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63.63% Fate/Stay Night: The Epic of Gilgamesh / Chapter 13: Contradiction to be confronted

Chapitre 13: Contradiction to be confronted

"It was really tough, Shirou!"

It was a typical morning. After finishing the preparations for breakfast, we all started eating when Fujine, who was always laid-back but quick-witted, rushed in with a commotion.

Curious about what was causing all the fuss, I tried to ask, but as soon as the tiger attacked its seat, it began devouring the rice with great force, leaving me waiting for a while.

Amidst the glances exchanged by everyone, Fujine quickly finished a bowl of rice and immediately demanded seconds before finally uttering the next words.

"Yesterday, I went to visit Sakura-chan to see a member of the archery club who had collapsed. And guess what, it was Mitsuru-san."

"Him...?"

Mitsuru Ayako.

She was the captain of the archery club, a beautiful woman with a strong personality. She had become my friend through my previous involvement with the club. Despite her involvement in various martial arts and her generally healthy lifestyle, it was highly unusual for her to collapse.

"So, is she okay?"

"Well... it seems like she's not doing so well. The doctor thinks it might be malnutrition or something, but Mitsuru-san, of all people, wouldn't have something like that, right? They say there's nothing abnormal, but she still hasn't regained consciousness, so she's been hospitalized. I stayed with her all day yesterday, but they told me she would be fine and kicked me out. I'm worried about Mitsuru-san, and I have a staff meeting coming up, so I'm too busy to eat!"

While saying that, the tiger finished its second bowl of rice in one go. Looking at its figure, quickly gulping down miso soup, it was hard to imagine those words coming from its mouth.

...Well, that's not the point. I need to ask for more information about Mitsuru's condition. It's natural to be worried about her, but it's unusual for her to be unconscious without any apparent abnormalities, especially since she collapsed on the day we interfered with the boundary. It can't be explained simply as malnutrition.

I glance sideways to see Tohsaka's reaction. As expected, she seems to be listening attentively, her chopsticks frozen in midair.

"Hey, Fujine. You said Mitsuru collapsed, but did it happen at school?"

"Well, it seems she collapsed on her way home. Someone passing by found her collapsed by the roadside and called an ambulance. I thought maybe she had been attacked, but there are no external injuries, so I was a little relieved. Shirou, you should be careful too. You're already working part-time, so make sure you don't accumulate too much fatigue and collapse suddenly."

While speaking, Fujine, who has a serious expression, gives advice like an educator. Considering the content of the conversation, I couldn't bring myself to make fun of it and just nodded silently.

"Take care of Sakura-chan and Tohsaka-san too. Many students at our school have been feeling unwell recently, and it's the season when colds and influenza start to spread."

Maintaining a serious expression, Fujine addresses the two people standing next to her. ...Today, Fujine somehow looks like a proper teacher, but I wonder if she ate something bad?

I tilt my head in confusion, but before I can ponder further, Fujine suddenly stands up.

"Oh, it's already this late! Shirou, I'll go ahead. Take care of everything here, okay?"

She says so, but before I can respond, I hear the sound of the front door closing. It's not unusual for Fujine, who has made up her mind, to move quickly, so I just shrug my shoulders and turn my attention back to the meal in front of me.

I check my bowl, and there's still about half a bowl of white rice left. However... perhaps due to the unsettling conversation I just heard, my appetite has completely disappeared.

***

After Fujine left. Without much conversation, we finished breakfast quickly.

It took a little time to do the dishes, but since there were many people helping, it wasn't as time-consuming as I had expected. ...Except for the shiny gold figure who only sat there without doing anything.

Our family has an early breakfast, so even after subtracting the time for doing the dishes, there was still plenty of time before it was time to leave for school. Normally, during that time, I would take care of household chores or something, while Sakura would head to school early for morning practice...

"Hmm, but wait. I heard that club activities were suspended for today, but is there still morning practice?"

I see Sakura bow her head politely at the entrance. Seeing her like that, something feels off, and a faint question arises within me.

"Yes. After-school club activities have been suspended, but it seems morning practice is still allowed. After what happened yesterday, it would be better to take a break, but there are some things I need to convey to the other club members, so I'll do my best today."

Sakura tightly grips her arm with a determined expression. However... anyone could see that she was forcing herself, even to the point where it was painfully obvious.

Mitsuru, the captain, is in the hospital, but the other club members don't know about it. Neither Fujine nor Sakura had time to contact the other members last night, and they can't explain the situation over the phone. So it would be easier to gather for morning practice and explain the situation directly.

However... that archery range has a focal point for the boundary. It's not something that activates immediately, but just its presence alone makes the atmosphere unpleasant. I would prefer not to send Sakura to that place if possible.

If I were to say that, I wouldn't want to send her to the entire school where the boundary is set up... But that's probably impossible.

However, I can't talk to Sakura about anything related to magecraft, since she doesn't know anything. And I can't forcibly detain her either. Since Fujine is attending a staff meeting, it's Sakura's responsibility to explain the situation to the other archery club members.

What should I do to prevent Sakura from getting into danger? I ponder silently. I want Sakura to continue living peacefully, without knowing about all these things happening at once...

"...Hmm. That girl is also having a hard time."

Suddenly, without a sound, Tohsaka, who had been standing behind me, murmured a single word toward the closed door.

"Ayako collapsed, and Shinji is useless, so her workload will increase. I hope that girl doesn't collapse too..."

"...Hey, Tohsaka. Do you think Ayako's incident is related to the boundary?"

Tohsaka turns her gaze towards the direction of the school, as if worried. I interrupt her thoughts and ask the question that has been on my mind.

Our classmate who collapsed on the day we interfered with the boundary, and still hasn't regained consciousness. While she collapsed in a place other than the school, my instincts tell me that this can't be a mere coincidence.

Furthermore, Ayako is the captain of the archery club, and the archery range contains a bounded field that we overlooked. If her collapse was caused by its influence, it could potentially affect other club members who are not as physically trained as Ayako.

And among them is Sakura, naturally. The inactive boundary, even if it's just a minor bounded field, is unlikely to pose direct danger. However, if its influence is present, we need to bring Sakura back immediately.

"No, Ayako's incident is unrelated to the school's boundary. Although I can't say for sure since I didn't witness it directly, according to Fujimura-sensei, I think she was attacked by a Servant aiming for magical energy."

"She has no external injuries, yet she hasn't regained consciousness. Those are symptoms specific to humans whose life force has been drained. It's something that would recover with time, but it wouldn't happen naturally."

"If that's true... then Sakura--"

"Sakura will be fine. Especially in the busy morning when there are many people around, it's unlikely that a Servant would attack. The bounded field in the archery range alone wouldn't have a significant impact."

"I'm concerned about Shinji going there, but if he's the one who set up the boundary, he wouldn't do something that would involve his own people. So, we don't need to worry about that girl."

"I see. That's somewhat reassuring."

Tohsaka asserts with a peculiar strength, as if reassuring herself. She emphasizes the words "we don't need to worry" a bit too much... Perhaps she anticipated that I would be concerned about Sakura. I appreciate her consideration while organizing the information I just heard.

First, it's clear that Ayako's incident and the boundary are unrelated. It was within expectations since Ayako collapsed on her way home.

Next, the cause of Ayako's collapse is believed to be the work of a Servant. Thinking back, there have been frequent gas leaks in the city, and it's said that someone is stealing magical energy from people. If Servants feed on magical energy, their methods wouldn't be particularly surprising.

However, it still doesn't add up. We predicted that Caster was the one gathering magical energy, and this time, they are openly attacking people during the day. Their actions are meticulous, leaving no direct evidence. It's too different from the previous incidents.

An incompatible code. An unsolvable equation. The Servant who attacked Ayako... who on earth could it be?

"Hey, Tohsaka. Ayako said she was attacked by a Servant. Do you have any idea who it could be?"

"Well... at the deductive stage, I think it's either Rider or Lancer by process of elimination. The others wouldn't have a motive to attack ordinary people."

I agree with Tohsaka as I furrow my brows.

It couldn't be Archer or Saber. It's impossible for an irrational Berserker, and Caster would handle it differently. It's not the work of an Assassin specialized in covert operations and assassinations either.

In that case, it must be either Rider or Lancer... But would that noble-looking lancer resort to such despicable acts? I don't know much about his personality, but there was a sense of nobility emanating from him...

"Why would they do something that attracts attention...?"

Regardless of who the culprit is, it doesn't make sense.

While it resembles Caster's method of stealing magical energy and the recent gas leak incidents causing unrest in the city, this incident shows no sign of concealment. Moreover, openly attacking ordinary people during the day, even in the evening, has too many disadvantages.

Because of the lack of rationality, it becomes difficult to understand the perpetrator's intentions. They can't be acting without any thought, and this carelessness almost feels like the exposure of their crimes itself is their goal...

"Ah."

Wait. Wasn't I thinking the same thing yesterday, but in a different place?

It was the school's archery range. Before the shining bounded field, I arrived at the same conclusion. And right before that, who was the one coming and going from that place...?

"...I can't believe it."

That's right. If I think about it that way, it makes sense.

The bounded field in the archery clubroom. Ayako, the captain of the archery club. Shinji, who is also a member of the archery club and exhibited suspicious behavior.

The common factor is "archery club." I don't want to admit it, but if Shinji is the culprit, the circumstantial evidence aligns to some extent.

But what is his purpose? What is he targeting? The crucial point remains completely unclear. There is no apparent benefit to such an act that exposes mysteries to the world.

Everyone tried to stop him, but perhaps I have no choice but to directly ask Shinji. Whether he is the culprit or not, at the very least, I want to confirm that. The situation of doubting a friend is not a pleasant one.

"Shirou, I can imagine what you're thinking, but don't dwell on it too much."

I feel a tap on my shoulder. I raise my gaze from the floor and meet Tohsaka's intense gaze.

Startled by the proximity, I involuntarily take a step back. Ignoring my reaction, she places a hand on her hip and opens her well-formed lips.

"Right now, our main focus should be the school's boundary. We can't stick our noses into everything. I understand your feelings, but let's not get involved in unnecessary matters. Got it?"

That was her cold voice, prioritizing the objective over a friend.

"Yeah... I understand."

The incident involving Ayako and the school's boundary are unrelated. If that's the case, there's no point in worrying about the incident any further. There are other Servants attacking ordinary people, aside from this specific case. I know that. I understand.

However, Ayako is my friend. I'm not the kind of person who can ignore it when a friend is attacked by someone.

"────"

I averted my gaze from Tohsaka and clenched my fist quietly. I can't just let it go, but there's nothing I can do right now. What I should do is make up my mind to face the 'enemy' that needs to be defeated.

"Oh... By the way, Shirou, weren't you called by Saber?"

"Oh... damn, I forgot. Thanks, Tohsaka."

Lost in my thoughts, I had completely forgotten about it until she mentioned it. I quickly thanked Tohsaka and brushed away the haze-like hesitation.

Last night, it was decided that Saber would train me. So, during the short time until school started, I arranged to train with Saber in the dojo that hadn't been used for a long time.

To stop those who harm others, to help those who are involved but have no relation. That's the reason why I participated in the Holy Grail War.

However, I'm just a normal human after all. I'm a mere mortal with no power. There's no way an ordinary person like me can stand against heroic spirits and magi. But still... if I receive training from Saber, who carved her name as a hero in history, even I, who is inexperienced, might be able to help someone.

With such hope in my heart, I walk through the corridor and head towards the dojo I haven't used in years. Although I have always kept it clean, I haven't actually used it in a long time. Back when Kiritsugu was still alive, I received some martial arts training there, albeit only a little. The experiences and mindset from that time still live within me. So, the upcoming sparring session with Saber will surely become nourishment for me.

"Sorry, Saber. I'm late."

Opening the creaky door, I call out to Saber, who I expect to be waiting inside. Then... I'm captivated by the sight that unfolds before me.

"────"

A wooden floor. In the corner, there was a beautiful girl sitting there.

Wearing a clean white blouse and a blue skirt. Her perfectly symmetrical beauty and closed eyes give her a delicate impression, but her dignified aura firmly establishes her presence.

Despite her Western doll-like appearance that seems out of place in a Japanese house, she harmonizes with everything around her. Yet, her unmistakable beauty that doesn't fade into the background exudes a distinct elegance that is clearly different from that of an ordinary person.

And... there was another person. A tall young man standing opposite the dojo on the other side, towering over everyone.

Despite it being winter, he wore a thin shirt and camouflage-patterned... no, snake-patterned pants, dressed casually. The accessories, such as the necklace visible around his neck and the bracelets on his arms, could be mistaken for the trinkets of a frivolous playboy.

But... his presence. The overwhelming aura that makes everyone here, no, even the world itself, tremble, wipes away any impression of shallowness from the man. He is a transcendental being whose mere presence convinces you that he is not just an ordinary person.

It's impossible to tell what he is looking at from his back, as he turns away from me and crosses his arms. However, there is something that easily prevents anyone from approaching him in his back figure.

This space, which should have been nothing more than a run-down dojo, had turned into a transcendent realm with an untouchable sacredness, perhaps because it housed rare beings called Servants.

"...? Shirou, has Sakura already left?"

Lost in the atmosphere, I stand dumbfounded. Suigintou's emerald eyes quietly gaze at me.

"Yeah, she just left. Sorry for making you wait."

"No, don't worry.

Well then, let's start your training right away, Shirou."

Saber stands up gracefully with elegant movements. Despite being captivated by her actions... I couldn't divert my attention from Archer.

After breakfast, where did he go? I never expected him to be here. It may be his usual capriciousness, but I can't help but suspect that there is some ulterior motive behind this unpredictable man who rarely reveals his intentions.

"...Hm? What's the matter, mongrel?"

Archer notices my gaze and turns to face me. His golden hair, which usually stands on end like it reaches for the heavens when he wears his armor, was now neatly hanging down, adorning his well-defined face.

"Well, I was wondering why Archer is here."

"Hmph? There's no particular reason. I heard that you swing a sword, so I thought I'd see how skilled your Master's arm is.

...Well, for now, I don't plan to get in your way. I'm just a spectator, so go ahead and sweat to your heart's content."

With that unexpected and admirable remark, Archer moves to the wall and crosses his arms again. His arrogant and insolent attitude hasn't changed, but his crimson eyes are gazing at me without reflecting any emotions. It seems that he truly intends to be just a spectator.

"Shirou, please take this."

Having waited for the conversation with Archer to finish, as soon as I turn to Saber, she hands me something. Reflexively, I grab it and feel a hard sensation. It's... the bamboo sword that Fujinee sometimes brings out.

"Oh, are we suddenly using bamboo swords?"

"Yes. It seems Shirou has been training his body, so there's no need to start from scratch. Even if I were to teach you the techniques, it wouldn't be possible for you to acquire the skill to fight in the Holy Grail War overnight, and besides, I'm not good at teaching others.

So... this training will be conducted in a practical format."

"A practical format?"

"Yes. Shirou will learn firsthand what the battles of Servants are like. You will understand what it leads to on your own... at the very least, you should no longer have the urge to do something reckless."

Still keeping the events of last night in mind, Saber looks at me with half-closed eyes. Yeah, I understand what she wants to say.

Technique is not something that can be learned by just scratching the surface. Even if you have talent or aptitude, it takes years of effort and practice to make a difference. As someone who enjoyed kyudo, I understand that deeply.

Therefore, what I need to learn here is not technique. What I should learn is the experience of clashing swords, the act of "fighting" itself. In other words, it means learning through experience rather than studying.

"Let's give way to the first move. No holding back, let's strike each other as if we're going to kill."

Saber holds the bamboo sword with both hands. Her atmosphere becomes as sharp and thin as a drawn sword. True to her declaration of intending to kill, it seems she has no intention of holding back.

...Ah, perfect. Despite being a girl, she is a Servant. There's no way I can hold back against an opponent who is overwhelmingly stronger than me.

The distance between us is only a few steps. Even if I were to slash with the reach of the bamboo sword, I would still need to step forward. The important thing is the first move. I'll strike with a high overhead blow──!

"Haah!"

***

In conclusion... I was completely overwhelmed and mercilessly beaten by Saber's storm of bamboo strikes.

I thought the first strike went well. But in the next moment, Saber, who hadn't even shown a defensive posture until then, disappeared from my sight... and along with a sharp impact, my vision went black.

And then, it repeated. No matter how I attacked from any direction, Saber effortlessly dodged and I ended up receiving her attacks without being able to anticipate them. Maybe by some stroke of luck, I could block the first hit, but I couldn't withstand the second. In other words, I couldn't even put up a fight.

In that manner, for thirty minutes. Saber hasn't broken a sweat while I'm gasping for air. At this point, I can feel the difference in caliber that goes beyond talent and skill.

"Haah, haah... damn, one more time, Saber...!"

"Eh... Are you still going, Shirou? Aren't you supposed to go to school now?"

"Ah... right, I completely forgot."

Lost in contemplating how to land a single strike on Saber, I had completely forgotten that today was a school day. I didn't have the luxury to spare any time for a sparring match with Saber.

I release all the tension from my body and let out a deep sigh. My arms and stomach ache from receiving Saber's strikes, but perhaps because I've been training my body, it doesn't bother me that much.

Fortunately, I had only dedicated about thirty minutes to this training. If I had continued this for hours, I would have been covered in bruises and unable to move.

"Haah... I'm completely useless at this. It's pathetic to just keep getting hit."

"No, that's not true. Shirou, your strikes had power and conviction. With training, you can become a good warrior. It's only natural that you can't defeat me, a Servant. Rather, you should be proud that you were able to block at least one of my sword strikes."

"Ugh..."

When Saber says that with such a calm expression, I can't say anything in response.

However, even taking into account the difference between a Servant and a human, it's embarrassing to be helplessly beaten without being able to do anything. Even if it was just by luck, I was able to block Saber's strike a few times. So, my goal now is to block the second strike as well.

If I were to be honest, I would like to land at least one attack on Saber, but that's just a dream. At the very least, I have to train myself to the point where I won't be defeated with a single strike.

He went easy on me and even used a training bamboo sword. If this were a real battle, it would be evident that I would be instantly killed. In this state, the idea of fighting against a Servant to save someone is nothing more than a fantasy.

"...I see. But well, it's true that I'm completely useless. Sorry, but can we continue the training tonight?"

"Yes. Shirou, you are quite diligent."

Saber's lips curl up slightly, seemingly delighted. My heart races in response to the amiable atmosphere that contrasts the intensity of our previous clash. Being smiled at by a girl... I'm not used to it so quickly.

To clear my mind, I prop the bamboo sword against the wall. It's about time, and this morning's training ends here.

"Thanks, Saber. Well then, I should head to school soon..."

"────Fools."

A chilling voice. It tore through the calm atmosphere and emanated from the golden Servant who glared sharply at us.

Saber's expression changes in response to that unmistakable contempt. I feel the same displeasure, and before I knew it, I found myself glaring back at Archer, who had dampened the mood.

The training hall is filled with tension in an instant. While facing the gazes of these two angry pairs of eyes, Archer, with a displeased twist of his mouth, unclasps his arms and takes a step towards us.

"Don't make me laugh, you mongrels. This ridiculous farce has become repulsive. You all have completely misunderstood something. I intended to simply observe, but this is unbearable to watch."

"You...!"

I don't know what he's intending, but I can't possibly feel amused when he says things like that. However, before I can shout at him, my opened mouth becomes powerless in front of his blood-colored eyes.

As if mocking us, Archer's gaze is fixed on me with a serious look. His piercing eyes give off an intense feeling that makes me unable to speak.

"Boy, for what purpose are you participating in this training?"

"Well..."

Naturally, it's to overcome my own inadequacy.

Even if I say I want to save someone in this Holy Grail War, it's nearly impossible for me at this point. In the face of Servants, I am nothing more than an ant. By studying under Saber and training myself, I may be able to at least fight against a Servant, and that may lead to saving someone.

As I say that, Archer, with an unchanged expression, coldly looks down at me and opens his mouth again.

"Then let me ask you. For you, is helping humans your 'goal' or your 'means'?"

"Huh...? Well, obviously, it's my 'goal'."

"I see. Then why do you insist on personally saving humans with your own hands?"

"Huh...?"

Archer's question takes a sudden turn. I always think this, but his rapid-fire questions are already too much for me to keep up with. In Archer's mind, everything must be connected, but as the one being asked, I struggle to fully grasp the intent of the question.

With my mouth half open, I stare dumbfoundedly at Archer, and he gazes back at me with freezing eyes. His eyes, unlike those of an ordinary person, seem to see something that even I myself am not aware of.

"If you wish to help others in this Holy Grail War, there is no need for you to personally intervene. If your own power is insufficient, then borrow the power of a Servant. It is common for magi like you to seek assistance from others when lacking in ability.

And yet, you stubbornly insist on saving those mongrels with your own power. It's as if you believe it is your own responsibility to save humanity."

Archer's merciless assertion. Unable to answer this time, I fell silent.

I want to become a defender of justice. The definition within myself is still vague, but at least for me, a defender of justice is someone who should aid the weak. Because I, who was once saved, thought that since I was the one saved, I should now strive to save someone else.

However, if the result is that I can save others, there is no need to question the means. It would be far more efficient to rely on Archer, a Servant, rather than my own powerless self.

Then... why did I think I had to save others with my own power?

"....."

My vision distorts. The world blurs. In my contemplation of returning to my origins... what emerged first was, of all things, the hell of ten years ago.

My body wavers unsteadily. Perhaps pitying me, Saber approaches Archer, passing through the corner of my vision.

"Archer, you..."

"Silence. You are equally foolish, Saber."

Saber lightly slaps her own cheek and steadies her wavering body. When she raises her face, Archer and Saber exchange sparks with their glares.

"The roles of a Servant and a Master. Even for a Heroic Spirit of the sword, it's absurd to not understand that."

"Yes, of course. A Servant is a warrior, and a Master is a commander. But Shirou insists on fighting on his own. I don't want Shirou to die in vain, but I have understood that he is not the kind of person who would listen to my persuasion. That's why I am guiding him in the ways of a Servant's battle."

"Idiot, you have completely misunderstood."

Archer spits out his words in frustration. There is no trace of his usual serpent-like smile. This golden Heroic Spirit looks down on me and Saber, even exuding a tinge of murderous intent.

"Listen. If you want to teach that boy how to survive, it would be more appropriate to instruct him on how to fight against Servants rather than conducting combat training. It is common sense to instill the methods of commanding a soldier Servant as a commanding Master. Do you really think common mongrels can fight against heroes? Enough of this nonsense. Saber, if you want to break the pride of these mongrels, one decisive battle is enough. If you had truly intended to train him seriously, I can't help but feel somewhat disappointed."

Mockingly, Archer declares. Then, as if indicating that he has nothing more to say, he walks towards the exit. In astonishment, I stand there watching his departing figure.

He appeared to be only a spectator, but he wreaked havoc like a storm and then promptly disappeared. Just by observing his actions, he may seem like a mere violent man... but his words held an undeniable truth that cannot be refuted.

"Why do you insist on personally saving humans with your own hands?"

Archer's earlier question. I couldn't answer it immediately.

Why... there is no need to ask such a thing now. Emiya Shirou wants to become a "defender of justice." To him, a defender of justice is an existence that should aid those who are suffering. It is something he has always accepted as his role, something that should never change.

That night under the moon, I inherited a dream. It became a guiding light for me, a light that should point the way forward, and the person who saved me from that inferno. I still remember the final moments of that admired hero—Emiya Kiritsugu smiled in relief as he passed, knowing my answer.

Yes. That is the beginning of Emiya Shirou's ideal. Losing everything in the flames of hell, unable to save anything, that's why he yearned for that beautiful dream.

"Do you consider helping humans as your 'goal' or your 'means'?"

A defender of justice. It is an existence to help people. He has been striving all along to save as many lives as possible.

...However, now, if I want to save a large number of lives, I am told not to question the means. It was said to me before as well. If I truly want to save lives, I should abandon a small number. The idea of saving all humans is nothing more than an arrogant fantasy.

I know. I understand that. But still... even so, I want to save many people. If I succumb to reality and give up on that ideal, it would be disastrous.

"Shirou, are you okay?"

Until Saber called out to me, I had been clenching my fist so tightly that blood was nearly drawn.

***

"What should I do? What should I think about..."

I contemplate the words Archer said once again. What exactly was he trying to convey to me?

Humans cannot defeat Servants. That is an undeniable fact. Like ants being trampled by an elephant or a frog being swallowed by a snake, there is a staggering difference in power.

The wish to help those caught up in the Holy Grail War. To fulfill that wish, it is necessary to stop the ruthless Masters and Servants. As the Heroic Spirit said, if I were to eliminate all the other participants, my wish would come true. However... I cannot choose that path. If it were to come to that, I would end up being no different from the Masters who involve others.

"....."

During lunch break, after that unpleasant training, I mindlessly attended school, unable to fully concentrate on my classes.

I suddenly realize that there are fewer students remaining in the classroom. Most likely, they have gone to have their meals. Speaking of which, I've forgotten to eat my lunch until now.

Since I had prepared my lunchbox along with breakfast, I don't need to go to the cafeteria like other students. However, if I carelessly open my lunchbox in the classroom, male students swarm around me like bees to honey, and I end up with no share of my own.

In that case, I decide to go to the student council room as usual—I lift myself up from the chair, collect my lunchbox from my bag, and start walking ahead, following Issei who had already begun walking.

Squeezing through the students engaged in conversation, we proceed through the corridor. Along the way, we pass by a familiar spot.

—The red stain clinging to the corner of the corridor.

It's not very noticeable and looks like an ordinary stain, but I can clearly recognize it. This is the place... where I died that night.

I can't help but smile wryly at my past self who had forgotten such a shocking incident. In these few days, my surroundings have changed significantly. To the point where the fact that I was nearly killed by a stranger has faded into the recesses of my memory.

This school has also transformed into a den of mages. Even though I continue my student life, it has become a place filled with tension. One of the reasons I couldn't maintain a sense of vigilance for long is probably because Shinji, the person I should be wary of, hasn't shown up at school today either.

The barrier is in place. The Masters are concealed. In a situation where danger lurks at every turn, I attend school out of habit, unknowingly letting my guard down. Yes, that's why Tohsaka scolds me for not having a sense of crisis. Until I came to the scene where I was killed, I was completely unaware of how perilous a bridge I was crossing.

"Alright..."

I gather my resolve and follow Issei, who was walking ahead.

Indeed, I may be an inexperienced mage, but now that I have become a participant in the Holy Grail War, I cannot let my guard down in life-or-death situations. If I act with an immature mindset... the pool of blood from that night will be born once again.

That Servant also said so. I should ask myself what I should do, what I should think.

Unlike Tohsaka, I don't have outstanding magical abilities. I don't possess Archer's keen insight or Saber's swordsmanship. So what do I have? Tohsaka said it. Shirou Emiya doesn't have any traces of magical energy—thus, no one can perceive him as a mage. Then, that is what I should utilize. Emphasizing this covert nature, Shirou Emiya must navigate his way.

When Archer reproached me, I couldn't say anything in response. It was simply because the core of Emiya Shirou as a human was shaken by someone he met just a few days ago.

This won't do. If I can't determine what I truly want to do and what I should do for it... then I will be swept away by the tidal wave that is the Holy Grail War.

"First, let's gather some information..."

Once I make up my mind, I must take action. I'm not particularly clever. Rather than brooding over things, it's better to start with what I can do. In the process, I might see something.

However, it would be counterproductive to move around carelessly. Even though I am a half-baked mage, as a participant in the Holy Grail War, I cannot afford to let my guard down in life-or-death situations. If I act with an immature mindset... that night's bloody mess will be born once again.

That Servant also mentioned it. Ask myself what I should do, what I should think.

It's unlikely that I will be suspected by others, but I can still gather information within certain limits. The note that comes with it is...

"Hm? What's the matter, Emiya? Are you not coming in?"

"Ah, sorry. I'm coming in now."

Issei noticed my gaze from behind and turns back with the door to the student council room open. I put on a smile to deceive him and enter the student council room following Issei.

Conveniently, there is no one else in the student council room. This way, there is no need to worry about others overhearing our conversation. I spread out my lunchbox on a table away from the entrance and respond with casual nods to Issei's idle talk while subtly observing his condition.

But there doesn't seem to be any notable change. Well, it wouldn't be good if there were any changes... It feels unpleasant to suspect a friend, and I'm not in a particularly good mood. However, with Shinji as a precedent, even if he is a friend, I can't help but doubt whether or not he is involved in the Holy Grail War...

I don't think it's likely, but if Issei were a Master, he would never let any weaknesses show. Otherwise, if he isn't a Master, this conversation between friends will end as just idle chat. Should I bring up the topic myself?

"Hey, Kazunari. Anything unusual happened lately?"

"Hmm? What do you mean by unusual?"

"Well, I've been hearing some disturbing news recently. Rumors about strange noises in the middle of the night around our neighborhood, weird people walking around... I'm worried if anything's happened around you."

...Well, I'm not lying.

Due to the influence of my glittering servant and the red devil who I'm lodging, I've developed a habit of carefully considering people's words and responses these days. This excuse I gave is one I prepared beforehand, meant to be just a casual conversation.

Kazunari Ryuudou is not only the student council president of this school but also the son of a temple called Ryuudou Temple. Given his roles, he should be well-versed in rumors and information.

"Hmm... Well, fortunately, I haven't heard of any trouble happening around me. If there's anything unusual, it's that Shinji started skipping school recently."

"Oh, I've been concerned about that too."

Yesterday, we concluded that Shinji, who we all agreed on, was the master. I came to school worried about what action he would take, but when I arrived, the person in question was skipping school. However, this actually deepened my suspicions.

Shinji, despite being who he is, insists on following the rules. He rarely comes late or leaves early, and if he does, he notifies the school about his reason, such as sickness. Now, at this timing, he is completely skipping school without any contact. With this much circumstantial evidence, anyone would see him as guilty.

I should casually ask about it.

"Did he catch a cold or something?"

"Well, I haven't heard anything about that. Shinji's sister also says she has no idea... Well, knowing Shinji, he'll probably get in touch soon."

With those calm words, Kazunari resumes his interrupted meal. He didn't seem to be disturbed at all by the mention of Shinji. ...Should I change the topic?

"I see. So, nothing unusual at the temple either? Like ghosts or something."

"Don't make my temple a haunted house, Emiya.

...Speaking of which, not a ghost, but there's one unfamiliar woman who's appeared recently."

"...A woman?"

"Yeah, a foreign guest. Well, if there's anything unusual, that's about it. The mountain is peaceful, all's well."

Saying so, Kazunari takes a sip of his tea. Drawn in, I also take a sip from my own cup.

A foreign woman, huh?

It's not unusual to see foreigners in modern Japanese cities, not like in the old days. Here in Fuyuki City, foreigners are somewhat common as well. But... would a foreign woman visit a temple, not so famous, at this time?

Moreover, she didn't just visit the temple. The expression "appeared" sounds like this person has taken up residence at the temple. There are some lingering questions before ruling it out as unrelated to the Holy Grail War.

However... I only asked the question half-jokingly, but it's taken an unexpected turn. I want to hear more about it, but... if I delve any further, he might become suspicious. For now, I'll hold back, and thank my lucky stars for the new information.

"Oh, it's about time. Let's head back to the classroom, Emiya."

I nod at Kazunari's words as he stands up and start cleaning up my finished bento. I notice there's still some tea left, but that's not my concern right now.

The woman at Ryuudou Temple. It might be overthinking, but... I should share this story with Tohsaka and the others.

***

"Ryuudou Temple?"

In the evening, with the matter of Mitsuru still on our minds, Fujino and Sakura left our house while it was still bright outside. In the living room, Tohsaka and I sat together as usual, comparing the information we had gathered.

Tohsaka listened to my words with a puzzled expression, repeating them back to me. I nodded in agreement with her response.

"According to Issei, there has been an increase in foreign women visiting Ryuudou Temple recently. Do you think this is related to the Holy Grail War?"

"Hmm... I think it's just a coincidence. I can't think of any advantage for a Master to establish a base in such a remote place... Besides, people living in the temple would have noticed them too, right? If that person is a Master, they wouldn't attract unnecessary attention."

Tohsaka expressed her opinion while pondering the matter. She absentmindedly played with her hair, twirling it around her right hand.

By the way, Saber was still patrolling the town. Archer seemed to have gone to the dojo, but I wasn't sure what he was up to.

"In that case, maybe I'm just overthinking it... Well, I guess that makes sense. It's not easy to find clues about a Master so easily."

"But right now, we should focus on Shinji. He seems to be skipping school today... I wonder if he's planning something?"

The school's barrier, the curse on the archery dojo, Shinji's unauthorized absence, and the Matou family's Servant.

All the pieces had fallen into place. Shinji was the Master of the Holy Grail War and had a Servant under his command. Choosing the archery dojo as the focal point of the barrier made it difficult to definitively deny his involvement.

While Mitsuru's case might be just a coincidence, Shinji had too many suspicious points to ignore. We couldn't just let it slide.

"What should we do? Should we make a move?"

"There's no reason for us to recklessly intrude into his territory. Besides, considering his personality, he should be getting impatient and starting to act soon. Through Sakura, he probably knows that I've been staying at the Emiya residence. So if anything, it would be more convenient to wait for him to make a move from his side."

"...Huh? What do you mean?"

Tohsaka's words weren't completely clear to me, so I tilted my head in confusion. Perhaps she sensed that the conversation had jumped too far, as Tohsaka apologized briefly and added an explanation.

"Even Shinji must have heard about Sakura staying at the Emiya household and the suspicious foreigners through her. It's obvious that Saber and I, as Servants, have established a cooperative relationship. From his perspective, it would be surprising enough just to find out that you, who he didn't have on his radar, are a Master. And he probably still thinks his true identity is unknown. That's why Sakura, who comes here regularly, is the evidence. It's not normal to let the family members of an enemy Master enter and leave their base. We can turn that situation to our advantage."

I see... So the reason Sakura didn't mention her visits here was part of the plan. I had expected Tohsaka to be scheming something, given her nature.

Impressed by her explanation, I listened intently as Tohsaka began to unveil her well-kept plan.

For Shinji, it must be uncomfortable to have his sister, Sakura, staying at another Master's house, feeling like she was being held hostage. However, if we were to give instructions for Sakura not to come here, he would suspect something. We could come up with various excuses, but that would raise suspicions about Shinji. We didn't want to jeopardize our slight advantage in terms of information, knowing that we were the only ones who knew both the opposing Master and Servant, despite our inferior strength.

We could exclude the option of using Sakura to gather information on our side. Sakura wasn't the type to hide anything behind her back, and it was unlikely that Shinji would involve his sister, who had no connection to the Holy Grail War.

We wanted to do something but felt powerless. Shinji had a high pride and was impulsive. He would definitely make a move of some sort.

While ensuring Sakura's safety, we also wanted to put pressure on Shinji. Homurahara Academy's talented girl, Tohsaka, had a different way of thinking.

"Yeah, it seems like you understood it right away. You're starting to think a bit more, Shirou."

"Hey, wait a minute. It's not like I haven't been thinking about anything up until now."

"True, but..."

Tohsaka's confident and unapologetic words made me groan. It was true that I couldn't argue since I had a record of recklessly rushing into Berserker without thinking. However, I had my own thoughts and considerations.

Thanks to Archer's repeated admonitions and the harsh reality I faced each time, I had become somewhat more cautious. Well, Tohsaka's explanation was probably easy to understand because she was good at explaining things.

"Well, if he's a reasonable Master, he would ignore us and wait until there's any movement in the school's barrier. If Shinji is the one who set up the barrier, keeping silent would be advantageous for him. Even if that's not the case, once the barrier is activated, we'll have no choice but to take action. It's the best strategy to wait until then... But knowing his personality, he won't just sit still and observe. Seeing that he didn't come to school today, it seems he couldn't resist and has started to make a move."

We still didn't know who Shinji's Servant was. Even if we had the numerical advantage, without knowing the enemy's true identity, we couldn't devise a strategy. Even if we were to attack, if Shinji's Servant turned out to be an Assassin specialized in killing Masters, it would be disastrous.

However, by taking action on his own, he had discarded the option of fighting in his favorable Matou residence. While it was uncertain how he would act from now on, I didn't think he was planning anything particularly clever. If he were to attack us, he would be at a disadvantage in terms of strength. And setting traps or launching surprise attacks would also be difficult, as he knew that we knew he was the Master.

"Now, for now, it seems we have the advantage."

I murmured softly. I had realized that I had somehow accepted my position as a Master in the Holy Grail War.

Shinji was my friend. If possible, I wanted to resolve things peacefully without fighting. However... participating in the Holy Grail War meant that he, too, had made up his mind to fight for something he couldn't compromise on.

In the past few days, as I spent time with Tohsaka and the others, I couldn't help but see their determination. Aside from Archer, who had lost his memories, both Tohsaka and Saber had clear goals and resolutions regarding the Holy Grail War. That's why they were strong. They had the strength to sacrifice something for their objectives.

I didn't want to fight. However, after witnessing Tohsaka and Saber's attitude, I couldn't deny their determination. Likewise, I couldn't deny the determination and feelings that Shinji must have. It would be arrogant to simply tell him not to fight.

But... I absolutely couldn't accept any actions that involved dragging unrelated people into this. I would stop him, even if it meant fighting. I didn't want unnecessary sacrifices. That's why I had decided to participate in this absurd game called the Holy Grail War. If Shinji was the culprit behind the recent incidents, I had to stop him.

"Hmm... So you've finally made up your mind to fight."

Tohsaka said, wearing a meaningful smile as she looked at me.

"Yeah. It doesn't mean I have no reservations about fighting. And I can't imagine defeating Shinji either.

But... if there's no avoiding a fight, I won't run away. If he's planning something foolish, I'll find a way to stop him."

"I suppose that's good enough."

Tohsaka's expression changed to a wry smile. Perhaps she found me exasperating, but this was my compromise.

In other words, it might seem lukewarm from Tohsaka's perspective, which assumes defeating other Masters and Servants as a prerequisite, because I haven't proposed any concrete means. Still, Tohsaka gave me a passing grade, showing her own consideration.

"Well then, since you seem motivated, how about I give some guidance to the novice mage?"

With that, Tohsaka stood up from the cushion. By the way, we had made a promise yesterday that Saber would train me in swordsmanship and Tohsaka would teach me magecraft.

I had learned from Kiritsugu, and I only knew one type of magecraft, reinforcement. Yet even that I couldn't execute satisfactorily. No matter how determined I was to fight, if I couldn't use magecraft properly, I would be less than a half-baked Master. So, I had to improve my skills in this situation, even if only a little.

Tohsaka had been moving around since yesterday, saying that she would repay the favor of staying at my place by giving me guidance in magecraft. She seemed to have brought something from her house, and I wondered if she would use it right away.

"I've prepared everything, so come to my room."

She stated it unilaterally and walked down the corridor. In that case, I had no choice but to follow her.

I had a bad feeling about this. Perhaps because I had been caught up in the Holy Grail War, my future looked difficult.


L’AVIS DES CRÉATEURS
Kudou_taiki Kudou_taiki

Your gift is the motivation for my creation. Give me more motivation!

Creation is hard, cheer me up!

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