[The next day, 8 p.m. in Fuyuki City]
"Ah, so this is Fuyuki City," Otakemaru remarked, his voice carrying a hint of intrigue as he stood atop a towering building, his gaze sweeping over the sprawling urban landscape.
A sense of awe colored his perspective as he observed the city before him. It was a sight to behold, a tapestry of modernity and advancement that left an indelible impression.
Unlike his cherished Mt. Suzuka, a place he believed to be unparalleled, this world showcased a different kind of beauty. The city's intricate architecture and well-designed structures resonated with a sense of sophistication that intrigued him.
He could not help but draw parallels between this city and his past. Memories of his human life resurfaced, a time when he existed under a different name, before the mantle of Otakemaru was bestowed upon him. He was a normal human being, living a simpler existence.
The transition from human to Oni, although initially challenging, had become an integral part of his identity. The name Otakemaru, once chosen almost arbitrarily, had become synonymous with power and dominance-a fitting appellation for the formidable being he had become.
The name Otakemaru held significance beyond its mere sound – it was a choice rooted in power and legacy. It had been adopted deliberately, a homage to the mightiest Oni he could recall from his memories.
Yet, as he gazed out over Fuyuki City's landscape, his mind drifted to another time, another life. A wistful longing tinged his thoughts as he contemplated what could have been.
The idea of sharing his current experiences with Kani Hime, Kujira, and his comrades from days gone by filled him with a bittersweet nostalgia. Laughter, camaraderie, and shared moments painted a vivid tableau of cherished memories from his past on Mt. Suzuka.
A soft smile curved his lips, an echo of the joy he once experienced as a young Master, surrounded by friends and allies. The moniker they affectionately bestowed upon him played like a melodic refrain in his mind, a reminder of simpler times and the bonds that had shaped his identity.
Returning his focus to the present, Otakemaru's attention shifted to the energy that permeated the city – a life force referred to as Mana in this world. While it didn't rival the potent energies of places like Mount Suzuka, Mount Ibuki or Takkoku-no-iwaya, Fuyuki City held its own reservoir of Mana.
Particularly in certain corners of the city, like Ryuudou Temple and Mount Enzou, Otakemaru could sense the distinct presence of Mana. It pulsed within these locales, an intricate weave of energies that hinted at the interconnectedness of nature and mysticism.
However, amidst this vitality, he couldn't help but detect a contrasting undercurrent – a wellspring of negativity that surged with an intensity akin to a venomous serpent. This malevolent energy, rich with hatred and darkness, emanated most potently from Central Park.
As he contemplated the potent negativity, a predatory smile curled upon Otakemaru's lips. He weighed the prospect of harnessing this powerful force. Despite his unparalleled might, he remained acutely aware of his own limitations. The allure of this negative energy, with its promise of strength, tugged at his thoughts.
Could he, the demon god, harness this force to grow further into even stronger existence?
His half-closed eyes betrayed a depth of contemplation as they fixed upon the dark expanse of Central Park. The notion of growth through the absorption of such malevolence danced on the fringes of his consciousness, mingling with the tendrils of curiosity that often guided his actions.
The morning had marked his arrival in this new world, with his Master at his side. An interesting human... No, interesting would not be correct, but "unique" intrigued him. Otakemaru reflected on her uniqueness, a quality that defied human common sense.
Observing the world around him. His Master actually came from an ordinary Magus family, if he remembered correctly. And she was very surprised when she had the Command Spells in her hand. An innocuous sign that hinted at his true nature.
She was a paradox, embodying both innocence and a latent monstrosity. As ruler of all Yokai, Otakemaru had crossed the spectrum of humanity and the supernatural.
Although she can show true kindness and gentleness, she can also tear your heart out with an angelic smile if she so desires. Crazy innocent woman... She was better than an innocent monster and even more relevant.
He still remembered the moment when her blue eyes met his, he could immediately tell what kind of person she was, and he also knew that Otakemaru knew the real her.
"Hmm... Is someone occupying that lofty edifice?" Otakemaru's attention was abruptly captured by the presence of a young woman, her hair a cascade of raven hues tied in distinctive double tails. She adorned a crimson, long-sleeved dress, and beside her stood a man characterized by spiky white hair, bronzed skin, and a striking ensemble comprising a red coat and black armor.
The conclusion was unmistakable – they were his fellow participants in this Holy Grail War. The historical context was inescapable; only a Servant would dare to don such armor in this era
Or so said the information received from the Grail, and without delay he activated his Presence Concealment, blending in perfectly with his surroundings and becoming an invisible observer to the pair... Their purpose became obvious: a reconnaissance mission, to identify observation points suitable for future confrontations.
Will he face them all today?
*Hmm...*
"No..." Otakemaru chuckled as a big predatory smile appeared on his lips. "I still want to enjoy this city, this is War after all. Why take it in a hurry? I still have many things I want to do, plus it will be good to see their completely desperate faces when they know they have no hope of victory against me..." He said as he stood up and snapping his neck, he shifted his eyes to another direction near him.
He smiled when he saw a blue-haired figure with a spear sitting in a building not far from him, "Why not? Just a battle to see if I'm still good at establishing the feeling of fear in my opponents. Let's see if this war can prove entertaining enough to be worth using for my future plans..."
[Interlude]
[Lancer aka Cú Chulainn POV]
My day took a sour turn, to say the least.
When Bazett summoned me, I felt a rush of excitement. She understood me – my need for a worthy challenge, a good fight. Unlike my current Master, who seems to lack the guts for it.
The Grail itself doesn't interest me much; it's the battles that do. But my new Master has been holding me back, restricting my power and telling me to explore instead of engaging in combat. I grit my teeth, feeling the frustration surge as I remember the days with Bazett.
Kirei Kotomine, the architect of my current predicament, is someone I can't stand. He's responsible for this mess.
A strange voice interrupts my thoughts, and I snap my attention toward it. What catches me off guard is that I didn't sense anyone approaching. It's disconcerting, to say the least.
"For a human being, you radiate such murderous intent..." The words hang in the air, and I realize I'm facing an unknown entity. My grip on my spear tightens, and I'm on high alert.
I turned swiftly, my gaze locking onto a man who leaned casually against the wall, arms crossed in a nonchalant manner. A wild aura surrounded him, perhaps in his early twenties. His short, spiky white hair framed his face, and his eyes held a golden hue – an intriguing sight, but...
"Are those two horns atop his head?" My mind raced as I blinked in disbelief. His attire consisted of a black sweatshirt, beneath which a long-sleeved black jacket was visible. The lower half of his ensemble comprised long white pants and black shoes.
Instinctively, I twirled my spear and assumed a battle-ready stance. This man was undoubtedly a Servant; I felt it resonate within me. But why didn't I sense his presence before?
"Who are you?" I inquired, my voice laced with caution.
His response was a serene smile, his posture gradually straightening. "A servant ready to fight, at your disposal..." His words were deliberate, followed by a momentary pause before continuing, shifting his gaze to the lance. "Lancer..." He concluded with a smile that, for some reason, seemed somehow familiar and sent shivers down my spine.
"...That explains why." I murmured, my expression sober as I regarded him. A moment later, my tone grew impassive as I posed a question that lingered in the air. "What manner of Servant engages in battle clad in civilian attire?" The curiosity was tinged with skepticism; it was an unconventional choice that intrigued me even as I remained vigilant.
"And what kind of hero wears spandex?" Otakemaru asked, tilting his head in a cute way.
"Hey! This is a suit of armor! Can't you see it? It's flexible, too!" Lancer defended himself by extending his hand to show it, then pointed at Otakemaru with his finger accusingly. "You are even stranger! What kind of Servant doesn't wear any defensive equipment when he takes to the battlefield!"
"I am merely acquainting myself with the modern era," he responded casually, a faint smirk gracing his lips. "And, you appear rather feeble."
I was ready to respond, but my words faltered when I realized that I did not know how strong the opponent in front of me was. "How arrogant you are, I like you!"
Grumbling under my breath for not being able to say it myself first, I gave him a stern look. "But enough with the jokes; let's drop the words."
A smile played upon his lips, an enigmatic expression that hinted at a deeper understanding. Without haste, he took measured steps forward, almost as though he sought to alleviate his own ennui. "In truth... I find the words in battle quite distasteful..."
Gazes locked in an unspoken exchange, we readied ourselves for the impending clash. Our postures spoke volumes, a silent language of intent. As we faced each other, our eyes – his shining gold and my piercing crimson – met, an unwavering exchange reminiscent of the purest, most precious elements the world had to offer.
[Interlude]
[Third Person]
The battle erupted with a thunderous impact as Otakemaru lunged forward, his monstrous strength cracking the floor beneath him. Lancer reacted swiftly, his spear intercepting the incoming strike with a resounding clash. The force of the collision sent shockwaves through the air, each combatant momentarily locked in a contest of power.
But Otakemaru's relentless assault did not waver. With a fluid motion, he twisted his body, redirecting his momentum into a follow-up blow. Lancer's keen reflexes came into play as he deftly evaded the strike, the rush of wind brushing past his face.
Seizing the opportunity, Lancer shifted his stance, his leg propelling him forward in a fluid motion. His spear became a flurry of motion, aimed directly at Otakemaru's head. The rapid succession of forward stabs created a barrage of lethal strikes, each aimed with unerring precision.
Otakemaru's eyes narrowed as he met the onslaught head-on. His endurance proved to be a formidable defense, his body absorbing the impact of Lancer's strikes. The clash of metal against metal echoed through the air as the two warriors engaged in a frenzied exchange.
Lancer's movements were a testament to his agility and finesse, his calculated strikes aimed to find a weakness in Otakemaru's defenses. Yet, the Oni's sheer strength and resilience allowed him to weather the storm, his body withstanding each blow without yielding.
The battle continued with an intensity that defied prediction, a dance of combat that shifted between moments of calculated strategy and pure instinct. The surroundings bore witness to their struggle – debris scattered, the ground bearing the scars of their clashes.
Otakemaru gracefully evaded Lancer's spear thrust, contorting his body to slide beneath the lethal arc. Seizing the opportunity, he launched an uppercut, a burst of force aimed at Lancer's chin.
Lancer's instincts kicked in, propelling him backward to narrowly avoid the powerful blow. A grin of exhilaration had just begun to form on Lancer's lips, a testament to the enjoyment he found in the battle, when his expression abruptly shifted to shock.
A searing pain erupted across Lancer's neck, blood cascading from the fresh wound. His hand instinctively shot to his throat, fingers coated in his own life's essence.
What met his gaze was the arm of his opponent, was a grotesque transformation – his once-human hand had morphed into a monstrous claw, the wickedly sharp appendage a stark contrast to his former self.
"You noticed, didn't you?" Otakemaru's voice was matter-of-fact, his gaze unwavering as he explained his unsettling ability. The monstrous claw he had displayed underwent a swift alteration, becoming slender and almost innocuous. "One of my abilities is to modify my body," he elucidated calmly, his words a chilling reminder of the peril that lurked within the fight.
A shiver coursed through Lancer's frame as he absorbed the implications. A formidable adversary had just revealed another layer of his lethal arsenal. Otakemaru's subsequent declaration sent a surge of adrenaline through Lancer's veins. "Next time, it will be in your head..." The threat hung in the air, each syllable laden with the weight of impending danger.
Lancer resettled into a battle-ready stance, his thoughts racing as he contemplated his next move. The battle had escalated, the fun heightened.
Despite the dire circumstances, a smile graced Lancer's lips. The thrill of combat coursed through him, an exhilaration that transcended the looming threat. He was a formidable adversary, a fact Lancer had come to appreciate.
His thoughts meandered, pondering the significance of his opponent's strength, the mysteries of his abilities, and the enigma of his identity.
Otakemaru surged forward, his hands grotesquely transformed into large claws. Lancer mirrored his motion, both combatants launching themselves into the fray with a resounding clash.
A symphony of collisions echoed through the air as they engaged in intense hand-to-hand combat. This time, Lancer took the offensive, capitalizing on his increased speed and showcasing his superior spear skills.
Otakemaru's movements were a blend of evasion and calculated defense. He skillfully dodged incoming attacks, or when necessary, positioned his body to absorb the blows. He couldn't help but notice the potency of Lancer's spear, its edge capable of slicing through his flesh – a sensation he hadn't experienced in a long while.
Swift and agile, Otakemaru leapt and weaved through Lancer's and a well-timed twist, he delivered a powerful blow, only to be met with the pommel of Lancer's spear, deflecting the attack. As Otakemaru descended, he swiftly kicked off the ground, landing in a crouched position before launching a counterattack.
Lancer's spear spun in his hands, seamlessly intercepting Otakemaru's clawed strikes. The clash of their weapons reverberated in the air. Lancer's determination was unwavering as he seized an opening, launching a swift sharp attack.
Otakemaru's form shifted, narrowly evading the strike before countering with a powerful heel kick, leveraging Lancer's spear as a fulcrum.
Lancer's smile grew as his strike reached Otakemaru, but his expression quickly shifted to one of surprise and alarm. His eyes widened as he lost sight of his opponent, and the only perceptible clue was the faint sound of crackling electrical discharges.
However, experience honed through countless battles allowed Lancer to react swiftly. He spun his body around, spear at the ready, detecting a presence behind him. As he turned, his eyes fell upon Otakemaru, who had once again transformed his arm into grotesque hammer-like appendages.
*BOOOOM!*
Their weapons collided in a fierce clash, the impact resonating in the air as an intense parity settled between them. Yet, Otakemaru refused to accept a stalemate.
He channeled all his might into his transformed limb, emitting a ferocious roar as he exerted his strength. Lancer was forcefully propelled backward by the overwhelming force, hurtling through the air until he crashed into a nearby building several meters away.
The building absorbed the impact of the collision, crumbling from the sheer force of Lancer's collision. Otakemaru landed on the ground, a mixture of irritation and rage coloring his expression. He gazed at the spot where Lancer had been sent flying, his monstrous appendages gradually returning to their normal state.
Emerging from the rubble of the building, Lancer stood tall and unharmed, a triumphant smile on his lips. It was evident that his attack had not inflicted significant damage on him.
Looking at Lancer's appearance, Otakemaru's surprised expression turned into a smile, and he gradually toned down his aggressive attitude, letting his bloodlust subside.
His next words, however, seemed to confuse Lancer. "You're holding back," Otakemaru stated with his eyes half-closed, a sense of impatience evident in his tone. "Why?" he pressed, clearly expecting a battle rather than a simple exchange.
Lancer found himself displaced by the question and frowned momentarily. Finally, he let out a chuckle. "You noticed that, huh? Good for you. Actually, I don't want to hold back, but my ... annoying Master has made me weaker," he explained, with a hint of irritation in his voice as he recounted his situation.
"You also have problems with your Master, I see..." Otakemaru nodded, understanding the sentiment. He, too, had had problems with his Master, though he hoped his words would have some effect on the girl.
Lancer, intrigued, asked, "Are you facing the same thing?"
Otakemaru shrugged nonchalantly. "I do have a minor issue with mine, but at least it hasn't hindered me in combat," he replied, his tone indifferent. "Well, if you can't give it your all right now, then there's no point in fighting further," he declared with a sigh, indicating his willingness to disengage from the battle.
Lancer nodded in agreement. The truth was, he was indeed constrained by the command spell, rendering him incapable of achieving victory over Otakemaru.
Otakemaru's predatory grin grew wider as he posed a question, his anticipation palpable. "Can you give it your all in the next battle?" he inquired, his excitement evident.
Lancer's brow furrowed slightly as he considered the question. "Well... my Master has forbidden me from defeating any opponent for now. But, considering it's just the initial match..." A smile tugged at the corners of his lips, a glimmer of determination in his eyes as he nodded in affirmation.
Satisfied with Lancer's response, Otakemaru's smile persisted. "Excellent. You're a seasoned warrior. It would be a shame to end your life in this compromised state," he remarked, his gaze fixed on Lancer.
As Otakemaru turned to depart, Lancer couldn't let him go without saying something. "Wait!" he called out, his voice carrying a mix of curiosity and interest.
But to his misfortune, it was already too late. The sound of lightning crackling filled the air as Otakemaru vanished, leaving Lancer's call unanswered.
After a moment, Lancer let out a sigh, his curiosity and interest momentarily left unresolved. He couldn't help but smile, however, a mix of emotions swirling within him.
"Maybe this war won't be as dull as I initially thought," Lancer mused quietly to himself, a glint of hope shining in his eyes as he prepared for the battles that lay ahead.
And with this little warm-up battle between two mighty heroes of mankind's past.
The great Holy Grail War had officially begun.