Due to unexpected event, probably interference with Akasha (Akasha knows how) when Heaven's Feel was performed, Emilya's UBW( as in 'her own mini-dimension'. Like the woman that gave Lancer his Gae Bolg ended in ) was materiazed outside the normal flow of space and time and after her time on Earth ended, she appeared there, immortal and alone in this 'special room' connected to the Throne of Heroes.
But when Ilyasviel von Einzbern wished for the strongest Heroic spirit and someone she could call a friend, not a mere spirit copy of Emilya was summoned, but she managed to bend the bonds that tied her to her world and walk the world once again, at least until her existence on the Earth ended.
She decided to fight with all her heart because if she lost, she would be returned to her realm again and imprisoned there for God knows how long. -.-
Hm. I think I know how to make this idea about Emilya's past probable. I'll say Shiki did it! As I remember she had a link to Akasha and since Emilya lived with Toko, she could grant a wish to Sakura, like 'a world where Emilya won't have to experience death again.'
Otherwise, no progress was made with the story. This is sure depressing


