Chapter 2 - The Blacksmith

Shirou's world was colored with dancing flames that devoured everything in its path. Confusion and worry took over his being as he found himself in the middle of a desolate destruction, without understanding the origin of such a heartbreaking scene.

Among the shadows of chaos, she glimpsed Arturia's figure and her heart sank into an abyss of despair.

Arturia lay on the ground, her figure overshadowed by fatal wounds that Shirou couldn't help but stare at in anguish. Without thinking about the flames that licked the surroundings, he rushed towards her with the heartbreaking urgency of someone trying to defy her destiny. But it was too late, the reality of the tragedy was slipping through his helpless fingers.

A heartbreaking wail escaped Shirou's lips, a scream filled with pain and frustration. He cursed himself in the darkness of sleep, feeling the weight of guilt crushing him. "I couldn't protect her," he whispered through tears that blended with the flames that engulfed his dream environment.

The dream reached its peak when, in a desperate attempt, Shirou spoke Arturia's name with the force of a breaking soul. "Arturiaaa!" His voice echoed in the nightmare, a cry muffled by suffering and helplessness.

It was then, amidst the symphony of destruction and the echoes of lamentation, that Shirou awoke. The fear and despair dissolved in the return to wakefulness, but tears still marked his face, and the rapid beat of his heart resonated like a distant echo of the nightmare he had left behind. "It seems that it was just a nightmare. But because I dreamed about something like that" Shirou had already been in this town for a few days, he knew perfectly well what kind of people they were and why they were so obsessed with Arturia.

He turned to Arturia's mother and asked about her whereabouts. The woman, with a cold smile, informed him that she had been taken a few hours ago to begin her training. Shirou decided to look for her while he thought about the strange expression that Arturia's mother had.

As he walked through the town, the cold air cut his face and the sound of leaves crunched under his feet. The atmosphere was calm, but Shirou noticed a latent tension among the inhabitants. He decided to ask a fairy who crossed his path about Arturia's whereabouts. The fairy looked at him indifferently and replied, "Caster? She is training outside the village right now. After all, it is her duty to become stronger for us." Shirou felt a surge of anger upon hearing those words. How could they treat Arturia as a mere instrument? Without wasting time, he set off in search of Arturia.

Finally, he came to an open field on the outskirts of town. Arturia was there, immersed in rigorous training that, judging by her expression, she had been doing for hours. Her figure stood out among the vegetation, and Shirou could see the marks of effort on her hands, red and battered.

With firm steps but without losing his serious face, Shirou approached. Arturia, upon noticing her presence, was slightly startled, but soon recognized her friend. The tension in Shirou's shoulders dissipated at seeing her safe, but her face still reflected her concern.

With a cold gaze, Shirou walked over and grabbed Arturia's wrist, questioning, "How long have you been doing this?" Confused, Arturia replied, "I've been here for about 3 hours." Shirou looked at the wounds on her hands and, taking her wrist, coldly said "Arturia," her voice ringing with determination. "This can't go on like this. You shouldn't have to undergo this type of training just for the sake of a town that can't even treat you as an equal."

Arturia, somewhere between exhausted and surprised, responded: "I'm used to this. It's what I have to do to protect everyone."

Shirou frowned, her expression showing a mix of empathy and frustration. "You fool, you shouldn't have to carry all this weight alone. You don't deserve to be treated as a means to an end. You are more than that."

Arturia looked down, feeling the intensity of Shirou's words. "I know, but... I can't just ignore my duty. I can't let the people suffer because of me."

Shirou sighed, understanding the firmness of Arturia's will. "I'm not saying you ignore your responsibilities, but you shouldn't sacrifice your well-being either. I'm here to help you, to share that weight with you. So please, don't hesitate to ask me for help."

Arturia, sensing Shirou's frustration, apologized, "I'm sorry, I'm sorry to give you trouble." However, Shirou, noticing the sadness on Arturia's face, softened her expression and replied, "I'm not angry with you, Arturia. It's not your fault."

Arturia's eyes met Shirou's, and in that instant, a mixture of surprise and gratitude shone in the young woman's gaze. She was happy that Shirou cared about her so much. She had never experienced such genuine concern and sincere words from someone else. It was like a warm flash of light in her heart, a comforting sensation that made her smile internally.

Shirou looked at Arturia with a smile and proposed: "How about you put aside your training for a moment and go visit the blacksmith you mentioned to me? I hadn't mentioned it to you before but I also have knowledge in blacksmithing, "I would like to talk to Ector so he can see some of my creations"

Arturia's expression changed instantly, and her green eyes shone with excitement. "Oh, really?! Do you think you can make me some kind of accessory later? You're going to love seeing his workshop, Shirou. Grandpa Ector makes everything from swords to the simplest tools," he exclaimed happily. , infecting the young guardian with his enthusiasm.

Shirou nodded with a smile, pleased to see Arturia's positive response. Together, they decided to step away from the training ground and head toward a different experience. "Let's go then. After all, I think a change of scenery will do us good," Shirou commented as they headed towards the blacksmith's location.

Upon arriving at the workshop, Shirou observed in amazement the magnitude of the place and the metallic sound that resonated in the air. Arturia, accustomed to Ector's eccentricity, led Shirou towards the imposing figure of the blacksmith.

"Grandpa, this is my friend Shirou, he is the Red Guardian of the Prophecy. He comes from another world and he also has knowledge of blacksmithing, but he does it using his sorcery. Isn't it incredible?" Arturia announced with a smile, trying to pave the way in Shirou's presence.

Ector, with a penetrating gaze, observed the newcomer with a mixture of distrust and curiosity. However, Arturia, unfazed by the blacksmith's attitude, eagerly stepped forward.

"An Outsider, huh? Blacksmithing sorcery? He's never heard of anything like that," Ector growled, with characteristic stubbornness of his, as he continued working on his creation.

Shirou, recognizing the peculiarity of the situation, nodded respectfully. "Yes, I come from another world, and my magic allows me to forge things uniquely and instantly." Shirou explained, sharing a glimpse of his abilities with Ector.

The atmosphere in the workshop became even more tense as Ector evaluated Shirou's words. Arturia, without losing hope of smoothing out the situation, intervened. "Grandpa, can we see some of your creations? Shirou also has experience in forging, I'm sure you could exchange ideas!"

Ector, after a brief silence, nodded without saying a word. Shirou, joined Arturia to explore the workshop and discover more about Ector's unique art.

Shirou, while exploring the workshop, stopped in front of an imposing Halberd Ax that caught his attention. The magic of the ancient weapon seemed to pulse in the air, and by scanning it into his mind, Shirou was able to glimpse its history. He recognized that that Halberd had been wielded by Ector himself in numerous combats, leaving his mark in each confrontation.

Intrigued by the blacksmith's connection to the powerful weapon, Shirou approached and respectfully asked, "Mr. Ector, could you tell me more about this axe? I sense an incredible aura in this weapon, as if I have witnessed countless battles." ".

Ector, still working on his forge, watched Shirou with a mix of surprise and appreciation for his keen sense of perception. "Ah, the Shadow Halberd," Ector murmured, remembering his own exploits with the weapon. "It is an ancient artifact, forged from the very essence of shadows. I have carried it through many strife, and its history is intertwined with mine."

Shirou, fascinated by Ector's narrative, inquired further: "Have you participated in many battles, Mr. Ector?"

Ector nodded solemnly. "This Halberd has been my faithful companion in countless confrontations. It has seen glory and tragedy, victory and defeat. Each mark on its blade tells a different story, a chapter of my life."

Shirou, with a look of respect, expressed his admiration. "She must have many stories to tell. Has she ever considered letting others use her to create new legends?"

Ector's expression became thoughtful. "It's an interesting idea, boy. Perhaps there will come a time when this Halberd will find a worthy new wielder. But for now, its history continues to be written in every blow I strike at the forge."

Shirou, feeling inspired by the atmosphere of the workshop, decided to share one of his creations with Ector. Respectfully, he approached the blacksmith and asked, "Mr. Ector, would you mind if I show you one of my creations?"

Ector, immersed in his own chores, looked up curiously. "Creations, you say? This is a blacksmith shop, not a museum. But go ahead and surprise me," he replied with a touch of skepticism.

Shirou, with a slight smile, explained: "This is Myoujingiri Muramasa, a cursed sword. However, I made some modifications so that it can be used without endangering the life of its wielder."

Ector, initially reluctant to divert his attention from his work, frowned at the mention of a cursed sword. "A cursed sword? And you expect me to be interested?"

That's when Arturia, noticing Ector's resistance, intervened. With his charm and persuasion, he managed to convince the stubborn blacksmith to take a moment to observe Shirou's creation.

After some time and with Arturia's help, Ector agreed to pay attention to Shirou's sword. Examining the Myoujingiri Muramasa, the blacksmith noted the skill and dexterity required to manipulate magic and forging. Although he was still a man of few words, Ector nodded in approval at Shirou's work.

Shirou, satisfied that he had shared his creation with the experienced blacksmith, carefully put the sword away.

After spending several hours immersed in the workshop, Ector had had the opportunity to witness Shirou's skills both in forging and in wielding his considerable magical energy. Impressed by what he saw, he decided that it was the right time to broach an important topic with the young guardian.

With a serious gesture, Ector called Arturia and gave her the task of collecting some branches for the forge fire. Arturia accepted enthusiastically, excited to be able to contribute in some way, and ran off in search of what was requested.

Once alone with Shirou, Ector changed his expression, adopting a more serious look. "Listen, kid, we need to talk," Ector began, making sure his words were received with the necessary seriousness. "You are the guardian of the Prophecy, so your duty is to help Arturia. After seeing your skills in forging and your enormous magical energy comparable to that of a Fairy Knight, I won't have to worry about what will happen next." "

Shirou, intrigued and somewhat worried, nodded. "After? What do you mean by that?" he asked sincerely.

Ector, choosing his words carefully, responded, "That's why I decided to talk to you privately, so as not to worry Arturia. I need you to be prepared, because in a few days something is going to happen in Tintagel Village. I'm not sure about it." what will it be, but I feel that it is so."

Shirou took a moment to process the information. "I understand. Thank you for telling me and for trusting me, I promise that nothing will happen to him," he expressed seriously and gratefully.

Ector, with a smile to himself, nodded. "Well, that's it. You two should leave now. Tell Arturia that I no longer need her branches and take her."

Shirou nodded once again, saying goodbye to the experienced blacksmith, and headed to find Arturia to return to the village together. "Arturia, Ector decided to go rest, so he no longer needs the branches. He asked me to come pick you up so we can go back to the village," he informed the young woman, who nodded and joined Shirou on his way back.

Arriving at Arturia's house, Shirou couldn't get Ector's words out of his head. The connection between his nightmares and Ector's warning about the town of Tintagel worried him deeply, he knew it was not a simple coincidence. Arturia, noticing the serious expression on Shirou's face, couldn't help but ask with concern, "Shirou, is something wrong?"

Shirou, lost in his own thoughts and struggling with the uneasiness that overcame him, did not respond immediately. His gaze was lost in Arturia's eyes, those eyes that reflected a purity and sincerity that comforted him in the midst of uncertainty. Finally, he decided to break the silence that had settled between them.

"I'm fine, Arturia," Shirou murmured, but his voice carried a weight of worry with it. However, instead of explaining his darkest thoughts, Shirou acted on impulse. He approached Arturia and hugged her gently, taking the young woman by surprise.

"Shirou?" Arturia exclaimed, confused but feeling strangely comforted in her arms. She didn't fully understand the reason behind this gesture, but something about the warmth of her embrace made her feel safe.

Shirou, without letting go, finally broke his silence. "I will always be by your side and I will not abandon you. I will protect you." The words echoed through the room, filled with determination and a promise that transcended words.

Arturia, although initially bewildered, began to understand the magnitude of what Shirou was conveying to her. It wasn't just a response to her previous words; It was a commitment, a declaration that no matter what shadows lurked in the future, Shirou would be there for her.

A comforting silence settled between the two. Arturia, wrapped in Shirou's embrace, put aside her questions and simply allowed herself to enjoy the quiet moment. The worry she had felt earlier was slowly fading, replaced by a sense of security that only Shirou's presence could provide.

After a time that seemed to stop, Arturia slowly pulled away from the embrace, but her eyes still searched Shirou's with gratitude and understanding. "Thank you, Shirou," she murmured sincerely, no need for more elaborate words.

Shirou, although still burdened with thoughts of the uncertain future, offered a soft smile. "Count on me, Arturia. I'll be here for you, no matter what."

Well, that's it for chapter 2, thanks for all the advice, I will be applying them for the next installment. See you.