This disagreement leads Archer to literally stab Shirou in the back, attempting to kill him to eliminate what he views as a dangerous, naive ideology. Key Servant Encounters
Despite his duty, Assassin allows Saber to escape with a wounded Shirou because he is moved by her compassion and desires a more "honorable" future duel. Character & Lore Developments
Realizing his current weakness after the encounter with Archer, Shirou finally asks Saber to train him in swordsmanship so he can defend his own ideals. Fate Stay Night Episode 7
While Archer fights Caster, Saber faces Assassin at the temple gates. She is nearly killed by his secret technique, Tsubame Gaeshi (Swallow Reversal)—an incredible skill that strikes from three dimensions simultaneously through pure martial mastery rather than magical power.
He believes a hero must save everyone and refuses to align with Caster because she uses innocent people as mana sources. This disagreement leads Archer to literally stab Shirou
Fate/stay night [Unlimited Blade Works] Episode 7 Discussion
It is revealed that Caster has broken the standard rules of the Holy Grail War by summoning her own Servant, Assassin , to guard the Ryuudou Temple. While Archer fights Caster, Saber faces Assassin at
The episode heavily hints at a deeper connection between Archer and Shirou. Viewers note similarities in their dialogue, body shape, and Archer's "pure" sword technique, which Saber notes is remarkably familiar.