"The other side has multiple Servants. They can retreat under the Servants' cover at any time. If we failed to achieve results at the outset, any further battle would be meaningless."
"I see. That was one of the possibilities I had anticipated, so it is hardly surprising... Still, it is rather unfortunate. If we could have struck earlier and killed him, this Holy Grail War would practically have been over."
Lancer's expression turned somewhat teasing. "And yet, you did lose, didn't you?"
"...I do not deny it."
After a moment of silence, Rider spoke honestly. "The Red Lancer's spearwork is the finest I have ever seen. His destructive power, willpower, and judgment are all exceptional as well. So long as neither side unleashes their Noble Phantasm, even I cannot defeat him."
"The Red Lancer... How nostalgic."
"Hmm?"
"Pay it no mind. I was merely reminded of something."
Vlad III did not conceal anything and said directly, "In a certain time and space, I once fought him. He truly was an extremely troublesome hero. In a fair one-on-one duel, among all those I know, there is no hero capable of surpassing him."
"His technique has already transcended the limitations of any single weapon. I imagine that even with a blade, a sword, or his bare hands, he could reach an inhuman realm of divinity... Among my own knights, only one or two could compare to a warrior like that."
Rider acknowledged her enemy's excellence, but she was not discouraged by it. Instead, a faint excitement tinged her calm voice.
"He is a challenging opponent. I thought this Holy Grail War would be completely without suspense, but now I am starting to take an interest!"
"It seems you are quite pleased. That is truly wonderful."
Vlad III promised, "I shall arrange a