Fate/Apocrypha: Season 1, Episode 12 - The Saint's Triumphant Return (2017)

The episode begins with the aftermath of the battle at the Fuyuki Holy Grail War. The scene opens with the remnants of the Red and Black factions regrouping after the intense confrontation. The atmosphere is tense, filled with uncertainty and the weight of loss. The camera pans over the battlefield, showcasing the destruction and the fallen Servants, emphasizing the stakes of the conflict.

We then shift to the Red faction's base, where Shirou Kotomine, the master of the Red faction, is seen grappling with the consequences of the recent events. He is conflicted, feeling the burden of his decisions and the loss of his comrades. His internal struggle is palpable as he reflects on the nature of the Holy Grail and the cost of victory. This moment sets the tone for his character's motivations throughout the episode.

Meanwhile, the Black faction, led by the enigmatic Ruler, Jeanne d'Arc, is preparing for their next move. Jeanne is depicted as a beacon of hope, her resolve unwavering despite the chaos surrounding her. She gathers her remaining allies, including the formidable Saber of Black, and discusses their strategy moving forward. The camaraderie among the group is evident, showcasing their determination to fight for a just cause.

As the plot progresses, we witness a pivotal moment when the Red faction's Assassin, who has been lurking in the shadows, makes a bold move. He confronts Shirou, leading to a tense standoff. The dialogue is charged with emotion, as both characters express their conflicting ideologies regarding the Holy Grail and the nature of heroism. This confrontation escalates into a physical fight, with Assassin utilizing his agility and stealth to gain the upper hand. Shirou, fueled by desperation, fights back with determination, showcasing his growth as a master.

The battle intensifies, with both characters exchanging blows and utilizing their abilities. The choreography is dynamic, highlighting the skills of each combatant. Shirou's resolve is tested as he struggles to keep up with Assassin's speed. Just as it seems Shirou might be overwhelmed, Jeanne intervenes, her presence shifting the tide of the confrontation. She stands between the two, her aura commanding respect and attention.

With Jeanne's intervention, the focus shifts to her confrontation with Assassin. The tension is palpable as she challenges him, her determination to protect her allies evident. The fight that ensues is fierce, with Jeanne showcasing her noble spirit and combat prowess. The animation captures the fluidity of their movements, emphasizing the stakes of the battle. Jeanne's resolve is tested as she faces the relentless attacks from Assassin, but she remains steadfast, embodying the ideals of a true hero.

As the battle rages on, the emotional stakes rise. Shirou watches Jeanne fight, feeling a mix of admiration and guilt for relying on her strength. This internal conflict drives him to push past his limits, igniting a newfound determination within him. The scene captures his struggle, showcasing his growth as a character and his desire to protect those he cares about.

The climax of the episode occurs when Jeanne, with a powerful strike, manages to subdue Assassin. The moment is charged with emotion, as she stands victorious yet aware of the cost of their battles. The aftermath of the confrontation leaves the characters reflecting on their choices and the path ahead. The camera lingers on their expressions, capturing the weight of their experiences and the uncertainty of the future.

In the final moments of the episode, the focus shifts back to Shirou and Jeanne as they regroup with their allies. The atmosphere is one of cautious optimism, yet the looming threat of the Holy Grail War remains. The episode closes with a sense of unresolved tension, leaving viewers anticipating the next chapter in their journey. The characters' motivations and emotional states are intricately woven into the narrative, setting the stage for the challenges that lie ahead.

In the ending of Fate/Apocrypha, episode 12 titled "The Saint's Triumphant Return," the battle reaches its climax as the remaining Servants and Masters confront each other. Sieg, having transformed into a powerful being, faces off against the formidable Jeanne d'Arc, who is determined to fulfill her duty. The episode culminates in a dramatic confrontation that leads to significant sacrifices and the resolution of the Holy Grail War.

As the episode unfolds, the scene opens with the aftermath of the intense battle. The battlefield is littered with the remnants of the conflict, and the air is thick with tension. Sieg, now fully aware of his identity and purpose, stands resolute. He has embraced his role as a homunculus, created to be a vessel for the Holy Grail, but he yearns for freedom and a life of his own.

Jeanne d'Arc, embodying the spirit of a true hero, is determined to protect humanity from the chaos that the Holy Grail can unleash. Her resolve is palpable as she prepares to confront the threat that Sieg represents, despite the bond they share. The emotional weight of their connection hangs heavily in the air, as both characters grapple with their destinies.

As the battle commences, the two engage in a fierce clash. Jeanne, wielding her divine powers, unleashes a barrage of attacks, while Sieg counters with his newfound abilities. The choreography of their fight is both beautiful and tragic, showcasing their conflicting desires: Jeanne's duty to protect and Sieg's desire for autonomy.

In a pivotal moment, Sieg reveals his true power, transforming into a dragon-like form. This transformation symbolizes his struggle for identity and freedom, as he seeks to break free from the chains of his creation. The visual spectacle of his transformation is awe-inspiring, filled with vibrant colors and dynamic animation that captures the intensity of the moment.

As the battle reaches its zenith, Jeanne is faced with a heart-wrenching decision. She understands that to save humanity, she may have to sacrifice Sieg. The emotional turmoil within her is evident as she grapples with the implications of her actions. The stakes are raised, and the tension escalates as both characters push their limits.

In the climax of the episode, Sieg and Jeanne's confrontation culminates in a moment of profound connection. They share a fleeting understanding of each other's pain and purpose, leading to a moment of vulnerability. However, the harsh reality of their roles in the Holy Grail War cannot be ignored. In a final act of desperation, Sieg makes a choice that will alter the course of their fates.

Sieg ultimately sacrifices himself, using his power to destroy the Holy Grail and prevent its corrupting influence from spreading. This act of selflessness is a testament to his growth as a character, as he chooses to protect humanity over his own desires. The explosion of energy that follows is both devastating and beautiful, marking the end of the conflict.

In the aftermath, Jeanne is left standing amidst the ruins, her heart heavy with loss. She mourns Sieg's sacrifice, recognizing the weight of her duty and the cost of their battle. The episode closes with a poignant reflection on the nature of heroism, sacrifice, and the complexities of their intertwined fates.

The fates of the main characters are sealed in this climactic moment. Sieg, having fulfilled his purpose, finds peace in his sacrifice, while Jeanne is left to carry the burden of his loss and the responsibility of protecting humanity. The Holy Grail War concludes, but the emotional scars and the memories of their struggle linger, leaving a lasting impact on all who were involved.

In "Fate/Apocrypha" Season 1, Episode 12, titled "The Saint's Triumphant Return," there is indeed a post-credit scene.

As the episode concludes, the screen fades to black, and then a new scene emerges. It features a serene landscape, with a gentle breeze rustling through the grass. The camera pans to reveal a figure standing alone on a hilltop, gazing out over the horizon. This figure is revealed to be Jeanne d'Arc, who appears contemplative and serene, embodying a sense of peace after the tumultuous events of the Holy Grail War.

In this moment, Jeanne reflects on her journey and the sacrifices made by her allies and enemies alike. Her expression is a mix of sadness and resolve, as she acknowledges the weight of her responsibilities and the impact of her choices. The scene captures her internal struggle, highlighting her desire to protect humanity while grappling with the consequences of her actions.

The post-credit scene serves as a poignant reminder of the themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the burdens of heroism that permeate the series. It leaves viewers with a sense of hope, as Jeanne stands as a symbol of resilience, ready to face whatever challenges may come next. The scene fades out, leaving a lasting impression of her character's journey and the ongoing legacy of the Holy Grail War.

Astolfo plays a pivotal role in this episode as a key ally to Jeanne and the other protagonists. His cheerful demeanor contrasts with the dark events unfolding around him, providing moments of levity. However, his bravery and strategic thinking are crucial during the battles, as he supports his comrades and helps to navigate the chaos.

In this episode, Siegfried faces off against the powerful Servant, Mordred. As the battle intensifies, Siegfried's resolve is tested, and he ultimately sacrifices himself to protect his allies. His internal struggle is palpable as he grapples with his sense of duty and the weight of his past.

Jeanne d'Arc, also known as Ruler, experiences significant character development in this episode. She confronts her role as a leader and protector, feeling the burden of her responsibilities. Her determination to save others is highlighted, especially as she faces the consequences of her decisions in the heat of battle.

The Holy Grail plays a crucial role in this episode as it becomes the focal point of the conflict. The characters' motivations are deeply intertwined with their desires for the Grail, leading to intense confrontations. The Grail's power and the implications of its use are explored, raising questions about the true nature of wishes and the cost of achieving them.

In this episode, the relationship between Mordred and her master, Kayneth, is strained as their differing goals come to light. Mordred's rebellious nature clashes with Kayneth's authoritative approach, leading to tension. This dynamic is explored through their interactions, showcasing Mordred's desire for independence and Kayneth's struggle to maintain control.

Fate/Apocrypha, particularly in episode 12 titled "The Saint's Triumphant Return," contains several elements that may not be considered family-friendly. Here are some potentially objectionable or upsetting aspects:

1. Violence and Combat: The episode features intense battles with graphic depictions of violence, including characters being injured or killed. The action sequences can be quite brutal and may be distressing for younger viewers.

2. Death and Loss: Themes of death and the emotional impact of losing loved ones are prevalent, which can be heavy for sensitive audiences.

3. Dark Themes: The narrative explores darker themes such as betrayal, sacrifice, and the moral complexities of war, which may be difficult for children to fully understand or process.

4. Supernatural Elements: The presence of supernatural beings and the concept of summoning heroic spirits may be unsettling for some viewers, particularly younger children.

5. Emotional Turmoil: Characters experience significant emotional struggles, including despair and conflict, which may resonate deeply and evoke strong feelings.

These elements contribute to a tone that may not be suitable for all audiences, particularly children or those sensitive to violence and dark themes.