A/N: Thank you to everyone who reviewed the chapter and those who left favorites and follows, I am very grateful.
And a special thanks to Greatratking88 for his work on this chapter, especially the editing and restructure.
I actually had this chapter completed a week ago, I am only posting it because I wanted to finish chapter three and send it off for editing before posting since it might be some time before I get it. Maybe by the end of this coming week at the earliest.
Now there are some things to cover in this chapter, and part of the reason I introduced the characters I did in this chapter was because at the time I was mulling over if anyone should be around after events of Fate/Grand Order's prelude. Still, I felt introducing them was worthwhile given the future roles of some of these characters met in this chapter.
The rest I'll save for the end of the chapter to avoid spoilers, but know there was one other thing I had to mull over. That being said I do want to thank both Greatratking88 and Seerking for helping me the last thing in question.
Chapter 2
Welcome to Chaldea
Days later, Lelouch arrived at the Chaldea Security Organization's headquarters nestled in the snowy tundra of Antarctica. Here they were, six thousand meters above the sea level.
I am thankful I don't have to be outside in that.
Lelouch observed the white landscape. Thick clouds covered the skies, accompanied by a light snowfall.
"We're here," Sion announced happily.
As they passed over the last mountain, the headquarters of the Chaldean Security Organization came into view. Nested among the mountains was an enormous U-shaped building, made with white metallic plating with smaller structures and facilities attached to the main building surrounding it.
The helipad was inside a hangar, whose roof closed over them after the helicopter had landed. Once the outside of it had been warmed up sufficiently thanks to its heaters, Lelouch, Sion and Romani disembarked the helicopter with luggage in hand.
"I heard the stories and saw the photos. Chaldea is something else when you're actually visiting it," Lelouch commented.
"What can I say? Marisbury spent an astronomical amount of money and resources to build all of this," Romani offered modestly.
"I believe it," Lelouch replied.
"Don't forget Atlas helped too," Sion chimed in. "In fact, you'll get to see one of my inventions here."
Waiting for the trio near the exit to the hangar was a man seemingly in his late thirties or older, wearing a green suit with a black furred collar and long plume of hair. His skin was fair, his eyes seemed closed, and he wore a green top hat, and black pants with matching boots.
"Welcome back, Romani. I see you brought your young charge with you this time."
"I wasn't expecting you to greet me," Romani answered with a friendly smile. "Lelouch, this is my former classmate and second in command of Chaldea, Professor Lev Lainur."
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Lelouch Lamperouge," Lev said, offering his hand.
"The pleasure is all mine," Lelouch said, before shaking his hand.
"And who might you be?" Lev inquired, turning his attention to Sion.
"I am Sion Eltnam Sokaris of the Atlas Institute," Sion answered.
"Atlas? That is certainly surprising. I didn't expect you would arrive with the daughter of the headmaster of Atlas," said Lev.
"Marisbury requested that she be allowed to supervise Lelouch's training," Romani answered.
"Why would my father do that?"
All eyes turned to the new voice, as its source approached the gathering. She was a young woman, either in her late teens or early twenties, with long white hair, gold eyes, and a pale skin complexion. Her attire consisted of a black coat with orange trim, a red tie, a white skirt, red leggings and black high heels.
"Those were his wishes, Director Animusphere," Sion replied professionally, adjusting her glasses.
"Director Animusphere," Lelouch said as the young woman joined their group.
"Yes, allow me to introduce the current director of Chaldea," Lev began. "This is Director Olga Marie Animusphere, the daughter of the previous director who succeeded him following his… passing."
Lelouch had heard about Marisbury Animusphere's demise three years ago. Chaldea's founder had been discovered dead in his office, apparently having shot himself, so his death had been ruled a suicide. The reason why Marisbury would kill himself had never been known, a mystery that would likely never be solved.
I wonder if it really was a suicide.
Romani had never voiced any suspicions, yet Lelouch had his own. The problem was that Lelouch lacked the information to really speculate on what had happened. As it was, it was a reminder that he had to be on his guard.
"I heard Lelouch would be coming, but I didn't know about a member of Atlas would be accompanying you." Olga said. seeming just as surprised as Lev.
"Your father did have one of the seven contracts. As you know, Atlas must render aid to fulfill it," Sion explained.
As a golden rule at Atlas, if a mage presented one of seven unique contracts, then the Atlas Institute would render whatever assistance the possessor asked without question. Lelouch had never seen one, but he knew from Sion only seven of these contracts existed. As far as Sion knew, only four of the seven contacts had been collected by Atlas. Sion had been vague on any further details.
"I see. So beyond helping Lelouch, did my father instruct you on anything else?"
"As a matter of fact, yes," Sion replied with a big smile before holding up a silver briefcase. "One of your father's wishes was for Lelouch to summon his own servant upon arrival in Chaldea, using the catalyst contained here, and the summoning circle illustration within this case."
"Huh," Lelouch and Olga said in unison.
"That is rather sudden. He just barely got here," Lev remarked.
"Exactly. He just got here," Olga added, regaining her composure.
"It is your father's wish for Lelouch to summon a heroic spirit. He just had that much confidence in his potential," Sion replied.
"No one has been able to summon a Heroic Spirit since our last success a couple years ago. We haven't managed anything like it since." said Olga.
"Has there been a problem with the summoning system?" Sion inquired, one hand on her hip.
"Not as far as we can tell, which has been the problem," Olga replied with a sigh.
"So you think the problem is he won't be able to summon a servant?" Sion asked.
Before Olga could argue the matter more, Lev raised a hand.
"Correct me if I am wrong, director, but didn't our head of research want to test the FATE system today?"
"Yes, she did," Olga answered. Slowly, realization seemed to dawn on her. "Wait, are you actually thinking of allowing this?"
"I am." Said Lev. "What's the harm? A live attempt to summon a heroic spirit could be useful for the research department to get the system working properly in time for Chaldea's first mission."
Olga contemplated this for a second.
"I suppose you are right. I am doubtful it will work anyway, but alright, I'll allow it."
"Great. Why don't I get it ready then?" Sion said, practically beaming.
"Should I take Sion to see her then?" Romani offered.
"Of course, Romani. I will take the opportunity to give Mr. Lamperouge a tour of our headquarters," Lev said, gesturing for Lelouch to follow him. "We'll stop by your room so you can drop off your luggage."
"By all means, lead the way," Lelouch said following the older man.
As they passed through Chaldea's maze of corridors, Lev began to instruct Lelouch on some need-to-know details about the facility.
"Beyond what you saw on the surface, Chaldea is actually much larger below ground, but for now the areas you should be concerned with are located in this wing of the facility. Let us begin with the living quarters," Lev said, as the pair arrived at metallic sliding door.
"So this is my living space, then?"
Lev nodded. "Yes. Go ahead and use the keycard Roman gave you."
After the door opened Lelouch flipped the light switch, illumining the room. His quarters had plenty of room for a bed in the corner, and a monitor built into the wall near it. There was a wall near his bed, some book shelves, and a pair of transparent doors leading into a bathroom area complete with a shower. Next to the bed itself was a small table.
Leaving his luggage by the bed to tend to later, Lelouch exited the room after briefly taking a moment to explore his new living quarters.
"I trust the accommodations are acceptable?" Lev said jokingly.
"They'll do," Lelouch replied.
"Good. Now I'll show you a few facilities near the living quarters you should be aware of."
Minutes later Lev led Lelouch to Chaldea's cafeteria, which was large enough to seat at least a hundred people, round tables taking up most of the room.
"Naturally we have a fully equipped cafeteria where we have sufficient stock to supply you and the other master with a wide range of different meals, snacks and deserts for months," Lev explained as the pair passed through.
"As I understand, it besides me there are supposed to be a total of forty-eight masters here at Chaldea?" said Lelouch.
"Yes. Given the importance of your work as a Master and your Heroic Spirit, Chaldea has taken every step to ensure all of your needs are taken care of."
Exiting the cafeteria, the pair eventually made their way to medical wing of the facility.
"Now this is the area of Chaldea under the supervision of your foster father. Our medical facilities possess the latest technology in the fields of medicine, while we also have access to some more mystical methods as well. So if one method fails, we have plenty of alternatives to ensure your health and well-being will always be looked out for," Lev explained as he showed Lelouch the inside of the medical wing.
Having accompanied his sister to the hospital for her checkups and physical examinations due to her disabilities, Lelouch had seen his fair share of hospitals. He may not have recognized any of the equipment the members of Chaldea's medical staff were using, but even at a glance Lelouch could tell their equipment was state of the art.
"Very impressive," Lelouch said appreciatively.
"Thank you," Lev replied. Lelouch shot a glance over his shoulder, noticing that Olga had been following them in silence. He was careful to avoid drawing her attention, and soon Lev directed them towards another area of Chaldea.
"Now, why don't we show you the workshop of our Research Department head, and then I can show you the simulators," Lev said gesturing for Lelouch to follow him once more.
Using an elevator Olga, Lelouch and Lev descended into the lower levels of Chaldea, and after passing through the corridors they arrived at their destination.
However, upon entry what Lelouch saw was almost the exact opposite of what he had seen of Chaldea so far.
This place looks like something out of old workshop you would see in those old movies taking place during the Renaissance.
As Lelouch's eyes scanned the room, which besides the old fashion style of the workshop he found old models of flying machines hanging from the walls. In the corner of the workshop Lelouch found everything you would need for not only creating sculptures, but to paint portraits as well.
"I guess she isn't here," Lev commented.
"She must be with the girl from Atlas still," Olga added.
"Probably," Lev concluded, but before he decided to move the tour on the door opened behind them.
"Oh, I have visitors?"
Entering the workshop was a woman looking to be in her early twenties, with shoulder-length brown hair and blue eyes, with a fair skin complexion. However, unlike those Lelouch had seen in Chaldea, her outfit was very different. She wore a short red and blue dress with yellow stars upon it. Her right arm was covered in a long blue glove, but the other was mechanical, or so it seemed at a glance. She was holding a staff with a star-shaped blue crystal within a ring on top.
Lastly, sitting upon her right shoulder was a mechanical bird with gold scales and blue trim, and a red and blue cape draped upon her shoulders.
"Ah I see. You are giving that one a tour, aren't you Lev?" The woman asked as her gaze fell upon Lelouch.
"And you are?" Lelouch asked.
"Hello. I am Leonardo Da Vinci, the Universal Genius and a Caster-class Heroic Spirit," Leonardo said, greeting Lelouch while standing near him. She offered him her mechanical left hand to shake.
"Leonardo Da Vinci," Lelouch said before reaching out to confusedly shake her hand.
Leonardo noticed his puzzled expression, which only caused her to laugh.
"Everyone who meets me for the first time always has that look, because they can't help but wonder why I am a woman instead of a man," Leonardo said, having another laugh. "I was indeed a handsome man when I was alive, but I spent my life pursuing the ultimate expression of beauty, which became the Mona Lisa. As a servant I chose to manifest as that Ultimate Beauty, so hence the Lady Da Vinci before you."
"What's with the arm?" Lelouch asked.
"Oh that, don't worry, it's just a mechanical glove I wear. After being summoned, I modified my appearance, because true genius transcends common understandings of appearance, gender, and age!"
I don't know if I should consider her arrogant, or just really confident in herself.
"That's quite the level of modification," Lelouch said, eyeing both the arm and the bird on her shoulder. "Can all Heroic Spirits do that?"
"It depends on their class and abilities, but generally, all Heroic Spirits can influence their manifestation to some degree," Leonardo said before elaborating further. "When a Heroic Spirit is summoned, they can determine what age they appear as. Either they can appear at the age they achieved their achievements that allowed them onto the Throne of Heroes, but for those who were quite old at that time, a Heroic Spirit can modify their age to appear in their physical prime or younger if they choose."
"I see. It does make sense when a Heroic Spirit is summoned, they would likely want to manifest in a form that is more capable than an aged one that could be a liability."
"There are a rare few who can become the living embodiments of their contributions to society, so scientists who became Heroic Spirits will have more combat potential reflected by how much their contributions dramatically changed the world," Leonardo added.
"I see. So you were one of the three Heroic Spirits Chaldea summoned?" said Lelouch.
"That's right. I was the third summoned and last successful summon, but that was a long time ago."
"Miss Leonardo is also the head of our Technical and Research Department," Lev pointed out.
"Naturally," Leonardo confirmed with a wink. "And your name was?"
"Lelouch Lamperouge."
"Oh," Leonardo said as realization dawned on her. "You must be the boy Roman has been taking care of. He has told me about you. It's a pleasure to finally meet you."
"Sounds like I have been a popular subject," Lelouch mused.
"Yes, he speaks of how proud he has been of you," Leonardo commented before adding. "But he did wish you would focus on school more than sneaking off to take part in underground chess matches."
Did you really have to mention that last part? Lelouch could even feel Olga glaring at him.
"Anyway, its good I caught you here," Leonardo said, quickly changing the subject. "Your friend, the alchemist from Atlas, has just finished preparing everything for your summoning."
"I see," Lev said contemplatively. "Very well. Let us postpone the rest of the tour for now, and head for the FATE chamber."
"The FATE chamber?" Lelouch inquired.
"I'll explain when we get there," Lev answered.
Lelouch followed Lev, Olga and Leonardo to another room in the complex. Upon entering, he saw that the room was circular in shape, large enough for at least fifty people. However, what drew Lelouch's attention was the glowing lines engraved upon the walls surrounding the room. And the summoning circle freshly drawn by Sion, who had been waiting for them.
"Whew, I am glad you are here; this circle took a while to draw according to the illustration Marisbury had left," Sion said, picking up her supplies and tools.
"It looks like you got quite busy," Lelouch remarked as he inspected the circle. "Anyway, why is this room called the FATE chamber?"
"This room has been made specifically for summoning Heroic Spirits, and this is where I was summoned," Leonardo explained. "This is the Guardian Heroic Spirit Summoning System codenamed FATE. The FATE system is based on the summoning rituals of the Fuyuki Holy Grail Wars held back in Japan, years before Britannia invaded."
"I see," Lelouch said before noticing an object in the center of the summoning circle. "I assume that is the catalyst I am supposed to use?"
"That's right, one Marisbury picked out personally," Sion explained.
"And what are my chances of success?"
"Ninety-four percent actually," Sion replied while adjusting her glasses.
"How can that be? We haven't successfully summoned a heroic spirit in five years," Olga pointed out.
"Director Olga, could I ask that you do not question my calculations," Sion said, an intimidating shine reflecting from her glasses. "I am positive beyond all doubt Lelouch will succeed with this ritual. Are you ready to begin, Lelouch?"
"I am," Lelouch replied.
"Professor Lev, I think you should take a few steps back?" Sion cautioned while noticing how Lev seemed intent on studying the summoning circle.
"Oh right, of course," Lev commented before stepping away.
Sion handed Lelouch a slip of paper with the chant written upon it.
"Here I go," Lelouch said taking a moment to read the chant. Although he had performed the ritual before, he read the chant to refresh himself.
Taking a deep breath Lelouch extended his hand before he began.
"Let silver and steel be the essence," Lelouch said as he relaxed his breathing, "Let stone and the archduke of contracts be the foundation. Let ascend a wall against the wind that shall collapse!"
Magical power began flowing into the room as the lines on the wall began glowing, soon followed by the circle on the floor.
"Let the four cardinal gates close," Lelouch said as more magical energy began surging, "Let the three-forked road from the crown reaching unto the Kingdom rotate."
The energy accumulating within the circle grew in intensity as an indoor wind began to blow around the room. Olga, Lev, Leonardo and Sion raised their arms to shield their eyes from the dust flowing around the room. Lelouch stood firm and closed his eyes to shield them, but he remained focused on the task before him.
"Let it be declared now," Lelouch shouted over the roaring energies, "your flesh shall serve under me, and my fate shall be with your sword!"
The room was gradually becoming brighter due to the intense magical energy with more dust and dirt now being thrown up into the air, but Lelouch was almost finished.
"I bid thee, accept my beckoning as a defender of humanity's future hero of the past," Lelouch cried, "Answer if you would submit to this will and this truth."
More energy began to surge through the circle, and the force nearly shoved Lelouch back, but the former prince managed to keep his balance steady.
"An oath shall be sworn here," he shouted, nearly finished with the incantation," I shall achieve all virtues of all of Heaven; I shall have dominance over all evils of all of Hell!"
Nearly done now. With resolve, Lelouch started to finish the chant.
"From the Seventh Heaven, attended to by three great words of power!"
Unseen by Lelouch, three red marks began appearing on top of his right hand as he spoke the last words.
"Come forth from the ring of restraint," Lelouch said, before with thundering finale he spoke the final line of the spell, "protector of the holy balance!"
Just like before, an explosion of magic power coursed through the room, but unlike before Lelouch wasn't blown back. And this time, something stood at the center of the circle. It took a few moments for Lelouch to wipe his eyes before he could open them. Instantly, he noticed three red glowing marks upon the top of his right hand.
Everyone else was trying to wave away the white smoke that filled the room, even as Leonardo activated the fans to clear the room.
A laugh echoed throughout the room as Lelouch saw the figure standing in the heart of the summoning circle.
"So you must be my master."
Lelouch and all eyes turned to the imposing figure standing in the center of where the summoning circle was. He was dressed in a combination of light silver scale mail, with plate armor covering his shoulders, chest, and forearms. A flowing cloak hung over his shoulders. He had hardened features with a long beard and equally long mustache upon his face. On his back was a round metal shield. The warrior also carried a curved sword at his side, and a lance on his back as well.
"Who are you?" Lelouch asked.
"Me?" The armored warrior asked. His expression was severe. His skin was dark in hue, and he looked not old but weathered, like a seasoned warrior.
"I have ruled the steppes, scattered armies, slaughtered thousands, laid waste to empires and taken for myself every kingdom I laid my eyes on. I was feared by my enemies and loved by my people, and emperors bowed to me. Yet despite all of this, it seems I have now become… a servant."
The warrior chuckled, shaking his head.
"I am the Saber-class servant Genghis Khan, the king of conquerors."
Lelouch flinched. Genghis Khan? The man that had ruled all land from China and Korea in the east, to the shores of the Baltic sea in the west? The one that had toppled every civilization that opposed him and ruthlessly crushed his enemies with superior tactics? The man whose brutality echoed through history?
He's bound to have such fascinating stories.
Olga and Lev were stunned at having witnessed an unexpected successful summon, but Sion confidently adjusted her glasses.
"Never doubt my calculations."
That is quite a jump from a low to a suddenly high success rate.
"I am Lelouch Lamperouge, the summoner who has called you." Lelouch said showing the command seals upon his hand.
"You look a little skinny, but to have summoned me you must be talented. Or maybe we are alike," the Khan said with a grin.
"He actually did it," Lev said, still reeling from the unexpected success.
"You both, come with me right now," Olga commanded.
"Why?" Lelouch asked.
"Just follow me!" Olga snapped impatiently.
Lelouch's newly summoned servant glanced at his master, who merely shrugged his shoulders before gesturing to follow him.
"You do realize what you have done here?" Olga questioned as she led Lelouch and his new servant down the hall.
"I just summoned a servant in Chaldea for the first time in five years," Lelouch answered.
"Yes, and that has just elevated you from a master-in-training to a full-fledged master," Olga replied as the trio reached what appeared to be a meeting room with a large round table and chairs for twelve people.
"All because I successfully summoned a servant?"
"That's right. I am going to have you meet the team of other talented individuals my father scouted personally, since you'll be working with them. Each of them is the finest Chaldea has as master candidates," Olga explained, gesturing for Lelouch to sit. "You will wait here while I summon your new co-workers."
Without another word, Olga left Lelouch alone with his new servant.
"It would seem my summoning has elevated you quite highly." Said the Khan amusedly.
"Indeed. Although after all of my past attempts at summoning a Heroic Spirit this is the first time it succeeded. I do admit I didn't expect it," Lelouch acknowledged while reclining in the chair.
"Heh, worry not, my master. I'll show them you have summoned the best possible choice for a servant," the Khan replied with obvious pride in his voice.
"Given your exploits in history I have no doubt I have," Lelouch remarked before he felt something near his feet. "Huh?"
Leaping up onto the table in front of him was a small animal. Lelouch watched the creature leap onto his left shoulder. It was small enough to easily sit upon his shoulder, having white fur and looking like some kind of dog, yet it seemed too different to be an actual canine. It had a lot of fluffy white fur around its tail, chest, and head, wearing what appeared to be a white cape with a red bow. It had purple eyes.
"What kind of creature are you?" Lelouch asked, knowing he wouldn't get an answer.
"I have never seen a creature like it before," the Khan answered, bending over to inspect the creature. "He seems harmless."
"Fou," the creature said, as it snuggled up against Lelouch's chin in a friendly gesture.
At that moment, the door opened. Standing outside was a young woman with lilac hair in a pageboy hairstyle, lavender eyes and a slightly pale complexion. Her attire consisted rectangular framed glasses, a grey hoodie over a black shirt, a red tie, a black skirt and matching tights, and brown shoes.
"There you are, Fou," the girl said upon spotting the creature on Lelouch's shoulder.
"Fou?" Lelouch said curiously, before turning to the creature.
"Fou," Fou replied.
"Uh, who are you?" The girl asked timidly approaching Lelouch.
"My name is Lelouch Lamperouge. And you are?"
"Oh," the girl said as realization dawned on you. "you're the one the doctor said he adopted. He said he was going to introduce us."
"So that must make you Mash Kyrielight. I guess the doctor has been taking care of us both," Lelouch replied with thin smile.
Internally, Lelouch cursed himself for not recognizing Mash earlier, but with everything happening around him so quickly he must have overlooked it. Lelouch recalled how Romani shared photos of Mash, but regretted many times he couldn't bring Mash to visit Japan, her being unable to leave Chaldea. According to Roman, Mash was a Designer Baby created in Chaldea under Marisbury's supervision. Roman didn't share much else, including the reason for her creation. Furthermore, Lelouch didn't quite understand why she couldn't leave Chaldea, something else Romani had failed to fill him in on, making him wonder if Romani didn't know or if it was something else.
"Hello," Mash offered politely before sitting down next to Lelouch on his left.
At that moment Fou hopped off Lelouch's shoulder and onto Mash's shoulder.
"If you don't mind me asking, what kind of animal is Fou?"
Mash seemed confused, and tried to come up with an answer before shaking her head.
"To be honest, I thought Fou was a chipmunk, but I guess that isn't right either."
"So no one knows what he or she is?"
"Fou is defiantly a he, that much I can confirm. No one seems to know where Fou comes from either, but everyone just seems content to let him wander Chaldea. Some have called him Chaldea's mascot."
"I see," Lelouch said, uncertain how to respond.
Before Mash and Lelouch could continue their conversation, the door opened as another person entered the meeting room.
She was a young woman, older than Mash. She had a more mature appearance. which only made determining her age more difficult. Regardless, the fair-skinned girl had long, light brown hair and blue eyes, her right eye covered by an eyepatch made up of a piece of metal and leather bands. Her attire consisted of a black coat with a white dress shirt and a black tie in the shape of a butterfly. She also wore a black skirt and stockings.
"I guess I wasn't the first to arrive," the girl said in a professional manner before noticing Mash. "Hello, Mash. I am glad to see you here."
However, it didn't take long for the girl to notice the figure standing guard behind Lelouch.
"Wait, are you a Heroic Spirit?" The girl asked her eyes going wide with surprise.
"I am," the Khan replied. The girl to hurried over, fascinatedly inspecting him.
"Incredible. It's been five years since they managed this..."
"Excuse me miss, but I must respectfully ask you don't treat my servant like some specimen in a cage or something," Lelouch said politely.
"Oh, I am terribly sorry," the girl said apologetically. "I should've realized I was being rude. I was simply excited to see a Heroic Spirit for the first time, in a while, and it also means that maybe I can finally summon one myself."
"I see. Miss…?"
"Right, where are my manners? My name is Ophelia Phamrsolone. Formerly of the Clock Tower's Spiritual Evocation, I am pleased to make your acquaintance, Mr…"
"Lelouch Lamperouge."
"I haven't seen you around Chaldea, so you must be new. Still, it's impressive to have summoned a Heroic Spirit," she said appreciatively.
"Thank you. Although, I wasn't expecting to summon a Heroic Spirit within the first few hours after my arrival."
"Really?" Ophelia asked curiously.
Before Lelouch explain, they were interrupted by the door opening again. This time, two men arrived, one of them around Lelouch's age and the other at least in his early or late twenties.
"Come on Pepe, you don't have to drag me halfway across Chaldea," the younger of the two snapped, clearly annoyed.
The young man in question had silver hair, orange eyes and a fair skin complexion. He wore a black shirt with gray pants and a matching coat.
"Now don't be like that. You need to lighten up a little."
Pepe's appearance matched his personality. He had a pale complexion with light blue eyes, pink hair uniquely styled. His attire consisted of a black and grey form fitting top, white pants, matching shoes and black gloves.
"Well looks like some new faces I see," Pepe remarked.
"Hey Pepe isn't that a Heroic Spirit, because there is no way someone dressed and armed to the teeth like that would be able to walk around Chaldea." The young man said looking at Genghis Khan.
"He is one, and this one summoned him his name is Lelouch Lamperouge," Ophelia said pointing to Lelouch.
Pepe quickly approached Lelouch before shaking his hand with a bright smile.
"Really now," Pepe began as he vigorously shook Lelouch's hand. "Welcome to Chaldea. My name is Scandinavia Peperoncino, but my friends call me Pepe."
Is that even a real name?
"And my friend here is Kadoc Zemlupus," Pepe said, pointing to the annoyed young man in his company.
Kadoc sighed before waving his hand, "Uh, hi."
"Hello," Lelouch said, at a complete loss.
Thankfully, Lelouch was given more time to process the situation unfolding as another one entered the room.
She was a young woman, maybe around Lelouch or Ophelia's age, yet her youthful appearance made determining her age difficult. Her long black was tied into a pair of pigtails that nearly reached the floor, her skin was fair, and she had gray eyes and black framed glasses. Her outfit consisted of a long, loose white coat over a black long-sleeved turtleneck sweater, and black boots.
"Hey Hinako, we got ourselves a new master who summoned a servant," Pepe announced.
"Oh," Hinako said looking up from the paperback book she buried her face in before waving with one hand. "Hello."
She must be the quiet one of the group?
Lelouch's thoughts were interrupted once more by Pepe.
"That one is Hinako Akuta, formerly of the Clock Tower's Botany Department before she joined Chaldea as a technician. Afterwards she was scouted by Marisbury and became a master."
"I see," said Lelouch, "so is anyone else coming?"
As if on cue, the door opened again, and this time Olga returned with yet another person. He seemed to be around her age or older, but there was a more dignified presence to him. The young man was dressed in a white suit with blue trim, and a white shoulder cape with matching gloves and shoes. He had long blonde hair, blue eyes and a fair skin tone.
"So he is the new arrival, the one your father mentioned to me," the young man commented, approaching Lelouch.
Feeling he should stand, Lelouch rose from his chair to meet the visitor, who offered his hand.
"Lelouch Lamperouge, I presume? I am Kirschtaria Wodime, the leader of Team A," he said politely.
Lelouch accepted his hand and shook it in return.
"I guess this means Marisbury told you about me?"
"A little. He said he was hoping you would be a trump card, given your potential," Kirschtaria said, noticing Genghis. "It would seem he was right about you."
"What more did he tell you?" Lelouch asked, out of both curiosity and concern.
No-one among those in Chaldea besides Romani and I should know my true identity.
"Not much, other than your potential to be a capable mage and a highly qualified master with a very impressive Rayshifting Compatibility," Kirschtaria said.
The young prince felt relieved that his secret had not been betrayed, but the amount of attention he was receiving made him uneasy.
"Anyway," Kirschtaria began, noticing two more had just arrived. "Let me introduce the last members of A-Team."
"Now that fellow is Beryl Gut," Kirschtaria said, gesturing to the man in question. He was a man in his late twenties with sharp features, including black hair, glasses, dark brown eyes and a fair skin complexion. His attire consisted of a black dress shirt, gloves, red pants, and black shoes. Beryl merely nodded as a greeting.
"Last and not certainly least is Daybit Sem Void, formerly of the Clock Tower's Anthropology Faculty."
Daybit appeared to be in his late twenties with a tanned complexion, with dirty blonde hair and purple eyes. He wore black boots, a leather trench coat, a black undershirt and black tie with a white striped sweater.
Anthropology Faculty… wait, I remember Romani talking about it once. It's the Folklore Department that deals with relics not of this world.
"Now that you are all here, I have an announcement to make," Olga began before turning her gaze to Lelouch. "Because Lelouch Lamperouge has succeeded in summoning his first servant, he will be assigned to A Team with the rest of you."
"What?!" Kadoc exclaimed.
"So, the newbie is joining us then?" Beryl said, "What kind of servant is he bringing to the group?"
"Genghis Khan," Olga said bluntly.
"Genghis Khan… the Genghis Khan? Conqueror of China? The one who piled up skulls for trophies?"
"Actually," said the Khan amusedly, "I don't recall doing that. We usually stuck to lobbing decapitated heads into besieged cities. It worked wonders for enemy morale."
The group looked a little taken aback, unsure how to react.
"…yes, quite," Olga said awkwardly.
"Good choice," Beryl replied with a grin.
"We got ourselves a real heavy hitter, then," Kadoc commented.
"Yes. So between now and the mission in a few days Lelouch will be spending time in the simulator, becoming more accustomed to his servant. He'll defend us while we summon our servants when we arrive in the singularity as per the original mission plan," Kirschtaria said.
"I guess welcome to the team then, Lelouch," Pepe said cheerily.
I guess this means I have become some kind of overnight celebrity.
Lelouch could only sigh internally since he was hoping to keep a low profile, but that had clearly gone out the window.
"How about joining us for dinner tonight in the cafeteria," Pepe offered.
I think I am in for a long night.
Hours later, after a long evening in the cafeteria spent with Pepe, Ophelia, a reluctant Kadoc, and an even more reluctant Hinako and Mash, Lelouch felt exhausted. The rest of his teammates were involved at some point, but the evening had passed in a flash.
"Master, I feel I should suggest you should work on your stamina for such celebrations," Genghis suggested, walking beside Lelouch.
"I'll keep that in mind, but I wasn't expecting that," Lelouch admitted while the annoyance of the attention upon him lingered. "I apologize if this hasn't left you with a good impression of me as your master."
The Mongolian shrugged.
"It has only been a day. Only a fool goes by first impressions alone."
"That is true."
"There you are," Dr. Romani said, approaching the two. "I guess you had a wild day?"
Lelouch merely glared at him, an expression of annoyance upon his face.
"Wild is an understatement," Lelouch muttered before regaining his composure. "You said this would be a walk in the park. I come to Chaldea, do my part and that would be the end of it."
"Heh, well…" Romani began with a nervous laugh.
"Instead, not only do I end up summoning a servant successfully, something no one has done for the last five years, turning me into a local celebrity," Lelouch said before narrowing his eyes at Romani, "But you said I could've accomplished what I needed without drawing too much attention?"
"Well, it was what Marisbury wanted, and I guess he wasn't wrong about you. I wasn't sure it would work."
"Which is why I always say NEVER doubt my calculations," Sion said walking in on the scene with both hands on her hips.
"Speaking of which, a little warning before we arrived in Chaldea would've been nice, about me performing a summoning ritual right after I arrived," Lelouch chided them both, "You both should know why I need to keep a low profile."
"Maybe, but it's a little late to have this argument now." said Romani.
Lelouch relented, "I suppose. I'll just need to be careful."
"Anyway, I came to ask you if you could swing by Da Vinci's workshop tomorrow, so we can begin fitting you with the new mystic code you'll wear during the mission," Sion said, deciding to change the subject. "Everyone will be wearing one, and yours will be customized for you specifically, so the sooner you come by the sooner we can get it done."
"Very well," Lelouch said.
"On a related matter, since you have seen your room already, your servant has his own room next door to your own, to give them their own space," Romani explained.
"Good to know," Lelouch replied, drawing out his keycard.
After opening the door Lelouch inspected his room, finding it exactly as he had left it.
"Your room looks good," Sion commented.
"I should probably freshen up and go to bed. I'll clearly be busy tomorrow, and likely the next day until the mission," Lelouch said, stretching one of his arms.
"So I have heard," Dr. Romani acknowledged with a sigh.
"Besides that, I almost forgot," Lelouch began before turning to Romani. "I can't help but get the feeling the Director dislikes me. Did Marisbury and Olga have a bad relationship or something?"
Romani contemplated how to best answer that question before saying, "Actually, Marisbury completely neglected her growing up, showing no affection to her."
"Why?"
"I am not completely sure, but I have my suspicions. But this isn't the place to have that kind of discussion, and you should get some sleep. In the meantime, I think you should bring your servant up to speed on a few things about yourself. He's likely wondering why you want to keep a low profile," Romani said.
"I am a bit curious, but I didn't want to interrupt," the Khan said.
"Good point. In the meantime, should I be worried about Olga, then?"
"No, but I would just avoid getting on her nerves as much as you can. I doubt she'll do anything brash, but I think she might be just jealous you summoned a servant."
"Jealous?"
"Like I said, it is a story for another time, and not one we should have out here in the hall at the very least," Romani cautioned again.
Lelouch sighed, but he decided to sweep the matter aside for now. "It seems like a minor issue I can deal with."
"Well, at least consider your poor foster father. She might not do anything to you, but she might make my life hell to vent her frustrations."
"I am beginning to think you are worrying too much."
Romani sighed. "Anyway, Chaldea's first mission is in a few days, so Olga has made sure one of the simulators will be available to you. I'll be asking Mash to join you, because I hoped you two would get along."
"I did manage to speak with her a little, but she seemed very shy."
Romani nodded before correcting Lelouch, "I wouldn't call her shy, but rather socially inexperienced. Up until I became her physician and general caretaker, no-one interacted with her very much. It affected her social skills and growth as a person. Even Pepe and Ophelia have tried to get Mash to open up more."
"With all due respect, I might be good at reading people at times, but I don't know if I am the best one qualified to help her grow as a person."
"I know, and if she was capable of leaving Chaldea, I would've suggested she go out into the world where she could gain more social experience. But we'll have to make do with what we have."
"I see. I'll do what I can, but I can't make any promises."
"That's all I ask," Romani commented. "Anyway, I'll let you unpack and get settled. Good night, Lelouch."
"Good night," Lelouch said as Romani departed the room.
His first day, and he had already summoned a servant and become part of a team. Things certainly were moving fast…
A/N: Well barely at Chaldea for a few hours and Lelouch has become celebrity for unexpectedly summoning his first servant, which earned Lelouch a spot on Team A.
Now that I revealed Lelouch's first servant I can explain somethings I held back in my first author note. This includes the fact I chose Genghis Khan to be Lelouch's servant, and part of the reason I confess I was also hesitant in posting the chapter was some lingering uncertainty in my choice. He is an original servant created between me and Greatratking88 with Seerking reviewing his completed status and Noble Phantasms afterwards to ensure he wouldn't be too much of a Gray Stu or anything of the like.
Greatratking88 is assisting me with his personality and dialogue over the source of the story and yes as I am sure some of you have guessed expect a brawl between him and another King of Conquerors later in the story for the title.
Rest assured Lelouch will gain other servants over the course of the story with Anastasia for certain, and Mordred at a appropriate point with others I have in mind I am deciding on. I am also being mindful to not overburden myself with too many characters either, which we all know is easier said than done in a story like Fate/Grand Order. Others like Jeanne d'Arc and Amakusa Shirou are candidates as well.
As a reminder I will not worry about pairings until later in the story. Likely around the seventh singularity relationships will form among the characters with some like Anastasia, Ishtar or Ereshkigal being considered for Lelouch.
Next chapter we will have events of Singularity F and a few more faces making their appearance for the first time, so with that said thank you for reading and thank you in advance for your reviews.
Class: Saber
True Name: Genghis Khan
Height: 6'2
Weight: Unknown
Gender: Male
Alignment: Neutral Evil
Other Names and Titles: Temüjin Borjigin, Great and Supreme Khan of all the Mongols, Emperor of China
Note: his appearance was based on and inspired by Khotun Khan from Ghost of Tsushima.
Parameters:
Strength: B
Endurance: A+
Agility: C+
Mana: B
Luck: B
Noble Phantasm: A+++
Class Skills:
Magic Resistance: A+
Riding: A
Personal Skills:
Destined for Greatness: A (Genghis Khan was born as the son of a Kiyad chief among three brothers and a sister. When he was born, he grasped a blood clot in his hand, which was a sign he was destined to be a great leader. However, growing up was difficult following the death of his father which led to the tribe abandoning him, his mother and his other siblings. Genghis Khan would spend his early life living off whatever they could seize to survive, and he would even escape captivity after being captured by some of his father enemies. Combines Natural Body, Beast Slayer, Battle Continuation, Robust Health, Eye of the Mind (True), Man-Slayer, Knowledge of Melee Combat, Determination of Steel and Disengage.)
First Mongol Emperor: A+ (Despite a difficult early life Genghis Khan would rise and begin amassing power following an alliance with his father's ally serving him as his vassal. Unwilling to follow Mongol traditions Genghis gathered a growing number of followers by allowing civilians and soldiers to gain wealth from future war spoils. Any tribes he conquered were absorbed and granted protection becoming part of his tribe granting Genghis Khan more loyal supporters. All of these efforts would lead to the formation of a Mongol Empire with Genghis Khan named its first Emperor. Combines Imperial Privilege, Charisma, Military Tactics, Innovation, Knight's Strategy, Presence Detection, Pioneer of the Stars, Golden Rule (Wealth and Body), Unifying the Nation by Force and Strategy.)
Father of the Mongols: B (By the end of his life Genghis Khan had taken the Mongol tribes and combined them into a nation and ultimately into an Empire conquering parts of Central Asia and China. Even after his death his empire would expand further being recognized as one of the greatest conquers in history, but he also practiced meritocracy and encouraged religious tolerance in his new Empire. Many in modern day Mongolia claim they are the children of Genghis Khan, although some have pointed over his brutal methods and systematic slaughters of his enemies even for those who wronged him. Combines Torture Techniques, Subversive Activities, Tactician's Command, and grants increased skill bonuses when fighting in Mongolia.)
Noble Phantasms:
Kunwu: (Rank B+ Anti-Unit or Anti-Team): Genghis Khan wields the legendary sword Kunwu, once owned by Emperor Huangdi of China by Jiutian Xuannü, given to him by the Goddess of War, Sex, and Longevity. What became of the sword was lost to time following Huangdi's reign until a Princess of China, hateful of being given to Genghis Khan as a concubine stole the sword giving it to him to spite her weak father. No one had been unable to use it, but Genghis Khan had met the requirements to wield the blade, even not at its full power. Its effective against gods, demons and can repel evil magic.
Dì guó zhī fù, Father of an Empire; (Rank EX, Anti-Unit or Anti-Army); Having taken many nomad clans of Mongolia and united them under his banner conquering much of the surrounding land around them, Genghis Khan would forge the Mongol Empire which would grow into one of the largest Empires of the time thanks to Genghis Khan's conquests. Because of his accomplishments, and the many children he had sired who even to the modern day there were hundreds who could trace their lineage back to him and how his Empire persisted after his death even if it was spilt among his sons had him hailed as the Father of an Empire. As a Noble Phantasm Genghis Khan can call upon soldiers of the Mongol Horde, although limited to a small group due to the magical energy required to maintain them. However using banners at leylines could increase its usage allowing for more men to be called forth, although they are not as powerful as Heroic Spirits they are still more formidable than your average human soldier. Unfortunately this Noble Phantasm is impartial to use in a normal Holy Grail War, but if enormous amounts of magical energy could be provided then an entire army could be manifested and maintained especially with enough banners planted on a sufficient number of leylines.