As his consciousness slipped into the realm of dreams, the world around him warped and shifted, drawing him into a glitchy, fragmented vision.
Through the haze of his subconscious, he witnessed glimpses of ... someone's curiosity and imagination as they explored the world around him.
In the dream, he found himself observing as he traversed the landscapes of his upbringing. The scenes flickered and stuttered, like fragments of a fragmented memory, yet each image held some unknown profound significance.
The streets, cobbled and winding, meandered through ancient buildings that seemed to reach for the heavens. The air carried the sweet scent of herbs and the musky aroma of well-worn leather, as the denizens of this era went about their daily lives, clad in the rich garments .
In the bustling streets, men and women moved with grace . The women wore exquisite gowns adorned with intricate embroidery, their bodices accentuating the natural curvature of their figures. Layers of fabric cascaded in luxurious folds, and the vibrant hues of deep reds, royal blues, and lush greens created a kaleidoscope of color against the backdrop of aged stone buildings.
The men, no less resplendent, donned doublets and hoses, the silken threads of their attire reflecting the sunlight. Feathers adorned their hats, and the clinking of metal on leather announced the presence of well-crafted swords at their sides. Fashion a declaration of one's station, a manifestation of the cultural and artistic fervor that defined the era.
Amidst the crowd, artisans plied their trades, their workshops spilling onto the streets. A blacksmith's rhythmic hammering echoed in harmony with the melodic clinking of a jeweler's tools. The air was thick with the scent of fresh bread from a nearby bakery, mingling with the fragrance of the florist's blooms that spilled from woven baskets.
As the sun dipped lower on the horizon, the golden hour cast a warm glow over the scene. Shadows danced upon the weathered facades of buildings, each crevice and carving telling a story of centuries gone by. The hum of conversation, laughter, and the occasional street musician's melody created a symphony that resonated through the timeless streets.
In the market squares, vendors called out their wares, tempting passersby with exotic spices and fabrics brought from distant lands. Merchants haggled with customers, their animated conversations adding a lively cadence to the air.
Church bells tolled, marking the passage of time and calling the faithful to prayer. The grandeur of cathedrals loomed over the landscape, their spires reaching towards the heavens. Pilgrims, with weathered faces and humble garb, moved alongside the more opulently dressed citizens, each person a thread woven into the rich tapestry of society.
He knows that this is not his dream, that this is not his memory.
No gunshots.
No filthy alley.
A small hamlet.
The house was a simple stone building with a thatched roof, which no longer exists today. Instead, a commemorative monument marks the site where Leonardo came into the world.
A house in the town, which is believed to have been located near... Piazza dei Guidi?
Fattoria di Cafaggiolo.
After the memories of the "dream" continued to unfold in the back of his mind as he awoke, he took a moment to process what he had just witnessed and realized that a "Master-Servant" relationship ran deeper than he thought.
His mind drifted to his own schedule, the carefully orchestrated routine that governs his daily life. He mentally recited the intricate timetable, each activity meticulously planned and executed with precision.
For four hours each day, he dedicated himself to his physical training regimen, pushing his body to its limits in pursuit of peak physical condition.
For five hours each day, he attended to his civilian identity as Bruce Wayne, fulfilling his obligations to society and maintaining his facade as a wealthy playboy philanthropist. Whether navigating the cutthroat world of business or hobnobbing at social events, he played the role of Bruce Wayne with practiced ease.
Then Kiritsugu Emiya brought his head out of whatever hole he buried it in.
What was originally planned to be a couple weeks abroad at minimum had turned into a month-long preparation for a superhuman battle royale...
Right.
He knew it was getting too peaceful for him.
And Alfred claimed that he was becoming too paranoid.
Turns out, he was too lax.
His only mistake was assuming that the bill would come due in Gotham City proper.
He ignored the constant itch to put on the cowl and go on punch something.
Even though he has never been that gun ho and after a decade he couldn't sit still when he truly had nothing to do but prepare.
This wasn't Gotham.
He had memorized the cartography, geography, topography and history of Fuyuki in his time here but it wasn't enough.
He didn't know truly know the place beyond what he was able to gather. The first acting wars know the enemy for if you know everything about them you can predict , destroy or control them.
He doesn't know anything.
That was unacceptable. And it would be corrected.
He knew of some powerful collectors of ancient artifacts.
But if he tried to contact her now, especially with his civilian ID, she'd smell the lie for a mile away and escalate the situation before he was ready.
And Zatanna was already doing… something before she went radio silent after already giving him massive aid.
Bruce Wayne sat in his deluxe suite, the morning sun filtering through the curtains, casting a warm glow over the opulent furnishings. He sipped his black coffee, the aroma mingling with the scent of leather-bound books that lined the walls. As he glanced over the fax machine as it hummed to life, spitting out a list of sales of antiques to and from Fuyuki, with any that would be traveling to the city from abroad.
First he had to know his enemy before he could fight his enemy. Which is why he contacted Oracle to see if she could gather some form of data in any form, be it a manifest, record or sale.
Magecraft in the form of hypnosis or outright mind control may pull the wool over most people's eyes if one was only doing a cursory inspection but if one narrowed down the location and any discrepancies within the past 2 months , it should show a different picture.
She was… enthusiastic.
It seems that the earlier security breach has galvanized her dedication considering the constant request and updates she's been giving him over it.
She has also been putting those... suggestions brought up by Da Vinci to good use.
Despite the recent invention of the World Wide Web, it was still in its infancy, and cybercrimes were relatively less sophisticated than the ones he usually deals with. However, Oracle has seemed to make it so that she reigns supreme.
Numerous criminals that would send emails to unsuspecting victims, posing as a legitimate organization and asking for sensitive information such as passwords and credit card details and rare cases of identity theft were simultaneously being thwarted while she got him his info despite the fact there were few laws and regulatory frameworks in place to address it.
Hopefully US cyber security wouldn't notice the uptake in information transfer.
As he got an update from Oracle via fax on the list of sales of antiques, both of legal sale and blackmarket, to all individuals that traveled or live in Fuyuki, Bruce scanned the document, his keen eyes quickly picking out relevant details. Most of the sales were mundane, but one name leaped off the page.
One name that immediately gets his attention is Vandal Savage.
Bruce's mind raced as he recalled the information he had on Savage. He had first heard of the man through classified government files he had hacked during his time at CHECKMATE.
Another immortal, older and more powerful than Ra's.
That there hadn't been any activity since World War Two which only made this action even more ominous.
Even if one filtered the entire tenor of the JSA's adventures as American, British or Soviet propaganda and only used classified reports, it sent red alerts throughout his entire being.
And while at a time before the talk of mystery men , monsters and magic from the ancients would have been dismissed if it faded away, it has only escalated slowly into the public eye.
It's common for people to believe a man can fly nowadays.
He knew from said JSA files that he 'acquired' for further clarifications that every action of his had devastating effects
And Ra's Al Ghul was a mystical immortal warlord bent on and very capable of global genocide based on his own sense of right and wrong.
Even indirect involvement was all that needed to confirm to him that this was going to be a disaster in the making.
The sudden appearance of his name on the list of antique sales in Fuyuki was highly suspicious.
Setting down his coffee, Bruce reached for his phone, dialing Oracle's number.
"Barbara, I need you to dig deeper into what Vandal Savage sold ," he said as soon as she answered. "Find out everything you can about his recent activities, any connections to Fuyuki, and any potential links."
As Oracle began her search, Bruce paced the room, his mind swirling with possibilities. If Savage was involved in the Grail War, even in a simple transaction, it could mean trouble on a global scale.
As the minutes ticked by, Bruce's patience wore thin.
He drummed his fingers on the desk, his thoughts racing.
Finally, Oracle spoke up. "Bruce, I've found something," she said. "It looks like Savage sold fossilized snake skin."
Bruce's jaw clenched as he absorbed the information.
"Keep monitoring his activities and let me know if anything else comes up. I'm going to Fuyuki to investigate."
With that, Bruce ended the call
His mind goes into overdrive over the implications. Vandal Savage has lived for an estimated 50,000 years. He discounts any gods or pure demons. He discounts any figure from Japanese myth. He goes over Savage's psyche. He could have sold anything of relevance belonging to a figure of great power whether it is by their own merit or the power given to their myth ranging from Attila the Hun, Julius Caesar, to even Siegfred.
When he reads that it was a fossilized snake skin , he immediately reduces the scope.
Either its Herakles, Gilgamesh or Adam.
Worst Case scenario they might summon Lucifer.
Great.
As he quickly finished his light 5 star breakfast which consisted of steaks, vegetables and eggs, he got ready for the day.
After he made sure that Kiritsugu Emiya was a non-factor, he would make sure the rest of this mess was taken care of.
*****
Kiritsugu Emiya was a professional mercenary
Based on the psyche he created on him over the years that he constantly reviewed and analyzed among the others that were his failures, if he was truly here for the Holy Grail War, he was either hired under one of the mage families or was here personally.
Perhaps both.
That would imply mystical abilities. However, due to his reliance on more than weaponry and ruthless tactics it was insignificant combat wise or be considered a last resort due to some sort of a mystical drawback.
Da Vinci's upgrades on armor should provide better protection against that when he'd otherwise not have, even discounting Zatanna's own aid.
Taking him down would have to be hard, fast and efficient.
No wasted movement, flourishes or intimidation tactics.
However, even if his physical abilities or firearms mastery/marksmanship were on the same level as Deathstroke or Deadshot respectively, he could handle it.
It is finding him that would be the problem.
Based on his MO , both in Gotham and over the years before, he would not put himself at unnecessary risk. He is most likely going to use a proxy Master for all possible appearances with his servant while behind a sniper.
It's a good thing that he's bugged almost every possible vantage point in Fuyuki since he came here.
While he continued looking over the files he was simultaneously doing some crunches as he pondered.
Hmm, maybe with Da Vinci's aid he could make it more invasive.
Perhaps a mana empowered form of echolocation to monitor any suspicious activities even hidden among civilians.
Something to put to action when given the time.
In case that endeavor does not pan out, he'll have to make use of the criminal underworld here.
He will have to test out the promise of the Warlord Protocol, either under "Matches" Malone branching out or fabricating an entirely new identity.
This persona is the lynchpin of a very desperate contingency plan to force the various mob bosses of Gotham to consolidate all control of Gotham's underworld to Matches.
He personally dislikes it as the very idea, as was just making another mob boss, as was the case for anyone who thought that they could control crime …but. he's willing to do it if it ever got that tenuous in Gotham to buy time for another solution.
In theory, a small-time arsonist and rising mob boss, nicknamed partly for his habit of holding a match in his mouth like a cigarette or lollipop; in reality, his go-to persona when infiltrating a criminal enterprise would have justification and pull to be expanding outside of Gotham .
It would be "too hot" as of right now and that with some foreign backing he can fight back against Black Mask. Most of the "super-criminals" are incarcerated and now it's only eccentric gangsters he has to deal with.
Batman knew that to confront Kiritsugu, he needed to create chaos in his world. The first step was to put a target on Kiritsugu's back, making him a person of interest in the criminal fraternity to make sure he couldn't hide.
As he pondered his next move, Bruce couldn't help but reflect on his use of Matches Malone's identity. Over the years, he had adopted the persona of the small-time crook to infiltrate Gotham's criminal underbelly, gathering intel and taking down threats from within. But in doing so, he ultimately cost Matches his life.
The memory of the real Matches Malone getting shot after being mistaken for a snitch haunted Batman. It was a stark reminder of the unintended consequences that could arise from his actions. Matches, a man with a checkered past, had paid the price for Batman's infiltration and use of information obtained through surveillance.
Matches Malone wasn't a bad person, Bruce mused. He was a product of his environment, a man burdened by his past and seeking redemption for his sins. But Bruce had exploited his identity, using it as a means to an end without fully considering the consequences. And when Matches had been mistaken for a snitch and gunned down in the streets, Bruce had felt the weight of guilt settle heavily upon his shoulders.
To the world Matches survived Scarface's hit and came out of it stronger.
He had no family left to console him or guide him.
And none that Bruce could ask for redemption or punishment for.
He would only use him - his name - for good.
But the distrust of foreigners might make it difficult so he'd need another avenue.
Creating yet another fictional identity.
Jiro Kuwata.
A middleman in the criminal dealings of the city.
Jiro Kuwata, a man with connections and influence.
Drawing upon his vast network of offshore bank accounts and deniable assets, he secured the necessary funds to finance his operation.
Bruce began his transformation into Jiro Kuwata with a disguise kit. He altered his appearance with contact lenses, a fake nose, and a hunched over stance. It was difficult even with his self-control. He was determined to pass as someone else, so he pushed himself through the discomfort. Self hypnosis was very useful to control unconscious body language and actions.
Kent always impressed him with how he did it so casually.
As he made his way into the seedier parts of Fuyuki's red light districts, he saw gang signs of the Ghost Dragons
When he'd taken down Falcone and Maronie, the power vacuum despite his, Jim and... Harvey's best efforts was big enough for them to slip in
Ōhebi or King Snake as the literal translation expanded his operations to Gotham City, he brought reinforcements from both Hong Kong and Thailand. Pretty soon, the Ghost Dragons were involved in heroin, gambling, extortion, and robberies in the city. King Snake provided the Ghost Dragons with military-grade weaponry (grenades, anti-personnel mines, and rocket launchers).
The Ghost Dragons then waged a gang war for control of Chinatown with the ultimate objective of taking over the underworld in Gotham City.
When the Shan Triad under General Tsu consolidated control of the Golden Triangle heroin trade and was dictating the new prices and shipping schedules to their clients, King Snake murdered their representatives to Gotham City. The Ghost Dragons fearing a war against both the Shan Triad and its ally the Taiwanese Triad, went against King was forced out of the gang and Lynx assumed the leadership of the Ghost Dragons.
During this tumultuous time he struck and shattered their presence in Gotham.
He hadn't known they had a presence here.
Mayhaps Matches' middleman could pay a visit
*****
He let the fist slamming into his face, snapping his head to the side. He stopped his heart from immediately thundering in reflex even against such a weak attack, making the weakness in having every other sound around distant and muted. He controlled every instinct that would have prevented him from striking before the attack even got close.
The confidence in the punk grew just enough , it lasted for a brief second before he threw a punch back a dyed blonde hair stooge and too many piercings.
Said face was twisted from the next blow to the jaw.
His entire head snapped back hard enough to give whiplash, enough force that the statement he made would stick.
Like every fight in his career when it had started.
He finished it.
The guy hit the ground, cradling his face. "Fuck - who the fuck do you think you are?!" He howled at him, blood seeping between his fingers.
In the dimly lit club, the air hung heavy with the scent of sweat and alcohol, punctuated by the faint hum of electronic music.
"Jiro Kuwata" stood amidst the aftermath of chaos, his eyes scanning the scene. Surrounding him were the fallen members of the Ghost Dragons, each one incapacitated by precise strikes.
Dozens of unconscious bodies littered the floor, their faces contorted in pain from the blows they had received. His blows were decisive.
Temple, liver, throat, and upper lip. He didn't stop until everyone in the room lay motionless.
Each opponent is unconscious with a single strike.
"Kiritsugu Emiya paid me well enough to tell you guys to get out of his way."
He knew that by disrupting their operations, he would force Emiya to reveal himself in order to protect his interests.
And as Batman he would stop anyone from running blood through the streets.
In a gesture of half-acted disdain, he tossed bricks of bills onto the unconscious bodies, a small token to cover their hospital bills. "Consider it a gift," he muttered, his voice unrecognizable. "You can use it to fix your face while you're at it."
With that, the message had been sent to the ringleader of this branch Ghost known only as Akira, and now all that remained was to wait for Kiritsugu Emiya's response when he arrived.
Hmpf, after Emiya's work with Cobblepot, this was fair play.
Bruce Wayne entered the room with a slight grunt, his attention immediately drawn to the workbench where he had laid out his tools. Da Vinci, with her ever-present wit, replied.
"One usually uses words to say good afternoon."
Da Vinci had gotten a sense of her master well enough to not question the disguise.
At the cluttered workbench, his gloved hands deftly began pulling out a spy camera from his backpack. The device seemed incongruous in the high-tech surroundings, but Bruce had just begun the delicate process of dismantling and tinkering with the gadget. He carefully checked the wiring, checked the camera lens, meticulously tested all the components, then reassembled the device. his mind fully engrossed in the task at hand.
Using the new mechanical tools and holographic computers scattered across the workbench, Bruce set about improving the spy camera. Each movement was deliberate, each adjustment calculated to enhance its performance.
Da Vinci, always curious and brimming with inventive energy, couldn't resist the temptation to peek over Bruce's shoulder. She approached with a measured step, her eyes keenly observing each movement. "Improving an antique, are we?" she remarked.
Bruce continued his work, his focus unbroken. "Always room for improvement," he replied, his hands now skillfully integrating new mechanical tools and holographic computers into the spy camera. 20th century bleeding edge prototype spy technology.
Antique.
He subtly shifted his position, allowing her to get a glimpse without acknowledging her presence.
Da Vinci, unable to resist, couldn't help but offer a suggestion. "You know, my dear Master, after eyes, mirrors were the original camera. I could enhance your surveillance capabilities with a touch of magic. Mirrors, when used strategically, can offer a panoramic view."
Da Vinci explained that mirrors could be used to create a reflective surface that could capture a 360-degree view of an area. With this technology, the Master was able to access a much wider range of information.
Bruce arched an eyebrow, a silent invitation for her to elaborate. Da Vinci began outlining her idea, proposing the use of microscopic mirrors. Her eyes sparkled with the excitement of a new challenge. She described how her magecraft could forge a Karmic connection with reflective crystalline substances, allowing them to serve as the core for the surveillance system.
She then conjured a demonstration. Miraculously, a mirror materialized before them, catching the ambient light and reflecting it in a mesmerizing dance. Bruce observed with genuine interest as Da Vinci explained that not only could these mirrors enhance visuals, but they could also capture audio, turning surveillance into a multi-sensory experience.
"How do you get sound from mirrors?" He asked Caster,.
"Mirrors are simply an apparatus used to reflect information. The average mirror merely reflects visual data, while I created mirrors that also reflected audio data." She simply explained. "The process is quite simple when you're adequately skilled in mathematics."
The air in the workshop crackled with intellectual energy as in the midst of their creative exchange, Bruce, ever the detective, decided to delve into Da Vinci's thought process.
"Inspired by Archimedes of Syracuse?" he inquired, curious about the origins of her idea.
Da Vinci, not one to downplay the influences of the past, responded with an often forgotten insight. "All genius is built on the shoulders of giants," she remarked.
After a moment of contemplation, Batman posed another question. "Could you make a mirror laser?"
The mention of working at night prompted Da Vinci's curiosity.
"Sunlight at night?" she questioned, intrigued by the paradox.
"The sun only sets on a side of a planet," Batman pointed out, hinting at his broader perspective.
Da Vinci, never one to resist a playful tease, remarked, "Borrowing satellites, are we?" She found the concept fascinating, a testament to her eternal curiosity.
"They're not borrowed. They're mine," Batman responded, a subtle revelation that hung in the air. He had momentarily lifted the veil on one aspect of his clandestine operations. The decision was a calculated one, a test of Da Vinci's character. She had no apparent reason to seek his secret identity, but this breadcrumb of information would gauge her response.
Unfazed by the revelation, Da Vinci commented with a sly grin, "Glad to have a wealthy patron." Her appreciation for the resources at her disposal overshadowed any curiosity about Batman's true identity.
Returning to the matter at hand, Da Vinci resumed her discussion of the conceptual mirror laser.
Soon enough topics changed
It was crucial to address vulnerabilities in their defenses. They needed to prepare for two potential extremes: overwhelming infiltration skills, represented by Assassin and their Mage Master, and overwhelming strength, represented by Berserker. They also had to consider eventualities, such as the threat of Magical Resistance from the Saber class.
"By establishing extreme parameters, we can design subsequent defense systems to respond effectively to various scenarios. Merely ramping up firepower via mana lasers won't suffice if they're able to neutralize our attacks," She explained as he sketched the temple layout on the table. They exchanged ideas about potential approaches.
"We can't dismiss the possibility of an all-out attack from the Masters, who might attempt to infiltrate and use Command Seals to teleport their Servants here. It's a high-risk, high-reward strategy if they consider us too formidable or difficult to handle." They continued the back-and-forth, playing a mental game of trying to breach these defenses.
"Fufufu, I must admit, you're a highly capable Master," Da Vinci commented. Her magical expertise enabled her to keep up with the concepts discussed. She noted agreements as well as contributing some of her own insights as she got to work.
*****
Eventually discussion tethered off as he turned to look at what she was working on as he simultaneously worked to don the cowl.
That was enough for Da Vinci to begin a presentation.
He only focused on the technical information as she listed the enhancements she had made. He couldn't help but feel a minor surge of excitement.
Da Vinci began with the WayneTech 1200 bhp hybrid power cell, a marvel of engineering based on designs she had acquired from hacking into Bruce's computer network.
Next, she mentioned the addition of a nitromethane afterburner, a feature that would provide an extra boost of speed when needed, propelling the Batmobile to even greater velocities.
Da Vinci's pride swelled as she described the electromagnetic ejector seat, a safety feature that would allow Bruce to escape from the Batmobile in the event of an emergency..
As Da Vinci continued to rattle off the upgrades, Bruce's strategies expanded at the sheer breadth. From laser/infrared homing missiles to advanced synthetic fiber composite wheels, each addition seemed more impressive than the last.
The containment unit caught Bruce's attention. A specialized compartment designed to secure captured criminals or dangerous artifacts. It was a practical addition, ensuring that he could transport his quarry safely without endangering himself or others.
Graphene composite high-speed hydraulic cylinder air brakes with a regenerative energy mechanism sounded like a mouthful, but Bruce recognized the importance of such a feature. It would allow precise control of the Batmobile's braking system, enhancing its maneuverability in tight situations.
The "120mm carbon nanotube aggregate explosive reactive armor plating", providing unparalleled protection against enemy fire.
When she detailed the Vulcan Gun 25mm and 60mm cannon/high explosive penetrator shells, he quickly grew sober and held himself from immediately dismissing it and wondered if it could be programmed for only demolition.
The riot suppressor and electroshock defense systems were the final additions, rounding out the Batmobile's capabilities with non-lethal options for subduing adversaries. Bruce appreciated Da Vinci's foresight in including such features.
It was disappointing that he would not be able to test it out during his time here.
As Batman equipped himself with the new Batsuit, Da Vinci's gaze lingered shamelessly on his physique, but Batman remained pointedly focused on his task, ignoring her scrutiny. With practiced efficiency, he began to stretch and move in the suit, testing its range of motion and flexibility.
Da Vinci, however, couldn't contain her excitement, and she eagerly began to inform Batman of the suit's special capabilities, her words pouring forth in a steady stream of information. She explained how she had combined prototype schematics with alchemy to enhance the suit's performance and durability.
The suit, she detailed, was no longer just a Kevlar weave with ceramic plates, but a marvel of engineering, with flexible plates overlaying a magnetorheological (MR)-fluid armor layer. The tri-weave bodysuit consisted of titanium-dipped fiber mesh, with an MR-fluid-based liquid armor system sandwiched between the outer and inner layers. This innovative design allowed the suit to respond dynamically to impacts, providing superior shock absorption and flexibility. The MR fluids were able to absorb and dissipate the kinetic energy, deflecting it away from the body.
Da Vinci elaborated on how the MR-fluid armor layer would harden in response to impacts, enabling greater force delivery behind counter attacks while also allowing for increased maneuverability. The suit was engineered to withstand up to 6 gs of acceleration, enhancing navigational capability during high-speed maneuvers.
As she spoke, Batman nodded in approval, impressed by the suit's advanced features. He noted the retractable blades in the gauntlets and the sensors that worked in conjunction with Detective Mode to analyze foreign samples and upload data to remote sites. It was clear that Da Vinci had spared no expense in outfitting the suit with cutting-edge technology.
Da Vinci continued her explanation, detailing how the suit was designed to compress around wounds if shot at close range, effectively stopping bleeding and providing additional protection for the wearer. She delved into the science behind the MR-fluid layer, explaining how iron nanoparticles suspended in an oily liquid could be manipulated to harden in response to electrical currents.
Batman absorbed the information, his mind racing with the possibilities of what the suit could achieve. He marveled at Da Vinci's ingenuity, recognizing her unparalleled skill in combining science and alchemy to create something truly remarkable.
As Da Vinci concluded her explanation, Batman ... gave her a nod of appreciation, acknowledging her expertise.
*****
As Batman tested out his new Batsuit, he immediately noticed a difference in weight and agility. Everything felt lighter, and he moved with even greater stealth than before. The immediate difference was palpable. The suit felt lighter, more responsive, and he moved with newfound agility. The modifications Da Vinci had made were not only impressive on paper but translated seamlessly into action
Testing the new grapple gun he launched into the air effortlessly, and as he activated the glider, he experienced a smooth ascent into a controlled glide.
As he surveyed Fuyuki from above, he realized that the vantage points he had previously established were no longer necessary for their original purpose. However, they could now serve as ideal locations for Da Vinci's new mirror surveillance system. Perched on one of his usual vantage points, Batman reflected on how the purpose of these locations had evolved. Originally chosen for strategic advantage, they now serve an additional function – platforms for Da Vinci's new mirror surveillance system. The mirrors, made microscopic through Da Vinci's magecraft, allowed for covert observation of the city from various angles.
Batman methodically visited each vantage point, inspecting for any signs of tampering. Satisfied that they were secure, he decided to leave them in place, recognizing their potential utility.
Turning his attention to the trackers he had placed on the Yakuza he had encountered earlier, Batman activated the receivers to eavesdrop on their conversations. His plan worked seamlessly.
In addition to monitoring the Yakuza's movements, he kept a vigilant eye on the criminal landscape. Any planned crimes or illicit activities were now within the scope of his surveillance.
As the night stretched , one unfortunately came up.
*****
"Please God, don't hurt me..." The man in the suit backed away, tossing his wallet onto the ground.
His attackers closed in. One of them scooped up the wallet and fingered the notes inside. "Jackpot!" The other cracked his knuckles and threw a punch, dropping the suit to his knees, holding his broken face.
The ripples of taunt fabric came into being as a shadowy cape swooped down.
A single sweep.
The thug was busy counting when Batman took his legs. The wallet spun into the air as the sound of his skull cracking pinballed around the alleyway. The other thug turned and charged.
Batman threw his arm into the swinging hook, popping out of the shoulder joint.
Strike vulnerable areas. End it fast.
His fist slammed the thug's tattooed solar plexus, stopping his body like a bolt of electricity.
Batman stood over the unconscious man. Head tilted back, eyes shut.
Breathing is not as hard as he from such speed and power exerted.
It seems he wasn't getting slow in old age after all.
He had defeated four thugs in a single breath.
Before the victim could even notice a change of circumstances he had already grappled up.
As Batman soared through the night sky, propelled upward by the new Grapple Gun he experienced a rush of sensations unlike anything else. He felt like he was flying, and the wind whistled past him. He marveled at the power of his new weapon, and the possibilities it opened up for him. He felt a new sense of exhilaration.
The sudden acceleration...
The intense G-forces press against his body. His heart races, his breath comes in short gasps. He can feel his body almost screaming for release,...
Yet, thanks to the advanced body armor of his new Batsuit, he remained unaffected by the physical strain besides the minor screaming protest of his body.
As he reached the apex height and slowly started to free fall, he glided effortlessly between buildings. His cape fluttered in the wind as he glided past them, his cape billowing out behind him. Every gust of wind, every shift in momentum, was keenly felt. He controlled his descent and ascent with ease.
As Batman continued his rooftop patrol, utilizing his grapple gun and glider to their maximum potential, he pondered. Even with Da Vinci's new surveillance system (and potential weapons system) , it still was not enough in his mind for Vantage Point usage. Batman knew that he needed something more, an edge, that would give him the edge.
Batman stood atop a highrise his keen eyes scanning the urban landscape below. With the aid of his new Grapnel Gun, he could easily traverse the cityscape, reaching any vantage point with unparalleled speed and precision.
Batman felt that something was missing—
His thoughts drifted to the cantrips provided by Zatanna, among them, powerful spells capable of detecting the presence of others. While Zatanna had generously bestowed upon him an abundance of mana and "mystery", enough to last a lifetime according to her, he decided to start small. He resolved to use the bounded field cantrips strategically around key vantage points in Fuyuki as both a test and an alert system.
Zatanna's unique spellcraft, "logomancy" according to her, allowed her to cast spells by speaking backwards, a technique derived from Da Vinci's notes by her Father. Harnessing the power of belief and self-hypnosis, she simplified complex spells into simple words.
He only needed to say the word since she set all the work by providing the power.
"evitkcatA."
Dozens of meters around was suddenly engulfed in visible mana that arranged itself in a brief second.
Hmm. Aside from the sore throat, it is a little inconspicuous.
He would have to spread out their locations.
Minutes later, as he started with each swing and grapple, suddenly, one of the bounded fields went off momentarily, triggering a sense of being watched in Batman's gut.
He didn't see anything no matter how much he oscillated his Detective Vision through multiple frequencies only to get nothing
One would argue that it was paranoia.
He wouldn't be alive if he believed that.
Despite not seeing anything with his detective vision, he engaged in daring aerial maneuvers, darting across rooftops.
Eventually, Batman led his possible pursuer away from civilian areas, knowing that he was being tailed before he stopped.
With swift precision, he dispatched three batarangs, scattering a flock as they sank into the concrete and the gust of wind that they push with the speed they were flicked with.
He let the silence settle before they detonated with a mana wave.
He would have to ask Da Vinci to tone it down next time as he had to prevent himself from sliding backwards due to the sheer force.
The second the wave and dust cleared, he found himself surrounded by multiple bodies of Assassins, each wearing a skull mask as mana waffled of the quickly disappearing forms of a couple on the floor.
Recalling the interaction of Servants and none mana empowered physical attacks, with no time to waste, he decided to disappear rather than fend off right as he slammed a smoke bomb onto the ground.
And then he stepped.
With absolute precision, this allowed one to fool an enemy's eye into missing movement for a second.
A second in which he crossed dozens of meters of the building before he started gliding with the grapple gun acting as a pull for the building across. And the next one. And the next.
The Assassins, (and it turns out Seven was all that could be summoned) their skin and clothing nearly black, wore the standard skull masks associated with the notorious Hassan. Their varied ages, genders, builds, and styles of dress made them a formidable and diverse group.
He was not going to get into a slugfest until he was sure he could reliably attack him or they couldn't hide from him. He had dealt with enough supernatural assassins before when they were only corporal.
The Assassins had to be pursuing him, and despite his gliding, grappling and running, he waited for their footsteps to be echoing off the walls of the narrow alleys and streets below.
But he didn't.
Heard nothing. And that was even more concerning.
Batman could not sense their presence, a chilling danger that lurked. Yet, he refused to falter.
As he neared buildings too narrow to glide between, he seamlessly transitioned into a flurry of parkour maneuvers, bounding off walls and executing gravity-defying flips to maintain his momentum.
Right as a dagger dark enough to hide in the shadows, was going for his eye. He evaded the dagger with a swift jump and somersault. He landed on his hands and knees, then quickly rolled to his feet and rushed away. He looked back and saw the attacker disappear.
He jumped back, a blade so strong that just the wind of the pressure slammed where he had stood. With lightning-fast reflexes, Batman narrowly evaded the rest of the deadly strikes that appeared within spitting distance, utilizing the layout of the back alley to his advantage.
"evitkcatA."
In a calculated move, Batman activated another bounded field, meant for concealing himself from his assailants' sight. And waited.
And waited.
And waited.
He waited some more for when a couple dozen rematerialized before all but one separated before he sprang his trap and hoped that his gambit had paid off.
"evitkcatA."
A bounded field with the mystery and mana of the Zatara family backing it to capture one.
With them momentarily thrown off, Batman seized the opportunity to call Da Vinci for a rendezvous at Ryuudou Temple before he left with... a guest.
"Now that the defenses are ready, for now, we should focus on finding the other Servants. Da Vinci, the difference between a Mage and a normal human is whether they have the switch to toggle Magic Circuits?"
He immediately dragged his assailant with him to the cave underneath the temple, the most fortified area under his control even if in case any other Servant or Master pair actually decided to come attack.
However, based on his own Zatara gifted knowledge and DaVinci scans, with the Servant (more like Wraith) in suspended animation, that was unlikely.
He saw them in action
And right now with Da Vinci's aid, seeing into the curtain under their "spiritual core"
Hassan-i-Sabbah.
The pseudonym shared by the nineteen leaders of the Hashshashin, a medieval Islamic sect based in Persia.
One of a hundred available personas of the Hassan of the Hundred Faces, manifested through their Noble Phantasm.
He really hated dealing with secret societies
He assumed Ra's was the famed Hassan-i-Sabbah. From this information, he was either one of their heads or a former member if not due to some mystical nonsense.
The women nodded.
"Can you track other mages by sensing their magic energies?" She grimaced a bit at the question.
"There are multiple ways to reach a mage's lair. You can use water, which brings an element from the highest point to the lowest, and it's easier to detect any trace of it. Looking at the Earth will require a mage to be in the same place for a long time; it will sip and spread across it in a slow manner, with their workshop usually at the center of it. Air, on the other hand, requires lots of skill as it blows away easily, making one lose the scent rather easily." Those were three of the four classic elements.
"What about fire? Is there any method for using it?"
To which she shook her head.
"There are plenty of divinations using fire, sacrifices made to the gods, but no direct usage of fire." But he wasn't satisfied with the answer.
What is 'fire'?
Light and energy.
One can observe light with stuff like infrared and ultraviolet equipment, right? And all energy can be converted into other forms of energy at different levels of efficiency.
"We, in modern times, have X-rays and MRAs. It allows us to look at the interiors of people without having to open them up. If we could program my sensors to detect magical energies, we could create a system to look for potential masters in the city." To say Da Vinci was interested in the workshop talk was an understatement.
They spent a while bouncing ideas off each other as an inspired Da Vinci was putting her soul into her craft, making frown in concentration while correcting details.
"That is it! It works!" She cheered with a smile worth a million dollars. Literally based on the a certain paintings price.
"You are the best (after me)."
He only grunted at that before he wandered off onto another point of the renovated cave.
It only needed an animatronic dinosaur and giant penny to be just like home.
Batman found himself leaning over a workbench as he removed and disassembled his disguise still on and his eyes squinted. His cowl was lying in pieces, the internal mechanics lying off to the side of it. It looked like he was installing something on the interior. He picked up the pieces of the cowl and examined them carefully. He seemed to be looking for something, as if he knew exactly what he needed.
She lifted an eyebrow, patiently waiting for an answer. "What are you working on?"
As if to say that wasn't already present earlier.
He wasn't sure on how sensitive she was to her work but he would be blunt.
"The sensors on this cowl are some of the most advanced human technology I have seen." Batman spoke without looking up. "The cowl can detect movement, sound, and even smell," he continued.
"And... they're just improvements on the original design. If I fine tune them well enough to be capable of picking up energy patterns and matter arrangements at extreme resolutions it will make them capable of analyzing and storing information in any form in real time. Especially considering the varied sources of esoteric events. I'm using the same principles to enhance my cowl's sensors."
Leonardo blinks slowly. "So can... something as complex as what? Magic Circuits? Bounded Fields? This "DNA"?"
Batman's voice was calm, emotionless. "Not that good. Yet."
"But with enough time, I'm sure it can be done," he added.
She nodded in understanding. And in retrospect. "Right. Energy patterns. A good enough mage could figure out some magecraft workings and replicate them... only problem is we don't know if we have a big enough timetable."
Batman nodded. "The programs that would make sense of the data which is what I will be relying on you for. Still, we should be able to pick up something. At least hopefully." Snapping the parts in place, he deftly reassembled the cowl and slipped it over his head. Advanced polymers slid over his eyes, shielding them from view. He activated his new Detective vision and stepped back, surveying the room. He mentally ran through his mental checklist of equipment and tools, and all the mana that flowed in the ground, the air and around him, confident that he had everything he needed.
After a moment, he looked at her.
…
Interesting.
*****
His name was Kayneth El-Melloi Archibald. He was the heir of the Archibald family with nine generations of magus lineage, a very popular man whom everyone called "Lord El-Melloi." Engaged to the daughter of the principal, a lecturer at such a young age, he was the best of the best.
Tapping against the armrest of his chair, Kayneth El-Melloi allowed a rare show of annoyance to manifest through his fingers.
It began with the financial department's negligence. He had requested a holy relic from Macedonia be delivered to Waver to give to his teacher along with normal parcels, when it should have been a parcel opened only when Kayneth himself was present.
That day, Waver left England, heading for an island country in the far east. The Clock Tower immediately realized who had stolen Kayneth's parcel, but did not chase after him.
"A man who gives in to delusions such as yourself is not suited to research, Waver"
After setting him aside, he had given genuine advice to a student .. and this is how he was repaid?
…Normally, such a thing would not annoy him. But beyond words, he was angry right now.
Someone made a fool of him, who moved so far out of his home to find glory. It was only his own foresight that saved him as he had a spare catalyst.
Still, a minor setback to his victory
*****
Emiya Kiritsugu and Irisviel respond to a summons from the head of the Einzbern family, hurrying to their old castle sealed off by ice. The ceremony chamber within the castle, used for executing thaumaturgical ceremonies, reflects the Einzbern's long history of pursuing the Holy Grail. Despite setbacks, the Einzberns have persisted in their search for centuries. They agreed to cooperate with the Tohsaka and Matou families, hiring Kiritsugu nine years ago as their trump card. The head of the family, Jubstacheit von Einzbern, presented Kiritsugu with a golden scabbard as a catalyst for summoning the strongest Heroic Spirit of the Sword.
"Who would've thought... They were actually able to find this thing..." The usually composed Kiritsugu right now seems deeply impressed.
A scabbard made of gold and decorated with dazzling blue enamel. This sort of luxurious equipment should be called a treasure, to show dignity and nobility like a crown, or a scepter, instead of a weapon. Engraved into the middle is an inscription of the long lost Fairy Letters, proving this scabbard is not the work of man.
"... Why isn't there the slightest flaw? Is this really a genuine relic made from an era over one thousand five hundred years ago?"
"This thing is a type of Conceptual Weapon. It definitely won't deteriorate physically, not to mention that it's a holy relic that will be used as a catalyst. This treasure lies in the realm of magic."
Irisviel took out the golden scabbard from the lined box carefully, holding it in her hands.
"Legend says keeping this scabbard on one's body will heal the wounds of its possessor and can stop aging... of course, the mentioned facts are magical powers provided by its 'original owner.' Meaning as long as the Heroic Spirit summoned is functional, this thing itself can be used as a 'Master's Noble Phantasm.'"
The scabbard's one-of-a-kind ingenious design and exceptional beauty entranced Kiritsugu, but in just a few moments, his train of thought immediately changed to the direction of how to use it as a pragmatic 'tool.'
Watching Kiritsugu, Irisviel can't help but let out a small bitter smile.
"That's right, the 'Saber' was already the strongest of the seven classes conjured by the Holy Grail. And if this King of Knights occupies this position... I've obtained a virtually invincible Servant. But the key here is the question of how to use this strongest battle force effectively. To be honest, if only the factor of being easy to control was considered, 'Caster' and 'Assassin' are actually more fitting to my style."
Meanwhile, Kiritsugu receives a report on the identities of the Masters participating in the upcoming Heaven's Feel, including Kotomine Kirei.
Kiritsugu sighed deeply, looking at the monitor drearily, attempting to find something more from the character of Kotomine Kirei fabricated by dull text. "What do you think would happen if this kind of void, desireless man obtained the Grail? This man's whole life was built by despair. The power of the wish-granting machine, the Holy Grail might be tainted by the color of his despair."
The elders of the Einzbern only wish for the completion of the Grail; that is their sole desire... but for this young couple, after this, they still have wishes that need realization. Dreams that need realization. Kiritsugu shut the lid of the notebook computer and hugged Irisviel tightly. "No matter what, we can't lose."
For his wife, right now compared to her family's desire, Irisviel cares more about her and her husband's ambition. This fact deeply moved Kiritsugu. "...I got it. The way to use the strongest Servant's power to the maximum limit."
Kirei had a place in the section called the Assembly of the 8th Sacrament. A duty of that group in the Holy Church is to recover control of holy relics. The treasure called the Holy Grail appears in many tales and legends, and the importance of the 'Grail' in the doctrine of the Church is particularly large.
So he had been, if one was to be crude with the description, 'conscripted' into the Holy Grail War. It was duty.
His only possible way of gaining purpose.
He had expected to see many things and had seen many things.
But a man in a bat costume fighting off his Servant and escaping to parts unknown was new.
He could only sit there in befuddlement on his usually stoic face
Author's Note:
This one was sitting my files for too long to not use. Things are speeding up so this is one of the last buildup chapters. Hope you like it.
"Jiro Kuwata" is the manga artist/author of one of the first Batman Manga.
The two areas in the Servant dreams are Anchiano and Vinci
