse Lostbelt • Chinese Lostbelt • Indian Lostbelt • Atlantic Lostbelt • Heian-kyō Lostbelt • British Lostbelt • South American Lostbelt
Ordeal Calls
Inner World of Paper Moon • Inescapable Gehenna • Moon Dubai • Reckoning Singularity • Presidential Singularities
Events
Garden of Order • Prison Tower Château d'If • Fate/Accel Zero Order • Heian Distortion • Prisma Causeway • Meiji Restoration Singularity • Inheritance of Glory • Murder at the Kogetsukan • Imperial Tokyo Singularity • Edo Singularity • Edo Singularity (Illusory Waxing Moon) • Patchwork London Singularity • Sengoku Singularity • Board Game Apocalypse • Yamatai-koku Singularity • Imaginary Scramble • Showa Restoration Singularity • Tunguska Special Territory • Traum Singularity