Chapter 458: Recruitment and Friendly Overtures
During the battle against Caster Gilles the night before, Kaguya's overwhelming power had left a lasting impression on Tohsaka Tokiomi. Although Tokiomi had already been aware of her strength, the sheer might Kaguya displayed this time shocked him.
Especially the massive chasm that nearly split Fuyuki City in half—this sent chills down Tokiomi's spine, causing cold sweat to run down his back. It forced him to reevaluate the silver-haired beauty standing before him. This seemingly delicate girl now possessed enough strength to potentially decide the outcome of the Holy Grail War. Underestimating her would undoubtedly lead to serious consequences.
Another factor influencing Tokiomi's thoughts was Gilgamesh's attitude. That night, Gilgamesh's arrogance and domineering presence had left an equally strong impression. Having a powerful Servant was undeniably an advantage, but if that Servant was uncontrollable, it posed a considerable problem.
A sword, no matter how sharp, was useless if it never saw battle—it would merely sit on display for admiration.
But what Tokiomi needed was a sword that could be wielded, not an uncooperative one. Though he respected true strength, this wasn't the time to be debating such matters.
At this point, Kaguya, who remained neutral in the conflict, entered his vision. Tokiomi had been contemplating for a long time—if he could somehow recruit her to his side...
Naturally, Kaguya was fully aware of Tokiomi's intentions, but she didn't call him out on it. While he indeed respected true rulers, and knowing that Kaguya herself was a sovereign would make him more reverent, his real aim was to curry favor and strengthen their relationship.
But if she were to be easily recruited, wouldn't that make Kaguya seem a bit too casual?
No, she decided. She'd have some fun toying with this guy first.
Just then, Tokiomi approached her.
"The bath is ready, newly prepared, never before used. You must be quite tired after today, so why not relax a little first?" Tokiomi said, smiling politely. "Also, breakfast is prepared. If there's anything else you require, feel free to ask."
"Oh?" Kaguya's eyes brightened. She hated going a day without bathing—it made her feel uncomfortable.
"Yes. Would you like to bathe first or have breakfast? I'll have the servants attend to your needs," Tokiomi said, leaning forward slightly in a show of respect.
"Is everything truly prepared?" Kaguya asked.
"For a noble ruler such as yourself, no amount of preparation could be considered too much," Tokiomi smiled, ever so reverent.
Smart man, she thought. This time, she'd let him off the hook.
Thus, Kaguya, who had just been planning how to mess with Tokiomi, decided instead to leisurely enjoy her bath.
As she walked away, she suddenly turned back and asked, "Has Golden Flash returned yet?"
"Golden Flash?" Tokiomi blinked, confused for a moment. He didn't seem to understand the reference.
"I mean Goldie... no, I'm talking about Archer, Gilgamesh," Kaguya clarified.
"He has not returned yet. As you know, I have no authority to question the movements of such a dignified and glorious king," Tokiomi responded humbly. "Similarly, should you wish to do anything, I would not dare pry. Please, be at ease."
This guy certainly knew how to speak. No wonder he was able to keep Gilgamesh, the self-proclaimed king of heroes, so content.
"I wasn't implying anything of the sort. Don't worry about it," Kaguya smiled slightly, feigning curiosity. "By the way, I haven't seen your apprentice Kirei Kotomine around lately. What has he been up to?"
At the mention of his disciple, Tokiomi's brow furrowed ever so slightly before returning to its usual calm expression. "I sent him to take care of some tasks. He won't be back for a few days. Was there something you needed from him?"
Seeing his reaction, Kaguya already understood the situation. It seemed that Kirei Kotomine had already developed rebellious thoughts, but Tokiomi was still blissfully unaware.
In that case, I might as well fan the flames a bit more, Kaguya mused.
Feigning nonchalance, Kaguya said, "I happened to see Kirei with Gilgamesh a few days ago at the Einzbern castle."
"I sent him there to investigate a few matters," Tokiomi replied calmly, without any change in expression. His collected response left Kaguya feeling slightly disappointed.
It appeared that Kirei still held significant trust in Tokiomi's eyes. Understandable, considering that Kirei had always presented himself as a man of strict discipline and restraint. Anyone would find it hard to be suspicious of such a person.
Since the departure of Aoi Tohsaka, Rin, and Sakura, the Tohsaka estate had become far emptier. Aside from a few servants, it felt desolate and lonely most of the time.
After a hearty meal, Kaguya didn't wander around aimlessly but returned to her room instead. Since Tokiomi needed her help, she felt no need to hold back. She treated the mansion as her own, and now she was focusing on her training.
Although Kaguya's power had reached great heights, unlike Gilgamesh, she didn't allow herself the luxury of idleness. Her current goal was to refine the Dragon Vein Chakra, transforming it into her own.
While she could use this Dragon Vein Chakra, it was far from perfect—filled with impurities and tainted with negative emotions. Only through slow and careful refinement could she remove these impurities, turning it into pure, usable energy.
By noon, Kaguya finished her training. While the progress wasn't bad, the sheer volume of the Dragon Vein Chakra made her efforts seem like a drop in the ocean.
At that moment, a figure approached. Dressed in neat, dark gray clothing, with no embellishments, his appearance was sharp and tidy. The most striking feature about him was his split eyebrows, giving him a distinctive look—it was none other than Kirei Kotomine.
Upon seeing Kaguya, Kirei visibly hesitated for a moment before regaining his composure and continuing to walk down the corridor.
As they were about to pass each other, Kaguya smiled and said, "Kirei, how did your talks with Gilgamesh go?"
Kirei's pupils suddenly contracted at her words.
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