A/N: A belated Happy New Year to you all! Welcome to my first-ever update of 2016! Sorry for the long wait, everyone, but it was a slow winter break for me, and before I knew it, the new school semester started for me before I could get any real work done on any of my stories. Things got even slower as a result. Fortunately, I had enough time to finish this last part of the prologue to this fantastic story! After this, it's onto the actual Holy Grail war, at long last! HOORAY! :D

Now, ENJOY!

P.S.: Brace yourselves, everyone, for this will be quite a long chapter to read through! Hope you're all up for the extended reading!

Kotomine Church

Kirei silently entered the church and began walking down the aisle, past the rows of pews situated on both sides. It was currently daytime, and the entire church interior was bathed in golden light that could only be the proudest and purest of God's creations. His stomach squirmed uncomfortably once again at that thought.

It didn't help him any further, knowing that he was staring at a true servant of God at this very moment.

The teenage girl in question turned around to look at him, the golden light shining upon her and illuminating her very features. Her bright blonde hair blended in well with the magnificent light, and the white clothes she was wearing served to further magnify the heavily aura that surrounded her. She almost looked like an angel. Anyone in Kirei's position would instantly feel blessed to be in the presence of a beautiful person such as her, but the squirming wouldn't stop in Kirei's stomach, as much as he wanted it to. The best he could do was keep his dark and twisted thoughts at bay while he continued looking her with false admiration.

"Ruler," Kirei greeted, bowing his head courteously. "Good morning."

"Good morning, Kirei," replied Ruler. "How goes the visit to Tohsaka Manor?"

"Well. Itsuki Himuro is adjusting well to his surroundings, as limited as they may be. His training, however, is another story." Kirei felt a stronger impulse from the flaw within him, one that he still managed to suppress. "Tokiomi Tohsaka's expectations of him are unreasonably high. He continues to push the boy to his limits."

"Unfortunately, that sort of preparation is out of our reach. We cannot interfere with such proceedings if they don't interfere directly with the Holy Grail War itself."

"I agree." Kirei raised his head for a fraction of an inch. "So, Ruler...what do you think?"

"Of what?"

"Of the era you find yourself in? What is your opinion of it?"

"My opinion of the modern era... It confuses me, Kirei."

The brown-haired priest blinked. "Pardon me?"

Ruler turned her head and gazed out of the stained-glass window, her neutral expression softening.

She explained, "From what I have gathered using all of the informational material you and Father Risei have supplied me with, it appears this era is one of turmoil, full of confusion and lacking in understanding itself. More wars and battles have been waged across the lands, more people are driven by selfish and egotistical needs, and sin permeates the very environment. However, there is also love, cooperation, and understanding among individuals, in spite of the acts of hate, evil, and sin that occur all around them. Unfortunately, there are more and more people who are losing faith in our Lord in Heaven."

Ruler turned to look back at Kirei.

"That, in particular, saddens me the most about this era," she continued. "Very few seek the warmth and guidance of God now. I believe this is why this era has fallen into darkness and madness."

"That is true, unfortunately," replied Kirei. "More people rely on science rather than faith to get themselves along in life."

"I do not blame them for their fascination of science. I have read the books on the subject that you provided, and I believe I have a better understanding of this world. But science can only take an individual so far. Only the warmth and grace of God can show them the meaning of their lives."

Kirei pushed the dark thoughts back to the rearmost portion of his brain again.

"Of course," he said. "So, I take it that you're more dissatisfied with this era than satisfied?"

Ruler sighed heavily and shook her head. "To tell you the truth, Kirei, I do not know. With God as my witness, I do not know the answer. The people of this era are even more confusing than the subject you call mathematics."

Kirei smirked, recalling an incident where he provided Ruler with a textbook about basic mathematics. In no less than an hour after she stopped reading, the material rendered her dizzy for several hours. Understandably, she wasn't exposed to the subject during her lifetime, but to see her, a saint and a servant of God, reduced to such a state was a rather amusing sight, to say the least.

...

Realizing what he was thinking, Kirei pushed the thoughts back once again.

"Do not fret, Ruler," he said. "I believe that God will show these people the way once again. He has never forsaken a single person, no matter how bleak the situation."

"You're right, Kirei. The Lord has never forsaken anyone, nor will He ever forsake anyone."

Upon hearing those words, Kirei looked away from Ruler and stared upon the rows of pews. A dark emotion seemed to brew within his empty, emotionless brown eyes.

"By the way, Kirei," Ruler continued, pulling the priest back to reality, "the Spirit Board has activated again."

Kirei blinked in surprise. "So another Servant has been summoned already?"

"Yes. This would make it the third Servant to enter this world for the Impossible Holy Grail War. It is a Black Servant."

"What is the Servant's class?"

Einzbern Castle

Klaus Edelfelt stared out of the window, his entire line of sight bathed in the brightest, purest of white. The fierce snowstorm that greeted him when he stepped through the Einzberns' Bounded Field was no longer raging outside, allowing him a complete and unhindered view of the bare, frozen trunks of trees that surrounded the castle, coated with layers of snow. However, the endless sea of white wasn't what had his interest, and his preoccupation.

It was the sight on the snowy ground, where he could see the Magus Killer...Kiritsugu Emiya...following a little girl clad in a purple snow-coat and beret, and a white scarf and thick leggings. Her hair was as white as the snow that surrounded her, and her eyes were as red as blood. In fact, the girl bore a striking resemblance to...

"What's got your attention out there, Klaus?"

For the entirety of the week he had been spending in the Einzbern Castle, Irisviel von Einzbern was the only person he could talk to about matters that didn't concern the Holy Grail War. Every time he met with Jubstacheit and the other Black Masters already present in the castle, usually during formal matters like dinner, they would discuss preparations and strategies for the battles ahead. The Einzbern homunculi maids were of no entertainment value to him, for they were extremely limited in their responses and had off-putting monotone voices that wouldn't make any conversation engaging.

And the little girl, affectionately labeled Illyasviel, made socialization difficult for the Edelfelt Master, what with her constant attempts at catching his attention and her pleas to play games with her, games he had no luxury in playing. Not that he hated her for it; he was quite fond of children, but could never keep up with their energy. While he was on that thought, Klaus noted that Illyasviel reminded him a little of his niece, Luviagelita.

As for Kiritsugu Emiya himself, Klaus couldn't find an opportunity to talk to him at all, for he would never see him around in the castle. Encounters with the leader of the Black Faction proved to be surprisingly and strangely rare, something applied to not only Klaus but also the other Masters that congregated in the Einzberns' residence. In fact, this was the second time Klaus laid his eyes on the infamous Magus Killer ever since he stepped foot into the castle. The Edelfelt Master had a feeling in his gut that this was not a mere coincidence...

Back to the matter at hand, Klaus made another note that Irisviel had been the only person he could ever casually talk to in the Einzbern Castle.

Presently, Klaus turned to Irisviel, who was setting down a tray holding teacups.

"It's interesting," he said. "Your daughter and Emiya are playing outside."

"Ah," replied Irisviel, smiling in approval as she poured tea into one of the cups. "Are you surprised, Klaus?"

Klaus looked back towards the window, but by that point, Kiritsugu and Illyasviel had already vanished, likely having already moved on.

"I was under the impression that Emiya had a much colder heart than now. He is a freelance mercenary whose...services...are known through the world of mages. Years of killing people don't just fly over anyone without leaving a permanent imprint. I'm surprised he could look at a child in the eye and smile genuinely." His expression suddenly darkened considerably. "I wonder if that man had to look at a child in the eye before killing it."

Irisviel's posture stiffened, but she continued to pour tea into the second cup.

"I assume you still look down upon my husband for his reputation," she replied softly.

"I do not enjoy being in the company of people who kill for a living and then smile afterward."

Irisviel finished pouring the tea, to which she then began to pour cream into the cups. "I know Kiritsugu has done a number of terrible things, things that cannot be so easily forgiven. I know that much." She took a spoon and used it to stir the tea in both cups. "But I also know this, Klaus Edelfelt: no matter what actions my husband has done, he is severely misunderstood. And under his leadership, you will find yourself closer to attaining the Holy Grail. All you have to do is just trust him."

She stopped stirring, took one of the cups, and gave it to Klaus. He nodded to her in thanks, then blew at the steaming tea a couple of times. Once he was sure it had cooled down considerably, the Edelfelt Master contently took a sip of the liquid.

Once he lowered the cup from his lips, he replied, "But even if the Black Faction prevails over the White Faction, we will have to turn against each other next. There can only be one victor, and I can't simply take your word that Emiya is 'misunderstood'. How can I be sure to trust Emiya if he defeats me and claims the Grail for himself? What makes you think that his wish will benefit me andmywish?" He stuffed his hand into his pocket and pulled out the catalyst Irisviel gave him the previous day, the ancient-looking apple stem. "What makes you think he gave me a reliable Servant that could guide me to victory in the first phase of the War?"

Irisviel hesitated for a moment, looking doubtful. Klaus knew that the white-haired woman was struggling to find an appropriate response.

Finally, she replied, "If you can't trust my husband, then...can you trust me?"

"You, who is married to the Magus Killer?" Klaus shook his head. "I am afraid I cannot, Irisviel, as much as I hold you in great respect and admiration. And I can say for sure that the same applies to the other Black Masters, be they found already or undiscovered."

Irisviel sighed heavily and looked down at her cup of tea, focusing on her reflection cast by the dark liquid.

"You're right," she said. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have tried to convince you. You have your own wish, after all."

"No worries." Klaus took another sip of his tea.

"I guess there is one thing that is certain to me: there can never be a wish held by two people..."

After bowing respectfully, Kiritsugu and Irisviel stepped out of the chamber and began walking down the hallway, side by side. Moments ago, they were summoned to the Einzberns' secret homunculi factory by Jubstacheit, and were assigned to review the newest line of combat homunculi designed specifically for the Black Faction as support. Once all of the homunculi were approved (by word of Irisviel), the two were allowed to make their leave.

"What did you think of the homunculi Grandfather designed, Kiritsugu?" asked Irisviel, looking across her shoulder to focus on her husband.

"As always, they are perfect," Kiritsugu replied indifferently. "They will be sure to slow down the White Faction while we prepare to make the kill. Acht never fails to surprise me with his alchemical knowledge." Then, he turned towards Irisviel. "Iri, do you have anything to tell me about the Black Masters already here so far? What is your overall opinion of them?"

"Well, Feend vor Sembren is quite a character." Irisviel looked away and scoffed coldly, drawing a surprised reaction from Kiritsugu. "One of the maids has already made coldly regarding him a habit. I pity Gudrun greatly. I can't imagine a woman who would want to deal with him every single day."

"So vor Sembren is a Master we have to keep an eye on at all times, even during the first phase of the War."

Irisviel heaved out a heavy sigh. "More like a Master whose very breath you will have to tolerate for every second that passes for the duration of this War." She puffed out her cheeks in a childish, adorable pout. "I will not miss him if we lose him in the first phase."

Kiritsugu blinked in surprise at Irisviel's opinion of the Black Master. Then, he composed himself and continued.

"What about the Yggdmillennia Masters?"

The white-woman woman's face suddenly brightened up considerably. Kiritsugu mentally noted that he was shifting the conversation to a more optimistic topic for her.

"Oh, Kariya Matou is a wonder!" she exclaimed. "Very polite and courteous. He also dotes over Illya like his own child, and she likes him! Probably one of the best allies one can ask for!" She then noticed Kiritsugu's neutral expression and stern frown, and said in a serious tone, "Yes, I remember... Temporary ally..."

"That's how it must be, Iri. That's how it must be." Kiritsugu looked back straight ahead. "So, Kariya Matou is trustworthy on the surface level."

"I think he truly cares for others. He's especially protective of Caules."

"For all we know, it's just a cover to deceive us into believing he's someone we can fully depend on. We never put all of our trust on a temporary ally. Do you understand that, Iri?"

Irisviel could only nod reluctantly, prompting Kiritsugu to continue.

"Anyway, speaking of Caules Forvedge, what is your opinion of him?"

"Well, he's a bit like you, Kiritsugu, in the sense that he likes to use modern technology. He's got that computer of his with him all the time. He's...introverted, to say the least. Reserved, a bit like you too." Irisviel's gaze softened. "And extremely frightened. He tries to hide it, but I can tell, he's very frightened. He's still a child, and yet, he's forced to fight in a war that's not his war... I pity him so..."

"It's something that can't be helped, Iri. He's a Master now. He can't just shirk his responsibility and run away for selfish reasons."

Irisviel looked back at Kiritsugu. "But I think it's understandable, Kiritsugu. He's fighting in a war beyond his comprehension. Just like you are."

"But being afraid is a sign of weakness, one that the enemy will take advantage of when they realize it. The enemy is unforgiving and will be looking for any and all vulnerabilities. Caules Forvedge will learn this in the battlefield, whether or not he wants to. We can only hope his usefulness will last long enough for the Black Faction to win the War's first phase."

"He must learn the capabilities of the enemy... Even if it kills him, Kiritsugu?"

"Yes, even if it kills him, Iri."

"But he might have a lot to lose."

Kiritsugu's eyes narrowed darkly. "Maybe so, but sacrifices must be made. It's a requirement of life."

"Oh..."

It was silent. Then...

"And Klaus Edelfelt, Iri?"

"What about him?"

"What is your opinion of him?"

"Well...he definitely doesn't trust you. That's for sure. I doubt he even likes the catalyst you gave him, Kiritsugu."

"Not unexpected."

At this point, he and Irisviel had approached a large door. Kiritsugu opened it up for his wife, and she stepped inside the former's office. The freelance assassin followed her inside and took a cautious inspection of the hallway before slowly, warily closing the door behind him.

"Why did you want to bring me here, Kiritsugu?" Irisviel asked as he approached his desk.

"It concerns the other Black Master we found at the Clock Tower," replied Kiritsugu, his expression still dark. "The one who still has yet to respond to Acht's invitation to the castle. Another familiar was sent to the Clock Tower to spy on the Master. However, when it arrived, it appeared that the Master had already left his quarters."

"He left? Then maybe he's on his way to the castle right now-"

"Not even remotely likely. He's already in Fuyuki."

Irisviel blinked in surprise. "He's already in Fuyuki? Why?"

"I don't know. But we knew this because the familiar overheard a conversation between the Master's roommates. So, the familiar was sent to Fuyuki to track him down. Once he was found, however...the familiar was destroyed."

"Destroyed?"

"By the Servant he managed to summon."

Irisviel's eyes widened in shock. "He's already summoned a Servant? But...But Grandfather wanted all seven Black Masters to congregate in the castle and summon the Servants here before the Grail War begins!"

"Indeed. But that, plus the Master's refusal to respond to Acht's invitations, tells me that he either doesn't understand the scope of this Grail War, or he wishes to fight independently." Kiritsugu's eyes narrowed. "By this point, it is obvious that he will be a threat to us. But I don't want you to tell any of the other Black Masters about it, Iri. I can tell you've already become a little attached to most of them."

"Of course, Kiritsugu, but why?"

"They may like you, but they obviously don't like me. If they realize something like this happened, their distrust of me will further worsen, and the structural integrity of the Black Faction will fall apart. This can't happen, not when the Holy Grail War hasn't even started. Do you understand that, Iri?"

"Yes, Kiritsugu, I understand."

Kiritsugu smiled softly at Irisviel, then closed his eyes and heaved out a sigh of distress as he half-collapsed on his chair.

"I can only hope that the remaining slot in the Black Faction is filled by someone more reliable..." he said softly. "The Black Faction is already hanging on by a thread and the other members cannot view me as a leader because of what I have done to their kind. And worse yet, it appears that Kairi Sisigou, the man Maiya hired to spy on Shirou Kotomine, is sticking his nose into matters that do not concern him..."

"Kairi Sisigou?"

"Yes. Maiya traced his records and found that he had scheduled a one-way flight to Fuyuki City. He arrived there a couple of days ago. But there are no prospective jobs for him there. God knows what he plans on doing when the Grail War starts. And then...there's the matter of Shirou Kotomine...the White Master who barely exists..."

Irisviel's eyes softened in concern for her husband. She promptly approached him from behind and wrapped her arms around his shoulders. She then rested her chin against his shoulder and leaned her head against his own.

"I know it is difficult, Kiritsugu," she said. "I know there will be hard times ahead. After all, you are leading people who can never understand you, or your ideals."

"I can't even summon the Servant I'm aiming for..." Kiritsugu spat. His lip suddenly quivered, and an uncharacteristic glimmer appeared in his dark eyes. "You know, Iri... We still have a chance... We can get away...escape from all of this..."

The white-haired woman drew her head away in surprise. "Escape? You mean forget about the Grail War?"

"Yes. We can take Illya, and go as far as we can, far away from this castle, away from the War. We don't have to do this. We can just live together, as a family, without having to lose one another." Tears began to drip down Kiritsugu's eyes. "All we just have to do is run!"

Irisviel closed her eyes and sighed. "No, Kiritsugu. I'm afraid we can't."

"Why not?! This Grail War hasn't even begun, and everything's already spiraling out of our control!"

"That's because you think everything's spiraling out of control." Irisviel wiped the tears from her husband's eyes with her fingers, then kissed his cheek. "I know you, Kiritsugu. No matter how much you want to escape from all of this, you would kill yourself if you do. You wouldn't risk running away from your dream. You wouldn't risk having us all hunted down by forces we can't withstand. And you especially wouldn't risk depriving Illya a chance at living a truly normal life. You wouldn't do all of that. I know you're frightened, Kiritsugu. I am too. But we must not forget your wish, your hope for a better world. One that Illya can live in without any worries or fears."

"But...you won't be there...to share that life...with Illya...Iri... How am I supposed to let that-?"

"Happen?" completed Irisviel. She hugged Kiritsugu again. "It's okay, Kiritsugu. It pains me to know I will not be able to share that future with you and Illya, but I have accepted that fate now. It is something that cannot be avoided. And I have willingly accepted this because I will die bringing forth your dream and making it a reality. And I know you will raise Illya well in that reality without me. So please, Kiritsugu, don't run away from this. Accept this fate, and fight for your ideal. If not for your sake, then for me and Illya. Can you do that?"

Kiritsugu was still for a moment. Then, he lifted his arm and placed his hand on Irisviel's.

Miyama Town, Fuyuki

"Higher, Papa, higher!"

Shirou blinked as he continued pushing Mashu on the swing. Right now, the father and daughter were in the park in the middle of the evening. There were few families milling about, enjoying playing around in the playground or the surrounding fields of grass. Earlier that day, Shirou had decided to visit Mashu, even though she had to relocate to the Zenjou family home with Caren, Rin, and Sakura for the sole purpose of protecting them from enemy Masters. Shirou figured that since the Impossible Holy Grail War had yet to start, visiting Mashu at this time was well in order, even though it technically went against the order of Tokiomi Tohsaka.

Shirou blinked and replied, "Aren't you afraid of falling off, Mashu?"

"It's okay, Papa!" Mashu cried, smiling and laughing. "I wanna go higher! I wanna feel like I'm flying!"

The white-haired priest smiled widely. "Alright then, your highness! Your wish is my command!"

He immediately put more force and energy into his next push. Before Mashu knew it, she was reaching dangerous yet exhilarating heights on the swing.

"WHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE! Look at me, Papa! I'm flying, I'm flying!"

Shirou stepped back to avoid being hit by the incoming Mashu. His smile widened even more as he watched Mashu swinging back and forth, laughing as loud as she could, her laughs sounding as if they were coming from the very core of her soul.

"Of course you're flying, Mashu honey!" he replied. "You're like a bird in the wind!"

The air was filled with Mashu's angelic laughter. How Shirou would give anything else to let that moment last...

"I'm happy I could see you today, Papa."

Shirou smiled and replied, "Same here, Mashu honey. Same here."

He adjusted his hold on Mashu as he continued to walk up the incline. The two had just left the park several minutes ago, and were on their way back to the Zenjou home. By their side, the sun was setting, bathing all of Fuyuki City in a magnificent light of deep gold. However, Shirou wasn't engrossed in the beautiful sight. Instead, he focused his sights on the sidewalk ahead, all the while stroking Mashu's purple hair lovingly as she nuzzled her head against his chest.

"I missed you, Papa."

"So did I, Mashu. You can't imagine how empty the house was without you. How are Caren, Rin, Sakura, and Aoi doing, cooped up in that home?"

"Caren, Rin, and Aoi-san are all doing fine, but Sakura's become sadder for some reason. I try cheering her up all the time, but nothing I do works. It makes me sad."

"Ah, it's okay, Mashu. I'm sure she misses her own papa. It's an emotion we all feel when we're separated from our loved ones."

"So...does this mean you're always sad because you miss Mama?"

Shirou narrowed his eyes upon hearing Mashu's innocent question. Ever since Mirai died, it had always been difficult for him to spend the entire day without crying tears of loss and pain. Of course, that pain had lessened over time, especially with the presence of Mashu, but it never went away. He knew it would never go away, no matter how much he tried. But once he won the Grail War, then there was a high chance that he could at least find closure in that chapter of his life...

And no one would have to be sad ever again...

"That's a different story, Mashu," he finally replied. "Yes, I was sad when Mama left this world. Really sad. Uncle Kirei and Grandfather Risei were actually a bit worried about me. But over time, things got better. Things always get better, Mashu, no matter how bleak the situation is."

"So, how did things get better for you, Papa?"

"I had you."

"Oh, that's right." Mashu's smile then widened. "And I have you!"

"Yeah. We have each other. Nothing's ever gonna change that."

"Nothing?"

"Nothing."

Mashu giggled, then went silent for a moment. Shirou continued walking without speaking. Complete silence permeating their personal space; in fact, because there was no one else present in the neighborhood, it seemed as if the entire area had gone silent. After several minutes of this tense silence, Mashu looked up at her father.

"When are we gonna come back home, Papa?" she asked.

Shirou looked down at her. "I honestly don't know right now, Mashu."

"But we can come back soon, right?"

He looked down at her and flashed an innocent smile.

"Of course, sweetheart."

"So...whatever you're doing, it won't take too long?"

"Of course, it won't take too long, honey." Shirou ruffled Mashu's purple hair again. "So promise me you'll wait, until I'm done with my business. Okay?"

"Okay, Papa." Mashu nuzzled her head against her father's chest again. "I promise!"

"Good. Then I promise you, you'll come back to me...before you know it."

Shirou looked back towards the sidewalk as he continued walking. His eyes narrowed in a heightened sense of determination.

Einzbern Castle

Kariya Matou Yggdmillennia narrowed his eyes as he stared deeply at the back of his hand, examining the set of black Command Seals to its last detail. He knew that these Command Seals were solid, concrete proof that he was a Master, destined to command a Servant in this Impossible Holy Grail War. He could only wish it was a Servant other than the one the Yggdmillennia assigned him. He could still feel his catalyst poking at his skin uncomfortably from inside his pocket.

He lowered his hand and directed his focus to Caules, who was typing away furiously on his laptop. The teenage boy's gaze was more concentrated than usual, even determined. Kariya was surprised by that, given that Caules instantly panicked upon realizing he was chosen as a Master for the Grail War as well. However, he wouldn't be surprised if the boy was trying to look up ways to escape from Einzbern Castle, and probably even Germany.

"What're you looking at?" Kariya asked.

"None of your business," replied Caules.

"If you're planning on escaping this place, then your plan is doomed to fail. We've been here for a week and you still haven't realized that the snowstorms out there are generated by magic and can last as long as the Einzberns want it to?"

Caules sighed angrily, looked up from his computer screen, and gave Kariya a bitter glare. The Matou Master wasn't too surprised by that reaction, however. After all, he had been given such hateful looks from other Yggdmillennia. Though Caules was not known for being that hateful towards Kariya (after all, the man had raised him since he was a child), he was known for being extremely aggressive when he was on the defensive.

And given the circumstances of Caules's situation, Kariya knew the boy was being very defensive.

"Really?" Caules asked. "Escaping. Is that what you think I'm planning on doing? Are you serious?"

Kariya raised an eyebrow in curiosity. "Well then, what are you doing, Caules?"

"Well, considering we're going to become enemies at some point in this goddamn War, I can't tell you, because that would give away my vulnerabilities."

"We're not going to become enemies in this Grail War, Caules. No matter what happens, I am not going to go out of my way to hurt you for something as selfish as getting a wish granted by a magical cup. I promised your sister that. I know you didn't ask to be a part of this War, so I'm going to do all I can to protect you from harm. Using all of the abilities I have-" Kariya showed Caules his Command Seals. "-and my Servant."

Caules's frown became even more pronounced. "And that's supposed to give me some comfort in the fact that I'm participating in a death-match between magi? Magi whose powers and abilities easily surpass my own? Not to mention magi who are all armed with the personifications of heroic figures from ancient history?!"

"Just like I am, Caules-"

"Bull!" The teenage boy shot up from his chair. "You're a Matou! What're you gonna do to protect me?!"

Before Kariya could protest, Caules grabbed his laptop, unplugged it from the cord that was charging it, and stormed out of the room, muttering something indiscernible to himself. As he did, he passed one of the Einzbern maids, who was entering the room carrying a tray holding full, steaming teacups. The maid watched Caules go, then turned back to Kariya, who was now sighing in frustration and burying his face in his hands.

"Well," the maid said, "I assume that went well."

Kariya looked up at the maid, immediately recognizing the tone of her voice.

"Thank you for your input, Lucia," he replied.

Soon after arriving at Einzbern Castle, Kariya made it a personal assignment to memorize everyone living with them, be they human or homunculus. Out of all the maids available for service to the Black Masters, Lucia was the most...memorable of them. She had a snarky, straightforward attitude with everyone she met, especially towards people she particularly disliked. Unfortunately, Lucia's snarky, sarcastic personality was the only quality about her that could easily be described, as she would otherwise be like the other homunculi in the castle: cold, emotionless, and almost robotic.

Kariya couldn't say he hated Lucia, but he didn't like her either.

"Tea, Master Kariya?" asked Lucia, raising the tray slightly in emphasis.

"No, thank you."

Lucia nodded, then continued, "You know, Master Caules's fright is genuine. You should understand that. The circumstances can draw fear from the most youthful soul."

"He has nothing to worry about," Kariya said. "All he has to do in this War is to summon his Servant. Then, I will take things from there."

"You do understand that you will not be able to protect him all of the time, do you, Master Kariya?"

"I understand that, Lucia. But as long as I am here, I will do all I can to ensure his safety. I promised his sister that much."

Lucia raised an eyebrow in almost childlike curiosity. "Oh, his sister, you say?" she asked.

"Yes, his sister. Fiore." Kariya looked down at the carpeted floor. "I...I took care of them both ever since they were little. She's...She's a Master with the White Faction. I told her that I would make sure he wouldn't be harmed in any way."

"And you don't have any guarantee that she will not go after you and her brother? That she doesn't have a reason to seek out the Grail for herself?"

"She loves her brother. Even if she tries to win the Grail for herself, she won't do anything to harm him. She isn't like that. Fiore is sweet and kind and caring. She only wishes to walk again."

"Ah. Does she now?"

Lucia blinked, then she prepared to walk away from Kariya. Then, the Matou Master suddenly spoke up, catching her attention.

"I promise you, he will be fine. Caules will not lose his life in this War if I have anything to say about it."

"Are you sure you're up for the task, Kariya Matou?"

Kariya frowned bitterly. "That's Kariya Matou Yggdmillennia to you, Lucia. And yes, I am certainly up to the task." He stood up from his seat in determination. "I have the strongest Servant this Grail War has to offer! With its help, I am guaranteed to succeed in my task! I will not fall to the likes of the bastard Tokiomi and his White Faction, or my own allies with the Black Faction! I can promise you that!"

"Really?" The female homunculus closed her eyes. "Then I believe I shall survive long enough to see you through in this personal mission of yours. That is, if you manage to withstand all of the odds against you first."

"She's really enjoying pushing my buttons," Kariya thought, still frowning. Then, he declared out loud, "There's no guarantee that I won't, Lucia. You'll see to that."

Lucia remained still for a moment, still clutching the tray of teacups. Then, without another word, she left the room.

Tohsaka Residence

White, so bright on his skin that it was surreal. It was almost like a heavenly light. But what was heaven?

Sieg continued to stare blankly, almost disinterestedly at the set of Command Seals written on the pages of his book like the ancient symbols written in textbooks of ancient history, whatever they were. It had been a few weeks since the man with the painful look on his face, Shirou Kotomine, took him in, weeks since he received Shirou's Command Seals (and therefore, Shirou's rights as a White Master) with the help of the very book he was holding.

The Book of the False Attendant. Normally a book created for normal magical contracts like the Geis, this particular one he was holding was adapted for holding and utilizing a set of Command Seals. This specific book was crafted by the slimy old man, Zouken Matou, and once Shirou consented to transferring his Command Seals, they appeared on the pages of that very book. Thus, Sieg became the Master of the Servant Shirou intended to summon, for reasons he did not know.

Hassan-i-Sabbah, the pseudonym shared by the enigmatic leader of the Hashshashin, a medieval Islamic sect in Persia famous for coining the word 'Assassin', which was rooted from the sect's name. Also known as the Old Man in the Mountain, Hassan was, in reality, an identity passed down from one person to another, and a total of nineteen people have held the identity of Hassan in its history. After dying, these nineteen became Heroic Spirit Candidates and subsequently eligible to be summoned as Servants by the Holy Grail, though each one was always summoned under the Assassin class. In fact, it was popularly believed, for some reason, that the only Assassin Servant that could be called forth in a Holy Grail War would be one of the nineteen who held the name of Hassan-i-Sabbah.

For some reason, Shirou intended to summon one of the Hassans and use it to serve a specific purpose for the White Faction. Him and the other man who was currently Sieg's host.

Tokiomi Tohsaka. Leader of the White Faction, and a first-rate magi, a rarity of his kind in such a backwater country like Japan. For some reason, he had a fascination with elegance and reservedness, emotions that puzzled Sieg. Also for some reason, he also had a strange determination to win the Holy Grail, all for the sake of reaching something called the Root, which Shirou said was a metaphysical location that was the source of everything in the universe, but what was the universe?

What was Assassin?

Who was Hassan-i-Sabbah?

What is the Holy Grail?

What is war?

Ultimately, Sieg couldn't understand much about why he had to do what he was being told to do. In fact, he couldn't understand anything about this Holy Grail War that he was participating in. He couldn't understand the Holy Grail, he couldn't understand his Command Seals, he couldn't understand Assassin or Hassan-i-Sabbah, and he certainly couldn't understand the motivation of the men who took him in.

...In fact, he couldn't understand much of anything about life, even heroism, despite his professed admiration of it.

What is life?

He sometimes felt as if he was created for the purpose of never finding the answers to the questions he asked every day. It was tragic...and yet, what was tragedy?...

"Sieg?"

Sieg focused his attention away from the Command Seals and to Shirou, who apparently had just entered the room.

"Yes, Shirou?" Sieg asked in his emotionless voice.

"The last White Master has arrived," replied Shirou. "Tokiomi wants the others to meet her in person."

"Yes, Shirou."

Shirou nodded, then he prepared to leave when Sieg spoke again.

"Shirou?"

"Yes, Sieg?"

"What are we fighting for?"

Shirou blinked in surprise, then replied, "The Holy Grail, an omnipotent device that can grant one's most fervent wish."

"But why are we fighting for it?"

Shirou's eyes softened. "If you think we could all just share it, I wish I could tell you that is true, but I cannot."

"Why not?"

"Because, well, the Holy Grail can only grant one person's wish, and one person only. If it was something that could be shared, we wouldn't be in this position."

"Then what is a wish?"

"It can be anything, Sieg, as long as you desire for it to happen." Shirou approached Sieg and stared into his blood-red eyes seriously. "Do you have a wish, Sieg?"

"I do not know. I have never experienced the feeling of wishing for something, desiring for it to happen. I do not know the feeling."

"Well then, is there anything you want? Anything you want to own, anything you want to learn, anything you want to experience?"

"I do not know. I guess I do not know the feeling of wanting something."

Shirou raised an eyebrow in curiosity. "Then...why are you asking me all of this?"

"I find it very difficult to understand why we are doing any of this. What is the point of all of this?"

"Then I guess that is something you should ask to the Holy Grail."

"But what makes the Grail qualified to answer these questions?"

"It is omnipotent. It can do absolutely anything and everything. If asked the right question, it could even create an entirely new universe."

"If it could do everything, then why has it not done something?"

"Well, the Grail is not in physical form yet, so I doubt that it will be able to accomplish anything in that state. And then, someone needs to wish for something so the Grail can perform its feats."

Sieg blinked once. "So the Grail will only act if it materializes and someone wishes for something in its presence?"

"Yes. That is what we have taught you from the beginning, Sieg. I do not-"

"Then why is the Grail being called omnipotent?" interrupted Sieg. "If the Grail is indeed omnipotent, then it would have the ability to materialize on its own accord and not need the wish of a human being to drive its course of action."

Shirou blinked in shock, obviously not expecting these kinds of questions and responses from the homunculus.

"Well," he replied, "I guess...we were wrong in our assumptions that the Grail is omnipotent, Sieg. But we are still fighting for it, for the sake of one wish being granted by it, and we can't back out of it anymore. We must put our trust in the Holy Grail War, and do what needs to be done."

"But what exactly needs to be done, Shirou?" Sieg tilted his head in curiosity, like a confused puppy, whatever it was. "What needs to be done?"

"Your job, Sieg. Your job." The white-haired man then placed a comforting hand on the homunculus' shoulder. "You do not have to worry about anything at all, Sieg. You will do splendidly."

"I will?"

Shirou nodded. "You will. All you have to do is trust me. Trust me...and the Grail." He then gestured towards the doorway. "Now, I believe Tokiomi is expecting you to be downstairs, greeting our guest."

Sieg nodded loyally. "Yes, Shirou."

He stood up and left the room without saying another word, all the while feeling a strange sense inside him. He didn't know what it was, but he could easily compare himself to an empty cup that needed to be filled. He knew that Shirou couldn't answer any of his questions, but what he couldn't understand was why he needed to know them. And worse yet, his conversation with Shirou provoked another question that clung to his mind.

"Why must we trust the Grail?"

A deep, dark shade of red.

That was Tokiomi Tohsaka's exact favorite color. It was the sole reason why he wore these particular clothes; why he chose to have a number of rooms in his residence draped with curtains, rugs, and furniture in that specific color; why he had a preference for the brand of wine that he was drinking right now. No other color appealed to him in the slightest, not even a lighter shade of red.

The color red was said to symbolize all of the extremes in life and therefore hold powerful connotations. In terms of humanity, the color symbolized love, passion, lust, anger, violence, adventure. Of course, as an elegant and reserved Tohsaka, Tokiomi refused to fully indulge himself in such extremes. However, he knew that the specific shade of deep-red also symbolized honorable traits such as willpower, leadership, courage, and good fortune. Traits that would be especially important to him during the upcoming days that would see nothing but destruction, bloodshed, and sacrifice.

Lowering his cup, Tokiomi gazed upon his honored guests, the members of his White Faction.

Kayneth El-Melloi Archibald, the ninth son of the Archibald family, and the one who was to be the Master of Rider of White. From the moment Tokiomi learned of Kayneth's selection in the Impossible Holy Grail War, he knew that Kayneth's authoritative air and experience from his services as a Clock Tower instructor would serve the White Faction well. As a result, he appointed the Archibald Master as his first lieutenant, the one the other White Masters could turn to should he himself fall in battle.

Bram Nuada-Re Sophia-Ri, the latest successor to the Sophia-Ri family, and the Master of Archer of White. Tokiomi frowned in disapproval at his specialty in Rune Magic, which was generally useless in combat, and as such, he gave him the assignment of covering the White Faction's long-ranged attacks with Archer.

Sola-Ui Nuada-Re Sophia-Ri, the sister of Bram. Though she wasn't a proper Master, Kayneth and Bram both insisted on bringing her along as the White Faction's top healer. After taking a look at her records, Tokiomi recognized her specialty and approved the request.

Fiore Forvedge Yggdmillennia, the latest successor to the whole Yggdmillennia clan, and the Master of Berserker of White. For a magus hailing from the Yggdmillennia, Tokiomi was impressed by her first-rate magical potential, as well as her soft-spoken but determined nature. Because of this, he assigned the Berserker Servant to her because he knew that she would be patient and self-controlling enough to command the Heroic Spirit of Madness, the White Faction's powerhouse, in battle.

Itsuki Himuro, the Himuro representative, and the first of his family to be born with natural Magic Circuits in millennia. At first, Tokiomi believed that the Himuros had somehow found a way to bypass the Holy Grail system and forge a set of Command Seals for the young boy, but in the wake of Kirei's visit, the Overseer and his pupil insisted that was not the case. Within a span of months, he and Kirei personally trained Itsuki in honing his abilities and perfecting his magical potential, and once they did that, Tokiomi couldn't help but become profoundly fascinated at Itsuki's capabilities. He was a master of all Five Elements, prodigious in multiple magical fields, and seemed to even understand magic at the level of the Age of Gods. He truly was fascinating, and Tokiomi had no regrets in assigning him with Caster of White and the specialty of setting up all of the White Faction's defenses and weaponry.

Then there was Sieg, the homunculus provided to him by the Yggdmillennia, and the Master of Assassin of White. There was nothing else to say about that.

And of course there was himself, Tokiomi Tohsaka, the fifth head of the Tohsaka family, and the self-appointed Master of Saber of White, who was literally with the White Faction in spirit. Naturally, because the Masters closest to achieving victory in the previous Holy Grail Wars all had Saber Servants at their command, it was natural for him to seek out a catalyst for one. Fortunately for him, his quest bore fruit early on, and he found the bloodstained fig tree leaf only one month into his search.

Initially, the Tohsaka head had hoped to retrieve the catalyst for the strongest of all Saber Servants, the venerable King of Knights, Arthur Pendragon. Unfortunately, however, it had vanished with the ages, and he subsequently had to settle for the next best thing. Still, it brought him great pride to summon the Heroic Spirit he ultimately wound up with, for he was a hero often called invincible and immortal, with the blood of a dragon and the sword of both holy and demonic attributes.

The Dragon-Blooded Knight of Germany, Siegfried.

Now, there was one more White Master left, one who was about to arrive any minute now. The one who was to be the Master of Lancer of White. He was informed that she would be bringing a catalyst of her own along, but she declined to reveal any details. It was a shame, for he had provided a few other catalysts for her to choose from, but he took faith in her word and approved her proposal.

"Master Tokiomi."

Tokiomi turned his head to his right, spotting one of the homunculi provided by the Yggdmillennia. Like all other traditional homunculi, he had pale skin and blood-red eyes, and he wore the regular Yggdmillennia clothing, along with a dark-green beret. Clutched in his hand was an elongated staff with an ax-like blade at one end, the weapon seemingly too large and heavy for him to hold, yet he stood his ground. The Tohsaka Master knew the Musik family's alchemical knowledge wasn't on par with that of the Einzberns, but any other alchemical families in the Yggdmillennia clan were all third-rate and the Musiks were the best he could get from his allies, so he naturally accepted the homunculi for combat support and personal service.

"Yes, Decebal?" asked Tokiomi, addressing the homunculi by its assigned name.

"Our guests have arrived."

Tokiomi's sapphire-blue eyes glinted. "Ah, yes. Bring them in here, Decebal."

When Decebal nodded and left the room, Tokiomi redirected his attention back to the rest of his White Faction. Kayneth and Bram were conversing while Sola-Ui listened closely; Itsuki was lying on his bed as always, waiting patiently for something to happen; Fiore sat in her wheelchair, reading a book; and Sieg was sitting on one of the sofas idly, looking like the odd man sticking out in a social gathering between members of the elite.

"My dearest White Faction," he announced, catching everyone's attention, "the Master of Lancer of White has finally arrived. Let us welcome her in our humble domain, and accept her as a close and vital ally in this Holy Grail War."

"Yes, of course, Tokiomi," Kayneth replied.

Moments later, Decebal returned, accompanied by three women. Two were dressed up as maids, with unremarkable features of any sort, and it was clear that they were the escort for the third woman. This woman bore pale skin, flowing ivory-white hair tied into a long ponytail, and fierce golden eyes; and was wearing a white dress with a black skirt, a charcoal-gray light jacket with golden sleeves, a red scarf, purple leggings, and golden earrings that glittered with the light.

Tokiomi smiled and greeted, "Welcome, Olesya Mylène Animusphere."

Olesya Mylène Animusphere, the seventh head of the Animusphere family, a prominent lineage of magi with deep, excellent connections throughout the magical world. Half-Russian, half-French, she was regarded by many as a prodigy, having graduated summa cum laude from the London Clock Tower two years early. She made many contributions to the current public understanding of magic, as well as the modern structure to the Mage's Association's practices. She had been considered a candidate for Vice President of the Mage's Association, but she turned down the prospect, followed by an offer to become a lecturer at the Clock Tower. Both times, she cited her belief that it would benefit her more to be active on the field rather than sift through piles of paperwork and formalities at social gatherings.

It was her reputation that gifted her the nickname of 'The Queen of the Five Elements', in regards to her outstanding mastery of all of the Great Five Elements.

It also wouldn't be a surprise to more than a few, knowing that she had been selected as a Master in the Holy Grail War, considering her track record of successes and magical potential. Tokiomi couldn't have been more overjoyed after learning he had such a prodigy in his Faction.

"Thank you, Tokiomi," Olesya replied, bowing her head. "As someone who has admired their work, it is a great pleasure to be in the presence of the head of one of the Three Founding Families." She then looked at Kayneth, who was radiating pride in its purest essence, and gave him an unrestrained smile of a devious nature. "Ahhhhh, Kayneth El-Melloi Archibald. My old arch-rival. I see that the years of teaching budding magi have treated you well."

"Oh, Animusphere, do not dwell on the past, for it is the past. We are no longer rivals, but allies!" He held out a gloved hand towards Olesya. "May this Holy Grail War be one of glory for our families!"

Olesya maintained her smile and took Kayneth's hand, shaking it.

"Of course. Speaking of family glory, congratulations on your engagement." She looked at Sola-Ui. "Both of your families must be proud of this arranged union."

"Why, yes, of course!" Kayneth replied, still smiling snobbishly.

"We are overjoyed to be united with the El-Melloi," added Bram, also smiling.

"I am bursting with happiness," Sola-Ui said with a strange toxicity lacing her voice, but no one noticed it.

Tokiomi stepped forward and said, "Pardon me for interrupting this reunion, but Olesya, for the sake of this Faction's security, I must ask for your burden of proof."

The Animusphere Master smiled and showed Tokiomi her right hand. There, barely discernible with her pale skin, was a set of Command Seals, as white as snow.

"Here is my stigmata, Tokiomi Tohsaka," she replied. "The burden of proof that I am a White Master in this War."

"Of course, excellent." The Tohsaka spread out his arms in a formal, elegant pose. "Rejoice, for you are now a White Master." As he lowered his arms, he added, "Now, I ask of you, could you present to us the catalyst you have brought?"

Without responding, Olesya turned to her maids and nodded at them. One of them nodded back and left the room without saying a word, while Olesya turned back to stare at Tokiomi.

"My maid will bring it over," she said.

"I must ask, Animusphere," Kayneth implored, stepping forward with his eyebrow arched, "why bring your own catalyst?"

"Why not?" The white-haired prodigy looked at her former classmate with a mischievous twinkle in her eye. "Aren't we getting a little too trusting of our host, Archibald? Do not tell me that you have forgotten the rules of this particular Grail War. He is going to be our enemy sooner or later in this War." She made a dismissive gesture with her hand. "And he is the one supplying us with our catalysts? I would rather bed with a third-rate mage or a commoner over accept anything he claims are gifts for me."

Kayneth sputtered in shock for a moment. Then, he cleared his throat and speaking more clearly.

"But by accepting them as honored gifts, we have further solidified our alliance, our partnership with the Tohsakas, one of the Three Founding Families!" He crossed his arms. "You once said it yourself, Animusphere. Trust is absolutely essential in a high-stakes situation where alliances must be made! Well, trust is certainly applicable when we're aligned in a battle to the death between magi!" He stuck up his chin snobbishly. "And it is not like he gave us the catalysts to weak and useless Heroic Spirits! He went out of his way to find the most powerful Heroic Spirits history has to offer!"

"Ah, yes. So, what catalyst has Tokiomi Tohsaka granted you for this Impossible Holy Grail War?"

"I provided him with the catalyst for the King of Conquerors that once ruled over the lands of the known world," Tokiomi interjected.

"Ahhh, so you have Iskandar, Archibald," Olesya continued, still looking at Kayneth. "If I remember his legend correctly, he has the qualifications for the Rider class." Her eyes twinkled mischievously. "Are you sure you are prepared for the rough riding, Archibald?"

"Of course," spat Kayneth, his eyebrows furrowing and his teeth gritted in annoyance. "I can see you still hold your teasing ways." Then, he regained his composure and scoffed proudly. "But of course you couldn't have fared any better with the Heroic Spirit you plan on summoning."

"In fact..." Olesya's smile suddenly widened. "I am quite proud of my family's selection. In fact, it appears that I will have the most powerful Heroic Spirit of them all at my disposal."

Kayneth blinked in confusion. "Pardon me, Animusphere?"

Before Animusphere could reply, the maid's voice rang out across the rooms.

"Madam, I have the catalyst!"

"Very well," Olesya replied. "Show it to them!"

The maid entered the room, carrying a large, elongated object in her hands. As soon as the other White Masters saw it, their eyes all widened in shock and surprise, with the exception of the emotionless Sieg and the confused, oblivious Itsuki. Tokiomi gawked at the catalyst that was before him, before looking at Olesya, whose expression was one of complete pride, triumph, and superiority, like a female tyrant.

"H-How?" he asked. "How did you manage to find it?! I thought this was lost with the ages!"

"Well, I am afraid you thought wrong, Tokiomi Tohsaka," she replied. "I am afraid you all thought wrong." As the maid set the catalyst down on the central table, Olesya crossed her arms, scanned her group of colleagues, and continued, "You see, the Animuspheres were looking forward to the day when they would have their shot at the Holy Grail War. We took any and all measures to ensure it. Particularly, to ensure that the family representative is guaranteed an extremely powerful Heroic Spirit. Now, I shall bring pride to the name of the Animusphere family, as well as victory for the White Faction in the first phase of this War!"

A shocked Tokiomi looked back at Olesya's catalyst, still in disbelief at what he was seeing. He knew it couldn't be a replica, for Olesya wouldn't risk embarrassing herself and her family by bringing a fake catalyst. No, it had to be the real deal, especially since Olesya wasn't particularly afraid in showing it off like a trophy. If what she was saying was true, then it appears that the Animuspheres were behind the ages-long disappearance of the Avalon scabbard that once belonged to the King of Knights.

However, now that he realized this, Tokiomi realized that he may have inadvertently thrown what the rabble call a 'monkey wrench' into Olesya's plan. If she and the Animusphere family were really planning on summoning him, then she would get the Heroic Spirit she wanted...but not the Heroic Spirit she expected...

He gazed at the corner of the room, where he knew Saber of White was standing at despite being in spirit form. The Tohsaka remembered that he didn't exact tell any of his comrades that he already summoned his Servant in case one of them decided to betray him already, as inelegant and unreserved as that would be.

"Well," the Tohsaka Master thought, "this will make for an interesting Holy Grail War indeed..."

The Mackenzie Residence

"And now, onto our top story. The Fuyuki Serial Killer has struck again in Shinto, leaving behind-"

"Good morning, Waver."

"Good morning, dear!"

"Morning, Grandpa... Morning, Grandma..."

A droopy-eyed Waver yawned as he sat down at the table in a slouch and took a sip of his tea. He then set down his teacup, yawned ahain, and stretched his arms out, all the while hearing Martha Mackenzie approach the table, the familiar bitter aroma of coffee lingering in the air. Waver then focused on the old man sitting on the opposite side of the table, Martha's husband Glen. He was now focused on the TV set nearby, which was showing another news report about that serial killer who had been terrorizing Fuyuki City for the last couple of weeks.

"Fuyuki's getting bad these days..." he remarked.

"Yes, it really is," replied Martha.

Glen then turned towards his wife. "By the way, Martha, did you check all the rooms upstairs?"

"Yes, I have. Nothing's been stolen in any of them. Is it the same with you for everything downstairs?"

"Not a single thing disturbed. Not even a sign of anyone having broken in." He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "It's very strange."

"Indeed. What were those voices we were hearing last night, then? This place couldn't possibly be haunted."

Glen shrugged dismissively. "Well, whoever or whatever it was, they didn't steal anything from here. That's all that counts."

"Yes, that's true, honey." Martha then turned towards Waver, who was still yawning, stretching, and rubbing his eyes with his hands. "Here, dear, why don't you try some coffee? It seems that your tea isn't getting you up that well." Then, her eyes widened when she spotted something. "Waver, dear! What happened to your hand!"

"Huh?..."

Waver looked down at his hand. A second later, he realized it: he had forgotten to cover up his Command Seals.

"Crap," he muttered angrily under his breath.

"That mark," said Martha inquisitively, stepping forward to get a closer look. "Is that what people call a tattoo?"

"Oh, Waver, Waver, Waver," Glen added, shaking his head in disapproval. "What have we told you about getting one of those things?"

"It's not a tattoo, Grandpa!" Waver exclaimed, his mind struggling to come up with an excuse. "It's-It's a stain!"

"A stain?"

"Yes! An ink stain." Then, Waver thought, "Thank God my Command Seals aren't red like they're usually colored. Otherwise it would've been way more difficult digging my way out of this hole..."

"That's a pretty big ink stain, then, dear," Martha commented, looking unconvinced by Waver's lie. "Do you mean to tell me your pen somehow exploded?"

"An ink cartridge happened to spill on my hand while I was trying to load it into the printer, and the ink wouldn't wash off." The student covered his Command Seals and stood up from the table. "Look, I'll go to the bathroom and try to wash it off again, okay?"

Before Glen or Martha could say anything else, Waver left the room in a rush and refused to stop or look back until he stepped inside the bathroom and closed the door behind him. Sighing heavily, he buried his face in his palms and moaned into them in frustration.

"Man," he thought. "What a pain in the ass. I'm definitely not going to be able to keep this lie up for long." Then, he sighed in annoyance. "And it looks like they're already asking questions they should not be asking. Do I have to start their hypnosis all over again, starting with me being their grandson, back from abroad?"

"Master, do you reckon we should eliminate them now?" a deep female voice suddenly asked.

Waver's eyes widened in shock. "WHAT?! NO!"

"Waver, dear?" called Martha in concern. "Are you alright in there?"

"Huh? Oh, uh, I'm fine, Grandma! It's just..." He put some strain into his voice. "This stain just won't come off!"

"Do you think we should call someone, Waver?" Glen called in suggestion.

"No, no, it's fine! It'll fade away soon, don't worry!"

"Okay, if you say so, Waver!"

Waver sighed in relief, then focused his hearing on the hallway outside. Once it was clear that Glen and Martha were no longer investigating his outburst, he lowered his voice into a whisper.

"What the hell are you thinking, suggesting something like that?!" he asked.

"We require mana replenishment," a scratchy male voice replied.

"Those elders look like easy pickings," added another male voice in a poisonous, snakelike hiss.

"No way!" Waver replied as he lowered his voice further. "We are not killing them! I repeat, we are NOT killing them, Assassin!"

"Master, would you care to enlighten us with an explanation?" asked the female voice.

"Their house is the perfect base of operations for us. It's located in Miyama Town, the most ordinary and unassuming area Fuyuki has to offer. None of the Masters will ever assume we're camping out here. Those two will further reinforce our cover of normalcy. If something happens to them, someone will be quick to realize it, and the worst-case scenario is that someone will be a Master. Remember, the reason the Einzberns' familiar found us was because I summoned you in a dark alleyway, which practically screams bloody murder! In other words, we can't make ourselves obvious!" Waver sighed heavily. "Look, Assassin, I know you need mana. I get it. But as your Master, I decree that we're not going to get it that way. EVER. All right?"

"We understand, Master," the female voice replied.

"But I must inquire, Master," said an elderly male voice, "how are we going to acquire the mana we crave? We cannot kill to possess it."

"Simple," replied Waver. "I'll just supply my own mana to you."

"You?" The elderly male voice chuckled nastily. "Our own Master, a mere boy, still training to become a man, supplying us with the mana we desperately need as sustenance?! HA! You will be dead before the Holy Grail War even starts, Master."

"But you will be barely doing anything for the duration of the War. All you guys have to do is slink in the shadows and take out unsuspecting Masters when opportunity knocks. And you guys will be in spirit form when we're not fighting. That doesn't require much mana. ...Right?"

The female voice sighed. "You have never killed before, haven't you, Master?"

"Why should I, Assassin? You're the one who's going to do all the killing."

"Leading a life of killing demands a consistent expectation of the unexpected. And when we enter the battlefield, where we must kill, you will see that every move you make, every strategy you create, will be compromised at any second, unexpectedly."

"What the hell are you talking about, Assassin? We're gonna be hidden in the shadows! The only thing unexpected in this Holy Grail War will be US!"

"Yes, continue to delude yourself, Master," the elderly voice replied sarcastically. "But when the time comes, you shall find meaning behind our words."

Waver narrowed his eyes. He couldn't believe his own Servant was talking back to him. At first, he considered using a Command Seal to shut all of them up, but he instantly remembered that he would only have three Command Seals and no more. So, he settled for the next best thing.

"Ah, shut up and continue to keep guard, Assassin," he snapped.

"As you wish...Master..."

Waver gritted his teeth in annoyance as he stared at his own reflection in the mirror. It was moments like this that made him wish he had a catalyst to use. That way, he could've summoned a powerful Heroic Spirit. Unfortunately, he had no catalysts at his disposal, nor the resources to find one. He was dismayed beyond belief to know that the only Servant he could summon under these circumstances was an Assassin, with the word 'Assassin' itself being the catalyst.

His opinion of the Assassin class briefly changed when he summoned the Hundred-Faced Assassin, whose many personalities manifested into an individual body, granting him the opportunity of having multiple Assassins at his disposal. Unfortunately, these hopes were dashed as soon as they came when a large majority of the eighty or so distinct personalities of the Heroic Spirit disapproved of his capabilities as a Master. To make matters even worse, some of them even outwardly expressed their opinions of him in his presence, as if he hadn't experienced enough jeering at the Clock Tower. In fact, only two personalities seemed to tolerate him were the ones dubbed Zayd, the man with the scratchy voice; and Asako, the only female persona of the group.

Yes, there were many times he wished he could use a Command Seal to force Assassin into obeying him wholly and unconditionally, both literally and figuratively, but it definitely would be a waste to use it up on something so trivial such as obedience. As such, Waver knew that he had to just bear with it.

Unfortunately, he didn't have much time for tolerating a Servant that could talk back at him.

Waver sighed again and thought, "What a pain in the ass... I wonder what would've happened if I summoned a different Servant class? Like Saber or Archer or Rider? I bet I'd be having much better times than I am having right now. At the very least, I would be getting suitable protection from the Einzberns."

He narrowed his eyes as he remembered the constant envelopes of invitation he would receive from them.

"What in the world are they hoping to accomplish, anyway? Inviting me to their castle? Do they take me for a fool?! No, I know what they're up to! They're gonna try and do something sneaky and underhanded to me! But it won't work, for they have underestimated me! I'll get the upper hand against them!"

Unknown location

A girl living at a farm, possessing a beauty that would rival even the angels...

The same girl, kneeling before a cross, looking into it with all of the love and devotion in the world...

Her, mounting on a horse, clad in armor...

Sounds of war and death...

A courtyard of priests chanting to the heavens...

The girl of heavenly beauty, tied to a wooden cross, facing an almost ironic death...

The searing sensation of flame...

The most comforting flash of white...

"...O Lord, I give myself to You..."

Kotomine Church
– The next day –

Kirei opened his eyes, and he found himself in the same position he was in when he settled himself to bed: lying down on his back in a straight, rigid position, his hands clasped over each other and lying on top of his chest, his gaze focused on the old ceiling situated above him. He promptly raised his right hand to examine his Command Seals, the white and black contrasting each other, yet forced to lie side by side one another, like the taijitu symbol.

He knew he didn't experience any ordinary dream. He experienced a memory...

A memory of his Servant Ruler...

"O Lord, I give myself to You..." he whispered, his voice low, robotic.

Yet, he couldn't find any saving grace in those words...

Kirei announced, "Ruler, I have received reports that confirm our suspicions: Assassin of Black and his Master are operating independently from the rest of the Black Faction. The Einzberns have sent him multiple invitations to their castle, but he has ignored all of them. When they sent out a familiar to track him down, they found him already stationed in Fuyuki City. Moments later, the Master had his Servant destroy it."

Ruler turned around to look at the brown-haired priest, who closed his eyes and bowed his head slightly in a gesture of formality.

"Operating independently," she repeated. "Already at this stage of the War, as well..."

Kirei opened his eyes to look at Ruler. "I inquire your opinion about this, Ruler."

The golden-haired Servant cupped her chin with her fingers as she began thinking carefully. She closed her amethyst eyes for a moment, then opened them soon after.

"Where does the Master of Assassin of Black hail from?" she asked in response.

"He is a third-generation mage and a student from the London Clock Tower, the prestigious headquarters of the Mage's Association. However, he is the first in his lineage to actively and seriously pursue the knowledge and mysteries of magecraft. He does not appear to be remarkable in any way, nor does he possess any outstanding attributes, magical or otherwise."

"Then this action does not require immediate attention from the Overseers and Standard-Bearer. Assassin is one of the weaker Servant classes in the Holy Grail Wars, and with a weak and unrefined Master commanding it, they are bound to be quickly overwhelmed by the others. They do not pose a threat to the Holy Grail War itself."

Kirei nodded. "Very well then, Ruler. As you command."

"However," added the French saint, "I believe there should still be an eye focused on this Master-Servant pair at all times. The first phase of the Impossible Holy Grail War mandates that all of the Masters must cooperate in two Factions that must defeat the other. Assassins are more skilled in dispatching Masters, and we cannot have a lone, independent Master undermine the system of this War by taking advantage of the shadows and pick everyone off regardless of alliance."

"I agree, Kirei," a booming voice said. At the corner of his eye, Kirei watched Risei stepping onto the altar, a stern expression etched on his wrinkled face. "In spite of the poor strength and capabilities demonstrated by this pair, we cannot make any concrete assumptions. We must be cautionary."

"Then it shall be done. I will have a familiar monitor those two from a safe distance at all times." Then, Kirei added as an afterthought, "Shall we notify the rest of the Black Faction of this development?"

"I have already sent them a message," Risei replied. "I have specifically instructed them to do whatever is necessary to put this rogue Black Master in line, even if it means killing him to protect the integrity of their team structure."

Kirei narrowed his eyes slightly. "Already is the Black Faction suffering from complications. Not only this, but there is still one more Master that needs to be selected by the Grail, a Black Master. And the rest of the Black Faction needs to summon their Servants together soon, otherwise they will have to forfeit the battle because their membership is incomplete."

"Do not worry, Kirei. One or two Masters short, it doesn't matter. The Black Faction will have to summon their Servants together regardless. The Grail will still select a Black Master when the timing is appropriate, and the Black Faction can just track him or her down and fill in the details. Don't concern yourself." Risei then turned his gaze towards Ruler. "Speaking of matters that are of concern, I would like to remind you both that the church is surrounded with familiars. Though this church is neutral territory and attacking Ruler is against the rules of the reserve system, there exists the possibility of at least one Master who will disregard the rules and find ways to circumvent the system. We must be on high alert at all times. Is that understood?"

"Yes, Father Risei," replied Ruler, nodding in confirmation.

"Of course," Kirei added indifferently.

Then, Risei stretched out his arms and announced in a grandiose tone, "In a couple more hours, the battle for the Grail will be at hand! These tired old eyes shall finally look upon a wondrous miracle!"

Ruler smiled at Risei in agreement, but Kirei merely stared through his father with an air of apprehension.

Several minutes after the meeting, Kirei stepped inside the church's private room. As he closed the wooden door, he stopped upon identifying Ruler, who was kneeling before a wooden cross hanging from the wall, her eyes closed, her head bowed, her face scrunched in concentration, and her palms joined together. However, he chose not to address her, knowing that the Standard-Bearer was focused in her prayer.

Moments later, Ruler opened her eyes, smiled, and lowered her hands. Then, she looked across her shoulder to look at him.

"Oh, hello Brother Kirei," she greeted before standing up. "Do not mind me. I was just finished with my prayer."

"So I see," Kirei replied with his usual indifference. "Do not worry, for you were not a bother. You may pray wherever your heart desires."

Ruler's smile widened slightly. "Once again, I thank you for your unconditional kindness, Kirei."

Kirei didn't respond in any way, instead continuing to look at Ruler as she smiled back at him. Starting from the moment of her summoning, the Standard-Bearer never addressed her as her Master and preferred to call him by his name, citing that the only one who could hold a rank higher than hers was God, while everyone else in the world was her equal, regardless of their differences and limitations. It made the unspeakable creature residing within Kirei squirm uncomfortably, but he managed to stomach it and overcome its temptation, like he always did.

...But he always found it so annoying...

"...O Lord, I give myself to You..."

As soon as he remembered those words, Kirei remembered the vision he experienced in his sleep. He was very familiar of the legend of Jeanne d'Arc, long before he even knew of the Holy Grail Wars. He recalled never being able to understand it that much...

Once he regained his senses of the external world, Kirei realized that Ruler was already preparing to leave.

"Ruler," he said.

The saint stopped and turned around to look at him. "Yes, Kirei?" she asked.

"I would like to ask you a question, if you do not mind."

"A question? No, I do not mind. By all means, Kirei, what is it that you have to ask me?"

Kirei hesitated briefly, then asked, "Did you ever have regrets?"

"Regrets?" Ruler blinked, surprised by such a question. "What do you mean, Kirei?"

"Did you ever regret the life that you led a long time ago, even once?"

"Oh..." She hesitantly looked down at the floor, hiding her expression away from Kirei's view. "Yes, Kirei, I did have regrets. Many times over. I wondered what would've happened if I had just ignored the voice and all of the war and death that surrounded my village. I wondered if I would've been able to live a normal life if I did just that. I could've met a man who would care for me and raised a family. I could've experienced the joys experienced by any other girl from my time. I could've saved myself from the horrors brought by the battlefield. Yes, I did regret shunning such a life in favor of something that was beyond my comprehension.

"But in spite of my regrets, not once did I curse the path I took in my life. Not once did I believe it was a mistake to have chosen that life. Not once did I hate myself for bringing about my ultimate doom. It did not matter if others despised me for what I have done, or if what I've done deprived me of my chances at a normal life. I knew that as long as I held my prayers close to my heart, everything will be alright, and none of my actions would have been put to waste."

She looked up at Kirei with her amethyst eyes, which showed no signs of regret, only happiness, contentment, and acceptance.

"I did have regrets, Kirei, but I never loathed myself for them. Not once."

"I see..." replied Kirei.

Ruler chuckled. "It must be quite odd, hearing a saint give such an admission."

"No. I believe that it is natural for everyone, even servants of God, to hold emotions such as regret and doubt. I do not judge you for your confession."

"Of course you do not. You are a good person, Kirei." She placed a hand on his chest, directly over his heart, and continued to smile. "God smiles down upon you."

Upon hearing those words, Kirei felt the creature squirm again, writhing like a flickering, dying flame. He narrowed his brown eyes, slightly enough so Ruler hopefully wouldn't notice. However, to his surprise, she did, as she frowned while reading his expression.

"Do you doubt yourself, Kirei?" she asked in curiosity.

Kirei replied quickly, "No. I do not know what you are talking about, Ruler."

"The look in your eyes... It's the same look I see in the eyes of people who have lost their way, who feel they can no longer rely on God for strength and guidance." She raised her unoccupied hand, holding it over her own heart. "If there is anything that concerns you, anything at all, then you can confide in me. Do not worry, Kirei. I will not judge you, just like you have not judged me. Just pour out everything that is being held in your heart, and there will be an answer for you."

The brown-haired, empty-eyed man didn't speak for a few moments. Then, he exhaled and closed his eyes.

"My entire life thus far was spent in search for true meaning," he replied. "Every time I believe I have found an answer, something I can take solace in, I merely come to the eventual conclusion that it was just another day spent in emptiness."

Ruler blinked in confusion. "I do not understand, Kirei. You are a priest, devoted to following the ways of God. You find an absence of meaning in that?"

"I understand it, yet I cannot. I admit I have a flawed perception of things. I cannot even find any sort of joy in raising a family. My wife, God rest her soul, believed I could perceive joy and love, but when she passed, I could only shed fake tears." Kirei opened his eyes, the same indifference and lack of emotion remaining. "If I can't find meaning in the world God has created for all of us, then I can only be a disappointment in His eyes."

The Standard-Bearer's eyes widened, and she retracted her hand away from Kirei's chest.

"Do not say that, Kirei!" she exclaimed. "God is never disappointed in anyone, nor does He show any contempt or any other negative emotions towards His creations! He can only create a singular path for each individual, a path he or she must follow in order to find a purpose in life." Her gaze softened. "You are no exception, Kirei. There's no denying that God has a plan laid out for you. You just have to keep following your path, and not stray from it. Then, once you have reached its end, you will realize the purpose of your own life."

"The purpose of my own life..." repeated Kirei. "But...what if it's something I do not want?"

"There can never be a purpose to one's life that is unwanted. Once you realize it, it will all make sense to you, just as long as you have faith in the Lord."

"As long as I have faith..."

Ruler nodded affirmatively. "Yes. As long as you have faith."

Kirei looked away, staring at a bottle of wine that was lying on the table, as if beckoning its owner. His eyes, usually empty, now had a spark of life to them, as they were expressing the priest's pondering...

"...O Lord, I give myself to You..."

"If Ruler chose to shun a normal life in favor of something beyond her comprehension," he thought, "then could I do the same thing? Would I be able to find happiness this way?..."

He looked up, as if expecting Ruler to be there to give him some sort of concrete answer. Instead, all he saw was empty space.

Einzbern Castle
– A couple of hours later –

"Grandfather Acht has a message for all of you, so all of you, please listen up."

The Black Masters all glanced towards Irisviel and gave her their attention. Currently, they were all seated in one of the many living rooms of the castle, and a few Einzbern homunculi maids were at standby for any sudden occasion. The only one absent in their current roster was, without a doubt, Kiritsugu; Irisviel told them that he was still in his private study, concocting more strategies for the Black Faction, but Feend was quick to disagree with that claim.

"Is it about the remaining two Masters?" asked Feend nastily. "Because the bastards have yet to show up, and we have to summon our Servants later tonight."

"In a way, yes," Irisviel replied, trying her best to ignore the vor Sembren Master's intolerable attitude. "Grandfather wants me to inform you all that the Master of Assassin of Black has already set up a base of operations in Fuyuki."

"He's already in Fuyuki?" Klaus asked, his eyebrow raised. "I thought all of the Black Masters were supposed to congregate here to summon our Servants?"

"That was the initial plan, but Grandfather and Kiritsugu then thought it would be more beneficial for us if we had a Master already at Fuyuki. He will be studying the layout of the city to form a geo-strategy against the White Faction."

"If that Magus Killer thinks it's a good idea," Feend spat, "then I believe anything but that."

Irisviel calmly ignored her comrade and continued, "As for the other Black Master who has not appeared yet, Grandfather says that the slot has not been filled yet. As a result, he has given us the approval to summon our Servants as soon as possible, tonight."

Feend rolled his eyes, scoffed, and gritted his teeth. "You know, Einzbern, there's one thing that puts me up in arms, moreso than your husband." He stood up from his sofa, startling the nearby Gudrun. "Do you wish to know what that is?"

"Do enlighten me, vor Sembren," Irisviel said, her red eyes narrowed.

"It's being lied to." Feend stormed up to the white-haired woman's position, but she held her ground. "I was expecting to see the assembly of a complete Black Faction, a full set of comrades-in-arms. That was what your grandfather's invitation promised. Yet, my expectations were only partially met."

"You only have the Grail to blame, vor Sembren, for it is responsible for selecting the final Black Master, not the Einzberns."

"And how do I not know you're lying to me? Hm? You may shower all of the goddamn praise you have all over him; I do not care about such sentiments from you. No matter what you say, I will still believe that your husband is nothing more than a disgrace to the thaumaturgical world, like he always has been. I will also believe that all of this is part of his scheme to keep us at arm's length, progressively weakening all of us for the duration of the first phase so he can execute us easily once the second phase begins."

"I don't understand how Kiritsugu expects to win the first phase if he's going to weaken all of you for the duration of it."

"He's the Magus Killer, woman. He will find a way to bring shame upon us and all other mages." He sneered, baring his teeth. "But of course you would never know that. You're nothing more than a homunculus, designed to do nothing more than follow orders and keep us lively! You're just a waste of air and space- ACK!"

Irisviel watched as Klaus grabbed Feend from behind and shoved him away from her. The two mages stared each other down; Klaus looked calm but disappointed, while Feend appeared utterly enraged at this point.

"She may be a homunculus," Klaus said, "but she is also our host, and she has welcomed all of us into her home with grace and hospitality. It is rather unbecoming of an eighth-generation mage such as yourself to be insulting a host like that. Is that not right? Feend vor Sembren?"

Feend growled savagely and replied, "Fine. I can't afford to waste my time talking to homunculi as if they were actually human beings!" He glared at Gudrun, who flinched at his very gaze. "Come on now, Gudrun!"

The maid let out a noise of obedience, quickly shot up from her seat, and followed Feend out of the room like a puppy following its owner. The others watched him go before Irisviel refocused her gaze on the Black Masters.

"That...That is all I have to say," she said, Feend's insult still searing into her mind. "Y-You can all leave now." As the Masters all stood up and prepared to make their leave, she quickly added, "O-Oh, and don't forget to come to the Einzbern chapel to summon our Servants!"

The others nodded in response and left the room, one by one, followed by the Einzbern maids. Eventually, this left Klaus as the last one to leave. However, before he could step through the doorway, he stopped and turned back to look at Irisviel, who was looking down at the floor in shock.

"I apologize for the way he acted, Irisviel," he said.

"Oh." Irisviel looked up and tried to give him a smile, but it faltered. "It's...It's nothing, really..." Her eyes started to shimmer with tears. "Nothing, really..."

"But he insulted you. Regardless of who or what you are, you are also a woman, and a man who insults a woman is an unforgivable man." His eyes softened as he noticed tears flowing down Irisviel's cheeks. "I, for one, do not believe you're just like any other homunculus. You're already more unique than any other homunculi I have seen in my life."

Irisviel blinked and wiped away her tears. "Do you really think that?..." she asked.

"Of course. You have already accomplished more than any average homunculus, and that is raising your child with love and care. If that does not define a human being, then I do not know what does."

"Oh, thank you..." The woman flashed him a smile. "Your words mean a lot to me. I cannot even begin to express my gratitude towards your kindness..."

"Think nothing of it," replied Klaus. "Just survive the Grail War, for the sake of your daughter and your husband."

He gave her a tiny smile before leaving the room and closing the door behind him. However, as he left, he did not notice that Irisviel had slipped back into her state of sadness and grief, albeit for different reasons. She clasped her hands over her heart, looked down at the carpeted floor, and began to weep quietly, unnoticed by anyone.

It was just her in the lonely living room.

The Tohsaka Residence

Tokiomi stood on the upper-floor balcony of his manor, watching as Olesya, Kayneth, Bram, Sieg, and Fiore congregated into a straight line facing the rear courtyard. Itsuki was also in the same position, though his bed had to be wheeled onto the scene by a couple of Yggdmillennia homunculi.

The Tohsaka Master glanced at Olesya, taking note of her slouched, disappointed posture. Several minutes earlier, he had informed her and the other White Masters of his summoning of Saber of White, even having the sword-wielding Servant materialize before them all as proof. Tokiomi recalled how shocked and disappointed Olesya was, despite her attempt to hide it with her usual calm and calculating demeanor. But now that the Animusphere Master was out in the courtyard, ready to summon her planned Servant with the other White Masters, her disappointment was clear to him.

"It couldn't be helped, Olesya Animusphere," he thought. Then, he raised his cup of wine and took a sip in contentment. "But now, I believe that it is time for the summoning of ancient heroes to begin."

Then, he watched closely as all of the White Masters placed their respective catalysts on top of a marble pedestal, with the obvious exception of Itsuki, who had to be assisted by the Yggdmillennia assistant homunculi. Then, the group of Masters, even Itsuki, positioned themselves a few feet away from the pedestal, making sure to avoid the six white Summoning Circles that were drawn on the ground.

"Tokiomi," a familiar voice suddenly said.

The Tohsaka turned around and saw Shirou approaching him, looking extremely focused. To his surprise, Darnic Prestone Yggdmillennia was right behind him.

"Shirou," greeted Tokiomi kindly. Then, he narrowed his eyes at Darnic. "Yggdmillennia elder. What brings you here?"

"Why, I wish to bear witness to my beloved Fiore's summoning of her Heroic Spirit," Darnic replied, appearing calm but secretly cautious of Tokiomi's defensive nature. "A grandfather like me must see all of his grandchild's accomplishments. Shirou here was kind enough to let me in and allow me to watch these proceedings."

Tokiomi looked at Shirou, who merely replied, "It is alright, Tokiomi. Let us just watch this."

Tokiomi pursed his lips, dissatisfied to know that Shirou would approve of this without a second thought. The Tohsaka head looked from him to Darnic and back, still reluctant to let a magus like Yggdmillennia mill around in his residence, even if it was the elder. However, when he looked at Shirou, the white-haired man gave him a subtle nod of consolation. Reluctantly, Tokiomi turned to Darnic and bowed his head at him.

"Very well," he said. "You are welcome to stay as long as you like, elder."

Darnic smiled in response. At that moment, Tokiomi turned around. The six White Masters had just raised the hands holding their respective Command Seals, keeping their arms in place with their other hands. Realizing what was about to come, he closed his eyes.

"Now," Tokiomi whispered to himself softly, "let us...begin."

Shirou pursed his lips and followed Tokiomi's gaze towards the courtyard.

Einzbern Castle

"Is everyone here and ready to go?" Irisviel asked, scanning the interior of the church for all of the White Masters. They were all standing before the altar, holding their catalysts and ready to place them down on the central table. Between them and the altar were five black Summoning Circles drawn on the floor.

Feend scoffed and rolled his eyes. "I wish that would be so," he spat, "if your husband were actually here."

Irisviel pursed her lips and had to use all of the self-control she could muster to restrain herself from lashing out at the unbearable vor Sembren Master. Then, the corner of her eye caught Klaus looking at her with uncertainty, and she instantly began to calm down, feeling all of the contempt for Feend slowly subside.

Once it did, she took a deep breath and replied, "Kiritsugu should be arriving any moment now."

"I hope so. Otherwise, I fear for my life."

"I beg your pardon, vor Sembren?"

Feend sneered jeeringly and glanced over his shoulder, towards the doorway. "Well, I mean, the four of us mages, trapped together in this small chapel with only one way out... It sounds like an ideal game trail for the Magus Killer..."

"He wouldn't just kill us, vor Sembren," replied Kariya without looking at Feend, but his vicious frown was pronounced. "If he did that, he would deprive himself of any potential support and be left alone to face off against Tohsaka and the White Faction by himself. And if not that, then he would also have the Einzberns to deal with, since it was their elder's plan to put us all in here. Plus..." He took a brief but kind glance at Irisviel, causing her to beam happily at his support. "He wouldn't act against us if his wife, and the elder's granddaughter, was inside the same building as us."

However, Feend scoffed. "Me, support for the Magus Killer? HA! I would rather lose my Magic Circuits than be associated with the likes of that disgrace of a mage!"

"You must not speak your mind so openly, vor Sembren," Klaus warned. "Already you are testing the collective cooperation between us Black Masters-"

"You are one to talk, Edelfelt!" snapped Feend, cutting off the Edelfelt Master. "You were provided your catalyst by our so-called leader, and I can see the disapproval and resentment in your eyes, as clear as day!"

Klaus closed his eyes and bowed his head, like a knight kneeling before his king. "As much as I do not agree with our leader's choice of a catalyst for me," he explained, "it is my duty as an Edelfelt to accept this offering from my host and fight alongside him in a grand and worthy battle for the Holy Grail. No matter who he is or what he has done to slight the magical world, I shall accept him as my temporary ally. After all, the enemy of my enemy is my friend."

"The thing is," a voice suddenly said, "there are no friends in the battlefield."

Everyone turned their heads towards the doorway, where they saw...

"Kiritsugu!" exclaimed Irisviel joyously. "Oh, it's good you came! We're just about to get started-"

"Where in blazes were you, leader?!" snapped Feend furiously, standing up and marching towards the freelance assassin, who didn't even flinch. "I haven't laid eyes on you ever since you first greeted me in the Einzberns' domain! If what you did could even be considered a greeting, anyway, being damn silent and all!" He sneered as he leaned his face close to Kiritsugu's, letting the Magus Killer see every detail of his face. "I cannot believe you had the nerve to ignore your guests, your fellow allies, for most of our stay in this castle! And you continue to call yourself as our leader?! How pathetic!"

"I was merely busy setting up strategies for the War," Kiritsugu replied calmly in a robotic tone. "It required a large majority of my time."

"DON'T SPIT YOUR LIES AT ME, FOOL!" Then, Feend chuckled nastily and turned back towards the central table. "At least you had the gall to share your lies to me in person this time, instead of letting your so-called wife be your personal courier!"

Irisviel widened her eyes and looked at Kiritsugu, but she saw no visible reaction from him. He didn't seem fazed at all by the insult directed at her.

Feend noticed this too, for he looked back, his sneer still in place.

"Oh, whatever is wrong, Magus Killer?" he asked mockingly. "Can't attack me because I am a fellow Black Master, a precious ally in this Grail War? Even though you desperately want to? I know you do..."

Suddenly, Kiritsugu's hand slowly glided into his black trench-coat, as if he were reaching for something...

"Kiritsugu!" Irisviel screamed, sensing the worst. "NO!"

To everyone's surprise, the Black Faction leader pulled out a simple, harmless-looking piece of wood.

"Let's get started, shall we?" he asked, his voice still robotic.

Initially dumbfounded by Kiritsugu's lack of reaction to Feend's volley of insults, the other Black Masters nodded in response and placed their respective catalysts on top of the central table, sans a trembling Feend. The vor Sembren Master hatefully watched as Kiritsugu approached the table, set down the splinter of wood, and stood beside the other Black Masters. Once he did, the assassin eyed Feend, a spark of unsatisfactory emotion in his dark, cold eyes.

"Let's get started," he said, though he didn't seem to be addressing Feend specifically.

Feend gritted his teeth in outrage at the command. Then, after mentally evaluating the situation, he pursed his lips and reluctantly set down his own catalyst beside the four others.

Then, as Irisviel cautiously stepped back to the side, the Black Masters stepped away from the Summoning Circles. Next, they raised the hands holding their respective Command Seals, keeping their arms in place with their other hands.

Kotomine Church

Ruler, Kirei, and Risei stood on the altar, still as statues, bathed in the pale moonlight. Their eyes were closed, and they appeared to be waiting for something...

The Tohsaka Residence

The eyes of all of the White Masters were closed as they recited their chant, their differing voices in complete synchronization with one another.

"Let silver and steel be the essence.

Let stone and the archduke of contracts be the foundation.

Let white be the color I pay tribute to."

Einzbern Castle

"Let black be the color I pay tribute to.

Let rise a wall against the wind that shall fall.

Let the four cardinal gates close.

Let the three-forked road from the crown reaching unto the Kingdom rotate."

Kiritsugu opened his eyes and watched as his Summoning Circle began to glow a white light. He felt mana pour into the chapel, but paid absolutely no attention to it as he continued his chant, focusing on the catalyst in front of him, praying fervently that he would get the Servant he was aiming for.

"Let it be filled. Again. Again. Again. Again.

Let it be filled fivefold for every turn, simply breaking asunder with every filling.

Let it be declared now;

your flesh shall serve under me and my fate shall be with your sword."

"Submit to the beckoning of the Holy Grail.

Answer, if you would submit to this will and this truth."

"An oath shall be sworn here.

I shall attain all virtues of all of Heaven;

I shall have dominion over all evils of all of Hell."

Kariya narrowed his eyes, realizing that he needed to recite the extra lines in his specific chant.

"Yet you shall serve with your eyes clouded by chaos.

For you would be one caged in madness."

Tokiomi and Darnic smiled proudly as they watched Fiore continue her extended chant unflinchingly, while Shirou's frown became more pronounced.

"I shall wield your chains."

"From the Seventh Heaven, attended to by three great words of power,

come forth from the ring of restraint, protector of the holy balance!"

The entire interior of the chapel erupted with bright white light, engulfing everyone in view.

"From the Seventh Heaven, attended to by three great words of power,

come forth from the ring of restraint, protector of the holy balance!"

The entire courtyard erupted with bright white light, engulfing everyone in view.

Once the light finally faded out, Kiritsugu, Irisviel, and the others stared at the sight before them. A cloud of smoke hung in front of them like a veil, but they could easily distinguish the five outlines through it. Then, the smoke began to part, revealing the ancient figures of history that they summoned.

Kariya and Caules's jaws dropped open in shock, Klaus stared on calmly without his expression changing, and Feend's lips curved into a sinister grin of satisfaction.

As for Kiritsugu, he muttered, "Impossible..."

Once the light finally faded out, Tokiomi opened his blue eyes and stared at the sight before him. A cloud of smoke draped over the entire courtyard, obscuring most of it from view. After a few minutes, though, the smoke parted, slowly revealing the figures of his White Faction and their summoned Servants.

His refined face beamed, and his lips curved into a triumphant smile.

"Behold it, Shirou," he said. "We have won the battle." He then stretched out his arms in a posture of glorious triumph. "Victory is ours!"

Shirou merely blinked in response.

On the rooftop of the manor, directly above the balcony Shirou, Tokiomi, and Darnic stood on, Saber of White silently sat on the shingles, also watching the events as they unfolded, his stoic expression unchanging.

Fourteen voices rang out at once, in two separate lands, in complete synchronization with one another. The Masters all stood in awe of the presences.

"I ask of you, are you my Master?"

He wishes to reach the root of all things

Chapter 1:
Prologue, Part V:
Summoning of Ancient Heroes

Kayneth: Do not speak to me in such a tone!

Tokiomi: This could serve as an advantage...

Assassin of White: I answer to my Master.

Bram: All you have to do is stand back.

Archer of White: There can only be one King!

Shirou: Don't worry. It shall be done, Father.

Next Time:
The White Land

A/N: Well, that took a long while, and there were some complications here and there in the process. Namely, having to find a way to fit all of this in whatever spare time I have each day. But, at long last, I am done with this goddamn endeavor, and I am proud of the final result. The writing may be a little shoddy in some places, and fast-paced here and there (especially at the end there), but I'm still proud of what I have done. All I've got left now at the time being is your honest opinions and personal enjoyment.

Anyway, yes, Waver has the Hundred-Faced Assassin as his Servant instead of Iskandar, who in turn is stuck with Kayneth as of this chapter. I decided to tackle this idea after seeing a scene in Episode 13 of the anime, in which Waver says that he should've made a pact with Assassin instead of Rider. I thought it would've been a novel idea to experiment with in my first "Fate/stay night" fic. Plus, I also wondered what would've happened if Waver somehow wasn't able to steal Kayneth's catalyst and Kayneth went into the Holy Grail War with Iskandar as his Servant.

As for the Black Master who has yet to be selected by the Grail, I'm pretty sure you all can guess who it is. It's a doozy. :P

Now that I shared my ending thoughts and notes, I am pleased to announce that this marks the conclusion of the prologue. Now, we get onto the real meat of the story: the Impossible Holy Grail War! HOORAY!

I'd like to thank the following for reviewing:

-angelvan105: Really can't be able to read your review, since it's just one block of a paragraph.

-EVA-Saiyajin: Sorry you don't like the idea, but it kinda made sense considering the Matous are a progressively weak lineage of magi and the Yggdmillennia take in magi families that are weak in terms of magical abilities.

-Guest N (guest reviewer):

1) It's a surprise. You will find out in the next chapter, don't worry.

2) Very funny play on words, huh?

-Elef.L: Thanks, but can you be more specific in your review? What did you find "amazing"? Is there anything you didn't find amazing? Anything you would like to ask or note? I won't be able to deliver more goods or even improve on anything specific if all you have to say for the chapter is simply "Amazing". I know it's amazing if you are reviewing it that way. That part's obvious. But I want to know the specific details. Just something for you to note.

-rmyu (guest reviewer): I'm glad you think the story is fantastic! Yes, I've always wanted to integrate "Fate/Apocrypha", Shirou Kotomine included, in my first "Fate/stay night" fic, and it's always a pleasure to be told that I am doing it well! :D Hope you stay tuned for more!

Well, hope you enjoyed this long, overdue chapter! TheCartoonFanatic01 is out. PEACE!