Fate-Stay Night: Precognitive Realization

by SilverMan42

This is the story of a boy named Yuzuru Shindou, an ordinary young man who had gotten himself into the battling ritual known as the Holy Grail War. What will become of him now that he has become part of this war that may result in his death? Will he be able to survive with the help of his Servant? Or will he fall into despair? (Rated M, in case sexual) (Few Tsukihime) (OCxHarem)

7. Chapter 1

I do not own Fate/Stay Night or anything related to Type-Moon whatsoever, except only the OCs of the story. Also, spoiler warning: M is in case of sexual themes and stuff. Anyway, other than that, enjoy!

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Chapter 1

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Yuzuru's POV:

We were in the living room discussing what they know, about mages, magecraft, the mage world, things related to magic…well, I think anyone can get the idea. I was sitting on the couch with Saber sitting alongside me that was the opposite of President Tohsaka, who was having tea while three of her friends, who're also her servants, were standing there, not moving or leaving President Tohsaka's side, while the man in the red hood, apparently named Assassin, was leaning against the wall. Everything was quiet for a moment, as I tried to take all the information that they gave me in before I spoke first.

"So, magic…" I said, "And mages…they're all real?"

"Seriously?" said Tsukuda-san, "That's your first question?"

"Well, it's no surprise." said Ishikawa-san, "This whole thing is new to him."

"Uh…sorry." I said, "It's just…it's a lot for me to take in and all."

President Tohsaka placed her tea on the table before she said, "To answer your question, mages have always existed since the Age of Gods, the period where it began with the genesis of the Earth until the beginning of the Common Era around 0 AD, during which the world followed laws based not on physics but on Mystery. And, in a sense, yes, magic and magecraft have also existed since the Age of God. However, magic and magecraft are two different things. Magecraft, or Thaumaturgy, is the artificial reenactment of Mystery, which is ordinarily possible only by inhuman beings. It is the ability to bring about what is possible through science with supernatural means, and although the process is considered a miracle, the result is not. In other words, it is a practice of magic. The limits of magecraft have changed with time, as science evolved and Magic from the past became possible through science. There is no impossibility for Modern Magecraft within the rules of the world and anything within the limits of human intellect is possible, although there are imitations where it only appears that something is possible. However, because magecraft acts as the reenactment of preexisting phenomena that already exist in the world, it is impossible to use it to create new Mysteries; even with an infinite amount of research, there exists a "wall" that prevents the wisdom of humans from doing so in the current era. The realm past this "wall" is known as Magic. Modern Magecraft remains inferior to magecraft from the Age of Gods in terms of magnitude because magi from the past acquired their magical energy directly from the Root, also known as the Akasha. The difference between the Magecraft of the past and the Magecraft of the present can be explained by the difference in civilizations; while the civilization of the Age of Gods existed side-by-side with the truth, the civilization of the Age of Man exists to search for the truth. Magic, on the other hand, or also referred to as True Magic and Sorcery in other translations, is the highest class of Mystery that surpasses magecraft and all current sciences of that age. It represents the actualization of events that are impossible to reproduce in a certain era, whether by humans or the planet, even if given an infinite amount of time and resources. The acquisition of the capacity to perform magic is considered the ultimate accomplishment of a Magus, and only within the grasp of those who have accessed the Swirl of the Root. "Magic" is differentiated from "Magecraft" in that the consequences of its use are ostensibly "impossible" or "miraculous." The end output of a spell that creates fire is within the dictates of the world because something as mundane as lighting a match can yield the same effect. Concepts like time manipulation, teleportation, spatial warping and quarantine, and the resurrection of the dead are miracles thought to be possible only through the application of Magic. The Denial of Nothingness, Operation of Parallel Worlds, and Time Travel can all perform resurrections, but the resurrection of the dead through conventional methods is something that not even Magic has granted since the days of old. Magecraft can be classified as human wisdom and the world, while Magic is the solitude outside of that, included in neither. Magecraft focuses on the studying of history, the works of man, and the circle of life of the planet, but Magic is considered the providence of a God beyond the skies."

"So, in other words, what your doing is magic, but at the same time, it's not magic." I concluded.

"Correct." said President Tohsaka.

"Okay…" I said, "So, then, that's who you people are then? Mages?"

"That is correct." said President Tohsaka, "And I'm sure you're wondering, why does such thing never come in public, and why ordinary people have never heard of nor learned about such things."

"Well, yeah, sort of." I said.

"Well, that is because, as you can see, magic had ceased to exist in the eyes of those who're outside of the mage world, such as yourself. However, those who do magecraft continue their practices in magecraft in secret away from the eyes of many. And, due to the laws of the mage world, no outsiders of the mage world should become aware of magecraft, and should anyone witness any mages who use magecraft, they must either have their memories rewritten or erased, or be silenced by death, permanently."

"Whoa…" I said, a little shocked, "That…sounds harsh."

"Indeed." said President Tohsaka, "However, it is necessary for mages to keep outsiders away from all of what involves magecraft, because it could cause panic to anyone who is frightened by what unnatural that they have seen, or it could bring in those hungry for power and would have them go through lengths to gain what Magecraft could offer them, only to lead it to chaos."

"I see." I said, "So, why are you telling me, a normal guy, all of this?"

"Because you are different from those people who are either scared of magic or people who want power out of it." President Tohsaka answered, "From the moment I saw you, I knew that you were far different than everyone else."

"I am?" I asked.

"Yes." said President Tohsaka, "You may not realize it now, but you are able to adapt to what you have seen and what I have told you, despite the flaws that you have. Even after I told you everything about the mage world, you don't show any signs of fear or hunger for power. You have so much potential, as proof of the Saber-Class Servant you have right beside you."

I looked at Saber, who was sitting beside me with her eyes close. She must be listening to our conversation without looking at us. I then turned back and began to ask, "So, then…President Tohsaka, about this Holy Grail War?"

"Right, onto the next topic." said President Tohsaka, "Oh, and by the way, there is no need for formalities just because I'm a student council president. You may simply call me Mirai. I'm used to being called by my first name, anyway."

Oh, uh…right." I said, "Then, uh…Mirai-senpai? I mean, you are like a year older than I am."

She chuckled a bit and said, "Fair enough. Anyway, straight to the point. The Holy Grail War is a battle royale where 7 mages become known as Masters to fight against one another to the death with each of their 7 spiritual beings all known as Servants. By the way, do you notice the red markings on the back of your hand?"

"Red markings?" I said, confused for a minute, before I realized what she meant and then said as I showed my marks to her, "You mean this?"

"That is correct." said Mirai-senpai, "Those three red markings are called Command Seals. Command Seals are three claims of absolute obedience, the crystallization of great magic, that a Master has over a Servant in the Holy Grail War system. Unable to normally be controlled by humans, they are burdened by the "absolute condition for materialization", the authority of the Command Seals carved into them at the moment of summoning. They are holy marks signifying a magi's status as a Master. Command Seals compel a Servant to perform a specific action. For example, a Servant such as yours is incapable of teleporting from this place. However, if you order via the Command Seal, it would use both your mana to make the teleportation very possible. The three seals are the crystallization of high magic, overcoming the limits of flesh and blood."

"So, in other words," I said, "The more specific the command I make, the stronger the command becomes."

"That's right." said Mirai-senpai, "And if you use vaguely worded orders, the Command Seals are less effective on a Servant."

"Servants…" I said, while looking at Saber, then the red hooded man, "You mean like them?"

"Yes, that is correct." said Mirai-senpai, "Servants are spiritual beings made into special familiars of the highest rank that are bound to the Master. They are Heroic Spirits, spirits of the legendary epic heroes who achieved great deeds in life, have become objects of worship after their deaths, and/or Divine Spirits, the classification for the highest rank of Nature Spirit, and is the name for the remnants of gods after the deterioration of the Age of Gods, summoned by the Holy Grail for the purpose of competing under Masters in the Holy Grail War. These 7 Servants are divided into each separate class. What you have here is a Saber-Class Servant, mine is an Assassin, and the woman we fought earlier was a Berserker. The four other Servant Classes are Lancer, Archer, Rider, and Caster."

"I see." I said, taking it all in, "So, then, these Servants are in different classes for a reason."

"Correct." said Mirai-senpai, "Sabers are known for specializing in swords and close combats. The Servants of that class are known as the most powerful and strongest class. Lancers are known for specializing in spears and midrange combats. Archers are known for specializing in arrows or other projectiles in combats and long-range attacks. Riders are known for specializing in riding skills and use them to ride on horses, chariots, cars, or any other living things or vehicles that involve riding. Casters are known for specializing in spellcasting and any sorts of feet of magics, like us mages, but are much ancient and much stronger than us regular mages. Assassins are known for specializing in stealth and any sorts of tricks and lethal tactics that involve in assassination. The Servants of that class are known as the weakest class. And Berserkers are known for losing all sense of rationality and sense of souls or consciousness for raw powers and incredible immense strength, and while they are powerful, they are also quite dangerously threatening, both for the life of Masters and others."

"I see." I said, "So, this…Holy Grail, do you mean the actual Holy Grail made by God or something?"

"No, not quite." said Mirai-senpai, "The Holy Grail that we speak about is not the Grail from Christianity. This Holy Grail, the one made for the Holy Grail War, is the omnipotent wish-granting device that will grant the one wish of any Master and Servant pair who would claim victory for it if one pair of Master and Servant defeats all others."

"I see." I said, taking it all in, "So then, if you win the Holy Grail War by killing other Masters and Servants, you could wish for whatever you want from that Holy Grail?"

"That is correct." said Mirai-senpai, "However, there have been no victor of a Master and Servant who had yet to have their wish granted. Not yet, at least."

"I see." I said.

"So," said Mirai-senpai, "Have you managed to take all of it in?"

"Well, sort of." I said, "I mean, it's gonna be a lot for me to get used to, but, yeah, I think I manage to get it all in." Then, a thought came to me, so I asked, "Wait, Servants are heroes from the past, right? If they're from the past, then that's gonna be a problem for them here in the present, so shouldn't we at least try to help them get to learn about the modern world? I mean, there's no way that they'll be able to understand anything about the modern world, right?"

Before Mirai-senpai could say anything, Assassin spoke up and answered, "Very appreciative, kid, but that won't be necessary."

"Huh?" I said, turning to him, "W-What do you mean?"

"When we Servants are summoned into the modern world, the Holy Grail grants us knowledge, information, and understanding about the modern world required to allow us to fit into any era." Assassin answered, "No matter how ancient the Heroic Spirit, Servants should understand a number of concepts that were not known in their time. For example, if a Rider-Class Servant sees and enters a vehicle of your time, then they would be able to have an understanding on how the vehicle works and how it is driven, despite the unfamiliarity."

"Oh." I said, "So, in other words, we have nothing to worry about, because you already know about things in the modern world, thanks to the Holy Grail."

"In a sense, yes." said Assassin, "Though sometimes it's not necessarily true."

"Thank you, Assassin." Mirai-senpai nodded to Assassin before she turned to me and said, "In any case, you have no need to worry about it. Now, do you have any questions?"

I thought about it for a moment, before I said, "Well, I do have one. Do you know how this Holy Grail War began?"

"You wish to know the full history?" Mirai-senpai asked.

"Well, yeah." I said, "I mean, I'm still kinda new to all of this stuff. About the mage world and about this Holy Grail War. I just…thought I'd know how it all started."

"I see." said Mirai-senpai, "Well, I could explain it to you, but I believe I should have someone else do it for me." She got up from her seat before she turned to Aimi and said, "Aimi, prepare my coat for me. We'll be going to meet the overseer of the Holy Grail War."

"As you wish." Aimi bowed before she turned and went.

Mirai-senpai then turned to me and asked with a smile, "Would you like to take a walk?"

"Uh…sure." I said, "But, where are we going?"

"You'll find out soon enough." said Mirai-senpai, "Come with us."

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We were out walking on the streets in the middle of the night. Mirai-senpai was wearing her red coat, her bodyguards were walking beside her, while Saber, wearing a yellow coat as a disguise for some reason, and I were walking behind them with Aimi walking alongside us being our escort. For some reason, though, I don't see Assassin anywhere. Maybe they left him behind?

"If you're wondering where Assassin is, you don't need to worry." said Mirai-senpai, "He's with us, he's merely taking spiritual form in order for him to move freely, so you can't see him."

"Oh, I see." I said a bit surprised, "I didn't know Servants can do that."

"Well, Servants are familiars, Shindou-sama." said Aimi, "So, it is hardly that surprising."

"I see." I said before I realized something, and then I turned to Saber and asked, "Hey, Saber, if you're a Servant like Assassin, then shouldn't you be able to do that, too? I mean, like, go invisible?"

Saber remained quiet for some reason, not answering my question.

"Hey, Saber?" I said, trying to get her attention, "Did I…uh…say something wrong? Or, maybe it has something to do with me, not being a mage? I mean-"

"No, Master." Saber spoke up, as she turned to face me with a small smile, "Rest assured, it's not you that's the problem, nor does it have anything to do with you not being a magus. There's…a reason for that."

"A reason?" I asked.

"I'll explain it to you once we're finished seeing the overseer." said Saber, "For now, we'll need to follow them, so that you'll have a better understanding about the Holy Grail War."

"Oh." I said, "Well, okay."

We kept on walking for a long while until we came to…a church?

"Wait, isn't this the Fuyuki Church?" I asked, "Why here?"

"This is where the overseer resides." said Mirai-senpai, "The priestess here is the one who acts as a third party, keeping an eye on the progress of the Holy Grail War and ensuring that nothing goes wrong. The priestess here is also the one who has knowledge about the events of the past Holy Grail Wars, from the beginning to the last Holy Grail War."

"Really?" I said, surprised, "I didn't even realize that there were other past Holy Grail Wars besides this one."

"The Holy Grail War today that we're in now is the Sixth Holy Grail War." said Tsukuda-san.

"You thought this was the only one?" Ishikawa-san asked.

"Well, I mean, no, not really." I said, "I mean, a little, but…I guess if the church had been around to keep an eye on the Holy Grail War, then they must've kept a lot of records. I have a feeling that there's more to it than that."

"Well, rest assured, you'll be learning more about them soon enough." said Mirai-senpai, "So, shall we go in?"

"Uh, yeah." I said as I began to follow them inside. I then stopped to see Saber staying where she was, so I turned to her and asked, "Aren't you coming, Saber?"

"I'll be staying outside and wait for you." said Saber, "I wish to stay put from this building until you make your return, just for precaution. And besides, I need to keep a lookout so that no enemy Servant would follow and come to us."

"Oh, okay." I said, "Well, okay, then. I'll be back."

I then turned and went inside the church with Mirai-senpai and her friends. I need some more answers.

---

We entered the church, and it was dark inside, and the only light we had was the moonlight, but I could tell that the inside of the building was very large, as this large room had seats for praying in the church that was lined up in rows of four, and at the front of was where the large table for the priests of the church resides with the large window behind it, a cross of the church standing in the middle, a piano set on the right side, and other chairs and/or desks at the left side. At the front was a person kneeling before the cross. I guess that must be the priestess.

I took a step forward and asked, "Uh…excuse me, are you the priestess of this church and the overseer of…well, regarding the Holy Grail War?"

The moment I said that, the priestess stopped praying to stand up on her feet and turn around, revealing to me her appearance. The priestess had long light grey hair, slightly pale skin, and golden eyes, and stands about 5'1" tall. She wore a church robe that is dark blue and white and black boots, while under her left sleeves, her left arm was covered in bandages.

She looked at me for a moment, before she said with a stoic yet slightly surprised face, "My, don't we have a new face?" She then answered my question as she introduced herself, "Yes, I'm the priestess of the Fuyuki Church and the overseer of this current Holy Grail War. I am Caren Hortensia. Nice to meet you."

"Uh…yeah, it's nice to meet you, too, priestess." I bowed to her, "Uh…my name is Yuzuru Shindou, and…I'm a Master of Saber in this Holy Grail War."

"Yuzuru Shindou…" said the priestess, as she looked at me for a minute, before she said, "Huh. Indeed, you're certainly a new face. I've never seen nor heard of a mage like you before."

"Uh…actually, priestess, I'm not really a mage." I said, "I'm just a normal guy who got dragged into this Holy Grail War mess."

"Oh, is that so?" she said stoically, "Huh. I almost feel sorry for you for being caught in the middle of that mess, Mr. Poor Useless Dog."

"Ugh…!" I said, feeling stunned, while I heard snickering behind me, "Uh…okay, uh…was that-?"

"I was joking, you whinny dog." she cut me off, "I don't feel sorry for you, stupid barking mongrel."

"Urgh…!" I said feeling stunned again, "Okay, seriously, are you really a priestess, or are you just making fun of me?"

"Does it matter?" she said.

"Ugh…!" I grumbled a little, before I said, "Okay, look, I really have absolutely no idea what's going on! I just had a crazy night tonight! I almost got killed by Berserker twice, I've seen crazy magic and supernatural going on, and I almost felt like losing my mind since all that craziness! So, I really, really need some explanation!"

"Is that so?" she smirked a little, before she said stoically, "Huh. Now I wonder if I should feel bad for you or not for almost getting killed, not that I care about it for you, worthless maggot."

I grumbled again and said almost angrily, "Okay, seriously, aren't you a priestess or something?! How about a little compassion or something?!"

"Hmph." she smirked, "Do I look like someone who's compassionate for you, little dumb doggy?"

Okay, seriously, what is wrong with this priestess?!

"Alright, that's enough, Caren." said Mirai-senpai, as she placed her hand on my shoulder to calm me down, "As entertaining as that was, that's not the real reason we're here. We came to help Yuzuru understand everything about the Holy Grail War. So, can we please get straight to business?"

The priestess looked at Mirai-senpai for a moment, before looking back at me and said, "Very well then, let's get straight to the point. Honestly, I'm actually quite surprised that a newcomer like you would end up becoming a Master, let alone being a Master of Saber. Though, then again, this isn't the first time a non-mage has entered the Holy Grail War."

"Really?" I asked, a bit surprised.

"Tell me, Yuzuru Shindou," said the priestess, "How much do you know about the Holy Grail War from these people?"

"From Mirai-senpai and her friends?" I said before I thought about it, and then I answered, "Well, from what they've told me, I know that it's a competition where 7 mages become Masters paired up with 7 spiritual beings called Servants and that the 7 pairs of Masters and Servants must fight against each other to the death, in order to win a golden cup called the Holy Grail. Am I right?"

"My, the little puppy sure is well informed about things." the priestess smirked, and I groaned from her calling me that, before she answered, "Yes, that is correct. To be specific, it is a ritual that would decide the ownership of the omnipotent device, the one you know as the Holy Grail, in order to obtain a miracle from it. As you can guess, this Holy Grail is not the one from Christianity, the Christian holy relic that received the blood of Christ, but rather, this Holy Grail is the prototype of an even more ancient omnipotent container. When we say "omnipotent", it means that the Holy Grail has unlimited power that can grant any and all miracles. Or, of course, in your words, grant any and all wishes, whether it is good and selfless, or evil and selfish. For example, if you wish for something good and selfless, then you can either ask it for world peace and happiness for everyone, or if you wish for something evil and selfish, then you can either ask for immortality and eternal youth, or even the destruction of the entire world itself."

"I see." I said, "But, if the Grail really is a powerful thing, then shouldn't Masters and Servants at least share it instead of fighting over it?"

"As fair and logical as that might be, I'm afraid it is not that simple." said the priestess, "You see, despite being an omnipotent wish-granting device, the Grail can only grant but one wish. It was not any of us that decided that factor, but rather, the Grail itself was the one that decided it."

"The Grail decided it?" I asked.

"Correct." said the priestess, "All of this is the work of the Holy Grail itself. Because of that reason, it leads to conflicts and opposing ideas of what wishes that any Master desires must be granted, so much so that it would even cause to lead to bloodshed."

"So, in other words, fighting and killing each other is necessary for both Masters and Servants." I said.

"That is right." said the priestess, "That is exactly how it happened in the very "first" Holy Grail War. Over 200 years ago, this system was found and established by the Three Founding Families, the family of mages who created a powerful object known as the Greater Grail, the gateway linked to the Root and the ultimate prize for the Fuyuki Holy Grail War, and is in essence, a wishing machine." The priestess then looked at Mirai-senpai and added, "Her family, the Tohsakas, was one of the founding families."

"Whoa…!" I said, surprised and amazed before I looked at Mirai-senpai and asked, "Really?"

Mirai-senpai nodded in response.

I then looked back at the priestess as she added, "The other founding members were the Einzberns and the Makiris." She then continued, "The original purpose of the ritual was to recover the Third Magic lost by the Einzberns, also referred as Heaven's Feel or the "Cup of Heaven". Around 1790, the ancestors of the Three Founding Families, Justizia Lizleihi von Einzbern, Nagato Tohsaka, and Zouken Makiri, created the system to create a gate leading to Akasha. At that time, the Mage's Association and the Holy Church were locked in a battle to the death, so a land in the Far East, where the Church could not monitor, was chosen. The Einzberns provided the alchemy to create it and prepared the vessel for the Grail, the Tohsaka provided the necessary land and called forth the Servants, and the Makiri assembled the magecraft to stabilize the starting materials and designed the Command Seals that command the Servants. Back when the Tohsaka were developing the ritual of Heaven's Feel along with the Makiri and the Einzbern, one of Mirai's ancestors, Nagato's daughter, played a greater role in the completion of the Holy Grail War system than her father. The Holy Grail War itself was devised by Justizia, and she was to become the key of the ritual. The Great Grail was created by forming a large circuit from many multi-layered Crests carved onto a bare rock over fifty meters in diameter. It was covered in multiple layers of circuits, while its many geometric figures turned in place. Justizia stood in the center of it and became the key to reenacting the Third Magic. The Holy Grail would have only been just a Holy Grail without her, as her will was required for Heaven's Feel. Kishur Zelretch Schweinorg, the teacher of the Three Founding Families, acted as a witness to the event."

"I see." I said, "Then, that's where the first Holy Grail War started."

"Correct." said the priestess, "The First Holy Grail War took place around 1800. However, it was not meant to be anything like the future Holy Grail Wars. Back then, it was not named as such, as it was only meant to be a ritual for the families to reach Akasha. It took ten years from its establishment to gather the necessary energy to manifest. However, the Three Families who were originally planning to utilize it realized that the system could only allow for one person to utilize it. Though they had the same goals, their opinions on how to reach them were different, so the unforeseen aspect caused them to break off their alliance. Instead, they agreed to proceed with the system and the means to create the Grail, but they would then become enemies when it was summoned. Due to requiring seven Heroic Spirits to achieve the ritual and seven Masters to summon them, they had brought in four outside magi with the call of "We've succeeded in manifesting the Grail. If you'd like to witness this miracle, join us and become Masters." Though the outsider magi had only sought to learn about the ritual of activating the Grail, they used the internal quarrel as an opportunity to grant their own desires. Though the Three Families held the rights to the Grail, winning the conflict would allow them to obtain a wish regardless of their ancestry. It was not a major conflict in the end and can be called a "small quarrel of sorts" due to the conflicting opinions and interests. From the point of view of the Einzberns, the first time ended before the completion and the evocation site of the Grail was held at Ryuudou temple on Mount Enzou. That was how the Holy Grail War came to be. Sixty years later, The Second Holy Grail War was held, formally taking on the name of the "Holy Grail War". Developing into a war for the second time, it pointed out shortcomings in the rules due to it developing into a murder spree in which nobody survived. It ended with no victory, and the Three Families took it as a lesson to create more precise rules such as bringing in a third party, the Holy Church, an international religious organization styled after the real Roman Catholic Church. The Holy Grail War is unknown to the general populace, and the Church is responsible for the cover-up work in which they manipulate any and all information by modifying the memories of the victims and covering up the battle damage while the Mage's Association handles the media."

Before I could ask anything, Mirai-senpai stepped in and answered, "It was a way to cover up what was going on to ensure that there wouldn't be any chaos or panics. Since the First and Second Holy Grail War, they needed someone from the Holy Church, such as the priestess, Caren Hortensia, to ensure that everyone is kept safe and that everything regarding the Holy Grail War does not go to the public. Should anyone learn about it or even witness anything related to the Holy Grail War, it would put them to death. Just as what happened to you, or at least, would've happened to you."

"I see." I said, "But the Holy Grail War doesn't end there, does it?"

"That's right." said the priestess, "The Third Holy Grail War took place in the 1930s, held on the eve of World War II. The fourth evocation site was confirmed and established, later becoming the center of the developing residential area of Shinto, the Fuyuki City Hall. Jubstacheit von Einzbern, the eighth head of the Einzbern family, prepared the Einzbern forest and the Einzbern castle as the family's headquarters. The Tohsaka, Mirai's family, and the Edelfelt, her rival family, were participants. The Edelfelts had two Masters, the Edelfelt sisters, each of them with the same Saber-class Servant due to their unique Sorcery Trait. The Einzberns, who were tired of losing out on reclaiming the Third Magic, subverted the usual system in order to summon and obtained an Avenger-class Servant, the Heroic Spirit of Vengeance and an Extra Servant Class, which replaced the Berserker-class, but that Servant was a very weak Servant without any abilities, thus the Einzberns lost and failed in the war. During the War, there were battles over the Lesser Grail with the Imperial Army and the Nazis as well, and the fighting unfolded in the Imperial Capital. As mentioned, Avenger was lost early during the conflict, putting the Einzberns to their loss, and while upholding the Saber Class's reputation, at least one of the Edelfelt sisters made it to the end. Unfortunately, they were ultimately defeated by the Tohsaka, and while the fate of the younger sister of the Edelfelt became unknown, the older sister ran away from the country, promising never to come back again. The Lesser Grail was destroyed during the battles before the victor could be decided, so the ritual became meaningless and failed. The evocation site of the Grail was set to be at the Fuyuki Church. There was a meeting held at a suitable time that appointed the then young Risei Kotomine as the supervisor for the next Holy Grail War. The ritual ended in failure, thus, like the last two Grail Wars, had no victor."

"I see." I said.

"So, then," said the priestess, "After learning about the origins of the Grail War and how it works, what're your thoughts on it?"

"Well," I said, "To be honest, it sounds intense…and brutal. Masters and Servants fighting against each other for the Holy Grail; it sounds…overwhelming. I don't…even know if I should be able to do that, killing other Masters."

"Well, if you have no desire in participating, then why not use up all your Command Seals and break your pact with Saber?" the priestess suggested.

"Huh?" I said, confused.

"You should know that the Command Seals that you have represents that you're a Master, representing the bond and pact between you two, and that you would do whatever you will saying simple commands with it." said the priestess, "Should you use up all of your Command Seals with whatever meaningless commands you bring out, your pact with Saber will be severed and you'll no longer be known as a Master. It's as simple as that. That is if you don't want any part in this Holy Grail War."

I looked at the Command Seals that I have in my hand for a moment. Using up all my Commands Seals, and sever my pact with her? Can I really…no, should I really do that?

"The decision is all up to you." said the priestess, "Not that I care, anyway."

"Can I ask some things?" I asked, "Let's say if I were to participate and not sever my pact with Saber, what should I do in this Holy Grail War? Should I really fight against other Masters and Servants? And do I really have to kill other Masters who're people just like us? What would be the point in that?"

"My, aren't you a curious one." said the priestess, surprised, yet her face remained stoic, "Well then, I'll answer them for you. As you are aware, this is the battle royale where one must fight against the other for the Holy Grail, so should you participate in this Holy Grail War, then you must fight against other Masters in order to win such a prize. So yes, you must fight against other Masters, if you participate. And since this battle royale is a battle to the death, you must of course fight against other Masters and Servants to the death. Masters and Servants are both tied together through their pact, bounded by each other's fates and destiny, so should a Master die, then their Servant will die as well. In other words, should you die, Saber will die as well."

"And while it's true that killing Masters is the most effective to defeat and destroy all other Servants, that is not necessarily the case." Mirai-senpai added, "Masters and Servants can also fight against and then kill a Servant without having the need to kill a Master, and any Master who loses their Servant can either let themselves get killed or be sent here to the church for shelter."

"Wait, really?" I asked, surprised, "They can do that?"

"Of course." said Mirai-senpai, "This is what the Holy Church is for. As mentioned before, they keep any and all outsiders unaware of and away from anything related to the Holy Grail War, but also keep other Masters who lost their Servants safe and sound away from the fighting should they seek shelter from them. It is a…safe mechanism, you could say, for anyone who wishes not to die in any sort of battle."

"I see." I said.

"Now then, Yuzuru Shindou," said the priestess, "Now that you know much about the Holy Grail War, what shall you do now? Will you participate, knowing that you can never turn back and return to your life again? Once you take part I the Holy Grail War, your life will never be the same again. Well, what is your decision?"

I took a deep thought about what they said for a moment. Everything they've told me so far really seems crazy. But…at the same time, I think it might…

"Priestess Hortensia, I have one more question." I said, "If this is the Sixth Holy Grail War, then what about the other two Grail Wars before this one? Is there anything like an event that's related to those two?"

The priestess looked at me for a moment, before she asked me, "Tell me, have you ever heard of the Great Fire of Fuyuki?"

I took in what she asked me, before I answered, "Yeah, of course. I learned about it some time ago after I moved here." I then began to describe it, "It all happened 20 years ago when a great and massive fire appeared out of nowhere and began to burn and destroy everything in sight. The great fire burned down and destroyed most of the entire Fuyuki City, destroying everything and killing everyone caught in the sight of that massive fire, leaving only little to no survivors. Those very few who did survive the most horrific tragedy of that fire were mostly orphaned kids, and all of the people who had died by that fire 20 years ago were only left as memories, long gone from the lives of loved ones, or even forgotten. The orphans from that tragedy were either left to the orphanage where their whereabouts soon became unknown or taken in by people who also suffered the same loss as those orphans." I then realized something and asked, "Does that have something to do with the last Grail Wars?"

"Correct." said the priestess, "What you described about the great fire 20 years ago was the conclusion of the Fourth Holy Grail War. However, unlike the last Holy Grail Wars before the Fourth, the cause of that great fire was unknown even to the Church or the Mages. No one knows exactly what happened nor how it actually happened. All we know is that it was related to the Holy Grail War."

"If 20 years ago was the Fourth, then would that mean the Fifth was 10 years ago?" I asked.

"Correct." said the priestess, "And while normally the Grail requires 60 years in order to amass enough mana to be able to summon Servants, making the planning period span over generations, such as the case of the period with the First War all the way up until the Fourth War, there is, however, an exception to it. If the Grail is unable to utilize its energy, that which is leftover can reduce the time to as little as a decade, such as in the case of the period between the Fourth and Fifth Wars, and even the Grail War now."

"I see." I said, "Then, about the last one? Was there any conclusion to the last Holy Grail War?"

The priestess remained silent for a moment, before she answered, "No, there isn't one."

"Huh?" I said, confused, "What do you mean?"

"I'm…afraid that I cannot answer that question." said the priestess, "For the simple reason, that even I myself don't know."

"Huh?!" I said, even more confused, "What do you mean by that?! I thought the Holy Church knows everything about the events of the Holy Grail Wars!"

"Unfortunately, that's not necessarily the case, regarding about the Fifth." said the priestess, "Despite one of our members overseeing the Fifth Holy Grail War, any and all records regarding about the events of the Fifth Holy Grail War was somehow and unknowingly got lost and destroyed, and any shreds of evidence related to the Fifth Holy Grail War was already erased, leaving us no clue as to what had happened since the Fifth War."

"In other words, without any idea what happened since that day, you're lost." I said.

"That's right." said the priestess, "Well, in any case, that no longer matters now. What matters now, is what will happen next in today's Holy Grail War."

I looked at the priestess, as she walked to the table at the front center of the stage of the church before she placed her hand on it and then looked at me with a serious expression on her face.

"Now, Yuzuru Shindou, knowing all that I have told you now, do you have any more questions?" the priestess asked, keeping her serious expression, "If not, then I will ask again, and THIS will be your last chance! Will you or will you not participate in the Holy Grail War?!"

I looked at the priestess for a moment, as she looked at me in the eyes with the eyes as serious as it can be, waiting for me to give out an answer on my decision. I then began to think about it for a moment, thinking of what I should do, and what my decision should be. As I did so, I began to think about what had happened today, about what happened this night, about what I've seen, about what came around me, about what Mirai-senpai and the priestess told me, about the mage world, about the Holy Grail War, and then…about the voices in my dreams. The voices…could they have been related to the Grail? Then, if that's the case, then there must be a reason why the Grail chose me, to be a Master, to be a part of this Holy Grail War, and whatever it is…I…I…I have to find out.

I looked at the priestess I gave out a determined look on my face, as I gave out my answer, an answer that I knew I can't take back and would change me and my life…for good, "I'll do it!"

"Oh?" the priestess looked at me curiously.

"I'll participate in this Holy Grail War!" I said, not letting my determination falter, "The Holy Grail chose me, a normal guy, for a reason, and I want to know what it is! And if fighting in the Holy Grail War will help me find that reason, then I'll do it! And besides, I…I have another reason to do this. I want to change who I am, to be better. And if being a Master helps me, then so be it."

The priestess looked at me in the eyes and warned, "Are you sure of your decision? Once you take this path, there will be no going back for you, and it may cost your life."

"I might end up dead, sooner or later," I said, "But I'll still do it, and I'll take that chance."

We stayed where we were as we looked at each other deep in our eyes, the priestess looking into my eyes to see that I was certain, while I looked at her eyes to show her that I was determined, regardless of what happens after.

After a moment of silence, the priestess stopped looking at me and nodded with a smile of satisfaction, before she said, "Very well, then. Yuzuru Shindou, the seventh and final Master of the Holy Grail War, I welcome you to the Sixth Holy Grail War, and I wish you luck and my blessing."

"Thank you." I bowed.

"Go now, and rejoice, my child." said the priestess, "For I will pray for all of your victories."

I nodded before I turned to Mirai-senpai who nodded to me with a smile. I turned back to the priestess and bowed to her, before I turned away and began to leave the church with Mirai-senpai and the others, now fully ready for what comes next for me.

---

Caren's POV:

I watched as the boy, Mirai, and her friends left the church, before shutting the door behind them, leaving me alone in complete silence in the quiet church hall. I remained in complete silence for a moment, before I spoke up and said without looking, "I'm sure you've heard everything by now. The final Master and Servant have arrived. So, what do you think of this turn of event, Master of Lancer?"

I hear a sigh on my right side where, in the shadows, stands a silhouette of a man, the Master of Lancer, sitting in his chair. Sitting next to him was a silhouette of a woman, his Servant, Lancer, with her spear in her hand.

"Oh, man." said the Master of Lancer, lazily, "To think that someone I know would actually end up being a Master, and with a Saber-Class Servant, no less. I'm quite surprised, to be honest. Although then again, the Grail must've been desperate, so I guess picking a nobody like him must've been the Grail's choice."

"Either way, with Saber, now summoned into this war, everything is all set." said Lancer, "And the Holy Grail War can finally begin."

"Yes." I said, "It begins. However, you two shouldn't reveal yourselves. At least, not yet. Instead, for the time being, I want you two to do something for me."

"Oh, yeah?" said the Master of Lancer, "And what would that be?"

"I'll need you to go and keep an eye on the Masters of the Grail War and see what you two can learn about them. While you do, I'll also need to learn about someone who's breaking the rules of the Holy Grail War."

"Let me guess, reconnaissance." said the Master of Lancer, "You want us to be the eyes and ears of the Holy Grail War, see what we can find out about what's going on, and make sure that the Holy Grail War runs as smoothly as possible."

"Correct." I said, "And no matter what, do not reveal yourselves, and do not engage any Masters or Servants."

He sighed and said, "Yeah, okay, whatever you say, boss. Whadaya think, Lancer?"

I heard Lancer chuckle a little before she said, "Very well, we will go with the plan. And if we learn anything, we will report to you."

After that, I hear them disappear and leave, leaving me alone. I then turned back to kneel and went back to praying to the Lord.

---

Yuzuru's POV:

We were walking on our way to get back home. I was walking behind with Saber and Aimi walking beside me while Mirai-senpai and her two guards were walking ahead of me. As we continued walking, I looked at the Command Seals that were on my left hand. Well, I guess this is it.

We then stopped at two roads as Mirai-senpai said, "This is where we will part ways for now. You should be able to go back home on your way, no?"

"Uh…yeah…thanks." I said.

"Do not mention it." said Mirai-senpai, "I'm merely returning the favor for what you did after tonight. I suppose you could say that makes us even."

"Still, are you sure you girls will be fine on your own like that?" I asked out of concern, "I mean, it's still pretty late, and there's no telling what could happen in the middle of the night."

"You have no need for concern." said Mirai-senpai, "We may not look as such, but we do know how to fight and handle ourselves, and we have Assassin on our side should an enemy Master or Servant tries to attack us. And besides, Masters and Servants can only attack at nighttime and not at daytime, and it'll already be morning before anyone tries anything that's threatening."

"Oh, I see." I said.

"Also," said Mirai-senpai, "Since you're now part of the Holy Grail War, you and I will be fighting against each other in the near future, so I advise that you best prepare yourself."

"Right, okay." I said, "I'll do that, although I'd wish to at least resolve this without fighting you."

"Why, because I'm a woman?" Mirai-senpai asked.

"W-Wha…uh…n-no!" I stammered before I saw her giving me a look, and I admitted in defeat, "O-Okay, yeah…a little…"

Mirai-senpai chuckled and said, "I'm joking. Although, I can see why you would refuse to fight women, at least in most cases."

"Uh…yeah…" I said as I scratched the back of my head.

"Still, you shouldn't let your guard down just because a Master is or can be a woman." said Mirai-senpai, "You should at least be able to fight back if worse comes to worst."

"Right." I said, "I'll keep that in mind."

"Good." Mirai-senpai nodded, before she asked, "By the way, do you wish to know anything else before we part ways?"

I looked at Mirai-senpai and thought for a moment. Well, there is one thing I do wanna know, about Mirai-senpai. I then asked, "Just one more thing, do you…have anything besides magecraft, like a…special superpower or something that involves magic and all that?"

Mirai-senpai looked at me curiously for a moment, before she realized, "Ahh, I see what this is about. You still have some doubts about magecraft and the mage world's existence, don't you?"

Hearing what she said what I was thinking, her friends and even Saber was looking at me curiously.

"Well, I mean…yeah, a little…" I admitted, "It's just…uh…it's still kinda hard to believe that magic is still real and all, that it's still existing and nobody even knows it. I mean, don't get me wrong, magic is great and all, but…well, after today, I'm not entirely sure if I should believe that magic really IS real and not just some made-up tricks and all that."

"I see." said Saber, "So, in other words, you wish to see with your own eyes that everything hidden from the world is real and not a fantasy, to clear away your doubts."

"Yeah, something like that." I said to Saber, before I said to Mirai-senpai, "Sorry if I'm doubting you guys and all that."

"No, not at all." said Mirai-senpai, "You have the right to doubt whether magecraft and the mage world are truly real or not. It's only natural for those outside of the mage world such as yourself to think as such. Therefore, I will tell you what I have to clear your doubts."

"Really?" I asked.

Mirai-senpai nodded and said, "Now firstly, I'm sure you are aware of the rumors about me in Homurahara Academy?"

"Rumors?" I thought, confused. But then, I realized what she meant and said, "O-Oh, yeah! Of course! About you being known to the school as "The Eyes of Fortune" as you've been known to giving fortunes about what would happen to people's lives much sooner or later or even any future events that may happen to them should they want to have it come true or if they want to be careful, and whatever fortunes that you make, it all somehow comes true for everyone; some were good and some were bad, and the bad ones were the ones that many tried to avoid as much as possible. I heard that you know lots of stuff as if you've foreseen what might happen to people in any events sooner or later and that you would send your members of the student council to either make it happen or to prevent it from happening."

"Correct." said Mirai-senpai, before she placed her hand next to her eye and answered, "Well, that's because it's the result of my magical eyes, or as it is called, The Mystic Eyes of Precognition and Retrocognition."

"The Mystic Eyes…of Precognition…and Retrocognition?" I asked.

"Correct." said Mirai-senpai, "And as you can see and guess, my Mystic Eyes allows me to see both the future and the past, whether it is a person or a certain event, anything that had happened or will happen. My eyes shine the color of bright blue whenever I foresee the future, and then it becomes the color of bright red whenever I foresee the past. It was…a gift, you could say, that I was born with for a very long time."

"I see." I said.

"So, then, do you wish to have your fortune told for what will happen tomorrow?" Mirai-senpai asked, "I used to do fortune-telling when I was a child, so if you wish, then allow me to have your fortune told."

I thought about it for a moment. Well, I guess it wouldn't hurt to have something told about what happens to me. Plus, I am curious about my future for what will happen tomorrow. And besides, I did say I wanna clear my doubts about the mage world and all so…

"Yes, please." I answered, "I'd like to know what happens tomorrow."

Mirai-senpai nodded and said, "Very well, then. Let's begin."

Mirai-senpai then closed her eyes to concentrate, before she slowly began to open them wide as her eyes began to glow is bright blue light, shocking me and amazing me.

"Whoa…!" I said, amazed, "This is…incredible…!"

"What you are seeing is Lady Mirai predicting your future, Shindou-sama." said Aimi, standing next to me, "As you can see, this is the power of her Mystic Eyes, the eyes that can see both the past and the future. Once she finishes predicting your future, what will happen next will depend on you."

"I see." I said. Judging from her friends' lack of surprise, I guess they must've seen her do that a dozen times.

I turned back to Mirai-senpai as she closed her eyes, before opening them to reveal her eyes were normal again. I guess it looks like she was done seeing my future and is ready to tell my fortune.

"Now, then," she said to me, "Are you ready?"

I nodded to her, signaling that I was ready.

"Very well, then." Mirai-senpai nodded, before she took a deep breath, and began to say my fortune, "On the very beginning of the special morning day, a new arrival will come to appear to this very small island from a faraway land. This new arrival is one from the very distant memory in your heart, as this one arrival is very special. On that special day, you will receive a very special gift, one that you yourself would never come to expect. On the same following day, without you yourself knowing, you will be brought into a very unexpected incident by accident, one that involves the special arrival, where it will lead you to become the target of attention by many. Throughout the rest of the day, you will become the center of attention due to those followings." After that, she finished by saying, "That is all. The rest…will be all up to you."

I nodded to every fortune word that she said to me before I nodded a final time and said, "Okay, thanks."

Mirai-senpai nodded and said with a smile, "Best of luck to you. You'll need it."

After saying her last words to me, she turned to her bodyguards who she nodded to, and they bowed to her before she began to walk away with those two following her.

Aimi, being an elegant maid, stepped away from me and bowed to me, before she smiled and said, "Fare thee well, Shindou-sama. May Lady Luck favor you on your battles." She then bowed to me again before turning away and began to follow her mistress and her bodyguards, leaving me to watch them go.

I then turned to Saber and said, "So, uh…shall we head back?"

Saber simply nodded to me. We then began to walk on our way back home.

---

We returned to the apartment complex where my apartment room is. I then unlocked my apartment door and opened it.

I stepped back to let Saber in and said, "C'mon in."

Saber nodded and went inside before I went in last and locked the door.

"Sorry about this place. It's uh…not exactly the greatest place to stay in, but, uh…at least it's a good place to live. I just cleaned out my room recently, so there's plenty of space around here for you to use. The others…well, not so much."

"I see." said Saber, as she removed her disguise, "If I may ask, are you the only one living here?"

"Yeah, I'm the only resident here." I said, "This place hasn't really been used for a long time since not many people live in this place anymore, because people say that it's more like a dump now. Basically, it's like a complete mess."

"Why not ask to clean it then?" Saber asked.

"I did." I said while scratching the back of my head, "But, unfortunately, nobody even works here anymore either, since the apartment manager is heavily sick and was sent to the hospital for that reason, and the only one left to watch over the complex until he fully recovers is his niece, Yukitsuki Hisakawa-san, and there was no one else in their family that would come over and help due to their work and stuff, not even her parents since they were away by the sea. Basically, this apartment is stuck like this until he comes back."

"I see." said Saber.

"So, yeah, sorry about that." I said, "We're just gonna have to make do with what we have right now. Sorry."

"No need to apologize." said Saber, "As a Servant, I have no reason to mind this place. If such a place is suited to my Master, then it is most suited for me as well."

"I see." I said, "Well, that's good I guess." Then, a thought came to me and I said, "Oh, yeah. Speaking of, aren't Servants supposed to be spiritual beings of heroes or something? If Servants are technically spirits, they can change into spiritual forms whenever they want to, right? If Assassin and Berserker can do it, then shouldn't you be able to do it, too? I mean, not to offend you or anything, but technically, you are dead, so it shouldn't really be a problem, right?"

Saber was completely silent for a moment, before she answered, "Yes, that is correct…or so I'd like to say."

"Hmm?" I said, confused.

"However, that is not exactly the case for me entirely." said Saber, "As you said, we are spiritual beings that are tied to our history as heroes or important figures, whether it is fictional, mythical, or historical. When heroes or important figures die, or whatever anything important that ties to their legends gets left behind by them or anyone else related to them to this world, they are freed from the constraints of time itself and removed from the ring of reincarnation, and then are recorded into the Throne of Heroes, a place existing outside of both the World and the time axis. When summoned into the Holy Grail War, Heroic Spirits become what you know as Servants. However, while the Servants are spiritual beings, they are also copies of the "true bodies" of the Heroic Spirits. In other words, despite what Heroic Spirits the Servants take form of, they're not exactly real, just spirits that are based on the Heroic Spirits."

"I see." I said, "But then, shouldn't it be the same case for you?"

"Unfortunately, no." said Saber, "And yes, while it should be the same for me as any other Servants, it is not, however, the same case for me. You could say I'm…an exception to all of that. You see, in life, I made a pact with the World as I was on the verge of death that will require me to become a Counter Guardian, a sub-category of a Heroic Spirit at the service of the World, and I was given an offer to continue living in exchange to become a Heroic Spirit. In other words, while Heroic Spirits are those who have been removed from the time axis and placed onto the Throne of Heroes, I am still considered to be living. These pacts are normally done by those requiring the power beyond ordinary humans to become heroes during their lifetimes, but my wish instead came at the time of my death because I did not require support to become a hero."

"So, in other words, you are dead, but at the same time, you're not." I said.

"Yes, you could say that, in a way." said Saber, "Due to the fact that I could not obtain the Holy Grail during my lifetime, I could not stand not having it in my final moments when a wish appeared that I need to be granted. I could not complete the search for it, so I asked the World to allow me to obtain the Holy Grail while I still lived. I will not die until I obtain the Holy Grail, also meaning that the hero that I am of my time cannot die. I should be dead according to the timeline, but the contract cannot be fulfilled if that is true. Time is stopped for me at the moment of death, so you can say that I'm stopped in time rather than that time itself is stopped. The flow of time doesn't care that I've stopped, so it keeps flowing into the present without any issues. While I am not truly a Heroic Spirit, I can still be summoned as one because as long as I continue to seek the Holy Grail, it is evident that I will eventually become a complete Heroic Spirit. The result of obtaining the Holy Grail and fulfilling the contract are already determined, so I have an infinite amount of chances to claim it. This also allows me to be summoned into many ages even without being outside of time and before I become a Heroic Spirit due to the condition that me becoming one is already determined."

"Okay." I said, "So, in other words, as long as your part of the contract, or unless you obtain the Holy Grail, you'll be stuck like this the way you are forever."

"That is right." said Saber.

"But what happens if you do obtain it, or fail to obtain it?" I asked, "What will happen to you as a Servant? Won't it affect you in any way bad, like your memories?"

"No, not entirely." said Saber, "Went Servants die, their memories become recorded and be brought into the Throne of Heroes along with the defeated Heroic Spirits. You could say that their memories would become records in books for a library of some sort. And, even if the same Servants are summoned again, but into another different Holy Grail Wars, their memories of the previous Holy Grail Wars will not resurface along with them. Even if the previous Masters of those Servants, if they are still alive, recognizes them and remembers them, the Servants will not."

"I see." I said, "But, that's not the case for you, is it?"

Saber nodded and said, "While Heroic Spirits summoned as Servants are all copies of the "true body" stored in the Throne of Heroes, I, however, have yet to reach that rank. I am instead called in the form of "myself about to die." This makes my current incarnation unique among Servants because I'm called from within the time axis rather than being copied from outside of the concept of time. I can jump forward or backward in time from the moment of my death and return to that moment upon obtaining or failing to obtain the Grail. Should I claim it, my time will flow again, and I will die just as history has recorded. Should I fail, all my memories are returned to my physical body, and I can either continue my search for the Grail or cancel the contract should I find a reason to. Because I have not actually died, I am classified as a living being despite being handled differently as a Servant. This also allows me to keep all memories of my search for the Grail unlike Heroic Spirits that don't allow for any inconsistencies in their memories. Servants would normally not have any memories if they happened to be summoned in two different Grail Wars, while I completely retain all of my memories. For example, my memories of all of the happenings of the Fourth Holy Grail War."

"Really?" I said amazed, "That's… really surprising, to be honest! Also, I didn't know that you were a part of the Fourth Holy Grail War. Then, if that's the case, do you…maybe like know the conclusion of it, what happened at the end of the Fourth Holy Grail War?"

Saber sighed in disappointment before she shook her head and said, "Unfortunately, no. I was…I suppose you could say, already removed, by my last Master, from that Holy Grail War before I could even find out what happened at the end. I'm afraid the only last thing that I remember was that I was betrayed by him as he forced me to destroy the Grail via the Command Seals."

"Oh…" I said, "I'm…sorry to hear that."

"No, don't be." said Saber with a small smile, "It is only natural for Masters to force their Servants to comply with their orders using their Command Seals, if and whenever deemed necessary. Of course, my previous Master during the Fourth Holy Grail War was no exception." She then frowned a little and said, "However, what he did…it truly was unforgivable. Whatever the reasons why he forced me to do so, even I do not know myself."

"Still," I said, "He really didn't have to do that. If there was a reason why he forced you, then shouldn't you have asked why before you could do what he says?"

"Unfortunately, it was not that simple." said Saber, "My previous Master was…complicated, you might say, and he and I never truly interacted with one another, as he only sees me as a tool rather than a person."

"So, then, you two don't really get along?" I asked.

Saber sighed and said sadly, "He and I would never get along as Master and Servant, even if we tried to."

"I see…" I said. I guess, it must be that hard for them. I guess her Master isn't the type who'd like to form a relationship with his own Servant.

"So," I said, trying to cheer her up, "Was there at least some good things you liked about him? Anything good at all? I mean, there's gotta be some good things about him, right?"

Saber looked at me curiously, before she thought about it for a moment. She then made a small smile and said, "Yes, actually, there was one thing I do like about him. I liked the fact that he loved and cared deeply about his family, both his wife and daughter, so much so that he would do anything to protect them both, always there to keep his wife loved and happy, and give his daughter a perfect future. In fact, his wife was the one who showed me that."

"Wow." I said, "Well, then he must've done some good to at least try to make the world a better place for them."

Saber nodded and said, "Yes, I suppose you could say that."

I nodded and said, "Well, at least that's good."

"Yes." said Saber, "At least, until the end…"

We remained silent for a moment to at least let it pass, before I said, breaking the silence, "Speaking of Masters, you wouldn't happen to have been a part of the Fifth Holy Grail War, would you? If you did, then do you know who your Master was in that Holy Grail War?"

"Hmmm…" said Saber, thinking for a moment, "…Yes, come to think of it, I have participated in the Fifth War. I believe it was…uh…huh?" Her expression became shocked for a moment before she said confusedly, "W-Wait…what?!"

"Huh?" I said, confused, "Uh…Saber? Is something wrong?"

"I-It's…strange…" said Saber, while placing her hand on her head, "I…can't seem to remember…what happened during the Fifth Holy Grail War."

"Huh?!" I said, even more confused, "W-Wait, hold on, what do you mean?! Shouldn't you be able to have all of the memories of the last Grail Wars like you said?!"

"…Yes, normally, I would not have any problems in remembering the other Holy Grail Wars," said Saber, "However, this…seems to be different. My memories about the Fifth War…it seemed as though it was either removed from my memory as a whole or completely altered, or…perhaps even blocked away from my mind. It's as if…my memories have become a complete jumble, like a giant mess. All of my memories of the Fifth War… are all but completely hazy like a fog."

"No way…" I said, shocked, "So, then, does that mean you can't and won't be able to remember anything about the Fifth Holy Grail War?"

"Well, not entirely." said Saber, while putting her hand down, "I can at least remember a few things…but even that is completely hazy, and unless if it's still there, I cannot completely remember those few things. And beyond the rest, I'm afraid not."

"I see." I said. I then thought to myself, "I wonder if…it had something to do with me summoning you wrong, or me not being a mage at all?"

"No." said Saber, as if reading my mind, "Rest assured that you not being a mage, nor your imperfect summoning has anything to do with it. Even if it did, I would've already seen and known about it."

"H-Huh?!" I said, surprised, "W-W-Wait, I didn't even say anything! Wait, did you…like read my mind or something?"

Saber chuckled a little and said, "Something like that, you could say. Masters and Servants are bound together by a pact, and because of this pact, whenever Masters are thinking of something, or whatever the Masters are feeling, Servants can feel and understand the Masters' thoughts and feelings. In other words, whatever you think or feel, I can feel them through our pact, whether you are a mage or not."

"Oh, I see." I said, amazed, "Oh, that's right! You mentioned our pact had been sealed! Which means…"

"Correct." said Saber, "You and I are bound together. With this pact, our fates are now intertwined together. You and I are connected through this pact of ours. So, if you die as a Master, then I will die as well without mana to feed."

"I see." I said, "Mana…that's right, your spirits, after all, so you need mana for energy supply, right?"

"That's right." said Saber, "Servants need mana to be able to maintain in this world, and Masters who're mages provide mana for Servants to feed on in order for Servants to maintain their physical form. Only mages of higher classes such as the Master of Assassin, the Tohsaka heiress, Mirai, can provide such mana, more so enough for Servants to even be able to last. However, if a Servant is summoned by a Master who is a non-mage, then that would cause trouble for said Servant, and the only way for Servants to gain more power is to feed on human souls, if and when it is necessary."

"Feed on human souls?" I said, "You mean, eat on human conscious for food to survive or something?"

"Yes." said Saber, "But only if it is necessary. However, rest assured, I would not come to such a horrific strategy should such a thing come to pass."

"Oh, okay." I said, a little relieved, "But…aren't I a non-mage? Wouldn't that cause difficulty for you?"

"Hmmm." Saber thought for a moment, before she said, "Yes, normally, that would be the case. However, it would seem that it is not the case for you."

"Huh?" I said, confused, "What do you mean?"

"Master," said Saber, "My mana feed from you appears to be very decent. You seem to have about just a decent enough amount of mana for me to feed on, despite not being a mage. Not exactly great, but just about good enough for me to be able to fight against a Servant."

"Huh?" I said, confused, "Really? I do?"

Saber nodded and said, "It is as Mirai said, you have potential. Perhaps even much so to even become a mage yourself. You may not realize it now, but I'm sure that in time, you will come to see it. And I have no doubt that when that day comes, you will become a powerful mage."

I looked at Saber for a moment, taking my time to take it all in. I then laughed a little and said, "Yeah, sorry. It's…uh…gonna be a lot for me to believe that. And…I don't really think so. There's like no way I can be a mage." I then looked at Saber and asked, "I mean, are you…really sure you're okay with me? I mean, I don't really have anything special. I'm just a normal guy."

Saber saw the doubts that I had on my face, as she gave a reassuring smile and said, "Mage or no mage, I have already accepted you as my Master. As I've said to you before, my sword will be at your side. Your fate is now my fate, and our pact is completely sealed. So, I will follow you as your Servant wherever you go, because you are my Master, and I am yours to command in battle however you wish. With all my power, I will protect you, Master."

Wow! I was…awestruck by her speech…of her accepting me, a normal guy, being her Master. I guess…she's really fine with me. Well, then…if she accepts me to be her Master, then…I'll accept her as my Servant. Yeah, that's what I'll do. It's better that I return her acceptance.

I smiled and said, "Thanks, Saber. If you're really okay with me, then I'm okay, too. And…I'll accept you as my Servant. And besides, looking at you, really remind me of someone from my childhood."

"I see." said Saber, "Well then, I thank you for accepting me, Master."

"Oh, right, uh…you don't have to call me Master." I said, "I do have a name. My name is Yuzuru Shindou. But, uh…if you want, you can just call me Yuzuru."

"Oh, I see." Saber realized, "Very well, then." She then brought out her hand to shake and said, "I look forward to working alongside you, Yuzuru."

I smiled as I brought out my hand and shook hers and said, "Same here, let's work together, Saber."

We looked at each other and gave each other smiles. Well, this was gonna be the beginning. We stayed where we were for a moment before we nodded to each other and let go.

I then sighed and said, "Well, I guess we'll end things here for now. For the time being, we should probably get you something to wear, something suited for a girl."

"Hmm?" said Saber, confused, "What's wrong with what I'm wearing?"

"Nothing wrong." I said, "It's just…we need to put you into something that'll work as a disguise, since you can't go into spiritual form, and if you stay the way you are wearing that, you're only going to draw attention to people."

"I see." said Saber, "Well, I suppose you do have a point."

"And besides," I added, "You do kinda look like a girl."

Saber glared at me a little and said, "I'd prefer it if you did not mock me that way, just because I'm a woman. I have no concern for my gender whatsoever."

"H-Huh?!" I said, "O-Oh, uh…s-sorry! It's just…you uh…"

Saber kept glaring at me for a moment, before she sighed and said, "No, I should apologize. I'm…not really used to being called a woman. I suppose you could say I spent most of my life living as a man."

"O-Oh, I see." I said, "Well, still, sorry about that."

"No, don't be." said Saber, "Though, you're right. I should wear something that is…more appropriate for this era. Do you have any clothing I could use?"

I took my time to think about it for a moment. Then, with a thought, I said, "Well, actually, there is one clothes you can use."

---

After some thorough searching through my closet, I managed to get Saber some modern clothing that she could wear outside in public. The clothes that I provided her were…well, a black suit. It was a suit that I would use to wear for parties for rich people or for charity concerts.

"Sorry, Saber." I said, apologetically, "This is all the clothes that I could give you to wear for the time being. It's probably uncomfortable for you since it's man's clothing."

"No, not at all, Yuzuru." Saber reassured, "I actually find this suit very comfortable for me to wear and I find it to be a better disguise than any. Besides, I'm used to being dressed as a man."

"Really?" I said, somewhat weirded out, "What kind of time period are you from that makes you wear man's clothing?"

Saber chuckled at my reaction and answered, "Let's just say a complicated one. You shouldn't worry about it, though."

"Oh…okay." I said.

"Shindou-kun?" I heard, "Are you home?"

"Oh!" I recognized the voice, "Yukitsuki-san! Uh, yeah, uh…I'm back! Just, uh…give me a minute!"

I then went through some of my stuff until I found a bandage before I then wrapped my left hand that had the Command Seals on it to cover it. After I was through with the bandages, I then went to the bathroom to change my clothes. Before I began to change, I poked my head out and told Saber, "Saber, wait outside for me while I change. I need to introduce you to my friend for a minute."

Saber looked at me for a moment before she nodded and said, "As you wish, Master." She then went out the door to wait for me, and I went to change my clothes.

After I was done changing to my casual clothes, which were a simple black shirt and gray sweat pants, I stopped to take a look at my school uniform, which was covered in bloodstains and rips, and tears from what had happened last night with Berserker. Thinking back, it was…really scary as hell. Just the thought of what could've happened had I not made it out just…gives me the cold shivers. Man, I really don't wanna think about that.

I sighed and said, "Well, I guess I'm gonna need a new uniform…"

I then picked up my torn of bloodstained uniform before I threw it away in the trash. I really don't want anyone to see that, not even Yukitsuki-san. Knowing her, she'll be worried about me for dear life to no end. Yeah…I guess I should keep what happened this night a secret. I then went out of the bathroom and went out to the door where Saber was standing at waiting for me. I looked at her and she nodded, and we then went to go see Yukitsuki-san.

We found our way to her place, and before I could let myself in, I knocked on the door and said, "Hey, Yukitsuki-san, before I come in, I need to tell you we have a visitor!"

---

Me, Saber, and Yukitsuki-san were sitting at her table in her living room while we're having some tea. We were quiet for a moment before I said, "So, anyway, this is our new member of our residence in our apartment complex…at least just for a while. Oh, uh…before that, and just to avoid confusion because of the clothes, she's uh…actually a girl. Anyway, she moved here from another country to live here for some, uh…business. It's uh…a complicated one."

"I see." said Yukitsuki-san, "Shindou-kun, may I ask what her name is and where she's from?"

"Huh?" I said before I realized and said nervously, "O-Oh! Uh…w-well, uh…I-I uh…"

Oh, crap! I really didn't think about that! Oh, dammit, what do I say?! What do I even call her?! Dammit, I can't just tell Yukitsuki-san her name is Saber! That'd be freakin' weird! What on earth should I call her?!

N-No, wait! Okay, calm down. Calm down. Just…calm down and think. Just think…calmly. Relax…okay. Now, then…

I mentally calmed myself down, before I took a look at Saber for a moment.

"Okay…" I thought as I continued looking at her, "Now, judging by her appearance…I can only assume that she is…an English woman. Okay, good, an English woman. Aaaaand if she's an English woman, then…that would mean that…she's…from England. Okay, good. England it is. And if she's from England, then…she should be called…" I thought long and hard about what I should call Saber for a moment, probably for about a long quiet time…until finally, a name came to me, and I said, "Elaina. Her name is Elaina Scott Hemsworth, and she's from England."

"Oh?" said Yukitsuki-san, surprised, "Really? So, then she's a foreigner."

"Uh…yeah, that's right." I said, nervously, "And Elaina came here to…uh…do some business…as a…a-a-an exchange student!"

"R-Really?!" said Yukitsuki-san, surprised, "So then, she's here to study? To…be in…our school?"

"Uh…yeah, that's right!" I said, nervously, "Well, you see…uh…h-her family wanted her to travel to Japan, so that she could learn about some uh…o-of our foreign culture! Yeah, that's right! And, uh…she…wants to have a look around Japan and…learn about some stuff, s-so that she could uh…could uh…c-could help her…family…on her…f-f-family business! Yeah, that's right! Uh…something like that."

"Ohh, I see!" said Yukitsuki-san, amazed, "Wow, I really didn't know that!"

"Y-Yeah!" I said, nervously, "Well, uh…neither did I, at first. S-See…we uh…h-happened to have met by chance while I was walking on my way home! And she was the one who told me why she came here!"

"Wow!" said Yukitsuki-san, even more amazed, "I really didn't know you two met that way!" She then smiled and added, "If that's the case, then it must've been fate that you two ran into each other like that!"

"H-H-Huh?!" I said, confused before I realized what she meant, and said nervously, "O-O-Oh! U-U-Uh…y-yeah! Yeah! Uh…must be! Ehehe…yeah. Yeah."

I then laughed nervously before I became completely while awkwardly silent. I looked to see that Saber was completely calm and quiet, showing no reactions about my obvious lies at all whatsoever. Although, I think I could see in her eyes that she was just as surprised about what I said to Yukitsuki-san about her as she was.

I then looked to see Yukitsuki-san got up from sitting down and went to meet our new friend who is "Elaina". Yukitsuki-san then smiled as she spoke in English to her, [Hello, Mrs. Hemsworth. It's very nice to meet you. My name is Yukitsuki Hisakawa. I welcome you to our country.]

Saber was quiet for a moment, unsure if she should go along with it, as she looked at me, her expression asking me if she should go along with it. I smiled and nodded, signaling her to do so. Saber saw this and returned her smile and nod, before she got up from her seat to turn to Yukitsuki-san and said in English, [Yes, it is likewise very nice to meet you as well. I am Elaina Scott Hemsworth. I thank you for welcoming me. Oh, and um…please, call me Elaina.]

[Oh, yes, of course!] said Yukitsuki-san in English, [So, Mrs. Elaina, is it true that you came to our country to study in Japan on behalf of your family back in England?]

[Ah, yes.] said Saber in English, [It is just as I've told Yuzuru about my circumstances. I've come here as an exchange student to study many things about Japan on behalf of my family back in my home country. It is for a family business that I'm doing with my family at home.]

[Ah, I see.] said Yukitsuki-san in English, [That is amazing! Your family must be very good.]

Saber smiled and said in English, [Yes, of course. It is…good business. And…well, I love to learn about your country's culture.]

[Then, Mrs. Elaina,] said Yukitsuki-san in English, [Can you…um…by any chance, speak Japanese?]

Saber smiled at Yukitsuki-san, before she cleared her throat, and then said to her in Japanese, "Yes, I can speak Japanese very well."

Yukitsuki-san gasped, eyes wide in a happy surprise, before she said in Japanese, "Wow! That's awesome! You're amazing, Elaina-san."

"Ah, no, not at all." said Saber, somewhat sheepishly, "It's just…something that came natural after studying some languages back in my country. You could say it was…a thankful gift that I had given to me by my parents since birth. Otherwise, it would've been very troublesome."

"I see." said Yukitsuki-san, amazed, "Well, in any case, that's great! That would mean we'll be having two exchange students!"

Hmm? Wait, two? Hearing that caught my attention.

"Two?" I said, confused, "What do you mean "two exchange students"?"

"Hmm?" said Yukitsuki-san, "You didn't hear back in our class?"

"Uh…no." I said, even more confused, "Hear what?"

Then, as if she remembered, she laughed and said, "O-Oh, yeah! That's right! I completely forgot! You were asleep back in class, so you couldn't hear what Emilia-sensei announced!"

I grumbled at hearing her mentioning about what had happened that morning, before I asked, "What was the announcement?"

"Oh, right, sorry." Yukitsuki-san laughed, before she answered, "Anyway, Emilia-sensei announced that we'll be having an international exchange student from another country. He said she'll be coming over to Fuyuki and will be studying in our school, and in our class. Apparently, she's from somewhere in Europe, so she's a foreigner like Elaina, and she happens to be coming here tomorrow to introduce herself."

"A foreigner from another country…" I said, "And she's an international…" Wait a second. A foreigner…from another country…wait…it sounds like…

I looked at Saber who she gave me the same look of realization as I was.

Yukitsuki-san looked at us confusedly and asked, "Is something wrong?"

We both snapped out of it, and I said, "O-Oh, no, it's nothing. I just, uh…kinda remembered something, that's all."

"Oh, okay." said Yukitsuki-san. She then looked at my left hand and said worriedly, "Hey, um…what happened to your hand? Is it okay?"

"Oh, this?" I said, lifting my bandaged hand, "Yeah, it's okay. I just, uh…I accidentally burned my hand while I was cooking for our new welcomed guest. Don't worry, though, it's nothing serious."

"Oh, I see." said Yukitsuki-san, "Well, okay then, if you say so."

"Well, anyway, we gotta get some sleep." I said, as I got up, "We'll be going to school first thing in the morning."

"Right." said Yukitsuki-san, as she got up while holding the empty tea cups, "Well, then, goodnight."

"Oh, uh…Yukitsuki-san?" I said.

"Yeah?" said Yukitsuki-san, "What is it?"

"Uh…if you don't mind me asking, do you happen to have any spare school uniforms that I could wear?" I asked, "Sorry, I had mine accidentally torn off while I stayed behind at school."

"Oh, really?" said Yukitsuki-san, surprised, "Uh…sure. I have extra pairs of uniforms for you along with mine, in case you need them. I had already asked the school for permission for them in case we lose ours. But, uh…why do you ask? And what happened to your old one?"

"Oh, just wondering." I said, "And, about my uniform…well, let's just say some accidents happened, and well…"

"I see." said Yukitsuki-san, "Well, anyway, sure. I'll get you your new uniform first thing in the morning."

"Great." I smiled, "Thanks."

She nodded and returned her smile, before she then turned to Saber and asked, "Do you need some, too, Elaina-san?"

"Oh, no, I'm fine." said Saber politely, "I'm fine with the clothes I'm wearing."

"Oh, okay." said Yukitsuki-san, "Well, anyway, goodnight to both of you."

"Yeah." I nodded, as me and Saber began to leave, "Goodnight."

After we left Yukitsuki-san and went back to my room, I turned to Saber and asked, "Saber, do you think that…?"

"Yes, I believe so." said Saber, "It is just as Mirai had foretold to you. "On the very beginning of the special morning day, a new arrival will come to appear to this very small island from a faraway land." I believe that is what she said."

"Yeah…" I said.

"Master," said Saber, "After what Mirai had told you, what do you think you should make of this? And who do you believe this "new arrival" is?"

"Well, I don't know." I said, "But, whoever she is, I think this international exchange student must be important. And…about what Mirai-senpai told me, I think I should just go along with it until I figure out what all her words said to me means, and then…maybe I'll believe them. I'll believe that mages are real."

"I see." said Saber.

"Until then, we should rest for tomorrow." I said.

"Indeed." said Saber, "Perhaps rest will do us some good for now."

"Yeah." I said, "Goodnight, Saber."

Before I could go to bed, Saber stopped me by asking, "Ah, Yuzuru, can I ask you something?"

I turned to her and asked, "Yeah, what is it?"

"Why did you introduce me to Yukitsuki just out in the open like that?" Saber asked, "Those outside of the Holy Grail War should not learn about nor be involved into the Holy Grail War. Otherwise, if we did so, it would've brought them to their own doom. And although I'm relieved that you did not introduce me to Yukitsuki by my class name nor reveal me to her as a Servant, it doesn't change the fact that it would risk putting her in danger."

"Really?" I said, surprised, "You mean, just like what happened to me before I summoned you?"

Saber nodded at my answer.

"Oh, I…didn't know that." I said, before I answered, "Well, I just thought that it'd be a good idea to introduce you to people, and at least have them get to know you a little bit. I mean, even though what I said about you was a lie, I still think that you should at least interact with people. Don't get me wrong, I have no intention of involving people into the mage world or the Holy Grail War, but I think that since you'll be around for a while, and since you can't go into spiritual form, I thought I'd might as well bring you out and have people learn about you. Not as a Servant, obviously, but as you, your own person."

"I see." Saber nodded, seeing my point.

"And besides," I added, "Even if I did try to hide you from everyone else, they'd probably find out and catch you from your hiding spot, eventually."

"Ahh." said Saber, "Yes, I suppose you have a point."

"Yeah." I said.

"Well, at least you were honest, and you were very careful with your words to Yukitsuki." said Saber, "Still, you must be very cautious of what you do or say. Otherwise, and even if they are not Masters, it would put them all in grave danger. As long as they're not involved with us in the Grail War, they're lives are safe."

I nodded and said, "Right. Don't worry, I'll be careful."

Saber nodded and said, "Good."

I then began to yawn, before I said tiredly, "Well, then, I think I should get some sleep. You should, too, Saber."

"Of course." Saber nodded, "I'll do that."

"Well," I said, as I began to head to bed, "Goodnight, Saber."

"Yes." said Saber, "Goodnight, Yuzuru."

---

Mirai's POV:

I was sitting on my couch having some tea that Aimi had served me. Everyone around me was quiet, even Assassin who was leaning against the wall. It seems that they're thinking about something.

I placed my teacup down and said, "You each have something in mind, I take it. Go ahead, speak your minds."

They looked at me with surprised looks on their faces, before Aimi asked, "W-Whatever do you mean, milady?"

"Well," I said, "Ever since our friend Yuzuru had summoned Saber and we told him everything about the mage world and the Holy Grail War, all of you have been awfully quiet. You seem to have some thoughts regarding about the boy, yet you would not tell me of it. Perhaps, you are afraid of how I would react to your answers."

Hearing what I had said to them, they all began to look down, except for Assassin, as if they were all in shame to what they were about to say to me. I sighed and said, "If any of you have something on your mind, let it out. I'm listening."

Unfortunately, my long-time companions stayed quiet, as if refusing to speak up.

I then turned to my Servant and asked, "Assassin?"

Assassin sighed and said, "Very well." He got off from the wall and said, "That boy…he shouldn't be a part of this. And Saber should not have fallen into his hands."

My three companions winched as if they were afraid that I would give out an angry reaction. I, however, gave out no reaction, as I remained calm and collective.

"I see." I said, calmly, before I turned to Aimi and asked, "Is that true, Aimi? Do you and the others think that way as well? Tell me."

Aimi nervously looked at Sayaka and Hiroko, who were just as nervous as she was before she sighed and answered, "Yes, Ojou-sama, sadly."

"And your reasons?" I asked.

"Well," said Aimi, "It is because…well, Shindou-sama has absolutely no experience in fighting in death, nor does he have any skills or talents to use for survival. Also, he has absolutely no Magecraft that he could use to have an advantage. And, in my fair opinion, I believe that it would be best that he would remain in his normal daily life and be placed in a shelter to be safe."

"Is that so?" I asked.

"It is, milady." said Hiroko, "And that boy has no right to become a Master, let alone a Master of Saber, the most powerful class of all Servants. If he's not a talented nor a first-rate mage, then he's absolutely not worthy of Saber."

"That's right, Ojou-sama." said Sayaka, "Besides, he'd just get in a way of the fight and slow Saber, or even us, down."

"I see." I said, "So, those are your doubts. Well, I can't argue with any of you with that."

"Milady…" said Aimi.

"However," I said, "As I've said, he is necessary, for us and for Saber. Believe it or not, he actually has potential. Not just as a Master, but also has the potential to become a mage, if he so desires to. Even he doesn't realize it yet, but he will eventually."

"Well, perhaps," said Hiroko, "But-"

"No buts." I said, cutting Hiroko off, and they became silent. I then took a sip of my tea before I suggested, "If you still have doubts about him being Saber's Master and being a mage, then how about…try testing him?"

"Hmm?" they all said, surprised, "Test?"

"Yes." I said with a smirk, "Test him to see if he's worthy of being a Master of Saber. Have him prove that he has what it takes to fight. Let him show you that he can face any challenges that await him. Test him to see if he is worthy if he is worth becoming a mage."

"Make him prove…?" said Hiroko.

"To see if…" said Sayaka.

"He is worthy…?" said Aimi.

"Yes." I said as I began to take another sip of my tea, "And, if he proves that he's more than worthy enough to be a part of this fight, then we will have him join us. We will be in an alliance to fight against the other Masters and Servants, and we will fight together and help train him to become a mage like us until the Holy Grail War comes to an end." I then looked at my companions and asked, "Well, will you three test him?"

Sayaka, Hiroko, and Aimi looked at each other, thinking about what I had suggested to them before they looked back at me and Hiroko asked, "If…that is what you wish, milady."

"Consider it an order." I said.

They looked at each other again, before they nodded to each other, and they looked back at me and said as they bowed, "As you wish, Ojou-sama."

"We'll see that if he's worthy enough to be Saber's Master and be part of our group." said Sayaka.

"If testing him will prove his worth, so be it." said Hiroko.

"If fighting him will make him prove to us and put us at ease, then we shall do so on your orders." said Aimi.

I nodded and said, "Good."

Assassin then came over to me and asked, "And…if he doesn't?"

"If not," I said, "Then, you may do what you believe is the best option." I then took one final sip of tea until my cup was empty and said as my Mystic Eyes glowed blue, "Kill him."

---

So, what do you guys think? Please, be sure to leave a review for me on what you guys think of the story! I hoped you all enjoyed it. Don't be shy and don't just read the story, REVIEW and tell me what are your thoughts of the story!