Can't a guy just farm commissions in peace?

He raised the brilliant golden holy sword high, as endless Imaginary Energy converged toward it. "Divine Era Aether," "Mana," "Spiritual Power," "Honkai Energy"—though these went by different names, in the vast cosmos, all such "natural energies" existing within the boundless universe could be unified under "Imaginary Energy." The only differences were the impurities mixed in and the varying proportions of their composition.

"The Thirteen Restraints—release!"

The Star Sword projected by Mr. Emiya ultimately belonged to Artoria's Star Sword, and upon it naturally existed the restraints imposed by the ten-plus Knights of the Round Table.

But with the existence of Aether Editing, Mr. Emiya could naturally "modify" the already projected product once more, unleashing the full power of the true Star Sword.

"This sword can actually bear Imaginary Energy surpassing that of a Doomsday Beast Core. If it could be mass-produced, it might make for a decent weapon."

From within the Doomsday Beast's body, overlooking the man gathering infinite Imaginary Energy, one of the Lords of Annihilation, Iron Tomb, couldn't help but laugh.

"Though I missed the chance to destroy some of Herta's puppets... running into an interesting Nameless like you isn't a bad gain either."

"Initiate self-destruct mode. Overlimit output."

He issued the command to the Doomsday Beast's core. Though elite soldiers like Doomsday Beasts weren't as easy to produce as ordinary Void Trotters, as one of the Lords of Annihilation, using a couple of Doomsday Beasts as consumables wouldn't draw any objections from the Antimatter Legion.

"Bro... you think that highly of me?"

Mr. Emiya's heart tightened. The fact that a Lord of Annihilation was behind this Doomsday Beast was practically certain. Though he wasn't personally boarding the space station, the manually micro-managed Doomsday Beast was clearly a tier stronger. If he handled it wrong, he might actually capsize in a ditch.

This is what they call a Concept God, huh. March 7th, my friend, I really hope next time you'll bless the other side's buddy.

With a general like this, how could our side ever lose?

"Time to buff the enemy."

Watching the opponent's Imaginary Energy grow more and more massive, Mr. Emiya couldn't hold back either. Beam-clashing was romantic enough, but if the other side wanted to play at self-destruct attacks, he'd have to show them a bit of Type-Moon tradition.

"[Giant Beast], [Destroyer], [Evil Attribute]..."

The "Aether Editing" copied from Silver Wolf could naturally add "Debuffs" to enemies. Adding weaknesses like Ice Weakness or Fire Weakness, as in games, was one manifestation. And Type-Moon had its own traditional Debuff: "Special Weakness." As long as you had the targeted special attack capability, the enemy's positive buffs would become the reason they got farmed for coins.

He activated some of the "past records" existing on the Doomsday Beast. It might be difficult to create attributes out of thin air, but merely editing latent "attributes" into existence wasn't hard.

"Beam-clashing as a combat style is brutal—only one side gets to have fun. Remember for next life: don't stand on the left when clashing beams, unless your right side is Dyna."

"Excalibur—!"

Chapter 12: Why Talk Tough After Eating a Loss? (4/4)

Beam to the face.

This is the romance of the Saber Class in Type-Moon.

A Saber who can't fire beams—is that even a Saber?

The interview questionnaire for Saber-class Servants first asks about beam color.

How could anyone debut as a Saber without even knowing how to fire a beam?

Right, Miss Okita?

Watching the Doomsday Beast completely swallowed by the golden torrent, Mr. Emiya wore a satisfied smile on his face. In the previous conventional fight, he'd just been tossing projected Noble Phantasms like Golden Gilgamesh, or else wielding black-and-white twin blades to hack at the enemy's elbows. Beam attacks—back when he was low on mana—he wouldn't dare use recklessly.

But now, In this cosmic starry sky, Imaginary Energy was abundant to the point of near infinity. Using only a small amount of Lesser Source Mana, he could easily leverage this vast Imaginary Energy. If Artoria herself had come to this world, she could probably dual-wield two Curry Sticks and spam beams mindlessly.

Type-Moon's realm might seem like it never left the surface or entered outer space, with fights sometimes limited to martial arts and weapon combat. But in reality, many monsters were merely constrained by a "low-magic" environment. Not to mention monsters like Aoko, who had mastered the Fifth Magic—even prodigy magi like Wodime or Kaineth, placed in this environment, could unleash infinite potential.

"Specialized attacks against specific attributes... I'm increasingly curious about that sword's manufacturing process."

The golden torrent faded. The Doomsday Beast that had once stood upright on the ground was now nothing but a shattered lower half. The core that had originally emitted super-high energy levels now had cracks spreading across its surface. Though on the verge of destruction, the core still seemed connected to its puppeteer.

"The ability used on the Doomsday Beast at the end should be 'Aether Editing.'"

"That peculiar Imaginary Energy also has traces of 'Mystery.'"

"Plus that energy weapon of unknown craftsmanship..."

"That Navigator lady seems quite skilled at picking up remarkable 'materials' like you from the Sea of Stars."

One of the Lords of Annihilation sighed in such a manner. After a brief pause, the Lord spoke again, "I hope to see you on my 'experiment table' in the near future. I'll look forward to our next—"

Before his words could finish, the remaining part was abruptly replaced by a series of harsh static noises. Mr. Emiya raised an eyebrow slightly, then slowly broke into a mocking smile.

"Just a piece of scrap metal—why bother imitating humans and spouting nonsense?"

"But thanks to you, I've gotten quite a few interesting things."

What he'd copied from Silver Wolf included not only "Aether Editing" but also "Stellar Hacker" techniques. While using Aether Editing to activate various attributes on the Doomsday Beast, Mr. Emiya had also slipped some things into its core. And that Lord of Annihilation over there, apparently used to looking down from on high, hadn't severed the connection with the Doomsday Beast right away, instead rambling on with threats.

Thinking back to Phantom on the Xianzhou, who also stubbornly talked tough after eating a loss, Mr. Emiya's smile grew even more amused.

"Lord of Annihilation, Iron Tomb... As far as I know, you're called the Silence of Technology and the Decay of Wisdom. So why are you the one going silent now?"

"Part of the 175th edition design drawings for the 'Forge of War'? The 65th edition design drawings for the 'Antimatter Engine'? Interesting. I'm wondering—should I sell them at an IPC auction? Or lend them to the Genius Society for research?"

"Or maybe posting the footage of our fight to the Masked Tavern wouldn't be bad either. Might even get 'Joy' to let out a big laugh."

"If the Destruction Gang sees this video, do you think they'll feel you've disgraced 'Destruction'? That straightforward Grand Duke of Flame might even make some rather intense remarks."

Hearing these words from Mr. Emiya, Iron Tomb gave no further response. Asta and March 7th didn't know much about the factions in the universe, but the Space Station Defense Department personnel, who had pulled back a bit, had expressions that were extremely interesting.

A Doomsday Beast hidden in the space station was already exciting enough. To think a Lord of Annihilation was controlling it from behind the scenes. The reinforcement Asta had brought not only didn't fall into a disadvantage against a Lord of Annihilation, but even made that Lord eat a considerable loss. And after the other party clearly ate a loss and fell silent, he even poured fuel on the fire with provocation...

That's a Lord of Annihilation over there, an Emanator of Destruction. They must have countless experiences destroying planets, slaughtering billions upon billions of lives.

Beneath the starry sky, ranked as the first sequence below the Aeons—such a fearsome figure, whose name alone makes ordinary people pale. And this tough guy not only slapped that face, but also wants to stomp on it and keep jumping?

"Mr. Emiya, that's a Lord of Annihilation, you know. Shouldn't you tone it down a bit?"

March 7th poked Shirou's waist and muttered quietly, "What if he charges over right now? Wouldn't we be done for?"

"He's already cut off contact from this side. Besides, even if he did charge over, it wouldn't be the end."

Shirou rubbed his chin and said with a smile, "Though a Lord of Annihilation is strong, it depends on the person. If it were that Great Lord of Scorching Wind, we'd need to be careful. But this Iron Tomb Lord is more of an expert in the field of technology. Even if he really does come, with Old Yang and me working together, he can't do much to us."

"'Destruction's' enemies are spread across the universe. If they sent multiple Lords to assault this Herta Space Station, the Emanators of the Genius Society wouldn't just sit by and watch."

"On the contrary, they'd have to be careful. If they accidentally lost one or two, like Zhuluo back in the day, they'd become the laughingstock of the entire universe."

"By then..."

"By then we'd be safe?"

March 7th's eyes lit up. Mr. Emiya patted her head and said softly, "I mean, by then we wouldn't have to struggle anymore. The Destruction Aeon would cast one glance down, and we could all start over together."

"Then don't let that bad guy come over! I still have so many things I haven't experienced—I don't want to die so pointlessly!"

"Is there a chance, March 7th, that if you keep making these assumptions, he might actually charge over?"

"I told you, I'm not a jinx!"

"I don't believe you, unless you say right now: 'Shirou Emiya's draws will never get a color, gold, or hidden jackpot.'"

013: We Need a Term More Advanced Than "Printing Money" to Describe It.

Doomsday Beast subjugation complete.

And on top of that, they repelled a Lord of Annihilation.

When this report reached Asta, even that young lady broke out in a cold sweat. Though she had emergency protocols to contact Herta, if a Lord of Annihilation struck without warning, she might not even have time to use them.

Especially since the one who appeared in the space station was an expert in "technology"—beneath the vast, boundless starry sky, known by the remnants of countless destroyed planets as the "Silencer," the Iron Tomb Lord.

Many planets fell because of their confidence in their own technological defenses. But this Iron Tomb Lord possessed the ability to easily paralyze or even betray AI systems, and to strip mechanical creations of all operational logic.

"So there was a hidden Lord of Annihilation."

When Sister Himeko heard the news, she was also somewhat surprised. "Though he was only lurking behind the scenes, the fact that you, Shirou, could repel that Lord shows your strength is truly extraordinary. It seems our train has gained another capable ally."

"Is there a chance that our train actually has quite a few capable allies?"

A former Herrscher of Reason, a former Named Dragon Lord, a March 7th of unknown identity whose score couldn't be measured by the Score-Setting Gun, plus Trailblazer Ah Xing, who can easily switch classes as long as she has the key items.

Though not quite at the Emanator level, once Ah Xing grows for a while, those Emanators won't be able to easily take down anyone on the train.

If they ever mistook March 7th for a soft target and stabbed her through, she might just awaken on the spot. Guesses like "Memory" Emanator or "Beauty" Aeon were plenty when he played the game.

"Asta sent a message. She'll report the matter of the Lord of Annihilation to Herta. Besides giving you the original commission reward of one billion Credits, she'll also try to secure some additional compensation from Herta beyond Credits."

"The rich lady sure is generous."

Shirou nodded in satisfaction. Though Asta was young, standing in a high position meant she wasn't lacking in worldly tact.

Her values might be a bit skewed, but that was only because her family's starting point was too high.

"One billion?!"

March 7th, who had been sitting nearby eating melon, widened her eyes when she heard the number from Himeko.

"Sister Himeko, did you just say Shirou's commission reward is one billion Credits?"

"That number is indeed significant, but for Asta, it's nothing."

As the Navigator, Himeko had seen the world. A mere one billion Credits wasn't enough to shock her. If she wanted Credits, just the project of repairing the Star Rails would earn her a fortune, and even the IPC would have to watch her lead.

"Asta's parents are both high-ranking officials in the IPC. To the company's upper echelons, Credits are just ordinary numbers."

After all, they really did print money over there.

With the existence of the Cosmic Curio "Split Coin," precious metals could be infinitely duplicated like cultivable mycelium, easily destroying any planet that used precious metals as a currency standard.

For the IPC, making money wasn't even the primary goal. They could issue as many Credits as they wanted. Trading across the universe was just to better serve Klippers, the Amber King.

"One billion... so nice. If I had one billion, I'd..."

Miss March 7th fell into a fantasy. But since she'd been living on the train since thawing out, influenced by those around her, she had no imagination for luxury goods or extravagant living. In the end, she only thought of being able to eat lots of delicious food.

"Ah Xing, when I get rich, I'll definitely take you to eat all over the universe!"

Little Pink Hair made a grand declaration to Little Grey Hair beside her. But Little Grey Hair blinked, was silent for a moment, then suddenly pointed at Shirou and said, "He... is very good at cooking."

"Huh?"

"The first time I saw Shirou, all kinds of delicious food popped into my head. Though I've lost my memories, I'm sure Shirou is great at cooking."

"Really?!"

March 7th's eyes lit up. Most of the meals on the train were handled by the conductor, but the conductor's cooking was often done through machines, and there were even plenty of pre-made dishes and convenience meals bought from other planets. The taste was only passable—fine at first, but the monotonous flavors grew tiresome after a few repeats.

Although Welt and Himeko occasionally cooked as well, those two reliable adults didn't seem to place much importance on culinary indulgence, so their skills were merely average.

"Mr. Emiya, please let me witness your extraordinary culinary skills!"

"March, Mr. Emiya here is actually very lenient with friends. As long as that friend can say 'Shirou Emiya will never win a big prize from gacha' once, I'll be satisfied and head into the kitchen."

"...That's a denial of my character, Emiya."

March 7th met Emiya's expectant gaze, her expression as resolute as someone joining a party. Her voice was calm, her eyes focused, and she spoke seriously, "I will absolutely not cater to you just for some culinary cravings!"

Hearing this, Aether was momentarily stunned, looking March 7th up and down as if seeing her in a new light. But the very next second, this young girl, who had just seemed as steadfast as a veteran heading to the battlefield, suddenly shifted her tone, "However, from the standpoint of a friend, I simply can't turn down your request."

"Shirou Emiya will never win a big prize from gacha."

With an incantation speed rivaling High-Speed Divine Incantation, March 7th quickly recited the words Emiya wanted to hear.

"Good."

Mr. Emiya showed a satisfied smile, and Aether also revealed a relieved expression. Dan Heng had been observing this farce from the sidelines for a long time, and finally hearing March 7th's declaration, he wore a wry, helpless smile.

"With the Jinx buff active, let's do a test pull right here."

He rubbed his hands together, quickly opened the gacha interface, and brought up the random card pool page earned from the Space Station's cleanup commission. Without hesitation, he clicked a single pull. Seconds later, when a deep crimson light more dazzling than rainbow hues flooded his vision, Mr. Emiya couldn't help but gape, "March 7th! You're my god!"