Well, continuing from the previous message, it's a pleasure to know that many people have enjoyed my stories, so I've decided not to abandon them. Greetings from your friend, KaleidoMirror. I'm trying to update and improve my stories, and I'll see if I can update some of them in the future. For now, I'll bring you the improved and revised versions.
In this message, I present Part 3, which is the other half of the previously published Chapter 2, which has been modified and properly adjusted. You can also come in and read the new updates and improvements, except for my Tokyo Ghoul story; I still haven't found my original documents for it.
Edited, Beta-Read, and Revised by: Hero of Justice Roxas
This version is brought to you by a great friend, Hero of Justice Roxas, who made this project possible. I'm truly thankful, and I appreciate the effort and care put into this work.
Greetings to all.
Shirou opened his eyes, and like the mists of a distant dream, the fragments of his recent memories dissipated in his mind. He couldn't fully grasp them, but that only increased his curiosity and the questions swirling in his head.
In the dimness of his room, shadows danced on the walls as he struggled to discern the reality from the reverie. Were these fragments of his past? If they were, then his own story was filled with twists and turns he had yet to uncover.
With a sigh of frustration and resignation intermingled, he reached out and picked up an apple from the nearby table. Each bite was a thought lost in a sea of uncertainty as he gazed at the sunset that painted the sky with golden and orange hues through the balcony window.
He noticed that some of the bandages covering his body had been changed, and the pain that had previously tormented him had yielded ground to the passage of time and care. He took a deep breath, trying to gather his thoughts, and his gaze fondly landed on the sword in his hand. It was the sword of the man who had visited his room a few hours ago, a man whose presence he had felt but whose intentions were not entirely clear.
With smooth, fluid movements, Shirou let the sword disappear into the ether, as if it were a fleeting echo of power. Despite the uncertainties surrounding him, his resolve remained intact, and his gaze shifted to the room's main door. He eagerly awaited the meeting he would have with the Lord of Glory City, a meeting that could reveal more about his own past and his fate in this unfamiliar world.
The news of the sudden awakening of the mysterious young man had stirred the waters in Glory City, unleashing a storm of suspicions and rumors about his possible allegiance to the enigmatic Dark Guild. The current leaders of the city's seven major noble families were restless and eager for information. Political intrigues and secret alliances wove a web in which everyone sought an advantage.
Even Nie Li, who had witnessed the power of the unknown youth in his battle against the Abyss Demon and his brave act of saving the inhabitants of Glory City, harbored doubts about him. His tumultuous past and the betrayals he had faced in his previous life had left deep scars on his soul. He couldn't trust and place his hope in someone blindly, especially in turbulent times like these, without being able to discern the risks that could lead to fatal outcomes.
In Nie Li's heart, trust was not easily granted, even if someone had demonstrated noble intentions. He had learned that genuinely altruistic people were as rare as precious gems, and he had only known one person who helped others simply out of the desire to do so. This fact remained unchanged, whether in the past or in the future. However, before jumping to conclusions, he knew he had to investigate more thoroughly the nature and circumstances of the mysterious youth.
Accompanied by Ye Zhong and Ye Xiu, he had prepared a contingency in case the situation turned adverse. Furthermore, Elder Gu Yan, although lacking significant combat power, had deployed numerous soldiers in nearby buildings near the town hall, ready to intervene if needed. Nie Li himself also had some tricks up his sleeve that could be useful in restraining the young man and getting answers if peaceful dialogue proved unsuccessful.
However, an unexpected complication arose when Ye Ziyun refused to leave his side, arguing that her injuries still weakened her and that she would be there to protect him if the situation turned hostile. Her determination remained firm despite her father's pleas, and Ye Zhong, aware of the dangers, finally reached an agreement with his daughter to withdraw if any conflict arose.
As Nie Li approached the door of the mysterious young man's room, he knocked several times without receiving a response. Despite the lack of immediate danger signs, he remained on guard, inspecting the room for any hint of threat. Instead, he was surprised by the large number of materials and medicinal items carefully arranged on shelves and tables. It was evident that someone had been working diligently in the room.
His eyes shifted to the strange clothing the unknown youth had worn during their first encounter. The dark-colored and red pieces seemed to be more than simple common garments, and the impression the red-haired individual had left during the battle suggested there was something exceptional about them. Although the clothing remained a mystery, Nie Li decided to set aside that curiosity momentarily and focus on the resident of the room.
The young man seemed to be in a state of contemplation, gazing fixedly at the horizon through the window. The gentle breeze that entered the room rustled the white fabrics of his clothing, creating an ethereal aura around him. At that moment, the eyes of the unknown youth met those of Nie Li, marking the beginning of a new chapter in this mysterious story.
Nie Li found himself in an unfamiliar territory, a land where his past and present life intertwined in a symphony of mystery and opportunity. Despite his vast previous experience, he had never seen eyes like those of the young man in front of him. They were sharp, cold, like dormant steel blades, waiting for the right moment to be unsheathed and reveal their deepest secrets. Nie Li, aware of the tension hanging in the air, decided to break the ice.
"It seems this is our first meeting, don't you think it would be appropriate for a brief introduction before we begin any discussion?" he said in a friendly yet firm tone. He didn't wait for an immediate response from his guest and continued, introducing those present, "I am Nie Li, and these are my companions: Ye Zhong, the current City Lord; Ye Xiu, a prominent member of the Icewind family and Ye Zhong's right-hand man; Gu Yan, the current president of the Alchemist Association; and we have my friends Ye Ziyun and Ning'er. And you, what is your name, friend?"
Emiya Shirou's response was silent, accepting the introduction with a nod. However, Nie Li didn't let appearances deceive him and kept his guard up. Although the young man showed no obvious signs of hostility, Nie Li knew that appearances could often be deceptive, and he preferred to get answers before lowering his guard.
Shirou, with a calm demeanor, finally spoke, "My name is Emiya Shirou." His voice was gentle but resonated with confidence. Nie Li noticed the change in his expression as he suddenly furrowed his brow, further piquing his curiosity.
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Emiya Shirou. We have come with many questions that we would appreciate if you kindly answered," said Nie Li, maintaining a friendly yet vigilant attitude.
Emiya's friendly demeanor remained for a moment before he sighed, "If it's within my capabilities, I will answer. But I would like you to answer my questions truthfully as well."
However, Ye Zhong intervened with a firm and questioning tone, "You are mistaken if you think we will answer without first confirming our doubts about you! It doesn't matter that my father, the protector of Glory City, rescued you in the Forbidden Ruins!"
Shirou remained calm, simply bowing deeply to the people in the room and responding with composure, "I greatly appreciate your hospitality and kindness in rescuing me, as well as treating my wounds. I see that you have put a lot of effort into my care, so I will kindly answer any questions you may have." His voice was firm, but there was also a touch of evident frustration in it.
"But I also have trouble speaking about myself, so there are a couple of things I would like to confirm first. I hope I can rely on your help, Lord of this City."
It was that small detail that the young man shared that put Nie Li on guard. "Inconvenience? Could you explain it to us in a simpler way?"
For the first time since they had seen him, Shirou's expression changed, his brow furrowing deeply. "You may not believe me, but my past is full of gaps, and I have no clear memory of how I got here. Furthermore, since I woke up, I have come to understand that we are in a place called Glory City, and I have never been to a place like this before. I can safely remember that I come from a completely different place."
The expressions of everyone were different, a deep silence had taken hold of the room. Emiya's confession had left them so surprised that it took them a few moments to process what he had said. Ye Zhong was the first to express his position.
"How dare you try to mock us?" His voice was enough to convey his annoyance and clear frustration.
"I assure you I am telling the truth; I have vague memories of my past, except for my name and my dream, my other memories have been altered," Shirou's expression remained calm despite the City Lord's outburst.
Silence filled the room as everyone processed Shirou's revelation. Nie Li could feel the tension in the air, and his mind began searching for answers. Shirou's confession had caught him by surprise, but he didn't miss the opportunity and pressed for more answers while the iron was hot.
"In any case, what is that dream you speak of, Emiya Shirou?" Nie Li asked, trying to better understand the young man in front of him.
Shirou's expression remained unwavering, and his voice conveyed a determination that surprised everyone in the room. "My dream is to become something... that can be called a hero of justice."
Nie Li felt something inside him resonate with those words. He vaguely remembered a time from his childhood when his father used to tell him stories about legendary heroes, filling him with dreams and aspirations. It was a distant memory, a fragment of his childhood that had been forgotten for a long time. His father's words used to begin like this: "The secret of every man is to always protect what he considers most important."
Although the circumstances were strange, and doubts still lingered, Nie Li felt that he could trust Emiya Shirou a little, at least in the conviction they shared: the desire to become a hero of justice.
Nie Li understood that, to achieve effective communication with Emiya Shirou, they first needed to pave the way for mutual trust. So he stepped forward, offering his hand as a gesture of goodwill and sincerity.
"I understand your motivations, Emiya Shirou, but we still need some answers about you," he said with a sincere smile. "I promise, by the name of the Heavenly Marks Family, that I will answer all your questions honestly if you decide to cooperate with us and share everything you can remember."
After a moment of reflection, Shirou reached out to shake Nie Li's hand, thus sealing a silent pact of trust.
With the tension in the room gradually dissipating, Nie Li decided to proceed with the questions.
"If you agree, we'll start from the beginning," he proposed. "We'd like to know everything you can remember about yourself."
Shirou took a deep breath before beginning his narrative. He spoke of a tragedy that had marked his life.
"To be honest, the only memories worth mentioning are those from the moment before I met my father. My life began after he saved me," his voice resonated with a mix of sadness and determination.
"What do you mean by that?" asked Ye Zhong, whose eyes reflected deep contemplation.
"I lost everything I had in a massive fire that devastated my hometown when I was seven years old," Shirou continued. "The exact cause of the fire was never discovered. Every time I try to remember that night, a scene of destruction replays in my mind. Cries, screams of pain, pleas... They are all perfectly clear in my memory. Over five hundred people lost their lives in that fire, including my biological parents, whose bodies were never recovered."
The room fell into silence, filled with understanding and sorrow for the tragedy Shirou had endured. Ye Ziyun looked at her father with sympathetic eyes, while Ye Zhong and Ye Xiu absorbed the story.
Shirou broke the silence. "You don't need to have that expression on your faces. I was the sole survivor of that tragedy, and though it may sound cruel, I was fortunate compared to the others."
Although his words were meant to console those present, Nie Li could see in Shirou's eyes an indifference that concealed a deep scar.
Nie Li spoke empathetically, "Even though you were the sole survivor, it doesn't diminish the burden you carry."
Shirou nodded, and his voice revealed some of his life philosophy, "I may have lost everything, but I will always hold on to my dream of becoming a hero of justice."
Nie Li and the others present recognized the determination in Shirou's words. Despite his painful past, he continued to pursue his ideal steadfastly.
Gu Yan, the elderly president of the Alchemist Association, praised Shirou's strength. "Young Emiya Shirou, these may be just the words of an old man, but experience has taught me that death is just another path that everyone must tread. When the gray rain curtain of the world opens and turns into iron and glass, it reveals a beauty that can only be found beyond. That beauty is hope."
Shirou's expression turned introspective as he pondered the elder's words. The encounter with Nie Li and the others had opened a door to a new chapter in his life, and hope was beginning to light his way.
Shirou stood there, absorbed in Gu Yan's words. The elder looked at him with a satisfied smile, seemingly content with having imparted his wisdom to the young man. The room was filled with an air of respect and admiration for the alchemist elder.
From that moment on, the atmosphere in the room changed. Both the young and adult occupants began to see Gu Yan in a new light. The alchemist went to a nearby table and skillfully retrieved a teapot and a thermal infusion stone from his storage ring.
With skilled and fluid movements, he selected various ingredients and once again pulled a couple of leaves from his ring. In a matter of minutes, a new aroma mixed with the medicinal scent that permeated the room.
Gu Yan expertly poured the tea into porcelain cups, and Ye Ziyun and Ning'er took care of distributing them among the room's occupants. Ning'er approached Shirou cautiously, as the intriguing young man was still lost in thought after his conversation with Gu Yan.
"Would you like a cup of tea?" Ning'er asked kindly.
Shirou looked up, surprised by the sudden change in the room's tone and the young woman's offer. She held a cup of hot tea in front of him, despite her previous suspicions.
"I would love to. Thank you," Shirou replied with a sincere smile as he accepted the cup from Ning'er's hands. She smiled and gracefully withdrew.
With the tea cup in his hand, Shirou contemplated its contents. The tea had an intense golden color and a sweet, pleasant fragrance that filled his senses. He took a sip and felt the warmth of the drink relaxing his muscles and giving him a sense of comfort.
"That was really enjoyable, Elder Gu Yan. Still, if it's not too much to ask, could you teach me your tea recipes?" Shirou asked with interest.
Gu Yan nodded enthusiastically. "Of course! I'm glad to hear that you enjoyed my tea. The secrets of my technique can be challenging for a beginner, but seeing your enthusiasm, I'm sure you'll quickly grasp the basics, Young Emiya."
The satisfaction on the elder's face was evident, and Shirou felt that he had made a genuine connection with him. While enjoying their tea cups, Shirou decided to share more about his past with those present, feeling more relaxed and willing to open up.
"I was adopted after that fire, and my adoptive father's name is Emiya Kiritsugu," Shirou announced solemnly. His words filled the room, and everyone present listened in silence, completely absorbed in his story.
Shirou closed his eyes as he recalled the scene of the fire in his mind, vividly reliving every detail. "My memories are fragmented, but I can still remember that moment as clear as day. I can still see the fire spreading everywhere, among the ruins of what I once called home, I found myself desperately clinging to life, even though I had stopped believing in miracles. I had resigned myself to my fate. In the last breaths I had left, I raised my hand, trying to reach someone, wishing with all my might that someone would help me. At that moment, I didn't feel any different from the hundreds of charred corpses in that purgatory. I think I was beyond salvation, an impossible survivor, found by a man who was crazy enough to break into that disaster without dying. To this day, I don't know what the true miracle was."
Shirou sighed as his eyes gazed out the window at the sky, as if seeking answers in the clouds. "That was the moment when I first met him. I can still vividly remember my father's face when he saved me, so full of joy and relief as tears streamed down his face, and he uttered all kinds of words of gratitude. I admired him back then, and I still do. To this day, I don't know why he thanked me when he found me. I can vividly remember the feeling of happiness I felt when he saved my life. That happiness is the reason I decided to follow in his footsteps and be like him."
Ye Ziyun, with a shy smile on her face, asked with curiosity, "Since your father saved you, have you always aspired to be someone like him?"
Shirou nodded with a serene smile. "I've always admired my father. That's what started me on the path to fulfill the dream he couldn't achieve, an ideal passed down from parents to children." Placing his right hand over his heart, he recalled Kiritsugu's peaceful smile on that fateful night under the full moon. "I'm aware of how childish it sounds, and I know that my life will be full of hypocrisy, but despite it all, I've decided that my resolve is firm. I want to become a ally of justice, to save others."
The room was filled with a strange mix of emotions as everyone in the room processed Shirou's words. From shock to disbelief that someone so young could believe so strongly in such an idealistic dream.
"I won't lose to adversity," Shirou continued, his voice filled with determination. "That was the moment my life changed, a new beginning for me. I entered a new world that I had never before imagined possible, a world that had only existed in my dreams and fantasies. My father revealed to me the existence of Magecraft, as he was a magus".
"Magus?" Nie Li asked, furrowing his brow as his mind struggled to recall any relevant information about that term in his memories. But he found no clues. "Is it some kind of ability or trick?"
Shirou nodded with an enigmatic smile. "In a way, yes. Magic is the ability to achieve what is possible through science, but by supernatural means. It's the ability to channel and convert the magical energy that resides within us to influence the external world, performing processes that, in many cases, would seem miraculous and surpass what is considered possible."
Nie Li was left gaping at this revelation. In his two lives, he had never heard of such an ability. Shirou's words echoed in his mind as he tried to grasp them. The fundamentals described by the young mage were not entirely foreign to him; in some way, they resembled the cultivation process he himself had followed to integrate the power of nature into his Soul Realm and form a spiritual sea.
However, the differences were evident, both in quality and integration method. Nie Li felt a growing curiosity and decided to delve deeper into this new and fascinating discovery.
"You've been talking about magical energy all this time, but I'd like to better understand the concept you're referring to," Nie Li expressed, his mind restless and filled with questions.
Shirou nodded and delved into his thoughts, seeking the best way to explain a concept that often proved complex for those unfamiliar with it.
"We could say that magical energy is the ability to perform sorcery, which results in the manifestation of supernatural phenomena," Shirou began to explain, choosing his words carefully. "However, its effectiveness varies depending on several factors. One of these factors is a special form of energy called [Mana], which is produced by the world itself. It's the life force of the planet and exists in large quantities, constantly renewing over time. But there are also special cases, such as some creatures that have the ability to release this same energy in astounding amounts."
As Shirou spoke, Nie Li absorbed the information, attempting to grasp the depth of what he was learning. The world unfolding before him seemed vaster and more mysterious than he had ever imagined. The idea of channeling this magical energy and performing sorcery intrigued him greatly, and he began to glimpse the infinite possibilities unfolding before him.
At that moment, the place they were in came to life in his mind. The environment took on a new dimension as Nie Li imagined the secret and mysterious corners of the world where magic and magical energy were an integral part of reality. The details of the surrounding landscape became more vivid in his mind, from the centuries-old trees swaying gently in the breeze to the strange creatures that might be hidden in the depths of the forest.
The conversation between Nie Li and Shirou continued, delving ever deeper into the complexities of magic and magical energy, and the world opening up before them seemed to expand without limits.
Shirou let out a sigh as he tried to recall more details to share with Nie Li. The conversation had become a journey of discovery for both of them, and he was determined to provide the clearest explanation possible.
"Mages also possess a form of life force, similar to what is found in all living beings, whether they are humans, animals, or plants," Shirou began. "Additionally, within our souls, we harbor something unique: magic circuits, which are like spiritual pathways capable of producing a special type of energy. This energy is inherently magical, and our ability lies in absorbing energy from the surroundings and transforming it into a form we can use in magic."
Nie Li nodded as he listened attentively, absorbing each word like a gem of knowledge. He was beginning to grasp the complexity of this magical world unfolding before him. The analogy between magical energy and his own knowledge of [Celestial Energy] was intriguing, as both represented a power linked to divine laws and energies of a higher level, imbued with unparalleled purity.
Despite this connection, he still had questions about the nature and limitations of magic, which seemed separate from [Celestial Energy], inaccessible in the Divine Continent and its Subsidiary Realms due to the influence of laws on a higher plane of existence.
"What is the purpose of developing Magecraft?" Nie Li asked, his voice filled with curiosity.
The question took Shirou by surprise as he sought a way to address Nie Li's concerns. He took a moment to choose his words carefully.
"The primary ambition of most mages is to reach what is known as the [Root]," Shirou began. "Many of them dedicate all their efforts and experiments exclusively to discovering a path to it."
"The Root... What does that mean?" Nie Li asked, his eyes shining with interest.
"To be honest, the Root is a concept of which I have limited knowledge, but I know some things about its true name," Shirou explained. "It is sometimes referred to as the Swirl, the Akashic Records, or simply an esoteric place that some refer to as Heaven. The Root represents the origin of the [force] present in all planes of existence and serves as the [source] of all events and phenomena that occur in the universe as a whole."
As Shirou spoke, Nie Li sank into his thoughts, trying to grasp the magnitude of what he was learning. The Root seemed to be a fundamental concept in magical cosmology, a mystery that held the secret of existence itself. The world unfolding before him became increasingly intriguing, and his desire to explore it and unravel its secrets grew with every word from Shirou.
If everything Shirou had shared was true, a shadow of suspicion began to creep into Nie Li's heart, a suspicion that had been forming and growing since the beginning of their conversation, turning into a palpable unease.
In the depths of his Soul Realm, the enigmatic vine that had started to grow a few days ago twisted restlessly. Unbeknownst to him, Nie Li felt how this mysterious presence reacted to Shirou's words, as if it had awakened from a deep slumber.
"Do magicians who have truly reached the [Root] exist?" Nie Li asked with a glint of curiosity and unease in his eyes.
Shirou nodded solemnly. "Strictly speaking, I have never known any magician of the current era who has achieved such a capability. However, there are individuals with the power to perform what we might consider true magic."
"True magic..." Nie Li murmured the phrase as if it were a mysterious incantation echoing in his mind.
Shirou continued with an introspective look. "True magic is a mystery that transcends the power of conventional spellcasting. It allows the accomplishment of the impossible, defying logic and limitations. It is something that lies entirely beyond the reach of any other means, regardless of time or resources invested. True magic can only be performed by those who have reached the [Root] in their quest to unveil the 'Truth' that lies in the universe."
Nie Li ran his hand through his head, trying to grasp the magnitude of what he was hearing. He closed his eyes for a moment, immersed in his thoughts, before continuing the conversation.
"My father used to say that if a magician could catch a glimpse of the Root and not get lost in its own mystery, they could 'touch the root' without the world erasing their existence. As long as they followed the path that led them to the discovery of the Root, they would gain the ability to understand true magic, a magic that is unique and unrivaled in the plane of existence. The magician would gain the power to completely erase the concept of 'impossibility,' granting them what some would describe as 'God-like Abilities.'"
"God-like Abilities!?" Ye Zhong exclaimed, his trembling voice reflecting his incredulity. Both Ye Xiu and Gu Yan looked at Shirou with expressions of amazement. From the beginning of the conversation, Ye Zhong had decided that Nie Li would lead the interrogation. Despite his personal reservations about Nie Li's intentions toward his daughter, he couldn't deny the impressive contributions and achievements the young man had made.
Although he felt uncomfortable with the topic of his daughter, he knew he would have to address it in the future. At that moment, he couldn't ignore Shirou's words or the abilities that this young man named Emiya Shirou had demonstrated, especially now that he mentioned a way to acquire god-like abilities.
"You said you've never known a magician with god-like abilities, but do you know if anyone has reached the Root?" Ye Zhong asked with a mixture of anticipation and hope in his tone. For several years, his progress in cultivation had been stuck at the peak of the Black Gold Rank. His desire was to follow in the footsteps of his father, who had surpassed mortal limits and reached the Legendary rank.
The pursuit of that rank was not driven by personal greed but by the determination to protect humanity's last hope: the only human city left in the world, constantly threatened by relentless attacks from demon beasts.
Shirou observed Ye Zhong's expression, and both Elder Ye Xiu and the president of the Association, Gu Yan, shared his anticipation.
Nie Li, by his side, looked at him seriously, while the girls in his group exchanged nervous glances. Shirou sighed, trying to organize his thoughts once more.
"To be honest, it's a difficult topic to explain. I have no detailed memories of individuals who have become Magi in their own right. However, I can confidently state that there have been five possessors of that title."
Shirou's gaze grew deeper as he continued.
"First, you must understand that spellcasting can be defined as the exercise of human wisdom using supernatural means. The process may be considered miraculous, but the result always lies within the scope of human understanding. True magic, on the other hand, transcends that and can never be replicated through human knowledge or wisdom."
Nie Li interjected after a brief silence. "I thought you had established a clear definition of magic, but now I'm confused by the previous explanation."
Shirou nodded, acknowledging Nie Li's confusion. "You're right. My memories of magic are, at best, incomplete fragments. Even explaining it now is a challenge for me, but I will try to be as clear as possible."
Shirou continued his explanation, delving into the mysteries of true magic, and his tone revealed a mixture of knowledge and confusion.
"Magic focuses on the study of phenomena, human creations, and the cycle of life on the planet. But true magic is different; it's considered the providence of a god beyond the heavens. Obtaining it is an irrefutable crime against humanity and the planet itself. You can imagine the terrible personal repercussions someone has to endure when they reach the Root. It triggers a counterforce, and many who succeed in gaining their newfound magic are hunted by an entity known as the 'red shadow.'"
"What do the terms 'Counterforce' and 'red shadow' mean?" Ye Zhong asked, showing clear intrigue and curiosity at this new revelation.
Shirou looked down with a downcast expression and shook his head. "Honestly, I don't know. There's something telling me they are of utmost importance, but I have no clear memories of them. Frankly, I'm not sure of their meaning."
The adults began to converse among themselves while Nie Li carefully analyzed the details provided by Shirou.
"Now we can grasp some differences between true magic and spellcasting, but we'd really like to know more about the capabilities of true magic that you're aware of," said Ye Xiu, revealing his fascination with the subject.
Shirou sighed before continuing, struggling to share the fragments of knowledge he possessed.
"As for the five great magics, I can vaguely remember their existence, but I have no details about their users." His words were like fleeting flashes of forgotten knowledge. "Let me explain some memories I have about the first magic. It's known as 'void magic' and is related to the artificial creation of 'void,' allowing the materialization of the concept of nothingness. The second magic is called 'parallel worlds operation,' granting the user the ability to move between parallel worlds and harness the powers of beings from those worlds. The third magic, known as 'heaven's perception,' allows the materialization of the soul and halts its inevitable dispersal, elevating it to a higher form of existence. As for the fourth magic, I have no specific details, but it is said to possess overwhelming power. The fifth magic has the ability to time travel, linking the concepts of 'consumption' and 'extinction.'"
Silence fell over the room as everyone absorbed the information provided by Shirou. The words resonated in their minds, opening the door to a world of possibilities and mysteries they had never before imagined.
The surprise and disbelief in the eyes of the adults reflected the nature of their thoughts. Ye Ziyun and Ning'er, on the other hand, were left speechless. But the most surprised of all was Nie Li. He was still assimilating the impact of Shirou's new revelations about the scope of true magic.
If he had any doubts before, they were clear now. Everything Emiya Shirou had mentioned was another way of referring to the "Laws" themselves, as well as presenting a new possibility of gaining access to their domain. The power of the Laws was the energy cultivated by the most powerful Gods and Demons of antiquity, a total of seventy-two Laws. However, the "Origin" of all that power was something jealously guarded, and all possible information was lost with the decline of those beings during the battles of creation.
In his past life, Nie Li could only obtain incomplete ancient records and uncertain legends about a place where that power apparently originated, forming only a fragment of an entire unknown history that had never been told and remained hidden by the sands of time. But now, with this new information, he couldn't help but speculate about the full extent of the powers of magicians. Although their capabilities might be unknown, he couldn't underestimate them.
Above all, the extraordinary abilities that Shirou mentioned exclusively for magi left a deep impression on him. He had many unanswered questions in his mind, but seeing the still perplexed expressions of those present, he decided that he should first talk to Ye Zhong and Ye Xiu to clarify some of his doubts.
He also needed to reassure Elder Gu Yan, whose curious expression reflected his enthusiasm for asking even more questions. They had deviated too much from the main topic. He looked at Shirou with anxiety and discomfort.
"Emiya Shirou, I will speak on behalf of everyone present and say that we are grateful for explaining spellcasting and magic without hiding anything. For now, we will focus on something more important: the reason we came here in the first place. We would like to know more about you."
Emiya seemed to understand what Nie Li was implying and, despite his discomfort with the interrogation, decided to continue with his story.
"I have already told you a little about the circumstances I was in before being adopted by my father, Emiya Kiritsugu. To be honest, I had a relatively normal life for a year after being adopted. Even though my father had no virtues for household chores, he proved to be truly admirable in other areas. Although he was not the most suitable tutor during magical training, he tried to teach me some basic lessons."
Shirou forced a smile as he recalled images of Kiritsugu burning dinner or explaining his limitations as a novice magician. Those memories, bittersweet and endearing, transformed his smile into one filled with nostalgia.
"He sounds like a really nice father," commented Ye Xiu about Emiya Kiritsugu, surprising Shirou. He watched as Elder Ye Xiu's attention focused on Ye Zhong, who smiled nervously as the City Lord.
He decided to set aside his personal matters and continued with his story, thanking Ye Xiu for the compliment.
"Thank you very much for the compliment. But not everything developed positively for me, as I was only an adopted son of the Emiya family and didn't have the opportunity to inherit my father's Magic Crest. I also lacked the innate talent that develops through generations of magicians dedicated to perfecting the best magic circuits for their descendants."
"What are Magic Crests?"
Ning'er's unexpected question surprised everyone present, and Shirou did his best to explain in a clear and straightforward manner.
"To put it simply, Magic Crests are the most important treasure of magicians, being the legacy of their family since its founding. They are a magical pattern engraved on the magician's body. Crests can take a variety of forms but represent the magic circuits inherited from a blood relative, usually from the father or ancestors."
Elder Gu Yan's genuine curiosity led him to ask another question.
"Why do magicians create these Magic Crests and why do they pass them down to their children?"
Shirou shared what his father had taught him and explained in detail.
"According to what my father taught me, at some point in the magician's life, they forge their magic circuits into the Crest inherited from their predecessor, storing a large amount of information as well as the spells they learned in life, and then pass all of that on to their descendant. Since this process repeats with each generation, the older the lineage, the more circuits make up the Crest and the amount of knowledge stored in it. It is the duty of any heir to successfully expand and pass on the Crest to the next generation. Hence the importance of the Crest, as it allows the series of inherited magic circuits to enable family members to more stably perform the innate thaumaturgical ability of magicians."
Ye Zhong's sincere sympathy for Shirou's situation became evident.
"It is indeed unfortunate that you couldn't inherit your father's Magic Crest, young Emiya." His words reflected a deep understanding of the importance and meaning of Magic Crests in the world of magicians.
"Although a Magic Crest has many benefits, the process of inheriting it is akin to the act of transplanting an internal organ, so the donor must meet very strict requirements," explained Shirou.
"Could you give us some examples?" Nie Li asked, showing interest in better understanding the process.
Shirou frowned as he tried to recall the details. "Among some of the requirements is a blood connection with the magician, as well as the fact that it's a process that takes place slowly during the heir's childhood so that their body gets used to the presence of the Crest as they mature."
"From what you've said, I can infer that there have been issues with inheriting the Magic Crest, haven't there, Emiya?" Nie Li questioned as he analyzed Shirou's expressions.
"I'm afraid the situation is as you think, Nie Li," Shirou replied with regret. "The Magic Crest is a highly valuable object for any magician, despite the risks it carries. Usually, only one person can inherit it, and difficulties can arise when there's more than one available candidate. It's not uncommon for bloody disputes within a magician clan to arise because of the family shield. It was for this and other reasons that many families opted to follow the current trend of having a single heir, as well as the subsequent policy of abandonment or exclusion of less talented children."
"That's cruel!" Ye Ziyun exclaimed with anger and pain, showing her turbulent emotional state. "The way magicians think is completely inhumane," she added indignantly.
However, Ye Zhong intervened to offer a different perspective. "Actually, it's not, Ziyun."
This surprised Ye Ziyun, as her father seemed calm despite the harsh reality they were discussing.
"Father?" she asked, perplexed.
"It's logical to avoid disputes to ensure the family's continued survival," Ye Zhong explained. "Isn't it the same concept our clans follow when it comes to our own secret techniques? Or isn't it just a situation where one's treasure could lead to their ruin if not properly planned for the future?"
The adults nodded solemnly, and Ye Ziyun clenched her fist in frustration as she faced Ning'er's concerned look and Nie Li's understanding sigh.
"I agree with you on that, Miss Ye Ziyun," Shirou affirmed as he nodded. Then, his expression turned serious as he shared one of his father's fundamental teachings. "But one of my father's earliest teachings was about the dangers of spellcasting, especially the most important rule for any novice magician."
"And what would that rule be, young Emiya Shirou?" Elder Ye Xiu asked with interest.
Shirou stared, his face adopting a stoic expression as he spoke the words seriously. "To be a magician is to walk with death."
"What do you mean, Emiya Shirou?" Nie Li's question showed his confusion at Shirou's words.
Shirou took a moment to gather his thoughts before responding. "It's important in every magician's life that the actions or paths we choose to take can lead to different destinations. Every spell we use or learn could fail and even lead to death with the slightest mistake. So, due to my circumstances as an adopted child, I couldn't inherit my father's magic shield because that would have meant my premature death due to my lack of compatibility."
He looked out the window, contemplating the landscape outside. "That's why I had to focus on my magical training to compensate for my shortcomings. Although his teachings were informal, as Kiritsugu had no sincere desire to instruct me in spellcasting, in the end, I only managed to obtain superficial knowledge of spellcasting."
The looks of everyone present focused on the young man as he took an orange from a tray near his bed and skillfully peeled it. "I didn't understand my father's motives until today, but it seems his reluctance to teach me was because he wanted me to lead an ordinary life away from magic. Or maybe it was because of my unique spiritual origin as a [Swordmaster] and my equally unique elemental affinity, which is [Sword]. This would explain why, as a novice magician, I couldn't perform basic spells, let alone manipulate the five great elements due to my lack of natural alignment."
"It seems you've gone through quite a few hardships in your training as a magician, haven't you, Emiya Shirou?" Nie Li commented with a smile full of empathy, recalling his own challenges with his natural talent for cultivation due to his red-soul realm nature.
"You said it yourself, Nie Li. It took me more than five long years, but I finally managed to learn how to use [Reinforcement] and [Projection], even though they're just two of the most basic spells on the path of sorcery. Through constant effort, I improved my skills in them to the point of successful mastery," Shirou said with pride in his voice.
"Your perseverance is commendable, young Shirou," expressed Ye Zhong, impressed by the young man's efforts.
"It was really tough to control the spells at first. Despite not having a magical lineage, my father discovered that there were magical circuits within my body that indicated my biological parents had been involved with sorcery in the past. To begin using them, my father had to awaken those circuits directly by administering them with his own magic. I still remember the pain that followed that awakening," Shirou continued as he gazed at the room's ceiling.
"The problems kept getting worse. My lack of guidance in sorcery led me to use my newly awakened magic circuits as channels and anchors for casting spells. My recklessness about the delicacy of all this resulted in adverse reactions, turning my nerves into new independent magic circuits by mistake. I had to endure pain that far exceeded the sensation of an iron bar melting along my spine."
"Those rules you mentioned seem much more fitting now," commented Nie Li with mild frustration, feeling sympathy for a dedicated fellow.
"No sacrifice is in vain. You can always achieve your goals if you set your mind to it," added someone else in the room, echoing Nie Li's words.
The occupants of the room nodded in agreement, acknowledging the arduous path Shirou had walked in his magical training.
Shirou nodded slowly as he continued to share his story.
"You're right, Nie Li. It's because of my stubbornness over the years that I managed to perfect the spells I practiced. The [Reinforcement] spell allows me to enhance the effectiveness of objects, as well as their durability or utility. I also learned [Structural Analysis], which allows me to understand the structure and design of objects I analyze as if I were looking at blueprints. On the other hand, [Projection], although a high-level spell in terms of control, is generally considered useless compared to Reinforcement due to the high cost of magical energy required to project an object. However, with this spell, all the objects I projected initially turned out to be useless and hollow. It took a lot of practice to make the objects mimic the form, although they could easily be identified as fakes at first glance."
Ning'er, despite her confusion, understood and sympathized with Shirou's experience due to her elemental affinity and her history of superhuman effort.
"Although you talked about your motivations and ideals earlier, what was it that allowed you to overcome everything and keep going? I don't understand," she expressed her confusion.
Shirou reflected for a moment before responding. "To be honest, in many ways, I'm still out of my depth, and to this day, I'm still learning new things. Even my conviction isn't as strong as it may seem."
He let out a nostalgic laugh as he shared his inner thoughts. "I'm aware that, despite all I invested in my magical training and the suffering I endured, even to the point of passing out from the pain of nerve injuries, I did it because I had decided to follow my ideal."
The expression on Shirou's face showed confidence as he shared his story. Ning'er, though still conflicted by Emiya Shirou's words, was surprised as she looked at the young man before her.
However, her expression changed, and she smiled, remembering her past when she suffered in lonely training nights, enduring the pain of her illness.
"However, not long after, I had to bid farewell prematurely to my father," Shirou shared.
"Did your father pass away?" Ye Ziyun asked, her lips pressed together, showing nervousness and sadness on her face.
"Yes, my father was ill for a long time due to a curse that slowly consumed his life," Shirou replied.
"What were your father's last days like?" Ye Zhong asked, squinting his eyes as he tried to imagine the person Shirou had mentioned. Everything Shirou had shared about Emiya Kiritsugu had left a good impression on the gentleman.
"My father's last days..." Shirou sighed, imagining the image of a sick and exhausted man. "There were moments when he told me about his dream. My father, Kiritsugu, was a man who had a simple dream he pursued since childhood: he had always dreamed of being a ally of justice. But unfortunately, in his final moments, he gave up on his ideal."
"Yes, my father realized that being a hero of justice has a limited time frame and becomes more challenging as one ages. Among his many regrets, he wished he had realized it sooner," Shirou explained with a sad smile.
"I understand that reason, but something else happened, didn't it, Shirou?" Ye Zhong asked, puzzled.
"You're right, Mr. Ye Zhong. I don't remember the exact reason, but during a certain night, we both found ourselves outside our house gazing at the stars. My father was different at that moment; he felt weary as he told me about the failure of his childhood dream. However, it was that night when I last spoke with him. I promised him that he could rest easy because his dream was in my hands, and I would take care of making it come true in his place. Perhaps those words allowed my father to die in peace," Shirou said, with a tone of resignation in his voice.
Ye Zhong absorbed the story while Ye Xiu and Gu Yan contemplated it in silence. Nie Li recalled his own conversation with his father on a lonely night and remained silent.
"That's why I continued training on my own, despite having no guidance. The memories after his death are blurry, and unfortunately, I don't remember anything else from that time," Shirou concluded, placing a hand on his forehead as he recalled the terrible pain he had endured hours before passing out. His breathing quickened, and a feeling of exhaustion washed over him, causing him to slump onto the bed.
Elder Gu Yan moved quickly and took Shirou's pulse as he assessed the symptoms in his body. "It seems to be a strange reaction within his body. I can sense that the strange energy I noticed the last time I treated young Emiya Shirou has disappeared, but it has left consequences. Furthermore, I sense a slight chaotic sensation in his heart."
Then, Elder Gu Yan went to the shelves and took some brightly colored vials before heading to the central table, where he picked up some pills from a worn-out box. He returned to Shirou and offered them.
"You should consume these later. With each meal, take a Golden Chrysanthemum Elixir and a Body-Warming Pill every day for at least a week. Their medicinal effects will create quite an effective synergy that should be enough for your body to recover and completely dissipate the toxins lodged in your heart," advised the elder.
"Thank you, Elder Gu Yan," Shirou replied as he consumed a pill and felt its effects spreading through his abdomen and coursing through his body.
Ye Zhong assessed Shirou's condition and suggested, "In my opinion, it would be best to pause our questioning here. It wouldn't be fair for young Shirou to continue unless you don't mind, of course."
"If it's okay with you, I have no problem continuing, but there are some things I'd like to ask you," Shirou said, looking at Ye Zhong, who assumed a relaxed posture.
"For me, it's fine. What's it about?" Ye Zhong replied.
"I would like to know the name of the country where Glory City is located, its continent, and all the geographical information you can provide. I'd also like to know if you've heard of the name Fuyuki City, located in Japan, on the Asian continent, or the planet called Earth."
The expressions of those present in the room barely reacted to the mention of Shirou's hometown, his country, or the continent. It was even more illogical that they didn't react to the name of the planet Earth.
Frustration had been building up in Shirou since he woke up in this world. Although he had confirmed that this place was called Glory City, a tearing feeling had haunted him since he glimpsed the memories of the old guard when he wielded the sword.
Letting out a sigh he didn't realize he had been holding, Ye Zhong looked at Nie Li, who had been silent for a few minutes.
Ye Zhong cleared his throat and began to explain, "I'm sorry to tell you this, young Shirou, but this is Glory City, located in a valley surrounded by extensive mountain ranges that form the Ancestral Range. It is on the Divine Continent, one of the six continents that make up the Tiny World. The surrounding mountains have served as a natural barrier that has protected its inhabitants throughout generations. However, this city is humanity's last stronghold and has suffered constant sieges from demon beasts."
Again, Shirou's expression had changed. He was completely still in his place, losing all color from his body, feeling like his world was crumbling as he processed the information.
"I think you've realized, Shirou, that for some reason, you've ended up in another world, a world very different from the one you know."
For the first time since his long silence, Nie Li spoke with a deep tone.
The impact of that statement finally confirmed Shirou's suspicions. At first, everything was too obvious—the sensation upon waking up, the difference in the amount of energy in the air, as if the age of the gods had not yet ended. Although there was also the possibility of time travel or being in some parallel reality, at least those were his initial assumptions since he had glimpsed the sword of that old guard. He wanted to believe in those possibilities.
But apparently, that wasn't the case. He had arrived in a completely different world from his own, and the implications of that revelation were overwhelming. However, his name was Emiya Shirou, and even in the face of the unknown, he wouldn't give up his sense of justice. His thoughts focused on how he could contribute in this new world.
Letting out a sigh, he looked up, noticing the presence of Nie Li alongside Ye Zhong, both of whom had approached until they were in front of him.
Ye Zhong, with a proud expression, said to Shirou, "You may feel alone right now, but you didn't hesitate for a second to save the citizens of Glory City, showing a courage I've never seen in another boy your age, apart from Nie Li."
Nie Li added with a mischievous smile, "You can trust that my friends and I will have your back." Then, he gestured to the two girls in the room, who smiled encouragingly.
Nie Li continued, "I need to introduce you to some of my closest friends." He recalled Lu Piao and Du Ze, as well as other equally dependable friends. "Elder Gu Yan, as the current President of the Alchemist Association and an incredibly reliable ally, also personally took care of your injuries," he added as he placed his hand on Shirou's left shoulder.
Despite the bewildering situation he found himself in, Shirou began to feel a genuine connection with these people. While he was accustomed to distrust and fake smiles, the authenticity of his new friends moved him. For the first time since arriving in this world, he could genuinely smile without worries.
However, what Shirou didn't know was that his presence in this world was destined to significantly change the course of events. The gears of destiny had been set in motion toward an unknown and possibility-filled future.
I deeply appreciate the effort and love that my friend put into correcting the chapter. Thank you very much, my friend, Hero of Justice Roxas.
See you later, my friends. KaleidoMirror bids farewell.