The Story of Illya Emiya

Disclaimer: I do not own any part of the Fate Stay franchise or the characters associated with them.

"talking"

Thoughts

Praeteritus

Out jogging early in the morning, warm breaths puffed from Illya's mouth from the crisp cold air. Dressed in a purple track suit, the young homunculus was making good time so far as this was purely physical effort on her part. To truly see any progress she forbade herself from using any magecraft. "Ugh, this is so hard" she internally complained as she felt her body aching all over. However she had to do this as this was all part of her training for things to come.

Now making her climb into the forest she eventually arrived in a clearing. Taking a break, she bent over holding her knees as her body ached from such exertion. Then allowing the strain and tension to loosen as she took deep breaths she prepared herself for her next exercise.

Finally calm enough, Illya looked around to make sure the coast was clear. Confirming it was safe, "install Rider" as she became draped in a purple vortex of flame like energy. Before long she emerged in an appearance similar to Rider with a mix of her own taste in fashion.

Allowing the power to settle in, she begun to practice once more seeing the full extent of her abilities.

Something like this phenomenon should not have been possible. Yet it happened as she was living breathing proof of it. She was now the embodiment of Medusa the gorgon of Greek mythology. But seeing her human like form, she was summoned before the time she fell.

But simply, the difference between humans and servants was astronomically vast. Even trying to wield a fraction of a heroic spirits true power would completely smash a normal human body to pieces. Strength, speed, magical abilities, the body just can't compensate for such unimaginable stresses. Muscle filaments would be torn to shreds. Bones would be completely pulverized to dust. Magic circuits would have completely been overwhelmed burning out or exploding in the process.

However Illya wasn't exactly a normal human. Due to being composed of numerous magic circuits she was able to endure Rider's abilities though barely. When using 'install' her body's magic circuits instinctively protected itself as it reinforced her body to endure the rigors of the transformation. But even with her massive magical talent she was still flesh and blood. At best this power was only usable for a few minutes.

As dangerous as this ability was it would've been a waste not to use it at all. So she had to train her body to withstand the install spell. The more she trained her body the longer she would be able to handle it. More so to use the full extent of their capabilities. But it turn it would also help with using her magic crest.

Creating a few bird familiars as target practice, Illya was just enjoying the power of Rider with how fast and strong she was. As the bird familiars started to attack, Illya had already countered with her dagger chain knocking them down easily one after the other. Shooting several of them at once, the last of her targets were destroyed.

Whipping her hair back, "yosh" Illya smirked. Taking a breath her Rider form dissipated as she returned back to her regular cloths. "I've definitely gotten the hang of it. This power will be useful in the future battles to come. However I seem to only be able to hold it for fifteen minutes at most before it starts affecting my body. But that's OK for now". Then opening up her pocket window she pulled out her origin scarf.

As she continued to experiment she discovered a derivative spell known as 'include'. Using a physical object as a medium she was able to channel the servants power into the item allowing her to use it. Thus she was able to summon their weapons or equipment as needed.

Wrapping one part of the scarf on her arm while the rest hung in her hand, "include Berserker". Swirling in green like flame as the force blew her hair up, Illya braced herself. In it's wake was a brownish fur arm band, a brownish fur forearm protector, the silver gauntlet Jarngreipr, and gripped in her hand was the mighty hammer Mjolnir. Feeling the weight of the massive hammer she barely swung down as just the force of the swing created a small crater on the ground. Swinging once more towards the trees many branches were rattled as the several leafs blew into the air.

"Berserker is definitely the strongest, but . . . . " as she gave a tired sigh. Though it crossed her mind to try and install Berserker she was worried about the effects mad enchantment would have on her. For she wasn't sure just how in sync she would be with each servant. Thus she dared not try it around her friends or family. Even out here deep in the woods she still dare not try to use Berserker in fear she might end up going on a rampage which would end up in town. But for now it was fine to leave it as is.

She was happy with her progress so far. Hopefully things would stay quiet for a bit longer.

Then feeling a wet drop hit her head, Illya looked up as some storm clouds were starting to form. "It did say it was going to rain today. I better get home quick". Knowing how she wanted to do so, she wrapped her scarf around her hair. "Include Rider" as the apparel turned into a ribbon from her servant form. There was also one more effect that came with include. Like install, she was able to access the servants natural passive abilities. With the purple servant having a A-plus grade in riding she projected a mountain bike as she started to make her way out of the forest.

Concerning the trip back home there were no walking or biking paths to take. Though coupled with Rider it was hardly an issue. Beginning her trek down Illya was navigating her way through the woods like a pro as she steadily began to accelerate. Swerving between trees, this at best was a fun obstacle course as not even the uneven ground slowed her down or disturbed her balance. Taking it up a notch completely defying common sense she started riding on the trees as she bounced the bike from one to the next.

At this point you could say she was just showing off. But Illya was just having too much fun with this ability. With a A-plus grade skill she was able to mount any beast or vehicle and ride it better then any pro could even imagine or master within their lifetime.

Upon leaving the forest and arriving on flat road, she was able to endlessly accelerate to a point where she could even outmatch a high powered engined vehicle. But not wanting to draw any unwanted attention she went at a normal pace as she arrived home.

Jumping off her bike as it faded away she walked in as she was given a warm welcome by Sella, Kuro, and Sakura.

"Welcome home" the Einzbern maid greeted warmly. "Breakfast will be ready soon as Shirou is almost done. Would you like me to draw you a bath before coming to the table?"

"Sure, I would love that!" Illya chimed.

"I hope you enjoyed your morning exercise" said Sakura sincerely. Then catching it in the corner of her eye, "oh my your hand".

"Hmm?" looking to see a minor scratch. "Must have gotten that during my trip through the forest. Must have been a little careless" as Illya gave a whoops like look.

"You need to take better care of yourself Illya-senpai! Especially with such beautiful skin like this!" the meek girl then shot out.

Almost to the point of being lectured, Illya could only give a strained chuckle. But then with her hand being taken into hers a faint green glow had appeared.

Though Sakura helped tend to the household she still felt like she wasn't doing enough. Thus she wanted to learn some magecraft. Considering her unusual, strained, and torturous upbringing her aptitude and potential were limited. But she wanted to learn nonetheless whatever she could to support her senpais. So nearly everyday after school and on weekends she would ask Sella to teach her.

Of course the Einzbern maid was hesitant as she didn't quite trust her as well as didn't care too. But nonetheless under Illya's order she did. Over time she felt a bond begin to form between them. A special relationship between teacher and student as Sella was strict yet fair while Sakura was focused and dedicated. In time a certain fondness formed between them as Sella watched on proudly to her students growth as Sakura's self-esteem grew at being able to meet her teacher's expectation.

Taking her hands away the scratch on Illya's hand had disappeared.

"Hmm, not bad" said Kuro.

"Splendid healing magic" Sella nodded. "No noticeable scars or marks. Very good".

"Thank you Sella-sensei!" Sakura brightly smiled.

Smiling warmly at the exchange Illya continued along her way towards the kitchen as she saw Shirou still cooking with Leysritt close by.

"Oi Shirou, are you almost done yet?" the other Einzbern maid whined as she pawed at some random tools in boredom.

"Almost there. Just a few more minutes" the mage smith answered as he finished up.

Illya couldn't help but chuckle at how cat like Leysritt acted most of the time. With nothing really much to do she generally was sleeping, wandering around, or currently pawing Shirou for something to eat. Unlike Sella, Leysritt has taken to enjoying the concept of eating as a pleasure in a somewhat gluttonous way. Though it made her wonder as well as awestruck in how she was able to maintain such an amazing figure with how much she ate.

But spotting some kendo sticks near the door Shirou had been practicing diligently pushing himself to take on bigger challenges. As per usual he sparred with Leysritt constantly testing his limits. But as of recently the Einzbern maid had noticed an abnormal amount of growth and improvement from the mage smith. Through the years she had been adjusting her strength and skills to match Shirou's as to keep him on his feet.

However recently he had been complaining that Leysritt was taking it easy on him for one reason or another. Yet that was not the case in the least as Shirou had suddenly become stronger within a short time span.

Tracing back the events as well as giving Rin a mouth full, Shirou's sudden level up had occurred after his fight with Archer.

"But what does that had to do with anything?" Illya wondered. But there was really no point in dwelling on it as there was too much she didn't know about the red servant. Yet strangely regardless of how rude and arrogant Archer was, he made her feel . . . . Safe. Of course she felt safe around her family and friends. However this was a special feeling. A feeling she only ever felt around . . . . Shirou. But what did it mean exactly? Though she didn't care to dwell on it.

"Shirou, I've finished with cleaning the dojo" said Saber as she walked in.

"Thank you Saber. Sorry for asking you to do it. But I really needed to get the cooking started" as the mage smith flashed her a brief smile. "Breakfast will be ready soon".

"Wonderful" as the knightly servant gave a small smile as she took a seat at the table.

Furthering his training, Shirou had also asked Saber to spar him as facing different types of opponents was a good way to build up more experience. Though initially she didn't care to do something so troublesome. But after being asked kindly by her master as well as promises of delicious food to eat, the compromise was struck.

After a few sessions a pleasant atmosphere had formed between them. But to Illya, she couldn't quite describe their relationship. If anything they seemed to be better then friends yet less then lovers. In a way she was a tad bit jealous. But then again her brother always had that special talent. Of his many nicknames at school, one of his most infamous was the harem king. Starting some time ago Shirou had this weird ability to attract all these girls to him. Of course the reason was different from individual to individual. But as focused and mindful as her brother was, he was surprisingly dull in matters concerning relationships.

Continuing her thoughts in the bathroom, she removed her cloths as she relished in the feeling of a hot bath.

Contrary to what he believed, Shirou was a pretty popular and well liked guy. He was very easy to approach with how honest and direct he was. However her brother seemed to lack a certain sense of awareness concerning himself. On several occasions when given love letters and gifts of affections he would misunderstand their meaning in almost completely absurd ways. Through the years Illya couldn't believe just how dense he was when it concerned a maiden's heart.

With the girls around him now on a regular basis like Sakura, it was just painfully obvious.

Then giving a tired sigh, "but then I guess oniichan will never understand the way I feel . . . ." said Illya rather ambivalently while sinking deeper into the water. But in the end she figured the only way her dense brother would ever understand these feelings is if she point blankly confessed her love to him. After all this time, she dared not to. She already had a wonderful relationship with Shirou as his sister. If she confessed and things went for a horrid turn, things would never be the same between them. Thus she was afraid to ruin what they had. So she had no choice but to lock these feelings away for her own good.

Giving another tired sigh she climbed out of the bath dried herself off as she got ready for breakfast.

As she made her way towards the kitchen, she could hear the rain as it showered the area. But taking a few steps she heard a large thud from outside as something hit the front door. "Hmm? What was that?" Illya questioned. "Could it be Rin?" she wondered. After so many times she usually would just let herself in by now. So curious she went towards the door to answer it. Opening it her eyes became wide. "Miyu!"

Laying there at the entrance the stoic girl was barely conscious as her cloths were tattered as if she had just ran through a battlefield. But in her arms was a something tightly wrapped in cloth as she protectively held it.

"Miyu! Please answer me?! What happened? Who did this to you?!" Illya asked hysterically.

Alerted to the screaming the other house occupants arrived to the scene as the reacted quickly. Bringing Miyu into the house, they quickly got to work.

As they did what they could, "but why did she come here?" asked Kuro.

"Huh? What do you mean?" Illya then asked.

"She lives with Luvia right? The current head of the Edelfelt family. What reason would she have to come here?" Kuro reasoned.

"She is a master. Then something must have happened. I should go and . . . ." as Illya was stopped.

Miyu had grabbed her arm as a look of desperation stretched across her face.

"Miyu?" Clearly something had her spooked. Even in such a weakened state, she barely held her arm as it was clear something had gone wrong.

Struggling to speak, the stoic girl pushed everything she had to relay this message. "Don't go . . . . Not . . . . Appears to be . . ." Then looking to the ball of cloth she brought, "hope . . . ." she barely managed to word out before falling unconscious.

"Miyu!" Illya cried out.

"Don't worry" said Sella. "She's just fallen asleep. I'm starting the healing process now".

"What should we do?" asked Sakura.

Carefully analyzing the situation and thinking it over considering all permutations and scenarios, "tread carefully" Illya answered. It would've been foolish to make a snap decision without having more information. As it hurt her seeing her friend like this it was not the time to let emotions to get the better of her. So for the time being she needed to investigate exactly what had happened before she took any action. But before that, "what did she mean by hope?"

"She was looking at this right?" as Shirou picked up the cloth. "Huh? I think something might be alive in here" as he carefully removed the cloth.

"What's in there?" Kuro asked.

Removing the layers, "a . . . . Owl"

"An owl?" Kuro repeated as she wanted to see.

Staring at the small bird, it was truly majestic with it's silver and gray coloration. However like Miyu it's condition was not so good either as it looked like it barely survived a battle. Several of it's feathers were damaged as the avian seemed to have been barely clinging onto life. But just as importantly this wasn't a normal bird either as it gave off a magical like aura. More then likely it was a familiar of some sort. But what did this have to do with hope they wondered. Leaving questions aside it needed to be treated as they laid it on the floor.

Returning to the room with some supplies, "is there anything that will be needed?" asked Saber. But before anyone could ask the knightly servant dropped her items as she stared in wide eye to the owl.

"Saber?" Illya asked as she never seen her servant act like this before.

"It's can't be . . . ." Quickly kneeling to the bird, she looked it over detail to detail as her expressions grew wider.

"Do you know something about this bird?" Kuro then questioned.

Nodding carefully, "there is no mistaking it . . . . This is Archimedes. A messenger familiar of my old friend . . . ."

Upon hearing that everyone gave looks of shock. They were all aware of Arthurian legend and in turn that only meant one thing. This friend was none other then Merlin, one of the greatest magus known in human history. A legend whose fame rivaled that of Saber herself. There were many stories that surrounded him for both his achievements as well as mischief's. However due to time, it was difficult to separate fact from fiction with how watered down or exaggerated things tend to get over the centuries.

But of the here and now, they all understood that Merlin was more then likely summoned into this war as a Caster class. If they had to go into a direct fight with such a legend, they were not sure how they would fare against one of the most powerful magus in history.

"But how is this possible?" Saber questioned. "There is no way he could have been summoned".

"Why do you say that?" Sakura asked.

"To my understanding he's not dead yet. The last I heard, he was in Avalon. I don't understand how he could be here".

"Maybe he made a contract with the world like you Saber. But right now it doesn't entirely matter" said Illya. "But . . . . What I'm more worried about is his purpose. If we do meet him, will we be able to approach him as a friend" as she then looked to Miyu, "or a foe".

"He may be quite a lot of things as well as caused his share of problems. However he is no villain".

"Let's not push too hard into this as we still don't know everything that's happening" said Shirou trying to lessen the tension. "We'll know more once Miyu is conscious".

"Agreed" Illya nodded. "She'll stay here for the time being. But most importantly no one must know about this. We'll continue like nothing has changed. Sella and Leysritt will continue to watch and guard our guests while Rin and I investigate".

"I can help also!" Sakura cut in.

"Me too" Kuro also bluntly added in, "of all things considered I think it's kind of obvious where we should be looking first".

The young homunculus grimaced as she was also thinking the same thing. The only other master they're aware of was Luvia herself. If she was responsible for Miyu's condition this only led to more questions. Out of respect to her friend, she never asked questions about her past. But of what she did know the blond magus was the closest thing to a sister to her as she took care of her for all this time. Thus it was hard to believe that Luvia would do something like this.

But once again she needed to compartmentalize her feelings as she needed to go into this with a clear head.

As the next day came, Miyu and Archimedes were still unconscious after the ordeal they've been through. As Rin came by she was filled in on the details as well as their next plan of action.

Without seeming too out of place, Shirou and Rin would look into Luvia while Illya, Kuro, and Sakura would look into the Edelfelt estate.

They just hoped for the best that things were not as they appeared to be.

To be continued . . . .

Author's notes: Thus another chapter. Hope it was OK. Now onto some commentary.

It seems everyone's install appears differently as noted by the use of Saber, Rider, and Archer as the most clearest example. Looking over their designs, the changes in their cloths during an install seems to more or less reflect their personalities. All of Illya's designs have either leaned towards simply being feminine or cutesy as she had already used Saber, Archer, Lancer, Caster, Assassin, and Rider. Miyu's designs while also feminine also holds a sense of what she deems as functional or practical when she used Rider, Saber, and Gil Archer. Though Kuro had only ever used Archer her designs seem to revolve around sexy and flirtatious.

Of course there are other examples such as when Shirou used Archer. His appearance was practically the same but more reflective of his younger self. Shinji use of Assassin just screamed disorder and chaos. As for Sakura using Berserker, a strong reflection of herself and the darkness that laid inside of her. There are more, but not much for me to go on.

All things considered in relation to this chapter, I don't know how Berserker install works in relation to their users. Beatrice and Sakura aren't exactly good examples to go by as they already had some mental instability. So I'm not sure entirely why they are at that level of crazy. But either way mad enchantment must have some sort of effect. As such I've already have an idea of where I want to take this. But we'll see for now.

Now I didn't want to leave Sakura completely on the sidelines. So I decided to bring her in as more of a support class who uses magecraft in that field. But due to the damage the worms did to her body it stands to reason that she will never fully realize her original potential unless she can somehow manage a full body reversion. Something to think about I suppose. It also seemed like a good place to give Sella a more stronger sense of being human with having such interactions.

As for Shirou, I'm still waiting for a girl he hasn't charmed yet. Of course there are exceptions though with exceptions in themselves. Leysritt doesn't have the sense of self to feel things like attraction. Sella is a bit of an unusual case when we've seen her interact with Shirou in the Prisma series. With Bazett, I'm pretty sure given time he'll end up charming her too. At this rate he'd practically rival the legend of most Lancers with their ability to attract the opposite gender. As noted in forum and comment sections, it's why they're called Lancer after all lol.

Now concerning Merlin, I'm aware he is still alive existing beyond the realm of space and time as well as life and death as he is trapped in the garden of Avalon which was a prison designed just for him. So technically he can't actually be summoned as a Servant as he does not reside in the Throne of Heroes. But like Saber, there are ways around it. Now he is able to see and hear what goes on in the outside world with the use of his familiars such as Fou. But it also stands to reason he could also have more then one familiar. So taking inspiration from Disney Sword in the Stone, I decided on setting up Archimedes as one of his familiars. Now concerning his abilities, no one knows much about it besides speculation. So I'll be developing it later when it comes up. But I've already have an idea of what I wanted to give him. Quite possibly the use of first magic as the Philosopher's stone seems to be related to him in popular culture.

If there are any questions or concerns feel free to ask.

So thank you for reading and I further extend my gratitude if you can review as well.