Advent of Muramasa Shirou

by Ronin2106

Shirou suffered from the Grail's fire greatly, but was saved by Irisviel instead of Kiritsugu, who escaped clutches of Grail. With her help and guidance, Shirou will discover his past and open a path forward for himself, as heir of Muramasa line, holding it's greatest treasures and secrets. Is the World ready for a new Hero, or will it destroy him? Very Strong!Shirou; Alive!Iri!

6. Chapter 6

Three weeks later. London Heathrow Airport

The largest and busiest airport of London and British Isles was just as impressive as it was advertised to Shirou and Rin, and for a few moments they felt like they were still in Fuyuki's airport. Having spent their whole time on the plane, they were glad to finally be out of there after over 17 hours and glad to at least stretch their legs. As the two had picked up their luggage, which was deceptively light for their purposes, Shirou and Rin now made their way to the exit, with Rin looking around with a bit of an awe, while Shirou looked at the watch on his phone, before speaking up.

"Looks like we arrived a little early." Shirou noted to Rin, who turned to him with a look of surprise. "There's still at least an hour before I ride arrives, if I'm not mistaken."

"Great, so what are we to do in the meantime?" She asked with a tired sigh. "The last thing I want is to spend several more hours anywhere but bed." Rin complained, since she didn't exactly have a chance to get a wink of sleep, due to not being used to flying.

"Don't worry, Rin. Venelana sent me the number before we departed, so I'll give her a call and let her know we've arrived." Shirou assured her, before he felt a familiar presence. "Or she would've already learned about us coming early." To that response Rin cocked her brow, before she understood what he meant, when straight to them walked none other than Caenis.

"Hey there, kiddos." Caenis, dressed in a white shirt, black jacket, jeans and boots, walked to them with a smile on her face. "Well, I'll be damned. The heck have they been feeding the two of you out there? You look nothing like the kids I remember." Caenis said with a laugh, as she took a good look at the two of them.

Thanks to good care by Irisviel and Touko, Shirou and Rin could be considered to be exceptionally well developed for their 14 years, though they looked almost on all 17 or older. Shirou stood at an impressive 5.5 feet already, and with a well developed body, evidence of him constantly working and training, though not to the extreme. His facial features well defined, with the most striking ones being golden eyes and the crimson hair, which he allowed to grow out, now reached the middle of his neck, and framed his face, while it had maintained its spikiness, with strands of white adding a bit of mystique and uniqueness. Rin too had grown into a fine and attractive girl, standing at 5 feet 1 inches, she was a bit shorter than Shirou, but that did not diminish her beauty, as she seemed to have inherited at least some of her mother's beauty. Though the two were Magi in deed and belief, they had the foresight to arrive in casual clothes, so as to not arouse any suspicions, even though they were already allowed.

"It's good to see you as well, Caenis-san." Shirou bowed his head to her with a smile, but she waved it off.

"Nah, just call me Caenis. C'mon, I've parked just outside and I'm sure as hell you don't want to spend any more time in here than you already have." Caenis led the pair outside and to her car, a Rolls Royce Phantom, before getting in, with Shirou and Rin taking back seat. "Okay, strap in, kiddos." And so Caenis drove the car, and the two teens relaxed.

"Caenis, how did you know that we've arrived early?" Shirou asked of her, as she drove.

"Ven had her notified the moment your flight entered range of Heathrow's contact, so she knew when you would be arriving." Caenis answered, as she drove. "Speaking of which, your main luggage has already arrived and been taken care of. It's already waiting for you where we a going."

"Has Lady Runeas arranged a boarding house for us, or a dormitory?" Rin asked, with Caenis chuckling.

"Why would the two of you need it, when you have a whole estate of your own?" Caenis asked her rhetorically, surprising Rin and Shirou. "Didn't Aozaki tell you?"

"No, Kaa-chan said that Venelana would arranger everything for us, but I didn't know she would prepare a whole estate for us." Shirou responded with surprise. "Did she buy it, or is she lending us one of Runeas' family ones?"

"Neither, that estate was actually your dad's." Caenis revealed to Shirou, with Rin looking at him with surprise. "Back when he didn't move to Japan and was still with the Association, he had managed to snatch a very juicy plot of land with an estate over it. Ven had it refurbished and modernized, so it has everything the two of you would need, from separate Workshops to all the modern marvels, like TVs, computers, game consoles and Wi-Fi."

"That all sounds pretty fantastic, but do you know about the magical properties of the estate?" Rin asked of Caenis, as she took a turn and the two were now in suburbs of London.

"Like I said, it's a very juicy plot of land, not only because of the neighborhood and views, but also because of the leylines. I'm no expert on them, but according to Ven, that estate is only a little worse in terms of magical quality than the Muramasa's one, as it stands in the nexus or something of those lines." Caenis responded. "And don't worry, it's got everything you might need for work, Shirou. Your dad left his forge there in a pristine condition, and it has all the necessities of same quality you are used to working with. The second Workshop was previously Aozaki's, but I'm sure it'll be more than enough for you, Tohsaka." Caenis responded.

"You sure know a lot about it, Caenis." Shirou noted. "Even if Dad wasn't planning of returning any time soon to London, he wouldn't have left the place just open and free for invasions."

"Of course he didn't. Your old man put so many traps, defenses, wards, curses and Olympus knows what else, that not even the dumbest Magus of any kind would even think of going there. Locals consider it to be a haunted mansion, but no one's interest in finding out the truth and they are more than content to leave it be." Caenis said, as she took another turn. "After Genji left, he had me keeping an eye out for it, which was a pretty boring and easy thing to do."

"He didn't leave it for his mother?" Rin asked with surprise, though Shirou didn't really react to it. "I guess they really had a serious fight and she's still not over it, since she didn't even once show herself to Shirou. In fact, it's Venelana Runeas who had been acting all this time as family than Shirou's own grandmother, who didn't even want to see Shirou."

"I'm sure she had her reasons not reveal herself to me, Rin, and I've got a feeling that she has seen me more than once already." Shirou said to her, confusing Rin a little, but before she could ask more, Shirou decided to change the subject as he turned to Caenis. "Sounds like you and dad knew each other well." Shirou remarked, with Caenis letting out a hearty laugh.

"Yeah, he was a spry chicken since he was little, never able to seemingly sit or stand still, and always finding adventures and trouble on his head. His mom may've scolded him a lot for his pranks and adventures, but she sure loved him more than anything." Caenis said with a small smile. "He and I often hanged out and done missions together when he was willing to help out the Department of Policies, or when he needed some materials. Never afraid of anything: Magi, Beasts, Dead Apostles, Church –he just laugh and beat the living crap out of it, before taking what he needed and make another masterpiece. Speaking of masterpieces, those were some pretty impressive armor and sword you made for that doll, surprised the heck out of me and Ven with how intricate and well-made it was, not to mention how it you've perfectly copied the style of Rider's armor and sword, yet made them look unique. Care to share where did you glean that out?" Shirou was a little confused, before he realized what Caenis was talking about.

"Ah, it's about the Saber clone that we had to make?" Shirou asked of Caenis, who looked at him with a raised eyebrow. "The doll's appearance was modeled after that of Saber of Fourth War, which we've gotten from memories of my Mom Irisviel. She also shared the appearance of the armor and sword, so I've used it, as an inspiration. My hardest and best work for now, and it was well worth it."

"If Genji was alive and saw them, he'd be damn well proud of you, Shirou, trust me. Those were some damn best sword and armor I saw in a long while, not since your Dad was here." Caenis stated to him with pride in her voice.

"I guess that doll drew quite a lot of attention." Rin remarked, with Caenis letting out a laugh.

"Ha, that's putting it very mildly, girl. The Association's higher ups damn near had a heart attack when that thing arrived, and were afraid it was here to wreak the place, so they sent Ven and me to investigate. Turns out that some dumb kid actually bought his teacher, current Lord El-Melloi, that doll as a maid!" Caenis laughed loudly at the thought. "A maid with an arsenal of spells that could take out half of the Enforcers, reinforced frame and internals that could withstand a tank shell, armor that gives zero fucks even about spells and guns, and finally, a cursed sword that shoots out concentrated mana bursts in form of Chaos energy! Seriously, Shirou, how in the world did you come up with that?" Caenis asked of him with an impressed tone.

"It wasn't easy, I'll tell you that. I had to infuse Faery's essence into the metal to give it the right magical conductivity, and then use dragon's powdered bones to make into a magical reactor of sorts." Shirou said. "Good thing I had that metal to work with, otherwise I wouldn't have made it, and I'm pretty sure it isn't something you can find anywhere in the world."

"No, you can't. It is a special alloy that was made from iron from the Reverse Side of the World and bones of a dragon." Caenis revealed to Shirou and Rin, surprising them. "Genji made that alloy himself, in hopes he could use for his greatest masterpiece, but it didn't work out. Still, it did turn out to be one heck of good metal, so he kept it for later works. And he would've been extremely proud of you for that incredible work, Shirou." Caenis assured him, as they've stopped before the gates of the mansion, before they opened and they drove in.

The said mansion was of an English style, not too vast and big, but of the size where it could still be considered worthy of it's name. It was bigger than the Tohsaka mansion and actually had two small wings that were attached to the central part. Land around it was well maintained and natural, without any gardens or lawns, just pure plains with a few wild flowers and a pond nearby. Like Caenis had said, both Rin and Shirou could sense the magical energies of the place and it was quite similar to Muramasa Estate. Soon enough the car stopped before the entrance, where they were expected by none other than Venelana Runeas herself, who smiled when she saw Shirou and Rin.

"Welcome, Shirou, Tohsaka-san. I hope the flight was a calm one and the road here easy." Venelana told them, as she moved to hug Shirou, who reciprocated it without any shyness, since the two were at this point quite close. "It is good to see you, Shirou. You and Touko have made quite a ruckus with your collaboration."

"Thank you, and I'm happy to see you well, Venelana." Shirou responded, with the woman smiling to him. "We weren't exactly aiming to make a show, since we assumed it was an order from a Magi family or a Lord. Sorry for causing you trouble."

"Think nothing of it. I do find that unexpected surprises are good for breaking the monotony of life, and that was certainly an amusing one for me." Venelana chuckled, as she looked at both Shirou and Rin. "Shirou, forgive my curiosity, since I didn't exactly give it thought before, but I was under the impression that your adopted sister Illyasviel would also be coming. Is she in good health?" Venelana asked.

"Yeah, she is as good as it gets, but she won't be coming to Clock Tower, at least this and next year." Shirou told Venelana, who looked at him with a question. "Before the school year's end, Atlas had reached out to Mom and offered Illya a tuition, and she accepted."

"Oh, so Atlas had managed to get to her first, hm?" Venelana responded, before adding. "Well, perhaps it is for the best, since Illya's forte is Alchemy, and Atlas Institute is the very best place one can learn it, and as far as I know, it isn't as… shall we say, competitive, as the Clock Tower. Perhaps someday you too could pay a visit to it."

"They've actually offered to take me in as well, but I've stated my decision to come here to them." Shirou told Venelana, who was surprised at his words. "Still, I was surprised that they had offered me a spot. I mean, I do like Alchemy a lot and I've been working on it hard, but I always thought that Illya was at least five to ten steps ahead of me in that regard."

"You are underselling yourself, Shirou." Rin told him with a small chuckle, before she turned to Venelana. "Lady Runeas, we deeply appreciate your patronage and help. We will make sure to live up to your expectations." Rin said in an official tone before bowing.

"I just hope you two can keep the Clock Tower lively, but we can talk about it later. I am sure you are quite tired and it's never easy flying for so long and also getting acclimated to the new time zone and climate." Venelana told them, as she motioned to the door and led them inside. "I've taken the liberty of restocking the pantry, so to speak, and updating the manor for all the modern accessories and comforts. Take a few days, rest and acclimate, and then I'll be happy to give you a tour of London, and as for Clock Tower, that can wait for a week, but I've already made all the arrangements. And in the meantime, the two of you will be in the care of your new maid, Shirou." Venelana smiled, as the doors opened, and there was waiting the maid, one that Shirou was extremely surprised to see.

"Welcome, Master. I hope your flight was an easy one." The doll that his Kaa-chan, Irisviel, Aoko and he created, greeted Shirou with a curtsy, dressed in a black and white maid's outfit, which despite being fully closed, showed her good figure and curves in full. "I have prepared a light lunch for you and Tohsaka-san to recuperate after your flight."

"Saber Alter? What are you doing in here?" Shirou asked immediately, referring to her by the name Irisviel came up, with Saber Alter blinking at his question as if he had asked something unexpected.

"I am greeting my Master and expressing my readiness to serve as his maid and his knight, Master." Saber Alter answered with an even tone. "Is there something I had done that you find of offence, Master?"

"No, that's not it. I mean, why are you here and not with the who ordered you?" Shirou asked of her, before he turned to smiling Venelana. "Um, Venelana, could you explain?"

"Of course. Saber Alter, or Arturia Drake, as she had dubbed herself, has been sold to by the person it was originally intended to. The one who placed the order to you and Touko was, to put it lightly, an eccentric student of current Head of Modern Magecraft Department, Lord El-Melloi II, who wished to present her to him as a gift." Venelana explained. "Unfortunately for the poor Lord El-Melloi II, his student actually took a loan and named him as his guarantor, so it was up to him to pay the full price for her and all that came with it." Shirou was surprised to hear it.

"Considering how much of price tag she had on her, I would've expected that Lord to simply sell her back to someone, if only to cover at least some part of the loan." Rin commented.

"Indeed, hence why when I proposed to take her off his hands with the full coverage of loan, he was positively beaming with gratitude, as was his charming young apprentice. Poor thing was so intimidated and scared of our Arturia and her capabilities, she feared she would be replaced." Venelana commented, as she turned to now named Arturia Drake. "Though she was a bit despondent of the fact that she was so readily parted with, she was more than eager to receive you as her new Master. I hope you do not mind that I've decided to re-educate her, so as to free her from the unnecessary "additions" in her vocabulary and mindset. I personally believe it was fully to the benefit of our Arturia here." To that Arturia bowed her head readily.

"Please rest assured, Master, for I have retained all of the offensive and defensive capabilities I was granted by you and Mistresses. My sword and Magecrafts are yours to command and stand ready for your orders." Arturia responded. "If you are worried my loyalties may waver towards my previous Master, rest assured, that my fealty is to you alone. Should you order for me to dismember and destroy him, I shall gladly do so without hesitation." The seeming eagerness to complete that order did not escape Shirou's notice.

"That will not be necessary, Saber, um, I'm sorry, Arturia." Shirou corrected himself, with the woman smiling to him a little.

"Please do not apologize, Master. I am yours in all things, and if you so wish, I am prepared to change my name to suit your needs." Arturia Drake responded.

"That will not be necessary. I just want to know whichever name you are most comfortable with." Shirou asked of her, with his maid responding immediately.

"Whichever you so desire to dub me with, naturally." She responded, with Shirou letting out a sigh.

"I see she is a fiercely dedicated one." Rin noted dryly, before looking at Shirou with a wry eye. "You know, I've heard from Irisviel about all the special features this Saber Alter of yours possesses. Shall you test if all her "features" are to your liking, Shirou?" She decided to tease him, with Shirou getting a bit of a blush at what Rin was hinting, before Arturia responded.

"If it is my Master's desire, I am fully prepared demonstrate all of my capabilities, be their related to housekeeping, combat and sexual intercourse in all variants." Arturia responded with a calm tone, with Venelana chuckling, before Arturia turned to Shirou. "Would you like a demonstration of my capabilities and features, Master?" At this point, Shirou has had enough.

"No, no, I will take your word, Arturia. Since… Since you yourself decided to call yourself Arturia, than that is how I shall call you. Will this suffice?" Arturia bowed her head in respect and acceptance. "And, Rin, please don't use Arturia as a way for your teasing. Just because of how she was created, doesn't mean she can be made fun of or used like that." Unbeknownst to Shirou and Rin, Arturia felt warmth from Shirou's words, and allowed herself to smile at that moment.

"Okay, okay, Shirou. I'll limit myself to teasing you only and spare your precious new maid." Rin said in a half-hearted manner, before she felt quite a threatening aura coming from Shirou's maid, who stared at her with her pale golden eyes in a manner, that made the Tohsaka feel like she was facing a dragon.

"Tohsaka-san, I trust you will limit yourself in that department to providing mutual entertainment to yourself and to my Master, and not actively mock my Master for your own pleasure. Otherwise…" The coldness of Arturia's tone was enough to make Rin shake in her place. "…I will correct your behavior."

"I-I will." Rin promised quite eagerly, while Venelana mentally patted herself on the back.

She could already tell that she won't get bored with them, and it will be a fun year for her and the Clock Tower.

---

A week later. Department of Modern Magecraft.

After a period of acclimating and getting accustomed to the climate and time of London, Shirou and Rin had decided that it was about time to actually visit and see the Clock Tower. Having spent plenty enough time with one another, Rin decided that it may be best if Shirou and her visited the Departments separately, so as to not arouse as much attention, though Shirou believed it was due to the fact that Rin wanted to make a good first impression on her own. He wasn't going to stop her, and so he agreed to her plan, and made his choice of visiting the Department of Modern Magecraft Theory, with Arturia, dressing in more fitting civil clothing, accompanying him.

At first, Shirou had to admit that it was a bit confusing to have her serving him as his maid, but he had managed to get past the initial awkwardness and found himself growing fond of Arturia, both as a maid, but also as person. Though she was not a natural human, in mind, manner and actions, she was as much human as anyone else, and even possessed a soul, despite how hard it may sound to believe in, and though she was not even two months old, Arturia already possessed her own set of principles, opinion and other things that made her distinct. She was loyal not only because it was "wired" into her, but because of her own choice, as Venelana had helped the artificial human realize herself as a person, and she realized what gave her joy and made her sad. Being a maid and serving to her master, and being valued to him was what brought her happiness, and as it turned out, after witnessing Lord El-Melloi II so eagerly get rid of her, made her discover that being abandoned and parted so eagerly was what made her mad and hurt her.

This explained the sheer zeal and eagerness that Arturia showed in serving Shirou and readiness to obey every command, and as expected of a maid, she excelled in all that she was supposed to do. It was rather a confusing situation for Shirou when he decided to make use of kitchen and cook only to be stopped by Arturia, fearful that he had disliked her cooking, though after an explanation, she did relent and allow him to use the kitchen and even tasted his meals. Shirou had long since understood that cooking was one of his greatest talents and he was proud of his cooking, one that had earned him praise from even Gilgamesh, but he especially now cherished the satisfied and serene look of Arturia as she ate his food. In her mind, this was the greatest reward she could receive and it made her all the more eager to perform to the best of her abilities, as well as to improve.

Shaking off his thoughts, Shirou, dressed in the in the simple black and white jacket, red shirt underneath, black pants and shoes, walked with Arturia, dressed in a black coat with dark red scarf, high boots and black tight pants underneath the coat follower her master. Soon enough they noticed a blonde girl in noble's clothing a few years younger than Shirou, and one that was accompanied by a maid, made of mercury, with Shirou recognizing it as a familiar-type Mystic Code. The girl also noticed Shirou and his maid, so moved to intercept and spoke up first.

"Pardon me, but could you please explain where have you come upon this toy?" She pointed at Arturia, who looked at her with a neutral expression. "You see, some weeks past, my dear elder brother had actually received her as gift to him, yet she appears to have mysteriously vanished. Should I assume you've come to return our lost property?" She asked of Shirou with a smile that nearly made Shirou shiver, but he maintained his cool.

"No, and Arturia isn't simply property of mine. She is my maid, and I would appreciate if you were to show her respect befitting a human being." Shirou responded with a neutral, yet stern tone, with the girl looking at him with surprise, while Arturia again appreciated her Master's care. "And as for the matter of her current allegiance, if she wishes, Arturia can answer that one herself." Arturia understood that as a choice, and exercised her right to it.

"My current allegiance is to my present Master, milady. Your elder brother, Lord El-Melloi, had forfeited me and all rights to me naught two hours after I appeared before him." Arturia responded, with Reines cocking a brow at her response.

"I see. I guess I should've expected my elder brother to be quick in parting with you, though I must say it would've been amusing to see you straighten him out of his bad habits." The girl responded, before she turned to Shirou, before performing a curtsy before him. "My apologies for my earlier words. Let us start again: I am Reines El-Melloi Archisorte, 10th head of Archibald family, head of the El-Melloi faction and younger adopted sister of Lord El-Melloi II." Shirou tensed a little at the mention of the Archibald family and the El-Melloi, but decided to maintain good manners, and so bowed in respect.

"A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Lady Reines. I am Shirou Muramasa, 25th Head of the Muramasa Family, hailing from Japan." Shirou could see a surprised look on the girl's face, which turned into a smile.

"So, you are the Mystic Artisan, responsible for providing your current maid's armor and sword? I must say, their appearance had caused quite a stir within the Clock Tower. Even Lords and Heads of Families and Factions were quite surprised by her arms, and even more so at the fact of who crafted them." Reines informed Shirou. "Quite a unique and impactful way declare yourself to the Association. I must say, that quite a few people have been growing rather interested in meeting you, myself included, naturally." To that Shirou could only chuckle lightly.

"To be quite fair, Lady Reines, this was not my intent when creating the Armor of Twilight and Umbra." Shirou responded, with Reines cocking a brow at his answer. "I was simply doing it because my Kaa-chan requested my help, and I saw it as an excellent challenge and opportunity to test and improve my abilities."

"Kaa-chan? I believe in Japanese that means "mother," am I correct?" Reines asked, and Shirou nodded in confirmation. "Oh, so you are not only son of Genji Muramasa, but also son of Touko Aozaki. My, my, aren't you quite an interesting person, Shirou Muramasa, or would you prefer I call you Shirou Emiya, after your adopted "Kaa-chan?" Reines' words made it clear to Shirou that she had done her research, and most probably was aware of the altercation that took place years ago between his family and El-Melloi faction.

"Though I do see myself as Emiya too, I bear my birth name of Muramasa, and seeing as you are aware of that fact, I assume that you are also aware of my past altercations with your faction?" Shirou was right, when Reines nodded to him with a smile.

"Of course I am, and all in all, I should really be thanking you and your family for ending that arrogant prick Lianer for good. He was about as arrogant as my predecessor, and only half as smart, so his death was a service for the humanity and me, since without him to oppose, I was able to more or less comfortably assume my current position." Reines revealed to Shirou. "If you are concerned of that, then you can relax, for the last thing I want to do is make an enemy of someone to whom I owe my throne, so to speak."

"That is a relieve to hear, Lady Reines." Shirou responded calmly. "If I may ask, should expect any problems from other members of your faction and family, due to my past history."

"Not at all, since all them were oh so busy fighting for scraps, none had deigned to take note of you and your family. And as for my dear elder brother, you can rest easy, since he isn't an Archibald or El-Melloi by blood, though your maid here and her sword appeared to have given him and his apprentice quite a scare." Reines revealed to Shirou, surprising him. "I assume it has something to do with his past as a participant of that Holy Grail War." Shirou blinked in surprise at her words.

"He was a Master in the Holy Grail War?" Shirou asked again, and Reines nodded. "But I had thought that only my adoptive mother Irisviel and late Kirei Kotomine were its survivors."

"He doesn't really talk about it, but assume he was eliminated because of his Servant's death, though I am surprised that you've mentioned this little fact." Reines remarked. "I thought that a Mystic Artisan like you would have no interest in a battle royal between Mages for the possession of a wish granting cup. But then again, it is the goal of all Magi to reach the Root, so…"

"It's not something like that, no." Shirou stopped Reines, as he stiffened from the memories. "It's just… I lost my father and suffered an amnesia, all because of what that Grail had unleashed." Reines could see the pain in Shirou's eyes, and much to her own surprise, felt remorse for her careless tone earlier.

"My apologies, I did not mean to poke you with this." Reines responded.

"No, it is alright. May we change subjects?" Shirou asked of her.

"Certainly. So, care to tell me to what the department of my dear older brother owes your presence?" Reines asked with curiosity.

"I'm just visiting, for now. Getting acquainted with the place where I'll be studying." Shirou responded, with Reines looking with surprise at his words.

"Studying here? How queer, I would've assumed, given your profession, you would choose the Mineralogy or Creation Departments, and avoid this one." Reines remarked. "I imagine both would eagerly snatch you for themselves, especially Inorai Valualeta, given that you are son of her best student."

"I do not exactly plan to limit myself to only my Mystic Code artistry, and Modern Magecraft Theory does align with my interests and goals, so I plan to study it as well." Shirou told Reines, who understood what he meant.

"Well, then I can tell you that you have nothing to worry about then. My dear elder brother may be a complete and utter failure at being a Magus, but he is an absolute genius in bringing out fullest potential out of all his students." Reines stated to Shirou, just as the door into his classroom opened up and out walked said Lord El-Melloi II and his apprentice. "Speaking of the devil, here he comes. Another excellent lecture, dear elder brother?" Reines asked of him, with Lord El-Melloi II suppressing a groan, before he finally noticed Arturia, stiffening and widening his eyes, along with his apprentice, who hid behind his back.

"What is she doing in here? Don't tell me that you went and bought her back, just to annoy me, Reines." El-Melloi asked of her, while Arturia suppressed a scoff.

"As much as I may adore you, not even I am that crazy to try and bargain with the Venerable Queen of Destruction." Reines referred to Venelana by her nom de guerre, before she pointed at Shirou. "I am merely having a conversation with your former maid's new Master, who so happens to be your future student." At that moment Lord El-Melloi focused his eyes upon Shirou, and recognition came to him.

"I see. You are Shirou Muramasa, right?" Lord El-Melloi asked of him.

"I am, Professor El-Melloi II, and my apologies for causing problems to you." Shirou apologized, with Lord El-Melloi II letting out a sigh.

"No need, though I would recommend your mother to be more careful in the selection of her orders, or at least to screen her clients more thoroughly." Lord responded. "And since we are not yet in the class, you may call me Waver, or Lord El-Melloi II. Lady Runeas had informed me that you were interested in my department's subject, though I find it odd. From my understanding, you have all the necessary qualities to succeed in the other Departments, so why would you also decide to take my course?" Waver asked of Shirou, with him answering.

"To broaden my knowledge and experience, essentially." Shirou answered, with Waver not taken by it, before Shirou elaborated. "Contrary to what most think, Lord El-Melloi, but my family and I have always valued not only arts of forging and crafting, but other forms of Magecraft and have always tried to keep up with the times. New times create new technologies and opportunities to expand and further one's abilities, and the same goes for blacksmithing and creation of Mystic Codes. Learn, adapt, perfect- motto of Muramasa family." Shirou answered, with Waver nodding to him.

"Quite a progressive motto to live by." Waver answered, before noticing how his apprentice still hasn't introduced herself. "Ahem, you will have to forgive my apprentice. Your maid had left quite an impression upon her."

"I imagine." Shirou said, before turning to the hooded girl. "Miss…?"

"Gray. Just Gray." She responded with a shy tone.

"Gray, please allow me to offer my apologies for any and all distress I and my family have caused you with our work. I will not deny that we used your visage for our work and we operated on the assumed knowledge of your consent, but I would like to also apologize, for not having received your explicit permission for using it." Shirou bowed his head in respectful and apologetic manner before Gray, surprising her, Reines and Waver. "If you wish, I am prepared to offer any substantial compensation for our transgression." The fact that he was fully sincere and truthful was obvious, Gray realized it, and so she spoke up.

"N-no, i-it's alright. Please, raise your head, Muramasa, sir." She asked of him with a bit of shyness in her voice, with Shirou doing it. "I… I was just surprised and frightened by her."

"Then please allow me to offer my apologies, Miss Gray. It was never my intent to cause you any form of distress and discomfort." Arturia spoke up, with Gray nodding to her a bit shakily. "It was also not my intent to supplant you in any form or manner, and I hope that we may establish a cordial and amicable rapport." Gray was surprised by her words, and then looked up to Waver, who merely nodded to her.

"I… I wouldn't mind that." Gray answered, as she finally stepped from behind her Master. "I am Gray, Lord El-Melloi's apprentice and assistant."

"A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Gray. I am Shirou Muramasa, a blacksmith of Muramasa family." Shirou responded with a smile.

"I am Arturia Drake, maid and knight to my Master, Shirou Muramasa." Arturia finished with a curtsy.

"Hey! How about me, Gray?! Did you again forget with your empty head about me?!" Shirou and everyone suddenly heard an annoyed mechanical voice, and then Gray brought up her bird cage with the Mystic Code inside of it.

"This is Add, my Mystic Code. Please ignore him." She said with a flat tone, before she tossed it around a bit, making Add shout in discomfort, while Shirou locked his eyes on it with serious interest.

"A multi-form Mystic Code with an artificial personality? I've read about one like being in possession of Atlas." Shirou said, with Gray and others looking at him with surprise.

"How did you guess?" She asked of him with surprise.

"I learned about them from my father's journals. He was researching this type of Mystic Codes for a long time, practically wrote a book about it." Shirou responded, as he looked closer at Add, seemingly drawn to it, or rather something inside of it. "Hm… Do you mind if I take a bit of a closer look at it?" Shirou asked of Gray, who didn't understand him.

"What do you mean?" She asked of him.

"Oh, I mean with my Structural Analysis." Shirou elaborated, with Gray's eyes widening in shock.

"No!" She immediately told him with a shout, surprising Shirou.

"I'm sorry. I can get a bit carried away." Shirou apologies, with Gray nodding to him and putting Add away. "Still, that is one exceptional Mystic Code you have there. Not sure I could even compete with the person who crafted him."

"M-maybe one day you may." Gray responded. "Y-your sword and armor, the ones you made for her… are very amazing too." Shirou smiled to her at that comment, making Gray blush.

"Thank you, I shall take your word on that." Shirou said.

"Oh I wouldn't be so quick to be patting yourself on the back." Suddenly a new voice spoke from behind them all, drawing their attention to it's source. "Maybe for an oriental barbarian it may be masterpiece, but before sophisticated and enlightened society that is Europe, it is but a miserable attempt at imitating our brilliant achievements and stealing our glories. But then again, that is what the Muramasa are good for – theft and imitation." The source of those words was a young girl blonde of same age as Shirou, with her long hair made into drills, while she dressed in a blue dress with white came over her right shoulder, as she wore a vicious expression.

"Who are you and how dare to accuse my Master of such vile things?" Arturia demanded with the fury rising, before Shirou calmed her with his raised hand. "Master?"

"I'll handle it, Arturia." Shirou assured her, before he turned to the girl. "I fear you have me at a disadvantage, milady. You know who I am and openly disparage me, yet I know naught to whom direct my response. Perhaps it would be prudent to exchange greetings, before we decide to tear our throats out?" Shirou suggested, with the girl letting out a haughty huff.

"You come from the Muramasa line and claim not to even recognize your sworn enemy? How absolutely rude of you, truly barbaric." She stated with pride, before she did some sort of pose and spoke up again to Shirou. "But since at least one of us is of civilized upbringing, I shall do you the courtesy of alleviating your ignorance. I am Luviagelita Edelfelt, heir of Edelfelt family of Finland, and a member of the House, that your wretched family had made it their sworn duty to assault and humiliate for the past two generations." She stated with indignation, with Shirou blinking at her response and complete confusion.

"Well, I am Shirou Muramasa, and I have no idea what you are talking about." Shirou stated to her with firm tone. "The last and only time I remember our families coming to clash was about 76 years ago, during the Third Holy Grail War, and as far as I recall, that was it. Surely that it is well past time to put that behind us all." Luvia looked positively outraged at his response.

"You… You dare to suggest that I, proud daughter of the Edelfelt family, forgive you and your family for all they had done to us?! Preposterous and outrageous, where is your honor and pride as a Magus?!" Luvia demanded of him, before haughtily huffing. "The War you speak of was merely the start, when your wretched grandfather denied my family the price we deserved, and had even dared to humiliate us by somehow cheating a victory for himself over both my grandmother and her sister. And then there is his son and your father, Genji Muramasa, who not only stole our spot at Kaleidoscope's side, but had even dared to attack head of our house and my Grandmother, all in the attempt to gleam our secrets of Jewels for his own sake! How do you respond to that, faker?"

"How do I… My father was many things, but I refuse to believe that he would go as far as to attack your family for whatever reason you may think. In fact, I actually now recall that it was the Edelfelts that struck at him, having been sent by one Tokiomi Tohsaka." Shirou responded, standing his ground, with Luvia not buying it for a second. "I do not know what exactly are you trying to gain from angering me, Lady Edelfelt, but I'll not allow even one of your station to insult my family with such lies."

"It is pretty obvious what she actually is trying to get." Reines decided to chime in, drawing Shirou's attention. "The Edelfelts are the world's most elegant and fashionable hyenas, always out there, getting stuck in other's business, ruining lives and stealing other's hard work and achievements. I imagine that a Magical Crest of a family as old as yours must be especially tempting for her, hence why her family and now her are seeking to get a chance at stealing it."

"I fervently object such baseless accusations! My family are proud adventurers and warriors, not some thieves as you make us out to be, Princess of El-Melloi." Luvia stated, before she turned her attention to Shirou. "And as a proud heiress of Edelfelt, I can't simply let you strut around as if nothing had happened. Shirou Muramasa, I will have you answer for all of your family's crimes against the Edelfelts." She proclaimed to him.

"No offence, but I have better things to do than indulge you and your family in whatever demand they have." Shirou responded. "However, if you have a request for a weapon or a Mystic Code, I am willing to hear you out."

"You would still consider treating her as customer, after all those words?" Waver asked of him with surprise in his tone.

"As if I would lower myself to ordering cheap and fragile works of a faker, whose father had not gone off and died as some unknown nobody, while his mother ran off an wasted away at the bottom of bottle." Luvia responded with arrogant tone, with Shirou finally starting to lose his patience and give in to his anger. "And what is even worse, is the fact that a Magus of Rank of Grand had degraded herself to falling in love with such a pitiful excuse of man. Truly, she is indeed the Disgraced Scarlet of Aozaki, who couldn't even inherit…" At that moment, Shirou stepped forth, and slapped Luvia hard on her face, a hard look of determination on his face, with Luvia in shock.

"I was going to overlook your words of my craft and lies about my family… But I will not let anyone disparage on my parents like that, and certainly not some haughty nouveau riche bitch who blabbers her mouth without stop." Shirou's cold fury was in full display, as he dropped all politeness, with Luvia looking at him with shock, as did others. "You wish for a confrontation, Edelfelt – you have it. Name the place and time."

"A-are you actually challenging me to a duel?" Luvia made a show of being surprised, but none had bought it.

"Let's cut the act already. Your intent was transparent at best." Shirou stated to her. "Now, where and when do we settle this "grudge" of our families?" Shirou asked of her, with Luvia smirking at him.

"In three days' time, an hour before midnight, on the grounds of Edelfelt family, I shall wipe away the shame your family dared to inflict upon mine." Luvia stated. "We'll fight until one of us isn't disabled, or dead. No holds barred, any Magecraft and arms."

"As you wish. I hope that will settle this matter for good." Shirou told her, with Luvia haughtily turning away from him and leaving.

"Well, well, Muramasa, not even officially in the Clock Tower, and yet you've already made an enemy for yourself. You certainly work fast." Reines noted. "Still, for as infuriating that Lady Forklift is, she has never been so antagonistic towards anyone, nor sought a flight so openly. And then there is such queer conditions. What do you say, dear elder brother?"

"It was obvious that her intent was to get you to fight her, Muramasa, and I'm surprised you've granted her this, especially deciding to fight on her grounds." Waver stated to him. "Though why I do not know. Mayhaps there is some truth to her words, though I doubt it is as outrageous as she made it sound."

"Yeah, but I'll make sure to check it's validity." Shirou stated.

"A-are you sure you'll be fine? M-miss Luvia is a formidable Magus, without even her Jewels. She is a ruthless and strong fighter too." Gray responded.

"I appreciate the concern, Gray, but if there is one thing I've grown used to it's dealing with her kind of arrogance." Shirou told her. "And believe- compared to what I deal on the regular, she's tame." Shirou recalled all of his sessions with Gilgamesh, each and every one ending with him on the ground, exhausted and beaten, yet stronger and stronger.

Now it was time to see, just how strong he really was, but before that, he'll find out exactly what had happened between the Muramasa and the Edelfelts.

---

Three days later. Edelfelt estate's grounds.

To say that this seemingly small and out of nowhere confrontation had created waves across all of the Association of London's Clock Tower would be an understatement, as the news traveled faster than wind and within two hours everyone, from students to Lords were made aware of what had transpired. Under normal circumstances, such a duel shouldn't have gained authorization for happening, but in this instance, the heads of the Democratic faction decided to put their foot down and let the duel commence, much to the dismay of Department of Politics. To an outsider it may've looked like Edelfelts had simply used their connections, but this went deeper than just mere assistance, because of one simple fact- Shirou was son of Genji and grandson of Hiryu Muramasa.

Both of Muramasa men were legendary and powerful in their own rights, Shirou's father was regarded as the best Mystic Artisan of the century, not to mention his prowess in Magecrafts, and though Shirou was still a relative unknown, he did demonstrate that he was an Artisan like his father. Now the higher-ups of the Clock Tower wanted to see what exactly son of Genji Muramasa and Touko Aozaki could do, determine whether or not he was worth trying to get on their side, or if he deserved to be snuffed out. In this case, allowing a duel between Luviagelita Edelfelt and Shirou to take place was not even a consideration for the Lords, and so now nearly all of the higher ups, as well as prominent Magi, Lords and heads of families, were gathered on the elevated grounds of the Edelfelts land. They were overlooking a circular arena below them, where the fight would take place, with them allowed the front row seats to observe it.

When she had heard about this incident, Rin couldn't believe that Shirou would actually pick a fight with the Edelfelt heiress of all people, personally thinking that it was outrageous to do, yet after hearing of details, she knew that he had no other choice. He was baited, crudely and without any consideration, but if there is one thing Shirou could not stand more than someone stomping on his pride, it was when someone dared tarnish the name of his parents. The fact that Luvia had went as far as to insult Touko and Genji both at the same time made it absolute that she would pay. Now she, along with Venelana, Arturia and Touko, who had arrived as quickly as she could after hearing the news, was now here to observe it happen.

"I can't believe that the Edelfelts had somehow managed to put an open amphitheater so close to London." Rin noted, as she looked around. "And there are so many prominent people around here… Are all of them here just to see this fight?"

"More precisely, they are here to access whether or not Shirou Muramasa lives up to the name that he carries. The last two men who bore it before he had left a serious impact and unforgettable impression, and the people want to know if Shirou will be the same." Reines, along with her adoptive elder brother and his apprentice, joined their little group. "Hope you do not mind us deciding to join in. It's not every day one gets the rare chance to see the legendary Touko Aozaki in person, though I am quite surprised you've come in such a… simple fashion." Reines looked at the way Touko was dressed, that being her usual orange cloak, white shirt, black pants and shoes.

"I didn't exactly come to a party." Touko responded to her, before she heard a familiar chuckle.

"Oh but one could call it celebration, and one you should also enjoy, my dear." Inorai Valualeta, former mentor of Touko, closed the distance and spoke with her former student. "After all, it is not every day one's child gets to make such a loud and great debut. And I recall you and Genji were both quite fond of such events." Touko scowled at Inorai, who merely let out a chuckle.

"Yes, and the last time that happened, you all but put a Designation of both of us, yet look at what is happening now." Touko told her, as she looked Inorai right in the eyes. "Do not think that we don't see what you and your friends are trying to do here, you old crone. Should something happen to my son because of your "curiosity" I'll pulverize you until you are but dust." Touko made it clear that she was not kidding, though Inorai simply smiled to her.

"Ah, Touko is this any way for a former student to talk to her teacher? Please do not tell me that you are still sore over the Sealing Designation, you've brought it upon yourself, my dear." Inorai told Touko. "You know how possessive the Clock Tower can be with unique prodigies and geniuses, and I do wonder if what your son has inherited from you. Perhaps we'll see it tonight." And with that Inorai decided to leave them, with Touko scowling at her back.

"Decrepit old bitch." Touko stated, before she turned to Venelana. "It's safe to assume that she is the primary backer of the Edelfelts in this one. If Luvia wins, she'll have Edelfelts support, and if Shirou wins, she'll throw Luvia under the bus and try to snatch him. Either way, it is a win for her."

"An astute observation, Miss Aozaki." A new voice drew the attention of all, revealing it to be a very young woman with a brown hair made into a ponytail, with an air of aristocracy around her, as she spoke and walked to them. "You've arrived as expected of you, but your attire leaves much to be desired."

"Forgive me for putting concern over son over social decorum, Lord Barthomeloi." Touko answered to Lorelei Barthomeloi, the Vice-Director of the Clock Tower and Lord of Department of Policies, as well as second Grand Wizard of the Association. "I am surprised, however, that you would even take notice of such an event, Lord. Last I recall, your family wanted nothing to do with the Muramasa family." Lorelei didn't react to Touko's words, before responding.

"My presence here is one facilitated by my duties as Lord and Head of Policies, and as for my personal relations with the Muramasa family, they are none of your concern, puppet master." Lorelei responded, before turning to Venelana. "Venelana." Lorelei bowed her head a little in respect

"Lord Barthomeloi." Venelana responded, and then they heard an announcer speak up.

"Ladies and gentlemen, the duel is about to start. Please all take your seats, as we are about to put up Bounded Fields for your safety." The crowd began to take their spots, as the arena became illuminated, an showed Luvia in her blue combat dress, looking as if she had already won, with the light soon showing Shirou Muramasa, as he stepped onto the ring.

Surprising many, Shirou's battle dress consider of a Japanese' styled formal black coat with loose sleeves with red details on it, with red arm bracers being seen from beneath the sleeves, with a black ring mail and shirt being seen beneath the loose coat, while his legs were covered with loose pants and boots. Completing this picture was a white cloak, draped to his left side, behind his shoulder, making him appear as more than just an Artisan, but an actual aristocrat, as the attire radiated nobility. To his sides were strapped two Japanese swords, identical in design, being a standard longer and shorter pair. To say that Shirou was making quite an impression would be an understatement, with Luvia eyeing him with prideful eye, before deciding to speak up.

"What is with this ridiculous outfit? Do you seriously mean to fight me while looking like this?" Luvia laughed openly at him. "Truly, you Muramasa are even worse than those Tohsaka imitators. Don't you know that one should exercise elegance in all things, including battle?"

"In your mind, it may be so, but I am of a differing opinion." Shirou responded to Luvia, surprising her with the tone and power that was in it. "You've gone to such great trouble to make me fight you, I considered it to be improper to come in anything but my very best, so consider this as a way of showing my respect to you. " Luvia could see that he was serious, and the way Shirou smiled in a half-smirking manner made her feel like a bit uncertain of her own abilities.

"Combatants have gathered on the arena, we are now activating the Bounded Fields." The fields went up the moment it was announced. "As agreed by both parties, the duel shall continue until one of the parties is either unable to continue or has been eliminated entirely. All forms of Magecraft, martial arts and arms are permitted. Now, begin!" And the first move was made by Luvia, as she raised her right hand elegantly and pointed her finger at Shirou with a vicious smile.

"Now then, Muramasa, let's see if you can handle our family's specialty!" The next moment, dark purple magical ball formed at her tips, and then flew akin to a bullet towards Shirou, followed by five more like it.

"Gandr shots. I suppose we could start with a warm up." Shirou responded, before he too raised his hand and then fired bright red orbs of energy straight at Luvia's Gandrs, hitting all and dispelling them, surprising her and some others.

"What?! How dare you to use our very own techniques?!" Luvia shouted with indignation, before one flew right past her and hit the bounded field behind her, with Luvia having managed to move out of the way in time.

"Oh I'm sorry, did I just break a rule or something? Oh wait: there are no rules about it." Shirou responded with a chuckle, as Luvia fumed. "If you want to see something truly original, then you may want to take it up a notch or two." Shirou remarked to her, with Luvia nearly growling at him, before she brought up both of her hands with her fingers ready.

"As you wish! Now witness the true magnificence of the Edelfelt family and our true prowess!" Then she began to fire out of her fingers a veritable Kaleidoscope of jewels, charged up with magical energy.

"Is she… Is she firing those Jewels like from a machine gun?! What the hell is with this rich girl?!" Rin shouted in indignation, as she watched the jewels make their way towards Shirou, as he placed his hands on the handles of swords, before taking them off. "Is he going to fight back or not?" The next second Shirou moved out of the way from an incoming hale of jewels, dodging and weaving from Luvia's assault.

"Is he out of options already?" Reines asked aloud, with Gray shaking her head, as Shirou continued to dodge and weave away from the fire. "Why is he only dodging and not countering?"

"He is analyzing the situation." Gray said, drawing the attention of all. "He is trying to determine the limit of Miss Edelfelt's barrage, while also taking a more effective position." Gray said, as Shirou weaved and moved away, leaping and almost bouncing out of the harm's way.

"She is correct, all this time Muramasa wasn't simply dodging the attacks. He was closing the distance." Waver stated, as he noticed a certain pattern in his movements, having closed the distance between them, and stopped for a split second, as Shirou's hand moved. "That's it! He's using Runes against her now." And the next moment, several fireballs appeared and then homed in at Luvia, forcing to her disengage her barrage and move to dodge them.

"Ha! I'll admit that you make for a good acrobat, but you are a poor shot!" Luvia commented hauntingly, as she easily evaded with leaps and flips, with both fireballs missing her. "Honestly, you should probably stop even trying to…" Before Luvia could even finish, she felt as some sort of spell suddenly hit her, as she felt her Magic Circuits being disrupted, causing her to nearly lose her footing.

"Oh, so he went for the classical Disruption." Rin commented, as she saw Luvia shiver and nearly bite her tongue, making Rin smile.

"Disruption?" Gray asked aloud.

"A low ranking Curse, that causes affects Magi's Circuits and makes it harder for them to cast spells or use Magecraft." Waver explained, before they saw Shirou blitz towards Luvia, as she was overcoming her pain. "Under normal circumstance, it would be a right choice against long-range users, but in case of Luvia this may as well had been a bad one." Waver noted, as Shirou prepared for the attack, before launching it, intending to knock her out with a kick, only for Luvia to block his leg in the air with arm, before grabbing it.

"A valiant effort, but this is where it ends!" And so she then tossed Shirou into the air and to the side, proceeding it by launching herself with both her feet prepared to kick him, with Shirou bringing up his arms to block her attack.

Next thing he did was draw out his short sword and stick into the floor to stop himself from flying and then he twisted himself akin to an acrobat to reposition himself onto his legs, as Luvia landed and quickly regained her footing. With both on their feet again, it was Luvia's turn to move and she did not waste time, as she dashed to Shirou, seemingly charging him again, but the next moment he seemed to move towards her, she maneuvered to get behind him.

Shirou proved that it was not such a good idea, as before Luvia could lock her arms around him, he sent a kick towards her, which Luvia had managed to catch and prepared to twist his ankle. Before that could happen, Shirou jumped and kicked her with his other leg, landing on his arms and doing a back flip, before charging at Luvia and landing three solid hits on her stomach in a combination, before Luvia recovered and tackled Shirou to the ground, forcing him to land on his back, as she got right back up. Without wasting anymore time, she back flipped and sent four jewels flying towards Shirou, before they exploded, with smock and dust rising as she landed on her feet.

"I'll give you your due, it was good fight. A shame it had to be over so soon." Luvia stated, clearly showing far more respect to Shirou than she did beforehand, but as the dust cleared, she and all others saw Shirou standing, unscathed, and dusting off his cape, shocking Luvia. "Wh-what? How in the world did you survive that?" She asked of him, unable to process the fact that she did no damage to him.

"That? Oh, that was nothing, though you have some good moves. Let me guess, Lancashire wrestling?" Shirou asked with genuine curiosity, with Luvia too surprised to stop herself from nodding. "Thought it all was familiar. You and my Nee-san have similar tastes in wrestling, though she is more of a freestyle practitioner, mixing it in with other martial arts, to keep her enemies on her toes." Luvia was surprised with how casual he was, despite her nearly killing him just now, but she decided to instead bring this fight firmly to a close, as she felt her Magic Crest activate.

"No matter, this time I'll make certain to take you out for good!" Shirou heard an incantation in Finnish, as a special bounded field appeared all around him, making him lose his casual look. "And now, the Grande Finale!" Another incantation in Finnish, and out of every spot on the dome began to fly towards Shirou, making him kneel and cover himself in cloak, as the curses began to him.

"A combination of Gandr and Bounded Field?!" Rin looked in shock as she saw the area in which Shirou was in disappear in hale of curses. "C-can he even withstand it?"

"He is fine, Tohsaka-san." Arturia responded in an even and calm tone, surprising her. "Master is preparing to make his move." She stated, as the barrage had finally stopped, and the dome disappeared, with smock and dust pouring out, as Luvia breathed heavily.

"And so it ends." Luvia said, though clear regret was present in her tone and gaze, which she averted, not willing to see her work.

"I agree." She suddenly heard Shirou's voice, and before she could do a thing, Luvia felt herself freeze in place and unable to move a muscle, seeing as she stood within a magical circle, and the next moment, she felt her strength leave her and force her to drop on her knees, feeling like her muscles were filled with lead.

"H-how is this… No way…" Luvia looked up, as she saw Shirou moving to him before stopping before her. "Y-you are unscathed, but that spell… Every Gandr in it sh-should've…"

"Killed me, I know. Finn Shots, an upgraded version of Gandrs that can kill even Magi with one shot, but yours are something else entirely. Had I not come prepared, I'd be toast for certain." Shirou admitted to her, while also praising Luvia. "You could give Rin a run for her money, that's for sure, but I am not quite like most Magi, Miss Edelfelt, and you made a serious mistake in regards to me: you challenged me, thus giving me time to prepare. Had you been less honorable and respectful, I would've stood a lesser chance, but I can always appreciate a straightforward approach, even if it was forced one." Luvia widened her eyes at his declaration.

"What… What are you talking about?" She asked of him with shock in her eyes, with Shirou smiling to her, before disabling his curse.

"I may be new to London, but I've learned how to read people. You've put up a good show earlier, with all the indignation and blister, but you came off too strong and forced. You didn't care how, you just wanted me to fight you, so you provoked me, but after exchanging blows with you, I can see that it was an act." Shirou told her, as he offered her a hand to help rise up, with Luvia getting up.

"Why would you do something like that? Did you forget that we are enemies?" She asked of him, with Shirou smiling to her. "I just tried to kill you."

"Yes, but it is not you who is my enemy." Shirou told her, as he turned and looked to the other side of the arena, a serious look on his face. "I've been told that Magi would do anything to achieve their goals, but forcing your own flesh and blood into slavery is a new low for me. Truly, you are as despicable of a creature as you are remembered, Ainuterra Edelfelt." Shirou announced her name, and the very next thing that had happened, he, Luvia and the orchestrator of this entire charade found themselves in a seemingly entirely different world, one dominated by snow and wastelands, with the sky dark and menacing.

"Wh-what is…" At that very moment, Luvia felt her Magic Circuits and Crest go active and a searing unbearable pain coursed through her, causing her to scream and fall onto her hands, with Shirou kneeling near her, before placing several talismans on her, helping Luvia to bear through the pain. "Wh-what is th-this…" And at that very next moment, the veil dropped and the perp revealed herself in form of an unhealthily pale woman in her mid-thirties, bearing some resemblance to Luvia, dressed in black and ice blue dress, with her hair as white as winter, and her eyes as cold as ice.

"For all the potential and power you have, Luvia, you are nothing more than a failure! Useless, pathetic girl, good for nothing more than being a battery, like the rest of your worthless family." The Magus stated, as Luvia whined and winced from pain, as she felt Mana being drained from her, while the woman turned to Shirou, who stood up and put himself between Luvia and her. "So, the spawn of the Aozaki is smarter than he looks. Tell me, do you even comprehend who you are dealing with, boy?" She asked in a sneering and arrogant tone.

"Ainuterra Edelfelt, previous head of the Edelfelt family and elder of the two Edelfelt Masters who participated in the Third Holy Grail War, having summoned Saber as her Servant. But before that – fiancée of Hiryu Muramasa engaged to marry him by your families, yet he broken the engagement when he heard the news of his family's death and rushed back to Japan." Shirou responded, with Ainuterra scowling at him.

"That bastard had left me right at the altar, the day when we were to be wed, he ran off to that pathetic land of his, all to retrieve that Crest! I've followed him, and yet instead of welcoming me without regret, I found him in the arms of another!" Ainuterra shouted at Shirou. "That cheating bastard had dared to ally himself with that sow Runeas, instead of joining hands with me! Your grandfather had made me the laughing stock of all of the Moonlit World!"

"Yet had you even barely cared for him, instead of seeing him as property, you would not have allied with Zouken Matou, and even if you did, you would've helped him return his Crest." Shirou responded with steel. "But this was against your views and nature, and so without even thinking, you went after my grandfather, not because he was a Master, but because he had done something none dared do before: he defied you, and that was something you could never stand."

"If he was not to be mine, than he would be no ones, and damn his reasoning! I was to be the next Grand of the Clock Tower and head of the Edelfelt family, why was I going to let anyone have that which I wanted?" She asked of him in arrogant manner, as she locked eyes with Shirou. "I would've given your grandfather all he could ask for, the greatest treasure in the world in form of me, yet he spurned me and my affections, choosing instead that damned Crest and then that whore Venelana."

"Unlike you, she saw him as an equal instead of a toy, and understood him far more than you ever would, and that arrogant pride was your end, when he defeated both you and your sister, while Rider destroyed your Sabers." Shirou remarked with a smirk, as he saw Ainuterra clench her fists. "Anyone else would've moved on, but not you, Ainuterra. You couldn't stand being defeated, not you, not the supposed prodigy of Finland, and so you dedicated your life to wiping out this shame. Your pride and arrogance had driven you to do unspeakable and seek forbidden, shedding nature as human and becoming a Dead Apostle, all because you couldn't get over it. Truly, you are the epitome of pettiness."

"Pettiness?! You dare claim it to be pettiness?! You… You are just like them, Hiryu and that spawn of his your father. None of the… None of them had even an ounce of respect towards me!" Ainuterra shouted at him, as her features grew more inhuman. "My life was ruined because of you Muramasa!"

"And because of your pettiness you've decided to enslave your very own family through a special Geis curse. First you birthed your son, and after you became a Dead Apostle, you've essentially turned your family and all that would come after into your servants." Shirou continued, as the blizzard seemed to grow in intensity. "All in hopes of destroying the Muramasa line and killing Venelana, but you've encountered a problem- you were too weak to do anything, and even becoming a Dead Apostle didn't help you. And even when Tokiomi Tohsaka reached out an arranged an ambush with the Edelfelts towards my father, not only did you fail to kill him, but he nearly ended you. You needed 20 years just to recover your strength, and now you decided to try your luck against me. You used Luvia to draw me out and hoped she would end me, but in case that didn't work, you were prepared to step in with your Reality Marble, while using Luvia's Circuits and Crest as a battery to power it. You truly are an insidious creature."

"How very smart, you've actually figured it all out, but you've made a critical mistake by coming here, if you knew all that!" Ainuterra stated to him, as she began to manipulate the weather and created a hailstorm, with Shirou casting a ward around him and Luvia, protecting her. "It is the full moon today, boy, and in here, I am law and God!" She stated arrogantly, before she heard him laugh, confusing her, as he still maintained his ward, before he casted an unknown spell to her which cleared the hailstorm.

"You are law and God? And who decided that?" Shirou told her with a vicious smile, before he moved his hand to his hair, flipping the bangs back a theatric manner. "I will tell you what you really are, Ainuterra- you are just a pathetic leech that never grew out of her delusions. Let me show you, what true power is about." And in that very moment, Shirou blitzed Ainuterra with speed that was worlds beyond what he used against Luvia.

Dead Apostles were a step above normal humans in terms of pure physical characteristics, but even they weren't invulnerable or invincible, even within their own domain, as Shirou proved just now. Edelfelt vampire was able to see him coming, but wasn't able to fully react to him as he closed the distance and then drew out both of his blades at the same time, slashing her in four parts, shocking and causing agonizing pain in the process. It was something completely impossible in her mind, that she was struck just now and seemingly with such small effort, but Shirou wasn't done, as he recovered from his attack and went to town at his opponent.

His swords flew with the speed of lightning and seemingly slashed air, as Luvia saw Shirou become a seeming embodiment of death, slashing and cutting Ainuterra into pieces, and it seemed that not even her regeneration could keep up with it. Before a minute was over, Luvia felt the curse finally lifted off of her, which signaled the end of the nightmare that had gripped her family for decades and generations. When it was all over and all that remained of Ainuterra Edelfelt were severed parts and pieces of her body, the Reality Marble crumbled and disappeared, returning Shirou and Luvia back to the real world, where they were already expected. Flicking his sword clean of Dead Apostles blood and fixing his hair back into their previous position, he moved to the gathered crowed and regaled them with what had happened, confirmed by word and Magecraft by the Edelfelts to be true. To say that it came as a surprise for most would be an understatement, though some were made aware of it all well in advance, like his mother and Rin.

"The past head of the Edelfelt actually had the audacity to turn herself into a Dead Apostle, all because of her grudge against the Muramasa and Lady Runeas?" McDonell Trambelio, head of the Democratic Party and General Fundamentals Department, asked, with Shirou nodding to him as he finished summarizing the entire situation. "And how did you become aware of what really was going on, Muramasa?"

"I've had my suspicions the moment when Luvia approached and began to goad me, and she had provided me with where to start looking, so I've asked around and had my mother search notes of my father in regards to Edelfelts." Shirou explained. "As it turned out, my grandfather was actually engaged to marry Ainuterra, but wasn't able, and in the end was the one to defeat the Edelfelts in the Third Holy Grail War. Many years after, my father had an encounter with Ainuterra, who at that point had become a Dead Apostle, yet lost and had to flee for her life, though my father wasn't aware of who it was. Comparing words of Venelana with notes of my father, I arrived to the conclusion that Ainuterra was the one behind this entire charade."

"Good deduction, but what about the coercion part?" Inorai asked of him, curious herself.

"No self-respecting Magus would ever willingly associate themselves with a Dead Apostle and actively help it, while also being active with the Association, so coercion was the only answer." Shirou stated, before he turned to Luvia, who looked at him with eyes of shock and awe. "As for how I identified it as a Geis… I am the grandson of Hiryu Muramasa." Many among the Magi still recalled Hiryu Muramasa, a man who had broken over a hundred powerful curses in his time.

"It seems that the bloodline of Muramasa still remains as strong and potent as ever, despite all the tragedies that had befallen it." McDonell Trambelio noted with a nod. "It was exceptionally bold of you, Shirou Muramasa, but then again, you are Genji Muramasa's son and one clearly worthy to be his successor." He praised the boy, who only gave him a nod.

"Few Mages twice your age would be able to do what you did, but then again, you are son of my two greatest students." Inorai stated with pride, earning herself a glare from Touko, before she turned to Luvia, along with her parents. "Now then, I believe it is time that we had decided the fate of the Edelfelts."

"Wait, just hold on for a moment…" Luvia's father tried to speak up, but the Enforcers already appeared and surrounded him and his family. "Please, Lord Trambelio, let me…"

"Regardless of your circumstances, you had harbored a dangerous Dead Apostle, and assisted her in all actions. There can be only be one…" Before Trambelio could even finish the sentence, Shirou stepped forth before the Enforcers, putting his hand on the blade's handle, making it clear what his intent was. "Muramasa, what is the meaning of your hint?"

"What do you think, Lord Trambelio?" Shirou asked of him, with the Enforcers turning to face him. "Order them to stand down, Lord, or else there will be much blood spilled this moment." The sheer tone and power in it shocked many.

"And who are you to give us such orders?" Inorai asked of him with an amused tone.

"Have you taken leave of your senses, Enforcers?" Lord Lorelei Barthomeloi finally took word, and it was enough to make Enforcers stand down, as she turned her attention to Shirou Muramasa, who gave her a curt and respectable bow. "Shirou Muramasa, for what purpose do you put yourself in such position, ready to defend the family that had plotted your death?" She demanded to know, with Shirou responding.

"As strange and foreign as it may seem, Lord Barthomeloi, but I do not see them as my enemies, but only as victims of the foe that we shared, and that being Ainuterra Edelfelt, who inflicted far graver wounds and offences to them than she did upon me. For decades, Luviagelita and her family suffered and served her purposes, unable to do a single thing about it, not even hint." Shirou stood his ground, with the Edelfelts looking at him with shock, unable to believe that he would speak up for them, while he looked at the Lords and Magi around. "The last thing that they deserve is to be made scape goats by their supposed "friends" for reflecting badly upon them in something that they had no control over. And if this is how the Clock Tower normally operates… Then I've made a mistake in coming here instead of Atlas." Shirou's hint was clear as day for all, as most looked at him with clearest shock, while Touko and Venelana smiled at his show of force, before Lorelei spoke again.

"You have made a mistake, Shirou Muramasa, but it was not coming here. It was in assuming that I would not have the foresight to see the obvious and take the correct stance." Lord Barthomeloi told him, before she turned to McDonell and Inorai, now clearly showing her stance on the matter. "As the Head of Department of Policies and Vice-Director of the Clock Tower, I find the Edelfelt family innocent on the count of harboring a Dead Apostle, based on the provided evidences and word of Shirou Muramasa, 25th Head of Muramasa family. However, if you would wish to pursue this case further, Lords Trambelio and Valualeta, you may do so, but in an official and proper manner, as civilized and proper Lords of the Tower." Lord Barthomeloi's words were enough to dissuade any further prodding, and so Trambelio and Valualeta decided to take their leave together, but not before running into Venelana, who had a smile on her face.

"Leaving so soon?" Venelana asked of them, unable to help herself, with McDonell answering to her.

"There is nothing more for us to be found here, so you will have to forgive us, Lady Runeas." He responded, before adding. "Though I suppose you deserve praise, for you have raised a splendid new Lord Barthomeloi, and it seems your new ward is building a good rapport with her. Well played, Lady Runeas well played."

"You give too much credit to me, Lord Trambelio." Runeas noted.

"On the contrary. If anything we are grateful to for safeguarding such a fine gem of a Magus." Inorai's hint was clear to Venelana, as she and her ally moved past her. "Clearly, the son has every ability to surpass his father, though I do hope he'll not suffer same misfortune with his mother as Genji did." Inorai couldn't help herself, with Venelana not flinching at that, while Touko scoffed at her, as the two left the grounds for good.

"Lord Barthomeloi, you have my gratitude, and my humble apologies for my presumption." Shirou said with a bow to Lorelei, who eyed him with curiosity.

"Your apologies are unnecessary, Shirou Muramasa, but I commend you for your actions today." Lorelei responded to him. "I would know, however, how did you manage to accomplish slaying that vermin? No other Magus of your age, save select few, can hope to match a Dead Apostle, much less overwhelm and defeat them in their own Reality Marble."

"I've had good teachers and a clear motivation to train and learn, Lord Barthomeloi, and I've come prepared for the battle. As Lady Runeas taught me, true victory is achieved before the battle commences." Shirou responded honestly, with Lorelei accepting his answer, a hint of respect clear in her gaze, before it shifted to his swords.

"Your blades are not simple ones, are they? Demonstrate them to me." She demanded, and Shirou did so, presenting his swords to Lorelei, who looked appraisingly at them. "An adequate quality for a Muramasa, as expected from one of your pedigree. They are enchanted with Blessings, akin to ones' Holy Church utilizes." Lorelei stated.

"I am honored by your praise, and you are correct, Lord Barthomeloi." Shirou confirmed, before he sheathed his blades, with Lorelei satisfied with the answers she had gotten from him and out of this situation.

"In the past, both Hiryu and Genji Muramasa had served exceptionally to protect the Magecraft and humanity from threats of all kinds, be they known or unknown, free from the illusions of obtaining the Root." Lord Barthomeloi stated to him. "I would have you continue the tradition, Shirou Muramasa, so I offer you a place in the Department of Policies." The gathered here Magi were shocked to hear it.

"A generous offer, Lord Barthomeloi, but I fear that for the moment my priorities lay in the furthering of my own skills and knowledge, and I wish to dedicate my time to them." Shirou responded, before adding. "However, should the need arise, I will always be glad to lend my sword and skills to your cause, Lord Barthomeloi." Lorelei seemed satisfied with his response, hence why she nodded.

"An acceptable agreement. I shall send for you, when I find adequate use for you and your skills." Lorelei responded, as she prepared to leave. "When next we meet, I expect you to have grown stronger, Shirou Muramasa. I will not suffer complacency in those who I deem worthy of my interest." Shirou bowed his head in respect, as Lorelei left, and soon Shirou followed suit with his family.

---

A few hours later. Muramasa's London Estate.

"Well, I'd say that it all went well." Shirou said, as he and Venelana reached his new study, after Touko bid them goodbye and went to get some sleep, still unable to fully acclimatize.

"Fortunately it did, but I believe we had agreed that should Ainuterra reveal herself, you would leave it all to Caenis." Venelana reminded Shirou with an accusatory look. "Speaking of which, mind telling me what you were doing all this time, Lancer?" At that moment, Caenis appeared in a physical form.

"Well what do you want me to tell you, Ven? You know as well as I do, that Shirou here did not even need my help in there, and even with that Reality Marble of hers, Ainuterra was not even gonna be a challenge to him. She was an arrogant prideful bitch in the past, and becoming undead didn't really change that, only made her dumber." Caenis responded, as she looked at Shirou with a smirk. "He was aces all the way, Ven. You should be proud of him. Heck, considering who has been polishing his ass for the last couple of years, it should not even come as a surprise that he won. Now that I've seen him in action, I myself wouldn't want go a few rounds with him." To that Venelana could only let out a tired sigh, with Caenis laughing and seeing herself off in a spirit form.

"Shirou, I am… I just do not want you to put yourself into situations where you may not be able to win." Venelana told him with concern. "Your father and grandfather were both like that, bold and brave, unflinching and staunch in their views, but there are times when even daredevils need to be cautions. All I ask is that you take care of yourself and do not do anything as reckless as that, Shirou."

"I will do so, I promise." Shirou assured her, with Venelana sighing in relief. "And thank you for caring… Grandmother." Shirou said with a smile, seeing Venelana widen her eyes in shock when she heard it.

"Shirou… Wh-when, how…" Venelana was clearly unprepared to hear Shirou address her as such, but he simply smiled to her and answered.

"I had my suspicions from the start, but I only learned the truth when Kaa-chan first took me to see our house, where I found this." Shirou produced out of his pocket a locket, similar to the one the one that Venelana wore, with the woman near tears when she saw it. "Dad kept it, along with all the photos and letters you've exchanged. Even after everything, he still loved you, Grandmother." Venelana tentatively took the locket in her hands, before looking at her grandson with tears in her eyes.

"I… I had made many bad decisions, I pushed my son away, your father, and you, I… I wasn't there when both of you needed me the most." Venelana said with clearest of guilt in her tone. "I was so blinded with my pride that I… That I forgot what truly mattered. I've abandoned you, Shirou, and that…"

"You came to my defense against the Church, and even before that, you saved me and Irisviel from Alba, as well as Illya, Sella and Liz, not to mention you protected Rin. Without you, I would not have had the family I have now, and even after that, you were always there for me, whenever I needed a good advice or someone who could listen to me." Shirou told her, as he stepped closer to Venelana. "You never abandoned me, Grandmother, and there is nothing for to forgive you for, and father long since forgiven you for all. So let's just stop with this farce and be a family." Shirou told her, gently bringing his grandmother into an embrace, with Venelana reciprocating it, before she finally allowed her tears to flow and she cried on her grandson's shoulder, once more being with her family, with tears of joy flowing freely from her eyes.

---

Two weeks later.

Thankfully, the following two weeks were relatively peaceful ones for Shirou, as he had more or less settled into his new life in London, as Touko returned to Fuyuki, having decided that her son could use a bit of independence in his life from her. He was still in the care of Rin Tohsaka, with whom Shirou took classes in Modern Magecraft Theory and Mineralogy, while in home he was in care of his maid Arturia and in the Clock Tower Venelana watched over him as well. After the revelation, their relation only deepened and cleared and now the two did fully view one another as family, and Shirou was only happy that it was the case.

Having a free day from lectures, Shirou decided to spend it in his Workshop with a doing some free forging, such as billets, weld together stacks and so forth, for future works. After his performance, he was already receiving orders from all kinds of Magi and families for his work, but he had yet to accept a commission, feeling he best organize his forge and work first. Done with drawing out the last billet, Shirou looked at it appraisingly, satisfied with its quality and put it in the storage, just as he saw Arturia enter his Workshop.

"Master, you have guests. The Edelfelt family have arrived and are requesting an audience with you." Arturia informed him, with Shirou surprised to hear it. "Shall I inform them to come later?"

"No, I'll see them in a bit, just freshen up a little." Shirou told Arturia and she left to inform them, and after washing off soot and sweat and changing clothes, Shirou did join them in the living room, where he saw Luvia, as well as her father and mother. "Mr. and Mrs. Edelfelt, welcome to my adobe. Miss Luvia, how is your health? I hope you are feeling better since the incident." Shirou said, noticing a small blush appear on Luvia's face.

"Y-yes, Muramasa-dono, thank you for your concern." Shirou had hold a chuckle at the way she addressed him. "I… I am touched with your concern."

"Well I am glad that you are doing better, and please, you can drop the honorifics. How can I help you?" Shirou asked of them, as he sat on the sofa next to them, as Arturia served him tea.

"Shirou Muramasa, we haven't been properly introduced, so allow me to first correct that mistake." Luvia's father, a man of strong Nordic features, spoke with respect, as he introduced himself and his family. "I am Henri Edelfelt, 19st head of Edelfelt family, and this is my wife, Elizabeth, and my eldest daughter, Luviagelita. I apologize for the absence of our youngest daughter, Fayerina. She… She is still recovering from the damage done by my mother."

"You have my sympathies, and I hope she will make full recovery." Shirou responded. "Though I still do not understand why you wished to see me."

"We wished to offer our heartfelt gratitude to you for what you did for us, Mr. Muramasa." Elizabeth Edelfelt, a comely woman of English origin with golden hair and ember eyes, responded. "Not only have you freed us from the nightmare of Ainuterra, but you've even went as far to protect us from Lord Trambelio when he wished to use us to cover up his humiliation. Had it not been for your intervention, I fear our family would be gone already."

"You overestimate my part in that, since I do not think any Lords would've cared for my words, and you should really be thanking Lord Barthomeloi and her fair judgement." Shirou responded as he thought. "And as for Ainuterra, it was the right thing to do, so there is no need for gratitude in that. I was only happy to have helped."

"No need for gratitude? You had saved our family from death and slavery, protected us when even our friends have turned, and you do not consider it to be worthy of praise?" Luvia asked of him with clearest shock in her voice. "After all the terrible things I had said of you and your family, and my actions, you still went out of your way to protect and help me. How can you be so modest, when you have earned every right to be praised and rewarded?" She asked of him.

"Please forgive our daughter's outburst. Luvia has always been rather forward and vocal in her beliefs and thoughts." Henri said with a sigh, while Luvia grew red in the cheeks. "Still, she is correct. What you did for us… No other Mage would even think of doing something so selfless and right, not without expecting some kind of reward or a favor."

"I've been told I am not exactly a conventional Magus, and I would've done as I did either way, had there been a reward or not." Shirou told them. "I just hope that we can put all our past grievances behind us."

"That goes without saying, naturally. We would like nothing more than move forward into the future." Henri assured him, before he produced a document of sorts to Shirou. "But, as a symbol of our gratitude and a way to settle the debt we owe you, Shirou Muramasa, please accept this." Shirou took the document and read it, quickly discovering what it was.

"A Geis scroll… Mr. Edelfelt, if I am not mistaken in its meaning, you are essentially placing yourself and your family in full in vassalage to me." Shirou said, as he put the document onto the table. "Could you elaborate as to why you would do such a thing?"

"I… I had spent my whole life being a slave to that monster, and had passed the same fate onto my wife and daughters, unable to do anything to stop her. You can't imagine the nightmare we had to live in, Mr. Muramasa, and I doubt you can fathom the relief you've brought us." Henri told him. "There is no such thing as charity in the Moonlit World and among the Magi, and your actions that night had saved us, but we are now without allies and friends. Association with Dead Apostles, willing or not, is not quite well looked upon, when discovered like it was with us. It would take years for us to rebuild the connections and restore our name, but we cannot forget the debt we owe you, and this… This is the only way in which I can see myself settling it in a square manner."

"And are your wife and daughters in agreement with it? What if I were, in theory, suddenly decide to take your eldest daughter as a concubine?" Shirou suddenly posed them this question with steel, while Luvia had a blush and looked away.

"I-if it were to h-happen, I-I would not object to it, M-Muramasa-dono. I know I would be i-in good c-care w-with you and…" Luvia said with clearest embarrassment, with Shirou letting out a sigh, before he took up the contract, and then used Magecraft to burn it to ashes, surprising all. "M-Muramasa-dono?!"

"First off, please, you don't need to call me dono. You can call me simply as Muramasa or Muramasa-san, if you wish. Second, while I can see where you are coming from, Mr. Edelfelt, I am not prepared to do such a thing to you, even if I were to be a benevolent master, but I am not a Lord or sovereign. I am a blacksmith and a seeker of my own dream, not someone who would wish to squash other's freedom and dreams." Shirou told them, surprising and touching Luvia and her family greatly. "However, as a compromise to alleviate your worries, I am willing to become friends with you and your family."

"You… You offer us friendship when I had offered our servitude to you?" Henri asked of him with shock, Shirou rose up to his feet, before offering him a hand.

"As I said, I am not like that, sir, and I'm always ready to make new friends, and despite all that happened, I feel like we could be good ones. So what do you say?" Shirou asked him, and Henri with his family rose up, and he took his hand, shaking it with a smile.

"I… We graciously accept your magnanimous offer, Muramasa-san." Henri responded with a smile.

"You may call me Shirou, as all my friends do." Shirou assured them, with Luvia trying to say it.

"Shero, is this right?" She asked before trying again. "Sheiro… Shenro… Sherou! Oh, this one right?!" She asked in an excited manner, with Shirou chuckling at her attempts.

"Not quite, but if you would like, Ms. Edelfelt, I'll be happy to teach you Japanese." Shirou offered to her, with Luvia taking his hands in hers.

"No, I will not have my dear friend call me Miss. Please, address me as Luvia, and only as such, for we are now friends!" Luvia told him with a smile.

"As you wish, Luvia." Shirou smiled to her, feeling that this was going to be a beginning of a good relationship, and hopeful, that she and Rin would get along famously.

---

Oh Shirou… You poor unfortunate soul, if only you knew just what Pandora's Box you are going to open, when these two meet and realize, that they are both after you. Hope Clock Tower's insurance is up for it…

But anyway, this actually went a bit off the rails from my original plans, but I thought it would a good way to demonstrate just how strong Shirou really is, because remember, he had YEARS of training under some of the top ranked people in Nasu-verse. Plus he semi-regularly spars with Gilgamesh, a freaking Servant, who without even his NP can body any normal run of the mill Dead Apostle. Not to mention Shirou's Origin actually helping his body, which it actually does, adapting him to more challenges, aka, practically making him strong enough to stand up to any challenge.

Hope you enjoyed this chapter and will give your opinion about it in the review, as well as offer you suggestions about the future events, possible romance options for the harem, and ask questions about the future events or story. Your contributions help make this story better.

Next time: Lectures and peacekeeping; First case with Snake Lady

See ya!