The establishment of the Time Travelers Alliance began in the first year of Conan

Chapter 413 Error Request... Cannot add characters involving save files after the option (Requesting monthly votes)

The path called "Soul Materialization" is slowly closing.

In the sky, the holes overflowing with black mud emitted a terrifying sound, like the night wind blowing through the jagged rocks by the sea.

Those purple strands of hair tried to entwine the dark red void, attempting to prevent it from closing.

The endless flow of black mud tried to pry open the increasingly narrow pipe.

However, no matter how hard it struggles, the very source of its existence now appears so weak and powerless under Ilya's restrictions—

They are no better than sewage in a sewer.

Almost instantly, the exposed "Sea of ​​Endless Resentment" became water without roots.

The black mud, which symbolized evil intentions, became impatient and agitated.

Black Cherry manipulated the ever-evaporating ocean, unleashing a devastating force and immense power as it crashed into the besieged hut.

But her efforts were completely in vain.

If we say that the black mud called "the evil of this world" has a great restraining effect on all heroic spirits.

Now that Ilya has mastered the Third Magic, she has an innate control over this creation, which also relies on the materialization of the soul.

Using the Third Method and mastering the Third Method are different.

In Ilya's view, she is now floating in an ocean called "Spirit Particles".

Those higher-dimensional outflows, those magical powers originating from the soul itself, now submit to the girl's mind, as soft as branches and leaves, allowing her to manipulate them at will.

But she felt little joy; instead, she gazed at the body that had fallen to the cold ground with an indescribable sadness.

Even the fact that the black mud outside the window hasn't disappeared says far too much.

The historical momentum of World War IV and V is now eyeing Ilya covetously.

The matter is called the "Compilation Matter," and the "Restraint Force" is called the "Alaya" or "Gaia."

Now, in this universe constructed by Irisviel, they appear as one empty ring after another.

This couldn't help but give Ilya a profound sense of absurdity—

Just before Matou Sakura tried to engulf another universe with black mud.

Just before Irisviel tried to make that "impossible" wish.

Even before the arrival of the Alliance, and even before the problems arose in the Holy Grail War...

What are all these inhibitory forces or mechanisms doing?!

A miracle finally happened.

Another [Third Magician] has finally been born.

And it is precisely after those who uphold justice have made sacrifices and achieved victory, after innocent victims have devoted their efforts and given their lives...

They jumped out and then told themselves that they had better listen to their "advice".

This infuriated Ilya, who found it ridiculous.

The presence of that [Alaya] is now virtually omnipresent in this universe.

It must have been "observing" this place for a long time.

It took so long that I had to close the "hole" myself.

So long that this universe will eventually disappear because of Black Alice's death.

This force couldn't wait to try to use both soft and hard tactics on Ilya, half threatening and half persuading her.

"If I don't follow the 'inertia' you've given me, you'll do everything in your power to erase me?"

If she could, Ilya would love to deliver a powerful attack to this force, one that would shake its very existence.

If only she could materialize the entire universe with her soul.

This Other, composed of the so-called "human subconscious," is bound to crumble under this unprecedented impact.

But Alaya did indeed find a very good opportunity—

As the newly born "Third Magician," Ilya's power is both strong and weak.

She can easily bring everything she touches into her control through the "materialization of the soul".

Even now, among the many "strong individuals," she would certainly have a place.

Today's "strongest" almost all achieve limitless magic power without relying on the [Third Law]—

Even if some "strong individuals" cannot do it due to their own "persona," they will indirectly achieve it by creating devices.

In other words, any "strong" fighter who relies on magic will be at a great disadvantage when facing Illya.

Perhaps they still possess powerful magic or corresponding techniques.

But as long as [Ilya] closes the gate in this universe called [Soul Materialization].

These "strong" individuals will soon find themselves in a situation where they have "no magic power available."

If the war drags on, their fate will be to have aircraft carriers run out of fuel.

Even the powerful ship hulls that are constructed will gradually melt away as a result.

Even if one can barely move by using the [Power of Limit Break], and thus have the energy to do so.

But once you've used up all the power that anchors you, what's the difference between that and a slow suicide under the attack of the [Intelligence Repair Mechanism]?

However, the power of restraint does not possess a soul.

Even now, the power unleashed by Alaya and Gaia appears to be soulless puppets, spirits devoid of will—

That is a mechanism constituted by natural phenomena, the destruction of planets, the determination of branches, and the compilation of matters.

This particularly targeted response has given Ilya an unprecedented sense of powerlessness.

She doesn't carry much of the CYZ effect.

Becoming the Third Magician was never part of Ilya's plans.

Irisviel's actions also surprised her.

The real and tangible universe is now being slowly identified as a "singularity".

The root of this perception lies in the "tampering" of the already deceased Black Alice by two major "restraining forces".

If I were truly identified as part of a certain "singularity"...

Should I agree to the contract with [Suppressive Force]? This thought crossed Ilya's mind.

As long as you agree to become the agent of [restraint].

Alaya and Gaia promised to give themselves, Kiritsugu, and Irisviel respectively in the Sea of ​​Stars and the Throne of Heroes...

Putting aside the coercive actions of the [Restraint Force], the conditions offered by [Alaya] and [Gaia] are truly generous.

It's not just the "Emiya family is full of heroes" anymore.

[Alaya] promised Ilya—provided she agreed to the conditions for becoming his agent.

Five billion people in this universe could become "Heroic Spirits" for their contributions to this feat.

Moreover, it will never command anyone other than Ilya.

Those Heroic Spirits only need to enjoy their eternal happiness and glory on the Throne of Heroes.

Even if there are still concerns, there are other options.

Gaia will construct a phase within the Inner Sea of ​​Stars, based on this universe.

And it comes with a completely new mythology, with the vacant positions and authority of those dead gods as a bonus.

“Named Emiya Kiritsugu… He exists as a god who can be justice and judgment.”

“Irisviel…exists as a god of peace and desire…”

These two wills express such conditions.

"In the [Inner Sea of ​​Stars], the memories and thoughts of the planets... allow anything that does not interfere with the outside world... to exist."

If it weren't for learning the true nature of the "Suppressive Force" from the "Alliance"—Ilya stopped thinking abruptly.

[The Deterrent Force] tells her that their only requirement is to maintain the survival of "humanity and the planet".

"However... the safety device... does not exclude external..."

They do not reject cooperation with the alliance.

In fact, all the alliance needs to do is share the technology behind that timeline.

The "Suppressive Force" will, out of "sincerity," revive Irisviel first and is willing to postpone the contract for Illya to become a "Heroic Spirit."

"...The contract...has limited binding force on the Third Mage."

Yes, for someone who has truly mastered the "materialization of the soul," the effectiveness of any contract would be limited, right?

From this perspective, rather than signing a contract to become an agent, it's more like becoming a bridge for communication and transactions between the "Alliance" and the "Restraint Force."

Ilya naturally wouldn't immediately agree to any of the terms of the [Suppressive Force].

In particular, Alaya repeatedly urged and requested to exchange the items using timeline technology.

Let alone the fact that I only have a superficial understanding of various technologies.

Even trading away the simplest [Alliance] technology.

As far as Ilya knows, all of this involves the core principles and prerequisites of the [CYZ Magic Base Plate]—

Create an environment where the RSI value is below 100.

Putting aside the fact that this is undoubtedly a betrayal of the [Alliance].

More importantly, Ilya had absolutely no understanding of this technology.

In fact, it wasn't just Ilya who didn't understand.

Even the CYZ Effect Research Institute, which specializes in this, or the executive councilors who know all the secrets, can probably only try to study and apply it like blind men touching an elephant.

In the entire alliance, there is only one person who truly understands this technology—

Our ZC-01.

This is related to how the [CYZ effect] is used.

Unless you have an infinite effect value, you cannot use it to fulfill a wish that you don't even know exists.

If you don't even know the "0" that symbolizes the origin of the "coordinate axis", how can you construct an RSI value that is "lower" than a certain value?

If someone were to compile a list of the research work of the [CYZ Effect Research Institute].

The primary task is undoubtedly the most routine one: measuring Lin Sheng's RSI value.

The CYZ Effect Research Institute can confidently say:

If a universe does not contain an existence like Lord ZC-01.

Therefore, no matter how powerful they are, they cannot leave the shell they are in.

Perhaps in some sense—

It is precisely because Lin Sheng is constantly issuing a command to the [CYZ effect] and proving its existence.

This is what enabled the Alliance to explore and discover the space outside the shell.

As for Ilya...

Even if she was unaware of the hidden truths and secrets involved, she could still discern some subtle clues from the posture of [restraint].

But she clearly didn't have time to think things through at that moment.

"...too much time has passed...Irisviel...cannot be preserved..."

[Inhibition] It expresses an attitude of complete indifference, merely "kindly" reminding people of the potential consequences of delay.

The black cherry blossoms outside the window are making a desperate struggle.

What seemed like a great threat to Ilya was insignificant in the face of the raging flames.

Those rings called "Suppressive Force" were pulled down and shattered in the sky by the black ocean that looked somewhat shrunken.

Clearly, Black Sakura would not agree to the deal between Ilya and [Counterforce].

While she commanded more of herself to flow out of the "hole," she also tried to push the "hole" shut.

The rings in the sky, shaped by the [restraint force], shrank in the same way as the "hole" shrank.

Black Sakura has no reason to show mercy to either Alaya or Gaia.

"Since you're focused on completing the [editing tasks], don't expect to accomplish anything else!"

That ocean, composed of black mud, actively came into contact with the "reality" of this universe.

Everything except the black mud was burned in the deep black lava.

So what if I become the "Third Magician"?
Unlike the inhibitory force, which lacks complex consciousness.

Kuro Sakura knew very well.

Things not listed in the "Editorial Notes" section are not worth mentioning.

Just like the first [Third Magician] who never actually appeared.

If only we could recreate Illya's sacrifice to "shut down the Holy Grail".

Perhaps she will remain immortal due to the "materialization of her soul." But it's clear that she will no longer be able to appear in any ongoing narrative of history.

No matter what, Ilya is still just a child.

And Irisviel's sacrifice is right before our eyes, and Kiritsugu and the Alliance have given far too much.

If you refuse the suggestion of [inhibition]...

Then—wouldn't all that effort have been wasted?!

Time seemed to grow ever more pressing as the rings in the sky disappeared and shrank.

This universe, which symbolizes Black Alice's best hopes and last remaining possessions, is becoming increasingly precarious.

Ilya could see that the black ocean that filled the sky had already developed gaps.

The "reality" from the outside world is illuminating the appearance of a collapsed building from the slowly burning black fire.

Ilya looked at her own [soul].

The door called "Soul Materialization" is firmly held in her heart.

The [restraint] did not lie to itself; it could not change the law and reason flowing from the [root] no matter what.

At this moment, her fair face was filled with hesitation.

Although it seems like I have several choices, after excluding the incommunicable Black Sakura, I actually have no choice at all—

Whether it's the [magic] I obtained myself, or the appearance of [restraint], it's all about this.

Or perhaps, those questions that we can easily discover with just a casual thought these days.

This intelligence is extremely important to the Alliance.

Furthermore, if he didn't agree, was he supposed to just watch as Kuroi Sakura revealed the end of the "Compilation Matters"?
In that case, neither Kiritsugu nor Irisviel would be able to do so.

Even the efforts the Alliance made on Archer and Kirei will be completely wasted.

Kirei Kotomine is now relying on his spirit and body to resist the influence of his soul.

The presence of black mud will immediately transform him back into the one within the "historical inertia"—and the power of "historical inertia" will actually increase in the same way.

Archer would obviously immediately revert to his arrogant, unruly, and extremely evil demeanor.

If you agree to the conditions of [inhibition].

At the very least, this action, which goes against the "historical inertia," will allow the other two paths of the "alliance" to proceed normally.

"If it's just a verbal agreement..."

In the end, Ilya decided to agree.

She moved the body, which had fallen to the floor with a smile on its lips, onto the bed.

Then, she wrapped Irisviel's cold arm around another Illya.

The scenery outside the window now looks like three interwoven bands of color.

The snowstorm brought by Black Alice is gradually subsiding.

On the distant castle border, a small swath of snow is guarding the forest after the snow has cleared.

The phantoms of Irisviel, Kiritsugu Emiya, and Illya play joyfully in that happy memory.

The black ocean is transforming into fiery clouds, carrying a scorching heat, while simultaneously burning the rings formed by deep blue light and the few remaining white clouds.

Ilya walked toward the circle that shimmered with blue light outside the window.

It was a tiny ring, attempting to create a small space free of black mud while extending its tentacles toward Ilya.

Ilya placed her hand on the window lock.

Then--

"Ah... what an old trick that brings back fond memories."

A voice suddenly rang out behind her.

"Do you know? That man once chose to reject that wish."

Emiya Shirou mimicked Kiritsugu's tone, reciting his own words when facing the will of the Holy Grail.

He said—because the sacrifices it caused were far greater than the gains it brought, nothing more.

"Shirou!" Illya's face broke into a joyful smile as she exclaimed in surprise.

My body instinctively took a step back behind the window, turned around, and was about to—

His expression instantly turned serious and even horrified.

Ilya modified her [soul] several times before she could stop herself from leaping high into the air and rushing into the arms of the man she shouldn't even know at this moment.

However, that sudden, inexplicable sense of peace and trust cannot be changed no matter how the soul is altered.

I subconsciously wanted to rely on him.

I subconsciously wanted to trust him.

Subconsciously, I wanted to tell that guy everything, and even help him.

[——Accept Ilya].

[—Reject Ilya].

[Emiya Shirou] sighed, completely ignoring the "option" that popped up the moment Illya showed a "happy" expression.

He "chosen" to focus his attention on [inhibition].

【…】

【…】

Rarely, two empty options exist in this non-existent spacetime.

Emiya Shirou thought for a moment.

As he pondered, the surrounding RSI values ​​began to rise at an astonishing rate, increasing by almost hundreds of points.

Some words began to appear in the empty "options".

[Did I have that dream again...?]

[Did I have that dream again...?]

Emiya Shirou has a very good habit.

After breaking down the existing system, one relies on the "historical inertia" of one's past experiences.

He broke down each of his "choices" into its components.

"Projection magic... how similar is it to saving and loading save files?"

That is why he doesn't need any [limit-breaking power] to become an unparalleled existence.

"Shirou, you mean—" Illya exclaimed in surprise.

"Did you manipulate [historical inertia]?!"

No, it's less about surprise and more about disbelief that such a thing could happen.

Operation? That's probably how they see it.

Emiya Shirou's eyes flickered slightly.

It wasn't because of Ilya's words, but because his gaze fell on the black mud outside the window.

The black mud outside the window had clearly also spotted Shirou.

"Senior...why didn't you choose me?!?"

"I want to be Sakura's protector."

—I will uphold the path of those who uphold justice.

Seeing the two options that popped up in front of him, Shirou Emiya subconsciously looked away again.

Perhaps in Sakura's eyes, it was her senior who coldly and ruthlessly rejected the path to redemption.

But in reality, Shirou Emiya didn't actually "choose" anything, at least not after "loading the save."

In layman's terms, he got stuck on the options.

Of course, what difference would others make in the eyes of the subtle differences in the consequences presented?

Even though he himself doesn't remember, the traces left by the [Power of Breaking Limits] always remind him.

But I have a goal that I must achieve and a long-cherished wish that I must fulfill.

With that in mind, Shirou Emiya placed the option regarding whether or not to accept Illya into his mental image.

Then, facing Ilya's wary gaze, he gave her a friendly smile.

As a result, Ilya's vigilance was gradually "dispelled".

Then, she heard Shirou Emiya say, "Illya, don't worry, I will help you save Irisviel."

"What are your conditions?"

Ilya turned her head away and began deleting those "horrible" images from her soul.

Yes, it was a horrific scene.

In Ilya's view, what could be more terrifying than a single action that could change "everything" about another person?
Emiya Shirou's expression dimmed for a moment, but he quickly dismissed those sentimental thoughts.

“I don’t intend to stop that ‘Alliance’s’ plan,” Shirou Emiya said.

That's absolutely true, except that the order might vary slightly.

Emiya Shirou's biggest point of disagreement with the "Alliance" plan was—

Its most likely ultimate outcome is simply to maintain this universe.

Rather than completely saving it.

This is undoubtedly a limitation of being the most righteous party.

Considering the suggestions from those madmen in the [Research Layer], surely the [Alliance] has a more radical approach?
of course not!

Just as Lin Sheng and Conan both agreed that it would be a foolproof "safety net" strategy that could succeed even in the worst-case scenario.

Emiya Shirou was fully aware of this.

"Therefore, if my plan fails, the Alliance does indeed have a reason to succeed."

He laid out his plans to Ilya.

To be honest, Ilya was initially quite touched—

Whether this is due to the "goodwill" that one's own "persona" evokes or the gratitude one receives from this "trust," it doesn't matter.

However, the more I hear...

Illya's expression gradually became very similar to that of Rin Tohsaka when she was angry.

"So, you saw everything that just happened, right?"

Hmm, it was a seemingly innocuous question, but for some reason, Shirou Emiya sensed a murderous aura.

"Ah...this!"

"In short, if you have no objections, I'll take that as a yes."

Emiya Shirou quickly ignored the problem and turned to the arrangements for the follow-up matters.

"Our time is also very tight. After all, even I have to adjust the historical inertia on both sides to the point that Chaldea cannot detect the problem."

Emiya Shirou turned to look at Irisviel, who was lying on the bed.

[—I request Ilya to resurrect Irisviel.]

[—I request Ilya to resurrect Irisviel.]

Then, the magic circuits reached their limit, and using [mental imagery] to interfere with the matter at hand, projecting some... words.

As parentheses, which appear as supplementary explanations, appear, some characters begin to emerge.

[—I request Ilya to resurrect Irisviel. (And in a way that is absolutely undetectable, conceal my involvement with the plan and mend fate.)]

Amidst the violent tremors, the unstable options stabilized again.

"Huff... Huff..." Shirou Emiya was drenched in sweat in an instant.

At this moment, it felt as if I were on the verge of death, struggling to survive amidst boundless suffocating pain.

He was breathing heavily.

Adding those "characters" to the "options" is obviously a very time-consuming task.

Yes, it was long before we discovered that we could use the [Projection Magic] to "save" and "load" files.

Shirou Emiya tried to see if he could "edit the file".

This is also something he regrets.

At this moment, looking at the flashing "options" in front of him, Shirou Emiya sighed inwardly—

"Is this the only way to succeed?"

"I just hope that's enough."

(End of this chapter)