Chapter 10: Rin's Viridian Adventure
-108:24:36
Risei set down the report to rub his tired eyes. His shoulders ached, his fingers were beginning to feel numb. I'm not a young man anymore, he grumbled to himself while falling back into his seat. He grabbed his cup from nearby and took a sip of water, lamenting with a dash of irony that it wouldn't magically transform into wine. What I'd give for that miracle...
The priest had been spending the last few days coordinating the coverup of Caster and his Master's continued kidnappings. The rescue of ten children in the previous night had been wonderful (he'd taken the time to bless those Heroic Spirits responsible) but still necessitated him to have their memories cleaned of any magical properties behind their abductions. That included handling their families, the police officers, and just about anyone close to them.
The TV nearby was coincidentally showing a reporter delivering the official story: "The children had been trapped somewhere in Miyama Town's outskirts, but a group of people stumbled by chance upon them and tried to free them. The kidnappers had intervened, and a bloody battle broke out. All ten slipped away in the confusion and stayed together until reaching the police station, but officials have stated that they're all heavily shaken by the events. Parents have collectively insisted on postponing all questions; they're just happy to have them back safely. The criminals, however, remain at large." The man shuffled his papers before continuing. "The same goes for the robbers of Fumihiko Bank-"
Risei picked up the remote and hit the power button, shutting off the TV. He sighed to himself about the admittedly rushed solution. It had been exhausting but crucial. A single loose thread could unravel the entire shroud they'd established, revealing not only the Holy Grail War, but all of the Moonlit World.
But no sooner had he managed to stabilize that situation did a new complication arise. Miss Sophia-Ri had "regretfully" informed him that her fiancé Lord El-Melloi had perished. At the hands of one of his own Servants, no less. In the long term, Risei and Lord Tokiomi were sure to have a number of lengthy discussions with the Archibald family about this. But even putting that charming prospect aside, the lady had also explained Lancer had agreed to fighting in her name, thus making her a new Master. The way she had described it made it sound like an engagement.
Oh yes, and she remembered amidst her bliss to mention that Archer X, her betrothed's killer, had gone rogue, as an afterthought.
Tokiomi had not been happy when Risei relayed the news. Granted, he had already seemed on edge due to repeatedly arguing with Lancer X (She's been rather tense as well, a shame. She's a charming conversationalist.), but this was yet another event he hadn't anticipated. From the standpoint of a magus, El-Melloi's death meant perhaps the one Master who might've surpassed the Tohsaka patriarch in Thaumaturgy was no longer a threat. Sophia-Ri lacked her family crest, she couldn't hope to match his prestige.
However, Archer X was now the third Servant that had deviated from the Grail War's outline. The first, Berserker X, had joined forces with Iskandar, a Heroic Spirit whom Risei's master considered to be a potential rival for Archer, and the second, Caster, had gone on a kidnapping/killing spree. The report on his desk had been transcribed by one of the Hassan's; according to them, Waver Velvet's team had recently sundered that lunatic's base of operations. Technically, a good thing that a Caster's territory was gone, but with the Servant still running free, he could simply set shop elsewhere.
But at the very least, they had some idea what Caster was up to. Archer X's motives and targets were a complete mystery. What's worse, none of the Assassins had mentioned any idea to her whereabouts. Even Risei, the overseer of this Holy Grail War, had failed to discern her exact location. Either she is that good at hiding, the priest frowned at himself, or someone is concealing her. Lancer was apparently chasing his ex-partner, but she was still a major loose end. It made him wonder why that sort of Servant had yet to show any sign.
The frown shifted to a scowl. Speaking of loose ends… His thoughts had drifted to a certain Servant of metal and mockery.
No matter how much Risei tried to calm himself through prayer or self-assurances, he just couldn't shake the feeling that Rider X was trouble. The way that behemoth came and went as he pleased, offering nothing but derisive jabs at his beliefs and faith what few times they had conversed, those crimson lights for eyes, shining with an open malice that brought scriptures of the Devil to the priest's mind…
He trusted and loved his son with all his heart, but a question had emerged the very first time Kirei had introduced him to the "Heroic" Spirit, one that had continued to scratch at his mind over the War's course: how could my boy summon a soul that wicked? He'd been telling himself it was likely a test set by the Lord, a chance for Kirei to prove his light against a force of great darkness.
But the worries had not lessened.
Another sigh escaped the old father. The Third Grail War had never been this complicated, even with the Imperial Army and Nazis getting involved.
The spark of humor faded, though, when he remembered the flames. The sounds of battle, echoing all around him. The cries of agony and death. The failure…
Risei started at the sound of something dripping. He glanced about to find the source before realizing it was close. He looked down; the cup in his hand had been crushed. Droplets of water mixed with blood dribbled through his fingers onto the floor below. The priest wiped away the sweat from his brow and made to clean it up.
The War seemed to be more erratic with each passing hour, but he trusted Lord Tokiomi to find a way to resolve this. He had to. This will most likely be my last chance to witness a miracle. And who better to use it on something reliable than a magus like Tokiomi Tohsaka?
Risei Kotomine never regretted serving the Tohsaka family. It had been a pleasure and an honor. But he couldn't help but worry about his son. His son who had always looked so lost in life, who may still mourn the passing of his wife and the relinquishment of his daughter. A tear began to gather in the grandfather's eye. Caren…
As he picked up the broken ceramic, his right sleeve curled up, giving Risei a glimpse of the many Command Seals he'd been entrusted with. As the overseer of the Holy Grail War, he was responsible for maintaining a neutral position. But as a father… as a grandfather… wasn't it his responsibility to help? Especially against a being as monstrous as that Servant?
Risei cleaned away the broken cup and spilled liquid. There was much to do while the sun was up. But his thoughts would persist.
Ūhei stepped slowly along the grass, snout low and sniffing carefully. A moment later, he muttered, "Yeah, she was definitely here." He took another sniff. "And she wasn't alone."
Kiritsugu crouched next to the dog and brushed along the grass. "Little sign of tracks for someone wearing heavy armor," he noted. He patted a spot where earth had sunk in. "She must've dropped something heavy. Any scent there?" The greyhound shook his head. "An object, then." The Mage Killer muttered while scanning the area. Nobody around in this part of Miyama Town right now. Bounded Field up made their job easier.
Then his eyes narrowed at a spot further away where the ground appeared to have sunk in. Or something heavy had fallen there. Assassin X was already there with another hound. Akino circled the slight crater before stopping with a growl. His master crouched down to scratch his head. "What's wrong, boy?"
The sunglasses on the dog's snout did little to hide his concern. "I think Rider X was here." The non-canines stiffened at the mention of that Servant. Akino sniffed again before nodding. "No, I'm positive he was here. This spot looks like somewhere he'd land, and his sight is all over the spot."
The Servant of Assassination checked the forest. "Well, whatever confrontation happened here, it didn't turn into a fight," he observed from the obvious lack of damage to their surroundings. "I doubt even Rider X could kill Archer X without her putting up some form of a struggle. And Archer X isn't one to restrain herself when dealing with an enemy."
Ūhei shuffled nervously. "You think they're working together now?"
"Or they're at least not fighting each other," Kiritsugu answered, absentmindedly scratching the hound's ear. They'd been trying to track down Archer X ever since Shiba had reported her falling out with her team. Lancer and his spear were still a credible hindrance to Saber's performance, but the black-armored Servant cutting ties with him had been unexpected. She'd become a wild card, and Kiritsugu wanted to have at least an idea of what she was up to. It was either that or get blindsided by someone obviously well-trained in guerilla tactics.
So far, his group had followed two different trails that had led nowhere, and Maiya, accompanied by a Shadow Clone of Assassin X, had reported the same for another one. Archer X had obviously been setting up false tracks to throw them off the scent. She was clever, but the Mage Killer's persistence had paid off.
And this new information confirmed his prior suspicions. While certainly having a short temper, the foreign Servant hadn't struck him as someone who'd kill her Master so rashly. Or at least, not without a backup plan. She had to know that Independent Action could only sustain her for a limited time without a steady mana supply, so she would've both claimed Archibald's Command Seals and striven to find an alternative. A new Master, or something else.
Kiritsugu remembered the curious gaze Saber had given him when he'd first explained his theory to his team. "With respect, Master, you seem fairly confident of what Archer X's actions may be." She'd noted.
Her Master had simply collected his things. "They're what I would do."
Assassin X was remembering that exchange as well even as he grew apprehensive about Rider X's involvement. Did Kirei Kotomine send him to collect her? Does that mean Archer X has become his Servant, too? Not a comforting prospect, and judging by his Master's expression, they were on the same page.
Another growl from Akino drew their attention. His nostrils flared again before he bared his teeth in a snarl. "And something… vile showed up too." He hacked up a cough. "Almost as bad as that Caster bastard."
Kiritsugu frowned at the information. Someone else was here? Who could that be? Another Servant, or a human to be her new Master? He mulled over the possibilities. Kirei Kotomine? …No. Even if Akino's never smelt him before, I don't think "vile" would be the word to describe that man. But who else?
Kakashi considered the possibilities as well, the confusion on his face hidden by his mask. He glanced down to his boys. "Can you guys trace them?" Their best chance of getting answers (and maybe putting an end to both Servants) was to go after the ones that had been here.
Both hounds began to walk slowly about in a circle, widening their area with each pass. Their snouts went to the ground, then up, then back down again. But after a minute of careful sniffing, the duo grumbled in frustration. Akino finally reported, "Something was used to mask the scents. A spell, or something? Either way, the trails stop here."
Kiritsugu clicked his tongue disappointed. So many questions with the answers eluding them. And the sun was soon to set, meaning that they'd have to get moving lest another group appear and decide to attack them. He pulled out a cigarette. "Let's go. Maybe we have a better chance from higher ground." With a snap of his lighter, smoke began to waft from him.
The hounds looked down, growing guilty at the man's discontent. Assassin X gave both of them a light pat on the head. He'd hoped that his pack would simplify tracking down the other teams, but if experience had taught him anything, it was things were never that easy. He followed his Master, both still pondering the possibilities.
Then Ūhei, his snout still hanging by the grass, let out a low growl. His eyes narrowed at something amidst the blades. Assassin X turned to find him pawing at the spot but keeping his distance at the same time. Curious, the Servant bent down and reached out his left hand.
Kiritsugu had been gauging how to adapt a plan originally for dispatching Kayneth. But if done right, it could be used to get rid of Sophia-Ri and Lancer. When he turned back, cigarette in hand, he found the veteran ninja holding something up to the sun's light. He stepped closer to have a better look. "What is that?"
"Something Ūhei found just now." Assassin X briefly pushed up his headband to check with the Sharingan. "…I think it's a dead worm, but there's definitely traces of mana here."
"Mana?" Kiritsugu accepted the slender thing with care; it was so frail it nearly crumbled at his touch. Indeed, the remains of a worm, but not quite like anything he'd seen before. Still, he too could sense a hint of magic amidst its decaying body. "Fresh, too. But the worm shouldn't be rotting this quickly." He had a hunch what it could really be, though.
The Master pulled out a plastic bag from his coat pocket and carefully laid the worm inside. As he stowed it away, he said, "Come on, while there's still daylight." He took another puff from his cigarette while rubbing first Ūhei's head, then Akino's. "Good boys."
Kiritsugu tried not to smile from their pleased noises before they poofed away; he might've retained a hint of his childhood love for dogs. An infinitesimal part of the cynical magi hunter had been delighted when he felt the experience of his Shadow Clone summoning Biscuit for the first time. And now I can do it whenever I want.
Assassin X still noticed it, of course. But he chose to let them walk in silent contemplation, his own smile hidden by his mask.
In the Shinto district, Sola-Ui Nuada-Re Sophia-Ri was walking slowly down a branch off the main street. She stared down at the collection of vibrating nails in her left hand before giving a tired sigh. 'Lancer, this isn't working,' she explained telepathically. 'Even if I knew exactly how these functioned, Archer X could be on the other side of the city by now.' She pocketed her late fiancé's Mystic Code. 'Let's return to the Hyatt and make a new plan.'
And perhaps enjoy some time alone… Sola-Ui added to herself as she awaited her Servant's reply. 'Please, Lady Sola-Ui. Let's try for a little longer while we have daylight. Archer X is a credible threat that we have to stop as soon as possible.' He tried to sound calm, but an undercurrent of anger laced those words.
Still, it rankled the woman slightly. 'I understand your frustration,' she pushed herself to be reasonable, 'but don't give that brute too much credit. Remember, I severed my mana connection to her yesterday. Even with Independent Action, she can only last so long in this world on her own terms.'
'But she retains her Command Seals. And there are ways for Servants to replenish mana. Archer X will certainly be aware of them via the Holy Grail's knowledge.'
'You mean drinking the life forces of others?' Sola-Ui scoffed at the notion. 'That sort of method yields little energy. She could drain an entire building's worth of people dry and expend all of that mana in one drawn-out battle.'
'What of that contraption she stole? The Reactor our lord had told us of, originating from-'
Her patience had begun to fray. She briskly stepped into an alley and "said", 'Lancer, materialize yourself. If we must have this talk, let's do it face-to-face.' Her tone brokered no argument.
And Diarmuid, first knight of Fianna, would never refuse a lady's request. Sola-Ui's heart fluttered as the handsome Servant appeared amidst a shower of blue dust with a frown. He opened his mouth to speak, but while she'd normally welcome his velvet-laden words, the Master preempted his protests. "Anything associated with the Lord Wizard Marshall is extremely risky, Lancer. Even with Kayneth blurting out how it works, Archer X doesn't have the slightest idea how to work the Reactor. She came from a world of science, technology. What could she possibly know about a device of such advanced magecraft that Kayneth showed reluctance around it?
"If she tries to fiddle around with it, she'll likely scatter herself across dimensions." Sola-Ui stepped closer to him with a soft smile. "We don't need to worry ourselves silly over that cretin."
But Lancer crossed his arms while shifting to the side with a frown. "Regardless of Archer X's plans or aptitude with magic," he stated, "she was my partner and chose to betray our lord. That makes her my responsibility." He cast a gaze so determined at her that she took a step back. "My apologies, Lady Sola-Ui. But I cannot relax until Archer X has been stopped." His right fist clenched. "Preferably at the tips of my spears."
With that, he stepped carefully out of the alley to avoid being seen while Sola-Ui silently fumed behind him. The wretch is a fugitive and he still thinks more about her than-
"Oho, Lancer!" Master and Servant jumped to see Rider and Berserker X in civilian clothes standing in front of a wine store. The slightly bigger Servant gave a friendly wave while his Master just trailed behind him with an appearance of utter resignation. "Fancy seeing you here!"
Lancer tensed up when he saw the eager grin stretching across the Servant of Madness' face, but then his partner stepped jovially between them. "Now, now, it's unfortunately too early for a good brawl. But seeing as you're here, Lancer, why don't you join us to a banquet later this evening?"
Three-and-a-half sets of eyes blinked at the King of Conquerors before four mouths chorused a dull, "…What?"
-105:27:00
Rin Tohsaka peered into a Shinto alley and felt her face scrunch up in disgust. She glanced down to the magic compass her father had gifted her and breathed in relief; the needle was pointing to the left, away from the trash. Good on two counts, she decided before moving on.
A cold wind swept through the area, drawing a shiver from her, but Rin held her coat more tightly around herself and continued. She wasn't stepping through Fuyuki City at night for fun, after all.
The last few days had been tense. She'd been staying alongside Mother at the Zenjou house, awaiting Father's triumphant return from the Holy Grail War. The Tohsaka heir had begged him to let her help, to let her fight by his side, but he had said no, and her attempt to boost her knowledge about magecraft had… not gone well. So, Rin had grudgingly accepted that she wasn't ready yet to stand by Father's side.
She told herself not to worry. Her father was the greatest magus she knew. He was bound to win this War, Rin believed that with all her heart.
Even if it meant working with that jerk, Kirei.
But then she began getting a bad feeling at her school. Kids were failing to show up, teachers were talking, even some classes were cut short. Though most of the others were delighted with the latter development, Rin grew unsettled. Especially when she overheard a news report from a television about recent kidnappings in and around Fuyuki City. Rin considered herself a clever little lady, but even an idiot would've considered there to be a connection between the report and the Grail War.
And then her best friend Kotone didn't show up for two days.
At first, Rin had tried to keep calm about it; maybe Kotone had just come down with something. She was a meek, friendly girl, after all. But when she tried to call her house and find out if she was okay, no one answered. And that was the final straw for her to collect what gems she'd managed to charge with her mana, purchase a cable car ticket, and head into Fuyuki.
Rin couldn't ask her father to help her with this. The Grail War was an important event, and he represented the Tohsaka name in it, just as she would have to one day. Besides, he had already given her what she'd need to find Kotone as an early birthday gift: a mana compass that pointed to the highest concentration of magic around. But when Rin had checked it upon her arrival to Fuyuki, the needle had begun to spin freely around. So much mana must've been around them to provoke a reaction.
But she noticed that a strange chime emanated whenever the needle spun into a certain point. That's got to mean the mana's seriously strong and recent there. With that in mind, she began to run through the streets and into the darker alleys, wherever the needle sang. The process wasn't easy, of course. More than once, the little girl had to duck out of sight from a passing police car. She knew a curfew was in effect because of the kidnappings, and that she'd be brought to her father if the cops picked her up. That couldn't happen. Not yet.
Suppressing the feelings of cold and trepidation, Rin sprinted from one spot to the next. She continued to watch the fluctuations on the compass, noting how she was getting closer. All of her focus was on the device and her friend. Hang on, Kotone, I'm-
"Look out!"
The shout and a sudden tug on her shoulders brought the Tohsaka heir back to the real world. Someone was pulling her from behind, and she really didn't appreciate that. Rin swung back her arms to dislodge her assailant's grip (patting herself mentally on the back for knowing how to use the word "assailant" in proper context) and turned to face them, mana flowing in her fingers. This has to be the one who kidnapped Kotone and the others, so I'll take him down and make him tell me every-
Her thoughts were interrupted again, this time by a strong rush of wind from behind. She glanced back and then turned around to stare at the big red car that had just barreled past her. It released an angry honk while speeding on. Rin looked down; sure enough, she had been so fixated on the compass she'd nearly stepped onto the open road. One more second and Rin would have been in for a long lecture from Father about minding her surroundings.
After he'd peeled her off the cement and resurrected her.
Inside the red minivan, an obese man with stubble and tired eyes simply turned at the next right without another glance back. He'd just gotten finished with extra work (likely without more pay) and wanted to head home and collapse onto his couch with a beer. Damn curfew, damn Kida saddling me with his damn shift 'cause of his damn kid…
Back at that street… "S-sorry about grabbing you," Rin's "assailant" mumbled behind her. She spun back around to see a boy about her age, fidgeting in a tan winter jacket and small jeans. "Mom told me I'm n-not supposed to grab girls," he was looking away from her, scratching the back of his head, "but that van was heading your way and I thought you hadn't noticed and I-I di-didn't mean-"
"I-it's okay," Rin quickly assured him. "I-I really didn't see where I was going. Was focusing on something important." A slight blush crept onto her cheeks, making her chide herself. Stupid. A Tohsaka does not admit fault because a Tohsaka does not make mistakes. She should've maintained her elegance and asserted that she had the situation under control, that the boy's help was at best appreciated but unnecessary.
But she found she couldn't. One look at the nervous kid and for some reason Rin couldn't find it in her. Instead, she mumbled, "Th-Thank you. Really."
The boy looked surprised, like he hadn't expected thanks. "Y-You're w-w-welcome," he replied with red cheeks of his own. Rin almost giggled; they were brighter in color than his shaggy hair, and she bet it wasn't from the cold. First time talking to a girl, huh? She teased him in her mind. Probably first time helping one too. He's kind of cut-
W-w-w-wait, t-this isn't right! I-I-I j-just met h-h-h-h-him, I don't even know his name! Argh, I'm too you- smart to have a crush, and Kotone would tease me for life-
Oh, no. Rin's eyes widened in alarm as she looked down at her hands. Sure enough, they were empty! She'd lost the mana detector, her only chance of finding Kotone, there wasn't any other way, she didn't know how to perform tracking spells, her friend was going to die-
"S-sorry, but isn't this yours?" The boy was offering her something. Rin didn't know what she'd have answered if she hadn't seen the compass gently cupped in his hands. "This fell near that streetlight when I pulled you away from the road. I think it's busted, the needle-"
The girl snatched it up and inspected it. Yes, thank all her lucky stars, the relic still functioned fully as before, and the signal was close enough! "I-it's fine, not broken at all!" She hurriedly told the boy before moving for a nearby crossing. Fortune was back on her side. Rin quickly called back for etiquette's sake, "Thanks again so much for all the help, I'll repay you some other time!" then took off across the street. Her friend still needed her.
Meanwhile, golden-brown eyes blinked in confusion after the running girl. …Okay, Takumi loves calling me a moron, but I have no clue what that was all about. He scratched the back of his head again, as if the way to understand what that girl had been up to was hidden amidst his hair. Yeah, right. Like Dad always says, no guy can ever hope to understand the thoughts of a girl. He sighed while his cheeks finally cooled down. Hope she's okay, though…
"Shirou, where are you?" A familiar voice from above caught his attention. Right, they were staying with Ren and his family for the night. His best friend was still shaken by his kidnapping, couldn't recall a thing. "Having trouble with that trash bag?" The voice teased. "It wasn't that bigger than you!" There was a trace of worry, though; and even he understood why.
The boy looked up to the window and waved with a laugh. "Coming, Mom!" He called back before quickly sprinting inside. The girl's probably gonna be fine, she looked tough.
A little brown moth fluttered through the night air, its wings dancing amidst the many currents. Normally, it wouldn't be this late out but would've curled up into its home, safe from predators. But not tonight. It had seen something passing through. Something that made it feel… threatened.
And while its regular instincts would've been to find a hiding spot, a friend of a friend had told it that a nice man had asked them all to let him know if they ever felt like that. So, it flapped its wings as swiftly as it could in the search of the one fitting its-
There. Between the big walls made by man. It swooped down.
Kariya paused in his scribbling as something fluttered before the light. He looked up to find Caster X's hand outstretched, a little moth on its fingers. The Servant murmured something gentle to the insect as it beat its wings. Not to fly, though, but in a sort of pattern. Kariya was no expert on insects (despite the multitude of them burrowing through his body), but he understood that the moth was trying to say something.
Something important, judging by how Gandalf's brow furrowed. He whispered something that seemed like a thankyou before letting the moth fly away. Then the wizard reclaimed his hat and staff from their placing before addressing his Master. "I might know where Caster or his Master may be."
"Then let's get moving." Kariya snapped his notebook shut and put it and his pencil away as Berserker appeared in a swirl of black. The Servant of Madness growled like a hungry animal.
"It's not far from here," Caster X explained while leading the way out of the alley, "but perhaps for your sake, you should remain here, Kariya."
He received a negative headshake in return. "If it's close, I can manage. Besides, I'm the Master." Kariya had been receiving a number of dreams lately of heroes leading other heroes into battle. Maybe it was the Crest Worms gnawing at his brain, but those images of tall men with handsome faces inspired him. "The least I can do is stand by your sides in battle."
Now, the Grey Pilgrim appreciated his friend's newfound bravery, but he was still in a precarious position physically. He wanted to object when he felt a tap by his shoulder. "Cr." Both glanced in surprise to see Berserker walking (relatively) calmly to a black Toyota parked outside the alley.
The trio exchanged a look.
-105:19:53
Rin raced through the alley, hopping over bags and cans scattered as she tried to regain sight of her quarry. The compass had been leading her steadily along she noticed a man walking along the street to his right. His left hand was completely covered by that arm's sleeve, but his right one wore a weird bracelet and was clutching that of a little boy around Rin's age. Someone walking around this late with their kid? Rin had thought skeptically. Yeah, right.
The needle singing towards the man and the blank look in the boy's eyes further raised her suspicions. So, she'd quietly set off after them, trying not to be noticed by the man. Something just felt… wrong about him. Especially that smile on his face.
Unfortunately, she knocked over a stack of objects by accident that caused a loud ruckus, forcing her to hide lest he saw her. Rin wasn't spotted, but her hesitance caused her to lose sight of the man and the boy, but the compass still seemed to be picking up a heavy mana signature, keeping her hopes up. He can't have gotten far, pulling that boy with him. They've got to be close.
Rin ducked behind a corner upon seeing a patrol car, holding her breath. Once it slowly passed by without stopping, she relaxed again. I can't be spotted. Not now.The next glance then made her gasp: there the creepy man was again! She ducked back out of sight while he chuckled. "C'mon, now. No lagging." The guy passed her hiding place, allowing her to see that he was now pulling two boys along. The newcomer had glasses and longer hair than the other one, darker shade, too. "Really wish Mister Oni was here to carry these brats…" the man mumbled cheerily as he led them along. Rin thought she heard something wet from him.
Once they'd all passed her, Rin tried to relax again. She failed. "He's gotten more of them…" She cradled her compass with one hand. "Why? And what was that sound?" The situation kept getting scarier. The little magus girl wasn't sure anymore if she could do anything. If she'd ever been sure from the beginning.
Then she remembered the dull glaze of those poor boys' eyes. That nice boy that had helped her a while ago flashed before her eyes, followed by an image of Kotone smiling shyly at her. And then an image of… Sakura.
No. That isn't right. Rin's expression hardened alongside her resolve. She glared at the detector, its needle swinging about after the man. If I just sit here, I can't help any of them at all. And that guy will just take more of them away!The heir of the Tohsaka line jumped to her feet. The needle had settled on pointing straight ahead, so that's where she ran. It's not what can I do, it's what should I do!
Rin passed about five different places with flashing neon signs before she came panting to a stop in front of some stairs leading down to an entrance. The sign above the door was for some bar while the walls by the stairs had papers glued all over, among them advertisements for beer mostly. But most importantly, the needle began to spin counterclockwise. It always slowed a bit when pointing at the steps.
Then the device exuded a sudden flash of mana akin to red lightning, drawing a surprised yelp from her. She took a step back in her shock, panting at what this likely meant: whatever was down there, had a lot of magical power. Definitely more than she did. Rin's mind flashed back to only a little while ago, where she had gone down into her family manor's workshop, determined to learn more about magecraft and aid Father in the War. That memory ended with a very scary book, a lesson from Father, and her receiving the compass she now held. But one part stood out in particular now: her father's warning while holding the device to the book. "Be careful, Rin. Anything that triggers that kind of reaction is beyond your abilities."
The dark-haired girl pushed those thoughts aside to bring forth the images from before, trying to will her feet forward. She had to go down. She had to find Kotone and those boys. She had to-
What's that sound?
Rin's eyes narrowed as she wearily looked about, trying to pinpoint that weird… squelching she could hear. It was like something fleshy against a solid surface. Another chill went down her spine, then her compass flashed again. The needle was shaking, almost like it was trying to point-
Up! Rin raised her head just in time to see something squirming falling towards her. She screeched in fear as the thing landed with a wet splat next to her, tentacles slapping the pavement. Needle-like teeth gnashed together before it launched itself towards the girl. She stumbled and fell on her backside, tears running from her shut eyes. I'm sorry, Kotone!
Flesh sounded against flesh. She awaited her death… But nothing happened. Hesitantly, she peaked open one eye, then the other…
And found herself staring at a guardian angel.
-105:19:53
Tokiomi Tohsaka wasn't sure what he was doing, sitting in his car as it drove past Fuyuki's borders. He should've been at the family manor, considering whether or not to deal with the recently rogue Archer X or concentrate on discerning the true powers of Rider and his entourage. There was so much to do with this blasted Grail War, so much beyond what he had anticipated. The man couldn't even enjoy his afternoon tea, evaluating the situation again and again hounded him so.
And here he was, taking the time to spontaneously head to the Zenjou house. Tokiomi knew checking on his family during the War was a risk, especially with degenerates such as Archer X or that Mage Killer running about. It was precisely why he'd sent them away in the first place. But still he made no move to turn around.
The logical magus side of him rationalized this ridiculous behavior as taking a brief moment to recuperate. Tokiomi would spend some time with Aoi, check up on Rin, thereby revitalizing his resolve so he could return to winning the Holy Grail War. A simple reason, one he could accept were it not for the strange ache in his chest. Perhaps tonight's dinner hadn't agreed with him.
As for the security concerns, he had Lancer X tailing the vehicle from the outside. She would maintain watch from a distance in case any unwelcome guests appeared.
Was keeping her at a distance odd? Not to the Tohsaka Master, not after how their last few interactions had been a mixture of snide barbs and the Servant's repeated assertion she needed to be more proactive. Tokiomi refused to waste a Command Seal on making her keep her mouth shut, he was better than that (and Lancer X had yet to actually disobey him), but neither did he care to tolerate more of her presence than necessary.
It's probably that woman's fault I'm even taking this trip,Tokiomi grumbled to himself as the car drove into the road towards the house. I should've never grown so conversational with a familiar. Talking with her has let me become sentimental, and if I'm not careful, I'll make a mistake that could cost me the War. I have to establish boundaries once this visit is done.
A part of the man lamented his decision; he genuinely respected Lancer X as a Heroic Spirit, and her memories he'd glimpsed in his dreams had been fascinating from a magical viewpoint. Edenia prior to Outworld's invasion (the image of that tyrannical beast Shao Kahn still sent a chill through him, no less because he inadvertently though of Rider X) had appeared to be every bit as wonderful as the warrior had described. And the feats he'd seen of Ja-Lancer X and her childhood friend, the princess Kitana, gave him new ideas for magecraft.
He shook his head. Regardless, Lancer X was a Servant. Moreover, she was Tokiomi Tohsaka's Servant, a vital key to finally achieving the ultimate goal of his family: reaching Akasha. He couldn't allow himself the luxury of sentiment when the time came for her sacrifice.
The Zenjou house came into view, and Tokiomi breathed slowly as a calm smile settled into place. As the car came to a stop, he smoothed his jacket. Always elegant. He opened the door and stepped out, cane in hand. Lancer X was off surveying the neighborhood. As instructed.
The father was imagining the look on Rin's face at seeing him when he saw his wife practically burst out of the house, car keys in hand. She froze upon him, the massive worry on her features slightly giving way to shock. "…Tokiomi?"
"Aoi," the magus greeted her while walking over, "apologies for the abrupt visit. I should've let you know I was coming." His eyebrows furrowed a bit, the most he'd allow to show his confusion. "…A bit late to be driving out. Is everything alright?"
Aoi trembled, panic flashing in her eyes. "I-it's…" she stuttered, fingering her keys. Tokiomi made to step closer when she managed, "It's Rin."
That name stopped him cold. "What…? Is something the matter with her, has she come down with something?" He asked her quickly. If it was a cold or the like, he could easily cook up a remedy for her. He tried not to think of the alternative.
But a panicked shake of her head dashed those hopes. "N-no, she's gone." She explained hurriedly the day's events. "She came home from school, but there was something bothering her… she kept talking about a friend of hers, Kotone, who had been absent… I told her not to worry, but-" Aoi's words hitched as he started rubbing her arms. Her whole body was shivering. "She's not inside, I-I think she's headed into Fuyuki."
Tokiomi felt stiff as a statue. His brain processed the information and compared it to other pieces already sorted away. Caster, child abductions, absent friend, Rin missing…
"Even if one of them were your daughter?"
His grip tightened around his cane despite his attempts to remain calm. Aoi was moving jerkily to the garage. "You don't know where to look…" Tokiomi got out, rooted by the spot he was.
"Rin can't move that far on foot." She sent him back a look filled with panicked determination. "I have to find her, Tokiomi," she breathed, "I-I have to try…" Her eyes said what her mouth wouldn't: I can't give up another daughter.
A lesser man would be scrambling right alongside his wife, desperately trying to find their little girl. A Tohsaka had to maintain his posture, keep a dignified appearance while coolly determining the solution.
Staring into Aoi's eyes, Tokiomi was wishing he were a lesser man until he remembered one privilege of his situation. He looked down at his hands; yes, his Command Seals were still there. And even if he doubted Archer would ever deign to aid him in rescuing his daughter, he still had one move he could make. Tokiomi lifted his head and said in a loud tone, "Lancer X."
The emerald-clad Servant shimmered into existence next to him, her initial cool stare shifting into concern when she saw their expressions. "What happened?"
"Our daughter has gone missing." Aoi replied where she stood by the half-open garage door. She'd known there was little chance the car could get into Fuyuki and find Rin in time, but it had been the Servant's appearance that stopped her. There was no time to waste. Not with what they could all imagine.
And Lancer X needed only one look at Tokiomi's outstretched left hand to know what came next. "Lancer X, by the power of my Command Seal," the father intoned as the yin-yang symbol on his hand glowed crimson, "go to Rin and bring her back safely."
He received only two words in reply before the Heroic Spirit was gone. "Yes, Master."
-105:18:56
Lancer X felt ripples of mana surround her, the possibility of infinity for a single moment. The power of a Command Seal. Then the energy enveloped her. One second, she was in an open neighborhood, standing before Tokiomi and the woman she discerned to be his wife. The next, she was inside a dark alley, and something grotesque was jumping at her.
That would not do.
She ducked, her left hand batting away the tentacle reaching for her head, and lashed out with her right leg. Her heel tore through demonic flesh while the force of her kick sent it screeching across the alley. It crashed into the ground with a splash of blood.
Lancer X spun into a crouch in the opposite direction and found herself facing the wide turquoise eyes of a little girl with long dark hair fashioned into twin tails down the sides of her head. "Rin Tohsaka?" She inquired gently. The girl nodded once, her expression trapped between fear and utter awe. Lancer X held up a finger. "One second, please." She then stood and turned back to see the disgusting thing slither closer to them. Her eyes narrowed at the bloody slash it had suffered from her heel. It was visibly closing up the longer she looked. Assassin wasn't exaggerating the regenerative capabilities these things possess. Regular attacks may not suffice to kill them.