Karisviel von Einzbern enters the Holy Grail War convinced of her own perfection and accompanied by her sister Idasviel, a homunculus custom made with endless affection and a twisted understanding of love to best utilize the Heroic Spirit Brynhildr. Their goal is to use the omnipotent wish-granter to regain their family's lost magic and with it eternity. A miracle that'll allow Karisviel to save those dear to her from inevitably being parted from her by their own mortality.
Marsh Seran had come to Fuyuki hoping that he may get a chance to probe at the corpse of a miracle, he had not expected the miracle to come back to life. Frankly, he would have prefered the Grail to remain dead after the third war.
Retiring from a life of adventure to raise his daughter meant little, if his new home descended into chaos. No amount of spectacle could make up for that. At least he could hope that his humble little antique shop would remain unscathed. After all, these wars had such a reputation for being well-conducted duels between honorable magi that no bystanders would ever get involved in. Right.
Yet he was an opportunist by heart, almost as much as he was a collector. If the war was going to happen, Marsh could think of a way to benefit from it. One did not generally prepare for what they didn't expect; as such he wouldn't be surprised if some of the Masters to be lacked suitable catalysts. Not that the collection he gathered over the years was filled with the most powerful catalysts imaginable. What he had was simply better than nothing. Maybe that would be enough.
So far it hadn't gotten him a buyer.
Not that he would have gotten anywhere in life if he gave up that easily. Thus, when he closed his shop for lunchtime today, he went over his options again. The first people to turn to were of course the three great families.
The Tohsaka twins visited his shop every now and then, mostly in search for gemstones they could use for their magecraft. The service may have played a part in why they let some random mage stay on their land. Either way, it did give them a rapport somewhat more personal than one would have with a landlord.
As a result they at least rejected his offer in person.
Which was a shame, because he figured he had a decent chance with them. Their family had taken a pretty big hit after the servant they summoned in one of the substitute Grail Wars, that were spreading over the land, ended up backfiring on them rather badly. It hadn't utterly ruined them, but it certainly soured them from trying to participate in another war. Apparently they had a high quality catalyst in reserve regardless.
The Matous were next. What was left of them at least. Their patriarch had died in the defense of the grail against the nazies and from the looks of it, their family had been overly reliant on him. As a result they soon dwindled and all but died out as magi. Shortly afterwards they ended up being absorbed by another family.
The Edelfelts to be exact, who had been motivated more by a desire to spite the Tohsaka's than anything else. The injection of a strong bloodline certainly helped in reviving the Matous, but they had also very clearly been reduced to being only a branch family. Not something that comes to mind when calling them one of the three greats. They had one child,
[] Ayano Luana Matou
A daughter, that was in the same class as his own. Which was how he knew that she had a set of command seals. A rather rough girl, from what his daughter told him, but not necessarily unkind. She just did a bad job of suppressing the love for battle she inherited from her Edelfelt side.
Supposedly her parents pushed her into joining the Homurahara Academy's archery club in hopes that the discipline of kyūdō would help her keeping herself under control. It worked, when she wanted it to, which wasn't very often outside of practice. Although, the fact that she does behave there combined with a good amount of talent apparently earned her quite a fanclub amongst the archers.
So far, she awkwardly tried to dodge the topic of buying a catalyst, whenever she was approached about it. Weird, given her blunt personality, but least she hadn't outright rejected the offer, meaning he still had reason to hope.
The Einzberns he sent a request mostly for completion's sake. They were active enough in the substitute Grail Wars that he had no doubt they would be prepared for the true Holy Grail War. Still, leaving them out would do him no good.
In their case he was fairly certain that the lack of response equalled a rejection.
He couldn't help but let out a heavy sigh. Maybe he should have figured those three were lost causes, but that didn't stop him from being disappointed. Just then something knocked against his window. Looking up he saw a bird. That was glowing? And made from wire? It was holding a letter in its beak.
It took him a moment to process that he was looking at an Einzbern familiar. Huh. He was getting that response after all. He opened the window, took the letter and read it. All while pointedly ignoring that he was quite certain that nobody had moved into the Einzbern's local castle yet. It was better for his sanity.
Dear Mister Seran,
it has come to my attention that you have send a proposal to our family that old man-Acht decided to reject without so much as consulting me. A horrible misconduct on his part, as I am the pinnacle of the Einzbern craft and as such have been granted a brilliant mind unclouded by such things as arrogance or misplaced humility.
I'm sure that you can tell that this makes me the highest quality of Master and much more suited to handling decisions concerning my own Servant than a dusty old man like Acht. Using such superior judgement, I shall be without pride and admit that your offer was insufficient to meet the standards of the Einzbern family. Acht still should have consulted me about it first.
Regardless, I possess an amount of courtesy that such an old geezer could never hope to attain, letting me see that your offer still deserves to be acknowledged and meet with gratitude for its thoughtfulness. While I will not do business with you on this matter, I shall grace you with my presence once I arrive in Fuyuki and see if your store holds anything else that is of interest to me. (I hope browsing is just as enjoyable as receiving a letter. This has been a rather novel experience for me.)
Sincerely,
[] Karisviel von Einzbern
By the time he reached the bottom of the page, Marsh couldn't help himself but chuckle. That certainly turned his mood around. He wasn't sure if the girl actually assumed her letter was the height of formality, or if she just wanted the excuse to brag. At least he hoped she was still a girl, that kind of mindset would be worrying from an actual adult. Though her last line implied a level of isolation he'd rather not wish on a child.
Rather than risk getting distracted from his actual work, he moved on to the letters from his Clock Tower associates. This one was a bit more complicated. Officially, it appeared that the head of the Department of Botany, was chosen as a Master to represent them.
A bit of a reclusive fellow, which seemed fitting enough for an expert of one of the less glamorous fields of magecraft. He spent most of his time in a greenhouse that acted as his workshop, leaving it only when he had to interact with his students, none of which had complaints about his competence. His personality, however, had a more divisive reputation.
Marsh also had no real interest in him nor matching the resources of the Clock Tower.
However, as a result of him being a recluse, none of his informants had actually seen his Command Seals. In fact, despite being open about his status as a Master, he had started wearing gloves and similar clothing that could hide potential seals.
Around the same time, a student from the Department of Individual Fundamentals started being seen near him and his workshop near constantly. Now, a student sucking up to one of the Masters of the Holy Grail War wasn't strange in and of itself, but he barely interacted with his own students. A student from another department would need nothing close of a prodigy and... well…
[] Annabella Smith
was not what one would call a prodigy, or talented. Average maybe, if one was feeling generous, at least as far as her grades and lineage were concerned. She still managed to be the, to quote one of his correspondents, "white sheep covered in glitter" of her class on account of being a dense weirdo, that had somehow managed to get stuck with middle school syndrome despite already being a real life magus.
Pretending to have a Mystic Eye of Death Perception hidden under an eyepatch did not get you taken seriously anywhere, much less at the Clock Tower. An upbeat and helpful personality technically kept her from being a complete social outcast, but, given the cutthroat nature of magi society, it was solely as a gofer and not anything resembling friendship.
Yeah, there was a good reason why he settled down somewhat removed from magi society.
Now, while his catalysts didn't quite match what the Mage Association could prepare, the decrease in quality might be worth distancing herself from the control of the association. It certainly would be, if she was even remotely as sick of their games as he'd been at her age. If he ended up dealing with her, he might even come out of having done a good thing.
Though granted, he was holding out on the girl. He did own one potential catalyst that he was rather confident in, when it came to matching quality with a department head. He also knew exactly who he was going to offer it to.
[] Oliver Steube
A freelancing magus that had helped him out quite a couple of times when he got himself into trouble. Now, that had all been business, so he didn't owe him anything concrete, but he was grateful enough for the help regardless that he decided to give him first pick on buying the goods. Reliable business relations are a thing to be nurtured after all.
Oliver getting chosen by the Grail had come as somewhat of a surprise to both of them though. He wasn't the type to strive after some great goal like ending world hunger and generally seemed content with just drifting around from one contract to another. Marsh wondered if it was connected to why he cut ties with her family, but he had predictably refused to comment in their correspondence. Fair enough, seeing how it was none of his business.
Whatever the Grail's reason was, Oliver was the last Master he'd feel the need to worry about. There were after all only one or two other Master left, at this rate, he'd be the only one with any actual combat experience.
On which note, he went over his remaining correspondences and send out some more inquiries to suspected Masters. Most of them were bound to go to completely unrelated magi by default, but it was worth it for the off-chance of reaching an actual Master. At least there currently weren't any preparations for a substitute Grail War going on, so he didn't need to worry about getting a false negative.
He was pulled out of his concentration by the sound of the front door being unlocked. A quick glance at the grandfather clock standing in the corner of his study showed that it was indeed about time to open his shop again. He might as well distract himself with some work while he waited for fresh responses. It's not like he'd suddenly find a Master just by sitting around.
He went to the store at the front of his house and was greeted by the usual sight of his daughter and her friend and his part-time assistant,
[] Naoki Watanabe
Given that there was actual magecraft going in and out of his shop every now and then, he had been concerned about letting the boy work here. It was his daughter that had insisted on giving him the job anyway, because "it's gonna be fiiiine." And so far it had been. He's a hard worker and popular enough with the customers that he repeatedly felt the urge to throw him out, just to make sure he stayed away from his daughter.
Papa bear tendencies aside, it was a shame the boy wasn't a magus. Naoki had the kind of curiosity that reminded Marsh a bit of himself. Chances are that, if he learned about the Holy Grail, he wouldn't be able to resist sticking his nose into it before he even had an idea on how to handle the dangers.
Younger Marsh would have trusted his good sense to keep him from doing anything suicidal, taken him up to a good venture spot and handed him a nice set of binoculars. Now he was considering to give him a vacation just so he couldn't accidentally get into any trouble. It's this kind of situation that made him wonder if parenthood wrecked his ability to have fun.
"Everything okay, dad?" his daughter asked.
"Oh, yes, yes. My mind just wandered for a bit there."
"Must be your age," his daughter said. Before he had a chance to chastise her for the remark, she had given him a peck on the cheek and was rushing towards the door leading to the house proper. "I'll leave you two to your work then."
With a sigh he turned to Naoki, "Go get yourself ready for work."
"Yes, sir. I'm looking forward to it."
Master options reproduced:
[] Ayano Luana Matou
[] Karisviel von Einzbern
[] Annabella Smith
[] Oliver Steube
[] Naoki Watanabe
And thus the curtain rises on my first attempt at a quest. Let's hope it won't go up in flames as badly as the events in story.
As for the vote: Obviously only one potential main character is going to win, but do feel free to vote for multiple of the options, if you can't decide on one favourite.
Karisviel von Einzbern
Servant: Idasviel (Lancer)
Likes: Herself, Idasviel
Dislikes: Being Lectured
Talents: Everything (self assessment)
Age: 20 (?)
History: An Einzbern homunculus of the highest quality created specifically to win the Holy Grail. During her training she was left to develop a perfectly accurate impression of her own superior abilities.
Magecraft
Magic Circuits: Karisviel was created to be a Magus of the highest quality, as such 70% of her body consist of high quality magic circuits. Combined with her connection to the land that houses the Greater Grail, Karisviel possesses an effectively unlimited amount of mana, easily allowing her to fuel a high level Servant while also performing magecraft on her own.
Her magic circuits also serve as her Command Seals, while this means she cannot give the usual three absolute commands, the procedure has strengthened them to a degree that they serve as a continuous compulsion that plays a major role in keeping Brynhildr's mind suppressed.
Alchemy: The signature magecraft of the Einzbern, dealing with the creation and manipulation of the flow of matter. While not usually a combat oriented magecraft, Karisviel still mastered it in preparation for the Holy Grail War.
The field of alchemy she specialises in is the transmutation of noble metals. Having focused on applications useful for the Grail War, Karisviel is capable of reshaping metal, forming and controlling metal wires useful for constricting enemies and blocking attacks.
While she was never given access to the necessary materials, she also possesses the theoretical knowledge needed to create homunculi.
Healing Magecraft: The type of healing magecraft practiced by the Einzbern is primarily designed for treating the side effect caused by the transplantation of magically enhanced organs. As such, while Karisviel is not able to regenerate missing flesh, she can reknit the remaining flesh to mend wounds and detox bodies of harmful substances and magic.
Transference of Consciousness: Magecraft Karisviel primarily uses for the creation of familiars. By imparting a fraction of her consciousness into her own hair, she can create autonomous beings. Usually they are in the shape of birds, using the plentiful magical energy they've been given from Karisviel to shoot magical projectiles that have a higher destructive force than most magi could muster on their own. However, given that their body is formed out of hair, they can adapt their shape to fulfill other functions, while using the magical energy coursing through them to reinforce themself.
If given enough time, she can also transfer the consciousness of another person into a fitting vessel.
Mystic Eyes: Karisviel's body was constructed with a pair of Mystic Eyes of binding. They're not strong enough to have an effect on most magi, but can easily cripple an ordinary person through the power of suggestion.
Oliver Steube
Servant: Unknown (OOC knowledge: Saber Sigmund)
Likes: Campfires
Dislikes: His parents, Magus Traditions
Talents: Preparing Cold Cuisine
Age: 26
History: A magus from Germany. After a fallout with his family, he set out on his own and became a mercenary spellslinger. His work lead him to encountering his good acquaintance Marsh Seran, who has now supplied him with a shard of Gram as a catalyst.
Magecraft:
Elemental Magic: Oliver has an affinity for Fire and Wind magic, which he combines with his family's magecraft of stability, resulting in applications such as flames that can't be extinguished and barriers made out of solidified air.
Mystic Codes: Lacking a Mystic Crest to help with the activation of spells, he instead relies on the use of Mystic Codes. For reference, the individual codes will be listed as they're encountered in the Quest.
History: A part-time worker at Marsh Seran's antique shop. Despite having been completely ignorant of the moonlit world before, he was selected as Master for the Holy Grail War.
While he has not yet sworn allegiance to Karisviel, he has so far acted as an obedient ally and attentive student.
Magecraft:
Nothing. Naoki has absolutely no known magical ability and relies on Mara to fuel his Servant. Likewise, he requires a hypnotic aid to make use of the ability to analyse Servants granted to him by the Grail.
Mara Seran
Servant: - (Supplies Naoki's Servant with mana)
Age: 18
History: The daughter of Marsh Seran. She is the one that talked him into employing her friend Naoki at his antique shop. After realizing that a set of Command Seals had been bestowed upon Naoki, she palmed her father's best catalyst and set Naoki up to summon his Servant without his knowledge.
Magecraft:
You do not know specifics about her family's magecraft.
Ayano Luana Matou
Servant: Rider
Age: 18
History: The daughter of the decayed Matou family that has been acquired by the Edelfelts in a power play against the Tohsaka family. She grew up to have a rather brash personality that her parents have been unable to reign in. Instead they seem content to leave her on her own devices during the Holy Grail War.
Despite taking a violent dislike Kari, the most perfect person in the world, and Ida, who is rather enamoured with her because of said violence, she does have some friends. Most notably the other members of the archery club and Naoki.
Magecraft:
It is unknown how much of the Matou magecraft—which resolves around absorption, binding and coercion—survived, but it likely got cannibalized into the magecraft of the Edelfelt family.
What can be reasonably assumed is that she is skilled at transfering magical energy into gemstones to use at a later time to power spells and usage of of the Gandr. A curse that was originally designed to amplify diseases the target was already afflicted with, but has been amplified enough by her family to cause physical damage.
It is unknown whether or not she inherited the Edelfelt's sorcery trait, but given that it requires a sibling to synchronize with, it ought to be useless to an only child like her.
She has displayed a significant ability at strengthening her own body.
Akihiko Tohsaka
Servant: Abe no Seimei
Age: 18
History: The heir to the prestigious Tohsaka family and the magus in charge of administering the land for the Mage's Association. Despite the loses their family suffered because of the substitute Grail Wars, neither he nor his brother seem deterred from participating.
Magecraft: The Tohsaka family is skilled in the use of jewel magecraft, which they made significant progress in after the defeat of one of the Edelfelt sisters participating during the third Holy Grail War.
While not part of their magecraft exactly, it is worthwhile to note that the Tohsaka family has a history of pursuing martial arts alongside the way of magecraft.
Annabella Smith
Servant: Date Masamune (Saber)
Age: 18
History: A highly eccentric student of the Clock Tower that claims to be the Grand Duchess of Slaughter. She has started some kind of one-sided rivalry with karisviel after hearing the later's claims of divinity.
A stoic homunculus that lacks an understanding of social norms. She has entered a non-aggression pact with Karisviel. Although she did so out of a general lack of conviction rather than an admiration of the superior homunculus. Her working relationship With Kari is mostly positive, but at times strained by Amna having the nerve to consider the two of them friends.
Yumiko
Servant: Caster
Likes: Music, the occult, her fans
Dislikes: [Secret]
Talents: Her voice, academics
Age: 18
History: An idol with an interest in the occult that summoned her Servant by accident. Together they started a tour that brought their performances to Fuyuki just in time for the Holy Grail War.
Magecraft
Despite having some aptitude, she has no training in how to perform magecraft.
Name: Koji
Servant: Grendel's Mother (dead), Hänsel und Gretel
History: Presumably he was involved with the Grail War in Kyoto, summoned his Berserker there and then ultimately summoned Avenger here. They do appear to have formed some kind of family bond, but you didn't talk much before you captured him.
Class: Lancer
"True" Name: Brynhildr
Master: Karisviel von Einzbern
Likes: Karisviel von Einzbern, Romantic Bloodshed
Dislikes: Disappointing Karisviel
Talents: Praising Karisviel, Falling in Love
Strength: B+
Endurance: A
Agility: A
Mana: C
Luck: E
Skills:
Magic Resistance: B
The ability to cancel magical effects targeting the servant. Cancel spells with a chant below three verses. Even if targeted by High-Thaumaturgy and Greater Rituals, it is difficult for them to be affected.
Riding: A
A skill that imparts the servant with instinctual knowledge required to handle vehicles and animals. At this level all vehicles and all creatures but those of Phantasmal Beast and Divine Beast-rank can skillfully be used as mounts, including vehicles that did not exist in the time period one was alive in.
Divinity: E
Thanks to the Grail constructing a Servant's body over Idasviel's own, she can access Brynhildr's Divinity. However, given that in life Brynhildr was deprived of most of her Divine Spirit aptitude by Odin, the rank is low.
Mana Burst (Flames): B
A skill that emits Magical Energy that is infused with a flame effect. The intensity of the flames rise with the users passion.
This Skill that originates from an anecdote where Brynhildr fell asleep, surrounded by a ring of flames in a fire-packed pavilion.
Primordial Rune: —
As Brynhildr did not surrender to Idasviel out of her own free will, the Heroic Spirit's knowledge did not transfer to her. Including the knowledge of Runes, as such Idasviel can currently not make use of the skill.
However, given the close spiritual connection that now exists between the two, it is possible that she might eventually be able to grasp the relevant knowledge from Brynhildr's mind.
-Raising Divinity
-Enchantement
Hero's Bridesmaid: C
A skill representing the nature of a Valkyrie. It allows the synchronization of magical energy with a target as a means of carrying them to victory. The target receives a plus modifier to every successful check they make.
Noble Phantasm:
Brynhildr Romantia: Until Death Divide the Two Apart
Rank: B+
Type: Anti-Unit
The representation of the deep love and hatred Brynhildr holds towards Sigurd, having manifested by merging with the spear she used in life. As such its very nature is that of a weapon meant to destroy those loved by Lancer. Once released, the spear grows in size and weight to match the feeling of love felt towards the target. Depending on the level of love towards the target, this Noble Phantasm could be effectively useless or grow powerful enough to kill even an existence on the level of Hel.
Miscellaneous:
Ida can materialize light armor that allows for high mobility, while primarily protecting her limbs, stomach area and neck. It has several ornaments invoking the shape of wings.
The tip of her massive spear is heart shaped. Within the larger blade there's two holes, forming the shape of a broken heart along the jagged part of the shaft separating them.
Class: Lancer
True Name: Yvain
Master: Naoki
Strength: B+
Endurance: C
Agility: B
Mana: C
Luck: B+
Skills:
Magic Resistance: B
The ability to cancel magical effects targeting the servant. Cancel spells with a chant below three verses. Even if targeted by High-Thaumaturgy and Greater Rituals, it is difficult for them to be affected.
Riding: A
A skill that imparts the servant with instinctual knowledge required to handle vehicles and animals. At this level all vehicles and all creatures but those of Phantasmal Beast and Divine Beast-rank can skillfully be used as mounts, including vehicles that did not exist in the time period one was alive in.
Single-Mindedness: B+
The ability to completely immerse oneself into a goal. When focused, Lancer can significantly increase his performance and shut out mental interference that would interfere with his goal. Under the effect of this skill, even the greater picture is reduced to a mere distraction, oftentimes leading to Lancer taking rash action without considering the consequences.
Charisma: D+
A composite Skill consisting of a person's charm as well as their natural skills as a leader. While Lancer does have a talent for gathering people around him, it would be a mistake to classify his personality to that of a leader. Instead he's at his most effective when coordinating with allies he views as equals.
Animal Dialogue C
While complex conversation with animals is impossible, Lancer does have an uncanny ability to reach an understanding with animals. Though, having his orders understood does not guarantee that an animal will follow them.
Noble Phantasm:
Red Esclados: A Crack of Thunder Roaring Like a Thousand Cheers:
Rank: B++
Type: Anti-Unit
A weapon tied to the guardianship of a magical storm causing spring within the enchanted forest Brocéliande. Its gnarled wooden hilt can convert magical energy into a powerful storm contained by a thin bounded field shaped like a lance. Any impact is likely to damage the shell, creating a localized opening that allows for the storm within to be released, while concentrating its strength into a small point.
The exact size and power of this Noble Phantasm is relative to the amount of magical energy used to activate it.
Knight of the Lion: The knight's loyal companion
Rank: A
Type: Anti-Unit
A majestic lion that aids Lancer in battle. While it is loyal to Yvain, it is capable of storing magical energy of its own to manifest according to its own will without no regard to Lancer's orders. Still, the two are connected on a fundamental level, allowing the lion to appear at Yvain's side regardless of what obstacles are in its way, including those that would otherwise disable the use of Noble Phantasm entirely.
Besides manifesting at its full size, it can also take a smaller form resembling a stuffed animal.
Miscellaneous:
Lancer wears full plate armor that is styled in the image of a lion, including a pair of claws and an elaborate helmet.
Despite being a Lancer, he seems to be in possession of both a sword and a horse, neither of which have displayed special characteristics so far.
From what you can tell, his behaviour seems to switch between that of a dignified and courtly knight and that of a reckless adventurer without much notice.
Strength: C
Endurance: EX
Agility: B
Mana: A
Luck: E
Skills:
Riding: A
A skill that imparts the servant with instinctual knowledge required to handle vehicles and animals. At this level all vehicles and all creatures but those of Phantasmal Beast and Divine Beast-rank can skillfully be used as mounts, including vehicles that did not exist in the time period one was alive in.
Miscellaneous:
In contrast to his Master, he is a rather affable fellow that enjoys conversing with others.
Some of his behaviour indicates he might know more about magecraft, than one would expect from a Rider.
Class:Rider
True Name: Kamehameha
Master: Amna
Strength: B
Endurance: B
Agility: C
Mana: A+
Luck: C
Skills:
Magic Resistance: C
The ability to cancel magical effects targeting the servant. Cancel spells with a chant below two verses. Cannot defend against magecraft on the level of High-Thaumaturgy and Greater Rituals.
Riding: C+
Most vehicles and animals can be handled with above average skill. However, cannot ride creatures that qualify as Phantasmal Species. Rider might show greater skill for a specific type of vehicle.
Divinity: C
Rather than having divine blood himself, Kamehameha was designated as the guardian of Ku, a Hawaiian god that holds authority over war. Beyond his close ties to Ku's divinity, he also has access to rituals granting him further favor, including sacrificial practices that allow him to harness the strength of slain enemies from their remains.
Charisma: B
A composite Skill consisting of a person's charm as well as their natural skills as a leader. At this rank the Skill is sufficient to lead a nation as its King. The morale of the military forces he commands is extremely high.
Disengage: A
The ability to withdraw from the battlefield in the midst of combat or reset the battle conditions.
Noble Phantasm:
Lopaka and Kalola: Young and Davis
Rank: C+
Type: Anti-Army
A pair of canons operated by Kamehameha's old advisors. Their lack of mystery means they don't hold as much raw power as most anti-army Noble Phantasm would, even if Rider was able to instill enough magical energy into them to make them a force to be reckoned with. However, the fact that they're effectively remote controlled grants them some amount of versatility to compensate for their relative lack of fire power.
Dammed Waters
Most details of this Noble Phantasm are still unknown, but it appears to grant Rider some influence over blood spilled on the battlefield and cause people to sink into it. You currently don't know if anything lurks under its surface.
Class: Saber
True Name: Date Masamune
Master: Annabella Smith
Skills:
Instinct: ?
A sixth sense that allows one to feel the best course of action during combat. While it falls short of true precognition, the ability to sense incoming attacks does reduce one's reliance on the mundane senses.
Wild Card: ?
Denotes an unpredictable nature. Applies slight maluses to predicting Saber's next action and weakens the restrictions placed upon Date Masamune by the class system. In combination to the benefits of being summoned in his homeland, he can access a wide arsenal of abilities that don't fit the nature of a Saber.
Mana Burst (Lightning): ?
A skill that emits Magical Energy that holds the properties of electricity. He seems to have trouble channeling it consistently during combat, instead preferring to release it in big bursts using objects infused with his magical energy.
Noble Phantasm:
Date Sword Chronicles: Dragon's Treasured Claws
Rank: c
Type: Anti-Unit
A collection of swords held in high esteem by Date Masamune. They're granted a set of abilities through a conceptualization of anecdotes associated with them and Masamune's own artistic appreciation of them. He's summoned with six swords:
-Captivating Sword:
A katana whose true name is currently unknown. However, even without having its name revealed, the beauty and craftsmanship of the blade have transcended the mundane and stepped into the realm of magecraft. A subtle charm spell is cast on anyone seeing the sword, making it difficult to pay attention to anything but it, including the person wielding it.
-Habaki-Kuniyuki:
A katana encased entirely in a layer of ice that can grow rapidly to increase his attack range at the cost of the blade's sharpness.
-Usami-Nagamitsu
A katana connected to its scabbard by a trail of light. Upon Impact, the trail snaps forward to the blade and causes a powerful second strike. Doing so depletes the sword's magical energy, requiring it to recharge before it can be used again.
-Three more unknown swords
The identity of the other swords and the exact extent of their abilities can be extrapolated through further research
Saber's Eyepatch:
Rank: ?
Type: ?
A Distortion that blocks out Master clairvoyance to a certain degree, making it harder to fully grasp Saber's abilities and parameters.
Saber's Helmet:
Rank: ?
Type: ?
A distinct samurai helmet with a crescent moon ornament. It seems to act as a seal for some kind of power.
Class: Caster
True Name: Abe no Seimei
Master: Akihiko Tohsaka
Strength: D
Endurance: C
Agility: B
Mana: A+
Luck: A
Skills:
Territory Creation: A
Creates an area that is advantageous to oneself as a magus.
Able to create a 'temple' that is superior to a 'workshop' and wards off evil
Item Construction: A
Allows the creation of tools that carry magical energy, assuming one has the necessary material.
Specialises in the creation of Ofuda talismans holding a vast array of magical spells and enchantments, but isn't limited to their creation.
Divinity: C
Caster has gained a moderate rank of divinity after being enshrined in the Seimei Shrine in Kyoto.
Onmyōdō: A++
Represents Caster's mastery of the various applications of the Japanese school of thaumaturgy Onmyōdō, as well as its philosophical foundations.
Clairvoyance: A+
A manifestation of the spiritual powers inhabiting Caster's body as the son of a kitsune, granting him supernatural senses that allow him to perceive spirits and see through all kinds of concealment and illusions. It further aids him with various forms of divination he has mastered.
Robust Health: B
Represents a healthy body free of sickness and disease. Enhances the Servants Endurance, while reducing damage taken from physical injury, poison and diseases.
A result of Caster's spiritual powers having protected him from ever falling sick in life.
Miscellaneous:
Caster has shown a tendency towards using paper replicates of both himself and his Master to safely interact with others over distance.
Strength: E
Endurance: E
Agility: B+
Mana: A
Luck: B
Skills:
Territory Creation: B
Creates an area that is advantageous to oneself as a magus. At this rank it enables the creation of a Workshop that boosts the users ability to gather mana and their general magical ability, but does not allow for any feats that would be otherwise impossible.
Item Creation: D
Allows the creation of tools that carry magical energy, assuming one has the necessary material.
Siren Song: A
A form of fascination magecraft born through the user's beautiful voice. Anybody under the effect of this skill will have their attraction towards the user amplified and become highly susceptible towards them. It's possible to temporarily resist the effects of this skill through a constant application of either magical resistance, or willpower.
Charisma: B
A composite Skill consisting of a person's charm as well as their natural skills as a leader. While this Servant's inherent charisma is more suitable to spreading their influence over a city, the synergy with their Master has given them the means to become a sensation capable of sweeping a nation.
Strength: C
Endurance: C
Agility: A+
Mana: C
Luck: E
Skills:
Presence Concealment: A+
Hides one's presence as a Servant. Suitable for spying. It is possible to disappear completely and become almost impossible to be detected, even against a Servant's perception. However, efficiency will decrease once preparations to attack are taken.
Noble Phantasm
Unknown Zabaniya
A divine miracle that serves the Assassin in assuring the death of their target. The specifics are currently still concealed from you.
Miscellaneous:
Assassin helped you escape from the Tohsaka mansion after it was destroyed. While their motives are unknown, he and his Master have offered you their help. You should be able to contact them by leaving a message behind at the church.
Class: Archer
True Name: Odysseus
Master: Krone?
Strength :B
Endurance: C
Agility: A
Mana: B
Luck: E
Skills:
Magic Resistance: A
Cancel spells of A-Rank or below, no matter what High-Thaumaturgy it is. In practice, the Servant is untouchable to modern magi, so it would not be an exaggeration to title the Servant a "Magus Killer"
Independent Action: A
Archer is capable of action without relying on magical energy supplied by a Master. It is possible for Archer to stay in the world for about a week without a Master. However, this is the ideal value achieved by maximally conserving mana and avoiding battle and Noble Phantasm usage.
A conceptual Noble Phantasm that can pass through physical and magical defenses while absorbing their energy to empower itself. Likely tied to the legend of a Heroic Spirit that managed to trick his way inside an enemy's stronghold so they could destroy them from within.
Miscellaneous:
He wields several high quality axes with decorated heads, each of which has a hole within their blades.
He attempted to kill the Tohsaka's on the first night of the war, while trying to capitalize on Karisviel visiting their mansion to kill her as well. Despite successfully blowing up the Tohsaka mansion, all of his targets survived.
Dead
Class: Shielder
True Name: Ajax the Great
Master: Justine Terrevibrer
Strength: A
Endurance: A+
Agility: C+
Mana: B
Luck: C
Skills:
Magic Resistance: B
The ability to cancel magical effects targeting the servant. Cancel spells with a chant below three verses. Even if targeted by High-Thaumaturgy and Greater Rituals, it is difficult for them to be affected.
Riding: B
A skill that imparts the servant with instinctual knowledge required to handle vehicles and animals. At this level most mounts can be handled with above average skill, even vehicles that did not exist in the time period one was alive in, for they are no exception.
Divinity: D
A descendant of a Divine Spirit.
Protection from Arrows: A+
Shielder is capable of defending against projectile attacks on a conceptual level. Within the Shielder class he is capable of bestowing the same protection to anyone he's currently able to perceive. This effectively allows him to completely shut down all ranged attacks within his presence, short of high ranked Noble Phantasms.
Dead
Class: Berserker
True Name: Grendel's Mother
Master: Her son
Strength: A+
Endurance: A+
Agility: A
Mana: B
Luck: C
Skills:
Mad Enhancement: C
Berserker is granted a rank up for all parameters except Luck and Mana, but in exchange, one can no longer think and speak properly. Further there's a possibility that certain techniques, Personal Skills and Noble Phantasms of the Servant are limited.
Monstrous Strength: A+
An offensive special characteristic possessed only by monsters and magical beasts. This skill temporarily grants a rank-up to one's strength parameter for a time limit determined by the ranking of this skill.
Class: Avenger
True Name: Hänsel und Gretel
Master: Koji
You lack the specifics of their capabilities given you never interacted with them. Supposedly they're not very powerful, but there's two of them and they can summon a gingerbread house.
The third maid that was made to take care of Karisviel. Fully blooming in her role, she has become a devout worshipper of her person that has earned Kari's affection not only with her exemplary services, but also thanks to her genuine interest in Karisviel.
Given that she was partially made to act as a guard for Karisviel in case of the Holy Grail War resurfacing, she has tremendous physical strength that should be able to deal with most human magi and be sufficient to at least stall a Servant. To compensate, she was constructed with a weak ego and only a fleeting lifespan. Luckily, the later will cease to be a problem after Karisviel attains the third magic.
A golem acting as the interface for the artificial intelligence controlling the Einzbern Castle. With the human magi of the Einzbern line either dead or scattered, he has taken over the role of family head.
His pursuit of the various imitates of the Holy Grail appearing over the land has left him partially blind to Karisviel's true greatness and ambition. However, he still ultimately made the right choice in deploying her and Idasviel to win the Fuyuki Grail War.
The nun that functions as the church's overseer for the Fuyuki Holy Grail War. Despite appearing very dignified and impressive at first glance, she has failed to pay proper reference to Karisviel, even after having the full extend of her divine ambitions revealed to her.
Displaying some proaction in her role as the overseer, she has both promised her help in organising an initiative concerning Avenger and put a Command Seal bounty on information concerning the Masters that didn't follow protocol in contacting her.
The father of Mara and owner of the antique store that Naoki works at. He appears to be unaware that the two of them are involved in the Holy Grail War.
He moved to Fuyuki for a chance to investigate the remains of the Holy Grail. Once it reactivated, he decided to use the opportunity to make money, by putting the antiques from his collection that could act as catalysts on sale. In the process he also sent a letter to Karisviel. While the offer was useless to her, the gesture was appreciated.
The significantly more laid back brother of Akihiko Tohsaka. Despite not being the family's heir and not having summoned a Servant, he decided against moving to safety and stayed back in Fuyuki and help his brother win.
Karisviel and Idasviel visit Mister Seran's antique store where they meet Naoki, Mara, Marsh and Oliver. Ida promises a murder date to Oliver.
First Night:
Kari and Ida visit the Tohsaka mansion. An attack by Archer leads to them taking shelter within the Tohsaka's home.
The Einzberns discover that the Tohsakas managed to circumvent certain limitations of the Holy Grail to summon the Japanese Caster Abe no Seimei and that the Tohsakas are interacting with them through paper dolls made by Caster without being present physically.
Archer explodes the mansion.
The Einzberns manage to survive and are approached by Assassin, who helps them to retreat while avoiding further attacks from Archer.
They exchange information before settling on the Church as the location to leave messages for each other and splitting up for the night.
Assassin notices Lancer, Naoki and Mara in the area and meets up with them to warn them about Archer.
Day Two:
Karisviel makes her debut as a perfectly legitimate teacher at Naoki's school
She confronts Naoki about his participation in the Holy Grail War.
As a result she also learns about Naoki having summoned a second Lancer class Servant. This tips her off to the fact that complications (possibly connected to the means by which Brynhildr was summoned into Ida's body) may have triggered the Great Holy Grail War system and doubled the number of Servants summoned.
Further Naoki sets up a conversation between them and Ayano.
Ayano agrees to a limited alliance to deal with Archer and the Tohsakas, as well as to investigate the current state of the Greater Grail.
Second Night:
Kari, Naoki, Mara, Ayano and their Servants meet up and head to the Ryuudou Temple to investigate the Greater Grail.
There they find that Abe no Seimei has claimed the temple as his territory.
He and his Master—who is again only present by proxy—join their investigation.
Beyond confirming the increased number of Servants, they made the much more important discovery that an Avenger class Servant has been summoned.
Given that such a Servant could potentially corrupt the Holy Grail and cause untold destruction as a result, everybody present agrees to work together to neutralize them safely.
By Caster's estimate, he should be able to locate Avenger by the end of day four.
Karisviel informs the church's Overseer about their findings, so that she can spread the word about Avenger.
In turn the overseer realizes that not all Masters have registered with her and offers an open Command Seal bounty for information on any of the rogue elements.
Day Three:
Karisviel returns to her position as a teacher.
She uses the opportunity to organize for her, Naoki, Mara and Ayano to search for Archer that night.
The conversation gets interrupted by Anabella, who wants to challenge Ayano.
The others leave Anabella and Ayano alone. Although Karisviel leaves behind a familiar to spy on part of their conversation.
Back at home in her castle, Karisviel meets with Amna
The Conversation results in Karisviel agreeing to a non-aggression pact with Amna.
In return Amna agrees to join your efforts in eliminating Avenger and to go on a date with Idasviel.
Third Night:
Karisviel, Ayano, Mara, Naoki and their Servants meet up at the edge of Archer's territory.
The group splits up.
Kari, Ida, Naoki, Mara and Lancer form one group. They end up encountering Anabella and her Saber, who is revealed to be Date Masamune.
Ayano and Rider form the second group. They manage to corner Archer and his Master, leading to Anabella and Saber retreating in an attempt to come to their help.
The night ultimately ends without casualties. This is, in part, thanks to the appearance of Shielder, who claims Archer as his own prey and intends to kill him in a duel the following night.
Day Four:
Karisviel decides to organize Idasviel's date with Amna.
After a short conversation about love, they decide to visit the Monochrome Rainbow Concert.
The two idols turn out to be a Master and Servant pair that has managed to lay low despite their concerts.
Karisviel's group takes a neutral stance towards the idols for now and puts off dealing with them until after Avenger has been eliminated. Yumiko agrees to join Kari's classes at Homurahara Academy
They split up and the Einzberns return back home to prepare for that night's hunt for Avenger.
Fourth Night:
Once night hits, the Einzbern sisters meet up with Akihiko, Ayano, Naoki, Mara and Amna, as well as their respective Servants and Assassin to commence their hunt for Avenger.
They find that Avenger's Master is also contracted to a Berserker class Servant likely hailing from the incident in Kyoto.
While the others stay back to handle Berserker and the enemy Master, Akihiko, Abe no Seimei and Ayano's Rider move ahead to handle Avenger.
Kari's group succeeds in killing Berserker and capturing the Master.
Akihiko's group gets taken by surprise due to the revelation that Avenger is actually two people summoned together.
Ayano and Rider later claim that while Avenger escaped with their life, Rider successfully finished the process to exorcize Avenger's curse. In actuality, he trapped the affected segments of their souls for his own use.
Ayano and Rider accompany Karisviel back to her home, ostensibly to help her in case Avenger attempts to stage a rescue for their Master.
That night, Kari's dreams are filled with the memories of fallen Servants, namely the Berserker Grendle's Mother and Shielder Ajax the Great.
Day Five:
Ayano reveals that her Servant didn't simply exorcize Avenger's corruption, but rather split it off their spirit origin by engraving it in the Matou family's crest worms.
Karisviel makes a deal with her that leaves both of them with one gem that can be used to enhance a Servant to be empowered by grudges without risking the Holy Grail War itself being endangered.
After Ayano and Rider leave, Kari interrogates Koji, Berserker's Master, about his past and extracts his command seals.
Afterwards, she delivers Koji to the church overseer Eliza Kotomine.
On their way home, Kari and Ida pick up Amna and Annabella.
They spend some time with Kari at her castle in an attempt to cheer up Annabella after the events of last night resulted in her teacher being betrayed by his Servant Odysseus. This involves introducing Kari to the medium of manga.
Ultimately, the non-aggression pact is extended to be in effect three ways between Kari, Amna and Annabella and to last until they're the last remaining three Masters. In return, Annabella agrees to go on a date with Idasviel.
Once Annabella and her Servant leaves, Kari transfers one of the command seals she extracted from Koji to Amna.
Amna proposes the idea to Kari that they should get married, so that Kari can still attain the third magic in case Amna emerges as the winner of the Holy Grail War.
Kari does not accept, but is ultimately appeased enough to at least consider the idea.
It had taken years, but the day had finally come for you to summon a Servant worthy of yourself. Which was, of course, impossible.
You contemplate while getting your hair just right. With your heart-piercing red eyes, fair skin, delicately sculpted body and silver hair—that even bed hair could make look adorable at worst—you may be a naturally perfect beauty, but that was no excuse to be sloppy in how you presented yourself. Especially when you were about to make such an important first impression.
Old man Acht may claim he could make the preparations for a fitting Servant, but his attempts to placate you had stopped to work long ago. At least you've had more than enough time to come to terms with the fact that nobody could match Karisviel von Einzbern. With your expectations lowered to a more reasonable level, you could rest assured that your Servant would be satisfactory.
Naturally, you would not blame your Servant-to-be for failing to achieve the impossible. In fact, you're magnanimous enough that you'll treat them as gracefully as possible. Surely your charm will have won their undying loyalty before you've even arrived in Fuyuki. You let out a soft laugh at the thought of them singing your praise as you roam through the streets at night.
Granted, having to eradicate the other contestants in the war would distract from your leisure time, but that's what you were made for. All you had to do was completely dominate the competition and then you could enjoy being allowed to leave your castle for once.
Eventually your hair was styled as perfectly as it could be. There was only one more task you had to complete before the maid came to fetch you for the summoning. You stepped to your window, unlocked the latch and gently slided the window open, careful not to make any noise.
The cold morning air hits you in the face as you lean outside and take in the smell of wet earth carrying over from the forest outside. But now wasn't the time to lose yourself in nature, so you turn to the side and look at the friend you would have to say goodbye to.
"Hello Mister Schnabel, how are you today?" you ask the bird currently feasting out off the bird feeder you placed next to your window.
He looked up at you and chirped happily before going back to his food.
"That's good to hear. You know that today is the day, right? I considered taking you with me to Fuyuki, but that might be dangerous for you. What if somebody tries to attack the castle with a powerful Noble Phantasm while I'm not there to protect you? And I'm sure you'd rather stay out in the forest than spend most of your time locked into a cage, right?"
You knew better than to expect an actual response from a bird, but talking to him had become a habit.
"Don't worry, I made it very clear to the servants that I want them to continue to refill your food after I'm gone. I even made sure to enchant your bird feeder, so it would alarm me if they leave it empty for too long. Meaning the only luxury you'll have to manage without is the sound of my voice. It's horrible, I know, but please don't let it depress you."
It appears that Mister Schnabel had finished his main course and jumped over to your window sill. You run a finger through his plumage, enjoying the soft feel of his feathers for a while. Once you're satisfied, you grab a walnut out of a bowl you've placed on a nearby shelf, crack it open and place it in front of the bird along with some of the shell, so he could train his beak on it.
You spend your remaining time talking to and petting the bird, until a knock at the door sends him flying back to the forest. An abrupt goodbye, but that may have been for the best.
"You can enter," you say as you turn around to face the door, making sure you look perfectly composed.
"Mistress, it's time," Melsritt, your third maid, says as she enters.
"Let us go then, Mel! I'm sure you're excited to see what brilliant Servant I will summon."
"I am. Congratulations on summoning the best Servant, mistress."
"Mel, you're not supposed to congratulate me until after the summoning."
"Oh... I apologize," she said in a dull tone that didn't sound sorry. Though that was usual for her. The resources available for your own creation hadn't been available for any of her maids. As a result their functionality had come at the cost of both a thin ego and a short lifespan.
"I assumed your success was a given," she added after thinking about it for a while.
"Naturally it is. Don't worry too much about it, the sequence is just a formality."
"Understood, I won't worry."
You stand up on your tiptoes so you can give Mel a pat on the head to reassure her. Trouble expressing herself or not, she was a good loyal maid that knew how wonderful her mistress' truely was and would therefore undoubtedly find comfort in the gesture. Because you already knew that the gesture had its intended effect, her lack of noticeable reaction doesn't bother you.
The two of you continued on in silence until you reached the doors of the chapel that had been set up for the ritual. By the looks of it, Jubstacheit hadn't bothered to be present himself, sparring you another one of his lectures about how to perform a ritual you could perfectly recite in your sleep.
Leaving Mel behind you enter the chapel and find-
a catalyst you don't care about. Old man Acht's little tricks and cheats are beneath you and your abilities as a Master. So you would just toss whatever he prepared out of the window and summon a Servant by compatibility. Maybe it was a bit rude to him and all the preparations he had made, but it was ultimately his fault for not consulting you on what you wanted for your Servant. At least your inherent greatness guaranteed that you'd be matched with a Servant of the highest quality.
a shard of the Grail that had been created for the substitute Holy War held in Kyoto. The Einzberns had participated in that war and used it as the testing ground for the Avenger class. The Servant had been utterly useless and lost them the war. At least the substitute Grail for these wars had been easier to clean up than the true Greater Grail would have been.
However, that did not mean the class itself was entirely without merit. Acht had taken great pains to make sure the Grail shard wouldn't spread any corruption into the Greater Grail. Further, during the Einzberns' attempts to restore the Greater Grail's functionality, he had it tampered with so the replaced class would be that of Assassin instead of Berserker. In theory the resulting Servant should be a perfect Master-killer, while using human grudges to strengthen itself to a degree that would allow it to hold its own in open combat against other Servants.
With the catalyst mostly serving to determining the class, the exact Heroic Spirits would be determined by compatibility. Acht had hoped that the resulting similarities would help you in managing what ought to be a Servant with a problematic personality, which was a silly concern. Even the most wretched soul was bound to come to love you.
the gates of Troy, or at least fragments of them. A catalyst the Einzberns had secured in preparations for a potential war in greece. It was a very general catalyst with ties to a multitude of Heroic Spirits, but Acht had figured out a way how to limit the possible Servants. He had used most of the substitute wars they had participated in as testing grounds, including searching for further potential Servant classes. One he had discovered was the Shielder class, the Heroic Spirits of the Shield that were perfectly suited to keeping their Master alive.
While lacking in glamour when compared to other extra classes, it was practical and not something the others Masters would be able to predict. More than that, it limited the Heroic Spirits your catalyst would draw from to the most powerful possibilities.
Acht had already rigged the Grail to replace the Berserker class. All you had to do was add the matching lines to the summoning chant.
the one and only thing that was indeed worthy of acting as your Servant. Another Einzbern homunculus of your quality. She even looked almost exactly like you. While her body shape was identical to yours, her hair had a light teal accent and her eyes were the color of amethysts instead of the usual silver and red. Regardless, you hurried over to her and gave her a hug she lovingly returned.
She explained to you how old man Acht had spared no expenses in her creation. Winning the substitute Grai Wars the Einzberns participated in had never been Acht's priority, as their approximations of the Holy Grail were not nearly powerful enough to fulfill their true wish, instead preferring to use them as testing grounds for when their attempts to restore the Greater Grail of Fuyuki finally bore fruits. That did not mean they lost them on purpose.
One such victory is what lead to the creation of your stunningly perfect younger sister. A masterfully crafted homunculus, refined even further by a miracle to be compatible with a Heroic Spirit. Further he hijacking the system that let the Grail use a human vessel to summon a Ruler class Servant and synchronised her magic circuits with the Command Seal running through your body. All of it combined made her the perfect vessel for a Heroic Spirit, while also being able to suppress most of their personality and freely wield their power herself.
The fact that Acht had apparently forbidden her from telling you which Heroic Spirit the two of you were meant to summon had you slightly worried, but it didn't exactly matter. The two of you would be able to win this war no matter what Servant she ended up being. Even better, the way the Ruler system would layer the Servant over her physical body meant that when the time came to sacrifice the final Servant, it wouldn't actually kill her.
Summon:
[] Compatibility
[] Avenger
[] Shielder
[] Little Sister
And thanks to the Einzbern's tendency for screwing around with this stuff, the Servant options ended up being a good deal more complicated than those available to the other Master options. Though, just in case any of you are worried, while some of the options come with complications down the line, none of them are trap votes that lock you in for a bad end or anything like that.
You throw open the doors of the chapel with a strong push, revealing the same old pews and the same old altar now shining in the glory of a true miracle. On the altar sits the second most beautiful woman in the world, a near perfect recreation of you. Only the light teal accent in her hair and violet eyes differentiated her from you.
You hurry down the isles as fast as you can, while still keeping up a graceful appearance. Noticing your fast approach, your little sister looks up from her place on the altar. "Welcome, Elder Si-"
You barrel into her for a hug, but the momentum of your mad dash pushes both of you over the altar and tumbling to the ground. A short fall later you discover that your sister is very soft and makes for an excellent cushion and pillow. You mentally add cuddly to the list of your many positives. It is amazing how that list never stops growing.
"Are you hurt, Elder Sister?" she asks, frantically squirming around under you and trying to inspect you for bruises.
"I'm unscathed," you reassure her. That does not appear to calm her however, so you pull her head against your shoulder and soothingly pet her. "Don't worry, nothing is wrong and your precious sister is in pristine condition."
It takes a moment, but she soon calms down and starts to nuzzle against your shoulder. You pull the two of you up to a standing position, which was slightly complicated by your sister simply clinging to you. You consider peeling her off you, but ultimately can't bring yourself to do it. She clearly has been deprived of your glory for far longer than is conductive to her mental well-being.
Still, proper introductions are in order. "I am Karisviel von Einzbern. Who exactly do I have the joy of meeting today?"
That seemed to snap her out of her revery. She lets go off you, takes a couple steps back and curtsies. "I am Idasviel von Einzbern. Your devoted younger sister and loyal Servant. I am so happy that I can finally meet you, Elder Sister."
"I'm happy for you as well. Although, I do wonder, how did old man Acht manage to produce something else of my quality?"
"Ah yes, it was a rather sudden alteration of the Einzberns' plans. In essence, Grandfather used the wish from one of the lesser substitute Grails to create me along with the alterations described in the last post to make me your perfect Servant."
"I see. A very succinct explanation, you're indeed worthy of my praise."
"Ah, thank you, Elder Sister."
"Of course, greatness deserves to be acknowledged. Which is why you should never forget to constantly shower me in whatever compliments I happen to deserve at the moment."
"Gladly! The only act more pleasurable for me than thinking about your many positives—such as beauty and generosity—is brutally slaughtering whatever opposition you may face."
"Aw, how delightful of you. Talking about slaughter, which Heroic Spirit exactly are we going to summon for you?"
Idasviel seems to wilt at that question. "I'm sorry, Elder Sister, I want to answer your question, but Grandfather decided it would be best if I did not tell you. He was worried you would not li-"
"Worry not, Little Sister! Something like the gates of troy and their promise of Achilles might be trivial enough that I would simply chuck them out of the window, but you've already surpassed whatever Servant I could hope for by merely existing. If it distresses you, you do not have to tell me beforehand. Our victory is assured regardless."
"You're so compassionate. I swear that I will carry you to victory!"
"Hm, good. Then let us perform the summoning ritual." With that the two of you take your respective place around the summoning circle and you start chanting.
"Fill, fill, fill, fill, fill! Repeat five times, but destroy each when filled. For the base, silver and steel. For the foundation, stone and the archduke of contracts. For the ancestor, the Grail's core, Einzbern.
"Raise a wall to block the rising wind. Close the gates of the cardinal directions. Come forth from the crown and follow the forked road leading to the kingdom."
With the feeling of a frozen river's surface cracking open as boiling water is poured over it, mana starts flowing into the magic circuits running through your body. Pushing through the pain searing your nerves you connect to your sister, letting the magical energy refined within your body flow to her and through her to the summoning circle.
"Heed my words. My sister creates your body at my will, and you shall surrender your sword to her so that she may create our destiny. If you heed the Grail's call and obey my will and reason, then answer me. I hereby swear. That I shall be all the good in the world. That I shall defeat all evil in the world.
"Thou Seventh Heaven, clad in the three great words of power, come forth from the circle of binding, Guardian of the Scales!"
The Grail reaches out to the anchor you have created and answers your call. A vortex of energy accompanies the Servants arrival in the physical world. Within the raging wind and lights, you lose sight of Idasviel ever so slightly as her body is overlaid with an elemental Void that even your peerless vision refuses to perceive.
Then the world around you calms. Within the summoning circle stands your sister, now wearing the armaments of a Servant. Her arms, legs and sides covered in metal armor colored in the dark blue of the night sky. Her stomach and neck likewise were covered in purple metal plates. It wasn't the most protective suit of armor you could imagine, but—along with a hair ornament stylised in the shape of wings—it certainly was well suited to Idasviel majesty and beauty.
You could only catch a glimpse of a massive spear with a purple heart-shaped tip, before your sister tossed it away. Her body convulsed in pain as the Servant within her refused to surrender control.
She twitches and the next thing you know is her standing before you. Her hands slowly extending towards your throat. Blue flames flicker from the tip of her fingertips, their heat licking at your cheek. Refusing to flinch, you meet your sister's eyes. She, however, is unable to fully meet your gaze, as her eyes fall in and out of focus between waves of pain. It'd be best finalize the contract quickly.
"Are you my Master?" she manages to ask in a shaky whisper.
"I am. You may return to rejoicing."
Your Command Seals sting as they fully connect to your sister and start assisting her in gaining full control of her body. The magic circuits running through her body respond in kind, channeling enough magical energy that their brilliant red glow becomes visible even through her skin.
Then she throws herself to the side, into the pews. Her body violently thrashes around in response to her mind's final push to wrestle the Heroic Spirit into submission. Her swinging limbs casually shatter the pews and ground they come into contact with. Splinters and dust dance through the air only to be reduced to ash by bursts of flames erupting from Idasviel.
You get distracted from the spectacle by Mel bursting in through the doors and calling out for you in worry. She grabs one of the pews, lifting it as a makeshift weapon with ease and seems all but ready to jump at the destructive inferno raging around your sister to defend you. She's such a good girl.
"It's fine, Mel. My Servant is going to be ready any second now."
"I see." With the need to defend you gone, she sets the pew back where it had stood before.
Both of you watch in silence and Idasviel struggles. It takes a bit longer than you would have suspected, but after about a minute the flames had died down and your sister stood victorious. She walks towards the two of you with a tired smile. "I'm sorry it took me so long, Elder Sister. I hope the heat from the flames didn't inconvenience you."
"Worry not, a bit of heat isn't nearly enough to faze me," you say and give her a reassuring pat on the head. Her smile grew a little bit wider at that.
"Congratulations, mistress. Your Servant is very beautiful."
"Of course I am beautiful. I was made to look as much as my elder sister as pos-" Idasviel didn't manage to finish her sentence before she collapsed against you. Apparently the summoning had left her entirely exhausted, but she should quickly recover with a bit of rest.
Mel carries her outside the castle and to the car for you. From there you drive to the private plane already prepared for your flight to Fuyuki. Idasviel is seated next to you, but she remains exhausted, so you simply let her rest her head on your shoulder and sleep. Without her, you spend the flight reading, much like most of your time. Specifically, you read over accounts of various historical figures, myths and accounts of former Holy Grail Wars. None of the information is new to you, but the coming days likely would be too preoccupied with the war to go over any of the information again. Making sure you would have as much knowledge as possible fresh on your mind couldn't hurt.
Every now and then you take a short break and look out of the plane's window. You're likely much higher than Mister Schnabel ever has been in his life, but you still like to think your current view compares to how he sees the world.
Idasviel wakes up just in time for your arrival in Fuyuki. By the local time, it's late enough that school would likely be over already, but still early enough that you could take a quick trip through the city, while Mel could prepare the castle for your arrival.
[] Visit Seran's antique shop. You did promise him the honor after all.
[] Just explore town and have a random encounter.
Class: Lancer
Master: Karisviel von Einzbern
Strength: B+
Endurance: A
Agility: A
Mana: C
Luck: E
Skills:
Magic Resistance: B
The ability to cancel magical effects targeting the servant. Cancel spells with a chant below three verses. Even if targeted by High-Thaumaturgy and Greater Rituals, it is difficult for them to be affected.
Riding: A
A skill that imparts the servant with instinctual knowledge required to handle vehicles and animals. At this level all vehicles and all creatures but those of Phantasmal Beast and Divine Beast-rank can skillfully be used as mounts, including vehicles that did not exist in the time period one was alive in.
Mana Burst (Flames): B
A skill that that emits Magical Energy that is infused with a flame effect.
I imagine some of you can already figure out which Heroic Spirit got installed in Idasviel, given that is one of the few canon Servants that made it into my potenetial line up. Either way, it's not going to be a secret going forward, so that Information Matrix will be filled out soon enough.
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4: Learning About Brynhildr And Arriving At The Antique Shop
[X] Visit Seran's antique shop. You did promise him the honor after all.
Being the well prepared genius that you are, you had already researched the best route to your destination before you had even started your journey. The antique store's located in the Mount Miyama shopping district. A series of small stores located on the east of Miyama Town's central street, placing it between the traditional japanese and the foreign housing districts, that occupied the suburb's north and south respectively, and near Homurahara Academy.
In fact, several students, still in their uniform, are taking a stroll through the area. Mostly groups of girls gathering around food vendors that had managed to attract them with the delicious smell of their food, though there were more than a few male students entering the various business as well.
None of them looked interesting enough for you to devote any significant amount attention to them. The opposite did not apply, as the majority of the crowd could not help but pay attention to you and Idasviel walking past them. You couldn't blame them for it, while Fuyuki had its fair share of foreigners, the two of you cannot be compared to anyone commoners like them might meet in their daily lives.
Idasviel still looked a bit tired, but she was happily walking next to you and carrying a box of high-quality chocolate that you had gotten as a little gift for Seran. "Isn't it wonderful, Elder Sister? So many people and none of them can resist admiring your beauty."
"I suppose. However, simple glances and whispers amongst themselves hardly provide the level of adoration I deserve."
"Ah, you're right, Elder Sister. They should be falling to their knees so they can properly worship you."
"I'm not some arrogant fool that would demand the masses to prostrate themself before me, but yes, it would be nice if at least some of them did something to return the favour I am doing them by exposing myself to them, instead of merely drinking in my presence."
"I should have realized that myself, Elder Sister. I have a tendency to become enamoured quickly, especially when it comes to you."
"That's fine, there's nothing wrong with being positive and you can always rely on me to give you a correct evaluation of any situation."
"I'll happily follow your guidance."
"A very wise decision. However, even I need accurate information. As such I hope you can finally tell me what Heroic Spirit we summoned."
"Yes, of course, Elder Sister. I should have told you right away instead of resting first. Please let me correct my mistake immediately. The Heroic Spirit now dwelling within me is Brynhildr."
She timidly glances at you, looking for some kind of reaction. You simply give her a reassuring smile and gesture her to keep talking.
"As a Master, you can of course already read my parameters and class skills. As for personal skills, there is the flame based Mana Burst you already witnessed. The flames burn with a heat matching my passion, so I'll always make sure to remember who I'm fighting for. Then there's the Hero's Bridesmaid skill, which allows me to use my magical energy to enhance the performance of others. It's not enough to let you stand up against a Servant, but I'll do my best to support you every way I can. Brynhildr is also in possession of the Primordial Runes, but she refused to surrender the knowledge of their usage to me. But don't worry, Masters' dreams sometimes allow them to glance at their Servant's past. I'm sure that I can extract the relevant knowledge out of her using the same method. It's only a matter of time. I apologize for not being able to offer you her full potential from the start."
"I told you, you're already plenty," you say along with giving her shoulder a comforting squeeze. "Wanting to do your best for me is only proper, but you don't have to constantly apologize for things outside your control."
Idasviel nodded.
"That's my wonderful and brilliant little sister. Now, there's still the matter of your Noble Phantasm."
"Its name is Brynhildr Romantia: Until Death Divide the Two Apart. It is the spear you've already seen, an Anti-Unit weapon that increases in size and weight in accordance to how much love I feel towards the target."
"Hm, truth be told, Little Sister, that doesn't sound very practical against opponents we haven't even met yet."
Idasviel blushed at that and looked away from you, instead fiddling with the box of chocolates. "Well, to be entirely honest with you, I was installed with a personality to solve that problem. Not only do I grow infatuated with others quickly, but my sense of romance is also… abnormal. For example, while I am utterly content with just serving you, I feel bliss simply thinking about a Heroic Spirit lying in a puddle of their own blood after I stabbed them. Then, as they fade, I'll be all they can focus on. It's like this entire war is one big dance to make the other contestants yours."
She put a hand against her cheek and let out a wistful sigh. The expression on her face was adorable, even if it was inappropriate of her to fantasise about other people with you right next to her. You're about to call out to her—not out of jealousy of course, you simply know her well enough already to tell that the guilt of ignoring you would be disastrous for her—but just then she snaps out of her revery herself.
She turns back to you and grabs on of your hands. "But don't worry, nothing of that is nearly as important to me as you're, Elder Sister. My love for you is the strongest force in this world." A sudden realization seems to come to her and she continues talking more hurried. "No, the first reason why you don't need to worry is that my love for you is that of a sister, pure of any such fleshly desires as wanting to gut you. There isn't even a need for you to trust me. With how much I love you, me trying to use the Noble Phantasm against you would certainly split the planet."
"Of course you wouldn't hurt me," you say, while squeezing her hand. "My mere existence enriches the world so much, that harming me is a sin only the most vile individuals would consider. A wonderful and perfect Einzbern homunculus would never stoop that low."
"Ah, Elder Sister, you're so understanding."
"Finally you're talking sense again. Now come, we've almost reached our destination," you say as you speed up your steps and pull her along behind you.
Class: Lancer
True Name: Brynhildr
Master: Karisviel von Einzbern
Likes: Karisviel von Einzbern, Romantic Bloodshed
Dislikes: Disappointing Karisviel
Talents: Praising Karisviel, Falling in Love
Strength: B+
Endurance: A
Agility: A
Mana: C
Luck: E
Skills:
Magic Resistance: B
The ability to cancel magical effects targeting the servant. Cancel spells with a chant below three verses. Even if targeted by High-Thaumaturgy and Greater Rituals, it is difficult for them to be affected.
Riding: A
A skill that imparts the servant with instinctual knowledge required to handle vehicles and animals. At this level all vehicles and all creatures but those of Phantasmal Beast and Divine Beast-rank can skillfully be used as mounts, including vehicles that did not exist in the time period one was alive in.
Divinity: E
Thanks to the Grail constructing a Servant's body over Idasviel's own, she can access Brynhildr's Divinity. However, given that in life Brynhildr was deprived by most of her Divine Spirit aptitude by Odin, the rank is low.
Mana Burst (Flames): B
A skill that that emits Magical Energy that is infused with a flame effect. The intensity of the flames rise with the users passion.
This Skill that originates from an anecdote where Brynhildr fell asleep, surrounded by a ring of flames in a fire-packed pavilion.
Primordial Rune: —
As Brynhildr did not surrender to Idasviel out of her own free will, the Heroic Spirit's knowledge did not transfer to her. Including the knowledge of Runes, as such Idasviel can currently not make use of the skill.
However, given the close spiritual connection that now exists between the two, it is possible that she might eventually be able to grasp the relevant knowledge from Brynhildr's mind.
Hero's Bridesmaid: C
A skill representing the nature of a Valkyrie. It allows the synchronization of magical energy with a target as a means of carrying them to victory. The target receives a plus modifier to every successful check they make.
Noble Phantasm:
Brynhildr Romantia: Until Death Divide the Two Apart
Rank: B+
Type: Anti-Unit
The representation of the deep love and hatred Brynhildr holds towards Sigurd, having manifested by merging with the spear she used in life. As such its very nature is that of a weapon meant to destroy those loved by Lancer. Once released, the spear grows in size and weight to match the feeling of love felt towards the target. Depending on the level of love towards the target, this Noble Phantasm could be effectively useless or grow powerful enough to kill even an existence on the level of Hel.
***
Shortly afterwards you throw open the door of the antique shop, free hand on your hip and Idasviel right behind you. A little bell rings to announce your arrival, as you survey the interior. Your first instinct was to call it tiny, though the building wasn't any smaller than the other stores you've passed on your way here. Apparently poor people had even lower standards than you imagined.
There aren't any other customers, just one boy standing behind the counter. He's in his late teens, has black hair and, on first impression, appears likable. Much like a dog.
He doesn't immediately greet you—no doubt stunned by your beauty—so you speak up first. "Rejoice, boy! Karisviel von Einzbern has just entered your life. Not only that, you're even allowed the honor of assisting me, for I am in search of the owner of this store."
By the time you've finished, the boy has gathered his wits and is smiling at you, which is exactly the expression someone meeting you should wear. "Welcome, Miss. I'm afraid the boss is currently having a private conversation with another customer. Is he expecting you?"
"Naturally he is. In our correspondence I mentioned that I might visit his store. The mere possibility must have him bursting with excitement. I'm sure he mentioned it?"
"I am afraid he did not. Maybe he wanted to save me the unbearable anticipation?"
"How thoughtful of him," Idasviel says. "I had to wait over a week until I was finally allowed to meet my elder sister and it almost drove me insane. Really, Elder Sister, you're so blessed. You never have to live with the anguish of being separated from yourself."
"Indeed, the world truly is unfair. Alas, the only thing I can do alleviate the suffering of others is to let them quench themself on the eternal spring that is myself. But enough about that. Boy," you say as you walk past the old furniture, statutes and other antiques until you reach the counter, "while it is unfortunate that your employer is occupied, you did answer my question. As a reward, I'll make sure to remember you. Feel free to tell me your name." You offer him your hand.
"I'm Naoki Watanabe," he says. His handshake has just the right amount of firmness. "It's an honor?"
"Indeed it is. How astute of you to notice yourself." You give him a winning smile, causing him to get flustered and pull his hand back faster than was necessary. His blush was rather adorable, but you refrain from petting him. He wasn't actually a dog after all.
Regardless, for now you would:
[] Let Naoki entertain you until Seran is finished with his meeting. Maybe he could also assist you with browsing the antiques.
[] Interrupt Seran's meeting with the other customer. Clearly both of them would agree that meeting you is much more important than their business.
[] Leave. If Seran can't properly welcome you, he would have to live with being deprived of your presence.
[] Let Naoki entertain you until Seran is finished with his meeting. Maybe he could also assist you with browsing the antiques.
"You're a very lucky man, Naoki. Do you know why?" you ask him.
"You mean besides the fact that I got to meet you?"
"Yes. I'm going to have you take responsibility for your employer and have you entertain me until he finishes his meeting."
"I see. We can't... expect someone of your status to wait and suffer such an indignity as boredom."
"Exactly!"
"The boss can count himself lucky that you have enough restraint to not simply burst into his meeting."
"You may stop stating the obvious now."
The corners of Naoki's smile twitch. You intended to let it slide, but before you can say anything, Idasviel moves in front of the counter. She leans forward until her face was right in front of Naoki's, requiring her to stand up on her tiptoes and balance herself with both her hands on the counter, also placing down the box of chocolates.
"Don't worry, when my elder sister said the obvious, she only meant explaining her actions. You can continue mentioning her positives as much as you want. There's no need to be roundabout about it either. Just be honest about whatever fraction of her boundless charm has captivated you and she'll graciously accept your feelings. So go ahead, praise her right now."
"No, I don't think that's appropriate," he says, leaning back slightly.
Idasviel vaults over the counter and positions herself behind Naoki. Even if she's slightly smaller than him and has no visible muscles, her strength as a Servant made it easy for her to simply grab him by the shoulders and push him towards you.
"Now now now now now," Idasviel says, a frantic edge entering her voice as she brings her mouth right next to his ear. "Don't worry about silly things like that. Just be honest. It feels so liberating."
He awkwardly looks at Idasviel out of the corner of his eyes—unwilling to actually turn his head towards her—and then finally surrenders to your wholesome glory. "Karisviel," he says, meeting your eyes now, "you're a very beautiful woman. Almost otherworldly so, as if you're a fairytale princess that stepped right out of a picture book."
You give an appreciative hum at the description. "Very good, Naoki. That's much better than having to bottle up all the passion my presence inspires within you, isn't it?"
"Oh yeah, sure. I'm so lucky your personality matches your outward brilliance. Otherwise this whole conversation would be… unbearable."
"Ah, it's wonderful how good you are at praising Elder Sister," Idasviel says, all but swooning as she sees your contend smile.
"Oh no, I should be thanking you for helping me get over my silly inhibitions."
"I'm just doing my duty towards my sister, I don't deserve any thanks for something as natural as that." This time it's Idasviel who doesn't meet Naoki's eyes, instead she's staring at where she's clinging to his shoulders. A slight blush is spreading over her cheeks.
Naoki considered her for a while, then his smile grows a bit wider. Surely he had just awoken to your sister's charm as well. You knew that people would have no choice but to love you once you left the castle, but even you hadn't imagined that the two of you would be such heartbreakers.
"I still think it's admirable. Karisviel can count herself lucky to have such a dutiful little sister as you. I'm sure she counts you as just as much of a blessing as the brilliance she was born with."
Idasviel gives an adorable little yelp and jumps away from Naoki, her face now entirely red. She plays with her bangs in an futile effort to hide her face and stammers out a response, "You really shouldn't be complimenting me like that. I'm… I mean, I quickly… no, first off you should give your attention to my sister instead. She's much more deserving."
You pull her into a hug from across the counter, which she happily accepts. "You're both right. You, Idasviel, have been a wonderful addition to my life and you, Naoki, are free to shower me in adoration. I assure you, I know how to handle it."
"You two really get along great, don't you?"
"Of course, but then, how could anyone not get along with someone as lovely as us?"
"I couldn't imagine that either. If nothing else, the two of you are delightful," he says with a chuckle. "Anyway, I don't think I'm interesting enough to be taking up all your attention."
"No need to put yourself down like that," you say. "You maybe be lacking when compared to myself and Idasviel, but so is everyone else. In fact, by those standards you're a very diligent and delightful young man." Granted, this was the first time you had a face to face conversation with someone who isn't an Einzbern homunculus, but you're confident in your ability to read people.
"And he's so kind and handsome," Idasviel absentmindedly murmurs into your shoulder, quiet enough that Naoki wouldn't hear her. Though you don't think that she's doing it on purpose. "I want him to participate in the Holy Grail War. Then I could touch his heart, right after ripping open his chest." You gently pet her head to calm her down. Well, you suppose it isn't impossible for her wish to become true. It's not like simply looking at somebody's hands was enough to check for Command Seals.
"My sister has a high opinion of you as well."
"It's very kind of you two to be concerned about me like that, but that isn't quite what I meant," he says as he steps around the counter. "It's just that I can regale you with your own brilliance, while you focus on something else. Maybe some of our antiques are worth your interest?"
You perk up at that proposal. You start looking at the various items scattered around the shop in more detail. Only the fact that you're still holding Idasviel stops you from actually darting towards them. You quickly find that the furniture and similar decor don't exactly hold up to your standard. They were after all meant to be affordable for the people living in this town. Still, you're determined to find something interesting. Now, if only your kind nature would permit you to peel your sister off yourself.
"Excuse me," Naoki says to Idasviel, who stares back at him with big eyes, "Idasviel, actually could I maybe just call you Ida?" She nods. To think that your own sister would acquire a nickname before you. "Thank you. Then, Ida, could you maybe let go of your sister, or at least come to the other side of the counter again? I think that even she'll have trouble searching through the shop without moving."
"Ah, I'm sorry, Elder Sister," she says, as she pulls herself away from you and hops over the counter. "Please, go ahead and enjoy yourself."
"A wonderful idea." You throw a sidelong glance towards Naoki as you start walking. "I take it you also wish to shorten my glorious name?"
"If you would let me," he responds.
"I shall allow it, seeing how any name meant to address me will be glorious by association alone." Even if simply shortening your name wasn't the height of creativity, adding to your life experiences like that did earn him a reward. So you don't surpress your urge to giggle in anticipation. Your adorable smile and lovely voice elicit a blush from Naoki, which only grows deeper when you give him a sly smile.
"In that case, Kari, is there anything particularly worthy of your interest?" he asks in an attempt to regain his composure.
Teasing him would be below you, so you let it slide and continue the conversation.
"I do have a particular interest in various mythologies and folklores."
"How fitting for such a fantastical lady," he says with a chuckle. "Regardless, it does seem the boss may have something that interest you." With that he leads both you and Ida to a corner of the shop partially hidden behind a couple of large shelves.
There you find an assortment of objects, ranging from paintings and tapestries to little statues and old tomes, all themed after various heroes from all over the world. There are some inaccuracies, like certain rulers being depicted as male, but overall it's quite the collection. Ida heads straight for the norse part of the collection. Maybe parts of Brynhildr's tastes were bleeding through? Regardless, it wasn't the most subtle behaviour on her part, but it should be fine as long as she doesn't cover herself in Brynhildr themed art.
"Your sister seems to have a passion for norse mythology," Naoki says.
"She does. We're german, so I suppose something like the Nibelungenlied would be more appropriate, but she does have a love for originals." That's not exactly the truth, but as close to it as was his business. As you talk, you start searching through collection yourself.
"I see. So, how did our little town manage to attract two foreign wonders?"
"Hm? We're Einzberns. There's only one thing that would bring us to Fuyuki."
"I'm afraid I never had the fortune of hearing about your family before."
That made you pause. You had assumed that a magus would only let another magus come and go into his house, but there's no way a magus, especially one living on the land housing the Greater Grail, wouldn't know about the Einzbern. On second thought, there hadn't been even the most basic bounded field around the store's entry. It's a bit of a pity that Naoki lacks the knowledge needed to fully understand how great you are, but otherwise it didn't matter much. After all, the gap between you and an ordinary magus was alreagy large enough that him lacking any magical ability made no noticable difference.
"In that case it would likely be best to say that we're here to claim a family inheritance," you ultimately settle on telling him.
"I'd wish you good luck with that, but I doubt the task will actually be a problem for you."
"Perceptive as usual, my boy. There are some miscreants trying to oppose our claim, but that is mostly a matter of formality. Still, you may cheer for me, if it sooths your worries."
"In that case, good luck you two. Hopefully, whoever is giving you trouble will come to their senses when they actually meet you in person."
"One can only hope. It would be despicable for anyone to be too caught up in their own selfish desires to partake in my glory."
You stop as you spot something in the chinese assortment. Amongst the pheasant feathered helmets and various scrolls is a pendant in the shape of a fenghuang. A piece of jewlery obviously couldn't be a replacement bird, but you still feel a pang of sentimentality at the sight and the mythological bird does suit your person rather well, seeing how it represents various positive connotations.
You try on the necklace and get a compliment from Naoki for sharing your beauty with it. Just to be prudent you also get a second opinion from your sister, who gives you even more gushing praise.
You decide to buy it.
Leaving Ida behind to rummage around a bit more on her own, you and Naoki head back to the counter. While you finish the transaction, the door to the back opens and two people emerge into the shop.
The first was a man in his late thirties, wearing glasses and a confident smile. You're quite certain that's Marsh Seran.
Behind him follows a man that's about a decade younger than him with a calm expression and holding a tightly wrapped box under his right arm. What draws your attention are the Command Seals on the underside of his right arm. They're partially hidden by the sleeves of his trench coat, but extend far enough up his wrist that you can still recognize them clearly.
So Seran had found someone to peddle his catalysts to after all. Maybe you should be indignant over the fact he's supporting your competition, but it won't make much difference one way or another.
Regardless, you can't sense the presence of any Servant besides your sister and he only just aquired his catalyst, so it seems safe to assume he did not summon his Servant yet. Meaning that, even ignoring that it could be considered rude to Seran, killing him would accomplish nothing besides having his Command Seals pass on to a new potential Master.
You resolve to be generous and greet your competition peacefully.
[] Greet him formally. Even if this war was a mere technicality, your competitors deserve some measure of respect for being chosen by the Holy Grail.
[] Greet him informally. Naoki is correct that any sane person should cede their right to the grail to you. Explain to this Master exactly why he should do so.
[] Greet him bluntly. There's no need to hide the fact that you're going to win. If he still persists on fighting, he may as well tell you his last wish now.
[] Write in
Afterwards, you could finally have your meeting with Seran.
[] Keep the conversation brief. You've already spend enough time with Naoki.
[] Have a full conversation with him. It would be cruel to deprive him of the chance at this point.
-[] Write in conversation topics (optional).
Well, that took me way longer than it had any right to. Sorry about that.
[X] Have a full conversation with him. It would be cruel to deprive him of the chance at this point.
Both men notice you almost immediately. A presence shining as brilliantly as yours simply cannot be ignored after all.
"Einzbern," the Master said. He shifts his hold on the box to move it out of your sight and looks across the room, as if trying to spot your Servant was even remotely as important as paying attention to you.
"My, there's no need to be so nervous. I am indeed the Master of the Einzbern family. Karisviel von Einzbern," you say, smiling despite the lack of proper reverence. "However, there's no need to ruin such a beautiful day by fighting before all the preparations are complete."
"Fair enough. Oliver Steube." He extends a hand towards you and it takes you a moment to realize he expects you to shake it. As if you being respectful implied he was in any way your equal.
A rather arrogant assumption on his part. Still, restraining your amusement to a light smirk, you shake his hand. A small blunder like that was easy enough to overlook with your wealth of mercy.
"Of course, I would advise you to be prepared by the next time we meet. I can only be patient for so long on this matter and plenty of others will not have any patience at all," you say.
"Also fair. I'm certainly not going to expect any mercy."
"Well, I might be willing to show some, if you come to realize that I'm a superior being and support my claim as the winner accordingly."
Oliver scoffs at that.
What a shame. You sigh and turn towards a less pitiful person. "Mister Seran, it's a pleasure that we can finally meet in person, especially for you. Despite bringing myself already being plenty, I do have a little something to sweeten the occasion." You turn back to the counter and pick up the box of chocolates for him to see.
"That's very thoughtful of you. Naoki, could you fetch Mara and tell her we have a guest? Go ahead and take the chocolate with you while you're at it."
"Will do, Boss. If you'd excuse me," he says to the group as a whole.
"You're excused," you say, "but only if removing yourself from my presence isn't too much for you to endure."
"Thank you for the concern, I'll be sure to return as soon as possible." He gives one final smile before moving into the back.
Seran signals for you and Oliver to be quiet and, after letting a couple of seconds pass, says, "That conversation was entirely too close to letting Naoki catch on to something for my taste."
"Worry not," you reassure him. "Nothing of what we just said would imply the existence of magecraft to an ordinary person."
"Yeah, turns out I'm with Miss Superior on this one. You probably shouldn't have hired him at all, if you're that worried about it."
Seran groans at that. "Look, my daughter talked me into that one, but that's no reason to not be careful at all."
"Man, you didn't even get worried when I thought I sensed a Servant. Correctly, it turns out."
"Eh, I did prepare a summoning circle in the back, just in case somebody didn't want to bother making their own. Even if someone did try to kill you, you could have summoned your Servant in time. It would have been an adventure."
"Excuse me," Ida calls out from behind the shelves. "But I could still try to kill you right now, if you'd prefer."
"Oh no, that's really not necessary," Seran hastily responds.
"I don't mind at all. In fact, I would enjoy it."
"He was joking," Oliver says with an edge of annoyance in his voice.
"Oh… it's not nice to tease a lady like that."
You underline her point by glaring as Seran accusingly.
"I'll just take this as my moment to leave," Oliver says. "Kill you later, I guess?"
"Okay! It's a date!" Ida excitedly calls after him, as he exits the store.
The soft ring of the bell announces that you're now alone with Seran, who at least has the decency to look guilty.
"Could I maybe offer you some tea and cake to make up for my… rudeness?"
"I shall be merciful and grant you that chance," you say.
"If my elder sister is willing to forgive you, then I shall give you another chance as well," Ida says. She steps out from behind the shelves, carrying various figurines and similar commodities in her arms. You don't think she could carry all of it without enhanced strength, at least not that easily.
"Wonderful, follow me then," he says. He's much more cheerful again now, this chance at redemption must mean a lot to him. "Just pile up everything on the counter first. I'll have Naoki ring you up, while we talk."
Your sister does as she is told and the two of you follow him further inside. He leads you to a living room that you believe would be described as cozy, filled with wooden furniture that would fit right in with the antiques in the shop and the smell of tea. Naoki, in the process of setting the table, and a girl, presumably his daughter Mara, are already present.
Mara's wearing glasses and has slightly frizzy red hair. Despite her being rather mousy overall, she was looking at you and your sister with an excitement that reminds you more of a cat. You don't think that's quite the right attitude towards you, but at least she seemed aware that she's dealing with somebody special.
Poor Naoki gets sent out of the room again, at least this time he could gain some fulfillment from the knowledge that he's working for the sake of your sister. After he left and Seran formally introduced his daughter, Mara runs up to you until she's only inches away from your face.
"Wow, I've never seen an Einzbern homunculus in person. You really are a work of art."
"Of course I am," you say, turning your head to the side and brushing back some of your hair to give her a better look at your regal profile. "You've done well realizing. Feel free to display your keen insight by elaborating further."
Your offer must have been too tantalizing, leading to her being impudent enough to pinch your cheek. "You're so soft to the touch as well. The craftsmanship is impressive."
Your ever diligent little sister responds by grabbing her wrist and pulling her away from you. "Please do not touch my elder sister without her permission."
"But-" Mara starts, but Ida interrupts her.
"I know that holding back is hard when dealing with such a dazzlingly perfect person, but if you cannot control yourself for her sake, then you're not good enough to be in her presence. It's only thanks to her unmeasurable generosity that someone like you gets the chance to interact with her at all."
"If only everyone was as reasonable as you, my wonderful little sister," you say and reward Ida by petting her head. "But you can let go of her. I imagine the point has been made."
"Okay~" Ida says with her voice dripping in contentement at being petted. You've been blessed with an adorable sister indeed.
Mara shows the sense to not argue further and retreats to her seat at the table. She does continue to stare at you, but you can hardly begrudge anyone being mesmerized by you as long as they stay in their place. Your charisma is simply too immense to resist.
"I'm sorry for my daughter's forwardness," Seran says.
"As you should be," you say. You move towards the table as well, but wait for your sister to pull her own seat close enough to yours, so she could remain in your petting reach, before sitting down. "I must say, your family appear rather careless to me. Even setting aside your current behavior, or letting Naoki getting this close to you, your house isn't even protected by a Bounded Field. That is a pitiful level of precautions with a war brewing."
Seran simply shrugs as he starts pouring tea for everyone. "The concern is appreciated, but I do have a rather solid security system installed and I doubt I can do much to stop anyone showing up on my doorstep with a Servant."
"What kind of security system?" Ida asks.
"Sensors on the doors and windows, motion detectors, those kind of things. It helps that most magi wouldn't event consider to check for further security measures after finding the magical defenses lacking."
"You're not honestly trying to present a lack of defenses as some kind of clever ruse to misguide possible intruders, are you?" you ask.
"Not exactly no," he grumbles. "But the alternative would be somewhat of a pain with all the customers entering the store."
"Mister Seran, do you know how you can tell that you're wrong on how important proper security is?" you ask. "You're disagreeing with me and my judgement is better than yours. Therefore, you are wrong."
For a moment he looks like he wants to say something, but then stops himself. "Alright, I accept your wisdom. I'll set up a Bounded Field. There is no more need to worry yourself over this topic."
"Wonderful. Then I shall have you repay me for my excellent advice, by allowing you to give me some recommendations of your own. Let's see, my research of the city was mostly limited to information relevant to the war, so I could use a local to point me towards good restaurants."
"When we eat out, it's mostly at the Koushuuensaikan Taizan," Seran says. "It's the only chinese restaurant in town, but also a damn good one. Assuming one likes spicy food, very spicy food. Besides that..." he looks towards his daughter for support.
"First off I'd like to add that the two of you should definitely give the mapo tofu they sell a try. I'm sure their spiciness in nothing you can't handle," Mara says. It's only now that she takes her eyes off you, taking a piece of chocolate to eat while she considers the question.
"If you ever feel like picking up some sweets on the go," she eventually continues, "Edomaeya is probably your best pick here in the shopping district. Their taiyakis are pretty good, but they've got a limited selection. So, if you want to sit down and dig down into some cake, the tea shop at Verde might be a better choice."
She continues on like that, listing Tonios, a stylish italian restaurant, and the ice cream parlor Lovely Freeze here in Mount Miyama. The later especially catches Ida's attention with a special couple sized sundae. There's also the Minato sushi bar, a rather high quality establishment that Mara can't afford to actually visit herself, and a coffee shop famous for having a very colorful clientele in Shinto.
It starts to occur to you that the father might own quite a bit to his daughter helping him out. After all, she's also the one that found him his assistant, even if upon asking her reason, it was simply that he's fun to keep around and she figured he'd be competent at the job.
Still, she did provide you with useful answers, so you decide to reward her with further conversation. Her first topic request, your Servant, gets denied for practical reasons, though you don't think she even realized that would be your sister. Luckily, her next request is the more interesting topic anyway. Yourself.
Thus, you spend the next thirty minutes illustrating a tiny fraction of your glory before it becomes time for you to go. It's sadly all the time you can afford, seeing how the journey back to the castle takes a significant amount of time. Still, the story of how you got permission from Acht to go out and have a picnic in the forest for Melsritt's second birthday should enrich their life. Your smile that day was the most beautiful thing she had seen in her short life up until that point.
The two of you say goodbye to the Serans and return to the front of the shop to pick up Idasviel's purchases.
You find Naoki talking with another customer, a british looking lad with short blond hair. Both of them glance in your direction, when they notice the door opening.
"That's the lady the package is for, right?" the customer asks. He addresses Naoki in an poor attempt to hide the fact he's staring at you.
Your infinite beauty has struck again.
"Indeed I am. Do feel free to address me directly, even if my presence is intimidating you with its perfection," you say.
"Right. So, uhm, go ahead and finish your business. I can wait for a moment, if you just have to pay."
"Of course. It's commendable that you know your place like that," you praise the unknown customer.
"Thank you, sir," Naoki says to the costumer. "I'll be back with you as soon as possible."
He leads you to the counter and you pay him. Ida eagerly picks up the box and gives you a beaming smile that's definitely worth more than some measly tens of thousands of yen.
"You've done well in helping me accomplish this smile, Naoki," you say. "But now we must depart. I hope we may meet again, so that you do not fall into despair from being deprived of our presence."
"Yeah. You Einzberns are surprisingly fun and given the strong first impression you made, that's pretty impressive. Anyway, I'm sure I speak for the boss, if I say that you're always welcome back."
"We'll see what we can do for you. Until then farewell."
"I really want to meet you again as well, Naoki," Ida tells him. "You're very kind and I think we have important similarities, like an appreciation for my elder sister, so I hope we see each other again soon."
The two of you also say your goodbyes to the other customer and then exit the antique shop. After a short walk, you reach the outskirts of town, where Mel had parked a car for you. Idasviel takes the driver's seat, while you sit down in the back and go over your plans for the first night of the Holy Grail War.
[] Patrol the city without a specific target. Getting a better feel for Fuyuki's layout can only help you in the long run. It is likely you'll come into contact with other participants, but that'll be easy enough to deal with when the time comes.
[] Seek out one of the Masters you know are participating for certain.
-[] The Tohsaka's Master.
-[] The Matou's Master.
-[] The Clock Tower's Master. Though admittedly you don't know the exact location of their hideout, only that it should be one of the higher class hotels in Shinto.
[] Visit the Overseer sent by the church. It is not strictly necessary, as they have already been contacted and informed about your participation before you made it to the city, but getting to know them in person can't hurt.
[] Stay at home and focus on sending out familiars to gather information on the other participants. It is unlikely that that anyone will try to assault your forest this early into the war, so you should be undisturbed for the night. It will be like on of those 'movie nights' you heard about.
[] Write in
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7: Night 1: The Emperor’s Seven Lights: Introductions
[] Seek out one of the Masters you know are participating for certain.
-[] The Tohsaka's Master.
You find the castle in impeccable condition, Melsritt's work is truly worthy of an Einzbern. Sadly, you do not have the time to fully settle in before you and your sister need to leave again to participate in the Holy Grail War. As such you content yourself with simple comforts. A hot bath, a massage and a four-course meal.
Melsritt's work gives you bliss as usual, though getting to share it with Idasviel elevates the entire routine to a whole new level. She's so excited through the whole experience, that you're pretty sure that without your insistence, she would have hand-fed you the entire meal instead of eating anything herself.
Alas, you have yet to earn a lead in the war that would justify lazing around, so you send word back to Germany to ask your family to look into Oliver Steube for you. Then you head out again together with Idasviel.
"Elder Sister, what do you want to do tonight?" Ida asks once she's behind the wheel of your car again.
"The same thing we'll do every night from now on, Ida. Try to win the Holy Grail War," you say.
"Of course, Elder Sister. Who will we murder first then?"
"I'm not entirely sure yet if we're going to kill them, but we're headed towards the Tohsaka's residence," you say.
"As you wish, Elder Sister. I hope they have enough class to at least not insult you with their very presence then."
"One would certainly hope that the lords of the land aren't some unruly miscreants."
Your conversation goes on like that, with Ida offering various ways that she could deal with the Tohsakas, if they do not live up to your standards. All in all it makes for a very comfortable drive.
It helps that Ida's access to the Riding skill made her driving impeccable. Allowing her to keep the car's movement perfectly smooth, even over the uneven surface of the forest road. She likely would have no trouble navigating the Benz around the tight corners of the suburb either, but given the position of the Tohsaka mansion, there was no need. All you have to do is drive around the edge of town until you reach the southwestern end of the suburb.
You find their mansion to be big enough to not be shameful... and not much else. It would have to at least double in size for you to consider it anything but tiny. Regardless, you have Ida park the car and get out of it.
As you take a moment to assess the surroundings, you can sense the presence of a Servant from inside the mansion. Further, it quickly becomes clear that the area is swarming with the familiars of Masters wanting to be keep tabs on the Tohsakas. The nearby Matou mansion is bound to be under similar surveillance, seeing how they lacked a defense comparable to the Einzbern Forest. Something to keep in mind, in case you end up having a confrontation out in the open.
Walking closer to the Tohsaka mansion, you find that the Bounded Field surrounding it is magnificent. Not simply immense in the way that the Bounded Field surrounding the Einzbern Forest is, but sophisticated to an extent that wholly transcend what modern magi are capable of producing. You'd wager the Rheingold on this being the work of Caster.
Though there's something else about the field. You can't quite put your finger on it by simply looking at it from the outside, but the way magical energy flows through it was off. If you had to guess, you would say that it was built on eastern principles instead off western ones. Naturally, there have been eastern magi distinguished enough to become Heroic Spirits, but the Holy Grail itself is so closely tied to western concepts that the summoning of any Servant not tied to the western cultural sphere is inherently an irregularity.
You smirk. It seems like the Tohsaka Master wouldn't be a disappointment.
Despite how powerful the Bounded Field is, you're confident that you and Ida could force your way inside, but that would be rude and needlessly combative.
So you ring the doorbell instead and wait.
And wait.
And wait.
After over a solid minute of waiting you ring again.
And again.
In fact, you're not going to let go of the button anymore until someone finally show up.
"Ida, It appears like I'll need to grow the Tohsakas a new set of ears," you say while impatiently tapping your foot. "If things continue like this, I'll let you cut off their old ones."
"Ah, Elder Sister, you're still thinking of my well being even when you have to suffer such indignity. How considerate of you."
Before you can respond to your sister, the door of the mansion finally opens. Outside steps a boy in his late teens, with black hair tied back into a ponytail that reaches slightly past his shoulders. He's wearing a black waistcoat over a dark red shirt and matching black pants.
His blue eyes carry a hint of irritation that's matched by the strained smile spoiling his handsome face.
Oh, so he is annoyed. The nerve. He should be on his knees and thanking you for alerting him to your presence.
"Excuse me, but I was not expecting a visitor tonight of all times," he says, slowly walking towards the front gate. His gaze shifts between you and Ida, before finally settling on you. "At least none that would bother to ring at the door." He stops out of arm's reach of the gate.
"Yes, we're being very merciful by giving you an opportunity to talk with us instead of simply burning your house down. You should be showing us some humility in return and praise the name of the great Karisviel von Einzbern," you say, while putting a hand to your chest for emphasis.
The Tohsaka snorts.
"Don't you dare!" Ida growls at him. "You may be a sexy hunk, but that doesn't mean you get to be disrespectful to my elder sister. The least you can do is introduce yourself."
He fixes Ida with a wry smile. "Akihiko Tohsaka. I don't imagine you're willing to return the favour?"
"Of course I would. I am Idasviel von Einzbern, thank you for being interested in me, even though my much more amazing sister is right there," Ida says and bashfully offers her hand to him.
"I was referring to the other name, even if I have no idea how you people managed to break the summoning system even further."
You sigh. "The second most beautiful woman in the world offers to shake your hand and all you can muster is a boorish question that is too blatant to get any results. What a pitiful display. I thought the Tohsaka's philosophy was elegance in all things?"
He scowls at you, but whatever he was planning to say gets cut off by another voice coming from inside the mansion.
"The lady got a point, bro," the, you assume, other Tohsaka twin says as he emerges into sight. He has the same handsome face and dark hair as his brother. Although his was cut short, making it easy enough to keep them apart at a glance. The fact he was dressed much more casually with an unbuttoned red jacked also helped.
"I keep telling you that you need to ease up a bit," he says as he reaches Akihiko and ruffles his hair. Ignoring his brother's growl, he turns to you and Ida. "Nanahoshi Tohsaka. I'm sorry about my brother. He's gotten even stiffer than usual after getting the spot as a Master."
He takes Ida's still outstretched hand and plants a kiss on it. "Still, that's hardly acceptable when dealing with two beautiful ladies."
"Ho, so it seems like at least one of you knows their manners," you say.
"Thank you, I do try. Now, how about we continue this conversation inside. We're hardly having a private conversation right now."
"Ah, how forward. What would your mother think?" Ida asks, nervously playing with her hair.
"I think she'd understand, but she left town for the war, so there's no need for her to even know."
Akihiko tries to say something, but his brother silences him again. By now you have a pretty good idea which of the two was born first.
Ida, your much better behaved younger sibling, looks at you pleadingly. You can hear her voice in your head through the telepathic link between Master and Servant.
"Can we, Elder Sister? I know Nanahoshi isn't a Master, but it's like he's asking me to slowly strangle him to death. Maybe I should make him watch his brother's death first as foreplay? Then there'd be nothing left to distract him."
"Patience, Ida," you mentally send to her, as you pet her to calm her down. "But don't worry, if Nanahoshi decided to stay back in town, then he likely plans to serve as a spare to inherit his brother's Command Seals in the case of his death. Meaning we'd have to kill both of them if we want to be sure either way."
Ida gives a wistful sigh and patiently waits as ordered.
"Nice try." You say to Nanahoshi. "But you'll have to do better than that to get me into the territory of a Caster."
Just then your Command Seals send a throbbing sensation through your body and you see Akihiko grimacing.
"Elder Sister—Servant—to the west."
Idasviel rushes past you without the need for a verbal command. The attack soon comes, a line of bronze tearing through the night sky. However, its aim isn't any of you, but rather your car. The impact tears the vehicle apart, scattering flaming pieces of metal across the street.
"Looks like somebody else can't stand your back and forth anymore," Akihiko says.
You ignore his drivel for now, as if anyone could ever grow tired of hearing your voice, and focus on the attacker—Archer?—instead. You can already see the light of his next projectile approaching. Judging by it, you'd estimate Archer to have set up about two and a half kilometers to the northeast, where the first multi story buildings started to crop up in Miyama Town.
You have two mere second to make your observations before the projectile collides with Ida's spear. The arrow gets obliterated on contact; not the mana channeled within it. Now free, it tears through the air as a blinding light that rips away even your capability for thought.
Once you regain your sight, you find the street picked clean of the debris of your car.
"Though, I'd be willing to extend my brother's offer to granting you protection from Archer," Akihiko continues. "We can hardly let you be killed for trying to negotiate with us. Especially seeing how Archer likely moved on to you after deciding that you're a much easier target than Caster." The amount of smugness in his voice would have elicited eye rolling from a less disciplined person.
You continue to ignore him as you pull out a couple of your hairs and turn them into familiars. The Storch Ritters form a shield wall between you and Ida.
The next arrow collides with Ida.
Having to face the attack directly would undoubtedly shatter your familiars, but with Ida facing the brunt of the attack for you, they can at least deflect the ensuing shockwave. Standing in your self-made eye of the storm, you could see how the raging mana simply washed over the Bounded Field protecting the Tohsakas without so much as rustling a leaf.
"Do not worry, Elder Sister. My love for you makes me invincible. There's no need for you to accept an offer you do not want to," Ida says. Her arms are still shaking ever so slightly from the force of impact they had to endure.
"Your efforts are appreciated," you say.
Despite her claims, your sister won't be able to withstand Archer's onslaught forever.
However, she is reliable enough to make Archer's attacks irrelevant.
After all, the Bounded Field was still right there for you to take refuge in. A careless, arrogant, self-deluded fool like Akihiko might simply take that safety as granted. You on the other hand are a highly competent genius.
As such you refuse to let Archer whip you into a frenzy and take stock of two simple truths that don't escape your keen eye.
First, one of the familiars stalking the mansion ought to belong to Archer's Master, eliminating the need to send his Servant to investigate it for him instead.
Second, despite likely being privy to your conversation, Archer is not trying to lure you away from the Bounded Field. Instead he made a mock show of cutting of your means to escape.
The conclusion seems simple. Just as Akihiko sees the Bounded Field as an impenetrable barrier, Archer sees it as a cage for culling his prey. And he wants to force you into it.
There's only one detail not readily apparent even to your genius. Akihiko or Archer, which of the two was the bigger fool?
A fraction of a second before the next arrow hits.
It would be best to make a decision quickly.
[] Seek protection inside the Bounded Field
Even a genius of your level can't easily understand Caster's Bounded Field and this wouldn't be the first time a magus underestimates exactly how big the gap between themself and the magi of old is.
[] Retreat
This isn't your fight and the lack of a car does fairly little to effectively limit your mobility. Idasviel can effortlessly match the speed of a car on foot and carry you at the same time.
[] Go on the offensive
Archer is sorely mistaken, if he thinks he can involve you in his fight without suffering the consequences. Punishing him for his insolence is only the natural thing to do.
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8: Night 1: The Emperor’s Seven Lights: Into the Cage
The third arrow collides with Idasviel's spear. As the impact rocks the street and your sister hurries to regain her stance, you make your decision. There's hardly a point in risking a continued bombardment, even if you're quite confident in Ida's ability to properly defend both you and herself.
"Come Ida, we'll take the Tohsakas up on their offer. I fear you might not get the chance to satisfy yourself with them, if we leave them to their own devices," you say. You call your familiars back and have them sit on your shoulder in their bird form.
"How magnanimous of you as always, Elder Sister," Ida cheerfully says as she abandons her defensive position and skips next to you.
"I will simply pretend you have come to your senses," Akihiko says in misguided exasperation.
With a snap of his fingers you can feel the section of the Bounded Field covering the properties entry dissolve. You make sure to cross the threshold at the same time as Ida, you'd rather not risk him separating the two of you. As soon as you're inside the field, it closes itself again.
The very moment it closes, there's a crackle of energy as something bumps into it from the outside.
"I am afraid you have not been invited inside, Assassin," Akihiko says.
You turn around and see a figure obscured by a black cloak that only reveals a bone white skull mask. Of course, nobody else had any artifact from the Kyoto incident, so with the Einzbern's Avenger gambit not in play, the Assassin class would inadvertently act as a catalyst for one of the original assassins, those that bore the title of Old Man of the Mountain.
Strength: C
Endurance: C
Agility: A+
Mana: C
Luck: E
Skills:
Presence Concealment: A+
Hides one's presence as a Servant. Suitable for spying. It is possible to disappear completely and become almost impossible to be detected, even against a Servant's perception. However, efficiency will decrease once preparations to attack are taken.
Noble Phantasm
Unknown Zabaniya
A divine miracle that serves the Assassin in assuring the death of their target. The specifics are currently still concealed from you.
"My Master has asked me to look out for the Lady Einzbern. As such, I'd rather not leave her alone in your care," the Wraith says in a gravelly voice.
That's… possibly concerning. You're certain that Assassin couldn't sneak through the Einzbern forest without disturbing some of your defenses, but for all you know he could have started trailing you the moment you left your territory, without you noticing anything.
"Ho? I suppose it speaks in your Master's favour, if they care about my wellbeing," you say. "However, I do not appreciate the clandestine behaviour. Approaching me out in the open and on your knees is much more conductive to my well being. It also has the advantage of earning you my good will, when compared to sneaking around like someone planning to assassinate me. Though one can hardly blame you for desiring to watch me behave naturally, as inappropriate as that may be."
As you talk, Assassin slowly turns towards you in a motion that—in contrast to his voice—is perfectly smooth. His cloak doesn't show so much as the movement of his shoulders, he simply spins in place until his mask faces you.
"But there is no need for you to despair just yet, we currently have an ideal opportunity for you to display your devotion towards my person. Go ahead and distract Archer, while I converse with the Tohsakas. At least for as long as you're capable without dying, I'd hardly want an admirer of mine to die before I deem it necessary."
There is a fraction of hesitation before assassin speaks, "Very well."
Shortly afterwards, Archer's next arrow descends upon his new target. Assassin jumps backwards to dodge, the hem of his cloak gliding over the ground like a rippling shadow. Currently, Assassin isn't concealing his presence, indicating that he indeed plans on serving as a target for Archer, or that they're working together.
"I do not think a distraction will be necessary," Akihiko says as you rejoin the others on the way inside the mansion. "There's nothing Archer can do to us here, after all."
You simply stare at him in incredulity, until you're inside the mansion, hidden away from the familiars outside. "We are not spending the entire night here simply waiting for the enemy to breach your defenses."
"Maybe that's been the Tohsakas' plan all along? To get two beautiful women to spend the night with them," Idasviel says as she snuggles against Nanahoshi, who for his part seemed happy to lay an arm around her hip. "Not that a tasty looking man like you needs any pretense to get my attention. My elder sister, on the other hand, is too good to waste her time on entertaining the two of you. So I'd be happy to make it up to you, if you could dedicate yourself to serving her right now."
"I'm sure my brother can handle that part. Right, Bro?" Nanahoshi asks as you enter their living room.
"Yes. You'd frankly be doing me a favour by occupying that… woman," Akihiko replies in a strained voice. Which is weird, seeing how he should be rejoicing. No matter how lovely Idasviel is, he is the more fortunate one for being allowed to attend to you.
"Ah, I'm not sure if it's acceptable for me to hog one of you before my sister has been tended to," Ida says, while glancing towards you.
"Don't worry, go ahead and enjoy yourself," you tell her.
She happily obeys and seats herself next to Nanahoshi on a small couch at the wooden table in the center of the room. You and Akihiko meanwhile sit down on two chairs facing each other.
"Now then, there has been enough fooling around from you," you say. "We will do something about Archer, which means you will assist us with your Servant. Otherwise I refuse to play along with your negligence."
"I'm starting to think you may have our positions in this situation reversed," Akihiko says.
"It isn't my problem, if you're under the false impression that I could ever not be in control of a situation. You will pull your own weight, or we'll leave again."
"Come now, bro. You can't do that to me… and them," Nanahoshi says, as he leans forward to grab a bowl of sweets.
Akihiko makes another overly dramatic sigh and says, "Come Caster. If it placates our guest, you might as well show yourself."
"If my Master insists," Caster says as he materializes next to Akihiko. His mouth is hidden behind a wooden baton he's holding in his right hand—a shaku—matching the Heian Period style clothing he was wearing. The wide sleeves of his black robe are embroidered with pentagrams stitched with white thread.
His eyes are a dark hazel, leaning towards a golden color, contrasting his pale skin and silver hair that's emerging from under his black hat. As you meet them, you can tell that both of you know that his identity is rather obvious. If one went to the trouble of summoning a magician from the Heian Period, there is one that clearly stands above the others.
Class: Caster
True Name: Abe no Seimei
Master: Akihiko Tohsaka
Strength: D
Endurance: C
Agility: B
Mana: A+
Luck: A
Skills:
Territory Creation: A
Creates an area that is advantageous to oneself as a magus.
Able to create a 'temple' that is superior to a 'workshop' and wards off evil
Item Construction: A
Allows the creation of tools that carry magical energy, assuming one has the necessary material.
Specialises in the creation of Ofuda talismans holding a vast array of magical spells and enchantments, but isn't limited to their creation.
Divinity: C
Caster has gained a moderate rank of divinity after being enshrined in the Seimei Shrine in Kyoto.
Onmyōdō: A++
Represents Caster's mastery of the various applications of the Japanese school of thaumaturgy Onmyōdō, as well as its philosophical foundations.
Clairvoyance: A+
A manifestation of the spiritual powers inhabiting Caster's body as the son of a kitsune, granting him supernatural senses that allow him to perceive spirits and see through all kinds of concealment and illusions. It further aids him with various forms of divination he has mastered.
Robust Health: B
Represents a healthy body free of sickness and disease. Enhances the Servants Endurance, while reducing damage taken from physical injury, poison and diseases.
A result of Caster's spiritual powers having protected him from ever falling sick in life.
At least that explained why Akihiko had been somewhat unwilling to have his Servant reveal himself. The weak have to cling to every advantage after all.
"Congratulations Akihiko, that is a rather impressive Servant you have manage to wring out the throne's clutches," you say. You may not feel like complimenting him, but people of his caliber—that is to say not as wonderful and perfect as yourself—do not have the same assurance that they're always doing something praiseworthy that you have. As such it would be cruel not to grant it to him when appropriate.
"Of course," Akihiko says. "For a moment I was worried that you're even deluded enough to deny that my Caster is a first rate Servant, even ignoring the benefits he gains from the local cultural sphere."
"Kufufufu, it is bad form to let every single bit of praise get to your head, Akihiko," you say. "As a Servant, my sister is in a class of her own. As such, all other Servants can only hope to be second rate at best. But don't worry, when measured against the peak, even second rank is quite impressive.
"Regardless," you continue, this time addressing Caster, "what would you advise your Master to do."
"In truth? My summoning was rather abrupt, which left me with little time for my divinations. Thus, I would advise my Master to avoid any unknown elements and to banish you from his home. At least for the night."
"I am starting to see your point, Caster," Akihiko says in an unseeming display of his bruised ego. "Still, I don't think their presence is going to be any problem for us."
"Fuck! You bit me!" Nanahoshi screams as he jumps away from Ida.
Your sister just blinks at him confused, while slowly closing her mouth. "Well, yes. You said it's finger food."
"That doesn't mean you're supposed to eat the fingers! Who does that?!"
"I do? I'm sorry about the misunderstanding. Please don't hold it against my elder sister, I'd hate to inconvenience her."
As your sister apologizes, you take a look at his hand. He must be heavily overreacting, given that you don't even see blood. When he notices you looking at his hand, he starts to panic, prompting you to take a closer look.
He quickly wraps his other hand around the finger to hide it, but not fast enough to escape your keen eyesight. Idasviel had bitten down deep into his finger, but there was no blood in the wound. Instead the gash reveals paper.
You turn your focus to the flow of magical energy within the Bounded Field to confirm your suspicion. Under various layers of magic you find what you are searching for, a faint trace of magical energy flowing from the land into the Tohsakas. Some of it even leaked out of Akihiko, mimicking the mana flow from Master to Servant.
It appears you've not been dealing with them in their flesh, but with some kind of puppet or shikigami made by Caster to operate within the Bounded Field. Sadly, you do not have the time to appreciate the craftsmanship. Their current forms are disposable, which means they have nothing to lose from knowingly sitting in a trap as bait.
A very underhanded strategy, if your guess is right—which of course it is—but the mere act of opposing your claim for the Grail was already vile enough that you can't be surprised by any atrocity.
"I was worried something like this might happen," Caster says. His voice is calm, but he's looking at you like some kind of vermin, annoying and in need of extermination. If you were any less assured of your ability to survive, you'd feel a shiver run down your spine.
You can still feel Assassin's presence outside.
"There's no point in attempting to talk you in letting us out again, is there?" you ask Akihiko.
"No-"
Ida, stab him. You telepathically order your sister without waiting for Akihiko to finish his sentence.
At the command, Ida goes from being confused at the turn in the conversation to gleefully hurling herself at Akihiko. The next instant, Akihiko is impaled on Ida's spear and pinned to the ground. The impact left his head dented in a distinctly wrong shape.
Ida's smile falls as she twists her spear a couple of times and still doesn't manage to draw any blood.
"They're some kind of dolls, not the real people. Cut them down."
"As you wish, Elder Sister." With that your Servant spins her spear in a circle to bisect the false Akihiko.
"So… I'm going to leave this to you. That alright, Caster?" Nanahoshi says, while nonchalantly leaning back on the couch.
"Of course, young lord," Caster answers. He claps his hands together and the two Tohsakas lose whatever essence made them appear indistinguishable from the real people in the first place. You wonder where their real bodies are. With a Caster capable of predicting the future, you doubt they would still be in the mansion, at least if Archer's coming attack is nearly as dangerous as you assume. There aren't many locations in the city that can measure up to the Tohsaka's mansion, when it comes to access to the local leylines.
"Though, truth be told, knowing what comes next, I doubt there's much point in you two struggling," Caster says to the two of you.
"I admit the self-confidence is rather attractive," Ida says. "And I could stare at your eyes all day after figuring out a way to conserve them in a jar, but my Elder Sister isn't going to die to a simple trap like this."
You meanwhile ignore Caster and start searching the room for metal. There's a chandelier and some cutlery accompanying a tea set in one of the cabinets. Archer is unlikely to unleash whatever he's planning to attack the house with until after Assassin retreats, so that still gives you some time to prepare a defense.
"Maybe, but I can hardly let my Master's plan fall apart on such assumptions," Caster says.
The paper halves that remained of Akihiko begann to move again. One lurches towards Ida, while the other jumps at you.
Ida swats at her half, only for it to unravel into several long strips of paper inscribed with various symbols. They lurge forward to wrap themself around your sister. She can rip themself off herself easy enough, but to compensate for the short moment they constrict her movement she send a portion of her magical energy back to you.
Feeling your own mana after it has been refined by the Hero's Bridesmaid skill is an interesting sensation, but one you can focus on later. The three Storch Ritters on your shoulder fire at the doll, obliterating its head, shoulder and hip in short order. The pieces unraveled as well and you shift one of your familiars into a shield to stop their advance.
The Nanahoshi doll raises from its seat as well. It's not particularly threatening, unless Caster worked another trap into the dolls, but they're a nuisance to deal with.
Assassin's presence fades away.
Right, it appears you don't have any time to waste on their paltry tricks then.
"Idasviel, burn them down," you command.
"As you command, Elder Sister." Blue flames burst forth from Ida and paper trying to ensnare her burns away. Caster takes a step back from her, but the right arm of his paper shell still catches on fire.
"Good work, Ida," you say.
"Thank you, Elder Sister." She smiles in response to your praise and her flames flare up even higher to match the brilliance of her expression. They quickly spread, blocking your sight of the room as they beat against your shield. A great heat licks at your skin, even through your barrier.
After a second, the flames die down, revealing that that nothing was left in the center of the room besides Ida and ashes on the charred floor. However, even without Caster's puppet present, the Bounded Field is still intact and you can sense a surge of magical energy from Archer's direction. You'd have to celebrate your own greatness while working then.
"Excellent work, Ida," you say. "Now, bring me that cabinet with the cutlery."
"Whatever you wish, Elder Sister. I knew your brilliant mind would know exactly what to do."
As she heads off, you have your familiars rip the chandelier out of the ceiling. Revealing some kind of wires connecting it to the ceiling, which on further inspection are also metal. You send some of your mana through it and find that they connect to a vast network of metal. Are those the power lines you've heard of?
Whatever. You simply start the alchemical transmutation process. Your magecraft pulls as much metal as possible from the wiring to join the mass of the chandelier, while reconfiguring the structure of the metal to become more durable. With Ida's skill supporting your meticulous work, the material is exceptionally responsive to your magic. It's quickly reinforced to a degree that surpasses any mundane metal.
A loud thud accompanied by a clattering noise draws a sliver of your attention towards Ida, who has dropped the requested cupboard in front of you. She's kneeling next to you and staring at you with big eyes.
You send a couple of tendrils from your metal mass to the cupboard to gather up the cutlery and whatever other metal you could find. Hinges, handles, screws, depending on what Archer's preparing, every little bit could make the difference.
"Well done," you tell Ida and absentmindedly run a a hand through her hair, as you continue your work. She happily nuzzles herself against your chest. Normally, a person would be more worried about their own survival given the situation, but your wonderful little sister is still preoccupied with you above everything else. It's nice to finally have somebody that can keep their priorities straight.
The magical energy gathered by Archer releases.
Ida throws you to the ground; you move your refined metal to act as a shelter covered by your familiars for further protection.
You can feel the flow of the Bounded Feel warping, all of it being absorbed into the approaching Noble Phantasm. Through the senses of your familiars you can see how the wall… shifts. Creating and opening to grant the Noble Phantasm entry into the center of the mansion. The term arrow can't fully describe what you're looking at. It is a concept given form first and foremost. You do your best to grasp it before it detonates.
A conceptual Noble Phantasm that can pass through physical and magical defenses while absorbing their energy to empower itself. Likely tied to the legend of a Heroic Spirit that managed to trick his way inside an enemy's stronghold so they could destroy them from within.
Dust trickles down on you from the collapsed walls Ida is holding up with her back and lance. Blood is pooling around your legs after it flows down Ida's side. A piece of the debris has buried itself into Ida's side.
You gingerly pull yourself into a sitting position, mindful of the soreness covering your body. Thankfully your sister had managed to protect you from any serious damage. Regardless, you do your best to not let any pain show in your actions. Precious as your body is, Ida might be plagued by unbearable guilt knowing that she let so much as a single scratch damage your perfection.
Once you put some distance between yourself and the edges of the rubble, Ida pushes it all off you two. You can't help but notice the bloodstains covering most of the debris. She pulls a slab of metal out of her side, tosses it away and lets herself fall down into your lap.
You start healing Ida's injuries as you take stock of the situation. Her injuries are bad, but between your magecraft and the natural healing factor of a Servant, the bleeding was already stopping. Save further injuries, she should be restored to pristine condition within hours. However, she clearly wasn't in fighting condition right now.
While the familiars watching the house had been destroyed by the blast, you can still feel Archer's presence and the Bounded Field has been entirely devoured by his Noble Phantasm. It oughts to be only a matter of time until Archer exploits your lack of defenses to try and finish this botched attempt at murdering you.
"Elder Sister, you're so kind to immediately care for me, but please don't worry. My body isn't nearly as important as your own."
"Maybe, but I still care about your wellbeing." At your words, Ida purrs happily. You continue to talk. "Now come, we've already let Archer bother us more than enough. It's time to leave."
"I might be able to help with that," the gravelly voice of Assassin says. You turn to find him approaching. He isn't bothered by the rubble, seemingly gliding over the uneven ground.
"Ah, so you did survive," you say.
"Yes. Regrettably, I am not very suited to acting as a bodyguard, despite what my Master expects of me. As such, I couldn't do more than simply buy you some time. I'm relieved to find that you managed to survive on your own. Stealth, on the other hand, is one of my specialties. I would be honored by being allowed to safely lead you away from Archer."
[] Accept. Assassin has earned himself a smither of goodwill with his work as a decoy and you can put his help to good use.
[] Decline. You've had enough traps for this night to risk another.
Regardless of his offer, you'll
[] Tell him that Caster and the Tohsakas survived. Allowing them to fake their own death would give Caster plenty of time to gather power and prepare. There might be no worse turn of events when it comes to powerful Casters like him.
[] Say nothing concerning Caster and the Tohsaka. You're sure you'll be able to deal with him on your own when the time comes and the element of surprise might allow him to eliminate some of the competition for you.
