Chapter 2: Ignorance and Portance
#10-The most important aspect of any battle is information. Whether it is the withholding, leaking, or theft, worlds rise and fall on the flow of information.
Both I and Saber were seated across from the Tohsaka heiress. Her servant, who had brought in and poured tea for each of us, was standing behind her chair. As I delved into the events of the previous night that brought me to their doorstep, both master and servant's eyes remained trained on me.
Once I had finished my recounting, Rin picked up and sipped thoughtfully from her tea. Her servant, on the other hand, looked primed to ask me a question. I wasn't surprised. The entire time, Archer seemed far more engaged than even his master. Perhaps he was trying to assess the second servant that attacked me, seeking information that could reveal their true identity.
Which is why the questioned he asked caught me off guard.
"What is your name?"
I eyed him, mildly confused. What did my name have to do with anything I just explained? His face betrayed nothing, his steel-grey eyes unwavering and coldly calculating. I would be lying if I didn't say it reminded me of someone.
"My name is Shirou Kotomine, son of Kirei Kotomine, the overseer of this grail war. May I ask for yours?"
"Archer can't remember his name," Rin spoke up, setting her tea down. "And even if he did, I'm not sure I would want you to know it."
"Fair enough," We were technically enemies in this war. "But I have to wonder where we go from here."
"Isn't it obvious?" Rin smirked as she placed her chin in her hand, leaning on the arm of her chair. "You still need to register with the church. After that, I will be more than happy to defeat you and your servant."
"You speak as though I don't have a prayer." I chuckled. The son of a priest without a prayer. "Can you really be so certain of your victory?"
"Of course. We both know I'm the superior magus between us. If we were to battle, even if our servants are evenly matched, I would defeat you and force you to surrender. Then, you'd also be my servant."
"Is that how we're doing this?" I reached down and took my own teacup from the table between us. I could see Saber eyeing me curiously as I sipped the tea, which was delicious. I'll say this for Archer, he makes a good cup of milk tea. "And I assume the reverse is true?"
"It wouldn't be interesting if it wasn't."
My studies of the previous grail wars had made one thing clear. Alliances between masters never succeeded. The conflict of interests over who would have their wish granted always led to a breakdown at the end of the war. That, or one of them would die before ever reaching that point. However, if one of us were to clearly assert a position of dominance over the other, it would be clear who the final master would be if we made it to the end of the war.
"Alright, Rin Tohsaka. It would also be my pleasure to defeat you."
I stood from my chair, reaching out my left hand toward my enemy.
"May the best master win."
She stood as well, taking my hand with a self-assured smile.
"I will."
…
"Master, how can you be sure you can defeat her?"
"I'm not."
We walked north toward the Fuyuki Bridge and the bus stop nearby. The events of this morning clearly bothered my servant.
"Then, why did you make that bet with her?"
That was hard to explain.
"What she said was true. I will never be as powerful a magus as her. The only magecraft we found I'm competent with are reinforcement and projection."
As an example, I projected a shortsword. When Father discovered where my talents lay, he brought me several different weapons to see what the breadth of my capabilities were. As such, I had a small catalogue of weapons to project.
"I'm also able to reinforce my body and objects I touch by analyzing their structure and strengthening them through my understanding."
The sword dissipated in my grip.
"Rin, however, is a rare breed among magi. Capable of harnessing all five elements of magic, her potential is far greater than mine for that fact alone. Add in that she also bears the Tohsaka family crest, one built up with centuries worth of magical knowledge, and it's clear who is superior."
Saber furrowed her brows as she took in my words.
"However, I am superior in physical combat. If I'm able to close the distance before she can lock me down with her spells, I can easily incapacitate her. In the end, the deciding factor between our fight would be distance. I suppose we share that problem, Saber. If Archer can lock you into ranged combat, you'll have just as hard a time as me."
Saber looked back where we came, likely trying to figure out how she'd face Archer.
"We'll cross that bridge when we come to it," I try to reassure her. I'll likely think of something when I have time to myself. "For now, let's cross this one."
I pointed at Fuyuki Bridge which slowly came into sight from behind the buildings. We could both see the bus stop now, but I knew it'd be another five minutes before the next bus came rolling by.
As we sat and waited for the bus, I thought about what I told Saber. My reason for taking Rin's bet was more than just the possibility of victory. In the end, I wanted to beat her. No, it was more than that. I wanted to compete with her. Wanted to show her I'm just as strong as she is, despite my lack of natural talent. I needed to prove my strength, because if I couldn't… what?
Forget it. The reason doesn't matter. Today, all I needed to worry about was how we would reach that goal. To that end…
"Saber. What is your true name?
Saber looked at me, her eyes revealing how much she was considering her answer. She looked off to the bridge as she spoke.
"I am Artoria Pendragon, King of Britain, and wielder of the holy sword Excalibur."
"…"
I wasn't sure how to respond to that. This teenage girl was telling me she was the legendary King Arthur, and I wasn't sure I could doubt her claims. History was a very muddled thing. Facts and fiction are often twisted, and even fictitious hero could be summoned in the grail war. Then, I remembered something from the records.
"The same King Arthur who was summoned in the last Holy Grail War? The servant of Kiritsugu Emiya?"
The church kept detailed records on all previous grail wars, from its masters and servants to the different locations the grail manifested. The identity of every servant that ever participated is catalogued and stored away for future reference. Father had me study the records as part of my training, as though preparing me for participation.
"Yes," Saber twinged slightly at the name, a frown crossing her lips. "Is this information necessary, Master?"
"Perhaps. I can't recall any two grail wars where the same servant was summoned. The reason I have summoned you may be connected to your previous master. Though, I am unable to think of any possible link."
Father was the only survivor of the Fourth Holy Grail War. Any relics Kiritsugu Emiya may have used to summon King Arthur would have likely been lost with the master. Equally strange, no catalyst had been used during my summoning, so the odds of me summoning the same servant were next to impossible. There was something I was missing.
"It's possible," Saber put her hand to her chin. "That we may find an answer to your question with the Einzbern Family. Emiya represented them in the previous war, so they may know how such a thing could occur."
The Einzberns. One of the three mage families that established the Holy Grail War alongside the Tohsakas and Matous. She was right. If anyone might be able to explain the oddity, it would be a founding family. Not to mention, the same family who likely provided the catalyst for Saber's last summons.
"We'll have to investigate that avenue later," I pointed at the approaching bus. "For now, we go to the church."
The bus hissed to a halt before us, and we stepped aboard without another word.
…
"Wait out here, Saber. I'll only be a minute."
Saber nodded as I pushed open the metal gate leading to the church grounds. I walked the long familiar path from the gate to the church, its form looming over me like a white giant. The Virgin Mary greeted me as I passed under the church archway, her smiling face looking down on me like an old friend.
"Good morning to you as well," I said. A habit I picked up over the years. It was only polite to reply when greeted.
I pushed the doors open to reveal the sanctuary of the church. Pews spread out before me in four columns leading to pulpit, where Father was carefully placing a vase of white flowers on a cloth covered platform. Light streamed in from the windows high above, the panes casting intricate shadows over the white surface of the walls and ceiling. Father turned to face me, his cassock swaying with the movement.
"Shirou. What brings you to the house of God, my son?"
His words bore no warmth, only mild familiarity. He moved to stand in front of the pulpit, every movement like the slow prowl of a predator. It was something I was very familiar with, and something I had been working to imitate for years. Just by the presence he exuded in every step, authority and power was communicated in some primal way.
"Father," I kept my voice neutral, working to match his own tone. "Something has occurred that I require the overseer of the Holy Grail War."
"I see," Father began walking toward me, slow and sure as always. "Tell me of your troubles, my son. What sort of occurrence would require that you approach me today?"
I took in a breath and slowly released it. My Father noticed the motion, and I saw curiosity flicker across his eyes. I understood why. If I had come to ask for protection, I wouldn't be so averse to saying so. He knew it was something else.
"I have become the master of Saber," I presented my left hand, the red command seals displayed prominently. "Therefore, I have come to register."
It was for the briefest of instants, imperceptible to anyone who hadn't spent as much time with him as I. His steps faltered for the first time I had ever seen in my life. It was all I could do to keep the surprise off my face.
"Is that so?" He looked down at my hand for a moment before speaking. "I believe it is my duty as your father to ask if you're certain taking this path. In this war between masters and servants, it is almost expected that death will find you."
No concern or worry entered his tone. He was simply laying out the facts, making sure I was fully prepared for where this choice may lead me. This was how he always approached his role as father.
"I am fully prepared to face death, as you yourself are aware."
Our eyes locked, each silently examining the other. His expression remained impassive, carefully crafted to hide any intentions he might have. He'd been drilling me for years, training me to also adopt such a façade when necessary. However, mine always showed more cracks than his. There was something about him that seemed to make the action of giving away nothing almost like instinct.
"Very well," he placed his hands behind his back before turning to walk back toward the pulpit. "It is clear nothing I say will sway you from your course."
Why did my words cause such a reaction? Was it because he didn't want me in the war to begin with? There must be something else. Something I'm missing.
"Shirou Kotomine," Father faced me once more. "The church recognizes you as the master of the saber servant in the Fifth Holy Grail War. Rejoice, my son, for you are about to partake in the most difficult trial of your life. May you find what you seek at the end of this path you now walk."
I bowed, not meeting his gaze as I turned back toward the door. If I did, I wasn't sure I could hide my suspicions. First, he wants me out of Miyama and the grail war. Now, he seeks to subtly dissuade me from participating with his words. What was he hiding?
"Shirou."
I stopped without turning back, my hand on the door handle.
"Remember #20."
The door closed behind me with a soft thud.
#20-Should you ever take part in the grail war, remember that there are rules that must be followed, except when they are not.
R: So, there are no rules?
K: They are more akin to guidelines. Useful, but able to be ignored.
….
We left the Hyatt Hotel, luggage in hand, and made our way back to the bus stop. One suitcase of clothes and two bags of groceries, both of which were carried by Saber, and I was ready to move. I had turned in my card at the front desk, leaving me only two options for my new base. Luckily, they were both in the same direction.
It was almost one by the time we were once again at the Tohsaka mansion, but Saber informed me she could no longer sense Archer's presence. They must have gone out to do something. Not that it changed much. I took out the key she'd given me when I was staying here and inserted it in the lock. With a twist of the key and turn of the knob, we entered the empty house.
Saber heads up to our room to drop off the suitcase while I brought the groceries to the kitchen, quickly putting them away. Good thing too, her fringe was practically empty.
I went back to the sitting room to find Saber already waiting for me. I took a seat in one of the chairs and motioned for her to do the same.
"Are you sure this is wise, Master?" she asked as she took the seat beside me. "Rin Tohsaka is the enemy. We may very well be leaving ourselves open to a surprise attack."
"Unlikely," I leaned on the arm of my chair. "Rin prefers to take her opponents head-on, leaving no question to whether or not she won on her own merits. If anything, she would need to worry about me taking advantage of such a situation."
Saber gave me a decidedly displeased look.
"No, I don't have any intentions of the sort," I shook my head. "Rin will likely be willing to give us lodging on the grounds that the house becomes neutral territory. This gives us a location closer to where we have already witnessed three other servants. Servants don't tend to wander far from their masters, logically meaning we should be able to find both Lancer's and Assassin's masters close by."
"Then, what will we be doing tonight? I'm assuming you have a plan on how we'd find these masters."
As of then, no. I did not have a plan. In all honesty, I hadn't given it much thought yet. However, that was not important at the moment.
"I'll tell you later. For now, It's time for lunch. You wait here while I go make something up."
She made to protest as I rose but was interrupted by a soft growling from her stomach. I couldn't blame her. Neither of us had eaten anything today, and her strange existence seemed to require sustenance like any mortal body.
With that, I moved into the kitchen, considering what I would make for the King of England.
…
"Master, that is completely unnecessary. I am perfectly able to perform my duties as your servant."
"Saber," I stuck my hand into the soapy water to pull out a plate. "I will not have my servant failing in battle due to fatigue. Go get some sleep."
And give me time to work out a strategy for tonight.
"A servant could easily attack us without anyone realizing. I must be prepared for combat at all times."
"No one will attack us," I began wiping the plate with a rag, the leftover debris from Saber's appetite falling into the sink strainer. "Lancer seemed content to watch for now, the servant that attacked me, most likely Assassin, would wait until you were far too occupied to defend me, and caster servants tend to prefer battles in their own domains of power, so it is unlikely they would attack here."
"I notice you didn't mention Rider or Berserker?" Saber said dryly.
I grimaced as I placed the plate in the drainboard, reaching in the water for the other.
"The Rider in every war tends to be a wild card in how they operate. The Tohsakas summoned Georgios in the third war, and he spent the majority of his time protecting both civilians and enemy masters from the fallout of servant combat. I'm sure I don't need to remind you how the Rider in the previous war acted."
Saber scowled at the words. It was becoming clear that Saber disliked the previous grail war in its entirety. I wasn't going to pry on the details, but she did lose in the end, so it likely had to do with that failure.
"And if it were Berserker, I'm fairly certain it would be impossible for them to approach without alerting us in some way. Now, with all that being said, go. To. Sleep."
Saber stared at me sternly for several seconds. I slowly began wiping the other plate. I regretted how unauthoritative I must have appeared as I washed the dishes.
"Very well," she replied tersely. "I will trust your judgement. If I am required, I will be in our room."
She turned and left the kitchen, leaving me to place the plate in the drainboard.
Once I had finished, I moved to the back of the mansion and exited out to the manor grounds. An extravagantly large space greeted me, brick walkways spreading out from the stone platform I stood upon. A large lawn bearing a broken structure at its center laid out before me as I moved down the steps. The sun hung high in the sky as a chilly breeze gently swept by. The silence and emptiness of the familiar scene soothed me like few other things. Here, in this place, it felt like I was the only thing alive. A feeling similar to yet standing in stark contrast to that night ten years ago.
I moved over to the broken ornament and sat in the one oddity in the lawn. An indent, practically invisible from a distance, only different from the rest of the lawn by elevation. I laid back on the grass, closing my eyes as I simply let the world drift away. Here, I was alone. Here, there was only me and my thoughts. Here, I was at peace.
I wandered through my mind, thoughts slowly floating by through a dark expanse. I decided to review what I knew of the grail war. The memories swept over, images and names quietly echoing as they passed. I saw something that caught my eye, recalling the memory back. It returned to me alone, gently twirling around my body as I recounted the information.
There were four locations from which the Holy Grail would manifest in Fuyuki. I pushed aside the Fuyuki Central Park, sending it spiraling off into the distance. The park was unlikely to be used again. The area was to full of malice and pain to manifest a relic such as the Grail once more. The church crossed before me, but that thought flew off as well. The church was used in the third war, and it could possibly be used again, but I thought I was beginning to see a pattern. First, it was Ryuudo Temple on Mount Enzou. Next, it was the Tohsaka mansion. Then, the aforementioned church. Finally, the area that would become Fuyuki Central Park.
While only a theory, it's very likely that the ley lines at each location the Grail manifested need a refractory period before they can be used again, leading to the use of a different location every war. Therefore, if my theory is correct, the next location for the Grail's evocation would be Ryuudo Temple due to the other sites recollecting mana after their previous use. Then again, it's just as likely it would manifest in a completely new location, but I'll work under the assumption that won't happen.
If someone else were to come to the same conclusion, it would be likely they would station their base close to the site, feeding off the mana collecting for the summoning of the Grail. It was the very reason the Tohsaka's always used their mansion as their home base, or why members of the clergy are forbidden from participating in the war. The power used to manifest something of such immense strength was an easy source of energy for servants to absorb.
I dismissed the thoughts, letting them flow along as they were. I was about to open my eyes, but something stopped me. Something was… strange. My thoughts flowed toward some unknown destination. I followed them, intrigued by the odd movements. They snaked and wriggled onward, a wavy trail leading me forward. The thoughts seemed to collapse in on one point, a cloaked figure absorbing the wayward thoughts like a vacuum. The figure didn't seem familiar, and I was certain I had never seen anything like it. However, something about it was wrong. It slowly turned to face me, and I froze.
Death. It was death. It was the death I knew.
Suddenly, the world was set ablaze, the figure the only thing untouched by the flames. The fire closed in on me, closing off every path but toward the figure. The hood drawn over the specter covered all but their mouth, strangely shaded purple. It pointed its arm toward me, its lips moving to form a single word that coursed over me like wave.
"Come."
My body began moving on its own, tentative steps moving toward the dark spirit. The word kept repeating over and over, each intoxicating sound drawing me closer. It was wrong, so very wrong. I tried to pull away, but my body wouldn't listen. Another step. My eyes flicked about, searching for escape, but the only other thing in the world was fire.
Fire.
I hated what I was about to do. I focused on my left leg, concentrating solely on the limb, blocking out the words as much as I could. As it took its next step, I pulled it back, letting my weight continue downward. My body fell toward the flames.
I suppose walking through Hell doesn't appeal anymore.
"No!" I heard the figure cry out.
My eyes flashed open, my breathing hard and fast. I found with a start that I was on my side, halfway across the lawn back to the manor. I remained motionless, taking in the world around me as I composed my thoughts.
The sun was low in the sky, the world slowly covered in a shade of orange. Long shadows cast across the lawn, my own joining them as I sat myself up.
What just happened? That was more than a dream. It was magic. And that figure. Caster? It seemed to be the only option. Maybe one of the Hassan had the ability to enter dreams, but that would mean the servant last night wasn't an Assassin. Then again, a Rider with a unique ability could…
Stop! You could stay here until nightfall, and you'd still be no closer to finding the answer asking those questions. You need to focus.
I calmed my breathing, focusing on the soft grass under me to ground my thoughts. When my breathing finally returned to normal, I pushed myself to my feet, beginning to stroll back to the mansion.
Now think. Don't focus on what servant attacked you. Focus on the reason why. The fact that I'm a master could be reason enough, but why would they wait till now? It's unlikely they would know Saber is mildly incapacitated right now unless they could view into the house through all the defensive magecraft the Tohsakas set up.
A Rider wouldn't normally have the skills needed to hide their presence from Saber, so that only left Assassin and Caster. An Assassin's presence concealment was absolute, making infiltration a non-issue for their class. That leads to the question, "Why, if Assassin had already infiltrated the defenses without alerting Saber, would they try to draw me away instead of killing me?" They could end my life and fade away before Saber had a chance to retaliate. That opportunity would be too perfect. This wasn't Assassin's doing.
That left Caster.
I stepped up the stairs leading to the back door, entering the mansion before moving into the sitting room. The house was silent and dark as day began fading into night. I turned on the lights and sat in a chair.
Why did Caster attack now? No, not attack. She was calling to me, trying to pull me somewhere. Where was she taking me? It was likely she was trying to separate me from my servant, making me an easy target. Taking that into account, her location must be within walking distance. Unless, of course, she was planning on dragging my body all the way across the city, but I decided to file that under unlikely. That, however, planted an idea in my head.
A Caster located somewhere within walking distance, likely near a place of power. One who just so happened to perform a mental assault on a master immediately after they considered the possibility of Ryuudo Temple being an excellent location for a master to form a base. However, this was all based on the assumption that there was a frankly unlikely connection between Caster, my thoughts, and the temple. Even so, it was the only lead I had. No point in ignoring it.
I heard a door upstairs close, which was followed by footsteps descending the stairway. I turned my head to see Saber entering through the door, her face as calm as ever.
"Master, I am rested and ready for battle. Have you decided on our next course of action?"
I felt a small smile creep across my lips. If Caster had wished for me to come visit them, it would be rude to refuse such an invitation.
"Prepare yourself, Saber," I rose and faced my servant. She moved aside a I moved to the door. "Tonight, we pay a visit to Caster."
Saber's head tilted slightly to the side as I moved past, but she said nothing. I headed up to our room, finding the futon Saber had been sleeping on at the foot of the bed. I found my red jacket hanging from the wardrobe's handles. A gift from Rin, the jacket was slightly darker in hue than her coat. I slid my arms into it and made my way down to the entrance.
I locked the door as we exited. Looking to the ever-darkening sky, I predicted night would fall by the time we reached the temple. A dark blanket over a conflict of ancient power, stars watching with rapt attention as the earth shook under their battle.
That almost made it sound like more than just people killing each other over something that isn't theirs. Even so, I couldn't help but anticipate seeing Saber in action.
Tonight was going to be interesting.
…
We walked up the dark stone steps, the trees rising around us like pillars of night. The air was strangely still, the forest quiet as though the world was holding its breath. Perhaps it was my imagination, but I think Saber felt it too.
She had equipped her armor since we left the manor, ready for any trouble that we may have encountered on our way here. Now, I could see her hands at her right side, miming a grip around that invisible weapon of hers. I understood how she felt. I slipped a black key into each of my hands just in case.
As we approached the temple gate, a figure rose from their seat on the top of the stairs. He was something pulled out of a history book. A simple samurai, sans any form of armor. The only thing I found odd was how purple the ensemble was. The swordsman bore an absurdly long sword slung across his back.
Both Saber and I stopped one level below the man. Saber relinquished her right hand's grip on her unseen weapon as her eyes narrowed.
"Master," she said firmly. "I advise that you stay back. That man is a servant."
That was curious. The grail was only meant to summon western heroes, but here was Saber telling me this clearly Japanese man was a servant.
"She is correct," the servant said, a small smile gracing his lips. "My name is Sasaki Kojirou, and I am an Assassin."
Saber looked as surprised as I felt. A servant revealing their true name so willingly would be shock enough, but now I had the revelation that it was Rider who had hunted me the previous night. But if that was the case, why had she been so easily chased off? The wound I had inflicted on her was superficial to a servant, so it wasn't too hard to imagine her taking advantage of my weakened state to force Saber into troublesome positions. Yet, she retreated without even attempting to do so. And then there was this servant. Why would an assassin reveal himself to us? Assassins have never had the power to confront other servants head on, but here he was.
So many questions, and yet, so few answers.
"May I ask why ones such as you darken my gate?"
His words flowed smoothly as he watched us with mild interest.
"It was my belief that I had been invited," I stuck my hands in my pockets, further concealing the black keys in my palms. "But I seem to have found the wrong servant."
"Ah," Assassin turned his head slightly to look over his shoulder. "You seek the witch. I must apologize then, for I have orders to let no one past this gate."
So, Caster was here. Their masters must be working together in this war. Alliances are always made, but I wondered how long that would last.
"That is unfortunate," I gave the servant a small shrug. "It seems Saber will have to settle for fighting you. I hope you're not adverse to the idea."
"Not in the slightest," Assassin shook his head as he drew the long blade on his back. Light glinted down the length of the sword as he held it at his side. "I have been curious as to how those in the west do combat."
His calm demeanor and nonchalance gave me pause. There must be some trick he seeks to employ. Assassins never confront their enemies head-on. There was something I was missing.
"Saber, be mindful of this one," I moved down to the third level as I spoke. "There's something amiss, but I'm not sure what."
Saber nodded as she took her invisible sword in both hands once more. When I turned back and looked up the steps, neither servant had moved. They watched each other silently, Assassin's smile remaining on his face as Saber suddenly charged up the steps.
What followed was an awe-inspiring display of skill and speed. Assassin's blade flashed through the air like a ray of light, every swipe elegantly and precisely clashing with the unseen blade of my servant. The surrounding forest was filled with the melodic clashing of metal as each attack rang out through the night. Saber's attacks, full of power and resolve, swung toward Assassin like the strikes of a hammer, each blow fully capable of ending the fight instantly. Assassin took every swing with impossible grace, seeming to effortlessly deflect and dodge Saber's onslaught before retaliating immediately with the speed of lightening, his own blade flashing in only to be narrowly blocked by Saber's phantasmal sword.
As the servants continued their battle, it became clear that Saber was in a bind. No matter how fervently she attacked, Assassin continued to push her back down the steps using his elevated position. This ceased when Assassin had driven Saber back to the level below. Assassin stopped his attacks, his blade lowering as Saber watched him, and I could practically feel her raised eyebrow.
Barely a minute had passed.
"Now, this is surprising. I should have removed your head countless times now, and still it remains attached to your body. I must admit that I'm impressed."
"As am I, Assassin," Saber lowered her blade as well. "For one of such slight build, your prowess with a blade is undeniable."
"Beauty, strength, and charm. Truly, you are a feller of men. However, I do believe I now know the length of your sword."
I saw Saber stiffen for a second. In her position, I may have as well. She probably counted on the unknown quantity her invisible sword granted her, sowing uncertainty in her opponents. Now, he was telling her that advantage was gone.
"Now, the true battle may begin."
Saber raised her blade, and I could feel her determination as she once more advanced the steps toward Assassin. Their blades clashed, the beautiful dance of steel and death beginning anew. Assassin's moves seemed to grow faster, each strike and parry surer than the last. In contrast, Saber seemed forced onto the defensive, her own attacks fewer and spaced farther from one another.
I came to the slow realization the Saber may not win this battle. Her skills with a sword may be far beyond human capabilities, but this Assassin was something else entirely. He never seemed to repeat a move, each attack unexpected and new. Every flash of his blade followed by the screech of metal, each attack barely blocked. What kind of Assassin could surpass a Saber servant in bladed combat?
"It would seem you are faltering, Saber," Assassin said as he deflected another swing. "Perhaps you should take this fight seriously."
"What are you implying, Assassin?" Saber said through gritted teeth as she blocked yet another unforeseen strike.
"That it is insulting," Assassin swung three quick arcs, forcing Saber to backpedal to the level below. An action that clearly irritated her, citing her own lack of forward progress before his skill. "To fight one who praises your skill with a blade yet continues to keep their own sheathed."
What an unorthodox Assassin. He was asking her to lay everything bare as he had. Even if her noble phantasm could easily dispatch him, he wishes for her to use it. This servant throws out everything an Assassin should be and, even so, probably has gotten closer to killing a Saber than any other servant of the class. I couldn't deny that I respected that.
Saber looked back at me, and I knew what she wanted to ask. If she were to reveal her noble phantasm, critical information could be exposed to the enemy. While I'm sure neither of us was worried about Assassin, Caster was allied with him. When I looked in Saber's eyes, I could see she wished to honor his request, her chivalric code demanding such. My immediate impulse was to deny the request, but Saber may very well be killed if I did such.
Assassin must have seen my indecision because he began walking down the steps.
"You place so much worry on what may happen," Saber's guard rose as Assassin came to stand across from her for the first time. "That you seem to forget what will if you cannot make a decision."
Assassin turned to Saber, her eyes trained solely on him as he brought his sword back to become level with his shoulder, his left hand coming up to grip below the other as he aimed the blade towards her.
"Perhaps, a demonstration is in order."
Whatever he was planning, it was most assuredly deadly. Saber knew this as well, her blade ready to counter whatever strike came. No one moved as the world seemed to crawl forward, the warriors staring each other down as each dared the other to act first. Killing intent rippled through the air like a cloud, the servants practically seething the malicious presence. All attention was fixed on this one moment in time where one of the two was promised a swift death.
Which made it the perfect time to strike.
I was barely able to make out the new source of malice before I heard the metal rattling, but by then, it was too late. A nail shot out of the darkness of the trees, and I tried to leap away from the attack. I managed to avoid a body blow, but the chain pierced through my leg. I cried out in pain as the chains somehow coiled and tightened themselves around my leg before the second nail flew towards me. It was knocked out of the air as Saber put herself between me and the woods.
I released the keys and moved to pull the chain from my left leg, but I was suddenly yanked forward, our unseen enemy reeling me in. Saber grabbed my arm before I could be pulled into the trees, but my leg felt like it was going to tear from the opposing forces. I was about to command Saber to let go when the second nail came hurtling toward me once more. Saber wouldn't be able to block from her position, so I reinforced my body in hopes of not giving the servant another anchor.
That was proven needless as Assassin's blade swept before me, deflecting the nail as easily as he had Saber's sword. He then gripped the nail in my leg and deftly dislodged the offending weapon. The chains lost their grip as the nail shot back into the shadows of the trees. I gritted my teeth, letting out a grunt of pain as Saber pulled me down, standing over me protectively.
Everyone was alert now, our eyes scanning the tree line for further attacks. After several seconds, Assassin lowered his blade.
"It appears I have been made a pawn in another's game."
Assassin turned and began walking back up the steps. Saber watched him carefully.
"You would turn your back to your opponent?" she asked with slight irritation in her tone.
"This is a fight between warriors, not a spectacle for spies. I have no wish to fight for another's benefit."
He turned back to face us on the level above, a confident smile dancing on his face.
"We will call tonight's duel a draw. Should you wish to finish our battle, you need only try to pass through these gates once more. But when that day comes, I hope you are prepared to face me with everything."
Seconds passed as Saber fixed her gaze upon Assassin before finally nodding.
"You are a foe worthy of my full attention, Kojirou Sasaki. The next time our blades cross, I will leave no question of my resolve."
"Careful now," Assassin's smile broadened as his form slowly dissipated. "Keep speaking like that, and I'll be mourning more than the loss of such a strong foe."
And then, he was gone.
Saber knelt, putting my left arm over her shoulders before pulling me up. We then began making our way back down the many steps that lead to Ryuudo.
"I do hope this doesn't become a habit, Master," her tone was mildly disapproving. "It would be troublesome if you were injured after every battle."
"It seems that Rider will be a greater issue than I thought," I looked down at my bleeding leg, annoyed that I had been caught off guard. "Her master seems to bear a vendetta toward me."
Saber hummed thoughtfully before replying.
"Which means it must be someone you know or knows of you."
She was probably right, which was bad. Likely, this meant there was a third master at the school. Unless Saber was always with me, Rider could attack at any moment.
"For the time being, we must make Rider and her master our top priority. We can't risk them catching us off guard like that again."
Saber nodded at my words.
"For now, let us focus on getting to safety, Master. It's possible there are other servants waiting to strike."
I scowled at the words, but we fell silent as we continued down the steps.
Once again, I could do no more than let another carry me around. If I'm going to win this war, and defeat the enemies before me, I needed to be stronger. Smarter. I couldn't keep burdening her with my weakness. She shouldn't have to worry about me. I refuse to drag her down. I…
Was getting off track. Focus. Both Caster and Assassin reside at Ryuudo. Likely, their masters are there as well. I should ask Issei if anyone new has come to the temple. Rider's master was likely someone at the school, meaning narrowing down who it was would be crucial in removing a dangerous obstacle. I should watch those I interact with tomorrow closely. Lancer was off somewhere, doing who knows what. Archer was with Rin, making him a worry for later. All that left…
"I thought I sensed servants battling."
Stepping off the stairs, we looked to our left to find a small girl in a purple coat and hat standing in the middle of the wide street. The girl's pale face and snow-white hair made her red eyes all the more noticeable. As I wondered what an albino child would be doing here in the middle of the night, I saw him.
Stepping out from behind the girl, a mountain of a man breathed out large wafts of steam in the cold night air. The man's muscles were like stone slabs, and his hair was a long, tangled mass. The most striking aspect of the man was the massive weapon he wielded in his right hand. I didn't need Saber to tell me.
Berserker.
"It seems that we're late to the party," the girl tilted her head to the side, bearing a smile far too frigid to be that of a child's. "I hope you're willing to entertain us anyway."
"Master," I looked at Saber as she spoke, her own eyes riveted to the new arrivals. "That is an Einzbern."
I glanced back at the child. This girl was a member of the family that summoned Saber last time. Looking at her, she's probably too young to know how it happened. I doubt she'd be willing to tell me how they summoned Saber even if she could.
"Very perceptive of you," the girl pulled up the sides of her coat and curtsied. "My name is Illyasviel von Einzbern. Not that it matters much, though."
Berserker began to move as the girl's eyes twinkled with malicious glee.
"The dead don't need to remember names."
Saber threw me to the side as Berserker began charging us with a mighty roar. I rolled to a stop a few meters away. The sight that greeted me when I regained my senses was very different than the previous battle.
Every clash sent shockwaves rippling out through the air. Berserker swung his weapon with far greater force than Assassin ever did, like comparing a rifle to a warhead. Saber looked as though every strike would take her off her feet, matching every blow with equal ferocity. The road crumbled and broke under the servants' strength as Saber danced and struck between Berserker's brutal attacks.
How useless. If I hadn't been injured, I could be supporting Saber. If I could take out the Einzbern girl, Berserker would go wild and burn through his mana reserves quickly. Saber might have been able to take advantage of such a state. Damn that Rider.
"You must feel so weak right now."
I looked away from the fight to find the girl had crossed the distance between us. She looked down on me, a haughty look in her eyes.
"I'm not sure who you fought," her eyes glided over my bloody pant leg. "But if your servant let that happen to you, she definitely won't defeat Berserker."
I raised my eyebrow. Her words were taunting, but her tone didn't convey it. Why was she saying this?
"You know nothing of Saber," I began pushing myself up into a sitting position. "Yet, you already judge her effectiveness as a servant. Is it hubris or ignorance?"
The girl giggled.
"I just know that no servant can defeat Berserker. Can you say the same for Saber?"
I narrowed my eyes at her. What was her reason for this conversation? I'm almost defenseless, a lamb ripe for slaughter. If she decided to kill me, there's nothing Saber could do to stop her. So why carry on like this? What was she after?
"I trust her not to fail me."
She tilted her head to the side, a questioning look on her face.
"But haven't you already failed her?"
That was most certainly a taunt. She was playing at something.
"If you only seek to mock me, you may as well end me now."
I felt my anger rise slightly despite myself as she laughed at my words.
"Now, why would I do that? I'd have no one to talk to while Berserker fights."
I restrained a sigh at my own thick-headedness. She was a child. I was merely entertainment while her servant worked. She was literally playing with me right now. However, if this was a game, I may as well play along.
I slipped another black key into my left palm before I got my right knee under me. I projected a spear and planted it in the ground, pulling myself up the weapon with the same hand as the key. As girl's eyes went wide with interest, I realized my leg didn't feel nearly as pained as it should have.
"Well then, Miss Einzbern," I grimaced as, despite the lessened pain, placing weight on my leg sent pain shooting up its length. "Perhaps I should introduce myself."
I reached out my right hand. I didn't force a smile. Even a child magus would see right through it.
"Shirou Kotomine."
She stared at my hand before laughing once more. As she did, I saw Saber fly backward out of the corner of my eye with Berserker chasing after her. The earth shook with every bounding step as they rushed from my eyeline. Now was the perfect chance.
The girl reached out her own hand, and I thought a genuine smile was now on her face. The black key I had hidden suddenly felt a little heavier. I steeled my resolve. She was the enemy.
"It's nice to meet you."
She took my hand, and I reinforced my leg. I couldn't risk it giving out on me right now. I pulled her closer, releasing the spear and infusing the black key with mana. As she moved past me, surprise on her face as her hat slid off her head, I wrapped my arm around her and placed the blade against her neck. Her short stature forced me to go back to my knee, bringing me level with her.
My perspective changed, and I could once more see Saber and Berserker fighting. Their forms clashed as their battle continued with intense fervor. Neither servant seemed aware of what was occurring between their masters.
"This is quite the greeting you've given me."
Her head turned to look at me. Even if it was only half her face, I saw there was no fear or anger there. In fact, there was mild amusement in her eye. Suddenly, she seemed a lot more mature than before.
"I don't blame you for doing this, but I have to wonder if you thought this through."
I may have judged a bit too much on her appearance if she was giving me a lecture on intelligent decisions.
"I'm simply taking the course I believe will keep me in the war. Surely, a fellow master can understand."
This girl really liked giggling.
"And what course is that? If you kill me, Berserker will go on a rampage. You'll likely be caught in the fallout before he disappears. If you don't, Saber will die, and you will have lost. It's not a good choice when both paths lead to dead-ends."
She was right. Saber could probably kill Berserker if his master were dead, but she likely wouldn't be able to protect me at the same time. Which was why I was making this gamble.
"I don't plan to die tonight. By the same token, I don't want to kill you if I can help it. Keeping this in mind, I would like to propose a third option."
She watched me closely, her eye examining my face closely. Then, the same small smile she bore when she shook my hand earlier reappeared.
"And what would you be proposing?"
"Rider has been lurking around. She strikes out at me using hit-and-run tactics, always escaping before I can counter."
I exaggerated a little to help drive the point home.
I released my hold on her and dissipated my black key. She took a step away before facing me once more.
"In two days, I will kill her."
She seemed amused by my statement. I was beginning to think that was her default emotion.
"Two days is a bit long. Do you expect me to wait?
"Tomorrow, I will set a trap for the servant. Then, the next day, she will die. Simple as that."
"So it sounds," she adopted a wondering look, tapping her finger against her chin. "But I can't help but wonder from where your confidence comes."
"Likely," I shrugged with the words. "The same place your confidence in Berserker does."
That was a lie. Compared to Saber, Berserker was like a directed force of nature. If I was going to kill him, I needed time to plan. Rider was nothing to her, so she had no real reason to accept my proposal when I was the only beneficiary. To that end…
"If I cannot kill her by February fifth, then my life is yours."
My life wasn't worth much anyway. I died ten years ago, leaving only a recycled soul seeking purpose. Death would simply be the Reaper collecting his due. However, she didn't need to know that.
She gazed into my eyes, trying to peer beyond the surface to see my intentions. I gazed back and found something I wasn't expecting. Beneath the childlike veneer and almost icy calm, I thought I saw something… lonely.
"You don't value your life much, do you?"
I kept the surprise off my face. I needed to be more careful. I had forgotten to regulate my expression. However, the way she said it, it almost sounded nostalgic.
"I've waited this long," she sighed and shook her head. "What's two more days?"
Einzbern turned to look at our servants' battle. Instantly, Berserker stopped attacking, spun in place, and charged back toward us. Saber rushed after him, and I could see the determination on her face to prevent me from being targeted. Berserker stopped before the small girl, silently looking down at her.
"You are an interesting man, Shirou Kotomine," Einzbern turned her head and gave me a smile. "I look forward to our next meeting. I trust I will not have to search for you if you fail?"
"I'm the son of a priest," I wasn't sure why, but a smile now came easily to my face. I attributed it to my relief at surviving the night despite the odds. "My word is my law."
"Hmm," she sounded as convinced as I was. "Then, we will be waiting at Einzbern Castle. I'm sure you'll find your way there when the time comes."
Oddly, she gave me a small, friendly wave as she and her servant moved past. Saber came to my side and silently watched them leave before finally speaking.
"Master, what did you do to make them leave peacefully?"
"I believe," I watched the figures fade into the night. "I just made a deal with the Devil."
…
I opened the mansion door without knocking, finding the lights on. Rin must have been back. My leg only throbbed dully now, so I was able to limp along at a normal pace. Saber had insisted on helping me on the way, but I could manage walking around the house.
Archer materialized leaning against the right wall, watching us through narrowed eyes. Rin rounded the corner to the stairway, a frown on her lips. She was wearing her casual attire of a red turtleneck and black skirt, meaning she had been here a while.
"Shirou," she crossed her arms. "Why is there a suitcase and futon in the guest room?"
"I'm moving back in," I began heading for the stairs. "We'll talk in a minute. I need to take care of this first."
I gestured to my leg and her eyes followed. She raised an eyebrow at my injury.
"Will this happen every time you come back?"
Already accepting my presence here? I expected her to fight me a little on this.
"Not if I can help it," I moved past Rin and gripped the handrail. "Can you show Saber where you keep the bandages?"
Rin stared at me before letting out a sigh. She moved to another room, Saber following close behind her.
I ascended the stairs, finding Archer waiting for me at the top, still leaning against the wall. I raised an eyebrow at that. Did he dematerialize then jump up here just to meet me?
Taking the final step, I released the handrail and turned toward my room.
"What do you hope to gain from this?"
I looked at Archer. His head was down, his eyes closed as if deep in thought. He gave no sign he had spoken or given me the slightest thought.
"A greater chance at victory. Nothing more."
His eye opened, and he stared silently at me for several moments.
"Is that so?"
Archer pushed off the wall and walked toward me and the stairs. He passed without giving me another glance and descended the stairs. I watched him disappear around the corner, wondering the purpose of his inquiry. It was certainly about more than the reason I was moving into the home of my competitor.
I entered the guest room and removed my jacket, hanging it once more on the wardrobe handle. I sat where I had the last night and projected a dagger into my hand. I split the pant leg, pulling the damp folds away from my leg.
Through the blood caking my leg, I saw a hole similar to the one in my chest. Remembering the wound, I took off my shirt. Removing the tape, I began unwinding the bandages around my body. Placing them at my side, I examined where Rider had stabbed me last night. I frowned suspiciously at the scar that had taken the hole's place. That is an impossibly short period for it to already be a scar. While this said good things about my leg, I couldn't help but wonder what the cause was.
The door opened, and Saber walked in holding the medical kit. She'd changed out of her armor and into her casual clothes once more. She kneeled in front of me, and I noticed a damp cloth resting on the kit. No bowl of water, but I noticed a small towel draped on her right arm. She placed the towel and kit to the side before holding the cloth toward my leg. I reached out and took hold of the damp linen.
"I'll do it myself."
The only reason I didn't do it last time was that I could barely stand, let alone treat the puncture effectively. If I could, I would do it myself.
Saber gave me a curious look before releasing her hold on the cloth. I began wiping the blood away.
"In your opinion, do you believe you could kill Berserker?" I gestured toward the towel.
"Perhaps," She handed me the towel, and I began drying my leg. "His strength is incredible. Even in his maddened state, the skills he possessed in life shine through, furthering the danger he presents. I could barely leave a mark on him."
"You believe you'll have to use your noble phantasm?" I wrapped the reddened cloth in the towel, setting both next to the small pile of bandages.
She nodded as she opened the kit, taking out the bandage roll.
"Even then, I'm unsure if it will be enough," I took the roll from her outstretched hand and began wrapping it around my leg.
"Seems our best option is to kill his master then," I tore the end and exchanged the roll for a piece of tape. "All you'll need to do is outlast him till he dissipates. With how much mana a servant of that power must burn through, it shouldn't take long."
Einzbern invaded my thoughts, her small, childlike smile daring me to make good on my plan. I pushed it aside. A magus powerful enough to control Berserker knew what they were doing joining the war. I couldn't afford to falter.
"If that is your decision, Master."
The way she said that, it was clear she didn't fully agree with my decision. I suppose a knight would rather defeat or be defeated on their own merits.
Saber put the towel on the kit and left the room with both in hand, giving me a chance to change. I put on a simple white shirt and loose black pants. I folded up the bloody garment and hung it on my arm before exiting the room.
I headed down the stairs and to the washing room, placing the pants on the machine for later. I frowned as I noticed a pile of clothes beside the machine, resisting the urge to throw them into the washer. I stood motionless as I told myself it wasn't my problem. Eventually, I admitted I would be doing them tomorrow after school.
I arrived in the sitting room to find Rin waiting for me, already seated on the sofa. I took the seat opposite her and settled down into it.
"So, care to tell me why you're moving in?"
Rin crossed her arms as if to say that, if I didn't give a good reason, she'd kick me out right now. While I didn't think she would, I still had my backup plan. In the third war, the Edelfelt sisters had set up two safe houses. One near the church, which Father took as our residence, and the other close to the Tohsaka and Matou. As far as I was aware, the other hadn't been claimed since then. It would be an excellent backup, especially since I doubted anyone would consider investigating it.
"I want to be closer to where it seems the majority of the battles will take place. I've already seen all seven servants here, so it's likely they'll return."
"All of them?" Rin tilted her head slightly. "I knew Caster had to be nearby, but I'm surprised both Rider and Berserker are here as well. Why wouldn't any masters hide in Shinto?"
So, she knew about Caster. The next question should be, "How much does she know?"
"Did Caster attack you as well?"
An exaggeration, but not untrue.
"Archer and I found several people drained of their life force. The flow of mana led off into the mountains. The only place a Caster would hide there is Ryuudo Temple."
Different paths to the same conclusion.
"Wait a minute," Rin's eyes widened. "Caster attacked you?"
I relayed the events leading up to Rider injuring me once again. By then, Saber had joined us, remaining standing behind me. Perhaps she was wary of Rin taking advantage of my injury to strike despite what I had said earlier.
"Caster and Assassin working together," Rin's hand moved to her chin. "As well as Rider waiting for her chance to kill you. The only one left is Berserker. Where did you see him?"
Now we were getting into dangerous territory.
"Berserker attacked us after we left the temple. I was able to convince his master to let us go while Saber kept him busy."
"And how did you manage that?"
"I held a blade to her throat. People tend to be more receptive with one meter of steel pressed to their neck."
"Why didn't you just kill her?"
That was a more direct question than I expected.
"Berserker would have gone on a rampage. I'm not foolish enough to think I wouldn't get caught up in it. Until I think of a way that won't get me killed, I'm fine retreating."
I noticed Rin's eyes flick to look behind me. Saber must have reacted to my words. I told her the deal I made on our way back, so she was probably wondering why I wasn't telling Rin.
"And that was enough for her?"
"She decided letting me hunt down Rider for her was a good trade. I was hoping you could help me with that."
Got to move her off topic before she pries further.
"Why would I do that? Even if you're staying here, you're as much my enemy as Berserker's master."
"Because," I leaned forward. "I think Rider's doing something at the school."
Her eyes narrowed slightly. She knew what I was getting at.
"I expect a magus of your caliber felt the magical disturbance at the school and, if so, found the magical circles causing it. Caster would likely be more subtle than that, so unless Lancer is responsible, which I sincerely doubt, Rider is the only option."
Rin cared too much to let innocent people become involved in this war. On the other side, I assumed whatever Rider was planning would give her more power, something I would not allow.
"It benefits us both to work together to stop her. Isn't that reason enough?"
"It would be," she crossed her arms. "But I can't help but feel your hiding something."
"Nothing important."
I stared into her eyes, daring her to press further. We both knew who paid more attention during Father's lessons on deception.
"If I help you, you have to tell me what your hiding afterward."
Her tone left no room for argument.
"I can agree to that," I gave her a shrug.
I glanced over her shoulder at the grandfather clock which read 9:22. Earlier than last night, but last night wasn't a school night.
"Bearing that in mind," I rose from my chair. "I believe we'll be going to bed."
"So early?" Rin tilted her head. "And here I thought you'd keep me company a little while longer."
"I've had a rather exciting night, and I'm ready to put it behind me. Unless, of course, you want me to stay."
She may or may not have wanted that, but she wasn't going to admit it now. Put on the spot like that, she wouldn't…
"And if I said yes," she gave me a smile. "What would you do?"
…call my bluff. The playful glint in her eyes and the slightly wider smile told me my mask had slipped. She knew she had trapped me. She may have payed more attention than I thought.
"Saber," I sat once more. "You go on ahead."
Even if I was stuck here for the moment, Saber likely used up a sizeable amount of mana during tonight's fights. She should rest as soon as possible to regain her energy.
Saber watched me for a moment before nodding. I saw her throw a look at Rin as she exited the room.
"Your servant doesn't fully trust me," she crossed her legs, a smile still playing on her lips. "She may be smarter than you."
"It seems we both drew excellent servants," I gave her a smile in turn.
She nodded and patted the empty space next to her. I raised my eyebrow but moved to sit in the indicated spot. The moment I settled into it, Rin lay on her back, resting her head on my legs.
"For as long as you stay here," she grinned up at me mischievously. "You will be my butler."
You must be joking. I frowned down at her.
"So, what I would already end up doing," I told her dryly. "But with a title. Please, allow me to contain my joy."
"Think of it as practice for when you lose to me."
"I thought 'servant' meant like Saber or Archer."
"It does," she gave a small laugh. "What do you think Archer does when we're not participating in the war?"
I shook my head and leaned back against the sofa, a comfortable silence falling over us as I stared up at the ceiling. This grail war had made these moments few and far between, even before it began. It was possible Father knew I'd be taking part with how frequent his lessons became, but that still doesn't explain why he had been surprised by my registration. Why had…
"Shirou," Rin called me back from my thoughts. "If you did win the war, what would your wish be?"
My wish? I had forgotten that was the point of the war. One wish on the Holy Grail, granting anything the winner desired.
"I honestly haven't given it any thought," I looked down at her questioning face. "I didn't even intend to join the war."
My only real motivation to fight was to defeat Rin. It was the only thing that seemed to matter in this war. Everything else was just a step toward that goal.
"I know that," she waved my words aside. "But I assumed you'd have given it some thought."
"And what about you?" I countered. "If you win the grail, what will your wish be?"
She looked off to the side. I guessed she either hadn't thought about it, or it was something private.
"I want," she still didn't look at me. "To undo a mistake."
A mistake? One that would require an omnipotent wish granting artifact? I thought about that for a moment. The only thing I could think of was…
My eyes softened. Even if I won, I didn't need the wish. There was nothing I… No, there was something I wanted, but the grail couldn't give it to me.
"Well," Rin sat up and rose from the sofa. "That's enough for tonight."
She moved over to and opened the door, looking back at me as she did.
"Tomorrow, meet me on the roof after school. We'll figure what to do about Rider then."
With that, I was alone again, leaving myself with only questions. How could I have summoned Saber? Were the Einzberns involved, or was it some infinitesimally small coincidence? Who was Rider's master that they'd have enough of a vendetta to attack me twice? Why were Caster and Assassin's master working together?
One night, and I was already hurled straight into darkness, my only certainties being Saber and Rin. I had accepted that would be the case when I decided I would fight in the war, but I hadn't thought I'd be confronted so quickly with that affirmation.
Father would've called that foolishness.
I stood myself up. It didn't matter if I didn't immediately have the answers. So long as I continued forward and watched with eyes wide open, I would see the end of all this. And that meant getting sleep so I could face the next day with clarity.
I would win this war.