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Celestial Grand Order

Prologue

With a silent flash of blue light, I found myself staring at a strange book that had suddenly appeared in my room. Its cover was a soft azure blue—or so I thought. It seemed to shift slightly, though it mostly kept to a gentle hue. On its cover was a symbol I couldn't ignore: the mark of Chaldea from Fate/Grand Order.

I couldn't resist the pull. Even if I'd wanted to, it was impossible to ignore the compulsion to reach out. My fingers brushed the cover, and strange text materialized before my eyes. A sound accompanied it, an annoying chiming that grew louder in my head, like opening a chest only to find a useless beacon. The noise drowned out my thoughts until nothing else existed.

Then, the text began to change, and with it came a surge of knowledge—alien yet oddly familiar—pouring into my mind.

"Ideal traits synchronized for the First Jump. Rolling due to compatibility from prior sources. Two special traits added to mitigate increased risk of death. Wielder of the Grimoire will experience delayed point generation for future acquisitions."

The text detailed several traits now embedded in my very being:

Spoiler: [Magic Circuits x2]Spoiler: [A Different Age]Spoiler: [Magic Crest]Spoiler: [Language Lessons]Spoiler: [Always Learning]Spoiler: [Unleashed Will]Spoiler: [Let's Go Hero]I blinked as knowledge rushed in, overwhelming yet coherent. Each trait burned itself into my awareness, and their effects unfurled like instinct: circuits enabling magecraft, a crest inherited from some forgotten lineage, and abilities designed to adapt, grow, and persist. My head spun, but I stood firm, my will newly unshackled.

The book flipped its pages until another blue flash enveloped me. Suddenly, I was no longer in my room. I stood on a bridge overlooking a river, the city split in two by the dark, glimmering water below. The glow of the bridge's suspension lights was faint, and judging by the position of the moon, it was somewhere around 10:30 at night.

Two choices presented themselves in my mind. First: [A Different Age], a power that shaped me into a figure befitting a heroic era. My body shifted, reshaping itself to match the image I desired. My hair grew longer and thicker, taking on a style reminiscent of a figure I admired. My posture straightened, and I felt a strength that hadn't existed before. The flickering lights cast my new reflection in the water below, and for a moment, I stared at someone almost unrecognizable.

Then came the second choice: [Magic Crest]. Magecraft would be necessary, and I had three potential paths to choose from:

[Gradation Air]: The first step toward Shiro's style of Projection Magecraft, though it required a fractured psyche bordering on psychopathy to recreate weapons effectively.[Runes]: My favorite, thanks to a certain Irish witch and a legendary hound. However, the prep time—and the intricacies of some runes, like carving the Resurrection Rune onto one's heart—posed significant challenges.[Spatial Displacement]: A practical form of teleportation, albeit imperfect, but it required minimal effort compared to the others.The choice was clear. I selected [Spatial Displacement], and the world seemed to shift again. Memories flowed into me, not my own but those of another life.

"My name is Arkiel Ainsworth," I heard myself think, "and I stand here on the eve of the Fifth Holy Grail War, directed here by my ancestor to claim victory and open Pandora's Pithos."

The weight of those words settled over me. My Circuits, high among the noble families of the Clocktower, matched even the three great houses in magical prowess. Yet, that didn't stop my body from moving on its own, instinct carrying me toward the city.

I paused as realization struck. This wasn't just Fuyuki City—it was the Singularity F, I needed power that even with a mystical book laying dormant I needed more to survive. The Fourth Holy Grail War had left behind a few Noble Phantasms, which now rested at the bottom of the river I stood above. I glanced down at the water, cold and fast-moving, an old fear of heights clawing at the edges of my mind.

I leaped.

The icy depths swallowed me, the current pulling hard, but my newfound instincts took over. My magical senses honed in on three distinct presences: an axe, a scythe, and a scimitar. Each radiated power, their energy vibrating in my ears.

Emerging on the riverbank moments later, I examined my haul:

An axe capable of smashing space, used by Gilgamesh in another form.A scythe that severed magical energy, ignoring physical resistance.A scimitar that froze everything it touched, akin to Sul-Sagana but less apocalyptic.These were treasures of the King of Heroes, and their significance wasn't lost on me. Using a spell from the Ainsworth Crest, I expanded the space inside my bag to carry the weapons discreetly, though their nature couldn't be fully concealed from those with magical senses.

I climbed back to the bridge, soaked but alive, a grin spreading across my face. I'd jumped nearly a thousand feet and walked away without a scratch. With that, I headed for my hotel to freshen up and prepare. Tomorrow, I would summon my Servant. Noon, the opposite of the witching hour, was when my powers would be at their peak.

Arkiel Ainsworth, the newest master of the Holy Grail War, was ready to begin his journey.

Spoiler: Arkiel 'Ainsworth' Character Sheet

"Oops, I guess this time I've materialized as a Caster? Sorry, Master, it would've been much better if you summoned me with my spear." The blue-haired druidic Caster—Cu Chulainn—spoke, his voice calm but tinged with amusement. His golden eyes locked onto me, and he let out a groan. "Why couldn't you have summoned me as a Lancer? Your support as a Master is top-notch. I swear my luck is good this time around."

I glanced at him, my thoughts swirling, before a series of chimes caught my attention.

"Achievement Unlocked: Summon a Servant & Become a Master."

"Achievement Unlocked: Get In the Plot."

"Achievement Unlocked: Summon a Divine Spirit."

A prompt followed: "Calculating… Please check Achievements to collect your rewards."

"Uh… hello there," I said, still processing the sudden notifications. "I'm sorry, I'm not entirely sure who I'm speaking with. You're a Caster, right?" My voice wavered slightly as I took in his appearance, already curious about his status.

The details materialized in my mind:

Spoiler: Cu Caster (Odin) Status Page.

I blinked. 'It seems my foreknowledge—combined with some form of clairvoyance—lets me see deeper into a Servant's profile than usual,' I thought. My thoughts raced ahead, piecing together fragments of familiarity. 'This disrupts the usual FGO timeline. Where's Medea? Cu was supposed to be summoned as a Lancer—at least originally. This feels like Odin stepping in again, like in Fate/Grand Order GO. I'm missing too many pieces.'

Cu smiled faintly. "It's no problem, Master. The name's Cu Chulainn, Ireland's Child of Light. Looks like I'm working as a druid this time. So, what's the plan for today? I can feel a good number of leylines running through this area." His tone held curiosity, but his restless energy betrayed a desire for action.

I nodded, pulling my gear together. "I wasn't expecting to summon a Caster. I'd heard rumors that Caster was already summoned by a magus from the Clock Tower. I think it's best we head somewhere we can link into the leylines, power you up, and set up defensive locations." My mind raced again, piecing together possibilities. 'Am I in the Animusphere's Grail War? Or are the ripples I'm causing throwing things off? Could this still be Singularity F?'

I weighed the options before turning to him. "Hey, Caster. If you want to explore a bit, I've got some clothes that should fit you. They might be a little tight, but they'll do the job. You can go out and get a lay of the land."

He grinned, vanishing from sight almost immediately. I blinked, realizing he'd taken the clothes—and my wallet—with him.

(Cu Chulainn)

Moving swiftly through the streets, I adjusted the outfit I'd taken from my Master. The shirt was a bit too formal for my liking, a button up left open and the gray slacks fit snugly but comfortably enough. The shoes, however, pinched at my feet.

'If I didn't know any better, I'd think he was on guard against me,' I mused, chuckling softly. 'He seemed surprised, almost like he'd seen me before. But no… in all my lives, I've never met him. Still, there's something familiar about him, like a lingering echo of another summoning in another time.'

The district buzzed with life as I wandered through its streets. Using my Master's wallet, I picked out a few outfits more to my liking. Modern clothes weren't so bad once you got used to them—perhaps a fragment of the foreign part of my core at work.

As I continued, I found my grin widening. Tonight, I felt a flicker of hope. Maybe this time, my luck would hold. But even as optimism crept in, unease tugged at me. My Master… no magus of this era could survive the storm that was brewing. It was a shame, but perhaps he could serve as a guide for those who followed, making their path less treacherous.

I stopped in my tracks, my ravens offering glimpses of the city through their eyes. In the marketplace, I spotted a brown-haired girl with twin tails, a Servant trailing her in spirit form. Elsewhere, one of my familiars spotted a purple-haired maiden walking alone. A Master—without a Servant, as far as I could tell.

Finally, another raven glimpsed something… unsettling. A small homunculus accompanied by an enormous Heroic Spirit—a presence so overwhelming it would take all my strength to face it alone.

I crossed my arms, pondering. 'The Master clad in red. The abandoned mistress. The young, fragile homunculus. Or… I could let events unfold as they will.' I smirked to myself. 'Maybe I'll leave the choice to my Master. Let's see how sharp he really is.'

(Arkiel)

Cu's voice crackled through the mental link. The options he offered painted a clearer picture of the battlefield ahead. Each figure he described matched fragments of knowledge I already had. If this really was the Grail War I thought it was, any of these encounters could reshape the flames of the coming conflict.

The question wasn't just who to approach—but whether I had the strength to intervene. Still, I couldn't help but imagine how much easier life would be if I could sway Illya and Heracles to my side.

I closed my eyes, weighing my options carefully.

(Author's Notes)

I hope this reads better for those who have offered some suggestions I hope this reads a tad better.Last edited: Dec 6, 2024 Like ReplyReport Reactions:Noneh, Will h, Maralis and 640 othersArkeus012Dec 6, 2024Add bookmarkView discussionThreadmarks Knight of Heaven's Feel Chapter 1 View contentArkeus012Not too sore, are you?Dec 10, 2024Add bookmark#28Celestial Grand OrderChapter 1"I think the safest move for now is to establish our footing before jumping into the lion's den," I said, meeting Cu's gaze. "But we can't stay passive for long. Each of these options carries both potential allies and threats, and waiting too long might close some doors permanently."

Cu leaned against the windowsill, crossing his arms as he nodded. "Smart. But you're gonna need to pick a direction soon, Master. Sitting on the sidelines only works if no one's aiming for your head and trust me, someone always is."

I sighed again, knowing he was right. The Grail War wasn't a game where I could afford indecision. "We'll start with reconnaissance. Let's gather more information on Rin and Sakura. Both are in critical positions right now—Rin's competence and strength make her a valuable ally, and Sakura's vulnerability could leave her exposed to being exploited."

"And the Einzbern kid?" Cu asked, cocking an eyebrow.

"Illya…" I hesitated. "She's too dangerous to approach without a solid plan. If we misstep with her, Herakles alone could wipe us off the map. For now, we watch from afar."

Cu grinned, clearly enjoying the prospect of lurking and observing. "Alright, Master, we'll do it your way for now. But if the time comes to fight, don't hesitate to let me off the leash."

"I won't." My voice was firm, though I felt the weight of the decision pressing down on me. "For now, let's head to the leyline you mentioned earlier. We need to fortify our position before anything else. If someone decides to come for us, I'd rather we're prepared."

Cu pushed off the windowsill, his demeanor as lighthearted as ever despite the tension in the air. "Sounds like a plan. You lead, Master. I'll handle the heavy lifting."

(Cu Chulainn - POV)

As we made our way through the streets, I kept my senses sharp, letting my druidic instincts guide me. The city felt alive beneath my feet, the leylines humming with energy just waiting to be tapped into. I glanced at my Master. He was different calm, deliberate, decisive and oddly knowledgeable about his competition for someone caught in a war like this. Something about him didn't sit quite right, but I couldn't put my finger on it.

He wasn't like the usual magi I'd been summoned for. No pompous ego, no blind reliance on rituals or family crests, he was listening to my advice yet wasn't just letting me dictate the war. He moved like someone who knew exactly what they were doing, even if the occasional flicker of doubt crossed his face, he didn't let it affect his stride what so ever. It made me curious. Maybe this War wouldn't be as boring as I thought.

"Master, you've been quiet," I said, breaking the silence. "You've got a plan brewing in that head of yours, don't you?"

He smirked faintly, not breaking stride. "You could say that. But plans only go so far in a Grail War. The key is adaptability."

"Hah! Spoken like someone who's been through this before," I quipped, watching for any reaction.

He chuckled softly but didn't confirm or deny it. "Let's just say I know the rules of the game."

That only made me more curious. Whatever his deal was, it felt like I was playing a role in a story that had already been written. But if fate thought it could control me, it had another thing coming.

(Arkiel - POV)We arrived at the leyline just as the moon reached its zenith. The area was secluded, an abandoned park with remnants of old magic faintly glowing in the soil. Cu began his work immediately, tracing symbols into the ground and channeling the energy into protective wards.

As I watched him work, my thoughts drifted back to the choices ahead. The Grail War wasn't just about survival; it was about shaping the future. Each decision would ripple outward, influencing not only my fate but the fate of everyone involved. And with the anomalies were going to pili up. Cu being a Caster, Bazzet not summoning Lancer, No Medea which means no Sasaki, which means Zouken would have Assassin most likely.

"Done," Cu said, standing and dusting his hands. The air around us felt heavier, charged with magic. "This spot's as fortified as it's gonna get. If anyone comes knocking, they'll regret it."

"Good," I said, nodding. "We'll rest here for the night. Tomorrow, we start moving."

"Where to first?" Cu asked, his grin returning. "The Master in Red, the Abandoned Mistress, Tiny Terror, or waiting for someone to knock down our door?"

I hesitated for a moment before answering. "Red would have to be it. If anyone is going to listen she's the only one I can guarantee doesn't go for our necks immediately."

Cu chuckled. "Fair enough. Let's hope she doesn't shoot us on sight but I'm curious why her and not the lonesome Master?"

I sighed as he asked the question "Simple, if I understand her and her family well they might have 2 servants in a worst case scenario along with I doubt there's a therapist qualified enough for her."

I couldn't pick Sakura simply because she was too dangerous, a great pick if I had the tools to fix all of her problems the issue is my greatest asset in the form of Caster was useless if Sakura's fragile Mental state cracked. Her Heaven's Feel self and FGO at the same time would be way to much for myself, besides just cause I don't have the powers yet doesn't mean I won't whenever this grimoire of mine starts up again.

As we settled in for the night, I couldn't help but wonder how long this would last, could I even bring anyone besides myself through the Singularity, I know I could with my [Unleashed Will] & [Spatial Displacement] especially in combination.

It was later in the eve after Cu went out to patrol the neighborhood I finally checked my achievements.

Spoiler: "Achievement Unlocked: Summon a Servant & Become a Master."

Spoiler: "Achievement Unlocked: Get In the Plot."

Spoiler: "Achievement Unlocked: Summon a Divine Spirit."

In a brief moment I could feel something shift as I grinned as I felt something once again awaken and it was like waking up from a pleasant dream.

Celestial Grimoire status active again, updating... Update Complete Adding 200CP achieved for when Grimoire was asleep

Rolling +100 points (800)

Spoiler: Ki Blast In The Dark ~Dragon Ball Super (Illusion) 600 points

Purchase Ki Blast In The Dark?

This was, without a doubt, one of the strongest stealth powers I could have picked up. However, I had a few concerns that made me hesitate before committing to it.

First, purchasing this power would consume almost all my points until I managed to earn more. Second, while it's fantastic for me, it's not particularly helpful in a team-based scenario. From my understanding, no one not even my allies would be able to detect my attacks. That could lead to friendly fire; for example, if I threw a fireball, an ally might unknowingly dodge into it.

Lastly, in a setting like Fate, it wouldn't be unusual for enemies to have secondary means of avoiding attacks, such as precognition or heightened instincts, which might counter this ability. Moreover, I wasn't sure if my allies would gain much from this power, given its focus on personal stealth rather than collective synergy.

That said, there were some significant advantages to consider:

Unparalleled Stealth and Ambush Potential

This power would let me strike without warning, catching opponents completely off-guard. In one-on-one situations it's perfect.Negating Foes' Detection Skills

Many foes rely heavily on supernatural methods and their unique clairvoyance's to locate and counter their enemies. With this ability, all those systems become useless against me. It levels the playing field against foes who would normally hold an advantage borderline on being an absolute.Flexibility Across Different Situations

The power wasn't just limited to direct combat. I could use it to charge energy attacks for long-range sniping/assassination or to infiltrate areas undetected. In situations requiring subterfuge, this ability would make me incredibly difficult to track or predict.Pairing with Personal Strengths

If I focused on a solo, guerrilla-style fighting approach, this would synergize perfectly with my playstyle. I wouldn't have to worry about teammates detecting my moves if I fought alone or operated as a lone wolf.In the end, the decision came down to priorities. Did I want to invest in a versatile stealth power now, knowing its strengths and limitations, or save my points for something more universally beneficial later?

Ultimately I decided I would purchase this power, there was no guarantee my book would ever show this power up again along with this would be a key edge to operating in Singularities.

Purchase Ki Blast In The Dark for 600 points? Purchased Points remaining 200.

With my purchase I felt a sense of peace as I drift off into rest in the makeshift grove that Caster set up.

(Cu)As I investigated the high school, my senses caught something peculiar. Some fool had carelessly set up obvious bounded fields in the area. However, before I could focus on that, I felt a strange absence a void where my master's magical energy should have been. Worry took hold as I stumbled, glancing instinctively in the direction of the disturbance. I stopped in my tracks when I sensed two more presences nearby. Reacting swiftly, I activated several of my runestones, carving out my territory in an instant. A moment later, I felt the rapid approach of not one but two figures. It seemed I was destined to encounter the Master in Red tonight.

Taking a deep breath, I stood atop the roof of the building, allowing my astral form to materialize into a physical body. Smiling, I greeted my unexpected audience. "Well, well, a young master and her servant. I must say, I'm intrigued," I began, my voice carrying across the rooftop. "Lady, I've heard quite a bit about you from my master. He even mentioned it would be a shame to kill you something about your fine legs." I chuckled, recalling the odd conversation I started with my master regarding his peculiar preferences in this war, though he mentioned he preferred redheads or blonds, truly my master was a celt.

Below me stood the Second Owner of this city, Rin Tohsaka, accompanied by her servant. His attire and the unmistakable magical presence suggested a Knight-class servant. When he summoned a gleaming white blade into his hand, my suspicions felt confirmed he was a Saber. "You can call me Caster," I introduced myself, tilting my head slightly. "And you, I take it, are Saber?" Oddly, his expression shifted to one of surprise, his brows furrowing at my introduction. Curious reaction.

(Archer – Emiya)After escorting Rin to Homurahara High, I stepped in front of her, tracing Bakuya as I readied myself for battle. My eyes narrowed as I took in the sight before me: Cú Chulainn, draped in robes. Something felt... off. His declaration of being summoned as a Caster only deepened my unease.

'This isn't right,' I thought, gripping my blade tightly. 'He should be a Lancer. Why is he summoned as a Caster? Something is wrong.' A faint pull stirred within me, a subtle echo tugging at my thoughts something connected to my summoning.

Cú Chulainn grinned, raising a large wooden staff that materialized in his hand. Instinctively, I analyzed it. Despite its ornate appearance, the staff was a simple druidic focus, carved long ago by the hermit whose dogs Cú had slain. The hermit had gifted it to the young hero as thanks for his later services. It had served as Cú's focus for learning runes under his mentor, though it was rarely used after he began his martial training.

"So," I said, taking a defensive stance, "a Caster bold enough to challenge a Knight-class servant. If you're so eager to die, Caster, I will oblige." Reinforcing my body subtly, I pushed forward, sword at the ready.

As I rushed him, I couldn't help but notice his speed. He moved with the same agility as when he was a Lancer no, perhaps even quicker. A faint glow emanated from a rune on his outfit, the source of his sudden burst of speed. My brow furrowed as I approached.

I feinted a slash toward his throat, redirecting the attack toward his core to force him into a defensive position and keep his hands occupied. I couldn't allow him the opportunity to toss one of his rune stones he would have no trouble setting me aflame if I let him. I heard Rin mutter a few things through our link but I had to focus least Caster capitalize on my distractions I wasn't used to fighting him just yet.

Despite my efforts, his movements remained sharp, and he managed to parry my strikes. Our clash sent tremors through the rooftop, breaking tiles as we exchanged blow after blow. A troubling realization began to set in. Even with my reinforcements, I only matched him in strength a feat unheard of for a Caster. His parameters were far beyond what they should be. My mind raced. Was his master a first-rate Magus? Perhaps that Enforcer who summoned him originally?

'Master,' I said through our link, 'check his parameters. Something's not right with this Caster.'

I didn't have to wait long for Rin's response. Her sharp intake of breath echoed through our connection, and her thoughts followed swiftly. 'Archer, this Caster's stats aside from Strength are all B-rank or higher. Even his Strength is a full rank above yours at C. How is this possible? How can a Caster be so strong? Who the hell is he Merlin or something?!'

Her words confirmed my suspicions, but they brought no comfort. This was going to be far more difficult than I had anticipated also since when did Cu have Good Luck.

(Rin)Standing behind Archer, I couldn't help but grit my teeth as I observed the figure standing atop the rooftop. This beastial man summoned as a Caster. It was almost comical, if not for the sheer absurdity of it. His declaration and mocking tone only added to the tension.

"Fine legs?" I muttered under my breath, barely resisting the urge to fire a Gandr shot at him myself. He was grinning like this was some kind of twisted game, but I could feel the sheer weight of his magical energy even from here. This wasn't the Caster we had studied in theory the frail, bookish figure who relied on magecraft and avoided direct combat. This Caster was different. Deadly.

As Archer engaged him, I focused on reinforcing my link, trying to keep tabs on both my Servant and the battlefield. Their first clash was so sudden that I nearly missed it Archer's blade moved like flashes of light, meeting Caster's staff in a shower of sparks. The roof trembled beneath their strikes, tiles cracking and splintering as if the building itself was recoiling from their power.

But something was wrong.

'Archer,' I called out mentally, panic creeping into my voice, 'he's keeping up with you no, he's matching your speed!'

No, I realized as I focused. He's faster. The rune glowing faintly on Caster's robe seemed to pulse with every movement, augmenting his agility and keeping him one no three steps ahead of Archer's relentless attacks.

They moved like blurs, a chaotic dance of blade and staff. Caster wasn't just on the defensive he countered with precision, forcing Archer to pivot and adjust mid-strike. I could tell my Servant was frustrated; every time he tried to exploit an opening, Caster would twist his staff or throw in a quick rune, forcing Archer back into the fray.

And then the inevitable happened. The roof gave way.

A section of the building collapsed beneath their feet, sending debris tumbling to the ground. Archer leaped back, landing gracefully on the edge, while Caster effortlessly flipped down to the sports field below.

'Rin,' Archer said through our link, his voice calm but firm, 'stay back. This is going to get worse.'

I ran to the edge, looking down at the field. The moonlight cast long shadows over the grass, and I could see the glowing runes Caster had placed in the air, forming a circle around himself. He wasn't just fighting he was establishing dominance, turning the battlefield into his territory.

Archer leapt down, two blades in hand. He didn't waste time with words this time, rushing forward with reinforced speed, his blades weaving in and out as he struck at Caster's defenses. But Caster was grinning.

"You're quick, Saber, but several of my friends where much more talented swordsmen," Caster taunted, his staff moving like a third limb to deflect Archer's strikes. "But you're not quick enough."

Suddenly, the air shimmered. One of Caster's runes flared, releasing a burst of flame that forced Archer to dodge to the side. Another rune activated, sending jagged shards of ice hurtling toward him. Archer parried some with his swords, but others grazed his reinforced body, leaving shallow cuts that began to bleed.

"Damn it!" I hissed, my hands trembling as I prepared a spell of my own. I needed to help but before I could act, Archer's voice cut through our link.

'Don't interfere, Rin. Focus on maintaining our connection!'

I bit my lip, cursing under my breath. He was right. Intervening now would only slow him down.

Their battle moved across the field like a storm Archer closing in with unrelenting sword strikes, Caster countering with bursts of elemental magic and clever staff work. Each clash sent shockwaves rippling through the ground, leaving scorch marks, frozen patches, and gouged earth in their wake.

I could feel Archer's frustration mounting. Even with his reinforcements, he was only barely holding his own. And Caster wasn't even breaking a sweat.

But then, everything shifted.

"Archer, behind you!" I screamed through our link as Caster flung a handful of glowing stones into the air. Runes activated mid-flight, creating a barrage of explosive force that struck Archer square in the back. He was sent flying, crashing into the goalpost on the far end of the field.

For a moment, my heart stopped. Archer groaned, pushing himself up with one arm, his blades still clutched tightly in his hands both showing cracks. But before he could regain his footing, Caster was already moving, closing the distance with unnerving speed.

And that's when I heard it.

"Stop!"

The voice cut through the chaos, sharp and clear. I turned, my eyes widening in disbelief.

Shirou Emiya stood at the edge of the field, his expression one of equal parts confusion and determination.

"What the hell is he doing here?" I muttered, my heart sinking.

Caster paused mid-step, his grin widening as he turned to face Shirou. "Well, this is unexpected," he said, his tone dripping with amusement. "Another player enters the stage. Tell me, kid, are you here to fight, or are you just lost?"

"Shirou, get out of here!" I shouted, but he didn't move.

"I won't let you hurt anyone," Shirou said, his voice steady despite the obvious fear in his eyes.

Caster's laughter echoed across the field. "Oh, this is going to be fun."

(Cu)I grinned as the young man stepped into the open, his stance awkward but his eyes burning with something raw. He wasn't radiating any magical energy not the kind you'd expect from a Magus in this war but there was a defiance in his gaze that made me pause for half a second.

"Another one, huh?" I muttered under my breath, spinning my staff lazily as I turned away from the battered Saber?. The Servant wasn't out of the fight, but he'd need a moment to recover. That was fine. I had time. This newcomer… he was interesting.

"You've got guts, kid," I said, tilting my head as I walked toward him, boots crunching against the scorched and frostbitten grass. "But guts don't mean much when you're walking into a battlefield unarmed."

I half-expected him to back down, maybe stammer out an excuse and run for his life. Instead, he squared his shoulders and stood his ground. Brave. Or stupid. It was hard to tell.

"I won't let you hurt anyone else," he said, his voice steady.

I couldn't help but laugh. Not a mocking laugh, but a genuine one. "Hurt anyone else? Kid, you're a little out of your depth, don't you think? You're talking to a Servant in a Holy Grail War. If you don't even know what that means, you should probably go home and let the adults handle this."

His fists clenched, but he didn't move. That defiance in his eyes? It hadn't wavered though confusion was there.

I tapped the ground with my staff, letting a faint hum of magical energy ripple outward. The runes I'd set up earlier flickered to life, casting a faint glow around the field. "I don't know who you are or what you think you're doing, but this isn't a place for ordinary people. Go home."

Still, he didn't move.

I sighed, raising my staff slightly. "Alright, then. Let's see if you're just stubborn, or if there's something more to you."

With a quick flick of my wrist, I activated a rune. A gust of wind surged toward him not enough to kill, just enough to knock him off his feet and send him running. It was almost too easy.

But then he did something that made me stop cold.

He didn't dodge. He didn't even flinch. Instead, he raised his hand as if on instinct, and a faint shimmer of magical energy flickered in front of him as he held up a simple wrench as I watched him reinforce it. The wind slammed into it and dissipated, leaving him standing there, unharmed but visibly shaken as his eyes widened but he stood there.

"What the…" I muttered, narrowing my eyes. That wasn't just raw determination; that was guts. Sloppy, unrefined, but undeniably there.

"Interesting," I said, a grin creeping back onto my face. "Looks like you're not just some ordinary bystander after all. Care to explain, kid? Or do you even know what you just did?"

He didn't answer, his jaw set and his gaze locked on me. I could see the gears turning in his head he wasn't entirely sure what had just happened either.

Behind me, I heard the faint sound of movement. Archer was back on his feet. I could feel his glare boring into me, his twin swords glowing faintly as he prepared for another round.

"Ah, I see," I said, glancing between the two of them. "You're connected to the knight, aren't you? A Master in hiding, maybe? Or just someone who stumbled into the wrong warzone and got lucky?"

I twirled my staff and shifted my stance, ready for whatever came next. "Doesn't matter. Either way, you've caught my attention, kid. Let's see if you can keep it."

As I prepared to strike, something in the air shifted. It wasn't magic at least, not the kind I was used to. It was… different. Subtle but heavy, like a thread pulling at the edges of fate.

The kid took a hesitant step forward, and for a split second, I thought I saw something in his eyes. Something familiar.

"Who are you?" I asked, my voice dropping to a low growl.

But he didn't answer. He simply stood there, a figure caught between fear and resolve, as if he didn't know whether to fight, flee, or fall apart.

Behind him, the girl Tohsaka called out, her voice sharp with desperation. "Shirou, get out of here! You're going to get yourself killed!"

"Shirou," I repeated, tasting the name on my tongue. No family crest, no refined magecraft, no Servant… but somehow, this boy had survived a direct hit from my rune and was still standing.

I grinned again, the anticipation building in my chest. "Alright, Shirou. Let's see what you're really made of."

(General)

Cu's grin widened as Shirou's reinforced wrench clanged uselessly against the shaft of his staff. The boy had guts, sure, but guts didn't win battles. Especially not against a Servant.

Shirou barely managed to sidestep a horizontal swing from Cu, the aftershock whipping his hair and throwing him off balance. He gritted his teeth, staggering back but staying upright. His movements were frantic, raw, untrained nothing like the smooth precision of a true mage, let alone a warrior.

"Come on, kid!" Cu taunted, his staff spinning with a blur of motion. The energy within the runes crackled, sending jolts of light across the field. "Is this really all you've got? You're just making it easy for me!"

Shirou lunged forward, his reinforced legs giving him a burst of speed. He swung the socket wrench with both hands, aiming for Cu's ribs. But Cu, ever the warrior, sidestepped effortlessly and slammed the butt of his staff into Shirou's side. The blow sent the boy sprawling onto the scorched grass, the wrench clattering from his hand.

"Shirou!" Rin's voice rang out, sharp with panic. She was at the edge of the battlefield, struggling to keep herself out of the fray while watching for an opening to intervene.

Shirou pushed himself up, coughing, one arm wrapped around his ribs. "I… I'm not giving up," he muttered, barely audible, but loud enough for Cu to hear.

Cu tilted his head, his grin fading slightly. There was something maddeningly stubborn about this kid. Even now, he wasn't running.

"Impressive," Cu admitted, his voice carrying a rare hint of respect. "But impressive doesn't mean anything if you can't win." He raised his staff again, runes flaring to life along its length.

Before Cu could bring it down, a flash of steel streaked toward him. Archer was back in the fight, twin blades aimed at Cu's flank.

"Persistent as always," Cu muttered, twisting to parry the strike. Archer's swords clashed against the staff, sparks flying as the two Servants exchanged rapid blows.

"Keep your focus on me," Archer growled, his tone cold and deliberate. His movements were calculated, his strikes precise, but Cu wasn't fooled.

"You're trying too hard," Cu said, deflecting a downward slash with ease. His grin returned, sharp and mocking. "What's the matter, Saber? Don't want the kid to get in your way?"

Archer's eyes flicked toward Shirou for the briefest moment too brief for anyone else to notice, but Cu saw it. He didn't have time to dwell on it, though. Archer's onslaught intensified, forcing Cu to shift his stance and go on the defensive.

Meanwhile, Shirou scrambled to his feet, clutching the wrench again despite his trembling hands. Rin darted toward him, her voice urgent. "Shirou, you need to fall back! You're not ready for this!"

"I can't," Shirou replied, his voice strained but resolute. "I can't let you fight this alone."

Rin's frustration was palpable, but before she could argue, Cu's voice cut through the chaos.

"Alright, I've had my fun," Cu said, his staff spinning to knock Archer off balance. The knight stumbled back, his twin blades crossing to block Cu's follow-up strike. "But let's see what happens when the boy really breaks."

Cu flicked his wrist, activating the runes scattered across the field. Pillars of energy erupted around Shirou and Rin, forcing them apart. Shirou stumbled forward, closer to Cu, while Rin was forced back, separated by a glowing barrier.

"Shirou!" Rin shouted, slamming her hands against the barrier.

Shirou turned toward her, panic flashing across his face. But before he could react, Cu was already in front of him, the tip of his staff crackling with energy.

"Let's end this," Cu said, thrusting the staff forward.

Shirou raised the wrench instinctively, reinforced energy surging through his arms. The wrench caught the staff, but the force of the blow sent him reeling. He hit the ground hard, the wrench slipping from his grip once more.

Archer moved to intervene, his swords glowing as he unleashed a flurry of strikes at Cu. But Cu, ever the seasoned fighter, deflected the attacks with minimal effort. Archer's strikes grew more desperate, and for the first time, he seemed to falter.

"You're good," Cu said, smirking as he knocked one of Archer's swords aside. "But not good enough."

In the midst of the chaos, Shirou's hand instinctively clenched his bruises forming into 3 complex seals resembling a sword. His fingers closed into a fist as they glowed red

Rin's voice cut through the haze, her tone urgent. "Shirou!"

Shirou didn't fully understand what was happening, but he didn't have time to question it. He gripped his hand tightly, his blood pounding in his ears.

The air around him shifted, heavy and electric. A surge of energy poured through him, unlike anything he'd ever felt before. The single nerve circuit he had shattered in his rush, releasing a blinding light that enveloped the field.

Cu's eyes narrowed as he stepped back, shielding his face with his arm. "What the hell…?"

When the light faded, a figure stood before Shirou a woman clad in shining silver armor, her golden hair flowing in the breeze. She held a something in her hands a swirl of wind that she seemed to grip

"Wha…" Shirou whispered, his voice trembling unable to finish his own words.

The knight turned toward him, her expression calm and resolute. "I, Saber have answered your summons, Are you my Master?"

Cu's grin widened, though there was a new wariness in his eyes. "Well, isn't this interesting? Two Masters, two Servants… this is getting a little crowded for me."

He stepped back, his staff twirling idly at his side. "I'll give you this round, kid. But don't think this is over. Also you'll need this the Lady in Red over there should know what this does." he says as he tosses a rune stone towards Saber who catches it looking at Cu with a curious expression.

With a final glance at Shirou, Saber and than Archer & Rin, Cu turned and vanished into the shadows, his laughter echoing faintly as he disappeared.

(Arkiel)I can feel a rather Large headache as I awaken in my makeshift campsite in the morning as I feel a small headache as I see a new notification.

User has gained +400 points (600) when they were asleep and as such Rolling.

Spoiler: Beloved of Gaia 100 CP

I barely skimmed through the details before purchasing the perk without hesitation. This was too good to pass up—a direct blessing from Gaia itself, practically making the planet my ally. The benefits were invaluable, especially with the potential influence over spirits and even Gaia.

Beloved of Gaia purchased 500 CP Remaining Would you like to roll again?

The answer was obvious. I selected "Yes" without a second thought.

Rolling again

Spoiler: Honkai Constructs 200 CP

The description seemed promising telekinetic control, unparalleled durability, adaptability along with six of these weapons could be very useful. These constructs were clearly a versatile weapon option. My only hesitation was that I had no prior knowledge with Honkai Constructs and I don't know if these were the strongest matierals in the form of Diamonds or the ones of Stars and planets and cleaving worlds and concepts. Still, the potential utility outweighed my doubts, so I decided to take the plunge a large part of it coming from the idea of having a cool shapeshifting sword.

Honkai Constructs purchased 300 CP Remaining.

As I reviewed my purchases, I felt a shift in the air, signaling an incoming presence. Caster appeared nearby, his expression sharp and focused.

"Looks like you have something to report," I muttered, my headache subsiding as curiosity took over. This should be good I had a feeling luck was on my side today I couldn't wait to set up the events of meeting with Rin and seeing if I could get her to align with me and take down a certain blueberry tart of a bastard and his ancestor.

Author's Notes

So here's the 1st chapter of the story and I am currently having ChatGPT help me with the sentence structuring since I'm not the best at it yet, but I hope to get better over time and I just wanna thank everyone for their patience and understanding along with all the advice I've been getting.

As for the Story umm I could use some help with understanding Honaki Constructs as I've never touched a Honkai Impact game and don't know how good this roll was in the end or what these things do apart from what this power notes and apparently they originally belonged to some herald of the void so please and thank you for anyone who could help clear up some of the information a bit better would be a massive help.

In addition fuck rolling the Beloved of Gaia was literally the biggest jackpot of "Hey, you wanna just be practically a god of Magic in Modern Times. Espically when we start going into the Singularities and going further and further back that Beast effect is going to rain king! Also Yes Fou will indeed be Best Friend!"

Spoiler: Fou Best Beastie

As you all can see this also means I finally figured out how to post images as well (Sorry been thinking it's been in the Media section) XD

So I'll be putting the images I use for some references

Spoiler: Arkiel 'Ainsworth' Main Character/Self Insert

Spoiler: Cu Caster

Spoiler: Rin "Fine Legs" Tohsaka

Spoiler: Sakura "Don't Stick Dick In Crazy But you Wanna" Matou

Spoiler: The Adult reddit Image of Illya via Link & the closest I could get to work

Hope you all have a good night I need to be up in 3 hours so yeah I spent the last 6 hours working on this so I hope you all enjoyed it.Last edited: Dec 19, 2024 Like ReplyReport Reactions:desu, sungod13, Maralis and 656 others