Fate/EXTRA Last Encore Season 1 Episode 9 Aestus Domus Aurea

As Hakuno and Saber reach the top of the endless stairs, they find themselves in a strange, golden hall. This is Aestus Domus Aurea, the ostentatious palace of the Emperor Nero. But this isn't just a replica of the real palace; something is off. The palace is deserted, and the only life is coming from strange, gold creatures roaming the halls. As they explore, Hakuno and Saber find that the palace is more of a labyrinth, with rooms and hallways twisting and turning in impossible ways.

As they wander through the maze, they encounter another Master and Servant duo. The Master, a woman named Rin Tohsaka, seems to know more about the palace than they do. Rin and her Saber inform Hakuno and Saber that this place is a manifestation of Emperor Nero's Noble Phantasm. In life, Nero was obsessed with the palace and its opulence, and in death, that obsession created this endless maze. Rin suggests that the only way to escape is to defeat Nero and destroy the Noble Phantasm.

Together, the four navigate the palace's twisting pathways, battling the golden creatures that block their way. Rin is a skilled mage and uses her magic to weaken the creatures, allowing Saber and Hakuno to take them down. Along the way, they also encounter a strange, otherworldly creature who appears to be manipulating the palace's layout. This creature seems to be interested in Hakuno and the potential power they hold.

As they approach Nero's throne room, they are met with a gauntlet of powerful Servants, including a menacing Berserker. The battle is intense, and the four are pushed to their limits. Hakuno's powers continue to develop, and they are able to summon a powerful weapon to aid in the fight. Eventually, they defeat the final enemy, and the palace begins to crumble around them. They barely escape before the palace collapses in on itself.

As they emerge outside, Rin and Saber part ways, intending to pursue their own goals. Hakuno and Saber continue their journey, reflecting on the strange events of the palace. They wonder about the mysterious creature they encountered and the source of Hakuno's powers. The episode ends with them continuing to move forward on their quest for the Holy Grail.

Overall, Aestus Domus Aurea is a thrilling episode that combines action with a clever exploration of a Noble Phantasm. The palace's labyrinthine design creates a sense of tension and danger, as the characters never quite know what will be around the next corner. The battle scenes are intense and well-done, showcasing each character's unique abilities. The episode also leaves room for intriguing questions about the larger Fate/EXTRA universe and the nature of its characters' powers.