Fate/Blackened Sugar

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Order Assassin to use the opening this new Servant made to get inside the facility. Her priority is securing the Grail first and foremost.

"Don't kill him. Go past him. No doubt his aim must be the Grail too but Caster will be distracted by his presence. You have an opening," you said as you limped towards the hospital, "I'm going towards you, we can rendezvous once you have the Grail. Try not to be seen."

"I understand. I will see you soon, my Lord," Assassin echoed through your connection as you looked ahead.

So the others have come. It seems that you were a little too slow this time. But hopefully, Manaka will have impeccable timing and contribute to the chaos. There was no need to hide anymore and you doubted that Caster will sic her pets towards you. She had more pressing issues to deal with.

You walked out to the streets and immediately every single person looked at you. You walked casually with your cane and smiled at them. Every man, woman and child stared at you as you tapped your cane. Lifting your hand up, you wagged your finger and shook your head.

BOOM

You weren't the one she was supposed to be worried about. The shades of humans vanished as the tales they were born from were weaved to be drawn to the hospital. This battle was just beginning...

.....
....
...

The unknown Servant had gone through the doors. Assassin moved quickly to follow him and jumped to ascend to the air. She grabbed on to the upper portion of the doors and used her Shinobi techniques to move along the walls.

Somehow, the new Servant had already vanished from her detection range. That man was quick in his feet...

Not only that, Assassin looked about the interior of the hospital. It seemed that space was drastically distorted to accommodate the larger interior of the facility compared to its outside appearance. She kicked off the wall and landed upon a golden chandelier, keeping to the darker shadows it cast while looking down.

Bodies of guardsmen and monsters laid strewn on the floor. This Servant was having a better time than Berserker was, surprisingly enough. Even when she noticed how he seemed to have hesitated fighting the Djinn at the park.

She jumped down and landed at the ground floor. He seemed to be making his way elsewhere. Caster will be preoccupied in guarding the Grail and defending against the intruder. Assassin decided that it was high time she got to exercise.

She dashed through the halls that had been twisted and turned from its outward appearance of a hospital. This place was a mesh between a hospital and a castle, no doubt an effect of Caster's territory creation.

Normally an Assassin like her would find it difficult to infiltrate this place but with the chaos, she was able to sneak by. The Grail's presence burned in Assassin's mind, she should be at the upper levels.

Assassin detected the magical energy of some constructs and moved to hide. A gargantuan bird spread its wings upon noticing her presence. It flapped once and created a gust powerful enough to tear into the stone walls.

The second floor seemed to have been large enough to accompany the size of this great beast as it looked with its keen eye for any sign of the Servant. Assassin hid in the shadows and held her blade and kunai.

According to the Grail, that Beast was named the Roc.

A Phantasmal Beast of great size and strength, capable of lifting elephants from the ground and carrying them to the mountains. It was one of Caster's fierce pets and seemed to be a guardian of this floor.

The great bird soared in the air, maneuvering with excellent grace and control before getting a better view of the area below.

However Assassin had already climbed a nearby pillar and came level to the monster. She jumped and the Roc turned to blow her away. Violent winds rushed towards the Servant and sliced her apart.

In a split second the Servant's body turned into a snake skin just as she fell from the ceiling. Spinning down, her blades danced and she cut the monster right on its eye before throwing a bomb towards it, sending it flying back and smashing into the ceiling.

"Come," Assassin murmured as she held her hand before her body.

From beneath her, an invisible snake rushed and allowed her to stand on it. It ascended to the monster and was caught by the Roc's claws.

The Roc had caught the Giant Snake, its invisibility wearing off and revealing its dark scales. However Assassin used this opening to charge straight for the Roc's throat and cut.

The monster choked and she ripped her blade from its body. She spun in the air before landing on the ground and sheathing her sword. Her Giant Snake crashed alongside the mighty bird with the former constricting and swallowing the latter whole.

"Enough games..." Assassin breathed as she walked ahead. She moved and blended with the darkness, silently searching and killing.

As a snake would...

.....
....
...

You stopped before the hospital and observed it. It was covered in a multi-layer defensive barrier, all to keep mages out. It was quite possible that these were remnants from when they were erected during daytime to drive away Mages.

Other than that, it's pretty bare. No traps of any kind...

You were starting to think that while that Master was smart, he may not be a normal Magus. Just a troublesome man for you to deal with.

However as you were thinking that, you perked up.

"Master. I've found her," Assassin reported back to you, followed by an explosion.

You narrowed your gaze as it came from within the Hospital. This was followed by Assassin jumping out a window.

"Fuck," you cursed as you moved.

......
.....
....

Moments ago

The Armored man fell to his knee as he looked at his hand. He turned to look at his foe, the woman sitting at the far end of this hall. Her dark skinned reflected the light of the lamps surrounding her and her eyes gave him a look of pity.

He understood... For he too was a King and so she was the best counter to him. This was problematic...

"Shall I weave you another Tale, your Majesty?" Caster offered as she swept her staff through the air.

"And what Tale can you weave for me that will let me grasp victory?" The Servant questioned in a low tone.

"One that would give you greater insight in what you should be doing. Striking me down is not what you should be doing... But cutting down the Servants that seek the Grail as well," Caster spoke as she slowly stood up, "Servant Rider, you yourself are masked in a tale... It only takes but a small nudge to unravel your story."

"As expected of a storyteller," Rider mused as he tried standing up, "In a Grail War of Kings, you would be a force to be reckoned with."

"I have no desire for the Grail save for my own continued existence. And even if I were to have it, I would only wish to live peacefully without fear of death," Caster replied in her calming voice, "But if you were to protect me... Then you may just have it."

Rider stared at her from behind his helmet. He was silent for a moment before sighing.

"I don't think so. Ophelia," Rider spoke with a low chuckle.

Caster's eyes widened as from the shadows emerged a woman dressed in a suit. Her brown hair flowed as she took off a piece of a mantle which rendered her invisible.

She took off the cloth which his her right eye.

Caster was frozen as she didn't detect the presence of the enemy Master. This close to her chamber? But how?

"Servant Caster, I do not observe thy Brilliance," she declared as her Mystic Eye activated.

Almost immediately, the effects which slowed down Rider were muted. Caster's ability to sway the whims of a King to ensure her survival had been blocked and she stepped back in panic as Rider stood up.

The piece of his mantle returned to him.

"You're... Not Odysseus?" Caster whispered in shock as the Armored man took the form of a masked Wraith.

"No. I am a King though," Rider declared as a wicked sickle formed in his grasp.

However just before he could swing, Caster was taken away by a flash of red. She was gone...

Rider cut through the bed with his sickle and grimaced behind his mask, "Darn it."

"'I am a King though' he says," the woman quietly murmured with a small smile, "Enjoying yourself?"

"Sorry. I made all your hard work futile... Scouting this place ahead of me," Rider replied as he faced his Master.

"She's not too far. Rider, hunt her down," the woman ordered and the Servant nodded.

.....
....
...

Assassin stood by the door leading to the Grail's room. What she saw was but a small girl, no older than 8 years old. She looked of Japanese descent and had long black hair, the same as Assassin's... But her eyes were strange.

They were golden and gave off an otherworldly feeling about them.

There was no doubt, this was the Holy Grail she had found nights ago.

The girl raised her head from her storybook and looked at Assassin.

"You are... A Servant?" The girl asked with a calm tone.

Assassin was left speechless before she turned and drew her sword.

"Miyu!" A young man called and he froze upon setting his sight on Assassin.

Behind the Magus was a woman, her eyes widening as she pulled him back.

"Lady Miyu, get down!" Caster barked as light erupted before her.

Assassin moved and grabbed the girl, protecting her from the explosion. Assassin survived as she knelt down to keep the Grail protected.

"Caster!" The Magus exclaimed in alarm.

Djinns appeared and reached out towards Assassin, only for her to jump back and shatter the window. The Djinns managed to grab her by the leg as she threw the girl from her arms.

"MASTER!" Assassin screamed as she was dragged back inside.

.....
....
...

Reinforcing your legs, you etched a rune on the air and decreased the falling girl's descent. You tossed aside your cane and used your body to catch her, holding her close as you took the brunt of her fall.

Assassin was dragged back in while you kept the girl safe.

"Why... Mr. Luke... Caster..?" The golden eyes girl whispered as she looked past you and toward the hospital.

Collapse​

[] Put her to sleep. Tuck her away for now, you need to help your Servant.
[] "Can you stand? Good. There's trouble but I'll need you to come with me for now."
[] "Are you okay? Does anything hurt? I... I won't harm you. Tell me what happened up there."
[] Write in...

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Put her to sleep. Tuck her away for now, you need to help your Servant.

This was really all bad timing. You gently set her down just as she was about to rise, however with a simple charm, you were able to coax her to sleep. Her eyelids grew heavy and a great drowsiness filled her small body. You eventually watched her fall asleep as you called for your cane.

It flew back to your grasp and you etched the ground with protective runes both to conceal and defend her. You didn't have much time but you can't just let Assassin be left behind.

"Of all times," you breathed as you finished casting the last charm and concealing the little girl.

Standing up, you turned to the hospital to chase after Assassin... Wherever she could be.

.....
....
...

Berserker stood before a large swirl of magical energy and marveled at the sight. He and his Master stood at a chamber deep underground and had traveled through a secret entrance to behold this swirl.

"Berserker, it's time to destroy it," Manaka ordered with a smile, "This is a pretty vital anchor point."

"I hear ya. But you never mentioned we'd be getting here," Berserker said as he cracked an amused look.

"Isn't it fun to be surprised?" Manaka asked as she held her hands behind her back.

"Right. Let's start breaking shit," he said as he mustered all his strength and swung at the Anchor.

.....
....
...

Assassin flew through the wall and smashed straight into another. Coughing blood, she grit her teeth before she dodged a punch from a Djinn and flipped to evade a backhand. Drawing her sword, she parried a blow once before moving in and slicing the construct apart.

Caster stepped back and slammed her staff into the ground, summoning thieves with razor sharp scimitars.

"I won't let you escape!" Caster declared as Assassin narrowed her gaze.

"Caster! What about Miyu?" Luke asked as he looked to his Servant.

"My familiars will find her. For now, we have to disable this Servant," Caster said as Assassin blocked a falling blade, deflecting it and cutting the head of the thief.

She jumped over a horizontal swing, kicking the thief right in the face before flipping back. Her movements grew sharp as she cut and sliced through her opponents with ease.

Assassin's eyes darted to either Caster or her Master before she stopped. A large flaming hand came from above and nearly grabbed her. The walls turned and the ground shifted, the world distorted a bit before Assassin found herself at the ground floor of the hospital, in a wide open space and not in a cramped hall.

There's no getting out of this one then?

She held her kunai and sword as she eyed her foe.

"Wait," the youth asked as he held his hand up, "In this world, we're invincible. You don't have to fight-"

Assassin didn't let him finish as she threw a kunai his way, only for a silver automaton to catch the blade. Caster had called upon more familiars as Assassin readied her blade.

Light dimmed in the surrounding area as Assassin primed herself to attack. A straight up fight, she could do this! A large soldier slammed his hammer down but Assassin cut his head off as she jumped over him. Throwing a kunai, it landed on the face of a man before she stabbed him straight into the neck, pulling her sword out to drive it into the heart of another.

She ripped it through the man's torso and darted towards Assassin.

Water gathered above Caster as two mermaids swam in the air, blasting a pillar of water towards the Servant. Sliding down, Assassin evaded the attack and threw paper bombs which covered the area in thick smoke.

Caster's Master raised his hand and dispelled the smoke with a gust of wind. Caster looked up to see a snake dive down towards her, calling upon her familiars to skewer it on all sides.

She felt a chill behind her back, forcing her to turn in place as Assassin slashed. The blade sang and blood danced in the air.

Luke Myers, Master of Caster put himself between the sword and his servant. The cut was shallow as Caster showered Assassin with a ray of pure sunlight, forcing the Servant back.

The Master bled but the cut wasn't deep enough to kill. Assassin found it odd she hadn't sustained any damage but...

A rune glowed on her bicep.

She smiled. That man just did whatever he wanted, didn't he?

It was now the kill!

However just before she reached Caster, a shadow appeared. A man with a black mantle and a white mask appeared, his sickle being vaguely familiar.

Assassin jumped to catch his blade, stopping him fro cutting her and the Servant Master duo beneath her. He was trying to kill them all at once!

"Oh? Sharp reflexes," the Servant mused before he swung Assassin in the air and sent her flying.

She turned in mid air and landed on the ground.

"Where have you been hiding all this time?" The masked man asked as he held his scythe. Assassin kept silent as she narrowed her gaze.

This was... A New Servant? She took out a kunai and threw it at him before charging straight at him. The Servant swatted aside the projectile and engaged Assassin in melee.

Sparks and violent swings tore through the air, she blocked and weave through every attack, taking care not to get nicked even once. Assassin sidestepped an overhead and stepped on it, thrusting her blade towards the Servant and tensing upon her sword being caught.

She was pulled close to that haunting mask.

A rune appeared between the two of them and pushed them apart, applying gravity to their bodies and splitting them up. Assassin flipped back and landed on her feet while the Servant slid as he held his weapon.

Caster used this chance to escape alongside her injured Master, slipping away on a flying carpet. The Servant moved to catch them but Assassin three out a kunai to intercept him.

He swatted it aside and turned towards Assassin.

.....
....
...

You hid behind a corner by the Hospital's entrance and watched Caster escape. Assassin had scored a hit then but was stopped by this new Servant. Judging from every single one you've seen, this one could only be Rider but his appearance differed from the armored description you were given before.

Shape shifting? Or just a magical disguise? Which one was the real one?

"I'm right here. Sorry for the wait," you told her as you leaned against the wall.

"And the Grail?" Assassin asked in alarm.

"I left her outside. She should be safe for now," you replied as you tried thinking fast, "Assassin, this guy..."

"Yes. Give me your orders," Assassin declared as she held up her sword.

Shades
​

[] Order Assassin to move past this Servant and chase down Caster. If you go get her now, there will be one less Servant to worry about.
[] It was time to retreat. Have Assassin come up with a stall tactic as the two of you withdraw with the Grail, you can't have this Servant chase the two of you so you need to deter him.
[] Step out and use your Command Seal, have Assassin use her Noble Phantasm to slay this Servant here and now. Even if his appearance changed, an enemy Servant needed to go.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] It was time to retreat. Have Assassin come up with a stall tactic as the two of you withdraw with the Grail, you can't have this Servant chase the two of you so you need to deter him.

"I'll support you in your retreat. Open him up and we'll pin him down long enough to leave. Let's do it in 30 seconds," you told her as you held your cane hard.

This feeling was different. It was different from all the fights you had till now. A new emotion budded inside you as you felt your blood pump hard. Sweat slid down your cheek as you let out a breath.

Further ahead, Assassin moved.

Kicking off the ground, she darted towards the Servant Rider. He held his sickle and blocked her first blow, turning to cut her apart as she dodged to the side. Assassin jumped and flipped to throw several kunai at the man.

He swept the air with his scythe and knocked them aside, kicking off the ground to chase her. Placing two fingers before her body, Assassin unleashed an explosive fireball at Rider, forcing the other Servant to cut through and swing twice.

Assassin blocked and was forced to crash downwards. Stone split beneath Assassin as she drove her feet down. Rocks and debris flew upwards and she struck them with her feet to launch at her foe.

Rider cut through them as Assassin led him towards her.

"You can't run," Rider declared as he sped up.

Assassin blocked his strike and clashed with his blows. She stood steadfast as she expertly broke his guard, surprising even Rider himself.

This was your chance. Assassin moved in for a fatal blow but Rider dashed back. You created a rune from a distance, utilizing your magical energy to have it activate.

Gravity pulled down in Rider as he was left open to Assassin slamming her foot into his abdomen, sending him flying into a pillar. You cast a decay curse and forced the pillar to crumble on top of the Servant before you and Assassin looked at one another.

"Run!" You barked as you reinforced your bum leg to work as you ran to the outside.

Assassin kept up with you and hoped that Rider was taking his time. However just as the two of you were getting out, the world began to fall apart. The grand hybrid of castle and hospital began to fade as the World rejected the presence of the fictional one.

The sandy city soon turned into a parking lot filled with cars and open spaces. You ran and immediately found the young girl you left behind. Now it was really time to go!

"Hold up!" You barked as you ran and picked up the sleeping girl using levitation and your lone arm.

It's moments like this that you can't help but hope your negative thoughts reached a certain Cheese Girl. You hoped that Scathach was kicking her ass for all the trouble you have of not having an arm!

Eventually, the Reality Marble shattered and you were back in the real world. But this only left you exposed as you turned to see Rider walking out of the building.

You kept running just as Rider jumped to catch up to you. Assassin moved in to catch his blade and the two Servants were locked in battle once more.

"Leaving so soon?" Rider asked as he and Assassin bounced off one another.

Assassin flipped and threw her kunai and shuriken, forcing Rider to dodge until she revealed the thin wires attached to them. She then yanked back her blades and pulled them towards Rider, forcing him to jump in the air.

The projectiles were maneuvered by Assassin to strike several cars instead of hitting near you.

Rider landed on the ground and held his sickle, "Not bad. How many tricks can you do?"

"Enough to get you eventually," Assassin replied as she bared her sword. She glanced at you, "My Lord, go! I'll hold him back!"

"Got it," you breathed as you moved.

Rider tried to intercept you but Assassin blocked his path with a wall of fire. Rider stopped and turned to look at her as the Shinobi stood in the light of the flames.

You moved out of the barrier and grit your teeth. Carrying this girl with all you had, you fought through the growing pain of your leg and the overuse you were putting your circuits through. Not only that but Assassin fighting was also depleting your prana but not at the rate you needed to be worried about.

So you ran with the Grail in your arms, pushing your body to the limit as you ended up finding yourself being met by someone down the road. Manaka stood with a smile before you and held out her hand.

"Let's go home, Hans," she said in that same pleasant voice she always directed towards you.

.....
....
...

Assassin knocked Rider's scythe into the air and the two of them moved to cut each other down. One strike. That was all she needed! All she needed was to aim for his neck!

However before she could land it, the Scythe's blade drew close. She ended up smashing against a sword, sparks flying as she had her eyes widen.

"That's enough out of the two of you," Berserker said as he caught you and Rider at the same time, "Why don't you both relax."

Berserker shifted his weight and flung Rider away. The masked man spun in the air and landed on nothing but air, stopping his fall and began levitating... No, it was as if air itself solidified beneath his feet.

Assassin drew back and held her sword before Berserker glanced her way, swinging his sword. Assassin's eyes widened and she dodged his strike, only for him to give her a wink.

Right...

This battle was over. She blended with the darkness and vanished from sight.

Berserker glanced at the wraith above him, "You could have won if you pulled out all the stops. Isn't that what your class is about, pulling cheat after cheat to win?"

Rider looked down at the Hero beneath him. He let out a chuckle before jumping away, vanishing from sight. Berserker lowered his swords then with a sigh.

"Guess it's our win, huh," he murmured as he looked up the sky. He felt a chill run down his spine, making his blood immediately boil.

His Master sure was something...

.....
....
...

Rider landed in an alleyway before taking off his mask. He let out a breath as he leaned against the wall and looked up.

"Things just aren't going the way we planned. What do you think, Ophelia?" Rider chuckled as he took off his mask.

"It's getting complicated. I'll see what I can do," the woman named Ophelia said as she looked at her Command Seals, "We'll have to try harder next time."

"I would tell you to relax but this is a War," Rider said as he put his mask back on and walked to his Master's side, "Indeed. There are a lot of opportunities in the future."

.....
....
...

It was 2am and you were sitting out on your sofa with a bottle of whiskey and a shot glass. Sitting in front of you was Berserker with his own glass while the two of you sat in silence. You poured yourself a shot and downed it and swallowed hard.

You were exhausted.

"Hey," you said as you coughed.

"What?" Berserker glanced at you.

"Your Master's scary," you told him with a dry tone.

Berserker stared at you before downing his own drink before pouring himself another glass, "No shit, boy. No fucking shit."

Manaka was currently in the spare room in the current floor, enhancing the defensive charms and putting all sorts of traps to ward off invading Magi. You... Left it to her. Now that you were sufficiently buzzed, you thought about it. Manaka was all alone with that Grail... No, that little girl all by herself.

Assassin was standing nearby and was looking out the window. The tension from the previous battle hadn't left your group at all. Only Manaka seemed to be carefree.

You stared at your glass as the ice melted.

Captured Flag​

[] Maybe you should go check on Manaka after all. You didn't like the idea of leaving her with that Grail. You're drunk enough to be brave again.
[] Just keep drinking. You won this time. You deserved this. You should go get the better stuff for the occasion.
[] Go see the sleeping girl. Make sure you cleaned up after the messes Manaka would leave while working. You wanted to make sure that the girl was all right before you stop worrying.
[] Talk to... (Choose one)
-[] Assassin
-[] Berserker

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Go see the sleeping girl. Make sure you cleaned up after the messes Manaka would leave while working. You wanted to make sure that the girl was all right before you stop worrying.

Setting down your glass, you figured you had enough for tonight. You had work to do in the morning. Berserker glanced at you with a raised eyebrow before raising his own glass.

"Going already?" He asked you.

"Yeah. You can finish it by yourself. My treat," you said as you took your cane and got up, "See you in the morning."

"Gotcha. But you mind if I break open a couple more?" Berserker asked with a curious look.

"Bring it up to Manaka if she'll let you," you told him as you limped away. Assassin vanished from her spot on the window and followed you in her Spirit form.

You figured you should go see the girl for now. You need to make sure your new guest didn't get up and panic when she opens her eyes. Limping forward, you then had a thought cross your mind.

"How are you?" You asked your Servant to your right.

"I'm fine, Master. No need to worry," Assassin assured you with a calm tone, "All we have to do now is secure the Grail and defend her from the other Masters."

"Well I was more curious as to how you were feeling. But you're not incorrect in your assessment," you told her with a small smile, "You were... Pretty impressive back there."

Assassin was quiet. You wondered what face she was making now. It was probably a funny one, for sure.

That was until you heard her speak up.

"Thank you..." Assassin replied in what seemed to be an embarassed tone. You raised your eyebrows in surprise at that. Well... You didn't expect that reaction.

You stepped out the doors and entered the main hall to make your way down it. You eventually came upon a door as Assassin stopped behind you. Manaka's traces was definitely around here, she must have left awhile ago. That was pretty scary actually...

You knocked twice on the door before opening it. The girl slept peacefully as you noticed the lingering wards that had been placed in the room. You raised an eyebrow at the design of the room, you didn't put these decorations here. There were stuffed animals and lightly colored wallpaper.

Giant bears and bunnies sat against the wall and an overall girly atmosphere lingered. You were quite surprised. Assassin took down her Spirit form and walked to a stuff animal to pick it up.

"These are magical constructs. Not on par with Caster's but you could definitely identify their properties," Assassin said as she held up the bear half her size.

You knelt down and picked up a stuffed snake with a noodly tongue stinging out.

"Here, why don't you have this?" You told her as she set down the bear and held the stuffed snake. It was far and dark in color but it was still a snake.

Chiyome held it in her arm before hugging it.

"Soft..." Assassin murmured warmly.

"You do that, buddy," you chuckled as you walked to the bed where the girl was sleeping. Eventually you came to a halt as you lifted the peaceful sleep the girl was under with a wave of your cane.

She should be up in a few minutes. A few physicians from your employees had looked over her for injuries or curses. Other than the Protective Enchantments that came with being the Holy Grail, the girl was otherwise just a normal 8 year old child.

It left you with a bad feeling knowing that someone so young was involved in this war. But then again, your sister had been in her early teens when she fought in that war. Magi were willing to do some really atrocious things for what they want.

Well... You weren't any different at a certain degree.

You looked down at the girl as she slowly stirred from her sleep. Her eyes slowly opened and they were a hint of power in them, reminiscent of whenever Manaka threw her weight around but the flow from her eyes was warm and dull.

She stared at the ceiling before looking to the side. Her eyes traveled down to the blanket on top of her before she finally met your gaze.

There was no fear in her eyes, just quiet resignation. You didn't like that look on her.

"Are you... Another Master?" The girl asked in a quiet voice.

"Yes. We transported you here after the battles have concluded within Caster's Reality Marble," you explained as you leaned on your cane, "My name is Hans Derrinsmith, Master of Assassin. You'll be safe here for now."

The girl blinked before replying, "I was told the same back then. But can you really manage it?"

That blank stare, it seemed like she was looking past you and staring straight into your soul. You stood your ground though and answered her.

"That remains to be seen. What's your name?" You asked her with a friendly tone.

The girl lowered her head, "Miyu. Sakatsuki... Miyu. I was tasked with being made as the Holy Grail for this War. I am the one to judge those who would be worthy of my life."

That caught you off guard. What did she mean by that?

"Your life?" You asked with a frown.

"Yes. To grant a wish, it would take my power as a Child of the Gods and the magical energy of Heroic Spirits to grant a miracle upon this world," the girl continued as she looked at her hands, "Power, wealth, fame or glory... It is what sets this War apart from the others. My miracle is legitimate..."

She then raised her head to meet your gaze.

"However temporary, I will judge you during my stay. Until the last Servant is struck down, I will judge you and decide if you're worthy," Miyu declared in a soft voice.

Grail Keeper
​

[] "A miracle. Can you really say that if it means losing your life in the process? Sounds like a curse to me."
[] "That's a big weight for such a small girl. And you're fine with this arrangement? To grant miracles and die?"
[] "That's... Fucked up."
[] Write in...

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] "That's a big weight for such a small girl. And you're fine with this arrangement? To grant miracles and die?"

She was serious.

There was no hesitation of doubt in her words, she was truly serious about this duty of hers. She spoke with conviction, something you didn't expect from a child of her age. She may look like this but her words held a certain weight to them that didn't sound absurd coming from a girl like her.

"That's a big weight for such a small girl," you noted with a narrowed look, "And you're fine with this arrangement? To grant miracles and die?"

"Indeed. To grant a beautiful wish is all I want. To do something... Good. And so I will judge those that will keep me," Miyu said as she looked at her small hands, "That was the purpose behind this war. A beautiful wish born from the glorious battles of legendary heroes."

"Aren't you scared? Of dying?" You asked her with a frown.

The girl remained silent and simply shook her head, "No. But I understand that it's something to be feared. Caster and Mr. Luke both seek to overcome it for their ends. I didn't understand them though, because it has to happen eventually, doesn't it?"

You leaned on your cane and nodded with a grim look, "I suppose so. But struggling against it, fighting it... It's what makes us human."

"But I'm the Holy Grail. A Child of the Gods. I'm not like normal humans," Miyu said as she looked down.

You cracked a smile as you replied, "Well, we'll see about that now, hm?"

Miyu raised her head in response with a confused look, "What do you mean, Mister?"

"I'm saying you're just a kid. Holy Grail or a Child of God, you still don't know a lot of things. You haven't lived a full life to stand by your worldview. You're like 8," you told her with a dry tone as you looked at her.

"I am the Holy Grail," Miyu said with a cross expression, "My duty is to judge your worth."

"And I think you're just a sassy lost child," you admitted with a nod.

Miyu frowned at you, a great departure from her stoic expression.

"I think you just haven't been given the chance to think for yourself. To me, it feels less like you're telling me your convictions and that you're repeating someone else's words," you said as you raised an eyebrow. You smiled at her and said,"So you can still change your mind."

"Is that what you believe?" Miyu questioned you as her eyes finally met yours.

"You still have a lot of growing up to do. Don't write yourself off just yet, little girl," you said as you opened the door, "Who knows, you might have your own thoughts on the matter."

"You're a strange Magus," Miyu noted with a tilt of her head.

"Maybe. Still, take is a challenge. Maybe by the end of this war, you'll see things differently," you said as you waved and walked out.

Assassin bowed politely before closing the door. You began walking back to your suite. Assassin caught up with you and walked by your side.

"Was... That wise?" Assassin murmured as she glanced at you.

"I was just trying to lighten her up," you said as you chuckled, "She's really trying the tough front, huh?"

Assassin fell silent for a moment before speaking, "What do you make of her?"

You kept moving before sighing out loud, "Once upon a time, a noble family produced a prodigy. A genius of such caliber that they put their hopes upon that child. Enough that when she died, they sought to create clones of her just to grasp the lost potential that faded with her death. It annoys me, Assassin. It makes my blood boil hearing these stories."

Assassin stopped and asked, "Your sister?"

You slowed down and looked back at her, "Magi are assholes. Especially when you view them through the eyes of the mundane man. I was the normal one. I was the elder brother but they cultivated the younger sister due to her superior circuits and genius skill. If I wasn't so useless, I could have spared my little sister the training she went through. If I had the guile and circuits, I could have protected her. Kids like that, Assassin? They don't deserve what they go through."

"But you need her. If you want your wish to come through, you must use her," Assassin pointed out with calm tone. She rubbed her arm and looked aside, "It is cruel to subject her to such a fate, but in the end..."

"I know. It's just another thing I'm going to carry on my back," you said as you faced towards your room, "I'm no different from my parents or my grandfather. Just another Magus with the ends justifying the means."

You shook your head and walked forward. Each step was heavy as you began to think. Who would set up such a thing? And why? You needed answers and getting them while you could should be your top priority.

You had three days until Miyu broadcasts her position to the other Masters again... You needed to focus on one thing during this time.

The Guest​

[] Focus on shoring up defenses for possible attacks from the other Servants. You need a stronghold to keep them out while keeping Miyu under your care. You'll start figuring things out in the morning.
[] You need to find out more about Miyu and her involvement in the war. You suppose it's high time you paid a visit to the church. If there's anyone who has answers, it's them.
[] Something has to be done about that broadcast and there's only so much you could do by yourself. You'll have to go talk with Manaka in length, she's the better Mage between the two of you but... She's pretty hard to handle already.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] You need to find out more about Miyu and her involvement in the war. You suppose it's high time you paid a visit to the church. If there's anyone who has answers, it's them.

The following morning came without trouble. Your hideout was still secure and you had Manaka watching over Miyu. Berserker was with them so you could at least be relaxed to that they would be fine. You did make sure to speak with Manaka on possibly kidnapping Miyu right beneath your nose but she simply laughed with her bell-like voice.

You were just being cautious.

Manaka simply told you that it wouldn't benefit her defending Miyu by herself for extended periods of time. You were her friend after all so she still had some uses for you. While that reassured you, you didn't miss out on her implications. You supposed that was just how she was.

Today it was just you and Assassin making your way through the city. The hideout was secured with your employees doing guard duty and Manaka being the final line of defense. You had some freedom to do as you pleased today and you were going to make the most of it.

Namely visiting the church since participating in this war.

However what you found there was a little bit more intimidating than you expected. You had a cursory glance at the Church a few days ago before you were unceremoniously kicked out but now that you were here, the feel was a little more different.

You walked in with Assassin in her Spirit form, taking care not to gather much attention from the nearby churchgoers. You limped forward and stood before the aisle leading to the altar. Even with the holidays, there were few people present in the church.

"It would seem that you have been late in your visit to this sacred place. But do not suffer guilt for I'm sure God forgives your tardiness," a woman's voice spoke from your side.

You turned with a raised eyebrow and found a nun looking back at you. She was dressed in what could be described as a normal attire for church women, black and white dresses minus the headdress.

Her snow white hair was familiar to you while her golden eyes eyed you with a sharp look.

"Glory be to the Lord then," you replied with an unsure tone but the nun didn't seem too bothered by that, "Welcome to the Lord's home. His home will be yours too should misfortune befall you. In trying times, our doors will be open to the fallen."

"Right. Sorry for not introducing myself. I'm Hans Derrinsmith and I have a few questions... I hope you're willing to humor me... In private?" You asked with a raised eyebrow.

The nun stared at you before gesturing to the side, "The confession booth is free. Please step inside."

You did as you were told and stepped inside the booth. The nun did the same and you were now inside a cramped room all by yours-

Assassin's presence never left you. She wasn't outside of the booth but she was inside it with you. No wonder it felt more cramped. You frowned at her general direction as a voice entered your mind.

"It's for your own protection," Assassin said.

You were thankful she was in spirit form or you wouldn't be able to breathe.

"Now. You're late in introducing yourself. Not even an envoy or messenger, do you think us as a joke, Magus?" The Nun said on the other side of the partition, "Did you enjoy making us think there were only six Masters and seven Servants? If this war falls inside a ditch, we would need names to land the proper blame."

You blinked before frowning, her tone sure changed.

"Apologies, Sister. I was preoccupied with the war," you told her with a grimace, "Risking exposure wouldn't do me favors."

"Excuses... In any case, you're here now. I don't suppose you wish to be briefed with the rules of this War four days into the conflict?" The nun asked with a bored tone, "Or perhaps we could skip that entirely and make better use of our time."

"I would be honoured to know your name first, Sister. It is only basic courtesy," you told her with a small smile.

"Caren. Caren Hortensia... I will be the Administrator for this War in the absence of the Priest that had abandoned his post," Caren introduced herself, "Because no doubt, this conflict will be so bad as to need my immediate presence rather than leaving it to you Magi."

"You sound like you hate your job," you noted with a raised eyebrow.

"Hate it? Far from it, Magus. I love my job so much that I would be sitting in this box wasting time with you," Caren replied with a dry tone.

You raised your eyebrows before sighing, "Right. To the point then. Who's the architect of this mess?"

"If you're looking for the ones responsible for conducting this ritual, you would look no further than the Luctworth Doll acting as that Magus Family's representative and the Sakatsuki household providing a substitute for the Grail," Caren answered easily enough as she looked at her fingernails, "The two Families have come together and requested the assistance of the Church for this Holy Grail War. It was approved and here we are. Next question."

You blinked before you glanced up at Assassin where she could be standing in her Spirit form. You were both having the same looks at how easy this was.

"Right... Next question," you murmured with an uncertain tone.

Admin
​

[] Ask about the Sakatsuki household... What led them to joining this war?
[] Ask about the Luctworth Family, what are their end goals in this War?
[] Ask for any more hidden rules that you still don't know of in this War.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Ask about the Sakatsuki household... What led them to joining this war?

"Tell me about the Sakatsuki household. What led them to joining this War?" You asked as you leaned back in your seat.

"Oh that? I thought you would be asking more pointed questions. In any case, what the Church knows is that they've struck a deal with the Luctworth and a third party in making this war. Most probably for protection purposes given the capabilities of their bloodline," Caren explained from the other side of the booth, "Can you imagine? A vessel capable of granting miracles in this day and age. No doubt Magi would be all over a family like that. The elders saw this threat and moved to gain the favor of a Noble Family."

"So they're doing it to protect themselves? By offering up their children as sacrifices?" You murmured with a frown.

"I suppose you could look at it that way. The Luctworth representative, that Doll, she's tasked to winning the War for them. Who knows, maybe she's given the mission to perform a wish to benefit that household," Caren offered with a shrug. She then cleared her throat and said, "Their reasons seem to one of desperation instead of malice and the Luctworth have taken the role of Samaritans to help them."

Bullshit. You knew what that family was like. There's no way they wouldn't capitalize on this tool. You fought them enough times and you lived with them at a young age.

You weren't stupid enough to accept that they did this out of goodwill. Given the tone of her voice, it would seem like Caren had the same idea too.

"I don't know why you're looking for these answers, but you'd best be careful. You may just end up losing sight of your goal," Caren said with a bored tone.

"I just needed answers and this should be enough," you replied as you looked down with a grim look, "Still, you said there was a third party in the creation of this war. Can you tell me anything about that?"

"Oh," Caren murmured as she tapped her cheek, "Unfortunately I don't. But it seemed that person was the one who provided the means of turning the Grail into what it is now."

"Someone who could have stolen the Einzbern's secret?" You blinked in surprise.

"There's a rumor going on that all these Petty Wars... These Subcategory Wars were created by one person. If you have the connections and means, that person will show up to provide you a Grail. The church is investigating this at length but we're observing for now," Caren replied as she crossed her arms, "Some undying pests are in need for exorcisms, I'd say."

You don't know how to take that but it seems that the church has its hands full as well. Still, the Sakatsuki family have it rough relying on your family for protection, going as far to use the Holy Grail Ritual for their end.

Whatever the Luctworths did, they managed to convince the Sakatsuki that this was a viable path to ensure their protection. It does make sense though, if the Luctworth represent wishes for the protection of the Sakatsuki family, it would be a tempting thing for them to gamble on. What better protection to have than one granted by a miracle?

"Thank you for your time," you told her as the door opened courtesy of Assassin leaving first, "I'll be keeping your words in mind."

"Try not to trip and fall," Caren said as she too stood up. She stepped out of the booth and shut it behind her as you did the same, "One thing however, Mr. Derrinsmith."

"What is it?" You asked with a raised eyebrow.

Caren stared at you with the same stony look on her face before she raised her arm, "Rejoice, good sir. You'll be able to grasp your wish at the end of this tedious path. Should you become weary, the Church's doors are always open to provide you with respite."

You had a bad feeling about that.

"I'll pass. Thank you again, Sister," you said with a nod before you turned away. The nun stared at you for a second before she walked off.

You got what you needed. You wondered if Miyu was aware of this arrangement. If this war goes well for the family, then they would only have to give up Miyu herself and acquiring protection from the wish. It sounds like a reason they could convince a child with but that depends on whether the Luctworth will go along with it.

You were deep in thought but you were quickly taken out of them as you stepped out of the church. Your Command Seals stung and you felt Assassin stir nearby.

"Derrinsmith?" A voice called out nearby, making you look up. Oh boy...

You were greeted by the sight of a woman with long brown hair dressed in a sharp suit. An eyepatch covered her eye as she gave you a smile before stopping before you.

Your command seals stung.

"Fancy meeting you here. I never took you for being a religious person, Miss Phamrsolone," you replied with a polite nod.

The woman shook her head and said, "I had business with the staff inside. What about you?"

"How strange. I was on business too for a moment," you replied as you smiled right back, "It's nice to see a familiar face though. Are you on leave from the Clocktower?"

"Yes. I believe that a vacation is needed once in awhile," Miss Phamrsolone replied as she crossed her arms.

"Funny. I never took you to be the type," you noted with a raised eyebrow.

"Well, we were only classmates for one class after all. Would you like to have some coffee? My treat if you're willing to wait," The woman said with a friendly nod.

Rejoice​

[] Accept
[] Decline
[] Order Assassin to kill her.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] Accept

"Sure. I'll accept," you replied with a nod.

The woman cracked a smile and turned away as you stayed where you were. The stinging at the back of your hand was enough of a red flag for you. Not only that but if she was a Master, she would have pegged you as one as well.

Assassin echoed in your mind while watching Miss Phamrsolone walk away.

"Is this wise?" Assassin asked quietly.

"Call it a tactical move," you coughed as you leaned on your cane. You hoped this would be a good use of your time.

.....
....
...

Starbucks. It was hip and trendy with the kids. You're fairly certain that a specific type of person like that Cheese would fit here than you would. Alas, she's getting her ass handed to her by a certain Queen of the Land of the Shadows. Whenever you felt down, you always thought about how you weren't in that situation.

But what you didn't expect was for the lady before you to bring you here. She may be a Clocktower resident but she wasn't that familiar with the outside world beyond what Magi oversaw. You wondered if she was going to be all right.

Ophelia Phamrsolone, a top student of the Spiritual Evocation department. You heard rumors that she was in talks with the late Marisbury Animusphere to participate in a secret project but it didn't go through once the Animusphere Lord passed away. This left her to continue her studies as well as research into opening a path to the Root.

A typical Magus born and bred from the culture and traditions that had gone on for thousands of years.

But she was special though in the way that most Magi are not. Namely, the Mystic Eye she kept hidden behind her eyepatch.

The two of you were classmates for a short bit before you departed to fight in the Grail War at New Rimeland.

"So when did you come back here in England?" Ophelia asked as she took a sip of her coffee, "It's been so long since I've last seen you."

"Well... I came back at February and just laid low. Mostly at the hospital," you explained with a nod.

"It seems like you had quite the adventure," Ophelia noted as she glanced at your arm.

"Quite. But that's only normal for people like us," you told her with a small smile. You raised your cane and tapped the ground, the air shimmering and encasing the two of you in an invisible bubble.

Ophelia also cracked a smile and said, "Well, I was about to do the honours but you were fast this time too. Welcome back to England, Hans."

"Nice to see you too, Ophelia," you replied with a polite tone, "I won't beat around the bush. What are you in this War for?"

Ophelia's eye twinkled as she gave her replied, "The Grail of course. Isn't that what most Magi are after when they fight in these battles?"

"For what purpose? It shouldn't even be of interest to normal Magi. It doesn't carry the weight or power of the Fuyuki Grail to grant access to the Root," you told her with a raised eyebrow.

"It might not. But it could show me another way there. Who knows..." Ophelia said as she met your gaze, "I'm not even certain myself but I suppose that I'm here to find out."

"What's that supposed to mean?" You asked with a frown.

"I was tasked with returning to my family with the Grail. It would bring honor to our household to win even a petty War and bring about numerous connections in which we can make use of," Ophelia said in a calm tone, "After years of toiling away at the clock tower this would be my final test."

"A test... By your family?" You guessed with a raised eyebrow.

"You know how it is," Ophelia chuckled as she sipped her coffee.

"I do. Or... Perhaps not. You're well aware of how my family is currently trying to kill me," you said with a wan smile.

Ophelia gave you a look and said, "That's only because of your defiance. Clearly while you vanished, you were involved in quite the adventure and knowing your history as a pursuer of Subcategory Wars, it's not all too hard to guess what you've done."

"I'm not asking for a lecture-" you began but Ophelia cut you off.

"You're a talented man, Mr. Derrinsmith. And if you would allow it, the Phamrsolone family will grant you asylum and territory if you work with us. Don't waste your life playing with fire and angering the Sculptors of the Luctworth," Ophelia said as she gave you a hard look, "You can better use your talents elsewhere. You've proven that by standing up to the Sculptors and their Hunters while amassing strength of your own. Any Magus family with half a brain would see your worth."

You stared at her with wide eyes. Well, you didn't expect this at all...

"A recruitment pitch. Really?" You blinked as you stared at her.

"I wasn't only tasked with taking the Grail. But also keeping tabs on valuable people. If you were to die in this conflict then that's one less talented person in this world... You have the insight of Lord El-Melloi and the circuits of a noble lineage. Your modern perspective on Magecraft will be a boon in the future," Ophelia said as she gave you a serious look.

"Okay, I might be talented but comparing me to the Big London Star is a bit too much. At best, I'm a second rate Magus," you told her with a low chuckle.

"And yet you evaded an incensed Noble family and won a handful of Grail Wars," Ophelia said as she stood up and leaned on the table to loom over you, "You're a valuable man, Hans. Like it or not."

"I can slit her throat form here," Assassin whispered in your ear.

"Assassin no. Don't," you internally echoed back as you rubbed your forehead. You noticed her sitting down again as you sighed, "So... You aim for the Grail while also recruiting people for your family, huh? That's quite the job. So the bottom line is... That you want me to bow out of the War and come on over to your side?"

"I won't pretend that those are not a part of it," Ophelia said in a tempered tone.

"Right then. Fuck no," you replied as you stood up.

You popped the bubble as you grabbed your cane. Ophelia stood up in surprise, her own chair scraping back.

"Hans!" She called for you.

"Unfortunately Lady Phamrsolone, I have my own goals in this war," you said as you glanced at her, "I cannot hope to play lackey to you when I have better things to do. We'll just see each other in the battlefield-"

"You can't bring her back, Hans. You know this better than anyone else. Not even completing this task you've punished yourself with will bring her back. Once the body is destroyed, the soul disperses to Akasha. You can't bring back your sister, not even with your winnings," Ophelia said with a cold tone, "Even if you did, it'll be just an imitation. It will not truly be the person you seek."

You tightened your grip on your cane.

A spark lit a fire in your stomach and you felt a spike in magical energy in the air. Ophelia must have noticed it but you schooled your expression.

A Talk
​

[] "That's true. But copy or no, I still want to say sorry. That's what I'm fighting for. It's my selfish wish and if I get killed achieving it then so be it."
[] "You better watch your back, Lady Phamrsolone. You're forgetting who you're speaking to."
[] "This task is as futile as Magi searching for their way to the Root. And so I ask you, Ophelia, what difference does our exercise in futility have?"
[] Write in...
===========
Note: My arm hurts from typing. There may or may not be an update tomorrow. I'll announce it.

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] "That's true. But copy or no, I still want to say sorry. That's what I'm fighting for. It's my selfish wish and if I get killed achieving it then so be it."

You squeezed your cane hard before you deigned to face Ophelia with a cold look. You met her gaze and looked her in the eye as you spoke to her, every word ringing and making her wince.

"That's true. But copy of no, I still want to say sorry. That's what I'm fighting for," you declared as you watched her step back, "It's my selfish wish and if I get killed achieving it then so be it. What of you, Lady Phamrsolone? Are you the type of Magus willing to die for your wish?"

"I..." Ophelia hesitated as she clenched her hands.

"If not, then you have no place in this war. For your sake, you would do well to reconsider your position. I'm not saying this as a friend but as a Magus. You don't belong here," you told her as you turned your back on her and walked away.

Someone from Spiritual Evocation would know better that your dream was futile. There was no one more qualified than Ophelia to dissuade you of your wish. But you've already done so much, you needed to see this through. Not just for your sister but for the people you've wronged and slain.

You have fought seven Wars with each one chipping away at your body and soul. Seven wars of burden on your shoulders. The least you could do was reach the end of this journey of yours. You weren't stopping for anything, it wasn't the first time someone sought to bring you down.

You just kept walking, your footsteps growing heavy as you moved.

.....
....
...

Once you were sure you weren't being followed you returned back to your hideout. You sat in the living room of your suite as you tried gathering your thoughts and thinking up of ways to defend against the inevitable attack on this place.

You were in deep enough thought that you didn't notice someone walk by.

"You look rather rough, Hans," a voice spoke up, making you turn to see Manaka sit down on the nearby armchair.

You raised an eyebrow at her appearance, "What the heck."

Manaka smiled and gestured to her hair. It was pale blonde now instead of hazel colored and her eyes were bright blue as well.

"What do you think?" She asked you with a raised eyebrow.

"That wasn't like that last night," you admitted with a surprised look.

"I know! I just woke up this morning to find that my body is changing," Manaka said as she held her cheeks.

"That's certainly not normal. Not by any stretch at all," you admitted as you stared at her, "Is it because if your continued influence over that body that it's changing."

"Quite possibly. It's either that the longer I stay in this form, the more it will change itself to suit me better until I get stuck in it. Or if I get pulled back to my world, I'll end up leaving a copy of my ego imprinted on this form," Manaka said as she played with her blonde hair, "Still, this body will never truly be me. It doesn't have my circuits after all."

"Then what will happen to the girl sleeping inside of you?" You asked her with a raised eyebrow.

"I don't know. One day she'll probably wake up with traces of my personality," Manaka said as she hummed and leaned her chin on her fist, "Well, isn't that interesting?"

"Right. Probably," you admitted with a shake of your head.

"Seems like you have a lot on your mind. Why don't you talk to me? Perhaps I could be of some help?" Manaka offered with that serene smile of hers.

You gave her a look before you asked, "Where's Berserker?"

"Oh? He's taken a liking to smoking at the roof. I dislike smelling his tobacco breath so I told him to do it where I can't see him. On that note, it would seem like Assassin isn't here either, hm?" Manaka pointed out as you felt an eerie chill fall down the room, "That means it's just the two of us alone."

"That's not creepy at all," you dryly stated as you moved in your seat to stay away from her.

"Is it?" Manaka blinked as she gave you a strange look, "Well, not as creepy as all the people clinging on to your back."

You felt your blood chill as you instinctively rubbed the back of your neck.

"Are you serious?" You blinked.

"Nope. I'm just kidding," Manaka said with a giggle, "Your expressions are rather refreshing. You're truly a strange Magus."

Feeling yourself relax a bit, you allowed yourself a sigh, "Right."

"Still, are you fine with this course of events? You have the Grail, all you need is to defend it. But are you truly just going to wait for the enemy to come to you?" Manaka asked as she sat in her seat, "Don't you find that a bit boring?"

"I'm being cautious. I don't have an unstoppable Servant to call upon," you told her with a shake of your head, "Assassin could only do so much."

"Well that is true. A shame, really," Manaka said as she leaned back on her seat.

You stared at her and asked, "What about you? How have you been entertaining yourself these days? I doubt that teasing me alone is getting you your fill of thrill."

Manaka blinked before holding her fingers into X's, "That's a secret."

"Oh come off it now," you sighed as you shook your head.

"Well since you've been a good friend so far, I was thinking of giving you a bit of support. It's a surprise so I can't share it now but it'll definitely spice up this little War of yours," Manaka said with a bright smile.

"Spice up, you say? Well, as long as it isn't anything dangerous," you told her as you scratched the back of your head.

"Nope, nope! You'll probably be able to fight the other Masters like WHA POW!" Manaka said with an exaggerated punch and kick.

You heard footsteps behind you and you turned to see Miyu walking into view in her pajamas. She gave the living room a look before finding you and Manaka nearby.

"Oh! It's the Holy Grail," Manaka said with a bright tone.

You spoke in turn and said, "Rare to see you out of your room."

Miyu blinked before a low rumbling came from her stomach. She held it and blushed deep red as her stoic face showed embarrassment.

"Ah. I guess it's about lunch time, huh?" Manaka said as she tapped her cheek, "Hm, why don't I make something for the two of you?"

.....
....
...

You were having coffee while you and Miyu sat on the counter while Manaka cooked. The smell of food drifted in the air and just made you feel your own hunger.

"You could have said something, you know?" You told Miyu as she waited patiently for her meal.

"I apologize. I was used to having food given to me," Miyu said as she hung her head.

What is she, some sort princess? You decided not to say that out loud and reply, "Well, from now on, why don't you speak up if you want something? No one's going to come and help you if you don't ask."

"I find that hypocritical of you to say, Hans," Manaka said as she finished making the omelette she was cooking, "Now, eat up! It should be similar to a five star restaurant's quality."

It certainly smelled good. You only hesitated because Manaka made it. You decided to ignore that voice behind your head as you and Miyu took a bite.

Now that you thought about it, Assassin did mention that Manaka helped her make your breakfast a couple days back. Having taken a bite, you were pretty impressed.

Miyu's eyes on the other hand lit up and she was already in her third bite.

"Well? How is it?" Manaka asked as she crossed her arms.

Lunch
​

[] "You have experience? It's pretty good all things considered."
[] "It's delicious but it feels like it lacks something. It's certainly not bad."
[] Just keep quiet. You don't want to inflate her ego. She's smug enough as it is.
[] Write in...

 

[AnonymousRabbit]

[] "You have experience? It's pretty good all things considered."

You took a bite out of your meal and chewed once more. The flavor was strong enough to stand out from the usual meals you had. You noted the intricate combination of spices that really seemed like it was pulled from a recipe book and recreated down to the very minute detail.

"You have experience?" You asked her as you chewed, "It's pretty good all things considered."

"I cooked a lot in my old world. I had someone to impress after all, I wouldn't dare feed bad food to that person," Manaka proudly said with a smug smile as she glanced at you, "Consider it an honor, you two."

"Whoopee doo," you cheered with a dry tone while eating some more.

"Was it an important person?" Miyu asked with a slight tilt of her head.

"Oh yes. A very important person," Manaka sighed while looking to the air with a dreamy look, "You'll understand it when you grow up."

"No, I think it's better if we explain," you said as you gave Manaka a look before turning to Miyu, "You see, that girl is in love."

Manaka turned to you with a frown, "Oh you, how cruel of you to destroy the image I was cultivating."

"You're going to confuse her if you keep that up," you argued with a shake of your head.

"Love?" Miyu asked with a confused look.

"Yes. It's when a person has romantic feelings for another," you explained as you held up your hand, "It's a rather human emotion that gives rise to many others. To cherish, to protect, and to care for something is to love it. Manaka over there is in love with her Prince Charming so much that she made good food."

"Prince Charming?" Miyu repeated with a frown.

"Calling him a Prince would be a gross understatement bordering on insult. But no, he's no prince. That man, valiant and kind, was a King," Manaka said as she rubbed her shoulder, "Words can't do justice describing his personage."

You glanced at Manaka and realized how bad she got it. You took another bite and tried finishing your meal while Manaka was distracted.

"What is your wish, Miss Manaka?" Miyu asked as she stared at the girl behind the counter.

Manaka met her gaze and for a moment, gold eyes stared back into serene blue. The two girls sharing a look for a moment before Manaka replied.

"Simple, Miss Holy Grail... To meet my King once more and grant his wish," Manaka explained as she twiddled her thumbs, "That much... I would do that much for him."

"The things we do for love," you sighed as you shook your head.

"Isn't it also because of love that you aim to win this War, Hans?" Manaka asked as glanced your way.

"Of course. For the participants of this battle, this Holy Grail War, if we're not fighting through desperation, greed or for glory then we fight for love," you said as you looked towards Miyu, "To fight we must have our reasons. It's through battle that we test our reasons against one another. In the past, that was enough to decide who was worthy of the Grail. Those who were weaker than the other fell and lost."

"Is that how you lost your arm?" Miyu asked you with a blank look.

"Yes. I fought another Master and they took my arm off. Hopefully I can avoid that fate during my battles here," you said as you shook your head.

"You still fight despite being at a disadvantage, why? Is it for your wish?" Miyu said as she turned to look at her meal.

"Yes. It's for my wish. It's something I find definitely worth fighting for," you replied as you sat at the counter by her side, "No matter what stood in my say."

You looked at Manaka then and she only smiled back in response. In the end, sooner or later, the two of you too would clash.

It just wasn't time yet and so this peace was permitted to stay.

.....
....
...

You opened your eyes as you found yourself lying on your desk. You grimaced as you found yourself etching runes on paper again and leaving them scattered all over the floor. You let out a breath and opened your drawer to take out a piece of candy.

Caramel.

You popped it into your mouth and let it melt into a sweet flavor which slowly woke you up. It was sweet, very sweet...

"Master," a voice echoed behind you, making you turn to see Assassin kneeling before you, "I've returned."

"So you have. Good day, Assassin," you replied as you managed a small smile.

"I hope you were well in my absence, my Lord. I have news to report now," Assassin said as she stood up.

"What is it?" You blinked in surprise.

"Lancer is active once more and I've sighted Caster's new lair within the city," Assassin said as she met your gaze, "I'm prepared to eliminate them at your command. Whichever you choose."

Temporary Peace
​

[] Have Assassin pay Lancer a visit and decide the viability of eliminating her from the war.
[] Have Assassin pay Caster a visit and decide the viability of eliminating her from the war.
[] Order Assassin to utilize her talents to the limit it could go and have her spy on Manaka, Berserker and Miyu before reporting back to you.
[] Order Assassin to relax and sit by your bed to rest. She's done enough work for the whole night already. You won't take no for an answer, you'll even make her some food.
[] Write in...