A/N: Hey guys, I'm back again after grueling days of work. I mean, my two jobs have been killing me and I am undergoing a promotion so more work for me, yay... Ugh, sometimes I wonder if I am tiring myself from all of this? I am gonna push that aside, I am here to bring you good timing, not how I feel about work. Also, I have been playing Code Vein and man I am in love with the game! To my readers, have you guys played Code Vein? If not, you're missing out on it. It's a good game. Now, as for this, I am publishing this on the first day of October and as you all know, we are almost close to the end of 2019. Can you believe it?
Enough about that, let's begin the story!
Henshin!
'Thought'
"Phantom"
Medusa was idly watching the people of Fuyuki City, seeing all of them clueless about what has been going on. That is until now.
"You certainly caused a ruckus yesterday, Phoenix," she said with amusement.
Behind her was the said Phantom who scowled as he sat on the ledge. "Don't remind me, Medusa." He glared at the memory of the fight yesterday before grinning. "But it was worth it."
Medusa raised an eyebrow upon his words. He wasn't agitated, he looked more… thrilled.
"That Yubiwa Mahoutsukai put up a fight when he got that new form," His grin faltered slightly. "But next time he won't be so lucky."
"I suggest you wait until you fully recovered," Medusa warned. "Our leader wouldn't want you to go into a battle rage. Don't disappoint or upset him. After what happened in the previous fights, we have to strategize since the mahoutsukai has that Servant."
"Yeah, yeah, whatever…" he huffed, recalling how even the fight was against the Ruler-class Servant. While he did experience a form of defeat by the mahoutsukai, he still got excited that someone, who wasn't a Servant, was giving him a fight he has been searching for. "We will fight again soon, Yubiwa Mahoutsukai. You can count on it." He vowed.
He may have been angry that he lost, but it wasn't going to stop him from defeating the mahoutsukai sooner or later.
At the airport, a plane landed in the airport of Fuyuki City. As the passengers exit the aircraft, one stood out amongst the people.
The woman appeared in her late teens and could not have been more than 17 or 18 years old. Her long golden blonde hair was styled entirely in large coils. Similar to Rin, she was wearing blue ribbons in her blonde hair. She was also wearing a long blue dress with sleeves that seemed to be easily detachable. Her bright blue dress was reminiscent of the color of the sky.
In one hand was a parasol while the other was luggage as she made her way out of the airport.
"So, this is Japan," she said.
The blonde headed for the arrival gate.
In the airport, the blonde spotted her butler waiting for her. He had come before her to make arrangements for her stay.
"Lady Luvia," her butler greeted her.
Her name was Luviagelita Edelfelt.
As Luvia sat in the limo, she opened the file she was given from Clock Tower. Clock Tower was more than just a university for magi. It was also an organization dedicated to the research of magic and keeping it a secret.
And it seemed that something was happening in Japan, specifically Fuyuki City.
Luvia was well-learned about Fuyuki City. It was the site for the Holy Grail War. Luvia did not manage to become a participant as all the Masters are chosen, and the Servants were summoned, but she was not here for that.
News spread about an incident in Fuyuki. It wasn't about the Grail War. No, it was from the sightings of strange monsters and golems. They were constructs of raw Mana that hasn't been heard for a very long time. Pure Mana barely exists, unheard of since the ancient times.
And it wasn't just the monsters that caught their interest; it was the person who fights them.
A 'wizard' was fighting them.
Some civilians took videos of the fights. While images were shaky, it still brought their attention when they witnessed the spells he created. The use of elements, using seals to bring out a weapon and even a motorcycle. His Magecraft skills and performance certainly caught their attention even from some of the well-known families of magi.
That being said, Luvia wanted to look into this predicament and what other events are connected to this matter. She knew one thing that she has to do.
She must see this 'wizard' in person before others do.
The Wizard's Fate
Chapter 7: Troubles with a Magus
It has been days since the fight against Phoenix, and for Wizard it was the first-ever fight against one of the more powerful Phantoms. Ruler was shocked to learn that even Phantoms have leaders to lead them. It made more sense to her, knowing that the Phantoms were targeting Gates because they needed to build an army that could spell trouble if that were to happen. But it was also the day Enrique unlocked Fire Dragon Style. While it is stronger than Fire Style, it increased his risk of falling into despair.
Ruler was concerned about the risks, but she knew Enrique wasn't willing to give in to despair. That being said, the Servant paid a visit to the Phantom during that night after the fight.
She could still remember that conversation with Dragon.
Flashback, 8 hours ago...
When she opened her eyes, she was greeted with the Underworld that the Phantom resides in. She looks around before seeing the Dragon. "Dragon."
"You again…" Dragon snorted. "What do you want?"
"I… I wish to know what happened when my Master fought Phoenix." She requested. "How was he able to achieve that power?"
The Dragon raised a muscle above his eye before standing in his full height. "The boy made a deal with me in case you were wondering. It is how he obtained Flame Dragon," He walked around her. "However, our deal brought him a consequence. It's like the old quote, 'Great power comes great responsibility.' He may have gotten more power, but he has increased his risk of falling into despair."
Ruler became worried about the information. Her own Master not only gained a new power, but the risk of falling into despair has increased.
"The boy is an interesting one, though."
Ruler raised her head to the beast. She never expected to hear something like that from the mighty Dragon. "Define interesting?" She inquired.
The Phantom glared at her for a moment and said, "He knows when to give the humans Hope, not willing to give up. I still remember what he said to me when we finally spoke to each other. Willing to risk his life to give them hope."
The dragon couldn't forget such noble words. The mahoutsukai wasn't willing to give up. The boy was willing to risk his life to protect others and hold onto their hope. He was indeed an interesting vessel if he had to admit.
It isn't easy for a human to earn a comment from the most powerful beings of the world. Dragons were feared for various reasons.
"My Master showed just how much he was willing to fight to protect everyone. Especially when he fought Phoenix to protect that child." Ruler said.
A snort was heard from the massive beast, glancing at the memory of the Underworld. The one thing his vessel always wondered. In the Underworld, the memory of his father. The vessel always wondered why he left and the reason. Even to this day, the Phantom can tell his vessel still questions about it. It just shows just how much hope he has, waiting for his father's return. The Phantom snorted with a huff before looking at the Servant. "Be warned, Servant, while he may have gotten more power, his risk of falling into despair has increased." The dragon then grinned. "Sooner or later, I'll be free."
Ruler glared at the dragon, "We will see about that, Dragon." If she learned anything from her Master, he wouldn't give in to despair without a fight.
The dragon's grin grew upon hearing the Servant challenging him. He enjoys a challenge.
Flashback over...
Ruler took a deep breath to relax her body. While she can't astralize anymore, she is somehow able to visit her Master's Underworld. The assumption is that it is some form of connection for her and the mahoutsukai. Not to mention frequently talking to the Inner Phantom that dwells within her Master in the night.
"Are you alright, Ruler? You looked like you were sleeping not too long ago," Wajima noticed, walking by the register after grabbing himself a cup of tea.
"I am alright, Mr. Wajima." She assured. "Just thinking is all. About what happened with my Master when he achieved… 'Flame Dragon.'"
"Ah, it makes sense since Enrique-san recently got his new power."
"You know, I find it curious."
"Hm?"
"When did you start crafting the Rings… and why only to those like that White Wizard and my Master?"
"Ah, well you see, since magic such as theirs is a scarce art these days, magic stones were barely used," The ring maker explained. "However, that doesn't mean I stopped when I first learned about it. The White Wizard was one of the very few people to ever come to me and ask to make Rings for his magic."
"So while there are barely any known mahoutsukais, you only made the Rings when they confront you and tell you about it and their proof?" Ruler assumed.
"That's correct."
Now Ruler fully understood the reason why Wajima is a Ring Maker. While those with the capabilities of magic are very rare, so is the ring makers since magic like the White Wizard's were forgotten for centuries. It now makes sense to her.
Speaking of mahoutsukai, Ruler noticed her Master isn't around. "Have you seen my Master, Mr. Wajima?"
"Oh, he told me he went to the local cafe to relax. He left when you were busy."
The mahoutsukai was relaxing at a cafe, enjoying his tea while sitting at a table. It was times like this that it felt peaceful for him. Especially after his fight against Phoenix. He shook his head, not wanting to remember that Phantom.
Phoenix was a strong Phantom and remembered how strong he was. Even when Phoenix tried to make Yuki's son fall into despair, while he was saved and the Phoenix was stopped, it still didn't change the fact that things will get tough soon. He hopes he can be ready by then… they will strike again sooner or later.
A chime of a bell was heard, so he turns his head to notice someone entering the cafe. While there were other customers in the cafe, he saw the person stands out amongst the rest.
She appears in her late teens and could not have been more than 17 or 18 years old. She has long golden blonde hair styled entirely in large coils. Similar to the Rin girl, she is wearing blue ribbons in her hair. She is also wearing a long blue dress with sleeves that looked to be easily detachable. Her bright blue dress was reminiscent of the color of the sky and in her hand was an ivory-handled parasol.
The raven-haired mahoutsukai blinked in confusion when he noticed she was scanning her surroundings before her sights set on him. Her eyes widened slightly before she approached and took the seat across from him. Seeing this confused him even further.
"Can I help you…?" Enrique asked.
"I'm looking for a place that can restore antiques."
He blinked before he sets the cup down, "Well, there is Antique Shop Omokagedō that is not too far from here." He answered. Mentally, he wonders why she would ask him specifically? She could have asked the locals since he wasn't from Fuyuki. It was a gut feeling that was telling him something was odd. "You can try to go there to get antiques fixed. Just go one block from this building, and you will see it at the corner to your right."
The blonde smiled with gratitude, "Thank you very much."
"Er….no problem." He shrugged.
"Forgive me, allow me to introduce myself. I am Luviagelita Edelfelt." The now named blonde introduced herself with a curtsy bow. "But please, call me Luvia."
"Pleasure to meet you, Luvia," Enrique replied.
"Nice to meet you too. If I may ask, what is your name?"
"Oh, my name's Enrique. Enrique Alderete." He introduced himself politely. "So Luvia, are you a tourist as well?"
"I'm here for business." She stated her reason.
"Oh, I see. What kind of errand are you doing?"
"Aside from checking the city, I was investigating strange rumors." The blonde clarified.
"What kind of rumors?"
"About the masked magician that reside in the city."
The American silently grimaced hearing that explanation. It seems that his battle against the Phantoms was now known to the public. Could she be a freelance reporter or something else? That could be possible.
"So there are magicians here?" He asked with feigned innocence.
"Perhaps," Luvia replied. "That's why I came here to confirm the rumors in this city."
"Is that so…" he took another sip, focusing on his teachings and immediately felt Prana in the air. It was coming from Luvia. Prana meant one thing: Luvia is a Magus.
'Crap…' He mentally grimaced. She must be one of the Magus sent by the Association to investigate the Phantoms' appearance in Fuyuki. He mentally calmed himself to avoid suspicion, he spoke. "So...I guess the antique store visit is part of your investigation?"
"Yes, I plan to visit other places later. The store just happened to be my first stop." She explained. "Can you take me there?"
"Uh…"
Ruler currently made sure the antiques were accounted for as well as adequately dusted. With the visit of customers, she wanted to make sure Wajima had everything ready. Sakura was here as well while Rider was elsewhere. Her best guess, seeing the possible locations of the Phantoms. Rider was an ally who, like herself, had no desire for the Grail. She only cares for Sakura's safety throughout the entire War.
Ruler was glad to have another Servant who will help them fight off the Phantoms, knowing of the threat they possess. The jingle of the bell caught her attention, her senses giving the obvious to who showed up. It was her Master.
"Welcome ba-" Ruler noticed the blonde-haired girl following behind her Master. "Um...who is she?"
"This is Luvia. She was looking for this shop, so I lead her here." The mahoutsukai explained to his Servant. "She came to this city for some errands."
"Oh, I see." The Servant can see through that little lie given she connected the dots immediately due to Luvia's posture. "Nice to meet you, Luvia."
"Enrique! Mind if you help Sakura at the register?" Wajima requested.
"Sure thing." Enrique accepted before looking at Ruler. "Give me a second."
Watching her Master walk to the counter, Ruler glanced at the Magus, her frown now present. She knew the real reason for Luvia coming to the antique store with the mahoutsukai.
"You knew he is the Mahoutsukai, didn't you?" Ruler narrowed her eyes at Luvia.
"I can tell from the Mana that he emits." She replied casually. "Despite no Magic Circuits, he is emitting the natural energy of the World very much so, thus unable to properly hide it. Even you being a Servant gives it all away."
Ruler's mood turned bitter. He was still undergoing his training, thus still grasping onto the full responsibility and teachings to be a true mahoutsukai.
"If you knew, then why didn't you act?" The Servant questioned.
The fellow blonde waved off. "Oh, come now. Do you think I would act now? I am merely doing my task regarding him."
"Task?"
"He is the rumored Mahoutsukai is he not?"
The Ruler-class Servant's body language noticeably shifted for a moment but changed back. That was a sign that she was right on the question.
"If that's so, why are you so insistent on speaking with my Master?" Ruler questioned the blonde Magus with a frown.
"He is an interesting one," Luvia replied, glancing at the mahoutsukai who was busy talking to a customer. "I wouldn't mind talking to him more often."
"Are you gonna ask him about his magic?"
"His Magecraft is a special one that no Magus has ever seen. He uses pure, raw Mana which is extremely rare for us. It makes sense that I wanted to study him."
"Eh?"
"Of course, it's not just me that has taken an interest in him. Other Magi families have heard of his exploits at this city." She continued. "While they don't know who he is under that armor, they will connect the dots sooner or later."
The Servant frowned slightly at Luvia's intentions. She knew about where her Master's magic came from. If the other Magi learn about the Phantoms being the source of his magic, she knew it would be disastrous to many people. Something her Master does not want to happen. Even his teacher would take the matter very seriously.
"I do not like the intentions you hold for my Master." The blonde Servant warned.
The Magus caught the tone in Ruler's voice. "Are you issuing a threat towards me?" She questioned.
"It is a threat. Don't try anything towards my Master." Ruler warned her with a frown. "If you do so, I will have no choice but to stop what you're planning."
"Even if you do so, what will you do after the Grail War ends?" She retorted.
"What do you mean?"
"When the Grail War ends, you'll disappear," The blonde Magus reminded the Servant.
Ruler froze at the reminder. She knew what happens when the Grail War ends. It was the most obvious thing. If the Grail War ends, then the remaining Servants disappear. Just the thought made Ruler concerned for once in her life. To disappear from her Master, it felt… unsettling.
The Servant wondered what could happen to him knowing the dangers of his magic. She knew it would be disastrous to the world if the magi try to capture him.
"Even so...I won't let you do something to him." She declared to the blonde Magus. "He's not a guinea pig that can be disposed of."
"I understand that. I'm not that inhumane to treat Enrique that way." Luvia replied. "I only want to observe him, nothing more."
Ruler remained cautious at her statement. Knowing how most Magi act, it's possible that she may try to capture him as one of the possible 'observation' methods.
"I'll see you later, Ruler. You too, Enrique." Luvia said her goodbye with a smile and left the antique shop, the parasol providing her shade from the sunlight.
Seeing Luvia leave the store, the mahoutsukai sighed heavily. His battles against the Phantoms have already been known to the Clock Tower. He knew that this would be bad for him if the fights are going to continue. He knew his act didn't fool the Magus, knowing that she can detect the Mana around him. He may have got her attention off, but she will come back to investigate him.
The Magus cannot find out the truth about their magic. There will be disastrous consequences if the truth ever comes out to them.
And so, he waited as night erupted the sky. His Servant and Wajima were already resting. He was patient, so it was no problem waiting. And then, he saw the seal appear across from him, prompting the teen to straighten his composure as his mentor appeared seated on the chair across from him.
"Enrique, is something the matter?" His mentor asked as the white Garuda landed on its master's shoulder.
"Teacher… I have some bad news…" Enrique said.
"Speak." White Wizard allowed.
"Somehow, the Clock Tower are becoming aware of the Phantoms… and me…" He announced.
The White Wizard froze, his grip on Hamel Cane tightening upon learning about Clock Tower being aware of the mess. "So they are finally aware…"
"What should I do, Teacher?"
The White Wizard was silent for a moment before he looks at his apprentice. "You need to make sure to avoid the sight of other Magi. I will handle the rest, is that understood?"
"Y-Yes teacher," Enrique bowed in understanding.
The White Wizard turned around before stopping for a moment. "One more thing, Enrique." He glanced at his student. "Well done on unlocking Flame Dragon… what you have done, shows how much Hope there is to not just you but for the world."
"Thank you, teacher," The raven-haired teen thanked. "I won't let you down on this trial. That I promise."
The robed wizard looked away before he used his Teleport Ring.
TELEPORT, NOW!
The mahoutsukai watched the White Wizard vanish without a trace, leaving him behind.
"I hope Luvia doesn't press me for more questions…" He sighed as he went back to his room to get some rest for the day.
London. This is the location for the headquarters of the Magus Association that goes by the title Clock Tower. Various Magi attend this place to create and enhance their Magecraft while increasing their social standing. But in reality, most of the issues involve pointless conflicts and struggles over power.
In one room, someone is contemplating about the entire situation. On the table, there lies several newspaper articles and reports — all of them reporting the existence of strange monsters at Fuyuki.
He is a man in his early thirties with long loose hair. He wore a red coat with golden ornamentation on its shoulders, and his face bore a tremendously sour expression.
"Waver," The White Wizard acknowledged.
The man looks back to see the robed wizard stepping out of the shadows. "You again…" Waver responded. He only knew a few people that were aware of his real name. The White Wizard was one of the few. "Why are you here?"
"Clock Tower," The robed wizard said. "They are aware of what I have hidden from everyone else. You and I both know the damage it can cause."
"I know...that's why I kept it quiet from every Magus I knew…" He replied. "But even with everything I did, someone will notice sooner, or later...some of the people at the Association heard the news at Fuyuki."
"You and I both know what he wants. The Holy Grail at Fuyuki. They want to use it to bring everyone into despair."
"With the Grail's power, it's possible. Magi from all around the world will soon notice what you're hiding, and they will go there to check it out."
"Just make sure they don't get more aware than they already are." White Wizard advised before using his Ring. "You know as much as I do, the enemies of hope aren't to be trifled with. It will only lead them to their deaths."
TELEPORT, NOW!
With his departing words, the White Wizard teleported out of sight as Waver watched him vanish.
Waver sighed, "Guess I have to remove those logs again…"
It was going to be a long day for him.
The next day, Enrique was driving his motorcycle as he chose to scout the area. His Servant sat behind him as he drives the vehicle. Today was the day the mahoutsukai continues to help Ruler learn more about the place. While she dislikes studying and has some knowledge about the era, she needed to be more familiar with today's age due to the incident on the day they met. Without the Grail providing her stay and herself being empowered by Enrique's Hope and Mana, she had to pick up what she knows throughout her stay.
"Excuse me, Master…" Ruler asked.
"Hm?" Enrique replied as he kept his eyes on the road.
The Servant was hesitant for a moment but wanted to ask him the question since it was necessary. "Are you feeling alright after what happened two days ago?" She asked.
The mahoutsukai was silent for a moment, thinking over the incident with the fight against Phoenix. "Well, I still feel fine," He replied. "Nothing bad happened to me after that fight, except a few bruises here and there but no big deal."
"Don't push yourself too hard, Master. You can get badly hurt like before." She warned, recalling the wounds he sustained during the fight against Phoenix.
"I know. Thanks for reminding me." Enrique smiled.
The two arrived at the public library after a couple of minutes of driving. Entering the library, the two looked for a table to occupy before the Servant was the first to take her seat.
"Wait here for a bit." Her Master said. "I'll get us some books to start with."
The Servant nodded as he went towards the shelves to pick up the books needed.
'To think the times have changed…' She thought to herself, thinking of what occurred in the past couple of days. When she was summoned, she expected the Grail to give her the knowledge of the current time. However, due to Dragon's presence within her Master, it disconnected her from it. Thus her knowledge of the era was limited.
She never expected to learn that there are still Mana magic users in the modern era and the fact that the Mana creates monsters hidden by human skin via the corrupted cores they hold. The same type of monster that gave Enrique his magic.
"I'm back."
Seeing the numerous books that Enrique brought onto the table, a sense of irritation is shown on Ruler's face at the thought of reading all of the books.
"I see you dislike studying," He observed the irritation Ruler has.
"… Y-Yes."
A sigh escaped his lips before moving over to his Servant.
"Let me help you," he insisted.
Seeing as how he was helping her, she complied and allowed her Master to assist her. The two spent their time in the library as the two were spending their time talking to each other while helping the blonde becoming more familiar with today's time. As much as she hated it, her Master was doing his best to help her. It felt like he was tutoring her, just like how the White Wizard tutored him with his magic.
It was something new to see from his Servant. Who knew that she didn't like to study in general. He honestly found it amusing to see her dislike it. He used to be like that as a kid. However, having to become a man of the house for his mother and sister, he had to grow up and help during the years.
After learning about more things about the world with her Master's help, Ruler decided to ask the question that's been bugging her ever since Luvia arrived.
"Master…"
"Yeah?"
"What are you gonna do about Luvia? She's taken an interest at your magic."
"To be honest...I'm not sure what her intentions are." He admitted. "There's no telling what she will do."
"Master, whatever happens, I won't let her try to catch you if she ever tries to do so."
"Thank you, Ruler." He thanked. He is grateful for her help with his job to defeat the Phantoms in Fuyuki City. The last thing he needs is being a wanted man for every magus in the Magus Association. From what he knew, every person of interest that is unique to them end up being in their operating table for the rest of their lives.
He won't let them use him for their gain.
The next day went uneventful for the mahoutsukai as there are no sightings of Phantoms for the day. Enrique is currently cleaning up the usual antiques that are on sale in the shop. It's one of his daily duties since Wajima is the one who gave him and Ruler a place to stay.
The mahoutsukai borrowed some of the books they weren't able to read from the library last time so that they can study them when they have time to do so. Yes, Ruler was irritated slightly, but she complied knowing the circumstances of her summoning as well as learning more information.
Maybe she could find anything interesting that pertains to her investigations as the mediator of the War. Sometimes having the most mundane of information could have their advantages.
"Ah, Rider." The mahoutsukai noticed the Servant. "Is something the matter?"
"Can I ask you something, mahoutsukai?" Rider asked Enrique.
"What is it?"
"I need your help in shutting down a Bounded Field."
"A Bounded Field?"
"Yes. Back when I still had my proxy Master, he told me to set up a Bounded Field around the school area. It's not active yet, but when activated, it will liquify all humans inside the field and turn them into energy."
"So you want to destroy the field before someone else activates it?"
"Only I can activate the field. But I'm worried that those Phantoms will find out about the field and attempt to activate it for their purposes."
"I understand why you want my help." He understood. "I never encountered the Bounded Fields before, but I'll give it a shot. At the school, right?" Rider nodded, making him think.
He needed to find a way into the school without arousing suspicion.
"I think we need Taiga's help in infiltrating the school."
"Why do you need her help?"
"Given I am not enrolled in a school and the fact that she is a friend who is willing to help."
"I understand." She nodded, knowing that he needs to avoid attention. "I will help you with the locations and take it down."
"Fine by me. I'll let Ruler know what I will be doing." He replied. "After that, I'll go talk to Taiga about entering the school."
"Ah, you want my help to go inside the school?"
"Yeah, I was hoping you can help me get into the school."
"Is it about a Phantom?"
He mentally reminded himself that she couldn't know the actual reason. "I want to make sure there isn't anything the Phantoms left behind."
"Oh, alright. You are probably going to need a uniform to infiltrate the school fully." She understood the problem.
"Appreciate it." He thanked. "Can you tell Sakura? I can't attract attention, after all."
"Sure thing! I am sure she will be delighted to see you there in the after-hours!"
She knew Sakura looked up to the mahoutsukai ever since the Hellhound incident. Whenever he has his fights, she would provide help in the store in his place.
"I bet she will." He commented with a small chuckle. "I'm gonna get ready for the infiltration. Maybe Wajima can create a Ring that can change clothes."
"That is useful. With that spell, you can carry a wardrobe of your own!"
"You can say that," Enrique replied with a smile. "Still, thanks for helping me gain passage to the school."
"Hey, it's not a problem Enrique. You saved two of my students and me, after all!" The teacher waved off. "You need all the help you can get in your battles against the Phantoms!"
"I appreciate it." The mahoutsukai was glad that Taiga is willing to help him for the duration of his Trial as a Mahoutsukai. "I'll go get ready for the job in the meantime."
"Be careful out there, alright?"
"I will."
With the sun starting to set, the mahoutsukai was glad Wajima made the Dress Up Ring which made it convenient. It was going to be useful for him in this task he is going to do with Rider. While he and Ruler often work together, this time it was with Rider.
When he told Ruler he and Rider were going, she advised them to be careful. Rider had no hostile intentions towards him or Ruler, only as an ally for the mahoutsukai.
Putting that aside, Enrique entered the school grounds and looked around. "Rider, you there?"
"I'm right behind you."
Looking over his shoulder, he saw the Servant astralize. "Did you already told Sakura about what you are doing?"
"Yes, and she understands the situation."
"Good." He said in relief. "While we take down the field, we need to make sure Shirou or Rin don't find you. They could find out about your connection to Sakura."
He didn't want to think about the results if they learn Sakura is a Master. He knew she didn't like anyone close to her getting hurt.
If they knew about each other, who knows what will they do. The mahoutsukai could trust Shirou knowing that he cared for Sakura and asked him about the Phantoms, but Rin? She may be unpredictable.
"What about you?"
"Huh?"
"If you were to be confronted and attacked by Master of Archer?" Rider questioned him.
"I'm not gonna kill her, but I will defend myself if it's necessary." He stated. "I think the Master of Berserker is more willing to kill me than her from what I saw back then." His spine shuddered at the memory. He was lucky that Ruler prevented the Servant from killing him.
"I understand." She remembered his previous speech when they first met after Sakura was saved. He held devotion to his ideals, not willing to kill to make ends meet. He isn't one to turn his back on a life in danger, no matter what.
Astralized, she followed the mahoutsukai while leading him to the locations of each seal.
"Which way is the location?" He asked. While he couldn't see her, his lessons from the White Wizard enabled him to sense the energy. His mistake of not knowing about Caster when she was in her disguise was a reminder to focus.
"The first one is in the school library."
"Got it." He looks around the school, taking stock of his surroundings. He never had the chance to see the interior of the school entirely. The only time he has been here was during his fights against Cait Sith and Gnome.
Seeing the library, he enters it and looks around. "Which shelf?"
"To the far right, third shelf."
Following her instructions, he took heed and looks at the books on the third shelf. Focusing on his lessons, he sensed the focus of Prana before he removes a book, seeing a symbol under the wood of the shelf.
"Is this the sigil?" He asked.
"That's the one. You can destroy it using your Mana."
"Like this?" He placed his hand over it and focused on his magic. The surge of Mana becoming focused before it travels towards the Sigil and just like that, erasing it.
"Okay, it seems simple enough," Enrique said. "Where to next?"
"Follow me."
Enrique followed her presence as she leads him to the next sigil. Thinking about it, a question comes to his mind."Rider, can I ask you something?"
"What is it?"
"Why would your proxy Master order you to set a field in a place like this? If I have to admit, it's unusual."
"If I have to assume...he is planning to trap the two Masters here."
"So he knew about Shirou and Rin from the beginning." He frowned slightly. When Masters know each other, it's typical of them to set a trap in a place where they often gather.
"That's not all. The field's true purpose is to convert people into energy for me to use. He wanted the students as sacrifices due to his body lacking Prana for me to exist."
His fist clenched slightly. While he knows what the Masters will do in a Holy Grail War from his teacher, he couldn't help but feel anger towards him.
"With Sakura as my Master, the field is now obsolete. You have your teacher to thank for that."
"So Teacher broke his control of you." He realized. While he doesn't know what he did precisely, his mentor returned Rider to Sakura and freed her from the Matous, the latter of which he still has questions about. What exactly did the family do to her in the past? It must be traumatic, seeing her reaction when he saved her from despair. Not to mention his teacher's warning about the Matous.
Shaking his head, he reminded himself he still has the Bounded Field to shut down. He could think about that later.
A few minutes later...
With most of the sigils dealt with thanks to Rider, all that was left was the last one. Walking down the steps, he stopped and glanced at the wall. There were cracks of an impact. His fingers brushed against it and sensed the minor trace of magic energy. Prana.
"Rin must have attacked someone here…" He assumed, knowing that Shirou couldn't have done this recalling seeing him with a bokken when he first fought Gnome.
However, he realized the trace was fresh, which meant…
"Crap… this mark was recent." Enrique frowned. "Rider, get Sakura out of here. Now."
"Understood."
He felt her presence fading; no doubt, she took immediate action. Grimacing, he quickly ran down the stairs to the second floor and saw more impact marks and then there was shouting and running.
"Seems like I have to take action." He frowned as he activates the Connect Ring.
CONNECT, PLEASE!
Drawing out the Wizarswordgun in gun form, he runs quickly and nearly stopped as he skidded to a halt, seeing Rin chasing Shirou.
He lifted the weapon but grimaced. However, he noticed one of the signs hanging by one of the doors. Quickly, he pulled the trigger as the silver bullet flew towards it and caused the small sign to fall onto Rin's head, forcing her out of her concentration and held her head. She rubbed the top of her head and looked down, seeing the small piece of wood to fall on her. The condition of the school isn't that old, so how did it fall on her head?
"Stop this!" A voice she recognized. Slowly, she turned around, seeing the mahoutsukai with his weapon lowered and a small frown present. His eyes focused and cautious. How did he even get into the school in the first place?!
"Why are you here!?" She all but demanded.
"Taking care of something for a friend."
Rin didn't know what he meant, but before she can demand a reason, she noticed something off. His Mana was slightly stronger than she last saw him. A part of her brought curiosity, but it was squashed down by the fact he was preventing her from killing Shirou.
"Stand down, or I have no choice but to fire." He warned her.
Frustration crossed her face before focusing on her Circuits, sending bolts of Gandr towards him.
"Gandr, huh?" He noticed. "Seems you can use long-range Magecraft." He quickly grabs his Ring and scans it on his buckle.
DEFEND, PLEASE!
The seal appeared when he held his hand out after scanning the Ring. The shots hit the seal, defending him from any damage.
"Now are you going to stop?" Rin's teeth gnashed together before aiming again. "Guess not."
Seeing a chance, she immediately threw a jewel at the mahoutsukai — the said object landing in front of him.
"Jewels? Never thought you would be so wasteful."
She felt her eyebrows twitched in annoyance but said, "Who said it was wasteful?" She informed.
"Eh?" Looking at the item, he saw it glow, forcing him to move back but the force of the explosion pushed him back forcefully onto the ground and smoke clearing. "Okay, exploding jewels." He coughed.
"Why didn't you transform? You can take that attack."
"I just need to distract you, nothing else." He replied but winced. He has to be careful. That jewel was dangerous. He did not want to know what else she can do.
Rin fired her Gandr shots once more, with the mahoutsukai firing his gun at every chance she makes to distract her. Unlike his weapon, her spells draw on her Prana reserves so he can tire her out.
Sensing that her attacks are not working, she then charged towards Enrique. Avoiding a kick from the Magus, he can feel the Prana surge across her legs.
"Classic Reinforcement spell huh?" He observed, not interested at all. "Is throwing expensive jewels and firing curses all you can do? I thought you could do better than that?"
"Don't mock my Magecraft!" Rin shouted in anger, feeling insulted that the mahoutsukai didn't see her as a significant threat. Typical of a prideful Magus. She kept attacking him with kicks and punches, but he continues to dodge them to the best of his ability.
"Just why are you doing this?" She exclaimed.
"What are you talking about?"
"You not just protecting a Master but also exposing what we are supposed to keep hidden!?"
"I only care to protect the people, even a Master," Enrique replied, evading her attack. "I am no Magus like you."
"In broad daylight, no less?!"
"Why do you care about that? You make it sound like you are selfish with the intent to hurt people to keep it hidden. Focusing on being a magus than a human being."
"I would never do that!" Rin denied.
"Then tell me, why are you upset over me saving lives?" He questioned. "Why you are adamant about studying me to get your place in Clock Tower? You truly have no idea what I meant when I told you I have seen innocent people die while I lived as the only survivor. How this magic I earned was from surviving a traumatic event."
She grimaced recalling his warning. Even to this day, she still wonders what happened to him.
"What I do is to help people from losing what they have as their hope. I care about the safety of their lives. Dangerous it may be, but I am willing to protect any life from danger regardless of who they are. Be it someone close or someone I don't know."
Rin's eyes were wide open, her left arm slowly lowering. He was willing to protect anyone from the despair that falls onto their lives. To help them hold on their hope and live with a better future.
Was his magic that important to him? To remind him of what happened to him in the past?
"Since Shirou is gone," He scans a Ring. "I should go now."
TELEPORT, PLEASE!
With the seal below him, he vanished from her sight.
Rin lowered her head for a moment but quickly looked at where he vanished again. "Did he just- with a- UGH!" She felt more frustrated now to the fact he left via teleportation.
Just what else can he do? And how did he get stronger? The mahoutsukai is getting her more frustrated by the minute.
Seeing he is back at the antique shop, he sighed with relief. He managed to stop the two Masters from killing each other.
Ruler noticed the expression. "Are you alright, Master?"
"I'm okay, Ruler," Enrique assured, rubbing his arm. "I stopped an attack earlier. Rin attacked Shirou."
"I see."
"I know you can't interfere in a fight between Masters and Servants due to being the Ruler of this War, but I can't let someone get killed." He explained. "That is fine, right?"
"There's no problem with it. As long as I don't interfere personally, it should be fine." She accepted his reasons. Her role as a Ruler is to make sure the Holy Grail War proceeds as planned and to make sure that no Servants should do anything to endanger the public. However, with recent incidents of 'gas leaks,' she had been investigating the causes and the Servant responsible during her free time whenever her Master was busy elsewhere.
Archer, Saber, Rider, and Berserker were not the suspects based on her encounters with them and their Masters. Which meant either Caster or Assassin is responsible. Her Master once encountered the former, but no one has ever seen Assassin at all.
She plans to ask her Master to help out with this soon once she gets more information. She knew that Caster or Assassin had noticed the Phantoms to which they may find out more about them.
"Master...can I ask you something?"
"What is it?"
"I'm going to see the mediator of the Holy Grail War that the Church sent. Have you heard of the recent incidents?"
"Ah, the gas leak incidents?" He recalled from the recent news. "Do you think a Servant did it?"
"Yes. I think the Church mediator could have some information we can use." She stated. "Any information we find could be useful for us to find the culprits behind the incidents."
"I see." He noted from his explanation. "Alright, we can go there now. I bet the mediator has noticed my activities in Fuyuki from the moment you're first summoned until now."
"Thank you, Master." The two left the shop to go to the local church.
The ride to the church was moderate, the mahoutsukai looking at the sights of the city. He recalled from the time at the library that Fuyuki City has suffered a massive disaster that occurred ten years ago, which engulfed the town in a fire.
He had to admire the people for preserving through and rebuild even in the aftermath of the incident. While the people suffered various scars since that day, they still lived on with their lives.
He can understand how they feel. Given what he went through two years ago, he suffered a similar incident that almost killed him.
His dark brown eyes took notice of their upcoming stop, making him slow the speed of his motorcycle. Stopping the bike near the stairway, the mahoutsukai turned off the engine as both he and Ruler removed the helmets. "We just have to walk up these steps?" Enrique asked his Servant.
"That's correct."
The two walked up the steps to the church, the mahoutsukai seeing the sights. After reaching the last step, the two saw the Church and approached it.
"Alright, we're here," Enrique said, looking at the church in front of him. "So this is where the mediator of the War resides in…"
"Indeed, and they are a supervisor from the Church." Ruler stated. "And Master?"
"Yeah?"
"After we finished our talk with the supervisor, can we stay for a while? I want to offer a prayer to God."
"Sure thing. Take all the time you need, Ruler." He responded.
They went inside the church, encountering a priest on the altar.
"Excuse me, Father, are you the one in charge of this church?" Enrique asked with a respectful tone. The man he was speaking to has short brown hair, but now it reached down to the back of his neck and brown eyes. He wore an entirely black ensemble of pants, boots, and a dress shirt underneath a long blue coat and wore a golden cross around his neck.
"Indeed I am, young man." The priest answered before studying the mahoutsukai. "I don't recognize you to be from around here, are you a visitor?"
"I am temporarily staying here in the city," He explained. "And… well…" He glanced at Ruler.
"I am here to meet the mediator of the Grail War," Ruler stated, "I am Servant Ruler, the new mediator for this Grail War."
The priest's eyes widen at hearing this before looking at Enrique. "I see, so you must be the Master of the Ruler-class Servant. But this is odd, from what I heard, Ruler-class Servants aren't supposed to have a Master to maintain neutrality."
"Certain circumstances lead to this predicament," Ruler explained bluntly.
"I understand. So, what do you wish to talk about?"
"I wish to talk about the current situation of the other Servants," She answered.
"What do you wish to know about the other Servants?"
She briefly glanced at the priest's arm for a moment before looking at him. "While the seven are here as part of the rules, how come one of them has been causing harm to the civilians? I have realized one of them has been draining the diluted mana from numerous 'gas leaks.'" The Servant frowned at the priest. "Do you know which Servant exactly is responsible for this?"
"I'm afraid I don't know very much about that." The man stated. "I have been doing some investigations myself."
Her amethyst eyes study the priest for a moment. "And did you make any progress or evidence of the Servant?"
"One thing I know for certain is that the Servant resides around the area of Ryuudou Temple from the trace of Prana."
"Ryuudou Temple?" Ruler asked. "Are you certain the Servant is in there?"
"I'm certain." The priest answered. "I will handle the rest while you and your Master check that area. I can tell that he has experience in battles like this one."
"Thank you for your efforts." She thanked. "If I may ask, may I perform a prayer here?"
"Certainly. A believer in God is always welcome here. Take your time." The priest allowed before leaving to the back of the church to perform the usual business.
Enrique observed the blonde Servant kneel before she clasped her hands together and closed her eyes. No doubt, she is praying to God.
'Ruler must be a firm believer of God.' Enrique thought to himself.
He still wondered about her actual name exactly. While she was summoned, their real names are names of history. He didn't ask her since he holds respect for the reasons given this 'game' they are involved in.
Then, his eyes studied her as she continued to pray. He was beginning to notice she was indeed very beauti–
The mahoutsukai quickly push that thought back in his mind. As a mahoutsukai, he can't think of such needs. He may be 18, but his mentor taught him to suppress such thoughts. Respect and manners were one of the few things the White Wizard drilled into him during his training.
And while he follows it, deep down, he felt a tinge of fear. He has never moved on since that day. The eclipse that changed his life. Drifting his head down, his eyes met the Flame Dragon Ring.
Being a mahoutsukai was more than simple when he is using the very power that led to others dying. Living while others died and freed the Phantoms.
"Master?" He felt a hand but nearly jumped. Lifting his head quickly, he saw Ruler.
"Oh, sorry, Ruler." He pockets the Ring. "You finished?"
She nodded. "But you?"
"I'm fine, really." He assured his Servant. "Come on, let's head back."
"Of course."
After the two leave the church, Kirei looks at the church grounds recalling the energy inside the young foreigner. It was pure Mana. The very mana the rumored mahoutsukai has, unlike the corrupted cores that are around.
"So he is the cause of the presence of pure Mana…" He mused. "Looks like things will change with his presence in Fuyuki."
"Looks like it." He looks back, seeing a man with golden blonde hair sitting on the chair. "There's more to that Master than it meets the eye. I sensed his Mana is growing, possibly without any limits if he ever reaches his full potential."
"Are you planning to confront him? He can be a threat to your plans."
"Not just yet. He's still a lowly mongrel right now." The man stated. "The fact that he fights those corrupted beings brings me amusement to this War."
"Even if he has a Ruler-Class Servant?"
The blonde scowled slightly at the reminder. "While I despise that woman for taking the title that is supposed to be mine, I shall let them live for now. Let's see what kind of entertainment he will bring for me."
The mahoutsukai will be interesting entertainment in this Holy Grail War.
A/N: And that is it for this chapter folks. Looks like things are taking a turn either for the worse or for the good. And it seems there is development happening between the mahoutsukai and Ruler. We just have to find out what will happen for everyone, later on, now won't we? With that said, I am glad I gave you all this chapter before I go back to my relaxation from work since I published this after I got off work. If you excuse me.
*Grabs a PS4 controller*
I am gonna play where I left off in Code Vein to keep myself from being upset from stress. Oh and also, I will be publishing a Code Vein story soon. Anyways, later!