Entry 34: A secret room

[So we head into the Labyrinth again. (The menu there marks Rin as this floor’s “Sentinel.”) Caster and I fight some things, then head for the part of the path we couldn’t get to last time before Rin stopped us.]

Caster :: Mu, this feeling of something having been spilled... Master, I sense a harsh presence ahead!

Leo :: Sakura, scan that building. Can you tell its status?

Sakura :: No, I…My scanning won’t go through that building. Its construction is different from the others, as if it was added on later.

That’s suspicious indeed. So this means that’s Rin and Lancer’s secret room? If we want to bring down the shield, we’ll need Rin’s “secrets” — that’s what Kiara said. It would be nice if there were some kind of hint in that building, but…

Leo :: Indeed, we need any information we can get at present. Please keep exploring, Hakuno. But be careful. We don’t know when Miss Tohsaka and Lancer might appear to oppose you.

[So we go up to the building and enter through the gate in the front.]

The moment I enter the room, fear runs up my spine. There’s red splattered all over the room. Red spilling from crucified bodies. Red pooling on the floor, spreading little by little. All of it red. All of it anguish. All of it — a prison of blood that shouldn’t exist in this world. On the opposite wall are human shapes, sewn in place like insects pinned down as specimens. Blood flows obediently from the wounds gauged into their flanks, shoulders, and arms.

Sakura :: That’s horrible…

Leo :: Hakuno, can you break down those walls? Ah, of course you can’t. Only the arena’s root user would have clearance to do that. They look human, but…Sakura, what are they? NPCs or Masters?

Sakura :: …Both. They’re all virtual bodies, captured from the near side, same as the rest of us, anyway. I would guess that they’re people who couldn’t make it to the old school building, and were imprisoned in the Labyrinth.

That’s…so, if we’d taken one wrong step, we could have ended up like them ourselves…?

Unknown speaker :: Ugh…ah…Tired…Heavy…Is there…someone there…?

They’re awake! Those people with the blood wrung out of them are alive!

Caster :: ...It's true that being alive means that there's still a chance of being able to save them. But, this might be...

Caster gazes at the blood-stained torture chamber with a dark expression. But, they’re still alive. We may not be able to save them now, but if we go and look for some way —

Unknown speaker :: Ugh…ah…ah…give it…give it, back…this is, enough, for a lifetime, so…Come on, give it back…Give it back…give it…give it…give it, give it, give it, give it! Give me, give me back my talent…!

Leo :: So that’s what it is. They’re draining blood…data, from the NPCs, up until they can reconstruct themselves. From the Masters they’re pulling out their magic circuits. That’s their talent, their innate potential as a wizard.

Julius :: …it’s the opposite of “designer babies.” This is a room for physically transforming geniuses into ordinary people. I’ve fought with a Servant that possessed a similar skill before. With the Territory Creation skill and A rank skills in torture…A Servant specializing in murder, not battle. Kishinami, lingering is useless. No matter what you do, you won’t be able to save the captured Masters. Hurry forward before you’re poisoned.

Julius’s instructions cold, but his voice isn’t cruel. It might be my imagination, but he acts as if he’s really concerned for me. Still…On the other side of those windows, Masters whose names I don’t know are crying. The young man who used to be a Master continues to cry out as his whole body is skewered by some lance-shaped thing. The mark of a wizard. The power to freely come and go in the virtual world. He cries for that privilege back, as if it were the foundation of his existence.

…my cognizance has been weak. I hadn’t though of the self-proclaimed master of this castle, Rin, as an enemy. But this horrific scene is just inhuman. I still haven’t gotten back my memory, power, or self-awareness as a Master. But I know this much. This is something I can’t forgive. Even if it’s Rin I’m facing, I’ll have to fight her head-on.

Caster :: I know you're furious, Master. This horrible scene... It's the work of a demon. Someone possessing so much cruelty that they can't be called human. 

Caster :: ...In my case, I don't have the right to condemn this. But... Master, if you were to meet this kind of a fate, I wouldn't be a pretty sight. Indeed, I would wield my versatile array of godly powers against time itself! ...or something. I didn't think that horn woman was this much of an idiot. There's a limit to how much you can ignore reality.

Caster :: The curse of being unable to view humans as human... As her senpai in the yandere category, I'm going to rake her over the coals for this!

Caster's voice takes the tension out of me. …I breath slowly. My determination hasn’t waned, but the strain in my body has been released. Even if I harden my heart with anger and justice, this body remembers that we can’t fight to our satisfaction.

Julius :: Don’t make me repeat the instructions. Nothing will come of standing there. If you want to help those people, search for the source.

…Julius is right. I turn my back to that terrible scene and walk forward. Just as I did in that dark school building.

Leo :: Now…Hakuno. What do you make of that torture chamber? Do you think it’s the “secret of Miss Tohsaka” Kiara said we needed to take down the shield?

> I think the torture chamber is Rin’s secret
[>] No, I think it’s something else

I think the torture chamber isn’t Rin’s secret. It’s true that Rin Tohsaka is a dangerous person, but she wasn’t the kind of person who would do something so evil — My memories are lacking, but I’m sure of this. …probably.

Leo :: Yes, I agree. For it to be Miss Tohsaka’s secret, it would have to be something more amusing. There should be some other secret. First let’s investigate every corner of this floor.

Original translation here: https://tsukinoura.wordpress.com/2013/07/14/entry-34-a-secret-room/. Please support the original translator.

Entry 33: The Nurse's New Clothes

[Heading down the stairs to garden, who do I see manning the previously empty item-kiosk?]

…..? Could this man be — Yes, he’s the administrator AI from the Holy Grail War. What is he doing in the store?

Kotomine :: Heh. You’re looking at me like something incomprehensible. I can understand that. In any case, I’m in a similar state myself. It seems that somehow not only Masters, but one of the administrative NPCs has been caught up in this incident. Under these circumstances, my original role has been overwritten. Instead, as you can see, I have been granted the position of shopkeeper. It’s truly thrilling. Do you understand, now?

An administrative NPC whose role has been overwritten…So, are all of the people in this school other than the Masters NPCs that have been caught up in all this?

Kotomine :: For the most part. There are NPCs that were brought here, and perhaps some NPCs that were in this old school building from the beginning. Those who were here before seem to be reproductions of the appearances of former Masters, just virtual images after all. They’re the same as the students in the preliminaries.

I see. I understand the situation. I understand, but — yeah, having this priest here makes me extraordinarily ill at ease.

Kotomine :: You’ll have to get used to that. I am, as you can see, fastidiously neat and moreover meticulous. Since it has come to this, I am aiming to become the greatest of all shopkeepers. I imagine it would be a headache for you. So then — thank you for your patronage, please come again.

[So, I check out his wares — there are the usual low-level healing items I’m familiar with from Fate/Extra, and a piece of equipment – called “formal wear” in Extra. Formal wear is equipped on Hakuno, up to two pieces at any given time, and gives her access to “code cast” abilities, or boosts her MP. Very useful stuff. There is also a girl’s school uniform, presumably the one Hakuno wanted to get for Sakura, which costs 98000 sakurament. I'm on my second playthrough, and suspect that this is critical to reaching the True End, so I buy it. It leaves me a lot closer to broke.]

[I…look forward to shopping with you in the future, Kotomine AI.]

[Heading back up to the student council room with my new purchase, I note that Sakura's got a new conversation option.]

Sakura :: Hakuno? Is something the matter?

I go to hand Sakura the newly purchased girl's school uniform. She turns and looks over her shoulder at me, and I start to get a little nervous that I'm doing something uncalled for.

No, no, no, if I give up here it'd be a waste. They might not have had the same uniform in stock, but this is pretty close. I hold the folded uniform tightly as I offer it to Sakura.

"It's a bit sudden, but have this, Sakura!"

[Is this the only time I ever actually speak? I think it might be.]

Sakura :: Um, this is..... what is this?

I explain that I've prepared her a Tsukimihara girl's uniform for her. As allies fighting together to get back to the near side of the moon, I want Sakura to wear the same uniform.

Sakura :: What -- you shouldn't! That's a problem! Sakurament is a valuable resource, so using it to buy a uniform for me is.... Hurry, return it to Kotomine's shop, and buy something more helpful instead! Like a healing item or a Formal Wear!

[As a side note, these should probably be Mystic Codes, but Extra and the previous translation used 'formal wear', so I'm sticking with that for consistency.]

Sakura's full power rejection hits me hard. I knew she'd be perplexed, but I didn't think she'd go so far as to call it a problem. I guess I've gone and done something unnecessary...

Sakura :: Ah, that's... Not exactly what I meant. I was trying to be mindful of the situation we're in, or something like that... Um... I don't want to cause problems for you. So it's not like I don't like it.

...Really?

Sakura :: Really.

...Really really?

Sakura :: Really really. So don't get so sad. 

I raise my head. If it's not that you don't like it, then as one of the Student Council members, and as someone that supporting me, Hakuno Kishinami, I'd like you to wear it. I think you'll look good in it.

[This isn't actually spoken, but we can probably assume that it is. There's no subject specified, so it could be Hakuno's thoughts or her dialogue. I'm inclined to think the latter, and I've translated it as such. Once again, curse the unvoiced protagonist trope.]

Sakura :: ..........

Sakura :: You're really a strange person. Even though nobody's worrying about that sort of thing... Okay. I'll change, so will you come with me to the nurse's office?

Of course, I'd be delighted to.

We leave the Student Council room together.

Sakura ::Setup complete! Um... how do I look?

Looking kind of lost, Sakura asks me how she looks. It's no exaggeration to say she's really cute in it, and I tell her as much. Her trademark white nursing gown and light hair go really well with the dark blue sailor uniform. Coupled with her usual elegant behavior, she looks like the kind of underclassman I'd really want to protect.... that's my impression, at least.

Sakura :: That's kind of an embarrassing example, but I'm glad it doesn't look weird. And, it feels like my processing speed somehow went up... some kind of optimization? Thank you, Hakuno.

I'm glad she likes it. That was kind of awkward, but as I thought, it's definitely right for us to be wearing the same uniform. I'm looking forward to working together, Sakura.

Sakura :: Yes. I'll be giving it everything I have on the support side, so leave it to me! ....And, thank you. It's hard to explain, but I'm really happy.

[Smile status: protected. I'm glad I got to do this this time around.]

 Normal route version: https://tsukinoura.wordpress.com/2013/07/13/entry-33-shopping-is-going-to-be-a-harrowing-experience/

Entry 32: We have so many questionable ethics

Leo :: Welcome back Hakuno. Did you learn anything helpful from Kiara?

I report that, more than just a hint, I learned the true nature of the shield. Leo is surprised, but he still nodes with an understanding face, as if he expected as much.

Leo :: As Kiara said, I’ve studied psychology, but it was all just information. Even if I could measure the darkness of the human heart, I wouldn’t know how to heal it.

Gawain :: What are you saying, Leo? Your radiance is as the light of the sun. Anyone wrapped in darkness would be freed of it simply by beholding you.

Leo :: Thank you Gawain. I will remember that. Instead of a one-sided faith, I will aim for a more human path to salvation.

Saying that, Leo’s profile becomes just a little lonely. …some vague memory suddenly floats across my mind. He really was the sun that illuminates everything. He had a kind of divine kingship that cleared away all obstacles, and all feelings. But it would never solve the fundamental problem. If you’re saved by the sun’s illumination, the moment the sun is gone, you will fall into darkness again.
From my perspective I can see that problem, but I wonder if he himself became aware of it in his last moments…?

[Kiara enters the room.]

Kiara :: Excuse me. Kiara Sesshouin, come to add my powers to your cause — oh my, what a serious atmosphere. I feel awkward, intruding on this secret boys’ meeting. If it’s just bad luck, shall I try coming back later?

 [I'm a girl, though!]

Leo :: No, we were waiting for you, Kiara. To get straight to the point, please instruct us in how to take down the shield.

Kiara :: Yes, please leave it to me. Or so I’d say, but all I can do is explain and transfer it to you.

Leo :: Transfer…? Do you mean you have in your possession some effective countermeasure?

Kiara :: Yes. But please wait for that. Please first let me explain to you what the walls of the heart are. The walls of the heart are, as singular objects, difficult to destroy. The wall isn’t something to be destroyed, but something to be understood. Please think of it that way.

Leo :: Understand…is it? So, we aren’t sweeping away the troubles of the heart?

Kiara :: Yes. We want to see through to the hidden character, the proper state of Rin Tohsaka’s heart, which is the origin of the wall, and accept that. Speak with her, fight with her, observe her, and so discover her “secrets.” Those will become the keys to open that door.

Gawain :: To know your enemy, cross blades with him, and so lay each other bare — that’s what you’re saying?

Julius :: Impossible. What do you understand about people that way. Sesshouin. You may know how to do this sort of neat tidying up on earth, but this is a battlefield. Show us a specific, concrete method.

Kiara :: Of course, I’m aware of that. The normal way to represent the motions of the human heart, the reactions of the soul, is to process them as the rise and fall of a graph. To measure metaphysical things, the observer must also become a spiritual existence. That is the farthest land that all religions aim for. The third eye, the eye that sees not the image but the countenance, the eye of meditation, which is lost to us, and so we cannot see the shape of the soul. To find the real thing would require long training, but right now is something of an emergency. So this time, I will specially transfer to you an imitation of the Five Thought-Stopping Meditations Program…Eden style version. What, it’s not such a special program. It just finds the openings to a person’s heart, and exposing the backwaters that the person themselves is not even aware of.

Leo :: The five…what is that?

Gatou :: It’s a basic meditation method to renounce worldly desires. The five meditations are meditation on impurity, meditation on compassion, meditation on cause and effect, meditation on separation from the world, and mindful breathing meditation.

[Let me tell you, Buddhist terminology is hell to translate, it’s all passed through like four different languages at least, and some, like this, doesn’t seem to have ever reached English along that journey.]

Leo :: Oh. As I’d expect of you, Gatou. Your knowledge of Buddhism is deep. It’s been educational.

Gatou :: Of course, President Leo. My greatness is as laundry floating in the Ganges River. And thus my heart —

Kiara :: Which it to say, it’s very hard to find?

Gatou :: Indeed. Your interpretation is correct, lady. Hidden secrets are latent tendencies, which is to say worldly desires. And to choose to abandon worldly desire for the sake of one’s own self-awareness…well, that I understand. However, however! That is the path by which people face their own desires. To face the desires of others does not make sense.

Kiara :: Of course, that’s just it. However, it appears Rin Tohsaka is not behaving like her previous self. We have vowed to save the lost. I wouldn’t be saying this if we weren’t under circumstances like this, would I, Mr. Arhat?

Gatou :: Er, yes. You should call me an shramana, not an arhat. I, Monji Gatou, am still in the midst of my training, you see. Oh yes, I need to go clean the toilets! I just remembered an important task, excuse me!

It seems Gatou is bad at dealing with Kiara. Making a troubled, unsatisfied face, and muttering to himself all the way, he leaves the room.

Leo :: Returning to the topic at hand. If we have those five paths to enlightenment, will we be able to see through Rin Tohsaka’s heart?

Kiara :: It’s more like exposing the affected areas than seeing through it. The Five Thought-Stopping Meditations is medical software. It finds the patient’s injuries, and cleanses the stagnant areas. The shield is a wall of the heart that guards secrets. Therefore, if we uncover the secrets, there will no longer be any meaning in protecting them. If the wall of the heart is an illness, the Five Meditations is a vaccine to treat it — it would be fine to think of it that way.

Leo :: …I see, I understand the theory. So we should install the Five Thought-Stopping Meditations into our analyzer, and then monitor Miss Tohsaka. The Five Thought-Stopping Meditations will observe the subtleties of the heart, and when it deduces Miss Tohsaka’s hidden secrets, it will retrieve those secrets in physical form…Is that it?

Kiara :: Yes. Of course, we will have to rely on Miss Kishinami to do her best to collect data on the patient. And one correction. It won’t be installed to the student council room, but to Miss Kishinami herself.

Sakura :: What…?

Installing a program to myself…I’ve never done it, but it doesn’t sound so extraordinary. In this virtual environment, my body is made up of quasi-spiritual particles. Installing a program or attaching new functions should be possible. A Master’s code-cast abilities run on the same principle. If there’s anything that makes me uneasy, it’s that program’s capacity. Running powerful software could damage my personality. Will my body be able to endure the load of a program like I’ve never seen or heard of, that “observes emotions.”

Sakura :: I, I’m opposed! We can’t force Miss Kishinami to take such a risk! If we’re going to attach external software, an AI like myself would be more qualified. I am generally forbidden to expand my functionality, but this is an emergency situation. We can overlook the Moon Cell’s rules!

Everyone in the room is surprised to hear Sakura suddenly speak up. Of course I am, but Leo, Julius, and even Gawain are all blinking at that. The only one unaffected is Kiara. She smiles at Sakura, calm as ever.

Kiara :: And why is that?

Sakura :: Why?

Kiara :: You say it’s an exception, but the Moon Cell’s rules must be followed to the best of you ability, correct? So I’m asking, why are you making that choice now?

Sakura :: O-oh…we-well…? That’s, um…Because my duty is to look after everyone’s health. I can’t make Miss Kishinami take dangerous actions outside of the Holy Grail War.

Kiara :: Oh, I see. I’m relieved to hear that’s your reason. However, it isn’t possible to install it to you. Only human beings can read emotions. Even if you observe emotions, Sakura, you can’t understand them. And besides, practically speaking, Hakuno is the one who’ll be meeting with Rin, right? So only she can do this.

Sakura :: ……

Kiara :: Does anyone else have objections? If not…Hakuno, come here. Please close your eyes for a little bit. I’ll transfer one part of the Five Meditations. It’s all right, it won’t put too much of a load on your soul. It has about the same weight as the command seal, so don’t be concerned.

I have no right to refuse. After all we have to method to bring down the shield other than this program. I do as I’m told, closing my eyes and relaxing my shoulders. Then —

Kiara :: Nn —

[There is a burst of flower petals around us as she does that, too.]

Julius :: What the hell are you doing!?

Leo :: This is most unexpected! Brother, we need to get an image! Quickly, quickly! Multicam, we need multicam!

Gawain :: What boldness, in the public eye…Ah, are the hands at her waist as the fluttering of the swan, or the great serpent encircling the sacred tree…

Sakura :: ——.

…, ……! …, ……, ………!!!!!!!

Kiara :: Mm…ahh, thank you for waiting. The Five Thought-Stopping Meditations has been safely installed to Hakuno.

Wha, whawhawha, whawhawhawhawha…!

I look around at everyone in the room, asking for some explanation of what just happened. Leo is grinning and giving us a thumbs-up. Julius is conspicuously averting his eyes. Gawain bows to Kiara, babbling something about “splendid execution.”

Leo :: Thank you for all you’ve done for us, Kiara. Now Hakuno has a new skill added, then?

Kiara :: Yes. Though as Hakuno resisted, it nearly failed.

“All you’ve done”, “all you’ve done” is…! Of course I resisted, what did you expect!

…which was a mistake. Though I frantically tried to push her away with both hands, the more I pushed the more force Kiara put into her hold on me, until it felt like she was twined around me, and I was at her mercy…

Kiara :: The presence of these walls of the heart means that the girl they come from is asking to be saved. The rest will depend on Hakuno’s efforts.

Julius :: …hn. And what exactly do you mean by “efforts”?

Kiara :: My goodness, you’re very aggressive. What makes those girls happy, what they hate, what they like, what they fear — I mean she should get them to appreciate all of it, no matter what. And then when their hearts are laid bare, Hakuno’s eyes, carrying the Five Meditations, should mercilessly sunder that flower.

I, I see? What I need to do is look for Rin, talk to her, and depending on the circumstances, fight her…that’s what she means, right? So fundamentally it’s not that different from what I was doing before. I think. Definitely.

Kiara :: The next part will be Sakura’s job. Transmit the “secrets” Hakuno obtains to the shield, and so undo the wall…That will also require a new program. Sakura. Are you still willing to expand your functionality?

Sakura :: …Y-yes. If it will help everyone, I think it’s an allowable exception.

Kiara :: Then Sakura, I will give you the remaining part of the Five Thought-Stopping Meditations. What I transferred to Hakuno was only one part. I will insert the foundation of the program into you. It will overwrite your base personality, but that should be all right for you, Sakura.

…I gasp. I mean, I just heard her say “it will overwrite your base personality.” That can’t be the same as installing an external function. Sakura is an AI, but I can’t really tell the difference between her and a human being. I’m not all right with Kiara treating her like an object, but it seems I’m the only one in the student council room worried about Sakura. Leo and Julius and Gawain — even Sakura herself doesn’t seem to have any complaints. In this era, even if an AI is the same as a human, there are things one has that the other doesn’t —

…such things cross my mind to no purpose, common knowledge I’ve heard somewhere before.

Kiara :: Now then — ah, no not here. I’ll need you to be naked, so let’s go to the infirmary.

Sakura :: Y-yes. I’ll follow your lead.

The two of them left for the infirmary. …I’m concerned. Would it be all right for me to go after them?

[>] I can’t overlook this, to the infirmary!
> Wouldn’t that be peeping on them?

Gawain :: You mustn’t, Lady. As a fellow woman, your intent is understandable, but you must restrain yourself.

[…I’m now curious as to whether with a male character that sentence has all the same words except for “woman,” yet takes on an entirely different meaning.]

— I’m stopped before I can go anywhere! And by Gawain, at that. The moment I looked away to go casually follow them!

Leo :: Indeed, Hakuno. Your mouth gives away your wicked intentions. Let’s wait here patiently. …Well, I think I’ll go to the bathroom though. A bit too much tea, you know.

Gawain :: Leo. Though you say so, you haven’t had tea or anything else to drink the whole tea we’ve been in here.

Leo :: Ahaha. You’re so attentive to details, Gawain. I didn’t mean the bathroom. Actually, I have a book I borrowed I need to take back to the library, so…

We hear the sound of the door opening. Before Leo had finished talking, Julius had reached the door without any of us noticing.

Julius :: The president need not dirty his hands. I’ll go see what’s happening.

Leo :: Brother, that’s…why do you only decide to be helpful at times like this?

Julius :: Dirty work is my jurisdiction. Before procuring anything, I will be on standby, and if anything seems out of order, I will knock on the infirmary door, then check inside.

Gawain :: Most commendable. Truly gentlemanly conduct. Julius, please go ahead. …I’m afraid the stimulus would still be too much for Leo, you see. We can discuss this in detail later, just between us.

Leo :: Hey, that’s not fair! My brother and I are the same, age doesn’t matter! Up to R-15 should be fine!

[Look Team Harway, if you want to hear about spying on lesbian sex magic in infirmaries, Hakuno knows all about it — well, in another timeline, I guess.]

I nod vigorously in agreement with Leo. We can’t let Julius alone see that beautiful vision.

Julius :: …all of you, what do you think I am? I’m really just going to go see what’s happening. This is a good opportunity, so I’ll say it now. As the student council’s private secretary, I will find and immediately punish all violations of good behavior. That’s my intent.

Gawain :: Nn…what an uptight man he is! The way he speaks reminds me of Lancelot!

Leo :: Julius…I know that he takes his professional duties very seriously, but this is just…I’ve failed. I’m sorry, Hakuno.

No. Why are you apologizing to me, Leo.

Kiara :: Sorry to leave you waiting.  The installation to Sakura went smoothly…oh? It’s quite a cheerful atmosphere this time. When it’s all men a room, they all become boys at heart, no? How charming.

No, there was a woman, it was me. It’s just that Leo turned to the conversation to a very benign subject, so we started acting like regular students in here somehow.

But that’s not important, how is Sakura? I trying asking if she’s in a bad physical state, after that difficult addition to her functionality.

Sakura :: There were no significant issues. I can’t understand human hearts, but my ability to analyze the shields has been extraordinarily augmented.

Kiara :: And that’s all I have for you. If anything comes up, please don’t hesitate to call on me again.

Kiara bows simply and then leaves. It was just a small movement, but it left more of an impression on me than if she had hung her head deeply. It may be the complete opposite of Gatou’s over-reactions. I think I get why it’s hard for Gatou to deal with Kiara.

Leo :: Well then, let’s get straight to the launch experiment. Hakuno, please head for the Sakura Labyrinth.

[Checking in with people in the room: Sakura says she’s completely fine, or rather better, since she can analyze shields. Gawain is still annoyed at Julius. Julius is not feeling all right about us mucking about in people’s hearts – he says it seems more like a virus than a vaccine, no matter what Kiara says, once again distinguishing himself as the only reasonable person on this council. Leo and Hakuno discuss the fact that their school uniforms have changed since coming to the far side – they’re now in a more old fashioned style, to match the old fashioned school building. Hakuno wonders why Julius and Sakura are still dressed the same way. Julius would never wear a uniform of any kind, and it doesn’t really matter what Sakura’s wearing, as it doesn’t affect her functionality, Leo responds. Hakuno is not okay with the idea that it doesn’t matter what Sakura wears, and thinks that as a member of the team she should have a uniform to match the rest of us – perhaps there is a shop where we can find one? Sounds like a small sidequest to me.]

[As I leave the room: ]

Sakura :: Ah – um. Thank you very much, Miss Kishinami.

The moment I go to leave the student council room, Sakura suddenly thanks me. There’s no preface to it, so I look, surprised, at Sakura, as do Leo and the others. “Why are you thanking me?” I ask…

Sakura :: What? Oh, ah, I don’t know. Somehow, I just felt like there was something I needed to thank you for…I’m sorry…it seems the addition of the new software has made my emotion levels little unstable. Please take care, and don’t get hurt out there!

Unchanged from original translation here: https://tsukinoura.wordpress.com/2013/07/13/entry-32-we-have-so-many-questionable-ethics/. Please support the original translator.

Entry 31: If only I had summoned Sigmund Freud

Kiara :: Oh my, what a serious face. I heard that you entered the mysterious arena, but did something happen there?

I tell Kiara about what happened in the Sakura Labyrinth. How I entered the unknown arena with the student council as backup, how we were thwarted by a mysterious wall, and how I met Rin, who was acting strangely, and a Servant of unknown nature.

Kiara :: Oh…what to think. While I was meekly counting the stains on this wall in my own lack of strength, such things…but, I’m relieved. Heehee, the Sakura Labyrinth? You always look so quiet, Hakuno, but you’re doing well for yourself, aren’t you?

Kiara flushes, and clasps her hands happily. Umm…why?

Kiara :: So many people forcing their way into Sakura…and it was the first time, too, wasn’t it? Being told of how you met with such a scene of action…well, as a woman, I…

…I should correct her. This woman may really be…something.

Kiara :: What? That’s not what you’re saying? The Sakura Labyrinth is the name of the arena? Oh, oh! My, my, my…I’m sorry you had to hear my wild ideas. Yes, of course. Let’s keep this between us, Hakuno. Ahahaha.

…I wonder if Kiara is the sort of young woman with a lot of superficial knowledge about sex and such? That aside, I hand her the data on the shield that Leo gave me. I explain the situation to Kiara, and ask whether she notices anything, even something trivial.

Kiara :: I’ve had a look at it, but I can’t take this down this for you. Or rather, this is something that should not be taken down.

Kiara looks straight at me, reproving all of us who would break the shield.

Kiara :: …but, I suppose you can’t just accept that. Hakuno. The person in this data, this…Rin Tohsaka, was it? She say anything to you? Those who touch this door will not be forgiven…Have some sensitivity, enemy of women…It’s frustrating, but it’s how I feel…that kind of thing?

…I remember talking to Rin. If I think about it…”Don’t stare at people’s hearts.” I think she said something with that implication…?

Kiara :: It’s as I suspected, then. This fortification isn’t made of orderly logic. It’s human emotion…a wall of the heart, materialized from the desire to hide one’s true character and qualities. I imagine it’s there to guard the secrets of her heart. On Earth, there are medical practices, during psychotherapy, where one dives into the patient’s spirit and removes the source of their suffering, however…when doing so, there’s a high chance of walls like this appearing. They will turn away the quasi-digitalized wizard, or destroy them, if it’s an extremely dangerous fortification. Leo would be unfamiliar with medical treatments…or rather clinical psychology. It’s not impossible that he’s never heard of this. Still, I’ve never seen anything of this scope and strength before either. Rin is rejecting us powerfully.

A wall of the heart…That’s the true nature of the shield. Rin said that that arena was her castle. Which it to say, that wall protects Rin’s heart, and past it lie Rin’s secrets —

Caster :: Ahhh... If that theory is true, that wall would be pretty strong... Actually, by normal logic, it'd be impossible. The strength of a maiden trying to protect secrets is like the heart of a thousand-year-old oak tree.

[She referenced Yakushima? Not really sure what she's getting at, and Google isn't helping.]

Kiara :: …*sigh* There’s no help for it. I’m opposed to destroying the walls of the heart…the shield, but Rin is behaving like a different person from before, you say? If that’s the case, drastic measures may be called for. Though my abilities are poor, I’ll cooperate with you. Please lead me to the student council room. How to unravel the human heart — if my methods are all right with you, I’ll show you my handiwork.

Poker-faced, Kiara says she’ll help with out shield counter-measures. It’s more than I expected. Let’s go to the student council room and report to Leo.

Original translation here: https://tsukinoura.wordpress.com/2013/07/12/entry-31-if-only-i-had-summoned-sigmund-freud/. Please support the original translator.

Entry 30: The results are in

[Ringing!]

The sounds of summons from the student council room wakes me up like an alarm clock. Waking from my sleep, I see the school building’s sunset. I guess this school really is a place where the division between days is meaningless.

Caster :: Good morning, Master. Eh? You're saying I'm an early riser? Fufu. The mark of a good wife is in waking up two hours before their husband to make breakfast, of course.

Caster :: So, what would you like this morning? Food? A bath? Or perhaps...

Caster :: Ayaya, wait, wait! Why are you heading for the door at Mach speed? Okay! I understand! It was a joke! Even I can read a serious atmosphere... We're off to the Student Council room to make preparations, right? Alright! Time for a fun little outing! Of course, it goes without saying that you'll be buying me sweets at the school store.

[After a quick run around the school to confirm that nothing has changed since “last night,” I head into the student council room.]

Leo :: We’ll skip the introductions and have a review of our last session. First we’ll hear from my brother, our acting secretary.

Julius :: Hakuno Kishinami’s exploration of the Labyrinth had two results. One was the discovery of the door fortification made by an unknown routine. Afterward, we analyzed the source from the data Hakuno Kishinami recorded, but were unable to read the program. If Leo can’t do it, no one can do it. Hacking that door is impossible.

Leo :: Brother, isn’t that an exaggeration? I wasn’t able to do anything with it, but perhaps someone else could easily solve it?

Julius :: …well, the possibility isn’t zero. The student council has dubbed that door a “shield.” From now on, researching the shield will be our top priority.

Leo :: After all, we won’t be able to move forward if we can’t get past the shield. Now, acting treasurer Gawain, go ahead.

[…we made Gawain our acting treasurer?]

Gawain :: Ahem. I will deliver the results of our analysis of Rin Tohsaka and her Servant, who you encountered. To begin with our conclusion, that is the real Rin Tohsaka. There were strange points in her behavior, but broadly speaking, her character was just as we remember it.

Julius :: …well, it wasn’t quite that…nothing. Go on.

[Possibly I should note that back in the Holy Grail War, the Leo faction and Rin were bitter enemies, as the representatives of the rulers of the world, and of the rebellion against them, respectively.]

Gawain :: She called herself the queen of the moon, and attempted to capture Hakuno Kishinami. She always referred to us as “survivors.” We don’t know the reason, but she is certainly the cause of all this, the enemy who has trapped us all here. Rin Tohsaka’s Servant is a Lancer. This too is as we remember it, though there were some small differences.

Julius :: …no, Sir Gawain, that’s definitely not —

Gawain :: Julius. Do you have some objection to Leo’s conclusions?

Julius :: …go on. Indeed, either way they’re opponents we must defeat. Their internal state is a trivial problem.

Gawain :: That’s our Julius. Now, I’ll continue. Lancer is not an exceptionally powerful Servant. B+ to A class at most. As long as we’re prepared, we should be well able to crush her.

…Gawain says it as if it’s nothing, but if she’s B+ to A class, she’s a really high-level Servant. I think the standards of this pack of prodigies may be a little…

[Damn gorilla and his unrealistic standards.]

Gawain :: Also, we have confirmed that it was one of Lancer’s personal skills that obstructed our audio signal. It’s unclear if it’s a part of Lancer’s manifestation, or a Noble Phantasm, but regarding the jamming itself, we have set up multiple provisional working frequencies, so in the future we will be able to deal with it.

Leo :: Perfect. That’s my Gawain. You’re not just an accomplished knight on the battlefield, but also in magic…digital warfare.

Gawain :: No, this too is one of a knight’s skills. While I may be the bearer of a holy sword, I can’t simply rest on my laurels. Even Kings aside, being as knight is not as simple as just wielding a holy sword.

[As far as I can tell, the word he uses there actually seems to indicate firing the sword like a gun. I guess this just means all holy swords do sword beams.]

[Well, he wouldn't be a Saber if he didn't have a beam.]

Leo :: Now then. Presently, these two problems stand in our way. Any questions?

Gatou :: Yes! President, when will it be my turn?

Leo :: It sounds like there aren’t, so let’s continue. We’re still lacking in information about Lancer and Miss Tohsaka, who calls herself a queen. However, if we can just increase our fighting power, we should be able to deal with them. The problem is the shield. We’ll need to come up with at least the beginnings of a clear plan if we want to break this deadlock. So, Hakuno. Could you pass this data on to Kiara Sesshouin?

Gatou :: Huh?

Leo handed me the data on the shield. I don’t mind giving it to Kiara, but why her?

Leo :: It’s just a possibility. At present, since we can’t analyze it ourselves, we’ll have to try letting someone else give it a shot. Though I do have some hope that, if the rumors about her are true, she may know something about illegal fortification-breaching…

Rumors about Kiara…? What could that —

Leo :: I’ll leave it to you. I can’t hold a conversation with her myself. Our values and perspectives are too different.

Gatou :: Sesshouin…Sesshouin…Let me see. I think I’ve hear that somewhere…Argh-ga-ahh-argh! What is this headache, like my head’s been cleaved…! What could this be, when I thought I remembered that name, something happened to me!

…so Gatou rambles. We’ve got no other prospects, so I’ll go see Kiara.

Original translation here: https://tsukinoura.wordpress.com/2013/07/12/entry-30-the-results-are-in/. Please support the original translator.

Entry 29: Welcome to Fate, everybody has amnesia

Leo :: Aah, it finally connected. Are you all right, Hakuno? That strange jamming earlier…It was like our audio transmissions were getting interference from waves of singing. But we got the visuals from your location. We’ve confirmed the appearance of Miss Tohsaka and her Servant. We’re considering counter-measures to take against the jamming and the fortifications. You can so get some rest now, Hakuno.

Sakura :: Thanks so much for your work, Miss Kishinami. I’ve made a private room for you with my managerial clearance, so please make use of it. It’s at the end of the second floor hallway. I’ve arranged things so all external monitoring of the room is cut – you’ll have complete privacy. We’ll be able to send messages to you when you’re there if we need you, but otherwise you’ll be able to sleep in as much as you like.

[I try to enter the student council room, but Caster has other ideas.]

Caster :: Master, My Room, My Room! Let's leave the investigation for later, right now, [Let's Go] to our room!

[She said 'Let's Go' in English. Also, the room in CCC is called "My Room", also in English. It even has a little placard on the door.] 

I enter the private room Sakura prepared. It’s place for just me, and my Servant. It looks like night from its windows, which must be a sign it’s cut off from the rest of the school. In here we can talk about things we don’t want anyone else to hear.

 

Caster :: Waah, what a nice room! Sakura, GJ! Good job! I've been waiting for such a great atmosphere!

This will be our home base from now on. Caster carefully checks around the room. It's... kind of embarassing, but the second we get in the door, I nearly collapse from exhaustion. Too much has happened. Both my body and heart are exhausted. I can again feel the weight of my inexperience, and it weighs on me as Caster turns towards me and begins to speak..

Caster :: Um, Master? It took me a while to work up the resolve to ask this, but...

[She uses an analogy here, saying her resolve is equal to that of someone jumping off the stage of the Kiyomizu temple. Not really sure how to translate that.]

Caster :: Could you possibly have... forgotten me?

Hearing that makes my heart hurt. I'm not sure why I hadn't said anything up until now. I might have lost some memories, but the events that have transpired engraved themselves on my body and soul. I'm incredibly ashamed of myself for making Caster ask such a question.

Caster :: Ah, awawawa, it's okay, it's okay! I'm not angry or anything, I just wanted to check! But... Master, you look like you're in a lot of pain. It might be forward of me, but please allow me to reassure you.

Caster bows her head apologetically.

...The one who should be apologizing is me. Caster is trying to help me - she sees problems with me that I've been trying to cover up and is trying to make sure I'm okay. Well, it's never too late to start. I confess what I've been mulling over honestly. I'm in a state where I basically only remember my name. I have vague recollections of the Holy Grail War Caster and I fought together, but I can't seem to remember anything distinctly.

It's even possible that all I think I know are dummy memories planted by someone or something. What if I'm a fake?

Caster :: Ah, don't worry about that. Even if you've lost your memories, you're you ♥. Please at least have confidence in that. You know, there's no way I could mistake your spirit's scent. The markings I left won't disappear that easily.

...Um, what? Didn't she just casually say something extremely worrying?

Caster :: Mikooon! N-No, no, I was just talking to myself! But more importantly, um, too bad! You probably forgot our passionate rooftop confession, the dazzling night after, how you unfastened...

Caster ::: As a loyal wife, I'm sad... *crying*. We were so intimate! Other Servants couldn't even come close...

Caster wipes her face with the arm of her western dress and begins making crying noises... As if. She's clearly messing with me. In he first place, disregarding the possibility of those things ever happening, I'm one hundred percent sure those are crocodile tears.

Caster :: ...Darn. From that reaction, I can tell you at least remember the most important bits. As expected of my Master, who possesses an iron sense of self-restraint. Even though your memories might be weak, your resolve never falters, huh?

Caster :: Well then, I guess it's confession time. Truth be told.... I uh.... Also forgot quite a few things. Teehee. I remember fighting with you in the Grail War, but... well.. some of the memories are all jumbled up? Ah, I know why though. Servants aren't really designed to hold on to their memories. I'm lucky I even kept what I did. But the reason why you lost yours is almost certainly something else! We're involved in something fishy, for sure!

 ...I see. Just like Leo's Gawain, Caster seems to have a fragmented memory, too. I suppose she must understand what I'm talking about when I say my memories are fuzzy. In my case, I see it as a serious injury, but Caster just smiles and counts it as normal for her.

Caster :: Let's think about it like that, Master! We can start growing our love from ground zero again - I'd say we're lucky!

[Lucky in English.]

Caster :: Alright, we've got a huge pile of things to do tomorrow! For tonight, let's leave things at this - be sure to rest well and heal your body for tomorrow. Alright, let's get under the covers together - Hmm? May I inquire why my pillow is over in the corner of the room? Are you telling your pink fox to restrain herself for the first night?

Caster ::: Noo! That's so boring, Master!

[Presumably, Hakunon leaves Caster on the floor and we fade to black. Cold.]

Gil route version: https://tsukinoura.wordpress.com/2013/07/11/entry-29-rooming-with-the-king-of-heroes/

Entry 28: What we found in the Labyrinth

[We start with some really easy fights. It helps that I'm already leveled and this is new game plus, so those are basically trash mobs. The Fate Extra battle system works thus: There are three basic actions which have a rock-paper-scissors relationship, as demonstrated in the bottom left of the screen. Each round of combat is six actions, which you decide beforehand, based on what information you have available about your enemy’s actions that round. You can also use your Servant’s skills in place of standard actions, and once a round a Master can either cast a spell or use an item. That’s the basics.]

[Also, I'd like to mention that the currency is called Sakurament, which is... different. There's also no point-investing system, the servants just sorta gain stats when they level. No managing specializations anymore.]

We've been reset to square one, but even still, Caster rips through the enemy programs easily.

[Particularly because I haven't actually been reset, apparently.]

Her back is reassuring and familiar.... but Caster heaves a sigh and hangs her shoulders.

Caster :: ...Haa, this is a bit overwhelming. But you're probably feeling worse, so let's leave the conversation for later.

As I thought, Caster's noticed it too. It's a discrepancy between my memories and experience. My memories of this fight and of Caster have a large hole. I've lost a lot of valuable things while I wasn't paying attention -

I brace myself against the strong feeling of wanting to return, and like Caster, decide to leave the conversation for later. Right now, we need to focus on capturing the labyrinth.

There’s a solid door blocking the path. It looks like the arena continues past this door, but…

Leo :: An odd door, isn’t it? Its material properties are a Black Ice-model program. The security level is…star? Sakura, what is this star symbol?

Sakura :: I’ve never seen it before either. Security levels should be the same as Servant stat-measurements. The strongest security level is A, the weakest is E, and there’s EX as an exception, but…There is no star category. Wait a moment. I’ll analyze the image data from Miss Kishinami. If we have this sight data, even from here we should be able to scan…No way. Impossible to measure…? It’s not that it exceeds the limits of the counter, but it just can’t be numerically represented…!? That’s impossible! A new variety of fortification, not found in any of the Moon Cell’s libraries…!

Sakura is practically screaming in shock. When looked at by a Moon Cell AI like her, this door must be something completely incomprehensible — no, something that can’t possibly exist.

Julius :: We can worry about the fortification later. Hakuno Kishinami. The spirit particles in your area are unstable. Be on your guard. It’s just a feeling I’ve got, but maybe —

[Fuzzy screen and static!]

Julius –!? The message cuts off in the middle. His voice can’t reach me from the student council room, wiped out by a noise like a sandstorm. Over there —

Unknown speaker :: That’s as far as you go, third-rate Master and underling. Paupers like you shouldn’t stare at people’s hearts like that, you know?

—-! I turn my head at the sudden voice, but there’s no one behind me. Where is that voice coming from!? Or no, rather, is that voice —

[Enemy programs are seen to spawn around the area, and a familiar girl walks out of the door – the door doesn’t open, she just walks through it.]

Rin :: Welcome to my castle. I’m not the slightest bit glad to see you, but I’ll at least welcome you.

[…I’m starting to get Persona 4 flashbacks here.]

Caster :: Oh, is that Rin? Hiya, it's been a while.... or, I suppose I can't say that. This isn't normal, this dark aura.

Right, this is Rin Tohsaka…! One of the Masters participating in the Holy Grail War, a cut above the rest, she was a favorite to win, a virtuoso wizard. But…from what she just said…it sounds as if she’s the master of this Labyrinth —

Rin :: It doesn’t “sound like” it, it should be self-evident! You’re as transparent as always.

Caster :: She's not transparent, she just likes taking things at face value! But that's not important right now -

Caster :: Rin? Did you just make an end-boss-like proclamation?

Rin :: That’s what I said. I am the queen of this castle, the new ruler of the Moon Cell — Indeed, I am one who manages and governs you obstinate survivors, you can call me the queen of the moon!

Caster :: I'm shocked! ....Well, now that you say it, those leather boots you're wearing do sort of give off that vibe... What about the whip? Where's your whip?

[You can stop making bondage references, Tama... looks like I've got to hurry up and get you back in shrine maiden clothing -.-]

Rin says she’s the queen of the moon…? By obstinate survivors, she must me me and Leo and the others. She says she’ll manage and govern us…!?

Rin :: Heh. I can see what you’re thinking. You want to leave the far side of the moon, don’t you? That’s why you came into this Labyrinth, the only way out. But that’s too bad for you! Because I’m definitely not letting you out. Anyway, what would happen to you if you when back to the near side, Hakuno? Your abilities won’t get you further than the second round at best, and then you be beaten and die. Or do you really want to die? If that’s it — then it should be fine for me to just do it here, right?

…I can’t believe this. This behavior is so out of place on Rin it’s even shocking to me, with my vague memories. Rin followed the principle of strength, but always played fair and honest. She was a rival I came to trust more than anyone, so why she now surrounding by this freezing atmosphere —

Rin :: You really are an idiot, Kishinami. You would have been fine if you’d just obediently stayed holed up in the school, but you just came in here all unconcernedly, like a turtle. A sucker just begging to be taken for a ride. This castle is our castle. Whatever enters it is our property. I won’t get let you away by complaining, so just prepare yourself.

Ah, Rin’s serious…! She licks her lips, and raises one arm menacingly. On that hand is the mark of a Master, her command seal…!

Caster :: Lancer, right? Bring it on!

Rin :: Right answer! That’s your cue, Lancer!

[Though not apparent in this picture, Lancer has a lizard-like tail, to go with those horns.]

…Lancer? This red-haired girl? Rin’s Servant was a Lancer, but something about this is different from my memories…

Caster :: ...! Get back, Master - this girl is ready to go!

Lancer :: Heheh…fine with me. My interest is peaked. I think they’ll make an excellent main dish this time around. I’ve been getting so bored of those sacrifices. These children should cry out nicely for me, though. Hey, pig over there. Your name, if you please?

Caster :: A pig?! That's gonna be a DEB from me, damn it! Don't get all cocky just because you look young!

[I think DEB stands for "Dont Even Bother" here? We'll be having more adventures desperately trying to translate Caster's acronym spam without knowing what language she's even abbreviating later. Wish me luck.]

Lancer :: And why shouldn’t I call a pig a pig? You should take it as praise. For me to deign to call you by name. You could at least climax. Come on, quickly. Squeal like a pig. Squeal, I said! Squeal! Just squeal! Please! Why aren’t you squealing? No way, what is this….they told me that in this world everything would be however I desired! This is not what I was promised, manager! Argh, this headache won’t stop…!

That Servant is tearing out her hair. The things she’s saying are confused, but her eyes have fallen into madness. Even I can tell that this girl in red has defeated countless Servants. Though as swiftly as Caster at my side, I do notice the scent of blood wafting from Lancer.

Rin :: Lancer, just calm down. It’s just an accident, they just happen to not be listening to you. And besides, if you just stab them everything will be settled. Anyone would squeal if you pierce them with your lance. Just…naturally.

Lancer :: — Ri, right! That’s just like you, Rin. You’re so sharp, it’s fantastic to have you on my side.

Rin :: That’s my line, Lancer. You have such a useful temper, I’d think you were a Berserker.

Lancer :: Heeheehee. Even if you praise me, I won’t give you any money, Rin.

Rin :: Heeheehee. Likewise, don’t think I won’t work you to the bone again today.

[Okay guys this has gone far enough, you need to get a room.]

Lancer :: Heehee — hahahahaha! You responses are the best! This is delightful, Rin!

Rin ::  Oh yes, as delightful as a massive failure in the stock market! Ahahahahahahahahaha!

Caster :: Th - This character overlap! They're both tsundere! Ah, this pattern is a little old, huh?

Right, this is no time to stand here dumbfounded. Honestly, what I’d like to do is run out of here and pretend I never saw anything, but that Servant’s powers and killing intent are quite real. What should I do, fight, or run—?

[>] Retreat for now
> Challenge them

Caster :: It's a little frustrating to back off against that horned woman, but let's just withdraw and prepare for the rematch.

As my Servant says, it’s time for what I think they call the 36th stratagem? Our opponents’ abilities and true nature are unclear, an on top of that your own powers have been decreased. There’s not even a chance if we challenge them here.

…plus. Though it seems unbelievable, Rin and Lancer are going crazy with their high-pitched laughter and are paying any attention to what we’re doing. I’ll just retreat slowly, get enough distance, and then just run —-!

[We run away!]

Rin :: Ahahaha…huh? Lancer, where did those suckers go? Did we already beat them?

Lancer :: What? But I haven’t moved an inch. ….huh, they’re gone. Rin. Are you some kind of idiot?

Rin :: I don’t want you calling me that, of all people —-!

With the voices of Rin and her red Servant behind us, we run out of the Labyrinth. …it looks like we’re not being pursued, but we have two new mysteries to deal with. The door blocking our path, and Rin Tohsaka’s sudden transformation. From Rin’s words, it sounds like she’s the master of this Labyrinth, the culprit who has trapped us all inside the school. What on earth could have happened to her —-?

The original translation can be found here: https://tsukinoura.wordpress.com/2013/07/10/entry-28-what-we-found-in-the-labyrinth/. Please support the original translator.

Entry 27: I miss my Mantras

[So, tutorial battle happens, though I refuse Leo’s actual tutorial as I know exactly how this game plays, thanks. Second option for that. Caster uses melee attacks, but her true strength relies in her skills.]

Caster :: No way! There's no way I'm this weak! Uwaaah, even though we put so much effort into getting them the first time..... "Mantra: Bestial Sky"-chan, come back!

…? Caster looks strange. We valiantly crushed that enemy program, but she makes a face as if we’d been defeated.

Caster :: Uu. That was the defeat of a lifetime. It seems I've returned to a divinity level below even the lowliest fish... The proof of the love we share, my skill levels that we worked so hard to raise have returned to square one! Hmm, could this all be the work of the restraint...? Mm... Maybe half the restraint, half some other type of drain, I think.

This is new information, but I'm not as surprised as I think I should be. After all, I've also returned to a similar state. Between the master with no memories and the servant with no skills, we're two peas in a severely damaged pod.

Leo :: — really? My own Gawain is as normal, but…

[Whoa, you guys are hearing this too?]

Julius :: …Leo. A question about Noble Phantasms. Skills regardless, are their Noble Phantasms in tact?

Noble Phantasms. A Servant’s trump card, the “mark of a hero” that makes their true name clear. All Servants are able to use that manifestation of their legend as a “weapon.” For a famous swordsman, a unique sword. For a hero of myth, a miracle told of in their legend. Caster should be no exception. As I remember, her Noble Phantasm was ---

Caster :: Indeed, it's been perfectly sealed. This seems to be a system lock. A different problem than the restraint. Well, my Noble Phantasm was awarded the honor of "User's Choice Number One Useless Noble Phantasm", so it doesn't really matter...

Leo :: …That is a problem. Setting aside the costume change, being at ground zero is a problem for a servant...

Sakura :: Um... That may not be a problem. It's really difficult even in the Moon Cell to just 'reset' a servant. The curse that forced that formal wear on you is probably temporary. While you wear it your skills might be reset, but if you manage to remove it your skills should return.

Leo :: Oh, really? Well, there’s no problem then. Let’s think of this as good luck instead.

Caster :: Are you some kind of sadist?!

Leo :: It’s good luck. Move on from one to ten. Attain great strength from your present weakness. You have nothing now, so climb out of this predicament and mature — I know well just whose specialty that is, having fought alongside you before, Caster.

[Aww, Leo. You remember Fate/Extra.]

Caster :: Well, I suppose that's true...

Leo :: Then, please begin your exploration. I'm sure you'll overcome all adversity with style.

Caster nods reluctantly in response to Leo’s words. It’s strange, how with my fuzzy memories, Leo 

knows more about me and Caster than I do, but I can’t just stand here. Let’s move forward. 

Original translation: https://tsukinoura.wordpress.com/2013/07/09/entry-27-we-have-a-problem-and-it-is-mostly-gilgamesh/. Please support the original translator.

Entry 26: Entering the Labyrinth

Sakura :: Ah, um…

As soon as I leave the school building, I’m stopped by Sakura. Did she come to see me off?

Sakura :: …Please be careful. The inside of the Labyrinth is *her* territory. If you meet her…don’t fight her or…

“Her”…? From what Sakura just said, this “her” sounds like the master of the Labyrinth…or the main culprit behind all of this. Does Sakura who who or what our “enemy” is?

Sakura :: …I see. I shouldn’t have mentioned it. If you find yourself in danger, please come back quickly.

[Sakura vanishes. Then Caster appears.]

Caster :: Ah, she disappeared. It seems like she doesn't have enough power to manifest outside of the building. The evasiveness doesn't stop there, though - she's one of the Moon Cell's AIs. She's supposed to prioritize system maintenance over everything else. Normally, she'd choose to use her power to keep the system maintained over helping masters, but... I suppose that on this side of the moon, it's not like disobeying that perogative'll get you punished instantly like on the near side. Having Sakura as an ally sure is convenient! Also... Isn't it more fun to leave secrets as just that - secret? Let's hurry to the labyrinth!

[Caster goes poof.]

I guess Caster is right. Though Sakura’s words may weigh on my mind, right now my first priority is to investigate the Sakura Labyrinth. The mysterious arena constructed on the far side of the moon — is there really something awaiting us in there?

[As Hakuno approaches the tree and hole opens up in it with an iron gate. The gate opens and she steps inside.]

Sakura Labyrinth Floor -01: Escape from New Moon

— I feel we’ve descended into a deep hollow. Following an intoxicating feeling like falling asleep, we’re standing here in this strange place. The first things I notice are the evening sun sinking below the horizon, and the towering castle spires. I can’t see the ground. The path stretches out like a thread cast every which way. There’s a scent of iron in the wind here, like a telltale trace of blood staining this beautiful scenery.

[Phone ringing sound!]

Leo :: Signal, confirmed. Can you hear me, Hakuno? This is the student council room. We’re presently configuring our resources to set the protection of your virtual brain as our highest priority. Though we call it an arena, that place is still the far side of the moon…a “world that is not,” constructed from imaginary numbers. We will be keeping an eye on all of the numerical values that compose you, and protecting you from existential collapse.

Leo’s message is reassuring. When he talks about keeping an eye on my numerical values, and existential collapse, that means that in the student council room they’ll be monitoring me to make sure they don’t lose track of my location, I think.

[I don’t think that’s what that really means, Hakuno. But if it makes you feel better.]

Sakura :: Right. To make a simple comparison, you’re underwater now. Please think of it like we’re sending you oxygen so you can survive down there. The sensors and monitors are all working. We can’t scan the Sakura Labyrinth from the council room, but by instead using our equipment to monitor Miss Kishinami, we can infer information about the state of your surroundings. The internal structure of the Labyrinth seems much like the arena. And then…what is this, signs of life…we have indications of life from throughout the whole Labyrinth.

Julius :: Signs of life…which means there are other humans who have entered the Labyrinth before us?

Sakura :: No, the gate was just created, so there shouldn’t be any other lifeforms inside the Labyrinth. If there are, that’s —

Leo :: Something that was in the Labyrinth from the beginning. Possibly they’re other victims who didn’t make it to the old school building.

Sakura :: …I think it’s quite possible. But…it’s strange…the signals I’m picking up from these lifeforms are very strong, but I can’t ID them…I’m sorry, the life signs are presently unclear. Can you see your navigation map, Miss Kishinami? It should at least by able to pick up signs of enemies in your immediate vicinity. Still, all we can do from here is keep our camera focused on you and monitor what happens there. …so, please be cautious. If the situation becomes dangerous, please return to the school.

Leo :: As Sakura says. We are currently maintaining a stairway connecting your present location to the school. if you feel endangered, come back here. Now, please go and explore your locale.

Caster :: Hmmm, we should watch out for bugs, but it'll probably be fine. Worrying here would be a waste of time. Let's try to keep to the basics ♥ Alright, Master. Though this castle looks like it was put together by someone with questionable hobbies, let's go sightseeing!

Caster looks toward the arena boldly, as if there is nothing to be afraid of. I swallow nervously. Caster and her composure might as well be in a different dimension from mine, where I can’t seem to tell right from left. Though the labyrinth is as unknown to Caster as to me, it seems she has absolute confidence in her directions.

...My uneasiness grows. It's true that Caster and I are in this together. I can definitely feel that. But - due to my missing memories, I'm completely inexperienced. Not being able to remember what happened in the holy grail war - I'm pathetic. To have forgotten something so pivotal - am I breaking down?

Caster :: Master? It's not like that muscly idiot Berserker is here or anything, so go forth without hesitation. I feel like even if we totally mess up we'll still figure something out!

Caster invites me forward. ...That's right, this isn't the time to hesitate. I'll answer her faith in me even if I'm worried! Let's conquer this arena!

[Gameplay time! I've got to admit, I'm not looking forward to the first few fights here where I don't have any skills, but I'll figure something out.]

Original translation: https://tsukinoura.wordpress.com/2013/07/09/entry-26-entering-the-labyrinth/. Please support the original translator.