However, right after the welcome dinner when he decided to go for a walk for outside, he felt something in the air.
I would like to thank Zetsuie2 for been the beta of this chapter and the great support and help that provided to this this story.
Please review.
"Ne…Tatsuya, you're joking, right?" said Leon after hearing the crazy request that Tatsuya had asked of them, while Mikihiko remains silent as he looked at all the presents.
Just a few minutes ago, he got a telepathy message from Tatsuya, asking him if he could come to his room for a moment, because he needs to talk with him about something important. The only thing he could think of that he would want to talk about was that event with the intruders on the night we arrived.
Mikihiko got dragged here by his childhood friend Erika, forcing him to come even though he didn't have much interest in it. In the past, he wouldn't have let her but ever since he had begun learning from Sakura-sensei, he experienced exponential growth of his powers to the point that his family was completely astonished. His progress is such that everyone agreed he completely surpassed his former self. It is for that reason that when his family learned that he was invited to compete they offered to pay for the full cost of the trip. A peace offering of sorts. For when they removed his position as heir of the clan. At first, he didn't want to accept but Erika swiftly intervened and he ended up here in the hotel where the competition will take place.
After the welcome dinner he decided to get some fresh air so he can review the recent events of his life. Since he began to receive lessons from real teachers, he had made unbelievable progress, meanwhile with the implementation of the magic crest in all the Thaumaturgy students, he was not the only one that was making visible progress. While still in thought, his senses were triggered. There is something in the air. He could tell it was dangerous. It was near. Promptly, using the magic of his family and what he had learned from his new teachers he managed to detect a group of armed men that were trying to sneak inside the hotel.
Doubting they have good intentions, he decidedly began to charge his new magic crest as he ran towards the suspicious men. They were running behind a wall of bushes. While he was about to get close he suddenly felt the air spirits tell him that he should attack now and which he did. Choosing to trust what the spirits were telling him, he released his lightning magic which shocked and left them unconscious. He took a moment to watch his work when Tatsuya arrived. Looks like he had also detected those men and was about to stop them himself, but now he made it unnecessary. The two of them were about to see what they could learn from intruders when a group of men claiming to be security showed up saying that they will take care of the situation and requested to keep this incident in secret. On their way back to the hotel Tatsuya said that those men looked more like soldiers than security officers.
They finally arrived back inside the hotel, when looking around he saw his childhood friend Erika that was also with Mizuki. Nothing too strange considering that Erika invited her, but what was truly strange was the presence of Miyuki, Mayumi and Suzune. Even with all the rumors that are running around about the kind of relationship that Tatsuya had with the first course girls, he didn't pay them much attention. Erika however, spoke the question that was on everyone's mind.
"By the way, it's not that I am complaining but why are you suddenly supporting this idea?" asked Erika as she looked at Mayumi, Miyuki and Suzune.
"Since the beginning we were against the two-course system and this is the perfect opportunity to show that it is useless, besides we really want to see what you really are capable of doing, Ne Tatsuya?" said Mayumi as she wink at Tatsuya.
"I knew it, the rumors were really true! So…what you really want is to Tatsuya win this competition so your family will approve your relationship with him! Ne? Ne? Please count me in!" said an excited Erika.
"That is soo romantic. I support you at 100%!" said Mizuki who started tearing up behind her glasses.
"Ne, Mikihiko, can you call yourself a man when you do not support a forbidden romance. This is the time to show your manly side" said Erika and before he had the chance to reply someone dropped a bomb that left him speechless.
"Actually, I also want to show the world what Tatsuya-kun can do." said Suzune as she sits next to Tatsuya and rests her head on his shoulder.
"KYAAA!, A LOVE TRANGLE WHERE TWO OLD FRIENDS COMPETE FOR THE LOVE OF THE SAME MAN!...THIS IS ROMANCE! THIS IS DRAMA! THIS IS LOVE!" cried Mizuki emotionally.
"Ora ora, and you three are fine with this?" asked Erika. Shocked since her joke seems to be the actual truth.
"Actually…it is the four of us, right Miyuki?" said Suzune.
Miyuki who had remained in silent all this time was feeling many different emotions. While she knew that part of that was just a game to make her onii-sama blush. She also secretly wishes it was real. She knows she will have to make a decision about what she felt about this, but for now the only thing that she could do is nod with her head and blush furiously.
"I did not see that coming…" said Leon. After a moment of silence, said. "…By the way even if we agree to participate, I had to admit that range attack magic is not my thing."
Tatsuya, who so far had remained silent this whole time suddenly stood up and walked to the other side of the room where some luggage was next to the wall while he briefly sends a telepathy message to the girls that they will talk later.
Removing something from it, he shows Leon what it looks like a bladeless hilt of a sword.
"What is that?" wondered Leon. He held it up to the light to inspect it.
"A new magic tool based on the Schlachtschwerter sword, it had a specialized CSD that stored a few tons of water and a bouldering field protector in the shape of the blade of that sword, depending in the control and energy you can manipulate either the size, form and power of the blade, in few words it can either cut a tank in two or just hit a person."
"And for Mikihiko, why don't you try this?" said Tatsuya as he throws him a grey coat with a hood.
"What is this?" asked Mikihiko.
"As you know in the past Avalon Tech had been selling clothing mystic codes that anyone can use. It allows the user to clean and change colors by the owner's choice. They are very popular and in demand. Each time that new sets and models are published in our magazine Mirage, they are sold even before they got to the shelves." said Tatsuya. "However, this is our first prototype to Thaumaturgy users with affinity to spiritual arts and I would like to ask you to test it."
Mikihiko took the information he was told and looked at the cloak with different eyes. Over the centuries there had been many items and rituals that had been used as a catalyst to call the spirits, but if this cloak does what Tatsuya said, his family arts and all that are similar will have their biggest opportunity and challenge in ages. So, he had to ask.
"Why me, why not someone like Sakura-sensei?"
"You know that she is already on such a level that we can't get standard data anymore. So… what do you say? Why don't we take these toys to the test outside?"
Leon and Mikihiko looked at their respective tools and a few moments later, they both had shit-eating grins.
Next day….
"Good luck!" Mayumi exclaimed, as the three young men walk towards what will be their first match, where they will be facing the team of the 5th magic high school.
"Thanks.." said Tatsuya as he led his team towards the field arena. The field chosen for this match was the forest arena. However, it will not be a simple forest battle, because ever since the revelation of flight magic by Avalon Tech, this will be the first time it will be implemented in the competitions or in this case, placing the monolith in locations that to either defend or attack you need to be able to fly. As it proves that both monoliths was placed on platform 10 meters above the ground. Soon both teams were ready. Both teams poised to move as soon as the signal sounds.
Meanwhile, as this was happening in the field. At a different section of the spectator stands, multiple little dramas were about to begin.
"What do you think about these turns of events Georgy?" asked a red haired teen to his small friend.
"It IS a surprise that he will be competing in the contest and not as an engineer, but that do not change the fact even if he manages to win all his matches he still has no chance against us, Masaki." said George.
Masaki's only answer was silence and a small smile on his face as he recall his encounter with Tatsuya. Since of all the girls that were under his responsibility are undefeated in the competitions he had attracted his attention. As a future leader of the master clans he had made a point to find people with talent that will help him in the future and when he wanted to meet the engineer responsible, and when found out that he was related to the Emiya family his desire to meet him grew even further. Although after having met him, the dark haired beauty that was at Tatsuya's side at the time invaded and occupied most of Masaki's current thoughts. Youth.
In the VIP section private boxes where only important people are allowed. Three beautiful women were seated, waiting to see the beginning of the competition.
"This is a very interesting turns of evens, don't you think sister" said Maya as she sees the image of Tatsuya in the big screen.
"When Miyuki told her yesterday that Tatsuya will be participating in this event, I couldn't believe it at first, it was a fortune that this match was in the afternoon so we managed to arrive to see it. By the way sister what did you say to the elders about you coming here as well?" asked Miya.
"Just that I want to see personally what Thaumaturgy users can do after being trained by true masters. I also told them that they need to make their own observations and research." she explained, not bothering to hide the smile on her face. Ever since her time in the Emiya manor, she had become extremely active, looking for any excuse to be outside. She no longer had any reason to hide.
"By the way Honami, thank you for making arrangements on such short notice."
"It was nothing much Maya-sama. We already had a place close by and we only needed to get tickets to the event. Everyone else are here mostly for the senior matches, while barely paying attention to the rookies. Getting tickets for these matches was easy." answered Honami.
"That is truly good luck." said an all too cheerful voice that the three women had recognized immediately. "Nice to see you all again."
"Irisviel-san, it had been some time. You too Aoi-san." said Maya.
Just as Maya had said Irisviel and Aoi where there in company of Sella and Leysritt.
"Indeed, maybe we should begin to organize tea parties in each other's homes to keep contact" said Irisviel as if she is talking with longtime friends and not the leaders of the most dangerous clan of magicians in Japan.
"I take it you have come to see the games?" asked Miya.
"You are correct, last night Suzune informed us of his participation so naturally we came to support Tatsuya, even if we know that he is going to win for sure" said Aoi.
"You are quite confident." exclaimed Honami.
"We had known what he is capable of for some time now, so we are sure."
Before Miya could ask for more information about her son, Maya made her own inquiry.
"What about the rest of your family? Will Kiritsugu also come?" asked Maya in a seemingly calm voice. The fact that Maya asked for that man in particular is suspicious Miya noted.
"Unfortunately, he and our kids still had some work to do but they will be here to see the finals for sure."
Soon they were talking like old friends, more or less which is what it looked to outsiders if they were looking from a distance. Never realizing that despite appearances the people around the observed group felt like they were at death's door.
Meanwhile…..
Somewhere around the installations, two legendary yet unknown figures walked among the crowd. Although they were walking together, their animosity was clear to see.
"This is pathetic." said a young man with golden hair as he walked in in fine clothes.
"Umu." his companion nodded, a tall man with European features.
"I know that you are a plebeian, but if the king graces you with his voice, it is your duty to be grateful and give a proper answer."
"It was the third time you stated that…"
"And each time my resolution gets stronger."
"What do you deem so pathetic?"
"In my kingdom, whenever I took the time to grace it with my presence, if I ever found someone that is useless, the defect will die in order to save resources that could be used for someone else worth keeping alive."
"Your people must have loved you for that." said the tall man with sarcasm.
"I couldn't find a single person that I could kill…. All of them had shown me enough reason to let them be alive in that moment. That is why I let them serve me as my subjects. I let them wear it with pride…However I cannot find a single salvageable thing in these commoners, so that means that they are just a waste of resources."
"And you are the one who chooses which is which? Who lives and who dies."
"I am the everlasting king with the greatest divinity. It is only my birthright." said the blonde man tiredly while his companion remains silent. "You don't seem pleased with this revelation, perhaps you are having second thoughts about this"
"I am searching for something….while disagreeable, the crazy plan of those "people" that believe they can controls us is just a means to an end."
"And what goal is that?" asked the blonde man.
"….."
It was in that moment that they focus their attention on one of the main screens that was showing the match that was about to begin.
Back in the field, we can see how Tatsuya and his two friends were just waiting for the signal to begin.
"Do you remember the plan?" asked Tatsuya.
"Yeah, leave the defense to me" said Leon.
"I'll make sure that nobody pass through the middle field," said Mikihiko.
"Ok, let's do this."
The signal market the begin of the match and so each of them began to move.
With Leon…
Leon was guarding the base of the platform that had their Monolith, looking out for signs of the enemy. In the past one would only need to looking at their immediate surroundings, but since the introduction of flight magic they also have to watch out for enemies above.
He didn't have to wait long as his opponent was taking a direct approach, moving whilst behind the trees. Leon assumed he was very confident in his skills or he was underestimating him he wasn't sure. Either way he didn't care because he will not give him the time to do anything. Combat thaumaturgical classes with Shirou-sensei have made sure he always kept calm and ready. Sensei's words reverberate in his mind.
"Words are useless in the battlefield."
Raising his sword, he attracts the attention of all the spectators looking the hilt in his hand. Water began to come out from the handle taking form of a blade, a very large and imposing blade.
"Dorya!" screamed out Leon, as he swings his sword towards his opponent that was behind a tree.
His opponent confident that the tree will stop the attack, starts to prepare a counterattack, but was quickly taken out when the incoming water blade made a turn around the tree and hit him, leaving him unconscious.
"YOSHAA!" said Leon with emotion as he remembers what Tatsuya had told him the last night.
Flash Back
"Just as I told you this magic tool is a specialized CSD that stored a few tons of water and a bounded field projector in the shape of the blade." Tatsuya explained.
"But what is so impressive about a water blade?" asked Leon.
"You may not know it, but some decades ago high-pressure water was the more effective way to cut metal with precision. The blade can be adjusted to be sharp enough to cut through a war tank like butter."
"But the rules prohibit the use of lethal force."
"For that I made sure I installed a safety" said Tatsuya pointing to an oval gem in the handle.
"Horizontal position is safety mode giving it a blunt edge while vertical positioning will unleash the blade's full sharpness in combat."
END FLASH BACK
"Tatsuya, Mikihiko, you guys are up." said Leon.
In the middle of the forest, one could see a unique phenomenon, a dome made of fog no bigger than 10 meters in diameter. Making this fog unique was the fact that It kept its spherical shape and size while one can hear screaming from inside it.
"Where are you?! Show yourself coward!" yelled a voice inside the fog followed by a series of shots in all directions that hit trees, and rocks. Close by in a particular direction there is a space that seems to be surrounded by a wall of wind, the other competitors unable to enter it, because it was in that direction that the author of that phenomenon waiting.
Flash Back
"Don't you think that these clothes looks a little ridiculous?"
"Had you ever heard the old proverb that form follows function. The cloth is made with a special fibers that increase the user's affinity with spiritual particles."
"Then will this make me more powerful?" asked Mikihiko.
"No, but it will help you to control your own power, making it easier for you to use your magic."
"By any chance Sakura-sensei's clothes are also made of this? Is that why she is so powerful?"
"Sakura-neesan had a natural connection with the spirits, so she never needed something like this."
"I see….."
"But you need to understand that you are your own person. How far you can progress will depend on you and your own efforts alone."
END FLASH BACK
"This time I will make my own luck." said Mikihiko as he focused more mana and his hood and cape began to glow to the point that even magicians that have zero affinity for the spirts could see them fly around him. He raised his hand and pointed in the direction of the fog. The audience could see how the fog began to take the shape of wolves, bears and big snakes. These creatures will be his familiars.
"This is an illusion." said his opponent as he shoots one of Mikihiko's familiars that disintegrated into mist only to reform again a second later. It was in that moment that a fog wolf jumped him. At the impact, pain which he didn't expect made him realize they can be solid. The other familiars began to push the opponent until his back was on a tree. It was in that moment that a fog snake wrapped around him and trapped him there.
"Tatsuya, it's your turn now." whispered Mikihiko as he keeps his opponent in check.
IN ANOTHER PART OF THE FOREST
At the enemy monolith, the last opponent from Fifth Magic School was on guard, wary of coming enemies. A sound of a branch breaking. Wary and alert he looked towards the noise and shot some magic bullets. In that very moment a silhouette from area he shot at. The silhouette dodging him as he kept shooting at it, going tree to tree for cover. It was until he had tried to shoot again and failed, the man realized he used up all his shots and the CAD has to refresh.
That delay was all the silhouette needed. It was Tatsuya, who from the very start snuck into the area around the other opponents. He rushed towards the opponent, took his CSD and fired a spell to shift the ground under them, causing the enemy to lose balance. Tatsuya ran past the man without wasting time. His battle instinct sensing the opponents counterattack, without even looking points his tool at his back and fired,"Ablehnen," and broke the magic sequence.
The reaction of all that was present was only surprise.
While his opponent was recovering from the shock, he tried to take the opportunity to open the monolith but before he had the chance to type the code, his opponent managed to go after him. Tatsuya decided to go deep into the forest to lead him to a trap.
Using his fly magic, he moved sliding over the ground. Increasing his speed until he got ahead of his adversary, he suddenly turned and used more mana for his spell he flew on top a tree. He hid behind the branches and fired a Gandr at his opponent catching him unawares. Immediately fainting to the ground.
All three members of Fifth Magic High School unable to continue combat, ending the match. Marking the first victory of First Magic High School.
Back with the spectators many had varied reactions of the victory. Most students couldn't believe that a team of Thaumaturgy students could win even one match, while in the VIP box a group of women were having a very interesting talk.
"I had to admit that it was an amusing match." said Maya.
"The magic that that Yoshida's boy use looks similar to the one that our intelligence group reported." added Honami.
"That is because Sakura-chan had been teaching some students her magic." proclaimed a proud Aoi.
While the others women were talking, Miya couldn't stop looking at her son, seeing firsthand how formidable he has become. She remembered a talk she had with Kogoro.
"I was such a fool. I should have taken him back when I knew I could. I should have never pushed him away."
"That magic that Tatsuya used….. Was it Grand demolition?" asked Honami making Miya come back to the present.
"No, that was a spell named Ablehnen, the Denier of Magic. It has similar effects as Grand Demolition, but has twice the range." explained Irisviel.
While this revelation was a welcome surprise for half of that group of women, the majority were giving a mix of responses
"What did you think about the match, Georgy?" asked Masaki
"I have to admit that it came quite a surprise. All of them have combat experience. Especially that man Tatsuya. We are also unfamiliar with most of Thaumaturgy. While that is a problem, I believe our biggest challenge will be his tactics. That man is cunning…..Though we will still win regardless." said George matter of factly. .
"You are…..correct." agreed Masaki.
IN ANOTHER PART OF THE STADIUM
"Pathetic, absolutely pathetic. I really can't expect anything entertaining from these commoners." said the blonde man.
"In comparison to when I was alive, it's not that bad." his tall companion mused.
"All that proved is this world degraded beyond belief since my time. Disgusting."
Before they could continue with their talk the hear a couple of girls that we passing by.
"They got lucky, but there is no way that they could defeat the crimson prince!" said one girl.
"That's right, Masaki Oji-sama is the heir and future head of one of the Ten Families, greatest in Japan. There is no way that someone like him will lose."
"He truly represents what a noble should be like!"
While the girls keep walking in the distance. The two men that overheard that from afar remain in silence for a moment.
"So, there is a fake noble that dares to call himself the Crimson Prince? How impertinent! I shall judge if he is worthy of that title and if not….the consequence of faking nobility will not be light." He declared.
TIME SKIP
Over the next two days the competition kept going and First Magic High School was in the lead as expected of the returning champions, but the main focus of discussions around was the performance of the first full team of Thaumaturgy students that ever competed, and the Crimson Prince of Fourth Magic High. The Prince in particular showed a dominating win which seemed to further to show everyone he is the man to beat.
Reactions were varied. The other schools increased their preparations while the audience's excitement was at an all-time high. A blonde man spectating the event was also growing more irritated each passing day.
"Those commoners….trash. This is worse than I thought. They think that paltry ability is special and worthy to be called nobility?
"Those commoners are worse than what I believe, if they think that that prince is someone special then maybe I should teach them a lesson to remind them their place" said Gilgamesh. As he stood on is spiritual form in the top of a building with his companion.
"What are you thinking?" said his companion next to him.
"I will show them how magnanimous I am by given them one last chance to impress me. If they fail them, I have to educate them about the true nature of the world and the future that waits for them"
"How nice of you."
"Yes, I know."
And with that the two of them jumped and began their way towards the field that will stage the final match of the first-year event.
One hour earlier….
Just as Aoi had told them a couple days ago, the rest of the Emiya family had come to support Tatsuya for the finals.
"This is your time Tatsuya, now you had to show them what you can really do!" said Ilya with emotion. As she and the others were around Tatsuya just in front of the tent that was acting as the first school HQ for the duration of the competition. It was just behind the main seats that made it easy for them to go there.
"You outright dominate! Especially after all we taught you." said Rin with pride. All those present can see her fighting spirit.
Tatsuya could only wryly think about how his two big sisters were more excited than he was about his participation.
"You have to understand them Tatsuya-kun, back in our school days we couldn't participate in this competition because we were labeled as weak and second rate. If we had shown what we could do, we would have attracted unwanted attention… while you don't have to worry about that, so we want you to succeed, but most importantly have fun!" said Sakura.
"Thanks but this isn't my idea of fun, in fact if Mayumi, Miyuki and Suzune hadn't joined forces to make me compete I would have preferred to remain as an engineer." answered Tatsuya as he sends an accusing look towards the girls that were next to him. The smile that they showed him reveals no regret for their past actions.
"My, my, is that true? Well in that case we have to invite you to a celebratory dinner after the matches." Irisviel happily stated.
"Please don't support them!" yelled Tatsuya
"Why not? They are doing the same thing that we would do." said Aoi with Irisviel and their daughters nodding in support.
"You better give up son, it is the destiny of all the men with the Emiya name to be surrounded with strong-willed women, isn't that right Shirou?"
When no answer came Kiritsugu and Tatsuya turn to him and saw that he was very serious…. no serious is not the right word, he looked tense and ready to fight.
"Shirou-nii?" asked Tatsuya. He was bewildered. The last time he saw his brother so tense was during the battle of Okinawa.
"Oh? Ah! sorry what were you saying?" said Shirou as he finally responded.
"Is everything okay son?" asked Kiritsugu
"Hmm…. It's nothing… it was just a bad feeling, a sensation; like something suddenly felt out of place….. I hope it's just my imagination," said Shirou.
Everyone present knows this red-headed man's habits, and this man never has a bad feeling without good reason. However, before anyone can inquire him further Tatsuya was called in for a student meeting
They instead wished him luck and walked to get to their seats. Although everyone has become more wary of their surroundings.
"What is bothering you?" Rin asked.
"It is nothing…." answered Shirou
"We know you and we can tell that something is bothering you." stated Illya.
"We will be together now and forever, so if there is something that bothers you, we are here for you." said Sakura.
"Thanks everyone. Make no mistake, I know everyone is strong and I can count on you, but I don't really know what's happening. I feel something akin to bloodlust. Like a predator targeting its prey. I can feel it in my bones. Something dangerous is here…other than that bad premonition I can't pinpoint it." Massaging his head he continued. "Since the feeling vanished I hope it's just my imagination."
"I didn't feel anything strange." said Illya.
"Me neither." added Sakura.
"The same for me but Shirou you always had sharper senses, and out of all of us has the most battle experience. Are you sure that you can no longer feel that presence?" inquired Rin.
"No…and it was so brief and intense that I have a hard time believing it to be real."
"Maybe it was stress, all of you had been working extremely hard in the last few days." stated Kiritsugu.
"That could be it. Tabling that did you just see that Aoi-chan?!" said Irisviel excitedly.
"Maa. My. Of course I did. Absolutely splendid! Our kids supporting each other, truly beautiful! Oh! I can't wait to see our grandchildren." said Aoi with a wide grin on her face.
"Mom!" said the three girls at the same time
"Please don't do this here…" said Kiritsugu tiredly, fearing that his lovely wives start playing their games in public.
"I think that I will go to the bathroom before the match." said Shirou as he uses that excuse to escape being the center of attention. While he walks away he thinks about that earlier sensation. The very thought giving him goosebumps.
Back with the Emiya family they arrived to the seats to see the match which they meet the Yotsuba family who arrived earlier. They cordially greet each other both families not wanting to attract too much undue attention.
Over the course of the last few days a strange relationship between Aoi, Irisviel and the Yotsuba twins began to develop. Miya suspects it is the strange personalities of the Emiya women that seems strangely alluring. Free yet elegant, uncaring of social statuses and honestly direct and upfront. She could not find anything to dislike about the family. Her sister she had silently observed within the past few days making not few inquiries about the Emiya Family Head. She couldn't understand her sisters increasing curiosity. While she wants to ask her about it, frankly most of her thoughts are coming back to whether to openly support her son. Or even secretly tell him good luck. She couldn't do either due to her fears, so she instead focused on watching Tatsuya's coming match.
Back with Shirou, he had just came out of the bathroom after washing his face. He was frozen in place in front of him walking a few meters away from him was Gilgamesh, the king of heroes, the most arrogant SOB that he had the misfortune to meet. The same man that wanted to kill him and his loved ones, while planning a mass genocide using the Grail.
How is this possible?
To their knowledge while it is still mentioned in history books, the actual ritual doesn't exist in this world. Especially with the level of Thaumaturgy when they awoke in this world. He tried to reason that it is probably a parallel world look-alike. A mere coincidence.
Knowing my luck though…..
He starts to think that the earlier feeling of danger and this mere coincidence could be related. His worry grew. His body tense and ready to spring to action. His apprehension rising as he walked closer to them. He finds a white haired man next to the Gilgamesh look-alike. His senses warning him of his danger. Shirou silently walks faster towards them when the crowd suddenly started crowding around him, indicating the match is beginning soon. Before he can see them again he finds they were no longer there.
"No, this can't be happening! I need to find him and his friend now!" thought Shirou as he focuses his senses. His Intuition warning him that they were bad news. It was in his haste that he forgot to do something very important. He forgot to ask for help. Regardless he starts to track the mystery men.
Back with the Emiya family the women were casually chatting with the Yotsuba's while watching the matches. Suddenly Suzune, Mayumi and her father Kouichi arrived. Another man arrived and headed to the VIP section. He was easily identified as Kudou Retsu.
"What a surprise Kouichi what are you doing here, taking a break?" said a sarcastic Maya.
"Oh, you know I just feel like coming here to support my little girl and to see some of the fine and promising students that she has told me about. What about you? Shouldn't you be at a tea party somewhere?" said Kouichi matching her sarcasm.
The tension was there for everyone to see. Everyone around couldn't help but be spectators. After a period of silence someone finally tried to say something, but the announcement of the match took everyone's attention. Everyone while excited had normal expectations for this match. Little did they know that what they will see would become the start of a revolution of magic that would mold the future of the human race forever.
Back in the field….
The teams of the First and Fourth magic high school finally facing each other. The last two days nothing but preparation and strategizing. Ironically both teams coming to the same conclusion that whoever disables the other will be the one to win.
The competitors began to walk to the middle of the field. All facing each other in a line. Captains leading at the center.
Mikihiko gulped. In front of him was a student of small height. Hardly intimidating, if one only watches the matches, one would think he was just someone insignificant. Can't be helped that all Fourth High School's prior matches was one by Prince alone. His true reputation
It was now evident who will be facing who when Mikihiko was just in front of the famous Cardinal George. A genius that had discovered one of the Cardinal Codes at the young age. An achievement unmatched in recent history.
Leon was facing Saito (never knew his name on the manga.) who was a team member that was chose in person by Masaki because he excels in combat.
And finally, Tatsuya was facing Masaki, the crimson prince facing an unknown talented Thaumaturgy user that had led his team to victory on every match that they had.
They were still a few hundred meters from each other's when the signal could be hear marking the beginning of the match and each other run to face their respective opponent.
With Mikihiko and George.
"This is it! Now to finish him." thought George, over the past few days he had been studying the opponent's magic with the help of Masaki and Saito they had developed a strategy that they were sure will give them the victory. The reason why he chose to face this opponent, because since the first match he had been using some kind of illusion technique. One that is unknown and particular strong. Yet it had one weak point; he can only cast that spell in a specific small areas that he uses to capture his enemies with his illusions. So if he managed to avoid get captured in that area, he could finish his opponent from a safe distance with his invisible bullet.
"Eat this!" He fires his attack that hit his target, but to his surprise his target didn't fall, but turn into mist, only to reform a couple meters away.
"So, I had already been in his illusion." he concluded, as he activated his CAD, he used fly magic and began to soar. He decided to keep moving in a safe distance until he manages to hit him once. This strategy comes from the observation that Mikihiko has never attacked any of his opponents during the matches. He just traps them with illusions until the end. Mikihiko is lacking in offensive capability. He was about to shoot his magic again when suddenly Mikihiko created multiple copies of himself and surrounded him.
"Damn! It will take lots of time to find the original and I will run out of Psion energy by the time I do. Could this be his plan? Well I will not fall for that!"
He immediately gets ready the spell that he learned from Masaki to deal with illusions. A precaution in case the fight doesn't go as planned, it was to be his ace. His last resort. He decided it was time. His instinct screaming danger when his opponent's cape started to glow.
He started to fire his magic to an area where a small group illusion disappears, but the other was still there with their capes glowing more at each moment. He began to get ready to launch another attack and when he did it another group of illusions disappears.
"No matter what you are thinking we are going to be the winners of this contest!" yelled as he uses his spell again, making more clones disappear but there were still more of that which means that he still missed the caster.
"Now is my turn!" said Mikihiko, ever since the beginning of the match he knew that to win he needed to avoid the Cardinal's invisible bullet, for that he had set all these copies of himself but that take a lot of effort for him, knowing that he had to finish this as fast as he can, he release the magic that he had been getting ready since the beginning. Ever since he began to take classes with Sakura-sensei he had improved his magic to the point that even his family that used to criticize him now had nothing but praise, - not that he cares, but now he only wants to test himself, see how far he had come and facing one of the elites was the best way to find the answer. Using all the wind spirits that he had been gathering, he asked them to give form to his thoughts and a tornado began to form and as it grew larger, it released an airstream towards George.
"AHH!" was all that George could say before he got blasted spinning in the air and fell unconscious.
"I did it!" Mikihiko was happy for his victory but soon he understood that it come to a price as his magic circuits began to ache. He had just used two high level magics at the same time and now his body is paying the price. He starts to lose consciousness, but kept himself awake. He can't let all his work be for nothing. Kneeling as he waited to regain some of his stamina. "I can't believe that Sakura-sensei makes spirit magic looks so easy."
Suddenly Mikihiko felt a weight pressing on him, heavy to the point that he couldn't move. He starts to look around and found George laying where he fell, awake and was using his magic on him. Mikihiko couldn't help admire his tenacity.
"Damn! Shirou-sensei always told us to never let your guard down until one leaves the battlefield, I am such a fool." He was now forcing himself to keep conscious while he knelt. George losing energy and consciousness while he keeps using his magic to force Mikihiko down. Both are exhausted and fighting to stay awake.
"Let's see who gives up first."
With Leon and Saito.
"Ha! That was easy!" said Leon as he sees his defeated opponent.
It really was an easy victory. When the match began, he just reinforced his body and charged towards his opponent that began to use his magic to launch rocks at him. He nimbly dodges the majority of the rocks, using his water blade to deflect and cut the unavoidable ones. Courtesy of Shirou-sensei's sword projectile avoidance training.
It was in this moment that he turned to see how his teammates were doing, and while Tatsuya and Masaki were interchanging shots on even grounds, he saw how Mikihiko and George at an impasse. So, he ran to help him.
However, when he ran, he had to run past behind Tatsuya and that attracted the attention of Masaki. When he saw where he was headed, Masaki starts to think of a plan and gathered his energy.
Knowing that unless he did something now, he will be the last man standing on his team, Masaki uses a multi-attack spell that creates many spell circles that condenses the air around him to overload particles to create an energy bolt that hits his target. While he knew his attack could be negated by Tatsuya's Gram demolition, he made enough so that even as a distraction it was worth it.
With that plan Masaki started his spell and soon many spell circles were surrounding Tatsuya and he had no other choice but to use his Ablehnen to destroy them before they had the chance to release their attack.
It was in that moment that Masaki chose his new target as he was running to where George was.
"Mikihiko I am coming just hold o-AHHHHH!" scream Leon as he receives Masaki's attack, as he was getting close to help his friend.
"Masaki, Thank you!" said George with admiration.
Suddenly he heard something and found that something heading in his direction. Mikihiko used his time distracted and unleashed an earth magic attack. He deftly dodged with the last of his strength but was for naught cause he got hit with a second attack this time lightning.
"AHH!"
"I did it!" said Mikihiko as he knelt on the ground watching the Cardinal fall unconscious. He had no more magic power remaining, the only thing that he could do now was wait for the end of the contest.
Masaki inwardly cursed when he saw George lose consciousness but more or less avoided a 3-1 disadvantage.
Suddenly Tatsuya ran in a burst of speed towards him, him who trained for real battle reflexively attacked but forgot to regulate his power. He realized that the attack he unleashed will have lethal repercussions. Already activated it was too late to stop it.
When Tatsuya began to destroy his spell circles, he prayed that by some miracle he could destroy all of them and save his life but that hope ended when the last two spell circles activate their power and hit Tatsuya, sending the man flying in his direction.
Damn it!
For Tatsuya this match could have ended in a few moments but with the entire match been broadcast to the entire country that would create more questions than what he and his family are willing to answer so he chose to limit his skill to just the enough to win without raising too many questions- Well at least that was his intention but the crimson prince had proven that he earned his reputation. The fact that Masaki had been able to last this long was proof enough, but now he had committed a big mistake when he lost focus of him even if it's just a moment when he chose to help George.
Just as he was trained, he took that opportunity and ran towards him, getting ready to take him down. That is until he saw Masaki's magic, spell circles surrounded him charging for an attack. Furthermore, when he analyzed them the power was not insignificant.
"Oh, you got to be kidding me?!
"Did Masaki really want to win so much that he is willing to kill someone? Or is this a stupid mistake?"
Tatsuya immediately analyzed all the spell circles and calculated the order of attack. Knowing this he orderly destroys circle after circle with Ablehnen. Unfortunately, for all his efforts one was able to fire.
"Damn! I guess this is my limit at this level." thought Tatsuya as he was hit by the attack.
In the audience everyone was flabbergasted. Most magicians at the stands knew the power of the spell was not insignificant, most likely lethal. Everyone was panicking, thinking he might have died. Well, all except the handful at the stands that knew his true strength.
As Tatsuya rolled over the ground towards Masaki his restoration magic starts to activate. Meanwhile Masaki had a look of worry on his face as the body of Tatsuya rolled past next to him, just for him to regain balance and suddenly stood. For a moment Masaki was happy that he did not commit a crime but that feeling didn't last long as Tatsuya rise his hand and said the words that sealed this match.
"Shit."
"Gandr!"
Dark purplish lightning hit Masaki in the chest making him fall. Although still conscious the spell made him unable to move. Tatsuya walked with slow and steady steps until he was over him and raised his hand towards him.
"It's our win."
With that, the signal went off signifying that the match was over. Winners of the Match! First Magic High School!
Everyone at the stands were cheering at the announcement. Especially where the students of First Magic High School. Some of the girl students were even crying with joy. At the VIP box the Emiya, Saegusa and the Yotsuba families were also celebrating. Aoi and Irisviel were jumping for joy with fans with a certain contestant's face. Rin and Sakura were celebrating while holding each other. Yotsuba Miya was clapping calmly and supportively while eyeing the fans with a certain contestants face.
"That was an interesting match." said Honami, hoping to move the topic because she could see her master's worries.
"Yes, it was and that may cause some troubles in the future." added Maya.
"What do you mean?" asked Honami.
"The future head of the master clans and two member of the elite that include the Cardinal George were defeated on national television by three unknown Thaumaturgy users. On one side the master clans will not want to leave a result that challenges their power and on the other they may begin to take Thaumaturgy more seriously." answered Kiritsugu.
"Well, well..how interesting that you know so well how the Master Clans work. Isn't it Kiritsugu? said Maya glancing at him with a challenging grin. Kiritsugu could only look away and cough. Maya couldn't help but smile at his reaction.
For Miya, she couldn't ignore the fact that over the last couple hours, her sister was openly talking with that man, so much that it looked like she was having fun. For as long as she can remember she never saw her sister smile so much. For as long as she had known her twin everything was new. Miya decided she would talk to her sister later when she can get her alone.
"By the way where is Shirou? He just missed the entire contest." said Irisviel.
"He looked a little strange earlier today?" said Aoi. "Do you think that he is not feeling well?"
"But Shirou has never gotten sick!"
While the mothers were talking the girls were using their telepathy to have a little talk themselves.
"Do you think that he is fine?" asked Illya with concern.
"He was acting strange this morning." added Sakura.
"I know but do not worry, he must've got distracted by something. Besides if he needed help, he would contact us" said Rin.
Soon the three of them began to talk about other topics but when they turned to see Tatsuya and his friends helping their opponents up, they saw something shocking. Something that they did not want to see or believe.
Back with Tatsuya.
He was helping Masaki stand up, but he was still suffering from the effects of his Gandr. It could be because he may have used too much power in his last attack but that was payback for what Masaki did, so he'll consider them even.
His thoughts were interrupted by a sudden voice in his head. It was Shirou who was trying to talk to him using telepathy. Something was wrong. His brother was not congratulating him, all he can hear is fear and panic. It was in that moment he sees his brother running in his direction at speeds he had never seen a human do. He realizes the danger when he saw that Shirou was also wearing armor. Something dangerous is coming!
He could see that Shirou was looking behind him so he turned to see a blade coming in his direction. It was in that moment that Shirou pushed him and Masaki out the way in the last possible second while a sword not unlike the ones that his brother uses nailed itself in the same place where he and Masaki stood.
"Shi" began to said Tatsuya but was cut off by his brother.
"Everyone needs to evacuate the area right now!" said the Shirou with his voice echoing with magic so the others that were present even in the stands could hear him.
"But ..." began to said Masaki be he as well was cut.
"Shut up and do as I say! I have no time to explain anything! Just know that no one here stands a chance against the one that is coming! he commanded.
"Isn't that so, oh great King of Heroes." as he turned around to face the assailant.
For Shirou all hope that this was just a bad dream ended when out of the trees where the blade had come from. The arrogant golden prick that had been the source of many pains and sufferings in his past life materialized to what was now in front of him.
"Oh, so even a plebeian knows who I am. How surprising. I would like to ask you a few questions but that have to wait until I kill that disgrace that dares call himself nobility." mocked Gilgamesh and with that he shot five more blades towards Masaki.
"Rho Aias!" a magic barrier with the form of a flower appears between them and the attack and stopped the projectiles.
"I will not allow you to do what you want, you pathetic excuse of a KING!" he declared, never moving his eyes he continues to say to them, "You have to go now! And be careful there is another one hidden somewhere."
"But many of us still can't walk, much less run" said Masaki as he had finally recognized the armored man who was in front of him was.
"Damn it!" he cursed.
This is possibly the worst situation that he had ever encountered. Facing a servant with innocents behind him that can't move, with a hidden one he cannot track.
All of this was happening way too fast. He had come to the forest following the trail but because he was worried of being discovered he had kept his distance but as a consequence he lost one of them.
Suddenly Shirou felt it, a noble phantasm had been activated. The feeling was so familiar to him even after all this time in this world. After all how he could one ever forget that feeling when he once fought the King of Heroes who saw fit to attack him with almost every know Phantasm in the past Grail War. Without even thinking he dodged the weapon with minimal movement. He keeps himself in between the servant and his little brother.
I need a way to get them out of this place.
"You look troubled, plebeian?" said Gilgamesh. But before he could get his answer some new figures arrive in battle armor.
"SHIROU!" said Sakura, Illya and Rin using their telepathy.
"Girls, what are you doing here?"
"Taking a walk in the forest, what the hell do you think?" Rin answered sarcastically
"What were you thinking, why you didn't tell us anything?!" said a mad Illya.
"Hey, I did tell you and, in my defense, I didn't know that it was Gilgamesh until a few seconds ago!"
"We will talk about that later, we need to contain this situation somehow." said Sakura.
"What is happening?" asked Tatsuya,
He was confused and worried to see his siblings react like this. Not even the possibility of facing the entirety of the Yotsuba clan give them this much of a reaction. Who the hell is that blonde man?
"We will talk later, now you need to take those kids to a safe place… Be careful he is attacking the high-ranking members of the master clans, or at least that is what I observed after he went after Masaki's life. I will keep him here." said Shirou.
"Wait a minute, we can't leave you to fight him alone!" said Illya.
"I am the one that has experience facing him and I know how I can get him to focus on me while you take these kids to safety!" Shirou countered.
"But ..."
"We do not have time for this, please just trust me!" said Shirou, after a few moments they hesitatingly agree.
"Are you done mentally talking to each other? Seriously you mongrels have no manners, to interrupting my punishment to making this King wait…. Looks like more of you plebeians need lessons in etiquette." said the blonde man arrogantly.
His armored sisters only reaction is to gather everyone and before Tatsuya could react, they were being teleported turning into small blots of light.
While they have announced an evacuation most of the audience has not been able to leave yet, let alone the cameras were left turned on and unattended. Every single person watching could not stop their surprise.
"Hey, isn't that The Phantom Blade?"
"Yes, and I am sure that that is The Queen of Light!"
"The Jewel Sorceress and The Nature Sage are there too!"
"Who is that blonde man attacking Masaki-sama! Why is the Phantom Blade protecting him? Is he someone from the Master Clans?!"
"Where did the others go?"
And as if to answer that question, the armored women reappears at the audience stands with the competitors, then they form a line between the leftover audience and the place where now the Phantom Blade and the blond guy were facing each other.
Neither the Phantom Blade nor the blonde man moved for a while. No one watching them could say anything. Everyone watching couldn't help but be silent as they keep watching the two silent beings. No one can look away.
Something incredible is about to happen.
Back with Shirou
"So those mongrels were smart enough to run, but that don't matter….. I will just go after them later and finish them."
"You talk as if I would let you."
"How insolent! A mongrel like you believe that a King like me would need your persmission." said an amused Gilgamesh. "Pray tell, where do you get such arrogance."
"Just like this!" said Shirou as he traces some swords that shoots quickly towards the King of Heroes.
Gilgamesh's amusement immediately turned sour. His face contorted in anger. He was absolutely seething. This insect dares to copy my treasures! He even dares to use these fake things against me!
This mage…no this Faker has to die.
"You Faker! I will eliminate every trace of you from this world!" and with that more blades appears from behind Gilgamesh. He is readying to shoot more weapons from the Gate of Babylon.
Overwhelming as a rain of weapons is, but that is something that Shirou already faced before. Shirou traced his favored weapons Kanshou and Bakuya as he reinforced his body to the limit. He starts to deflect the weapons that shot towards him as he works his way quickly to the blonde king. Even at his current strength, the king still treated him the same. The king's strength exactly as he remembered.
But I am no longer the same.
Before he truly wasn't the servant's opponent. Stats wise he was completely inferior. Only winning because of the servant's severe underestimation, and the way his magic was completely suited to overwhelm the King's fighting style. A third-rate coincidentally specialized to defeat him.
Currently he can no longer be compared before. Not only has perfected his fighting style, his circuits fused with the other 3, his magical output surpassed his past several times. This allowed him to reinforce his body to even high servant levels. His magic efficiency is also several times better, barely using any prana for even his most powerful noble phantasms, even without using his reality marble. The fusion of souls also helped him master his reality marble over time along with his ability to now use his women's magic also increasing his versatility. While not a prideful man, Shirou has full confidence in beating Gilgamesh as long he doesn't use Ea.
His fighting style at first sight was the same as the old one but to the trained eye it was completely different. He refined Archer's style since technically it was geared to him to begin with, and made it more suited to his stronger reinforced body. No longer was he the weakest. His skill increased along with his new talents. An intended opening became more natural. Openings that he shows are no longer sacrificial but intentional. In his mind's eye he no longer shows only one way to win.
Due to the difference, swords that he used to barely dodge with his life were evaded calmly with minimal movement. Even with swords being sent his way at the speed of Mach 3. He is able to evade the first wave of attacks that were sent to him. His body dancing around the attack, his movement flowing like water, his blades accurately deflecting some others. To the spectators it can only be seen as a beautiful Dance of Death.
Even as Shirou gets closer while dodging his attacks Gilgamesh did not look perturbed. His confidence infallible as ever, like what Shirou is doing was only a matter of course.
To challenge this King, doing this is just the bare minimum. Gilgamesh's stance seemed to say.
Shirou couldn't really blame him. A demi-god whose divinity surpasses Heracles, who holds all the world's treasures and weapons, which has something for every situation, even a pride less man like himself might become lax. For all his strength he is no match for Ea, but he is confident that Gilgamesh would not use it unless pushed. The weapon that Shirou fears the most is the weapon that made his strength possible, and also the weapon that last time they fought gave him the most grief. The Chains that sealed the Heavens, the Noble Phantasm of the Gods - Enkidu. The chains which he witnessed bought down arguably the strongest hero in history, Heracles. Unlike Ea though, he can do something about Enkidu. He just has to wait for the right moment.
This won't be like last time King of Heroes.
The moment came when Gilgamesh thought he was close enough to even be a threat. Golden ripples started surrounding him and blades with chains speedily sped towards him. It was Enkidu. Shirou immediately used Bakuya nailing the chain to the ground in front of him and used it as a base to jump towards the sun as to blind Gilgamesh vision. The king reacted accordingly mentally ordering the chains to protect him from above. Little did he know, that at that moment Shirou threw his blades which boomeranged to Gilgamesh's blind spot, and while his instinct warned him, even as he jumped back he was not able to dodge the thrown blades unscathed. The King's clothes were torn to shreds. He was also no longer below the shield of chains.
Right were Shirou wanted him.
While still in the air with Magic, Shirou had prepared bow, it was nocked with a noble phantasm he was extremely familiar with. Caladbolg II. While Gilgamesh was busy dodging his favored blades he was already gathering his energy to break his altered sword. His hate and fury for this particular servant fueling his strength.
Shirou is not a spiteful person. He will never hate someone without reason. The number of people in his lifetime he truly hated can be counted in one hand. Gilgamesh was near the top of that very short list, not only for his charming personality but for his vision; an ideal world death is the only option to anyone that he finds unworthy. A man who judges the world like a god. Without empathy or kindness.
I don't know how he got to this world…..-but I will make sure he leaves it.
Time slowed down for him. While in the air he calmed his breathing. His arrow is nocked and charged. Only needs to do two things. Aim and release. Visualize the result and release the arrow. Hitting the target is just mere consequence.
An arrow of light descended towards the blonde man. To the spectators it looked like a bright line of light suddenly appeared. The lights outline twisting the air around it. In that single moment everyone who saw it all thought it will be the end for that blonde man.
Contrary to Shirou and the spectators belief, a blur too fast to follow suddenly got in front of it and somehow was able to bat away Caladbolg II into the distant plain in between the forest and Mt. Fuji. The explosion meant for the king of heroes was spectacular. To the others it looked like a second sun appeared in the sky. The spectators who saw the exchange unconsciously agreed on one thought.
These people aren't human.
Back in the public seats.
"OH my god, what is happening?!"
"I can't believe it, that attack could have destroyed an entire army, that means that magic attack was definitely strategic class! Those monsters are definitely strategic class magicians!"
"Why is this happening?!
"We need to get out of here!"
Everyone around was in a frenzy. Fear and panic was prevalent in the surrounding people. No one knew what to do. Even the more intelligent people in the stands couldn't calm themselves enough to think. Suddenly a strong voice echoed in the stands, deep and full of authority.
"All of you! Be silent! Listen well, we believe that intruder is trying to kill some of you that were participants of that last match. We don't know why, so don't ask, and we are not gonna wait here while panicking." The calm voice said.
SO STOP ACTING LIKE BABIES AND ACT LIKE THE MAGI YOU ARE!
Everyone turned their head to the source. A lady in crimson armor was seen. Most people in the stands recognize her. Especially the ones involved in the Okinawa incident. It was the magician that hailed as the Jewel Sorceress. One of the mysterious strategic class magicians that saved Okinawa.
Kudou Retsu, the unspoken leader of the Master clans was currently witnessing the current events. Mind working on overdrive, thinking about the implications and possible consequences. His worries only gets larger thinking about this competition is seen worldwide.
But what is happening, is something he did not account for. He had only came out to see this particular match due to the contestants. He always was a supporter of creativity over raw talent. The value of the magician judged by how he uses his power and not just raw versatility. The team in this match was a great example of his views. A team of thaumaturgy students beating the supposed "Talents," of the generation, including a youth considered a genius even in the Master Clans. A beacon of change for those stubborn in their views. During the match he was already hatching plans on how to use this match to cancel the segregation system regardless of the result of the match. The victory itself was a happy surprise but nothing compared to what happened after the match ended.
A figure he recognized was now in the match arena. A black armored man he recognized as one of the Magicians that showed up during the Okinawa Incident. A man that even his resources could not get any information of. One of 5 irregularities that somehow overturned common sense. Strategic class magicians that the country could not afford to not have information of.
But now, suddenly and without warning, after all these years he had showed up facing an unknown. That unknown just tried to kill Masaki and the other competitors without hesitation. Thankfully, the man that the people called the Phantom Blade had manage to save them. Just a few moments after he did so 3 more figures who he identified as the heroines of Okinawa appeared out seemingly nowhere. After what seems to be a conversation, the three women grabbed the contestants and disappeared in blue mots of light, then only to appear at the common area seats.
"Amazing. Teleportation magic, something that would be considered impossible before, and it seems all of them could use it." the old master considered.
Although he would like to have had time to calmly ponder on the possibilities and implications of such magic, he was startled by what happened suddenly. The man called the Phantom blade quickly attacked. Moved faster than the even his experienced eyes could follow. Blades appeared behind the unknown man and shot ahead at also incomprehensible speeds toward the Phantom Blade only for it to be deftly evaded and deflected. The projectiles and the man looking like blurs and sounds of blades and steel crashing against each other at random fast intervals. The fight he was currently witnessing could not be called just a fight between Strategic class magicians.
It can only be described as super-human.
A fight between Legends.
It seemed to reach a sudden climax when the armored man stopped and seemed to instantly attack with multiple blades and next thing he saw was he was above the unknown man holding a bow with what it looks like to be a glowing arrow. What was curious is that it seemed to twist space around the tip of the arrow. He shuddered at what that arrow could be until again he was astonished that the arrow that seemed to affect space, got shot at incredible speeds but somehow was deflected by some other unknown man. He did not even have time to ponder on who the other man is until he witnessed the power of the earlier arrow. He saw it shoot at the distance then, saw it impact on the ground. Then he saw a sun appear before his very eyes. The power. The intensity. At minimum it can only be called Strategic Class Magic.
Magic that changes the battlefield.
"Kudo-sama!" said two of his bodyguards. "We need to get you out of here!"
"That will not happen" he promptly answered.
"Staying here is too dangerous!"
"Which is something everyone here will have to deal with." He argued.
"Besides it will set a bad precedent if the unspoken leader of the Master Clans escape while leaving all those children to fate." He continued.
"Also I believe I am safer here than foolishly running away." said old master as he pointed towards the armored women at the common stands who were guarding the rest of the students including the last match's contestants. "Instead of worrying about old me, I want you to cautiously watch over those women and the contestants. The thaumaturgy contestants alone is worthy of my attention. "Gather all information that you can observe." He ordered.
"As you command." His guards saluting.
"Well, well, that attack was acceptable in power. You surprise me mongrel!.. Hmm…. AND YOU! Who told you, you could interfere with my battles! I have no need of anyone's help!"
Kudo heard what that blonde man said, the one that kept trying to kill Masaki. Thankfully the system that had been broadcasting the finals is still working so they could see and hear what is happening out there.
"Amazing!" said Honami. Her mouth open for an undisclosed amount of time by now.
"Indeed." added Maya. "So, this is the true power of your son, ne…Kiritsugu?"
It wasn't difficult to figure out the identity of the armored magicians that had become nothing short of a legend due to current events. Especially when you witness the Emiya girls that were by their side vanish only for the armored magicians to appear instantly after. By process of elimination they could also deduce that the armored one still fighting is Shirou.
"All my children are quite amazing." as he kept looking at the arena. Brows creased with worry.
"Who is that blonde man, an assassin? I believe that they said a name before they teleported, Gil-something," Kouichi asked.
"I had never seen Shirou-kun so mad… I wonder who he is and why they suddenly started fighting." Irisviel wondered.
"I believe it was because the man tried to kill the contestants." asserted Maya.
"That was a strategic level magic…that should've killed most if not anyone." Added Honami
While all this was happening, Miya who was deep in thought as she remembered what happened all those years ago in Okinawa as she arrives to a heart shaking conclusion.
"My son saved my life, even after all that I did….he saved me….Why?"
"Your family has five strategic class magicians," Kouchi stated. "Which would assume that Tatsuya-kun is Mahesvara….Which also matches the number of Avalon."
"Mahesvara? What do you mean dad?" asked Mayumi.
"When the Okinawa incident happened years ago, four heroes stopped the enemy and destroyed their fleet…The public knows them as The Phantom Blade, The Nature Sage, The Queen of Light and The Jewel Sorceress, but there was a another one that night….somoeone who was only witnessed by the leaders of the clans and the military. A young boy with amazing power. We gave him the title Mahesvara." he answered.
"Amazing!.. That means that all this time we had been receiving lessons from such incredible teachers" said Suzune. Her eyes could not help but widen.
"And now the entire planet will know who they are." stated Honami.
"Why do you say that?" asked Aoi.
"Their open usage of teleportation... You're daughters seemed to just disappear and appear seemingly instantly in sight of all these witnesses. Along with surveillance all over the arenas and stands, it will only be a matter of time." Honami answered tiredly.
"I think all of you forgot about this." said Irisviel still with a smile, as she pulled the chain on her neck to show the jeweled charm inside her ample bosom." After being dumbfounded for a second from the action, Honami could only blush and cough as she remembered the last time she saw a gem like that be used.
"The same jewel that Tatsuya used that day when we first talked to each other?" She inquired.
"Not the same but they have the same function," she explained. "Outside the area of the bounded field the gem creates, the people around us could only see us talking like normal, with no sound being heard from our mouths. Surveillance would be blurred, and people getting close to the border of the field would suddenly be inclined to go somewhere else."
"But how is that possible?" Honami could not hide her surprise at the description of the effect.
"I believe that that explanation can wait." said Aoi.
Miyuki was silently startled by revelations. The facts that the top researchers of Avalon are also the 5 mysterious Strategic Class Magicians that saved all those people in Okinawa is absolutely incredible. Most startling revelation is in that number also included her brother. Which after, she was able to finally conclude that the armored boy that saved her life was him. That even though she did not deserve it, he went and saved her at the risk of his life.
My life belongs to Onii-sama. I lost my life that day..and he gave it back to me."
Her thoughts were interrupted by the sudden voice of a certain blonde man.
Back with Shirou. -
"Damn!" Shirou cursed. He had a free shot to end it right here and now. He was confident that if it connected it could have at least grievously injured the King of Heroes. Not only that, now he has to think about fighting someone that can deflect such an attack.
"Well, well, that attack was acceptable in power. You surprise me mongrel! Hmm…. AND YOU! Who told you, you could interfere with my battles! I have no need of anyone's help!"
The man the blonde king was berating was in front of him, a tall man with clothes tight and dark. He had long silver hair and was very striking, also with European features. Just his looks will get the attention of anyone but Shirou could not get his eyes out of the hilt that is protruding off the man's back.
"Oh great, a Saber….Fuck…" cursed Shirou. Leave it to his luck. Along with the strongest Archer class servant he has to fight another servant but of the Saber class which are usually regarded as the strongest class. Truth be told he was also disappointed it wasn't a certain King of Knights. He had a slight hope to see her again after finding out Gilgamesh is here.
It's just my E-rank Luck.
"I could have stopped that low class attack by myself! How dare to interfere in my business!" Gilgamesh berated.
"I didn't do it for you." quietly answered the silver haired swordsman.
"Then give me a reason fool!"
"I told you that I never had any interest in your plans. I am searching for something. Purpose. I almost thought it was futile, but now I see that this warrior could be a key part in finding what I am looking for."
"Good for you, but he is mine! NO ONE takes my prey! stated Gilgamesh, his voice dripping in arrogance.
"Then tell me, oh King of Heroes, this place is full of the ones that you call commoners, and unworthy trash…Are you truly willing to show such people you're priceless treasures?" asked the silver haired man. After working with him for a while the man learned early that the only way to control this man is through this ego. No compassion nor logic will move him.
"Ze ha ha ha ha!..." the blonde king laughed heartily. "Fine! I will follow your game and leave this matter to you if you really desire to face this filthy mongrel!"
"Where do you think that you are going King of Heroes?! Are you running from this fight? You will shame you're reputation. Shirou provoked.
"How insolent, as expected from a simple mongrel; you should be thankful that someone even found you of any interest. I have grown tired of you anyways. He will be the one that deals with the likes of you filth." he said pompously. The king then turned away and vanishes into gold blots of light.
"DON'T RUN AWAY!"
Shirou was about to attack before he completely vanishes when the other man instantly got in his way.
"Prepare yourself. I am now your opponent." the silver haired man quietly said while slowly pulling his sword of his back.
The moment the man's sword was in Shirou's full view, his eyes focused on it completely. He completely read the history of the sword of the opponent in front of him. Knowing this he started to feel goosebumps. He could feel his sweat sliding down his face.
Curse my E-rank Luck
The sword he just recorded is Balmung; the Great Phantasmal Greatsword. A cursed blade that can use Light or Shadow depending on the user. A noble phantasm equaled only by the strongest swords in history like Excalibur. His dread only intensifies when he considers the fact that since he has that sword the man in front of him is Siegfried; the hero of Nibelungenlied. The dragon slaying hero that could even defeat his past servant, the strongest swordsman he had ever seen. The swordsmanship of this hero that he traced was frightening to him.
His swordsmanship surpass humanity.
Wary that his girls would want to come to help him he chose to mentally contact them while keeping his eyes on Siegfried.
"Listen, I need you all to stay where you are."
"Why? We should join forces now that Gilgamesh left the place!" asked Illya.
"This man is a Saber class servant, and he is also not just any servant. He is Siegfried the Dragon Slayer." the girls could not help release a gasp of surprise.
"That's why you need our help even more!" exlaimed Sakura. "We trained all this time and worked so hard is so when times like this we can finally hel-"
"-No, Sakura he's right." Rin calmly interrupted.
"…but nee-chan."
"This will be a close quarters fight. We may be strong enough to beat strategic class magicians, and match even the cavalry class servants if we work together and use our magic to the fullest, but that is a Saber. Just with the class its Magic Resistance is guaranteed to be high, it is Siegfried the Dragon Slayer. I don't need a magic scan to figure out that we probably can't even scratch him…..Then add the fact that there could be more servants around, we are better off helping with evacuations. If we stay here we will only get in the way."
The girls did not like what they have to do, but knew they had no choice under these circumstances. They can only trust in the man they love and hope like always he pulls through.
Focusing on the enemy before him, Shirou traced his favorite twin blades Kanshou and Bakuya and prepared for the most difficult fight he has ever encountered in this new world.
3RD Person POV-
Everyone, to the people currently evacuating, to everyone who was still watching National TV, all were holding their breath to see what will happen next. A calm stillness was present between the two swordsmen. Neither seemed to move as they see the wind blow the leaves around them. Anxiety was ever growing present among the spectators as the warriors on the screen keep still as they focused on each other.
The calm did not last as the silver haired man made the first move. All who was watching only saw him vanish and appear again, only mark of him moving forward is the wave of wind blowing away the leaves. The man when he appeared all-ready poised to strike, his sword high up in the air. The silver haired man slashed the armored man, his strike so fast it seemed it teleported pointing to the ground. A line going through the armored man. The attack so powerful a gust of air blew in the direction of the slash. The ground cut asunder. Suddenly one saw another armored man immediately slashed to the warriors left, the original man cut asunder disappearing like an after-image. The warrior blocked the strike and parried the strike while also slashing towards the other. The armored man gracefully used the counter-attack's momentum to nimbly spin using his legs as a pivot, in a move that also seemed to surpass human limits, did a perfect spinning jump kick, and hit the silver warrior straight on the face and blew the man away a few meters until he landed on his feet.
The armored man, or most would recognize as the Phantom Blade then did something that no swordsman would ever do in a fight. He threw both his blades. While at first look accidental as he threw both swords not in the direction of his opponent, the blades suddenly spun and curved like boomerangs, spinning towards the silver warrior. The Phantom Blade kept making copies of the weapons and throwing them whichever way he seemed to please. No one watching could make sense of the useless action.
He's surrounding him
Was the thought of most of the people spectating, which was also mirrored the silver haired warrior. Pretty simple to deduce once everyone saw that all the swords that the Phantom Blade through willy-nilly is making a spinning cage of swords, surround the silver warrior. The cage of swords getting smaller every moment. Containing the warrior. The Phantom Blade created a new set of blades and without warning, moved at superhuman speeds, seemingly appearing instantly near the silver warrior.
Crash! The sound of metal breaking can be heard. The black blade that was in the Phantom Blade's hand was destroyed when their swords met.
Crash! The white blade was destroyed.
He did not stop there. Before the silver warrior could make use of the situation the Phantom Blade extended his hands and two sets of blades that were flying around the come to his hands and block his attack, and although these set of blades were also destroyed, the Blade repeated the same move and soon the last set of blades fly to his hands.
Then, the blades in the Phantom Blade hands changed. It seemed to grow, a length that eclipsed even the user. Feathers seemed bursting from the hilt as the swords took on the shape of wings. Without breaking his stride the armored man seamlessly started attacking again despite the transformation.
Soon the clash of weapons continued, the Phantom Blade's swords more resilient as their weapons clashed, now without breaking. To most of the spectators, whether it was in the stands or watching through monitors, it was a beautiful dance of death. Every slash that they were able to witness; graceful, pristine, efficient, and easily observed as nothing but deadly. Even to the inexperienced watching, everyone who was watching this fight could only conclude they were nothing less than the pinnacle. Two warriors who surpassed humanity.
A single mistake meant death.
The Phantom Blade jumped back without warning, seemingly using flight magic to place himself at a good distance. They saw him throw his white feathered blade that silver haired swordsman, who was prepared to block it, but to everyone's surprise the white blade exploded the moment the warrior blocked it. The explosion strong enough to create a shockwave that shook the grounds that could be felt all the way to the stands.
Most concluded that the explosion marked the end of the fight. Logically, it would make sense to most of the spectators as they didn't see the silver haired warrior put up any defensive magic. As fire and smoke were the only ones that can be seen the armored man landed not too far away and suddenly accelerated to inhuman speeds, seemed to still attacking regardless of the smoke and fire in his way. His attack wasn't able to finish however as a shockwave without warning formed. Blowing away the dust, smoke and the armored man away. The shockwave revealed the silver haired warrior, holding his sword above his head. The beautiful greatsword glowing mysteriously, patterns all over the blade. They both went forward to each other again at inhuman speeds, as another dance of blades continued. It concluded this time the last feathered blade lay broken in the Phantom Blade's hands.
Shirou instinctively knew that there was no way that he could win this fight unless he used nothing less than his strongest abilities, but that is something that he wanted to avoid until he faces that damn prick Gilgamesh. Unfortunately he knew that if he didn't there might more victims as the fight prolongs, already their surrounding were in ruins as collateral of their fight. It didn't help that everyone at stands seemed to just want to stay and watch instead of actually evacuating. It didn't help the situation especially while his girls also probably trying to help evacuate as many people as they can. He could feel their concern through their mental link. He could tell that they extremely close to just joining him to fight. He cursed. I must end this before it comes to that.
His thoughts were cut when the Dragon Slayer suddenly spoke.
"Is this all you can do? I truly expected more. You're style while curious, and refined, is still below mine although not by much," observed Siegfried. "All you're base abilities are also below mine. It might be better if you had a weapon that made up the difference, but you're weapons are also inferior to mine. Formidable you may be, I cannot help but be disappointed."
"Well not all of us can have the body of a dragon, let alone a sword as powerful as Balmung; the Great Phantasmal Greatsword."
"So, you recognize my sword…Interesting, but if being intriguing is all you have, I will finish you here."
"Are you sure that you want to see my best?... You may regret that choice."
"From the beginning I never had any interest in this land nor its people. I just want to complete my own desire… a desire that can only be found on the battlefield, fighting an opponent equal or stronger than myself. If you are neither, then I see no more reason for this fight to continue. I will now lay claim to your life."
"Well, to have such high expectations from a warrior such as yourself is quite flattering. I would really hate to disappoint." Shirou replied.
Slowly Shirou could feel his mouth turning into a smirk. His empty hands moving together, his stance changing like he was about to unsheathe sword. He channeled his inner Archer and said challengingly.
"Be careful of what you wish for."
Shirou breathed in slowly. He calmed himself and completely focused his mind. For all his improvements who he is facing right now is the Great Dragon Slayer, Siegrfried. He doubts even Saber would be able to beat him without sacrifice. He someone who can only be defeated by the strongest of magics. For him, it would have to be his Reality Marble, but although the situation was dire, he still didn't want to show off all his trump cards, especially on national television.
I need an alternative, and this will be the perfect time to use it.
For Shirou, now will be the perfect time to use it past testing. Ever since he mastered his Reality Marble, he had been aware of his weak point, that in order to project the stronger weapons to the world, he required tremendous amounts of energy which leaves him little energy left to actually use the weapon, and that is only for the B-A rank Noble Phantasms. Projecting A-EX rank Noble Phantasms, while before would kill him without his use of Reality Marble, even now with his increased reserves is still way too taxing. He had to think of an alternative. So he decided to be in a sense a blacksmith. Instead of completely projecting a weapon with Prana, he uses the weapons in his Reality Marble as a blueprint, and use Alteration on a special kind of Magic metal he developed himself. Using his newfound powers of his Fused Reality Marble he was able to recreate the stronger Noble Phantasms and store them in a special space in his side of the world. Not only will he be able to take them out without much cost, just storing them in his reality marble actually improves the weapon overtime. It was time to test his forged weapons in battle, and not just that, he will have to use something that is even better than the Great Phantasmal Greatsword, to make up for the gap in abilities.
It can only be that sword.
His crowning achievement. One of the only things he took pride on although still a copy of the original. Not for the achievement of forging a weapon originally created by world as the Last Phantasm, but because it was her sword. The sword of the greatest swordsman he has had the fortune to witness, but also the sword of his first love. The sword of his Saber. He forged it while thinking of a single wish.
I want to see her again.
A wish granting device started it all, and a wish helped him recreate it.
The Sword of the End.
The ones that were watching was afforded a spectacular sight. Magic so strong it was completely visible, even through the cameras. The visible magic surrounded Shirou. His stance as unyielding as a sword. Sharp and resolved. He started to say his aria, the aria he uses to summon his strongest weapon. His words unintentionally shocking some spectators of a certain country.
FORGED IN FLAMES OF THE GAIA.
WHEN THE WORLD WAS YOUNG.
AND DEATH WAS ONLY A DREAM..
RESTING IN PARADISE, AWAITING FOR THE WORTHY..
WHERE YOUR POWER WILL HELP TO PROTECT IT..
UNTIL THE TIME OF ALBION ARRIVE..
ANSWER MY CALL!
SWORD OF PROMISED VICTORY!
EXCALIBUR!
When Shirou began to say the aria, more and more golden particles of began to appear from the ground. More came from around the air, and even the forest as they began to dance around him for a moment until they began to gather to his side where Shirou rise his right hand. Soon the glow became so intense that it was hard to look at it, but then a small golden circle was there. Shirou put his hand in the circle and began to pull out in a motion like he was moving out a sword. His hands holding an ornamental hilt, beautiful in its design. As he pulls it out fully everyone watching could only gasp. A golden glowing sword with blue ornaments, majestic in its design. It could only be described as perfect.
"HAHAHA! so you were hiding something like that this whole time!..he he….looks like my instincts didn't fail me after all." said Siegfried, as his eyes took on a look that can only be called predatory. He had been waiting for this. A skilled opponent with a weapon that equaled or surpassed his. A challenge. This was the way he wanted to achieve his wish. The dragon slayer can finally get serious. He formed his stance, strong and unyielding as his opponent. His power also visible around him now. He points his sword at his foe.
"Ready?"
"Ready!"
The two warriors began to clash again at superhuman speeds, but this time the scale of power is completely different. Each clash of swords followed a shockwave. Their strength destroying the earth beneath them. The winds from their clash slices and even uproots the trees surrounding them.
Unbeknownst to everyone, something was changing, because even if the people at the distance could not see it, both fighters were smiling. The kind of smile that only a true warrior shows when he is facing a worthy opponent.
After a few more strike and hits, the last clash so strong, the shockwave sent Siegfried and Shirou flying in opposite directions.
"Yes, this is what I was expecting from a hero," said Siegfried, smiling as he stands up. He began to visibly gather his power and focus it on his sword. For Shirou, Illya, Rin and Sakura that can only means one thing.
"Are you crazy?! You can't use your noble phantasm's attack here!" yelled Shirou frantically. His worry justified as that the energy of the attack could hit the spectators that were right behind him. He could try to move to one side to avoid it, but that would put the innocent in danger but he realizes that by his left was the hotel and to his right was where some of the others events was taking place. Ironically, the only area that had no people, was behind Siegfried.
"And what are you going to do about that, Sir hero?" he quipped. This time the energy that he had focus on his sword turns into a blue light pillar that flew towards the sky.
"I will stop you! Whatever it takes!" and with that, Shirou's Excalibur emitted a light so intense that became a golden pillar of light towards the sky.
It was an unbelievable view but as it was happening the two warriors silently kept gathering their energies, each pillar, one gold and one blue, had visible intensity akin to flame. Everyone watching all unconsciously thought that they were gathering energy for an attack. Everyone was anxious for the climax. They did not have to wait long.
Balmung!
Excalibur!
Both attacks were called and their respective pillar of lights fell toward their foe, but when they made contact with each other, their energies crash against each other's and began a fight for the supremacy. Time seemed to stop as the magic energy began to compress and accumulate until once again the pillars of light were shot upwards, this time interlacing with each other's like dancing towards the sky. The energies continued to clash until on the base of those pillars of attack, an explosion happened. The ones watching could only gasp in astonishment.
On England.
In a small country town that looks as if the time had stopped. A very unique couple was having tea in their garden. In this area it did not look out of place as the woman seemed to be just talking to her husband. What made them unique was that her husband's face was in the form of a skull of an animal. An ancient one. The woman though was a young 100 years old.
"When do you said that our kids will get home, Chise?"
"It will be around the next holidays, and we shouldn't treat them as kids any more, after all they had their own kids now, Elias."
But before they could continue with their talks a feeling of great power could be felt towards the East. A few moments of silence came upon them until one of them broke it.
"So, it has begun, and it looks that the event will take place in your old country." said Elias.
"It seems to be that way" Chise answered wryly albeit in a thoughtful way. She has never returned to her old country, as it had too many bad memories for her but now it looks that she has no other choice. On the good side it gave her the chance to see her brother again, it had been around 90 years since she last saw him and even if she knew what had been of his life, she chose to not make contact with him.
This married couple was not the only one that felt the energy from the east.
On Iceland, a man in a secret valley was surrounded by creatures that all believed to be only legends, which even included Dragons, turns to the direction of the energy.
"Lindel-sama, what is that?" asked one of the humanoids.
"…..The beginning of the change." the man answered.
United States.
A man in a lab is seen, seemingly stuck glaring at screen. His name was David Stutler the CEO of the Thunderbird Corporation and he was watching the events happening in the land far in the east. His mind full of thoughts.
A knock suddenly came from his window and broke his attention. Without looking away from the screen, he moved his hand and the window opened to reveal a man that got in as a big steel eagle flew away.
"If you don't get surprised by a steel eagle carrying a man to see you, then something must be wrong with you." the visitor teased.
"I will be surprised if you just used the door. Seriously master, I gave you full access to the entire Thunderbird complex."
"That is not as fun, and cut the master part. You already have become an excellent sorcerer." said the man as he turns his attention towards the video screen.
"So, it has begun?" asked David.
"It seems to be the case."
"What will happen now?"
"I wish that I know, I really do."
People that were highly ranked to the world to hidden masters that had extraordinary powers were all watching what was happening to the East. Everyone having the same conclusion
The gears of change are moving and what is happening in this small country will decide the path of humanity forever.
I promise you that Shirou will meet Gilgamesh in this chapter but the final battle between those two warriors will be at the end of this fic.
The discovery that the humans will use instead of the element zero is Flubber. This come from a movie of Robbin Williams when he discovered an element that can absorb, increase and redirect energy and create antigravity, I will just keep the element inanimate.
Well this is the chapter, hope that you had enjoy it.
By the way I just want to share an idea that I have.
A few days ago, I found a site where I can see one of my favorites series when I was a kid, The Exo Squat. After looking a few chapters I wondered why no one had ever use this series to a crossover with Mass Effect or Battle Star Galactica.
In the case of Mass Effect, it has these elements:
Marts was destroyed, that means no protean ruins.
The situation between the humans and neo sapiens where like the Quarrians and the Gets.
The knowledge that the humans got about gravity after the war would allow them to create their own FTL system.
The doctor that turns Nara into an advance human could had release the same drug and cause that many humans develop similar powers, this can be use as a way to face biotics.
If the Earth forces had a new FTL system, cloak systems, exo frame and energy weapons they could face the citadel forces even if they are few in numbers, if you include the grav shield, that will cause a great deal of concerns to the citadel.
The main story should happen years later after the end of the series.
In the case of Battle Star Galactica:
The similar situation that the colonials and Earth people had with their creations.
The options between Earth supporting either Colonials or Cylons, In the personal I would like to see something new, like how the Galactica arrive to Earth after they began to rebuild their lives, they learn that there are still millions of survivors in their home colonies and now a task force is send to rescue them.
This is just an Idea, if someone wants to take it please send me email when you write the story.
Also, I have ready the next chapters ready, up to the 22 chapter, they only need a beta, this was my longest chapter yet and that was because I wanted to finish with the introduction of the servants to the public. The next chapter is about how Shirou and the girls will have to answer some question and Miya and Tatsuya will finally have their moment to speak.
Until the next time. Please review!
