Nasuverse Holding Back the Sea
- Thread starter Ryuugi
- Start date
In the middle of that raging storm, the brilliance of that golden sword shone though. The bounded field of that holy swordÆs sheath unraveled, releasing the tightly held air within, letting it bellow forth like a dragonÆs mighty roar.
Strike Air was not an independent weapon, but rather another way to use the Noble Phantasm Invisible AirùitÆs certain-kill technique. Earlier, in the battle with Berserker, sheÆd used a version of it, making use to the extreme air pressure to accelerate in important moments. Butàif it was released towards the enemy, it would become a crushing gale that could blow away armies and wipe away her enemies. Hence itÆs titleùthe æHammer of the Wind King.Æ
Packed together thoughtlessly as they were, the demonic horde took the blow all the harder. The tempest, compacted such that it was like a solid force, smashed the demonic monsters to pieces, riddling the mixed flesh with flung pieces of gravel and twisted, shattered wood. It was like a fist of a giant had smashed into them, opening up a path of broken corpses.
The instant they were blow apart, a perfect hole opened through their ranks, but by the time the destructive wind reached Caster, it had been countered by the many layers of bodies between him and Saber. In the end, the just that reached Caster was little more than a calm summer breeze.
And yet, while a gap that size could easily serve as a path straight to Caster, but with the sheer density and rate of growth of the monsters that had been summoned, it would close up in an instant.
ôùWhat!?ö
Even so, CasterÆs couldnÆt hide his shock, because it had not just been wind that had penetrated his armyÆs ranks.
If an object moves extremely quickly through the atmosphere, they can tear through the air in such a way as to leave a vacuum behind. Of course, being a vacuum, it would quickly draw in the surrounding air, creating a wake moving at a velocity comparable to the original object, becoming a surge that follows behind it. Using this, a race car can accelerate by following closely behind another car.
The phenomenon caused by Strike Air was similar; at the same it destroyed the army, it left a vacuum behind the raging gale, preparing a point of inrushing air.
And, the one who had waited for this attack and asked for it, Lancer was, of course, also the one to fearlessly rush into the converging surge without even a glimmer of hesitation.
To perform such a technique so perfectly required not only superhuman skill, but a flawless synchronization with oneÆs partner. And yet, having simply seen Invisible Air preformed before at a distance, Lancer was able to achieve that skill with ease. With a single leap, Lancer had passed into that æpassageÆ even as it was swirling with blood and torn flesh. When his feet once again touched the earth, he was barely more than ten steps away from Caster with nothing standing between them.
ôùI have you now, Caster!ö The fastest of the Knight Classes exclaimed.
The demonic creatures reacted instantly to their masterÆs crisis, turning, extending their creeping, grasping tentacles towards LancerÆs backùand yet, the reborn hero did not turn around or even hesitate.
Instead, he brandished his short yellow spear behind his back, twirling it like a windmill and cutting down all their attacks. At the same time, he turned the other half of his body, thrusting forward his long red spear.
ùHe was just short of a lethal blow. The spearÆs thrust only left the tip sinking slightly into the surface the skin. It didnÆt even make a serious gash.
And yetà
The weapon in the spearmanÆs hands was one that could decide victory with but the slightest touch.
ôGouge, Gae Dearg!ö
The tip of the spear had not touched CasterÆs body, but the book he held within his hands.
Gae Dearg was a æNoble Phantasm Killer,Æ capable of severing all ties of prana. Against Caster, who completely relied upon the mighty power of his book in battle, even a slight touch was equivalent to a checkmate.
A sound akin to a wave breaking against the shore echoed through the forest as the countless monsters liquefied in the blink of an eye. Originally created out of flesh and blood, they returned to those things the moment the connection that supplied prana to them was terminated.
Caster immediately scurried away, and the moment the book was no longer in contact with LancerÆs spear, its ability as a prana furnace immediately reactivated and it began healing itself. The prana had only been cut off during that brief contact; Gae Dearg did not have the power to permanently damage a Noble Phantasm.
ùHoweveràonce canceled, that magecraft could not be salvaged. Even though he could repeat the summoning spell that Holy Sword and those Twin Spears would cut him down before the words could even finish falling from his mouth.
Though it was not as if either was inclined to give mercy in the first place.
ôàYou better prepare yourself, Heretic.ö Saber said, blade in her hands.
Until the very end, her eyes were only focused on ævictory.Æ
Strike Air was not an independent weapon, but rather another way to use the Noble Phantasm Invisible AirùitÆs certain-kill technique. Earlier, in the battle with Berserker, sheÆd used a version of it, making use to the extreme air pressure to accelerate in important moments. Butàif it was released towards the enemy, it would become a crushing gale that could blow away armies and wipe away her enemies. Hence itÆs titleùthe æHammer of the Wind King.Æ
Packed together thoughtlessly as they were, the demonic horde took the blow all the harder. The tempest, compacted such that it was like a solid force, smashed the demonic monsters to pieces, riddling the mixed flesh with flung pieces of gravel and twisted, shattered wood. It was like a fist of a giant had smashed into them, opening up a path of broken corpses.
The instant they were blow apart, a perfect hole opened through their ranks, but by the time the destructive wind reached Caster, it had been countered by the many layers of bodies between him and Saber. In the end, the just that reached Caster was little more than a calm summer breeze.
And yet, while a gap that size could easily serve as a path straight to Caster, but with the sheer density and rate of growth of the monsters that had been summoned, it would close up in an instant.
ôùWhat!?ö
Even so, CasterÆs couldnÆt hide his shock, because it had not just been wind that had penetrated his armyÆs ranks.
If an object moves extremely quickly through the atmosphere, they can tear through the air in such a way as to leave a vacuum behind. Of course, being a vacuum, it would quickly draw in the surrounding air, creating a wake moving at a velocity comparable to the original object, becoming a surge that follows behind it. Using this, a race car can accelerate by following closely behind another car.
The phenomenon caused by Strike Air was similar; at the same it destroyed the army, it left a vacuum behind the raging gale, preparing a point of inrushing air.
And, the one who had waited for this attack and asked for it, Lancer was, of course, also the one to fearlessly rush into the converging surge without even a glimmer of hesitation.
To perform such a technique so perfectly required not only superhuman skill, but a flawless synchronization with oneÆs partner. And yet, having simply seen Invisible Air preformed before at a distance, Lancer was able to achieve that skill with ease. With a single leap, Lancer had passed into that æpassageÆ even as it was swirling with blood and torn flesh. When his feet once again touched the earth, he was barely more than ten steps away from Caster with nothing standing between them.
ôùI have you now, Caster!ö The fastest of the Knight Classes exclaimed.
The demonic creatures reacted instantly to their masterÆs crisis, turning, extending their creeping, grasping tentacles towards LancerÆs backùand yet, the reborn hero did not turn around or even hesitate.
Instead, he brandished his short yellow spear behind his back, twirling it like a windmill and cutting down all their attacks. At the same time, he turned the other half of his body, thrusting forward his long red spear.
ùHe was just short of a lethal blow. The spearÆs thrust only left the tip sinking slightly into the surface the skin. It didnÆt even make a serious gash.
And yetà
The weapon in the spearmanÆs hands was one that could decide victory with but the slightest touch.
ôGouge, Gae Dearg!ö
The tip of the spear had not touched CasterÆs body, but the book he held within his hands.
Gae Dearg was a æNoble Phantasm Killer,Æ capable of severing all ties of prana. Against Caster, who completely relied upon the mighty power of his book in battle, even a slight touch was equivalent to a checkmate.
A sound akin to a wave breaking against the shore echoed through the forest as the countless monsters liquefied in the blink of an eye. Originally created out of flesh and blood, they returned to those things the moment the connection that supplied prana to them was terminated.
Caster immediately scurried away, and the moment the book was no longer in contact with LancerÆs spear, its ability as a prana furnace immediately reactivated and it began healing itself. The prana had only been cut off during that brief contact; Gae Dearg did not have the power to permanently damage a Noble Phantasm.
ùHoweveràonce canceled, that magecraft could not be salvaged. Even though he could repeat the summoning spell that Holy Sword and those Twin Spears would cut him down before the words could even finish falling from his mouth.
Though it was not as if either was inclined to give mercy in the first place.
ôàYou better prepare yourself, Heretic.ö Saber said, blade in her hands.
Until the very end, her eyes were only focused on ævictory.Æ
Caster was a warped individual. He was basically incapable of understanding others, much less being understood.
But even he could understand that he was about to die.
And yetà
He also knew that if he so much as twitched, both Lancer and Saber would be on him in an instant.
It went without saying that, as a Caster, he would be torn apart in an instant by the two knights.
But he was hardly out of tricks yet.
Within CasterÆs hands, having already finished regenerating, PrelatiÆs Spellbook throbbed with prana.
ùOf course, neither Saber nor Lancer were stupid enough to let Caster use his spells again.
But at the same time, Caster wasnÆt stupid enough to try to pronounce an incantation while standing in front of their blades. He didnÆt even speak a single word of incantation, but instead released a chaotic surge of prana for the book. Although the magecraft had been canceled, the pools of blood on the ground still reacted as the prana flowed into it, but without the framework of a spell or even the controlling will of a master, it simply scattered apart without forming anything.
But even that could have its uses, in the right situations.
Before either Saber or Lancer could strike him down, they found their sight suddenly blocked and stopped immediately.
Caster hadnÆt intended to make a complete spell to begin with, but rather had intended for the spell to fail. The blood could not form any summoned monsters, so instead it boiled and evaporated due to the amount of prana that had been injected into it and spread out in all directions like a fog. It was a wasteful, imprudent skill that could only be used with the enormous prana provided with that Noble Phantasm.
Caster, even though he was normally overwhelmed with confidence, had deduced that it would be impossible to turn this situation around. In the moments that the bloody mist covered his opponentÆs sight, he quickly dematerialized and began to flee without even a parting word.
Luckily for Caster, Saber, who could not dematerialize, and Lancer, whose Master was still in a predicament and possibly being hunted by SaberÆs, could not give pursuit.
ôBastardàwhat cowardice.ö Saber muttered darkly, releasing Invisible air to blow away the mist, and then reforming it, concealing her blade once more. By the time she had, even CasterÆs spiritual presence had vanished.
For a moment, Saber stared silently into the distance, before glancing at Lancer, whoÆd made no move to attack her.
ôLancer, you should hurry. Go save your lord.ö
For a moment, the spearman was surprised, but then bowed his head in thanks. For Saber, making that decision was the same as going against her lordàbut she had compromised her honor enough for him. Retaining Lancer here so that his Master could be killed was the logical choice, butà
More than a Servant, she was the King of Knights.
Lancer dematerialized and Saber was left alone on the battlefield.
For a moment, that brought back memories sheÆd rather forget. Shaking them away, she began to head back towards Irisviel.
XxXXxX
Beneath the surface of the sea, Berserker opened his eyes.
He must have fallen asleep.
Regardless, his prana was fully restored; there should be no problem returning to his Master. Since he could still feel his connection to Kariya, he knew his Master was still alive.
As a spirit, he rose seamlessly from the waters and began to head back towards his master.
àEven so, he could not help but wonder at his dream. He was used to strange dreamsùjust as he was used to them turning out to be more than dreams.
But he could make no sense of the one heÆd just had.
For in his sleep, heÆd dreamt of a strange and twisted city, having sunk far beneath the waves.
But even he could understand that he was about to die.
And yetà
He also knew that if he so much as twitched, both Lancer and Saber would be on him in an instant.
It went without saying that, as a Caster, he would be torn apart in an instant by the two knights.
But he was hardly out of tricks yet.
Within CasterÆs hands, having already finished regenerating, PrelatiÆs Spellbook throbbed with prana.
ùOf course, neither Saber nor Lancer were stupid enough to let Caster use his spells again.
But at the same time, Caster wasnÆt stupid enough to try to pronounce an incantation while standing in front of their blades. He didnÆt even speak a single word of incantation, but instead released a chaotic surge of prana for the book. Although the magecraft had been canceled, the pools of blood on the ground still reacted as the prana flowed into it, but without the framework of a spell or even the controlling will of a master, it simply scattered apart without forming anything.
But even that could have its uses, in the right situations.
Before either Saber or Lancer could strike him down, they found their sight suddenly blocked and stopped immediately.
Caster hadnÆt intended to make a complete spell to begin with, but rather had intended for the spell to fail. The blood could not form any summoned monsters, so instead it boiled and evaporated due to the amount of prana that had been injected into it and spread out in all directions like a fog. It was a wasteful, imprudent skill that could only be used with the enormous prana provided with that Noble Phantasm.
Caster, even though he was normally overwhelmed with confidence, had deduced that it would be impossible to turn this situation around. In the moments that the bloody mist covered his opponentÆs sight, he quickly dematerialized and began to flee without even a parting word.
Luckily for Caster, Saber, who could not dematerialize, and Lancer, whose Master was still in a predicament and possibly being hunted by SaberÆs, could not give pursuit.
ôBastardàwhat cowardice.ö Saber muttered darkly, releasing Invisible air to blow away the mist, and then reforming it, concealing her blade once more. By the time she had, even CasterÆs spiritual presence had vanished.
For a moment, Saber stared silently into the distance, before glancing at Lancer, whoÆd made no move to attack her.
ôLancer, you should hurry. Go save your lord.ö
For a moment, the spearman was surprised, but then bowed his head in thanks. For Saber, making that decision was the same as going against her lordàbut she had compromised her honor enough for him. Retaining Lancer here so that his Master could be killed was the logical choice, butà
More than a Servant, she was the King of Knights.
Lancer dematerialized and Saber was left alone on the battlefield.
For a moment, that brought back memories sheÆd rather forget. Shaking them away, she began to head back towards Irisviel.
XxXXxX
Beneath the surface of the sea, Berserker opened his eyes.
He must have fallen asleep.
Regardless, his prana was fully restored; there should be no problem returning to his Master. Since he could still feel his connection to Kariya, he knew his Master was still alive.
As a spirit, he rose seamlessly from the waters and began to head back towards his master.
àEven so, he could not help but wonder at his dream. He was used to strange dreamsùjust as he was used to them turning out to be more than dreams.
But he could make no sense of the one heÆd just had.
For in his sleep, heÆd dreamt of a strange and twisted city, having sunk far beneath the waves.
Specifically, the R'lyeh Text's were translated to Chinese, and the Chinese copy was translated to Italian or French (Whichever was spoken by Gilles at the time and place he was alive), and that copy of a copy was named Prelati's Spellbook.
So it's a scanlation of the R'lyeh text's that was given a dub name.
So it's a scanlation of the R'lyeh text's that was given a dub name.
Holding Back the Sea
Hassan-i-Sabah
Even as the sun began to rise, Kotomine was speaking to his Master through the magical communicator heÆd been given.
HeÆd reported in part what had happened during the night, though for reasons even he didnÆt understand, he left out the details of his own involvement and claimed he had simply witnessed the events through AssassinÆs eyes.
Of course, there were a number of things that had interested Tokiomi.
They had discovered CasterÆs true identity as the twisted magus, Gilles de Rais, which was sure to be of use, for knowing the name of the enemy was always an advantage in this war.
They had discovered the true nature of his Noble Phantasm; summoning seemingly countless monsters from another dimension via flesh and blood. It was a truly dangerous ability, even if the monsters were weak, able to hold back the other two Knight class Servants, Saber and Lancer, at the same time. Even assuming that Caster had no other abilitiesùa dangerous assumption, indeedùit was very powerful, meaning Caster should be treated with careful cautionùwhich was to say, they should keep Gilgamesh away from it.
They had discovered the truth of LancerÆs Noble Phantasmùit was able to sever prana, if only in the moments it was in contact with its target. While not something that would be as instantly lethal as a number of GilgameshÆs Noble Phantasms, it could be a very dangerous weapon, simply for its abilities as a Noble Phantasm Killer.
However, perhaps the greatest benefit of allà
ôWe can trace locate Caster any time,ö Kirei said.
In situations like this, AssassinÆs ability to use multiple bodies was proving its true worth. While his offensive ability was not the type of thing that could be considered impressive, it was a fact that his ability to move around undetected more than made up for it. Even now, he had an Assassin positioned by each and every Servant and their Master, with no one the wiser.
Including, of course, Caster.
ôAre you sure we wonÆt be noticed?ö Tokiomi asked.
ôOur opponent truly is the Heroic Spirit of a magus. Even for Assassin, it was difficult to enter his workshop undetected, but once inside, Assassin gathered a great deal of important information. We have since established a permanent watcher, who IÆm sure wonÆt be suspected or noticed. IÆve also posted an Assassin near the perimeter. Whatever Caster does, in or out of the workshop, weÆll know immediately.ö
Something about how he said that struck Tokiomi as odd.
ôAndàhas Caster left his workshop again?ö
ôYes,ö Kotomine admitted. ôBecauseàö
He hesitated. The actions of both Caster and his Master would have grave consequences; that he knew for sure.
ôBoth Caster and his Master went into the city beside Miyami town and kidnapped a number of sleeping children and took them back to their workshop.ö Kirei reported. ôBy dawn, they had captured fifteen of them. Most of the operations were carried out quietly, but the parents of three of the children discovered them and a struggle ensued. In the end, the entire family was killed.ö
Even without a word being exchanged, Kotomine could tell that Tokiomi was furious and continued promptly before he could be interrupted.
ôCaster uses magecraft without hesitation and makes no effort to clean up after himself. Under my fatherÆs orders, workers from the Church are cleaning up as we speak, butàI do not believe that CasterÆs actions will change in any way. If anything, after his defeat today, it is likely to increase.ö
ôùWhat on earth are they thinking? What kind of person is CasterÆs Master?ö
ôAccording to Caster, who eavesdropped of their conversation, before summoning Caster, that Master had already been carrying out similar murders. Though we canÆt be sure yet, this guy is apparently the serial killer that has become wanted recently.ö
TokiomiÆs breath escaped in an angry hiss.
News had been circulating about the æDemon of Fuyuki City.Æ Using brutally savage methods, he had been related to at least four murders, including killing an entire family in their sleep. The police had already gathered a special task force, enlisting aid from neighboring cities, in the hopes of cracking the case quickly. Even so, there had been little progress.
For Tokiomi and, indeed, all members of the Holy War, having such a thing occur was a headache. The Holy War was something that had to be carried out in secretùsomeone who drew attention would not be welcomed.
Actually, this was a truth all magi were held too. Nobody would expose magecraftùas long as it was related to the secrecy of magic, the MageÆs Association was firm and through in managing it. Anyone who risked it would be put to death.
It was a matter that always made magiÆs blood run cold.
So this situation was dangerously alarming. A serial killer allied to Gilles de Raisàthat man was famous for his actions, but he was hardly the type one would normally expect to become a Heroic Spirit. It would be more fitting to call him a ævengeful spirit.Æ
ôWhat else did you learn?ö
ôThe MasterÆs name is æRyuunosuke.Æ From their conversations, he has no prior knowledge of the Holy War. Further, he does not even seem to know what it means to be a magus.ö
ôThat is quite possible; if the Grail cannot find seven magi that fit its criteria, itÆs possible for someone untaught to be chosen.ö
But even soàwhile Servants attacking human beings isnÆt something abnormalùas spiritual beings who feed on prana to exist, Servants werenÆt just limited to acquiring it from their Masters; they could also absorb the spirits of human beings. MasterÆs unable to provide their Servants with sufficient prana could use sacrifices to make up for it. As long as it was covertly done, silent approval was given.
But reckless murders like this would create a commotionùsuch a thing would never be allowed.
ôYou cannot allow this matter to run wild, can you, Tokiomi?ö Father Risei cut in suddenly, looking displeased. ôCaster and his MasterÆs actions have clearly obstructed the progress of the Holy Warùthis is against the rules.ö
ôOf course. As was entrusted to be guardian of this land by the MageÆs Associate; I will not let them off.ö
ôIÆm afraid they have also probably been behind the other report disappearances of children.ö Kirei continued to report drily. ôIf we take into account last nightÆs activities, the number of children missing is over thirty, which would imply their killings have indeed been escalating. Father, we have to stop them as soon as possible.ö
ôYesùwe are already past the point of punishments and warnings. The only course left is to destroy Caster quickly.ö
ôBut the problem is, to defeat a Servant, we must rely on another Servant, but my Assassin cannot take action in this regard.ö
Risei contemplated that is silence, for a moment, before making a suggestion.
ôAs the supervisor, it is within my jurisdiction to alter the rules slightly. What if we put aside the struggle for the Holy Grail for now? We can muster all of the MasterÆs and then move against Caster.ö
ôWhat do you have in mind, Father?ö
ôI can provide aid that would benefit those that assist in destroying Caster. Having the HeavenÆs Feel disrupted is something I doubt the other Masters would want, either.ö
ôàOh, I see. Change the objective of the Masters to hunting, is that it? Butàawarding benefits to the ones that defeat CasteràcouldnÆt that backfire in the end?ö
ôOf course, it is not good for someone else to win this ægame.Æ So, the one to defeat Caster in the end should definitely be Archer.ö
ôàI see. ThatÆs obvious.ö
With Assassin keeping track of Caster, arranging things should be all too easy.
ôThen I shall quickly prepare to gather the other Masters.ö Risei said, taking his leave.
XxXXxX
Hassan-i-Sabah
Even as the sun began to rise, Kotomine was speaking to his Master through the magical communicator heÆd been given.
HeÆd reported in part what had happened during the night, though for reasons even he didnÆt understand, he left out the details of his own involvement and claimed he had simply witnessed the events through AssassinÆs eyes.
Of course, there were a number of things that had interested Tokiomi.
They had discovered CasterÆs true identity as the twisted magus, Gilles de Rais, which was sure to be of use, for knowing the name of the enemy was always an advantage in this war.
They had discovered the true nature of his Noble Phantasm; summoning seemingly countless monsters from another dimension via flesh and blood. It was a truly dangerous ability, even if the monsters were weak, able to hold back the other two Knight class Servants, Saber and Lancer, at the same time. Even assuming that Caster had no other abilitiesùa dangerous assumption, indeedùit was very powerful, meaning Caster should be treated with careful cautionùwhich was to say, they should keep Gilgamesh away from it.
They had discovered the truth of LancerÆs Noble Phantasmùit was able to sever prana, if only in the moments it was in contact with its target. While not something that would be as instantly lethal as a number of GilgameshÆs Noble Phantasms, it could be a very dangerous weapon, simply for its abilities as a Noble Phantasm Killer.
However, perhaps the greatest benefit of allà
ôWe can trace locate Caster any time,ö Kirei said.
In situations like this, AssassinÆs ability to use multiple bodies was proving its true worth. While his offensive ability was not the type of thing that could be considered impressive, it was a fact that his ability to move around undetected more than made up for it. Even now, he had an Assassin positioned by each and every Servant and their Master, with no one the wiser.
Including, of course, Caster.
ôAre you sure we wonÆt be noticed?ö Tokiomi asked.
ôOur opponent truly is the Heroic Spirit of a magus. Even for Assassin, it was difficult to enter his workshop undetected, but once inside, Assassin gathered a great deal of important information. We have since established a permanent watcher, who IÆm sure wonÆt be suspected or noticed. IÆve also posted an Assassin near the perimeter. Whatever Caster does, in or out of the workshop, weÆll know immediately.ö
Something about how he said that struck Tokiomi as odd.
ôAndàhas Caster left his workshop again?ö
ôYes,ö Kotomine admitted. ôBecauseàö
He hesitated. The actions of both Caster and his Master would have grave consequences; that he knew for sure.
ôBoth Caster and his Master went into the city beside Miyami town and kidnapped a number of sleeping children and took them back to their workshop.ö Kirei reported. ôBy dawn, they had captured fifteen of them. Most of the operations were carried out quietly, but the parents of three of the children discovered them and a struggle ensued. In the end, the entire family was killed.ö
Even without a word being exchanged, Kotomine could tell that Tokiomi was furious and continued promptly before he could be interrupted.
ôCaster uses magecraft without hesitation and makes no effort to clean up after himself. Under my fatherÆs orders, workers from the Church are cleaning up as we speak, butàI do not believe that CasterÆs actions will change in any way. If anything, after his defeat today, it is likely to increase.ö
ôùWhat on earth are they thinking? What kind of person is CasterÆs Master?ö
ôAccording to Caster, who eavesdropped of their conversation, before summoning Caster, that Master had already been carrying out similar murders. Though we canÆt be sure yet, this guy is apparently the serial killer that has become wanted recently.ö
TokiomiÆs breath escaped in an angry hiss.
News had been circulating about the æDemon of Fuyuki City.Æ Using brutally savage methods, he had been related to at least four murders, including killing an entire family in their sleep. The police had already gathered a special task force, enlisting aid from neighboring cities, in the hopes of cracking the case quickly. Even so, there had been little progress.
For Tokiomi and, indeed, all members of the Holy War, having such a thing occur was a headache. The Holy War was something that had to be carried out in secretùsomeone who drew attention would not be welcomed.
Actually, this was a truth all magi were held too. Nobody would expose magecraftùas long as it was related to the secrecy of magic, the MageÆs Association was firm and through in managing it. Anyone who risked it would be put to death.
It was a matter that always made magiÆs blood run cold.
So this situation was dangerously alarming. A serial killer allied to Gilles de Raisàthat man was famous for his actions, but he was hardly the type one would normally expect to become a Heroic Spirit. It would be more fitting to call him a ævengeful spirit.Æ
ôWhat else did you learn?ö
ôThe MasterÆs name is æRyuunosuke.Æ From their conversations, he has no prior knowledge of the Holy War. Further, he does not even seem to know what it means to be a magus.ö
ôThat is quite possible; if the Grail cannot find seven magi that fit its criteria, itÆs possible for someone untaught to be chosen.ö
But even soàwhile Servants attacking human beings isnÆt something abnormalùas spiritual beings who feed on prana to exist, Servants werenÆt just limited to acquiring it from their Masters; they could also absorb the spirits of human beings. MasterÆs unable to provide their Servants with sufficient prana could use sacrifices to make up for it. As long as it was covertly done, silent approval was given.
But reckless murders like this would create a commotionùsuch a thing would never be allowed.
ôYou cannot allow this matter to run wild, can you, Tokiomi?ö Father Risei cut in suddenly, looking displeased. ôCaster and his MasterÆs actions have clearly obstructed the progress of the Holy Warùthis is against the rules.ö
ôOf course. As was entrusted to be guardian of this land by the MageÆs Associate; I will not let them off.ö
ôIÆm afraid they have also probably been behind the other report disappearances of children.ö Kirei continued to report drily. ôIf we take into account last nightÆs activities, the number of children missing is over thirty, which would imply their killings have indeed been escalating. Father, we have to stop them as soon as possible.ö
ôYesùwe are already past the point of punishments and warnings. The only course left is to destroy Caster quickly.ö
ôBut the problem is, to defeat a Servant, we must rely on another Servant, but my Assassin cannot take action in this regard.ö
Risei contemplated that is silence, for a moment, before making a suggestion.
ôAs the supervisor, it is within my jurisdiction to alter the rules slightly. What if we put aside the struggle for the Holy Grail for now? We can muster all of the MasterÆs and then move against Caster.ö
ôWhat do you have in mind, Father?ö
ôI can provide aid that would benefit those that assist in destroying Caster. Having the HeavenÆs Feel disrupted is something I doubt the other Masters would want, either.ö
ôàOh, I see. Change the objective of the Masters to hunting, is that it? Butàawarding benefits to the ones that defeat CasteràcouldnÆt that backfire in the end?ö
ôOf course, it is not good for someone else to win this ægame.Æ So, the one to defeat Caster in the end should definitely be Archer.ö
ôàI see. ThatÆs obvious.ö
With Assassin keeping track of Caster, arranging things should be all too easy.
ôThen I shall quickly prepare to gather the other Masters.ö Risei said, taking his leave.
XxXXxX
XxXXxX
As soon as Kotomine entered his room, he sensed that something had changed. It was not a change of scent or temperature and there were no changes to the settings or lightings of the room, but for some reason, the feeling of the room had changed. It seemed more luxurious, somehow, as if he were entering a palace.
Perhaps it was due to the presence of that man.
Though it seemed impossible that GilgameshÆs mere presence could do that much.
ôàArcher?ö Kirei asked, for the ServantÆs appearance surprised him.
With his upright golden hair and his red eyes, the Servant was unmistakableùeven if he had traded his golden armor for a furred leather jacket and fashionable leather pants.
Since he had been summoned, Archer had been moving around carelessly with his ability of Independent Action. But, having gotten tired of ghosting through the city in his spiritual form, Archer had decided to dress in modern attire on a whim so he could materialize and take strolls through the streets.
ûEven having heard of GilgameshÆs idiotic deeds from Tokiomi, Kirei had never imagined that he would appear like this in his room.
But Archer did not appear ashamed in the least, despite having appeared in another manÆs room without invitation. Further, he had gone so far as to even remove an expensive bottle of red wine and had poured himself a cup.
ôEven if theyÆre few in number, compared to TokiomiÆs collection, yours is of higher quality. IsnÆt that a bit presumptuous for an apprentice?ö
ôààö
Ignoring the jab, Kirei looked at the row of empty wine bottles on the table.
Apparently, Archer had helped himself to KireiÆs hidden collection.
Though initially surprising, if one thought about it, they would find nothing strange. Wine can fill the empty heart with its tasteùor rather, if one feels hollow inside, getting drunk is nothing unusual. For a man who had lost his wife, it shouldnÆt be surprising. Whenever Kirei heard of wine of extraordinary quality, he would purchase it immediately.
ùThough, Kirei had never tasted wine even once. He simply increased the size of his collection. He never served it too his guestsùso for a drunkard who casually drank his hidden wine, even if he praised it, Kirei felt no happiness at seeing Archer.
ôWhat do you want?ö He asked bluntly.
Facing that blunt question, Archer lifted his glass with a smug, knowing smirk, amusement glimmering in ruby eyes.
ôIt seems IÆm not the only one who has gotten bored.ö
ôBored?ö Kirei asked, though upon hearing ArcherÆs reply, he realized the meaning instantly.
Though Kirei wasnÆt sure how he knew about it, apparently Archer was aware of what had happened last nightùof how he had disobeyed TokiomiÆs orders to stay put.
ôWhatÆs the matter, Kirei? Are you unsatisfied just obeying your masterÆs orders?ö
ôàAnd are you displeased with your contract even now, Gilgamesh?ö Kirei asked in a displeased tone, evading the question.
Even if he is the mythical King of Heroes, Kirei didnÆt see him as someone to be feared. He was TokiomiÆs Servant and he was his Apprenticeùso their ranks were about the same. SO there should be no need to worry about being impolite.
Archer didnÆt seem to mind his attitude, merely snorting and taking another sip of his wine.
ôThe one who summoned me here and provided me with prana is Tokiomiàbut frankly speaking, he really is a boring man. I canÆt find anything interesting about him at all.ö
ôàIs that really the way a Servant should speak of his Master? Are they really that boring? TokiomiÆs ordersàö
ôTheyÆre completely meaningless. Reaching æAkashaÆàwhat a pointless wish.ö
What every mage yearned for, Archer laughed off just like that. But Kirei could empathize with him.
ôThe desire to reach the æRootÆ is something every magus hasùitÆs not something bystanders would understand.ö
ôThen I suppose youÆre one of those bystanders, too, Kirei. Before now, you were a person who opposed the magi, right?ö
Although Archer was very haughty, his ability to gather information seemed quite large.
Unnervingly so.
ôàThe path leading to the æRootÆ leads æoutsideÆ this world. That is to say, it will not have any effect on the æinside.Æ For the Church, which only cares about the æinside,Æ the pursuit of the outside is pointless. To use, it is just a meaningless plan.ö
ôOh, I see. I too care only about the world that belongs to meùI care nothing for territories I cannot control. ThatÆs why I donÆt care about the æRootÆ at all.ö
Speaking as if he owned the worldà
ôIf the Holy Grail of Fuyuki was only a device which led æoutside,Æ the Church would probably ignore it, no matter how violently the magi fought for it. Unfortunately, its ability to realize wishes can even affect the æinsideÆùleft ignored, it could become a very dangerous existence. For this reason, the Church chose Tokiomi; it would be better if the Grails power was wasted on the æboring, meaningless wishÆàbut I feel my father has other purposes in mind.ö
ôIn other words, there are Masters who fight for other reasons than Tokiomi?ö
ôWhile Tokiomi is a magus, he is one of the most right-winged; few others pursue magecraft as purely as he in this era. The others fight for worldly thingsùpossessions, power, prestige, and their dreams.ö
ôIsnÆt that lovely, though? Those are my favorite things.ö Gilgamesh laughed. ôBut what about you, Kirei? What wish do you want to fulfill by obtaining the Holy Grail?ö
Indeed. It was the most basic of questions. Why did the Holy Grail carve these seals on the back of his hand?
ôIàI do not have any particular wish.ö
ôOh? I had thought only those with wishes were chosen by the Holy Grail.ö
ôThatÆs the way it should work.ö Kirei admitted. ôSoàeven I do not understand. Someone like me, without ideals to accomplish or cravings to fillàwhy was I Chosen?ö
Archer laughed loudly, as if mocking what had trouble Kirei for so long.
ôIs it really something to worry about? If you have neither desires nor ideals, wouldnÆt simply seeking pleasure be enough?ö
KireiÆs outraged response was immediate.
ôHow dare youùyou want me, a disciple of God, to pursue pleasure? How can I commit such a sinful act!?ö
ôSinful? ThatÆs quite a leap of logic, Kotomine. Why do you connect pleasure and sin? Acquiring pleasure through sin is wrong, butàobtaining happiness through virtuous acts can hardly been seen as wrong. To say that pleasure itself is sinfulàsuch a thing makes no sense, Kotomine.ö
Before the KingÆs response, Kirei struggled to reply.
ôàWhat pleasure? I have never felt such a thing; that is why I do not seek it.ö He said, unsure and hesitating.
Archer contemplated him for a long moment before laughing.
ôKotomine Kirei, I have developed a new found interest in you.ö
ôàWhat does that mean?ö
Gilgamesh ignored his question.
ôListenùthis is wisdom obtained by a king who experienced every pleasure in the world. Happiness is a fundamental part of being Human. It is not a question of æhaveÆ and æhave notÆùit is definitely there. The only question is whether or not youÆre aware of it. In this War, strive to experience happiness.ö
ôA Servant trying to educate meà?ö Kirei muttered.
Archer probably heard him, but ignored his words.
ôKirei, first of all, you must understand this thing called æentertainment.Æ Hmàah! To start, I will let you experience my entertainment. How does that sound?ö
ôàFor someone a busy as me, there is no time for entertainment.ö
ôAfter completing TokiomiÆs tasks, youÆll have lots of time, right? You duty is to dispatch spies to monitor the other MasterÆs, isnÆt it?ö
ôàThat is correct.ö
ôIn that case, you shouldnÆt merely monitor their movements and battle tactics. How about learning their reasons for fighting in this Holy Grail War and telling me, hm? That shouldnÆt be too hard for you.ö
Indeed. With AssassinÆs skill at gathering information, recording conversations wouldnÆt be too difficult. By analyzing what they said, discerning their motivation for fighting should be simple. All he had to do was ask Assassinto pay a bitmore attention to their conversations.
Butà
ôWhy do you want to know such things, Archer?ö He asked.
ôAmong those who fight for the Holy Grail, there should be one or two interesting people, right? At least a few should be more interesting than Tokiomi.ö
ôàOkay, Archer. I promise you. But this will take some time.ö
ôNo problem. I can be patient when I wish to be. In the meantime, shall we go watch?ö
ôàWatch?ö
ôThe Masters and Servants are being summoned, right? It will be amusing to see what happens.ö
ôIt is unlikely that anyone will show themselves. Suspecting a trap, they will likely observe from a distance through Familiars.ö
ôAh, but thatÆs why I might take some interest in those that decide to show up anyway.ö
ôWhat do you mean, Archer?ö
The King of Heroes narrowed his eyes, even as they glimmered in amusement.
ôHavenÆt your spies told you anything of BerserkerÆs Master?ö
ôàMatou KariyaÆs location is unknown at this time, Archer.ö
ôAnd yet, heÆs left his Servant alone in his house. WouldnÆt it be safer to keep oneÆs Servant by your side? By now, anyone interested in Berserker has probably realized his MasterÆs absence. Its value as a trap has already vanished; it would be wiser to keep Berserker by his sideàif he was actually here.ö
ôWhat?ö
ôRather than missing, perhaps his Master is simply gone. He left the city and the dangers it presented entirely, relying completely on Berserker.ö Archer suggested.
ôSuch foolishnessàlowering his odds in such a way for his own safety.ö
ôFoolish? Hmph. I believe the word youÆre looking for is Faith. BerserkerÆs master completely believes that his Servant will bring him victory. And is it truly foolish to leave? Rather than a foolish Master who thinks he knows how to battle greater than a hero whoÆs fought countless battles, I think one whoÆs intelligent enough to stay out of the way is the one who deserves to be called æwise.Æö
ôThenàKariya has left the war completely? Which would meanàhis only weapon is Berserker.ö
ôYes. In all likelihood, he has withdrawn even his Familiars, less they be traced back to him. Which means that if Berserker wishes to know why the Church has summoned him, he will have to come in person.ö
ôAnd you think he will, Archer?ö
ôOf course,ö Gilgamesh said with complete certainty. ôThat dog had no fear in his, even when facing four Heroes. Even if it was broadcasted as a trap, he would likely still come. He has completely faith in his own poweràif nothing else I will acknowledge him for composing himself as befits a Demigod.ö
ôA Demigod?ö
It wouldnÆt be surprising. If true, it would support his conclusions about him being Achilles. Butà
ôAre you sure?ö Kirei pressed.
ôCompletely.ö Archer said, before smiling at him. ôFeel free to come in person or watch from a distance. It makes no difference to me. I will amuse myself, either way.ö
ôAmuseàö KireiÆs eyes widened. ôThen, you are going to attend as well!?ö
But he received no reply, for Archer had already faded with a final laugh.
XxXXxX
As soon as Kotomine entered his room, he sensed that something had changed. It was not a change of scent or temperature and there were no changes to the settings or lightings of the room, but for some reason, the feeling of the room had changed. It seemed more luxurious, somehow, as if he were entering a palace.
Perhaps it was due to the presence of that man.
Though it seemed impossible that GilgameshÆs mere presence could do that much.
ôàArcher?ö Kirei asked, for the ServantÆs appearance surprised him.
With his upright golden hair and his red eyes, the Servant was unmistakableùeven if he had traded his golden armor for a furred leather jacket and fashionable leather pants.
Since he had been summoned, Archer had been moving around carelessly with his ability of Independent Action. But, having gotten tired of ghosting through the city in his spiritual form, Archer had decided to dress in modern attire on a whim so he could materialize and take strolls through the streets.
ûEven having heard of GilgameshÆs idiotic deeds from Tokiomi, Kirei had never imagined that he would appear like this in his room.
But Archer did not appear ashamed in the least, despite having appeared in another manÆs room without invitation. Further, he had gone so far as to even remove an expensive bottle of red wine and had poured himself a cup.
ôEven if theyÆre few in number, compared to TokiomiÆs collection, yours is of higher quality. IsnÆt that a bit presumptuous for an apprentice?ö
ôààö
Ignoring the jab, Kirei looked at the row of empty wine bottles on the table.
Apparently, Archer had helped himself to KireiÆs hidden collection.
Though initially surprising, if one thought about it, they would find nothing strange. Wine can fill the empty heart with its tasteùor rather, if one feels hollow inside, getting drunk is nothing unusual. For a man who had lost his wife, it shouldnÆt be surprising. Whenever Kirei heard of wine of extraordinary quality, he would purchase it immediately.
ùThough, Kirei had never tasted wine even once. He simply increased the size of his collection. He never served it too his guestsùso for a drunkard who casually drank his hidden wine, even if he praised it, Kirei felt no happiness at seeing Archer.
ôWhat do you want?ö He asked bluntly.
Facing that blunt question, Archer lifted his glass with a smug, knowing smirk, amusement glimmering in ruby eyes.
ôIt seems IÆm not the only one who has gotten bored.ö
ôBored?ö Kirei asked, though upon hearing ArcherÆs reply, he realized the meaning instantly.
Though Kirei wasnÆt sure how he knew about it, apparently Archer was aware of what had happened last nightùof how he had disobeyed TokiomiÆs orders to stay put.
ôWhatÆs the matter, Kirei? Are you unsatisfied just obeying your masterÆs orders?ö
ôàAnd are you displeased with your contract even now, Gilgamesh?ö Kirei asked in a displeased tone, evading the question.
Even if he is the mythical King of Heroes, Kirei didnÆt see him as someone to be feared. He was TokiomiÆs Servant and he was his Apprenticeùso their ranks were about the same. SO there should be no need to worry about being impolite.
Archer didnÆt seem to mind his attitude, merely snorting and taking another sip of his wine.
ôThe one who summoned me here and provided me with prana is Tokiomiàbut frankly speaking, he really is a boring man. I canÆt find anything interesting about him at all.ö
ôàIs that really the way a Servant should speak of his Master? Are they really that boring? TokiomiÆs ordersàö
ôTheyÆre completely meaningless. Reaching æAkashaÆàwhat a pointless wish.ö
What every mage yearned for, Archer laughed off just like that. But Kirei could empathize with him.
ôThe desire to reach the æRootÆ is something every magus hasùitÆs not something bystanders would understand.ö
ôThen I suppose youÆre one of those bystanders, too, Kirei. Before now, you were a person who opposed the magi, right?ö
Although Archer was very haughty, his ability to gather information seemed quite large.
Unnervingly so.
ôàThe path leading to the æRootÆ leads æoutsideÆ this world. That is to say, it will not have any effect on the æinside.Æ For the Church, which only cares about the æinside,Æ the pursuit of the outside is pointless. To use, it is just a meaningless plan.ö
ôOh, I see. I too care only about the world that belongs to meùI care nothing for territories I cannot control. ThatÆs why I donÆt care about the æRootÆ at all.ö
Speaking as if he owned the worldà
ôIf the Holy Grail of Fuyuki was only a device which led æoutside,Æ the Church would probably ignore it, no matter how violently the magi fought for it. Unfortunately, its ability to realize wishes can even affect the æinsideÆùleft ignored, it could become a very dangerous existence. For this reason, the Church chose Tokiomi; it would be better if the Grails power was wasted on the æboring, meaningless wishÆàbut I feel my father has other purposes in mind.ö
ôIn other words, there are Masters who fight for other reasons than Tokiomi?ö
ôWhile Tokiomi is a magus, he is one of the most right-winged; few others pursue magecraft as purely as he in this era. The others fight for worldly thingsùpossessions, power, prestige, and their dreams.ö
ôIsnÆt that lovely, though? Those are my favorite things.ö Gilgamesh laughed. ôBut what about you, Kirei? What wish do you want to fulfill by obtaining the Holy Grail?ö
Indeed. It was the most basic of questions. Why did the Holy Grail carve these seals on the back of his hand?
ôIàI do not have any particular wish.ö
ôOh? I had thought only those with wishes were chosen by the Holy Grail.ö
ôThatÆs the way it should work.ö Kirei admitted. ôSoàeven I do not understand. Someone like me, without ideals to accomplish or cravings to fillàwhy was I Chosen?ö
Archer laughed loudly, as if mocking what had trouble Kirei for so long.
ôIs it really something to worry about? If you have neither desires nor ideals, wouldnÆt simply seeking pleasure be enough?ö
KireiÆs outraged response was immediate.
ôHow dare youùyou want me, a disciple of God, to pursue pleasure? How can I commit such a sinful act!?ö
ôSinful? ThatÆs quite a leap of logic, Kotomine. Why do you connect pleasure and sin? Acquiring pleasure through sin is wrong, butàobtaining happiness through virtuous acts can hardly been seen as wrong. To say that pleasure itself is sinfulàsuch a thing makes no sense, Kotomine.ö
Before the KingÆs response, Kirei struggled to reply.
ôàWhat pleasure? I have never felt such a thing; that is why I do not seek it.ö He said, unsure and hesitating.
Archer contemplated him for a long moment before laughing.
ôKotomine Kirei, I have developed a new found interest in you.ö
ôàWhat does that mean?ö
Gilgamesh ignored his question.
ôListenùthis is wisdom obtained by a king who experienced every pleasure in the world. Happiness is a fundamental part of being Human. It is not a question of æhaveÆ and æhave notÆùit is definitely there. The only question is whether or not youÆre aware of it. In this War, strive to experience happiness.ö
ôA Servant trying to educate meà?ö Kirei muttered.
Archer probably heard him, but ignored his words.
ôKirei, first of all, you must understand this thing called æentertainment.Æ Hmàah! To start, I will let you experience my entertainment. How does that sound?ö
ôàFor someone a busy as me, there is no time for entertainment.ö
ôAfter completing TokiomiÆs tasks, youÆll have lots of time, right? You duty is to dispatch spies to monitor the other MasterÆs, isnÆt it?ö
ôàThat is correct.ö
ôIn that case, you shouldnÆt merely monitor their movements and battle tactics. How about learning their reasons for fighting in this Holy Grail War and telling me, hm? That shouldnÆt be too hard for you.ö
Indeed. With AssassinÆs skill at gathering information, recording conversations wouldnÆt be too difficult. By analyzing what they said, discerning their motivation for fighting should be simple. All he had to do was ask Assassinto pay a bitmore attention to their conversations.
Butà
ôWhy do you want to know such things, Archer?ö He asked.
ôAmong those who fight for the Holy Grail, there should be one or two interesting people, right? At least a few should be more interesting than Tokiomi.ö
ôàOkay, Archer. I promise you. But this will take some time.ö
ôNo problem. I can be patient when I wish to be. In the meantime, shall we go watch?ö
ôàWatch?ö
ôThe Masters and Servants are being summoned, right? It will be amusing to see what happens.ö
ôIt is unlikely that anyone will show themselves. Suspecting a trap, they will likely observe from a distance through Familiars.ö
ôAh, but thatÆs why I might take some interest in those that decide to show up anyway.ö
ôWhat do you mean, Archer?ö
The King of Heroes narrowed his eyes, even as they glimmered in amusement.
ôHavenÆt your spies told you anything of BerserkerÆs Master?ö
ôàMatou KariyaÆs location is unknown at this time, Archer.ö
ôAnd yet, heÆs left his Servant alone in his house. WouldnÆt it be safer to keep oneÆs Servant by your side? By now, anyone interested in Berserker has probably realized his MasterÆs absence. Its value as a trap has already vanished; it would be wiser to keep Berserker by his sideàif he was actually here.ö
ôWhat?ö
ôRather than missing, perhaps his Master is simply gone. He left the city and the dangers it presented entirely, relying completely on Berserker.ö Archer suggested.
ôSuch foolishnessàlowering his odds in such a way for his own safety.ö
ôFoolish? Hmph. I believe the word youÆre looking for is Faith. BerserkerÆs master completely believes that his Servant will bring him victory. And is it truly foolish to leave? Rather than a foolish Master who thinks he knows how to battle greater than a hero whoÆs fought countless battles, I think one whoÆs intelligent enough to stay out of the way is the one who deserves to be called æwise.Æö
ôThenàKariya has left the war completely? Which would meanàhis only weapon is Berserker.ö
ôYes. In all likelihood, he has withdrawn even his Familiars, less they be traced back to him. Which means that if Berserker wishes to know why the Church has summoned him, he will have to come in person.ö
ôAnd you think he will, Archer?ö
ôOf course,ö Gilgamesh said with complete certainty. ôThat dog had no fear in his, even when facing four Heroes. Even if it was broadcasted as a trap, he would likely still come. He has completely faith in his own poweràif nothing else I will acknowledge him for composing himself as befits a Demigod.ö
ôA Demigod?ö
It wouldnÆt be surprising. If true, it would support his conclusions about him being Achilles. Butà
ôAre you sure?ö Kirei pressed.
ôCompletely.ö Archer said, before smiling at him. ôFeel free to come in person or watch from a distance. It makes no difference to me. I will amuse myself, either way.ö
ôAmuseàö KireiÆs eyes widened. ôThen, you are going to attend as well!?ö
But he received no reply, for Archer had already faded with a final laugh.
XxXXxX
XxXXxX
ôThereÆs no need to worry, as long as we have this!ö Alexander said proudly.
ôàö
ôàö
For a moment, the two stared at each other. RiderÆs proud smile didnÆt fade in the slightest, despite his MasterÆs disbelieving expression.
ôRideràwhat is that?ö
ôEh? CanÆt you tell just by looking? Even in this era, the æIliadÆ is still famous, right?ö
HomerÆs famous poem, detailing the last of the ten year Trojan War. Certainly, it was famous, butà
ôYouÆre talking about Berserker, right? What is there to understand? His weak point is his heelàanyone whoÆs heard of his legend knows that. What else is there too knowùô
Waver was cut off as Rider abruptly flicked him in the forehead. It was a simply gesture, but when performed by someone as powerful as Rider, it was enough to make his head ring.
ôStupid! Of course not!ö Rider yelled. ôWhy would I want to kill the legendary Achilles? The soldier who defeated the mighty Hectorùa Hero of Greece and of the Holy War. Why would I ever want to waste such a great warrior?ö
ôT-thenàwhat do you want to do with him? And why do we need this book?ö
ôIf weÆre going to be successful in conquestùand in this Holy Warùthen can you not see the usefulness of an invulnerable demigod?ö Rider explained slowly. ôMaking powerful alliesùthatÆs a concept that should be easy to grasp, right?ö
Waver wanted to hold his head in his hands.
ôY-youÆre still on about thatà?ö He asked weakly. After his earlier failure at making allies, heÆd hoped Rider would have forgotten.
ôOf course! And thatÆs where the usefulness of this book really shines! This book, the Iliad, details only one year of Achilles lifeàbut it details a very specific, very important yet.ö Rider said suggestively, waiting for his Master to catch on.
WaverÆs eyes widened the moment he did.
ôIt details the last year of his lifeùthe way he was right before he died.ö
The way, he thought, he would be now. If that was the way he was when heÆd died, then heÆd be summoned that way as a Heroic Spirit.
In which case, the details in the book really would be useful. Probably not in the way Rider was thinking, but if it told them things about his personality and the types of things he cared about, that would be enough to give them advantages.
After all, while the famous Achilles Heel was undoubtedly his greatest weakness, not all weaknesses had to be quite soàphysical. After all, the heel, while dangerous, wasnÆt even truly a weaknessùrather, it was the one place that was mortal while the rest of his body was invulnerable. In battle, it would just mean he could be injured in that spot while Rider could be injured anywhere he was hit.
Maybe finding other faults in the invulnerable warrior was a good idea. If he was a drunkard, they could wait for him to give in to temptation and attack him while he was drunkà
Not that he thought Rider would actually do that, sadly.
And he wasnÆt even sure spirits could get drunk.
Still, he played along.
ôWhat do we know about him so far?ö He asked.
Rider looked at the book in his hand with a frown.
ôHeÆs a troublesome guy, let me tell you.ö Rider claimed. ôHeÆs good with his troops, that canÆt be denied. ButàheÆs got a temper on him and heÆs got his pride. When either come to head, he tends to act childish.ö
æAre you really one to talkà?Æ Waver thought.
ôBut Rideràin the battle earlier, he didnÆt seem angry or prideful.ö
Rider nodded and Waver could tell heÆd noticed that, too.
ôYeah, but he was still summoned as a Berserker. WeÆll have to assume that no oneÆs done anything to anger him, yet. But thereÆs something even more interestingàö
ôWhat?ö
ôYou probably couldnÆt tell, but in the battle, he was fighting hard, without any reservations in the slightest. There was neither annoyance nor regret in his eyesàwithout a doubt, heÆs not fighting just because his MasterÆs told him too. Whatever the reason, heÆs completely decided to fight.ö
ôThenàthe wish, perhaps?ö
ôEither that, or heÆs found a Master he considers worth serving. Either way is troublesome, but both raise the same question.ö
ôàWhat is he fighting for?ö Waver realized.
ôYes. In the beginning of the Trojan War, he joined because he wished to fight. His mother had disguised him as a girl, but Odysseus lured him out with his desire for a sword. In that regard, it could be that he simply wants to fight. Howeveràbut the time the last year of the war rolls around, he is nineteen years older. I donÆt think itÆs safe to assume heÆs enough of a child to be motivated purely by the thrill of war anymore.ö
Waver thought, trying to remember what he knew of the Iliad.
ôHe stopped fighting for a girl, right?ö
ôBecause Agamemnon foolishly took Briseis from him, yes. In that regard, his actions were motivated by love for a girl. He even referred to her as his wife and even when Agamemnon tried to return her, he was outraged by the sheer possibility that he might have slept with her. But at the same time, his pride shines through, here; even when Briseis was returned, he refused to fight, because he felt Agamemnon had not apologized.ö
ôYeah,ö Waver remembered. ôBut that all changed when his friend died.ö
ôPatroclus, yes. Naturally, pride comes a distant second after the death of a good friend. And in some stories, he was lured to his death by Polyxena, who the Trojans promised to marry to him.ö
ôAnd the War itself. He fought for Helen, didnÆt he?ö Waver asked.
ôNot quite. Listen here: æThen, with an angry look, swift-footed Achilles replied: Why, you shameless schemer, why should any Achaean leap to obey your orders to march or wage war? No quarrel with Trojan spearmen brought me here to fight: they have done me no wrong. No horse or cow of mine have they stolen, nor have my crops been ravaged in deep-soiled Phthia, nurturer of men, since the shadowy mountains and the echoing sea lie between us. No, for your pleasure, you shameless cur, we followed to try and win recompense, for you and Menelaus, from the Trojans. And you neither see nor care; and even threaten to rob me of my prize, given by the sons of Achaea, reward for which I laboured. When the Achaeans sack some rich Trojan city, itÆs not I who win the prize. My hands bear the brunt of the fiercest fight, but when the wealth is shared, yours is the greater, while I return, weary with battle, to the ships, with some small fraction for my own. So now IÆm for Phthia, since itÆs better to lead my beaked ships home than stay here dishonoured piling up wealth and goods for you.Æö
Waver frowned.
ôThenàö
ôHe did not come for Helen, but for the sake of Agamemnon and the Achaeans. And when he was dishonored despite his work, it took the interference of Athena herself to keep him from killing Agamemnon for his insult. But this is in part why heÆd interestingàand troublesome. He demands to be honored as befits his effortsùand to be honored fairly, even compared to a King. While he will fight fiercely, he will not be dishonored or disrespected, even by a King. To negotiate with a man who has learnt will the fickle words of men will be difficultàbut I am no Agamemnon.ö Rider laughed. ôI will make him my general, and he will lead my forces at my sideùI will show him that fight as fiercely as any man and honor them justly.ö
Before Waver could reply, a sound like an ear-splitting explosion rocked his world.
No, not a soundùit had directly touched his senses as a magus. In other words, it was definitely caused by magecraft.
ôWhat was that?ö Alexander, who, as a Servant, could also feel it clearly. ôIt came from the East.ö
Through the window, they could a plume of strangely glowing cloud dispersing into the air. Even though they could see the smoke clearly, it was definitely the result of magecraft and a normal person probably could see the glow or feel that ænoise.Æ
ôThat positionàthatÆs where the Fuyuki Church is, right?ö Waver said.
ôIs it something related to us?ö Alexander asked, his eyes sharp.
ôIt could beàItÆs possible weÆre being summoned. Butàdrawing attention to ourselves is probably the wrong thing to do.ö
After all, heÆd stolen the relic he used to summon Alexander. It was possible heÆd get in trouble if he made his identity knownùespecially by showing up in such a way, in front of the other Masters.
ôBut at the same time, if the Church is calling for the MasterÆs to gather, it must be important. It could mean the addition of conditions or amendments to the rules; missing it could be foolish, too.ö
ôùYour wrong about something, boy.ö Rider said, still staring towards the Church. ôShowing up is definitely the right thing to do.ö
Just like that, the issue Waver was debating over was dismissed as if it were meaningless.
ôW-What? How can you be so sure?ö He asked, surprised and confused.
ôItÆs natural, isnÆt it? ItÆs more fitting to stroll boldly in before the other MasterÆs and show them your own power, right?ö
It was only then that Waver realized his mistake.
HeÆd spoke of the meeting out loud.
ôAnd also,ö Rider continued. ôIf all the Masters are watching, now would be a good time to make an impression on Berserker.ö
ôWhy is he so important?ö Waver complained. ôAchilles or no, we know his weakness. Everyone does. SoàheÆs just another Servant. Why is he so special.ö
Rider looked at his silently, as if there was something he should have realized.
ôùIndeed, Achilles alone, while legendary and powerful, is still just another Heroic Spirit. But he is something special for one reason.ö
ôWhat?ö
ôAchilles is a warrior who served a King.ö Rider said seriously. ôIn this war, where three of the participants are Kingsàa Kingless warrior is perhaps the most dangerous opponent of all. And while he may just be another Heroic Spirit, he is both legendary and mightyùan opponent that could become truly fearsome if he entered the service of another. SoàI am definitely not the only one who will see Achilles as someone to recruit.ö
Waver swallowed as Rider continued.
ôNo matter what he or his Master wishes for, there are probably other ways of obtaining it besides the Grail. If offered the right thing, he will definitely be willing to bow before a King as he did in life. So he is definitely the most dangerous Servant, as long as the question remainsàIs there a King that has what he wants?ö
XxXXxX
ôThereÆs no need to worry, as long as we have this!ö Alexander said proudly.
ôàö
ôàö
For a moment, the two stared at each other. RiderÆs proud smile didnÆt fade in the slightest, despite his MasterÆs disbelieving expression.
ôRideràwhat is that?ö
ôEh? CanÆt you tell just by looking? Even in this era, the æIliadÆ is still famous, right?ö
HomerÆs famous poem, detailing the last of the ten year Trojan War. Certainly, it was famous, butà
ôYouÆre talking about Berserker, right? What is there to understand? His weak point is his heelàanyone whoÆs heard of his legend knows that. What else is there too knowùô
Waver was cut off as Rider abruptly flicked him in the forehead. It was a simply gesture, but when performed by someone as powerful as Rider, it was enough to make his head ring.
ôStupid! Of course not!ö Rider yelled. ôWhy would I want to kill the legendary Achilles? The soldier who defeated the mighty Hectorùa Hero of Greece and of the Holy War. Why would I ever want to waste such a great warrior?ö
ôT-thenàwhat do you want to do with him? And why do we need this book?ö
ôIf weÆre going to be successful in conquestùand in this Holy Warùthen can you not see the usefulness of an invulnerable demigod?ö Rider explained slowly. ôMaking powerful alliesùthatÆs a concept that should be easy to grasp, right?ö
Waver wanted to hold his head in his hands.
ôY-youÆre still on about thatà?ö He asked weakly. After his earlier failure at making allies, heÆd hoped Rider would have forgotten.
ôOf course! And thatÆs where the usefulness of this book really shines! This book, the Iliad, details only one year of Achilles lifeàbut it details a very specific, very important yet.ö Rider said suggestively, waiting for his Master to catch on.
WaverÆs eyes widened the moment he did.
ôIt details the last year of his lifeùthe way he was right before he died.ö
The way, he thought, he would be now. If that was the way he was when heÆd died, then heÆd be summoned that way as a Heroic Spirit.
In which case, the details in the book really would be useful. Probably not in the way Rider was thinking, but if it told them things about his personality and the types of things he cared about, that would be enough to give them advantages.
After all, while the famous Achilles Heel was undoubtedly his greatest weakness, not all weaknesses had to be quite soàphysical. After all, the heel, while dangerous, wasnÆt even truly a weaknessùrather, it was the one place that was mortal while the rest of his body was invulnerable. In battle, it would just mean he could be injured in that spot while Rider could be injured anywhere he was hit.
Maybe finding other faults in the invulnerable warrior was a good idea. If he was a drunkard, they could wait for him to give in to temptation and attack him while he was drunkà
Not that he thought Rider would actually do that, sadly.
And he wasnÆt even sure spirits could get drunk.
Still, he played along.
ôWhat do we know about him so far?ö He asked.
Rider looked at the book in his hand with a frown.
ôHeÆs a troublesome guy, let me tell you.ö Rider claimed. ôHeÆs good with his troops, that canÆt be denied. ButàheÆs got a temper on him and heÆs got his pride. When either come to head, he tends to act childish.ö
æAre you really one to talkà?Æ Waver thought.
ôBut Rideràin the battle earlier, he didnÆt seem angry or prideful.ö
Rider nodded and Waver could tell heÆd noticed that, too.
ôYeah, but he was still summoned as a Berserker. WeÆll have to assume that no oneÆs done anything to anger him, yet. But thereÆs something even more interestingàö
ôWhat?ö
ôYou probably couldnÆt tell, but in the battle, he was fighting hard, without any reservations in the slightest. There was neither annoyance nor regret in his eyesàwithout a doubt, heÆs not fighting just because his MasterÆs told him too. Whatever the reason, heÆs completely decided to fight.ö
ôThenàthe wish, perhaps?ö
ôEither that, or heÆs found a Master he considers worth serving. Either way is troublesome, but both raise the same question.ö
ôàWhat is he fighting for?ö Waver realized.
ôYes. In the beginning of the Trojan War, he joined because he wished to fight. His mother had disguised him as a girl, but Odysseus lured him out with his desire for a sword. In that regard, it could be that he simply wants to fight. Howeveràbut the time the last year of the war rolls around, he is nineteen years older. I donÆt think itÆs safe to assume heÆs enough of a child to be motivated purely by the thrill of war anymore.ö
Waver thought, trying to remember what he knew of the Iliad.
ôHe stopped fighting for a girl, right?ö
ôBecause Agamemnon foolishly took Briseis from him, yes. In that regard, his actions were motivated by love for a girl. He even referred to her as his wife and even when Agamemnon tried to return her, he was outraged by the sheer possibility that he might have slept with her. But at the same time, his pride shines through, here; even when Briseis was returned, he refused to fight, because he felt Agamemnon had not apologized.ö
ôYeah,ö Waver remembered. ôBut that all changed when his friend died.ö
ôPatroclus, yes. Naturally, pride comes a distant second after the death of a good friend. And in some stories, he was lured to his death by Polyxena, who the Trojans promised to marry to him.ö
ôAnd the War itself. He fought for Helen, didnÆt he?ö Waver asked.
ôNot quite. Listen here: æThen, with an angry look, swift-footed Achilles replied: Why, you shameless schemer, why should any Achaean leap to obey your orders to march or wage war? No quarrel with Trojan spearmen brought me here to fight: they have done me no wrong. No horse or cow of mine have they stolen, nor have my crops been ravaged in deep-soiled Phthia, nurturer of men, since the shadowy mountains and the echoing sea lie between us. No, for your pleasure, you shameless cur, we followed to try and win recompense, for you and Menelaus, from the Trojans. And you neither see nor care; and even threaten to rob me of my prize, given by the sons of Achaea, reward for which I laboured. When the Achaeans sack some rich Trojan city, itÆs not I who win the prize. My hands bear the brunt of the fiercest fight, but when the wealth is shared, yours is the greater, while I return, weary with battle, to the ships, with some small fraction for my own. So now IÆm for Phthia, since itÆs better to lead my beaked ships home than stay here dishonoured piling up wealth and goods for you.Æö
Waver frowned.
ôThenàö
ôHe did not come for Helen, but for the sake of Agamemnon and the Achaeans. And when he was dishonored despite his work, it took the interference of Athena herself to keep him from killing Agamemnon for his insult. But this is in part why heÆd interestingàand troublesome. He demands to be honored as befits his effortsùand to be honored fairly, even compared to a King. While he will fight fiercely, he will not be dishonored or disrespected, even by a King. To negotiate with a man who has learnt will the fickle words of men will be difficultàbut I am no Agamemnon.ö Rider laughed. ôI will make him my general, and he will lead my forces at my sideùI will show him that fight as fiercely as any man and honor them justly.ö
Before Waver could reply, a sound like an ear-splitting explosion rocked his world.
No, not a soundùit had directly touched his senses as a magus. In other words, it was definitely caused by magecraft.
ôWhat was that?ö Alexander, who, as a Servant, could also feel it clearly. ôIt came from the East.ö
Through the window, they could a plume of strangely glowing cloud dispersing into the air. Even though they could see the smoke clearly, it was definitely the result of magecraft and a normal person probably could see the glow or feel that ænoise.Æ
ôThat positionàthatÆs where the Fuyuki Church is, right?ö Waver said.
ôIs it something related to us?ö Alexander asked, his eyes sharp.
ôIt could beàItÆs possible weÆre being summoned. Butàdrawing attention to ourselves is probably the wrong thing to do.ö
After all, heÆd stolen the relic he used to summon Alexander. It was possible heÆd get in trouble if he made his identity knownùespecially by showing up in such a way, in front of the other Masters.
ôBut at the same time, if the Church is calling for the MasterÆs to gather, it must be important. It could mean the addition of conditions or amendments to the rules; missing it could be foolish, too.ö
ôùYour wrong about something, boy.ö Rider said, still staring towards the Church. ôShowing up is definitely the right thing to do.ö
Just like that, the issue Waver was debating over was dismissed as if it were meaningless.
ôW-What? How can you be so sure?ö He asked, surprised and confused.
ôItÆs natural, isnÆt it? ItÆs more fitting to stroll boldly in before the other MasterÆs and show them your own power, right?ö
It was only then that Waver realized his mistake.
HeÆd spoke of the meeting out loud.
ôAnd also,ö Rider continued. ôIf all the Masters are watching, now would be a good time to make an impression on Berserker.ö
ôWhy is he so important?ö Waver complained. ôAchilles or no, we know his weakness. Everyone does. SoàheÆs just another Servant. Why is he so special.ö
Rider looked at his silently, as if there was something he should have realized.
ôùIndeed, Achilles alone, while legendary and powerful, is still just another Heroic Spirit. But he is something special for one reason.ö
ôWhat?ö
ôAchilles is a warrior who served a King.ö Rider said seriously. ôIn this war, where three of the participants are Kingsàa Kingless warrior is perhaps the most dangerous opponent of all. And while he may just be another Heroic Spirit, he is both legendary and mightyùan opponent that could become truly fearsome if he entered the service of another. SoàI am definitely not the only one who will see Achilles as someone to recruit.ö
Waver swallowed as Rider continued.
ôNo matter what he or his Master wishes for, there are probably other ways of obtaining it besides the Grail. If offered the right thing, he will definitely be willing to bow before a King as he did in life. So he is definitely the most dangerous Servant, as long as the question remainsàIs there a King that has what he wants?ö
XxXXxX
Man, are you joking? Both Saber and Enkidu attacked him--the former repeatedly, with a sharp object. Actually, so did Alex, and he liked all three of them. He killed Alex and was willing to kill Saber, but still.
Gil's reactions to people are pretty weird. He was prepared to kill both Saber and Alex for calling themselves kings in his presence, then he sat down with them for booze and decided they were pretty cool guys after all, then he drank with Alex again, then killed him, and then praised him and let Waver go out of respect for him.
Of course, at the same time, he told told Sakura to go die, killed Rin's mother, set things up for Kariya to take the blame, and murdered Caster and Berserker just because. Kotomine, he developed an interest in and fondness for.
So yeah. Gil's reactions to people are weird, inconsistent, and prone to quick and random change.
Gil's reactions to people are pretty weird. He was prepared to kill both Saber and Alex for calling themselves kings in his presence, then he sat down with them for booze and decided they were pretty cool guys after all, then he drank with Alex again, then killed him, and then praised him and let Waver go out of respect for him.
Of course, at the same time, he told told Sakura to go die, killed Rin's mother, set things up for Kariya to take the blame, and murdered Caster and Berserker just because. Kotomine, he developed an interest in and fondness for.
So yeah. Gil's reactions to people are weird, inconsistent, and prone to quick and random change.
XxXXxX
An oppressive atmosphere hung over the pews of the Church.
The dense aura was almost demonic, and Father Risei barely kept himself from laughing nervously.
In response to the summoning, two of the MasterÆs had sent familiars, as heÆd expected. From what he knew, it was likely the Masters of Saber and Lancer.
It was almost ironic how the Masters of the two Servants best known for being direct had turned out to be the only ones to exercise prudence.
Because while he had expected familiars, knowing that most magi would show no etiquette towards the Church, he had not expected anyone to show up in person.
And yet, here they were. Two Servants, Archer and Rider, and RiderÆs Master, whose name he did not know.
Archer had arrived first, surprising him by materializing in a ray of golden light. Surprisingly, while had had shown Risei no respect or even acknowledged his presence, he also showed little disrespectùunusual for him, according to Tokiomi.
Or perhaps not so unusual. After being told his identity prior to his actual summon, Risei had looked into the Epic of Gilgamesh.
æIn Uruk he built walls, a great rampart, and the temple of blessed Eanna for the god of the firmament Anu, and for Ishtar the goddess of love.Æ
Perhaps as one who had built æchurchesÆ for his own gods, he acted a bit more respectful within them?
It was something to keep in mind.
Alexander had entered through the front door, pushing them open with a bang and a cry. His Master stuck close to him, especially after seeing Archer was also in attendance, but Rider had stalked in like the king he was. When he and Gilgamesh had met eyes, the tension in the room had dramatically increased, and Risei had worried that a fight would break out.
Servants really shouldnÆt be in the neutral territory of the Church, for exactly that reason, but Risei wasnÆt going to be the one to kick them out.
In the end, Alexander had smiled at Archer and sat down in the left row, as if to declare it his own in opposite to Gilgamesh, who occupied the right side. They hadnÆt stopped staring at each other, and with every second that passed by, it felt like a fight was getting closer to breaking out.
In honesty, Risei was supposed to wait for a few more minutes to let BerserkerÆs Master show upùhopefully through a familiar, or at least aloneùbut RiseiÆs desire to get this over with was increasing rapidly.
But before he could say anything, everyoneÆs eyes, including his own, shifted to the back of the center row. From where he was standing, he could not see the ground, but he could see what was emerging from it.
A gigantic black dog, with red eyes and horrifying teeth. It was impossibly bigùlarger than a tank or even a garbage truckùand growled at the sight of Archer and Rider. RiderÆs master whimpered quietly at the sight, and the sound was enough to draw the beastÆs attention, for it immediately focused its blood colored eyes on him.
RiderÆs sword was suddenly in his hand and he lifted it casually, not as if to fight, but as if preparing to make a point.
His Master immediately spoke up, panicked.
ôR-Rider! Not in here! YouÆll destroy the whole Church!ö
Risei didnÆt know what Rider was about to do, but his MasterÆs words made his eyes widen.
Suddenly, a glow from the opposite side of the Church drew his attention. Gilgamesh hadnÆt moved from his seat, but his eyes were sharp and the space around him was distortedùthe sign that he was using his Noble Phantasm.
For a moment, Risei was sure a fight was going to break out in the middle of the Church and heÆd die in the conflict, but thenù
ôùBehave.ö Berserker said.
The giant hound immediately quieted.
Sliding off its back, Berserker looked from Rider to Archer, neither of whom had put away their weapons, before patting his dogÆs side.
ôShe knows when to act civilized.ö He said. ôI guess that makes her better trained then either of you.ö
For a moment, nothing happened, but then Rider sheathed his sword a laugh. The warped space around Archer, however, did not fade.
Seeing this, Berserker chose to walk down the right aisle, approaching the golden king without fear, stopping when he stood over Archer.
The two heroes looked at each other, unflinching and apparently unworried.
ôBehaving in a Church while under the eyes of a priest is something even small children can do, Your Highness.ö Berserker stated matter-of-factly.
He didnÆt even have a chance to react before a sword slammed into his face at unbelievably high speed. Lifting him from his feet, the force of the blow smashed him into the center row, sending splinters of wood flying.
The houndÆs red eyes became feverishly bright, focused on ArcherÆs face. The King of Heroes narrowed his own in a silent challenge.
Amidst the ruins of the center row, Berserker laughed, rising out of the rubble unharmed. He gave a wry smile to Archer.
ôùIt must be embarrassing for Tohsaka-san, to have such an unruly Servant. Even my Master, with a single year of training, did better.ö Berserker mocked ArcherÆs Master, even though he was not there. ôBut I am not one to cheat, so IÆll remind youùfighting within the Church is prohibited. If you continue to do so, it will hurt your Master as well.ö
Risei realized he was right. In his role as an æimpartialÆ judge, if Gilgamesh continued to fight, he would have to act against Tokiomi, even though he was allied with him.
Berserker continued, heedless of ArcherÆs growing anger.
ôI wonder what will happenùwill your MasterÆs position be undermined by your foolish actions, or will Tohsaka-san have to remove you for misbehaving again? Save yourself the embarrassment and put away your weapon, Your Highness.ö
For a minute, everything was silent. ArcherÆs red eyes burnt with such anger that they almost seemed to glowùand then he laughed. He laughed uproariously and madly, and then stopped as suddenly as he began.
ôVery well,ö He said. ôI will at least acknowledge that you are too foolish to know when to be afraid. Let us continue our discussion later, then.ö
Berserker bowed slightly.
ôOf course, Your Highness.ö He said, before walking silently around Archer to take a seat on the other side of him.
ArcherÆs amusement faded as quickly as it had appeared and he shot Berserker a fierce glared. Berserker looked back with calm, sea-green eyes.
ôI was going to sit in the middle, but then you blew up my seat.ö He pointed out calmly. ôSo I decided IÆd sit with you instead, since weÆre getting along so well now. Is there a problem with that, Your Highness?ö
ArcherÆs brow furrowed in anger.
Risei decided to start talking before a fight really did break out.
An oppressive atmosphere hung over the pews of the Church.
The dense aura was almost demonic, and Father Risei barely kept himself from laughing nervously.
In response to the summoning, two of the MasterÆs had sent familiars, as heÆd expected. From what he knew, it was likely the Masters of Saber and Lancer.
It was almost ironic how the Masters of the two Servants best known for being direct had turned out to be the only ones to exercise prudence.
Because while he had expected familiars, knowing that most magi would show no etiquette towards the Church, he had not expected anyone to show up in person.
And yet, here they were. Two Servants, Archer and Rider, and RiderÆs Master, whose name he did not know.
Archer had arrived first, surprising him by materializing in a ray of golden light. Surprisingly, while had had shown Risei no respect or even acknowledged his presence, he also showed little disrespectùunusual for him, according to Tokiomi.
Or perhaps not so unusual. After being told his identity prior to his actual summon, Risei had looked into the Epic of Gilgamesh.
æIn Uruk he built walls, a great rampart, and the temple of blessed Eanna for the god of the firmament Anu, and for Ishtar the goddess of love.Æ
Perhaps as one who had built æchurchesÆ for his own gods, he acted a bit more respectful within them?
It was something to keep in mind.
Alexander had entered through the front door, pushing them open with a bang and a cry. His Master stuck close to him, especially after seeing Archer was also in attendance, but Rider had stalked in like the king he was. When he and Gilgamesh had met eyes, the tension in the room had dramatically increased, and Risei had worried that a fight would break out.
Servants really shouldnÆt be in the neutral territory of the Church, for exactly that reason, but Risei wasnÆt going to be the one to kick them out.
In the end, Alexander had smiled at Archer and sat down in the left row, as if to declare it his own in opposite to Gilgamesh, who occupied the right side. They hadnÆt stopped staring at each other, and with every second that passed by, it felt like a fight was getting closer to breaking out.
In honesty, Risei was supposed to wait for a few more minutes to let BerserkerÆs Master show upùhopefully through a familiar, or at least aloneùbut RiseiÆs desire to get this over with was increasing rapidly.
But before he could say anything, everyoneÆs eyes, including his own, shifted to the back of the center row. From where he was standing, he could not see the ground, but he could see what was emerging from it.
A gigantic black dog, with red eyes and horrifying teeth. It was impossibly bigùlarger than a tank or even a garbage truckùand growled at the sight of Archer and Rider. RiderÆs master whimpered quietly at the sight, and the sound was enough to draw the beastÆs attention, for it immediately focused its blood colored eyes on him.
RiderÆs sword was suddenly in his hand and he lifted it casually, not as if to fight, but as if preparing to make a point.
His Master immediately spoke up, panicked.
ôR-Rider! Not in here! YouÆll destroy the whole Church!ö
Risei didnÆt know what Rider was about to do, but his MasterÆs words made his eyes widen.
Suddenly, a glow from the opposite side of the Church drew his attention. Gilgamesh hadnÆt moved from his seat, but his eyes were sharp and the space around him was distortedùthe sign that he was using his Noble Phantasm.
For a moment, Risei was sure a fight was going to break out in the middle of the Church and heÆd die in the conflict, but thenù
ôùBehave.ö Berserker said.
The giant hound immediately quieted.
Sliding off its back, Berserker looked from Rider to Archer, neither of whom had put away their weapons, before patting his dogÆs side.
ôShe knows when to act civilized.ö He said. ôI guess that makes her better trained then either of you.ö
For a moment, nothing happened, but then Rider sheathed his sword a laugh. The warped space around Archer, however, did not fade.
Seeing this, Berserker chose to walk down the right aisle, approaching the golden king without fear, stopping when he stood over Archer.
The two heroes looked at each other, unflinching and apparently unworried.
ôBehaving in a Church while under the eyes of a priest is something even small children can do, Your Highness.ö Berserker stated matter-of-factly.
He didnÆt even have a chance to react before a sword slammed into his face at unbelievably high speed. Lifting him from his feet, the force of the blow smashed him into the center row, sending splinters of wood flying.
The houndÆs red eyes became feverishly bright, focused on ArcherÆs face. The King of Heroes narrowed his own in a silent challenge.
Amidst the ruins of the center row, Berserker laughed, rising out of the rubble unharmed. He gave a wry smile to Archer.
ôùIt must be embarrassing for Tohsaka-san, to have such an unruly Servant. Even my Master, with a single year of training, did better.ö Berserker mocked ArcherÆs Master, even though he was not there. ôBut I am not one to cheat, so IÆll remind youùfighting within the Church is prohibited. If you continue to do so, it will hurt your Master as well.ö
Risei realized he was right. In his role as an æimpartialÆ judge, if Gilgamesh continued to fight, he would have to act against Tokiomi, even though he was allied with him.
Berserker continued, heedless of ArcherÆs growing anger.
ôI wonder what will happenùwill your MasterÆs position be undermined by your foolish actions, or will Tohsaka-san have to remove you for misbehaving again? Save yourself the embarrassment and put away your weapon, Your Highness.ö
For a minute, everything was silent. ArcherÆs red eyes burnt with such anger that they almost seemed to glowùand then he laughed. He laughed uproariously and madly, and then stopped as suddenly as he began.
ôVery well,ö He said. ôI will at least acknowledge that you are too foolish to know when to be afraid. Let us continue our discussion later, then.ö
Berserker bowed slightly.
ôOf course, Your Highness.ö He said, before walking silently around Archer to take a seat on the other side of him.
ArcherÆs amusement faded as quickly as it had appeared and he shot Berserker a fierce glared. Berserker looked back with calm, sea-green eyes.
ôI was going to sit in the middle, but then you blew up my seat.ö He pointed out calmly. ôSo I decided IÆd sit with you instead, since weÆre getting along so well now. Is there a problem with that, Your Highness?ö
ArcherÆs brow furrowed in anger.
Risei decided to start talking before a fight really did break out.
Holding Back the Sea
Change of Hostilities
Risei went straight to the point.
ôThe Holy Grail War, which you are all risking your lives on, is currently in danger.ö He said.
At his words, all signs of joking disappeared from BerserkerÆs face. What was left could have been carved from marbleùif any statue could have such intense eyes.
ôThe Holy Grail is supposed to bestow power only to those that seek it, but now there is a traitor amongst our ranks. Ignoring the Holy Grail, he and his Servant are misusing the power granted to them to satisfy their own, frivolous desires.ö Risei continued, melodramatically. It was a style of speaking he had long since gotten used to, as a preacher.
His congregation listened silently, but the intensity of their stares was like a physical weight upon him. Already, a strange feeling had filled the Church; a strange feeling that was not prana, but barely restrained energy ready to be given form.
Risei knew that while his words had indeed stopped the gathered Servants from fighting, it had left a desire to fight in the blood of each of them. They needed to be aimed at something, soon, or the fight would break out again as soon as he was finished.
With that in mind, he spoke the words he was sure would garner the greatest reaction.
ôWe have discovered that CasterÆs Master is the one behind the recent serial killings and kidnappings. He has taken over thirty children for unknown reasons and has murdered a number of people. He is using Caster to carry out his crimes.ö
The outrage was instantaneous.
The wood of the pew in front of Berserker was crushed underneath his grip as a feverish light filled his eyes. He didnÆt say anything, but the feel of him, his æpresenceÆ had changed in an instantùwithout a doubt, that feeling was a lust for blood worth of the Heroic Spirit of Fury.
It seemed that the famous Rage of Achilles had awokenùRisei hoped that the Berserker didnÆt activate his Mad Enhancement. Or at least not in the Church.
RiderÆs normally cheerful expression had become suddenly grim with the great disapproval of a King. His wrath didnÆt feel the air like BerserkerÆs, but it was obvious he was displeased.
But the most surprising reaction of all was ArcherÆs.
ôùHmph. Yes, I understand, now. A person like that will become a curse if theyÆre not taken care of quickly.ö He said. There was no anger in him as there was in Rider and Berserker, but there was the great and obvious displeasure of a King. ôNo matter. ItÆs not my style to stand by and watch people die.ö
The man who does not care about anyone else is concerned for the people. Without a doubt, for Risei, and also for Kirei and Tokiomi, this was a surprising development.
And the feeling was not limited merely to the humans.
ôHo?ö Berserker asked. His anger hadnÆt faded in the slightest, but it seemed contained completely within his æaura.Æ Despite his anger weighing down the air as if it were an actual physical force, there was none of it in his tone. ôIÆm surprised, Archer. WhatÆs going on?ö
ôIt should not be so surprising. I simply do not like it when people are killed by someone besides me. If they do, people will be drowned in pathetic things like crime and punishmentùsuch a thing is not amusing at all.ö
Even when speaking of such things, there was a certain majesty in the KingÆs tone. Even so, his words cause BerserkerÆs eyes to go a little sharpùit was the same thing as saying that killing was fine as long it was by ArcherÆs hand. But his tone remained amiable.
ôI see. We are in agreement, then, about what needs to be done about Caster and his Master?ö
ôIndeed,ö Risei interrupted. ôThey are no longer the enemies of any individual, but a threat to us all. Therefore, I use my authority as a supervisor to change the rules of the Holy Grail War temporarily.ö
He didnÆt want to do thisùit was an obviously horrible plan in front of three Servants, and yet he had too, or else the other Masters would never go along with the plan. Tokiomi and RiderÆs Master may even go as far as calling back their Servants.
So he went through with the plan, even as he feared for his own life.
Even as he spoke, he rolled up the sleeve of his right arm. Even as an old man, it was still as strong and muscular as it had been when he was young, and it was fully covered in tattoos from elbow to wristù
No. Those were not tattoos. Any participant in the Holy Grail War could tell in an instant what they were.
ôThese were collected from the previous Wars and entrusted to me as the supervisor. Left behind by the Masters who lost before the final battleùtheir Command Seals.ö
ôI can transfer these reserve Command Seals to anyone, based on my judgment. Whether youÆre Servants or Masters, I guess you can understand the importance of these things?ö
Even for Servants, it was a tempting prospect. While Command Seals are methods to control Servants, they have other uses as well; if both Master and Servant were in agreement on a goal, a Command Seal could create a miracle, as long as the Master and Servant have to prana to make it occur. Even if they lacked knowledge of how to make it happen, so long as they had the prana, they could do it.
Or rather, that was the theory. But for many Servants, it was nothing but another leash.
Even so, none of the assembled Servants seemed to care at all about the Command Seals.
Nearly sighing in relief, Risei continued.
ôAll MasterÆs should stop current hostilities. The mission is to destroy CasterùI will bestow additional Command Seals to the one who manages to annihilate him. If it was accomplished alone, only one will be rewardedùif you cooperate, each will be rewarded. Once I have made sure that Caster is dead, the Holy Grail War will continue. If there are any questions, ask them now.ö
ôùSo if we work together, our enemies positions will also improve?ö Rider asked.
Berserker glanced at him and nodded in understanding.
ôIn that case, it would be better to hunt him alone, strategically.ö He said. ôBut I want Caster deadùI donÆt care about the Command Seals.ö
ôAgreed.ö Archer added. ôThenàshall we make a game of him?ö
Berserker and Rider immediately turned towards the King, whose red eyes glimmered. Risei realized he had been dismissed; the heroes no longer cared about him in the slightest.
ôWe all wish for CasterÆs head, yet working together would be foolish. The answer is simple, thenùthis is a competition.ö
ôAh,ö Rider said. ôThe rules have changed, but this too is a part of the War. We all oppose each other, even if not physically, and strive to prove who is the best. Thenàa hunt?ö
ôIÆm familiar with hunting down beasts,ö Berserker said. ôI consider Caster and his Master no more than one. Hunting him down for sport seems fitting.ö
Archer continued, as if heÆd been the one to propose this change in the first place.
ôThen the rules are simpleùthe first one to kill them wins.ö
ôI wonÆt work with either of you, but I wonÆt attack you either.ö Berserker said. ôNone of us care for the Command Seals. So instead, shall we wager our pride?ö
ôThen for now, weÆll put aside the competition of who is the greatest hero,ö Rider said. ôInstead, shall we see who the greatest hunter is?ö
XxXXxX
Change of Hostilities
Risei went straight to the point.
ôThe Holy Grail War, which you are all risking your lives on, is currently in danger.ö He said.
At his words, all signs of joking disappeared from BerserkerÆs face. What was left could have been carved from marbleùif any statue could have such intense eyes.
ôThe Holy Grail is supposed to bestow power only to those that seek it, but now there is a traitor amongst our ranks. Ignoring the Holy Grail, he and his Servant are misusing the power granted to them to satisfy their own, frivolous desires.ö Risei continued, melodramatically. It was a style of speaking he had long since gotten used to, as a preacher.
His congregation listened silently, but the intensity of their stares was like a physical weight upon him. Already, a strange feeling had filled the Church; a strange feeling that was not prana, but barely restrained energy ready to be given form.
Risei knew that while his words had indeed stopped the gathered Servants from fighting, it had left a desire to fight in the blood of each of them. They needed to be aimed at something, soon, or the fight would break out again as soon as he was finished.
With that in mind, he spoke the words he was sure would garner the greatest reaction.
ôWe have discovered that CasterÆs Master is the one behind the recent serial killings and kidnappings. He has taken over thirty children for unknown reasons and has murdered a number of people. He is using Caster to carry out his crimes.ö
The outrage was instantaneous.
The wood of the pew in front of Berserker was crushed underneath his grip as a feverish light filled his eyes. He didnÆt say anything, but the feel of him, his æpresenceÆ had changed in an instantùwithout a doubt, that feeling was a lust for blood worth of the Heroic Spirit of Fury.
It seemed that the famous Rage of Achilles had awokenùRisei hoped that the Berserker didnÆt activate his Mad Enhancement. Or at least not in the Church.
RiderÆs normally cheerful expression had become suddenly grim with the great disapproval of a King. His wrath didnÆt feel the air like BerserkerÆs, but it was obvious he was displeased.
But the most surprising reaction of all was ArcherÆs.
ôùHmph. Yes, I understand, now. A person like that will become a curse if theyÆre not taken care of quickly.ö He said. There was no anger in him as there was in Rider and Berserker, but there was the great and obvious displeasure of a King. ôNo matter. ItÆs not my style to stand by and watch people die.ö
The man who does not care about anyone else is concerned for the people. Without a doubt, for Risei, and also for Kirei and Tokiomi, this was a surprising development.
And the feeling was not limited merely to the humans.
ôHo?ö Berserker asked. His anger hadnÆt faded in the slightest, but it seemed contained completely within his æaura.Æ Despite his anger weighing down the air as if it were an actual physical force, there was none of it in his tone. ôIÆm surprised, Archer. WhatÆs going on?ö
ôIt should not be so surprising. I simply do not like it when people are killed by someone besides me. If they do, people will be drowned in pathetic things like crime and punishmentùsuch a thing is not amusing at all.ö
Even when speaking of such things, there was a certain majesty in the KingÆs tone. Even so, his words cause BerserkerÆs eyes to go a little sharpùit was the same thing as saying that killing was fine as long it was by ArcherÆs hand. But his tone remained amiable.
ôI see. We are in agreement, then, about what needs to be done about Caster and his Master?ö
ôIndeed,ö Risei interrupted. ôThey are no longer the enemies of any individual, but a threat to us all. Therefore, I use my authority as a supervisor to change the rules of the Holy Grail War temporarily.ö
He didnÆt want to do thisùit was an obviously horrible plan in front of three Servants, and yet he had too, or else the other Masters would never go along with the plan. Tokiomi and RiderÆs Master may even go as far as calling back their Servants.
So he went through with the plan, even as he feared for his own life.
Even as he spoke, he rolled up the sleeve of his right arm. Even as an old man, it was still as strong and muscular as it had been when he was young, and it was fully covered in tattoos from elbow to wristù
No. Those were not tattoos. Any participant in the Holy Grail War could tell in an instant what they were.
ôThese were collected from the previous Wars and entrusted to me as the supervisor. Left behind by the Masters who lost before the final battleùtheir Command Seals.ö
ôI can transfer these reserve Command Seals to anyone, based on my judgment. Whether youÆre Servants or Masters, I guess you can understand the importance of these things?ö
Even for Servants, it was a tempting prospect. While Command Seals are methods to control Servants, they have other uses as well; if both Master and Servant were in agreement on a goal, a Command Seal could create a miracle, as long as the Master and Servant have to prana to make it occur. Even if they lacked knowledge of how to make it happen, so long as they had the prana, they could do it.
Or rather, that was the theory. But for many Servants, it was nothing but another leash.
Even so, none of the assembled Servants seemed to care at all about the Command Seals.
Nearly sighing in relief, Risei continued.
ôAll MasterÆs should stop current hostilities. The mission is to destroy CasterùI will bestow additional Command Seals to the one who manages to annihilate him. If it was accomplished alone, only one will be rewardedùif you cooperate, each will be rewarded. Once I have made sure that Caster is dead, the Holy Grail War will continue. If there are any questions, ask them now.ö
ôùSo if we work together, our enemies positions will also improve?ö Rider asked.
Berserker glanced at him and nodded in understanding.
ôIn that case, it would be better to hunt him alone, strategically.ö He said. ôBut I want Caster deadùI donÆt care about the Command Seals.ö
ôAgreed.ö Archer added. ôThenàshall we make a game of him?ö
Berserker and Rider immediately turned towards the King, whose red eyes glimmered. Risei realized he had been dismissed; the heroes no longer cared about him in the slightest.
ôWe all wish for CasterÆs head, yet working together would be foolish. The answer is simple, thenùthis is a competition.ö
ôAh,ö Rider said. ôThe rules have changed, but this too is a part of the War. We all oppose each other, even if not physically, and strive to prove who is the best. Thenàa hunt?ö
ôIÆm familiar with hunting down beasts,ö Berserker said. ôI consider Caster and his Master no more than one. Hunting him down for sport seems fitting.ö
Archer continued, as if heÆd been the one to propose this change in the first place.
ôThen the rules are simpleùthe first one to kill them wins.ö
ôI wonÆt work with either of you, but I wonÆt attack you either.ö Berserker said. ôNone of us care for the Command Seals. So instead, shall we wager our pride?ö
ôThen for now, weÆll put aside the competition of who is the greatest hero,ö Rider said. ôInstead, shall we see who the greatest hunter is?ö
XxXXxX