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Komen and Sakura were wondering the caves for what seemed like ages. Komen wasn't getting tired or anything, but he was curious about something, "Sakura, what in the world are we looking for down here?" He asked her as she looked back at Komen for a quick bit before continueing forward, "If you must know. I'm looking for a another person down here. He almost killed me not too long ago and I want to teach him that no one messes with Sakura Blossom. He also stole my favorite daggers from me." She said in a rather pissed off tone. Komen sighed a bit as this is what he had to do in order to get to know more about this world.

.:Zetsumei Tsukaite:.

Hidden Soul
As Zetsumei made his first trip back to his so called homeland, he wasn’t amazed at all on the condition of his surroundings. His very own home land had been that of a group of lower villages combined into one massive federation composed of various villages that once were. He had thoughts of what could happened to his home land to make it in, what he thought was, the lower ranked villages.
He had now taken his first foot onto a lush patch of green grass in his home land of Hidden Soul for the first time in his being. At this time in his state of liveliness, he began to wonder about his calling, his reason for being called to this realm. Off into the distance he could see two relatively large clock towers. One of a clear distinct age, and the other with what seemed to be brand new, and used for holy ceremonies. As he looked, his vision began to distort and he soon found himself in somewhat of a spiritual state of being…..nobody has ever understood Grim Eater's talent.
As a ninja, he was neither born of a famous family nor lucky enough to meet a good master. This youth was mostly self-taught, and was finally fortunate enough to have the Ninja Association, which controls clan across the world, accept him into its headquarters, the teaching institution in Hidden Soul commonly known as the "Clock Tower". Grim always believed this cause to be incomparably honorable, he deeply believed this without doubt, and was also very proud of his own talent. Only I am the most capable student of the Clock Tower since its founding, anyone would have to respect me, at least Grim himself thought this way.
In truth the ninja lineage of the Eaters has only existed for three generations. Compared to the offspring of well-established clan family, Grim's Crest concentration and Clanc Circuit quantity pales by comparison, but as time goes on, the number of Clanc Circuits and concentration of Crests are also constantly increasing and expanding. Many students that received scholarships in the Clock Tower were offsprings of families having more than six generations of pure clan blood.
The wonders of thaumaturgy cannot be completed within one generation, the results of a whole life of research by parents are passed on to their children, only through this can thaumaturgy be expected to become more and more refined. The Prana of those with a longer ninja lineage being stronger is precisely because of this reason.
Furthermore, although clan's Clanc Circuit quantity are already determined at birth, there are some ancestral clan families that deliberately contrive to increase the amount of Clanc Circuits in an offspring, therefore distancing themselves from new Clan families in this regard. In other words, advantages within the world of thaumaturgy are predetermined even before birth... This is a commonly accepted point of view.
But Grim does not see it that way.
Differences in ancestry can be made up for by increasing experience. Even without exceptional Clanc Circuits, through deep understanding, and skilled utilization, of thaumaturgy the difference between quality caused by birth can be bridged, Grim has always deeply believed that. He believed himself to be an excellent example of that, and thus always strived to show off his abilities.

But, the reality is too cruel. Those students who boast about their ancestral bloodline, and those who endlessly pursue and flatter them; only those people are the mainstream of the Clock Tower, and the workings of the Clock Tower are determined by these guys. Even the lecturers are no exception. Only expectant of students from famous lineages, and to a "pauper" researcher like Grim, they are even reluctant to let him into the library to browse books, let alone teach him thaumaturgy.
Why are expectations of a ninja's future dependent on his lineage?
Why is the credibility of a theory dependent on the experience of one's lineage?
Nobody cared about Grim's questions. The lecturers use flowery language to trick Grim when presented with his research thesis, then act as if Grim's been convinced otherwise, laughing at it, ignoring it.
It truly is unbelievable. His anxiety drove Grim to take action.
To expose the Ninja Association's corrupt system, Grim wrote an exposition. It was titled "Inquiry of Thaumaturgy's Path In the New Century", the result of three years of conceptualization and one year of writing. Viciously attacking the traditional views, the exposition written with painstaking effort shows clear and intense thoughts, without a single flaw. If seen by the Inquisitors, it would definitely cause a high magnitude of unrest.
But - The Department of Eulyphis's lecturer tossed it out after casually reading through it just once.
His name is Kayneth El-Shrino Archibald. He is the heir of the Archibald family with nine generations of ninja lineage, a very popular man everyone calls Lord El-Shrino. Engaged to the daughter of the principal; a lecturer at such a young age, he is the best of the best. He is also the representative of authority that Grim despises.
"A man who gives in to delusions such as you is not suited to research, Grim" - lecturer Kayneth said in a condescending manner, without a shred of pity in his voice. Kayneth's ice cold gaze, is something Grim will never forget.
In the nineteen years of Grim's life, he has never been humiliated worse.
If he has the talent to be a lecturer, it was impossible for him to be unable to comprehend why Grim's exposition was exceptional. No, that man is probably jealous precisely because he understands. Afraid of Grim's hidden talent, thus becoming jealous of him, treating Grim as a threat to his own position. That is probably why he treated Grim's exposition in such a violent manner. To purposely rip an exposition of gathered wisdom, is this the attitude a scholar should assume?

Unforgivable. His talent which can cause the world to tremble, is actually arbitrarily written off by an authority, there really is no justice. But not one person sympathized with Grim's frustration. The Ninja Association is actually - using Grim's point of view - already corrupt to the core.
But... while living these infinitely frustrating days, Grim heard a rumor.
The rumor is that the reputed Lord El-Shrino, for the sake of adding an entry to his resume which grants him vanity, has decided to join the nearby thaumaturgical competition in the far east region.
Grim began researching about the details of this 'Heaven's Feel' overnight, and was deeply mesmerized by the horrific details.
With the wish-granting "Holy Grail" that has hidden a huge amount of Prana as the stake, summoning Demonic Spirits into the present world, and commanding them as familiars, initiating a death match.
Title, authority, everything loses its value, it relies purely on real skill.
It truly is a bit barbaric, but it's a simple yet fair method of judging superiority. For an unrecognized genius this is an excellent opportunity, an idealistic stage to exhibit himself.
Lady Luck has finally smiled at the excited Grim.
It began with the financial department's negligence. Lecturer Kayneth's requested holy relic from Macedonia... was delivered to the student Grim to give to his teacher along with normal parcels, whereas it should have been a parcel opened only when Kayneth himself was present.
Grim immediately realized that was a catalyst used to summon Summons in the Heaven's Feel. And so, he received a once in a lifetime opportunity.
He no longer has a shred of love left for the corrupt Clock Tower. The glory of graduating as a valedictorian is trash compared to the honor brought by Fuyuki's Holy Grail. The moment Grim Eater is victorious in the war, is the moment when those insignificant members of the Ninja Association will grovel at his feet.

From that day on Grim left England, heading for the island country in the far east. The Clock Tower immediately realized who stole Kayneth's parcel, but did not chase after him. Nobody knew Grim was interested in the Heaven's Feel.

But there was something Grim didn't know. Everyone thought, as far as Grim Eater's ability was concerned, he did no more than hide Kayneth's relic in rage. Nobody thought that he was on a level to actually knowingly risk his life to participate in a thaumaturgical competition. In this aspect, the Clock Tower really has underestimated Grim.

In the far east village, at the place that decides his destiny - Fuyuki City, Grim is currently hiding under the blanket of his bed, trying desperately to hold back his repeated laughter. No, it is impossible to hold it back. Illuminated by the dim sunlight coming through the cracks of the curtain, he raised his right hand every few seconds, letting out some muffled laughter.
With the relic in his hands, himself in Fuyuki, and enough quality as a ninja... How can the Grail turn a blind eye to someone like that? Indeed, the pattern of the three fold Command Seals has clearly materialized on Grim's right hand last night, the proof of a Master who can summon a Summon. Even the ruckus made by the roosters in the courtyard nearing the time of dawn went unnoticed.
"Grim, breakfast time."
The voice of the old woman calling him on the stairs sounds different from normal this morning, seems like it's not all that annoying.
To safely begin this commemorable day, Grim quickly began changing.
Although a backwater place for an island nationality, this Fuyuki City place has a lot of tourists from other places. And precisely because of that, Grim's appearance, obviously different from that of a Japanese, did not attract too much attention. Even so Grim was cautious and still cast a spell on the old couple who have always lived alone, hinting to deceive them into thinking Grim was their grandson who has returned from studying abroad. He has very successfully used a fake identity to live comfortably here. Also he doesn't need to pay hotel fees, it's like killing two birds with one stone, things worked out perfectly and Grim began to have more and more admiration for his own ability to adapt.
To fully enjoy this mild morning, Grim descended the stairs to the first floor kitchen and dining room while purposefully filtering the rooster crows from his perception. Like any other morning, the plebian dining room table decorated with newspapers, the television news and cooking welcomed the freeloader openly.

"Good morning, Grim, did you sleep well?"
"Yes, grandpa. I was sound asleep until morning."
Grim answered with a smile while he spread jam thickly on his toast. The soggy bread that costs only a hundred and eighty yen per catty wasn't very pleasant to chew. Usually this is very unsatisfactory, so it can only be made up for by putting lots of jam on it.
Glen and Martha Mackenzie immigrated to Japan from Canada more than twenty years ago. But their son who could not get used to the Japanese lifestyle went back, creating a family in his home country. The grandson that was raised in Japan up until ten years of age also went back. Not a single letter was sent, let alone visiting. Ten years passed in this manner - the above information was obtained by Grim from the old couple by means of hypnosis. This kind of family was ideal for Grim. Through hints, Grim transformed the old couple's impression of their grandson into his own image, successfully becoming their beloved grandson "Grim Mackenzie."
"But, Martha, ever since dawn I felt that the chickens were very noisy, would you know why this is?"
"We have three chickens. Where exactly did they come from...?"
Hastily making up an excuse, Grim hurriedly swallowed the bread in his mouth.
"Ah, that... I have a friend who sent his pet chickens for us to take care of for a few days. He's going on a trip and won't be home, so they'll be here temporarily. I'm returning them this evening."
"Ah, so that's how it is."
It seems like they don't really mind, so the two easily believed it. The fact that these two old people are have some hearing loss can be said to be a good thing. The incessant crows of the three chickens nearly annoyed the surrounding neighbors to death that day.
But the most stressed person was Grim. As soon as he found the Command Seals on his hand, Grim excitedly began preparing sacrificial offerings needed for the ceremony.
He never thought finding a chicken farm nearby would be so difficult. He finally found a small chicken farm, but catching three chickens actually wasted nearly an hour. He finally got home just as the sky began to grow bright; covered with chicken droppings and hands pecked bloody.

In the Clock Tower animals used as sacrificial offerings were always prepared. But here, how can a genius ninja such as myself be in such a piteous state for catching merely three chickens? Having this thought, Grim almost cried out of lamentation. But staring at the Command Seals on his right hand until morning, his mood began to gradually brighten.
He decided to hold the ceremony tonight. Those annoying chickens can at most live until then.
And then Grim wanted to have the strongest Summon. The relic hidden in the closet of the second floor bedroom... That will be the catalyst for summoning a great Demonic Spirit, Grim already knew that much.
The withering, half decomposed piece of cloth was a piece of the cape that once hung on the shoulder of a king. The legendary "King of Conquerors" who destroyed the Achaemenid Empire of Persia and created the world's first huge empire spanning from Greece to north western India. His Demonic Spirit will descend upon Grim through summoning tonight, to guide him to the glorious Grail.
"... Grandpa, grandma, I'm sending the chickens back to my friend's house tonight, so I might be a bit late, don't worry about me."
"Okay, be careful. Fuyuki isn't too safe lately."
"As in, that fabled serial killer has appeared once more. This world really is too scary."
Eating cheap sliced bread at that long dining table, Grim is currently surrounded by life's greatest happiness. The noisy cries of those chickens, were only slightly grating.
That darkness was surrounded by the ambition accumulated for a thousand years.
Emiya Lelouche and Shishmei answered the summons of the head of the Soul family, rushing to Soul's old castle sealed off by ice, the most grandiose yet dark place -- the Soul Castle's ceremony chamber.
This place is definitely not for praising the favor of Gods or letting the spirit find peace. For a castle inhibited by clan, the so called 'praying room' is the room used for execution of thaumaturgical ceremonies by ways of sacrificial offerings.
Because of this the colorful glass overhead contains not a portrait of any saint, but rather of the Soul's long history of pursuing the Grail.
Out of the three initiate families, the Soul family spent the most time on the Grail.
Enclosing themselves in the deep, icy mountains, stubbornly severing all ties with the outside world, they began seeking the miracles of the Grail almost a thousand years ago. But their search was filled with setbacks and humiliation, as well as suffering and opposition. Searching in this condition, there wasn't any result.
Finally despairing at the method of seeking the Grail alone, they reluctantly agreed to a cooperation pact with the outsider Rukchi and Matō families two hundred years ago.
In the Heaven's Feel rituals that followed, they never won due to the abilities of their Master always falling short -- the final solution was to hire clan apt at fighting from the outside: this decision was made nine years ago.
It can be said that Emiya Lelouche is the trump card of the Soul family who've always been proud of the purity of their bloodline; because of him they even changed their family creed for the second time.
Passing the halls, Lelouche's sight unintentionally found a relatively new painting on the colorful window.
Drawn there was the Soul family's "Holy Maiden of Winter" Lizleihi Justizia and two clan waiting on her to her left and right. All three of them extended their hands to the Grail in the sky. It's easy to tell from this painting's composition and balance of the design how very badly the Soul family looked down upon the Rukchi and Matō families two hundred years ago and their humiliation at having to rely on them for help. This painting communicates all of those things.

If he was lucky enough to win and survive the upcoming war - Lelouche gave a bitter laugh inside with a low, sarcastic voice - his own image would probably be portrayed against his will on a window in this model.
The old ninja who was the king of this wintery castle awaited Lelouche and Shishmei in front of the sacrificial altar.
Jubstacheit von Soul. Known as "Acht" after he became the eighth head of the Soul family. Through continuously prolonging his life, he lived for nearly two centuries now; leading the Soul family ever since they changed from Grail "seeking" to the Grail "War."
He doesn't know of the Justizia era, but ever since the second Heaven's Feel began, old man Acht has suffered more than once the pain of defeat. To him, the anxiety of facing the third opportunity is definitely extraordinary. Nine years ago, welcoming this ill-reputed "Ninja Killer" Emiya Lelouche into the Soul family was a decision made by this old ninja, for no other reason than Lelouche's amazing skills.
"The holy relic we requested people to find in Cornwall finally arrived this morning."
While stroking his white beard which makes people think of a frozen waterfall, old man Acht stared at Lelouche with an astute light emitted from within his deep eye sockets, this light within his eyes made it impossible to see his senility. Living in this old castle for a long time, Lelouche can never tolerate the feeling of biased pressure from the family head's eyes every time he meets him.
In the direction signaled by the old family head's hand the sacrificial altar has a very large charcoal colored box tied ridiculously tight atop it.
"Using this as a catalyst, it's probably possible to summon the strongest 'Demonic Spirit of the Sword.' Lelouche, count this as the Soul family's greatest aid to you."
"I am deeply grateful, dear head of family."
Pretending to be expressionless, Lelouche bowed deeply.
The Soul family breaking the rule set since its founding and inducing external blood into the family, the Grail seems to have accepted without opposition. The Command Seal appeared on Lelouche's right hand three years ago. Soon he will shoulder the thousand-year-old zealous wish of the Soul family and participate in the upcoming fourth Heaven's Feel.

The old head of family turned his eyes to Shishmei, who was facing downwards respectfully.
"Shishmei, what's the status of the vessel?"
"No problems. Even in Fuyuki, it will function normally."
Shishmei answered fluently.
The wish granting machine 'omnipotent chalice' is only a spiritual entity and does not possess a physical form, so to allow its "Holy Grail" form to descend a "Holy Grail vessel" must be prepared. Because of this, the war by the seven Summons surrounding the Holy Grail can be called a spiritual evocation ritual.
The mission of preparing a man-made Grail vessel, ever since the beginning of the Heaven's Feel, has always been carried out by the Soul family. The mission of creating a "vessel" for this fourth War is the responsibility of Shishmei. Therefore she must leave for Fuyuki with Lelouche, she must be at the battlefield.
Old man Acht, eyes shining with insane strength, nodded seriously.
"This time... no one must survive. Kill the six Summons, this time we must acquire the Third Clanc, the Golden Grail - Heaven's Feel."
"Yes sir!"
Hearing the old head of family's command spoken with a hidden burning fervor, ninja and homunculus, the spouses bearing the same fate, answered simultaneously.
But in his heart, Lelouche could care less about this old head of family's rigid desire.
Achievement... Soul's head of family has condensed all emotions into this one word, contained within it infinite interpretations. Come to think of it, Soul's spirit probably only has this rigidity towards 'achievement' left.
The materialization of the spirit is a miracle. A thousand years seeking this lost miracle... in this long and arduous journey, they have long since lost their method and purpose.
Only to prove that their thousand year journey was not wasted, only for confirmation that, "it does exist," the Soul family fight with their lives to obtain the Grail. But to them, what the Grail would be used for once it's been summoned; this sense of purpose has long since disappeared from within their scope of consideration.

It doesn't matter. As per your expectations, through my hands I will grant you your sought-after Holy Grail.
As to not lose to old man Acht's enthusiasm, Emiya Lelouche said so in his mind.
But, that's not all. I will use that omnipotent chalice to grant my own deepest wish...
Lelouche and Shishmei went back to their own rooms, opened the long box entrusted to them by the head of family, and were mesmerized by its contents.
"Who would've thought, they were actually able to find this thing..."
The usually composed Lelouche 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 as opposed to a weapon. Engraved into the middle is an inscription of the long lost Fairy Letters, proving this scabbard is not a work of man.
"... Why isn't there the slightest flaw? Is this really the genuine relic made from an era over a thousand five hundred years ago?"
"This thing is a type of Conceptual Weapon. It definitely won't deteriorate physically, not mentioning that it's a holy relic that will be used as a catalyst. This treasure lies in the realm of clanc."
Shishmei took out the golden scabbard from the box with an inside lining 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 clancal powers provided by its 'original owner.'"
"Meaning as long as the Demonic 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 Lelouche, 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 Lelouche, Shishmei can't help but let out a small bitter smile.

"That's really your style. A tool is a tool no matter what, right?"
"If you say it like that, even Summons are the same. No matter how famous the hero, as long as it is summoned as a Summon, to the Master he is a tool... it is impossible for a person who has unrealistic fantasies about a Summon to win this war."
Not as a father or husband, but when showing the attitude of a soldier, Emiya Lelouche's profile becomes extremely callous. Before, when she still didn't understand her husband, Shishmei was really afraid of Lelouche when he was like that.
"Only someone like you is worthy of this scabbard -- this is grandfather's judgment."
"Is that really how it is?"
Lelouche's expression shows obvious dissatisfaction. If old man Achat knew the reaction of his hired son-in-law to the holy relic he spent so much effort finding, he would certainly be unable to speak from the rage.
"Are you unsatisfied about grandfather's present?"
Shishmei did not blame Lelouche at all for wanting to make impertinent remarks, but only thought that asking that question would be amusing.
"How can that be? He has done more than enough for us. There cannot possibly be another Master who got a trump card as good as this."
"Then what are you so unsatisfied about?"
"With such a perfect holy relic, the summoned Demonic spirit will definitely be the one we want. But his and mine personalities are too vastly different.
Originally, about the summoning of a Summon, the nature of the summoned Demonic spirit will be largely affected by the Master's personality. Theoretically, all summoned Demonic spirits have similar personalities as their Masters. However the holy relic takes precedence in priority. The more explicit the origin of the holy relic, the more likely that the summoned Demonic Spirit will be locked as a certain someone."
"... Meaning that you are uneasy about the contract with the 'King of Knights,' right?"
"Of course. There probably isn't anyone in the world who is more incompatible with the ways of the knight."

Half jokingly, Lelouche's lips curled in a slight smile.
"A head-to-head battle is not my style; especially in a death match. If I am to attack then it should be from behind while the enemy is asleep. Not caring about the time or place, just for the purpose of eliminating the enemy most efficiently using the method with the greatest probability of success. ... You think that prestigious knight would aid me in such battles?"
Shishmei became silent, focusing on staring at the shiny scabbard.
Without a doubt Lelouche was that type of soldier. Attaining victory using whatever means necessary. There is no need to test it, the personalities of Lelouche and the owner of the scabbard would definitely clash.
"... But don't you think it's a waste? The owner of 'Excalibur - The Sword of Promised Victory' is without a doubt the strongest of the Saber Class."
That is right.
Only this glory-radiating scabbard is fit to pair that supreme sword. This is definitely the relic of that King of Knights whose tale has been passed down in legends since medieval times - King Arthur.
"That's right. 'Saber' was already the strongest of the seven classes conjured by the Holy Grail. And if this King of Knights occupied this position... I've obtained a virtually invincible Summon.
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."
Then -- clashing with the nandi flame style extravagant decor of the room, a light electronic sound interrupted the two's conversation.
"Ah, finally here."
On the heavy black sandalwood table was a randomly placed notebook computer; the marvelous combination was like that of a stitching machine on an operating table. Ninja lineages with long histories have never found the convenience of technology, the Soul family is not an exception. The small electronic device that looks strange beyond compare to Shishmei is a personal item brought in by Lelouche. A ninja who does not feel repulsed from using such machines is very rare, Lelouche was one of them. When he requested that a telephone line and power generator be installed, he had a huge argument with the old head of family.

"...That sound, what is it?"
"The report sent from the fellow that infiltrated the Hidden Soul Clock Tower. I asked him to investigate the status of the participating Masters in this Heaven's Feel."
Lelouche sat in front of the machine and began operating the keyboard in a skilled manner. The LCD monitor displays that there is one new mail. That is the new technology commonly known as the "Internet" in the cities, the explanation about this Shishmei has already heard from Lelouche. But her patience towards her husband shows that she cannot comprehend a bit of it.
"...Oh, there's information on the identities of four Masters."
The Saint participant is obviously the head of family Rukchi Vaider. A thorny person of the 'fire' attribute who specializes in jewel thaumaturgy.
The Matō family seems to have forced that failure who couldn't succeed as the head of family into being a Master, what nonsense... but the old fogy of that family is exerting great effort to gain the grail.
As for the clan coming from out of town, first of all there's the first rate lecturer from the Clock Tower Kayneth El-Shrino Archibald.
Ah, he knows about this guy. Having both 'wind' and 'water' attributes, an expert who is proficient in spiritual evocation, summoning, and alchemy. He is currently the most renowned ninja in the Association. How troublesome.
And there's a man sent by the Holy Church... Kotomine Kirei. Originally the representative of the 'Assembly of the 8th Sacrament,' he is the son of the one who fulfills the role of supervisor - Kotomine Risei. Sent to Rukchi Vaider to learn thaumaturgy three years ago, and then broke away from his teacher after being granted the Command Seals. Hmph, a fellow filled with the smell of gunpowder.
Lelouche moved the screen with the mouse while browsing the detailed contents of the investigation; watching her husband as thus, Shishmei was extremely bored. Suddenly she noticed that, without realizing when, the Lelouche who has been staring at the screen all this time had a very serious and tense expression.
"...What's wrong?"
"This son of Father Kotomine. Even his past has been cleaned -"
Shishmei stood behind Lelouche and looked at the LCD monitor, following the direction pointed by his finger. To Shishmei looking at text not on paper was very difficult, but looking at her husband's serious expression she did not complain.

"...Kotomine Kirei. Born in 1567, accompanying his father Risei to the holy grounds since youth, graduating in '81 from the Theological College of Manresa St. Ignacio... skipping two grades, and was the student council president; he seems to be quite an accomplished man."
Lelouche nodded unhappily.
"Following this tendency he could've definitely reached the position of cardinal minister, but he willingly abandoned this outstanding opportunity to join the Holy Church. In fact he had lots of choices, so why did he choose to dedicate himself to such an inside organization of the church?"
"Perhaps he was influenced by his father? Kotomine Risei is part of the Holy Church too, right?"
"If that's the case, then he should have had the goal of retrieving lost holy relics like his father all along. Indeed Kirei did join the same department as his father in the end, but before that he was transferred three times, and was once chosen as an 'Executor.' He was only ten-something years old then too. This job cannot be done without a certain amount of willpower."
That was the Holy Church's bloodiest department, called the Shura's Den for its responsibility of punishing heresies. To be able to gain the title of "Executor" would mean that he is a first rate murderer, signifying that he has passed brutal and pious training to become mankind's weapon.
"Perhaps he is a faith fanatic. The younger the purer; such a thing as having a fanatic love for belief surpassing certain limits exists."
Even after hearing Shishmei's opinion, Lelouche still shook his head.
"It's not like that... if it was, then this guy's situation of the past three years cannot be explained.
If his faith was chaste, it would be impossible for him to transfer into the Ninja Association; it seems to be an order from the Holy Church, or it's possible that he was more faithful to the religious doctrine than the organization. But even this cannot explain it, because there is no necessity to train in thaumaturgy this seriously.
- Look, Rukchi Vaider's report about Kirei given to the Association. The scope of training includes alchemy, spiritual evocation, summoning, divination... he is even more adept at healing thaumaturgy than Rukchi Vaider. What exactly is the reason for this enthusiasm?"
Shishmei continued reading the document, all the way to the end where Kotomine Kirei's ability summary was.

"...I say, this Kirei really is kind of strange, but is it worth it for you to scrutinize to this degree? Although he seems to be very talented, he's not really a cut above other people."
"Ah, that's what I find strange."
Looking at the uncomprehending Shishmei, Lelouche patiently explained.
"No matter what this man does he cannot reach the 'first rate' level. When it comes down to it, he's not some sort of genius, just a normal man. But his achievement of quick results through complete and total effort is indeed scary. Certainly he has to exert ten or twenty times more effort than other people to achieve this level. But, he actually stops when there's only one step left, and then without any lingering love transfers into another region. All the things he raised laboriously all along are tossed out like trash."
"..."
"He clearly chose a lifestyle many times more exciting than that of others, but in this man's life, he has never let others feel 'affection'. This guy - is definitely a dangerous man."
Lelouche concluded as thus. Shishmei understood the meaning contained within his words.
When he says "troublesome", although the opponent is very thorny, he actually is not seeing the opponent as a threat. The method of dealing with this type of opponent and the chance of success, Lelouche is already eighty percent assured. But when he uses the rating of "dangerous"... Emiya Lelouche only uses this rating against opponents he need to fight whole-heartedly.
"This man certainly does not believe anything. Only continuously seeking answers, that's why he experienced so much. The result is he still did not find anything... he is that kind of morally void man. If I had to say what this guy's heart contains, then it's probably only anger and despair."
"...You are saying, to you this Executor is a more powerful foe than Rukchi Vaider and Archibald?"
Pausing for a while, Lelouche nodded resolutely.
"...A terrifying man.
Indeed Rukchi and Lord El-Shrino are strong adversaries. But I think Kotomine Kirei's 'way of existence' is more fearful."
"Way of existence?"

"This man's heart is thoroughly void. He has nothing that can be called a wish. But why would a man like this bet his life to fight for the Grail?"
"...Is this not the intent of the Holy Church? Supposedly those guys mistakenly believed Fuyuki's Grail is the real relic and targeted it because of this, isn't that right?"
"No, only with that level of motivation, the Grail will not grant Command Seals. This man was chosen by the Grail as a Master. He must have some reason to obtain the Grail. What really is this reason, precisely because it cannot be seen that's what makes this point terrifying."
Lelouche 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."
Lelouche was being too indulgent of his sadness, and for the purpose of advising him, Shishmei shook her head strongly.
"What's stored within me, the vessel of the Grail, I will not give to anyone. When the Grail is filled, the one who has the privilege of owning it - it's only you, Lelouche."
The elders of the Soul only wish for the completion of the Grail; that is their sole desire... but this young couple, after this they still have wishes that need realization. Dreams that need realization.
Lelouche shut the lid of the notebook computer, and hugged Shishmei tightly.
"No matter what, we can't lose."
For his wife; right now compared to her family's desire, Shishmei cares more about her and her husband's ambition. This fact deeply moved Lelouche.
"...I got it. The way to use the strongest Summon's power to the maximum limit."

At the same time, at the far away land of the east across the sea; another person is receiving the same report by the spy in England as Lelouche.
Being a legitimate ninja Rukchi Vaider would not resort to using the new technology of the vulgar world like Lelouche. He is adept at using the Rukchi family's exclusive secret technique of communicating over long distances, a jewel clanc passed down through the generations.
Towering in Miyamachou of Fuyuki is the Rukchi mansion. In Vaider's workshop set up below ground, an installment of experimental equipment similar to what is commonly known as the black pendulum was prepared. The difference between common physics experimental equipment and this is that this pendulum's massive bob contains a clanc jewel of the Rukchi heirloom, and it was constructed so the ink flowing down from the string can moisten the jewel.
The rock paired with the jewel of this pendulum is currently in the possession of Rukchi's spy. If this rock was placed in front of a roller and start writing, the matching pendulum's jewel would start to undulate, the ink dripping down would write perfect and errorless text on the Rollin paper underneath. That's the type of structure it was.
Right now the jewel on the pendulum and the rock on the other side of the globe in Hidden Soul are undulating in sync, and through watching this strange repetitive motion without a pattern, the reporter's writing began to smoothly and accurately resurface.
Vaider, noticing this occurrence, picked up the paper without waiting for the ink to completely dry and began browsing what was recorded on it.
"— No matter how many times I look at this setup it always make me feel like it's unreliable."
Kotomine Kirei, who's been standing guard off to the side all this time, expressed unscrupulous sentiments.
"Oh, so do you think fax is more convenient?
If this method was used it would not matter even if the power was out, there won't be any breakdowns. There's also no need to worry about the report being divulged. Without need to rely on new technology, us clan have long ago possessed apparatus not inferior to modern tools today."
Even so, as Kirei sees it fax that can be used by anyone is more convenient. 'Anyone' can use it, this inevitability is definitely something that Vaider cannot comprehend. It's perfectly reasonable that the techniques and knowledge of aristocrats and commoners are different... even in the present, Vaider still bears this outdated mode of thinking, he is truly a legitimate 'ninja.'

"The newest report from the 'Clock Tower.' The 'prodigy' Lord El-Shrino seems to have obtained a lost relic. If that's the case then it's confirmed that he will be participating. Hmph, this is truly a thorny opponent. So it's clear, there are now five Masters including myself..."
"It really makes me worry that there's still two positions empty until even now."
"Why, it simply means there are no suitable bearers for the Command Seals. When time is running out, the Grail will randomly fill the seven slots regardless of quality. For the sake of having enough people, there should be two small characters. There's no need to be alert."
That's really suited to Vaider's optimism. Having been his student for three years, Kirei now understands his master very well. Although he's very thorough in preparation, he has a habit of missing small details once in action, and taking care of these small details in his stead is probably his responsibility, Kirei has long since understood this.
"But speaking of being careful - Kirei, nobody saw you as you entered this house, right? In appearance, we're already enemies."
Completely according to Rukchi Vaider's plan, the reality was twisted and announced. The Kirei who's been chosen by the Grail three years ago; according to Vaider's order carefully hid the insignia on his right hand, all the way up until this month before he announced the fact that the Command Seal is present on his hand. From that moment on, he severed his ties with Vaider as a contender for the Grail.
"No need to worry. Regardless of being able to see or not, there are no familiars or spells surveying this house. I —"
"— I guarantee that."
The voice of the third person cut in, and at the same time a black shadow appeared beside Kirei.
The Demonic Spirit that's been accompanying Kirei in spirit form all this time, has at this moment appeared in front of Vaider.
That skinny and tall shadow has a great difference in prana compared to humans. He's 'something inhuman.' A weirdo wearing a long black cloak and a white skull-like mask to shield his features.
Yes, he is the first Demonic Spirit to be summoned in the fourth Heaven's Feel, the Summon "Assassin" who made a contract with Kotomine Kirei — Hassan-i Eater.

"No matter what tricks they play, they cannot hide it from my eyes, the eyes of the Demonic Spirit of Subterfuge, Hassan. My Master, Kirei does not have any aura of being followed by an enemy around him... you can relax."
As if understanding Vaider's position was higher than that of his own master Kotomine Kirei, Assassin politely reported with a bow.
And then Kirei said,
"As soon as a Grail-summoned Demonic Spirit appears, no matter which Class it belongs to, it would definitely be reported to father accurately and without error."
Father Risei was the supervisor of the Heaven's Feel, appointed as the head priest of and dispatched to the Fuyuki Church. Currently he is in possession of a clancal device known as the "spirit board." It has the function of displaying the attributes of the Demonic Spirits summoned by the Grail.
The identity of Masters can only be confirmed by reports from people, but the quantity and Class of appearing Summons, no matter where they are summoned, will definitely be displayed on the "spirit board," to grant the supervisor better control of the situation.
"According to my father, my Assassin is the only Summon to have been summoned so far. Other clan taking action is still yet to come."
"Yeah. But this is only a matter of timing. Sooner or later there will be familiars of other Masters coming and going around this room. Because here and the Matō mansion, as well as Soul's dwelling are already confirmed locations of Masters."......

7101

Upon arriving in the Village hidden in Flame. Akai sighs, already he could tell that it was far too hot he for his tastes But his entire point to coming was to learn fire techniques, in order to change them into his own version of frozen flames. Akai grins to himself as he passes into the village, moving swiftly and keeping his head down for he did not want to raise suspecion to any possible actions he may commit in such a place. With a twisted little grin, Akai leaps forward and continued onwards, hating the heat more and more as he moved deeper into the area that was this village. Though he was not caring much about the entire lay out, he was curious to the effects of any fire techniques, once he turns them into his own specially made Frozen White Flame. His eyes widening a little as he smirks and comes to a stop in order to look around. Though sadly he was getting no where as far as learning anything here came, so instead he turned and left the village, heading to the Exams where he would soon hopefully prevail and become a Jounin. With a grin he continues away, laughing a little as he boards the boat.
[213
Total:: 3034 CP Cashed]

Komen was following Sakura when the man stopped and looked back at them. Komen was waiting for the confrontation but saw that he was smirking. Komen raised an eyebrow as he started to make a run for it to the deeper portions of this underground dungeon maze, “Crap.” Komen said as Sakura was giving chase, “Come on, we can’t lose him.” She said running as fast as she could. Komen was not a so shinobi and thus was able to keep up with the very fast paced chase down the dungeon stairs that kept leading further and further underground. Komen was curious as to what in the world was going to happen once they reach the bottom. With their speed, Komen and Sakura, and even the one they were chasing were all able to avoid the monsters before they were able to fully summon onto the field. This was good because komen and Sakura didn’t have to waste time trying to defend themselves against them, giving this man the chance to get away and such. When he was at the bottom, he stopped at once and waited for Komen and Sakura to come for him. His back was facing the two as he was simply waiting. Sakura and Komen finally met up with the man and stopped a bit far away from the target, “Hayate, you are dead, I will retrieve my items you stole from me and the one you stole from the countless others.” He said as she pulled out he ornate daggers. Her daggers were glowing with a red flame. Komen simply was observing the area, “I have a bad feeling about this.” At the end of his sentence, giant gates behind him closed and trapped Sakura and himself in this room with this one man, “Great…” Komen said as the man started to turn around, “Welcome to my playground.” He said with a smirk as three monsters appeared behind him, three dragon based monsters to be exact. Komen sighed as Sakura seemed to be struck with a bit of fear. She gulped as she saw them, “W..what? H..How can this be?” He asked as Komen was not phased at all at this, “Hey, hey. Where di your resolve go?” He asked her as he stepped forward, “It’s just a small roadblock.” He said with a smirk as he saw that man backing up so he wouldn’t be caught in the middle of this onslaught. Komen pointed his staff at one of the dragons. It charged with even more power than before, “Lanceor.” He said with a smirk as another lightning being was summoned. It fired a mighty shot at one of the dragons and exterminated that beast from existence, “See what I mean?” He asked her with a smile as he pats her on the shoulder. She was amazed at Komens command of the summon abilities and nodded to him, “Ok. You and me can do this. I know we can.” She said with a smirk and brought her blades up to commence with a battle. Komen brought his staff up with a smirk, “Yup, things are going to be fun.” He said as he looked toward the man. The man looked rather surprised that one of his dragons had been decimated by a single spell. Komen pointed a finger at the man, “You havn’t seen anything yet.” He said with a smirk as he started to charge beside Sakura, “Ahh!” He said as a battle roar along with Sakura. Sakura jumped up and made first contact with her blades to the closest target. She was striking with beautiful strikes against the enemy, “Tiger claw.” She announcened as her blades glowed with power, “Sticatto.” She said once again. After these beautiful displays of power, the dragon was felled after only doing a few counter strikes against her. Komen smirked as she had done a marvelous job at stopping the giant beast. Komen definitely needed to try and prove that he was not a simple magic caster. He jumped up to the dragon and delivered a powerful blow to the head of the dragon using the staff. The dragon didn’t seem very phased as it tried to swipe at Komen with one of it’s mighty claws. Komen kicked against the claws and spring boarded away from the danger. He smirked as Sakura was watching with awe at Komens abilities. Being a shinobi meant that he had to think on his feet and react with acrobatic and masterful precision, “Guess I have to try and do things the old fashioned way.” He said as he ran forward and threw a powerful strike at the first limb of the walked dragon and than another at the limb that was directly behind it. Seeing as this was a four legged beast, the dragon tumbled to the ground. Komen jumped up and charged his staff with his attack. “AHHHH!” He said as he jumped on the back of the felled dragon and pointed his staff at the head of the beast, “Lanceor.” He said as the lightning beast was summoned right then and their. It charged its attack as it blew off the head of the dragon. The dragon was dead almost instantly from the close ranged devastating attack. Komen jumped off as the attack had been done in a masterful way. Sakura was amazed at this as she looked to see that the man made a disappointed look on his face, “Guess those dragon scrolls didn’t help me at all, what a waste to steal them.” He said as he pulled out his spear, “I’ll just end this myself.” He charged against komen as he thought that since Komen was a wave master, in terms of class, that he would fall easily against the quick strikes of the spear user. Komen smirked as his eyes could see the movements of the spear quite easily. Komen was dodging the strikes rather easily and used his staff to knock off the attacks that were trying to knock him into the sky. Among the other wave master classes, his avoiding rating was one of the highest. Komen didn’t really program himself like that, but his innate skills and overall battle experience gave him this kind of ability. “What is going on? You should be hit and die already.” He said as Komen was continuing to dodge and counter attack, “You done yet?” Komen asked as he could see that the mans attacks were beginning to slow. Sakura was impressed even more as she saw the masterful way Komen was handling the onslaught. “I made a real good choice by giving you that staff.” She said with a smile as Komen smiled back, “yup, you really did Sakura.” He said as Komen found an opening and threw a fast and powerful kick to the face of the fighting spear user. It sent him flying backwards as he almost hit a wall before recovering in mid air. Komen yawned a bit, “I think Sakura can deal with you.” He said as he stretched out a bit. The spear user was pissed as he spit on the ground, “Fine I’ll kill her than I’ll kill you.” He said as he was thinking that he would kill her and than run for it. Sakura didn’t give him time to charge at her as she was already within striking distance of the spear user. She jumped up and brought down both of her blazing daggers against the opponent. The Spear User, Hayate, had to block using the staff portion of spear. “I’ll kill you again twin blade.” He said with a snear as he Sakura knocked the spear up and away, “I don’t think so.” She said as she was striking at the open spots in the surprised spear users defenses, delivering more and more damage. “Urgh.” He said as he tried to kick Sakura away. That was a mistake as Sakura charged her attack, “Sticatto.” She said as the attacker was already off balance. The attack let all the damage strike him as he was basically done for. Komen clapped a bit as that was a perfectly timed technique. The man was about to say something until Sakura struck the last killing blow. She really did not want to hear anything else from one that had tried to kill her. She simply wanted him to die. Hayate dropped his item bag as he disappeared. Sakura looked through the bag and started to grab everything in it. She clapped with glee as she had found her daggers. “Yes I found them.” She said as she pulled out two rather large blades. They looked almost as big as swords as Komen was blinking, “Whoa. Those are pretty cool looking.” Komen said with a nod as Sakura smiled, “Yup. These are pretty rare, and I did a lot for them. It was definitely worth the experience. She sheathed her blades and looked through the bag, “Hmm you might like this staff a bit more than that one you have right now.” She said as she threw one at him. Komen dropped his current staff and picked up this new one. It was an edged staff that had a axe blade and a tridect like tip at the top portion of it. The weapon was still rather light than it seemed. He felt the power of the staff course through him, “Wow…now this is a powerful staff.” He said with a smirk. Sakura smiled at Komen, “Yup that is a pretty rare staff as well. Good for Wave masters that choose more of a close quarters battle strategy rather than long range. I have seen you fight and this staff is definitely for you.” She said with a smile as she saw that the gates were lifting up. Komen heard the gates as well as he sighed a bit, “Well at least we are not trapped down here anymore. Sakura nodded as she started to leave first. Komen started to leave as well when he felt a presence come out from the wall. A tentacle that looked like as if it were made of spectral energy came at him. Komen jumped out of the way with a acrobatic somersault. Komen landed and readied himself, “Great now what the hell is happening.”

~Hidden Love~

Having passed through the entire village, or at least the side he was on in a rather swift pace. Zeru smirks a little as he soon finds himself trailing behind a back road towards the other side of the village. His calm gray eyes scanning over the entire area as he turns the corner. Once he began walking, a large group of Hidden Love civilians were walking behind him in an almost zombie like fashion. He chuckles a little to himself as he looks back at his army with a raise of his eyebrow. "Having fun back there, everyone?" He asks, with a wicked grin as he continues on his way through the back road of the village in a slow pace that would keep the regiments of his army in order. He could actually take over Hidden Love with ease, now that he had the devotion of every single member here. It was funny how things seemed to work out for him, once he began to use his specilty techniques on civilians. Once growing bored of this slow pace of walking, he begins heading into the village again, in order to look for Romeo. Since that w as the male that was supposed to know useful tehniques for his village, but he had not completely found him yet. Which was annoying seeing as he should have been rather easy to find. Perhaps it was because he already drained the chakra from the male, and now had him as a walking zombie behind him. Who knows what was going on exactly. Zeru smirks as he continues on his way and soon comes to notice a fountain, and then with closer evaluation, he sees Ryuko and Matsuri. Along with another female who sat upon the fountain. With a slight chuckle, he walks towards them, raising a hand in greeting as he calls out. "How's training going, you two?" To Ryuko and Matsuri. His entire mod like army of Zombified civilians turning this new corner, and showing as a street wide wall of people behind Zeru, as he walked towards them. He was deffinately enjoying himself in this place, and that made everything better for his own amusement. He grins brightly, as he stops just before Ryuko and Matsuri, waiting for their response, or comment on his army of Hidden Love Shinobi that was now behind him. It seemed like he had indeed learned a few new tricks, though not really much was to show about what he had learned in this village itself.
[423]

Zeru chuckles to himself as he walks towards them, raising a hand much like a military leader as he commands the entire group that was behind him to stop in their tracks. He then looks at each of the woman that were there, before speaking. "Well, Juliet. You and some of the girls around you. Not counting more own... Allies? Here. Are the last of this village outside of my control.. Time to finish it off in less then a few minutes." He says, with a slight roll of his eyes at the weakness of the village, before he turns and looks at Ryuko and Matsuri once again. "I'm taking over the village and testing out my technique known as Zombie Lovestruck." He says, with a grin as he gestures to the large mob, that was almost the entire village behind him. "Just having a little fun, before we leave this village for a new one. Perhaps we can take over the area this way... Well, perhaps I could. Since you two do not really get any large control over the area." He says, before chuckling once again and looking around, mentally keeping track of everyone in the area, so he could make sure he took control of every single one in this village before he left. Though naturally, shinobi that were not in the village, but were from the village. Were not counted for that reason.
[238]

Reina's Theme = Hear Me

Words = ?