>>3244995
>[X] Female

>>3244995
>Male

>>3244995
>Male

>>3245005
>>3245012
> [X] Male

Not knowing what else to do, you search the current floor for the stairs. At a glance, you know that the elevators won't work; the buttons that operate them not exacting your inputs.

Down the steps, you feel something in your pocket. Digging deep into them, you pull out a few coins. Three to be exact. Nonetheless, you have more pressing matters: a need to clarify your present situation. And so, you put them away into your jacket.

The building's front doors are blocked by what you assume to be a car. Precariously, you take another exit in the form of another window, trying to avoid any cuts from the leftover glass. Soon enough, you shortly arrive in the city's streets. The terrain is as damaged as you expected from what you first saw, obstructions, either small or large, placed upon numerous foundations.

> Try to travel outside the city's bounds.
> Find a police station or a telephone of some sort.
> Travel to the light-emitting tower.

>>3245138
>Travel to the light-emitting tower

>>3245172
> [X] Travel to the light-emitting tower.

A case of curiosity enwraps your wonder when gazing at the white tower. So much so that you become drawn to it. It promises something, but it doesn't tell you what. A lure that you cannot resist.

Ultimately, you decide to make your way to it with self-acknowledged intent. How to traverse the ruins before you is the only matter that you must focus on. Nevertheless, you find your own path through the inanimate opposers.

> Roll 1d100. Best of three.

Rolled 62 (1d100)

>>3245227

Rolled 54 (1d100)

>>3245227

Rolled 36 (1d100)

>>3245227

>>3245240
>>3245465
>>3245502
> [ Rolled 62 ]

The air is as empty of man-made sound as to the city itself; an encompassing, howling wind serves as the only ambient noise.

Upon opening the tower's doors after a good thirty minutes or so, it releases a brighter light than what it emits. Your eyes take a moment to adjust itself to the illuminated view. And after regaining a better sight, you see that there's just a staircase that spirals upwards. Like before, it teases your curiosity.

This adventurous attitude is unexpected, fueling a drive to continue this unplanned trip. The platform - which is both the tower's roof and the final floor - is home to a pedestal. On said display is a plain goblet.

It's made of, what you think to be, silver. You couldn't help but touch it.

It briefly shined, an unnatural force seizing the three coins from your pocket. You try to retrieve them, but the sudden speed of their pull has already reached to the silver cup's mouth.

Upon your coin's disappearance, a burning pain grows on your right hand. It was brief, nonetheless, the quick stimulus left a lingering impression. At the site, a small tattoo.

In reaction, you try to rub the mark off. But no matter how hard, it remained.

> [ ] Descend the tower.
> [ ] Stay at the top of the tower.

>>3245666
>Stay at the top for a bit, and if nothing happens descend

>>3245666
>Stay at the top of the tower.

>>3245677
>>3245681
> [X] Stay at the top/ Wait if anything happens.

You stay at the top of the tower, overlooking the city whose sight has already grown old. The more that you think about this world and what had just developed reinforces the conclusion that this is a dream. It has to be. No mere riot or rebellion can cause this kind of destruction overnight. Maybe a nuclear attack from some other county? No— you'd be dead.

Just then, down below, are figures that start to emerge from the alleyways. You squint your eyes to see a better picture, beholding something that could be more outrageous than the coin eating goblet: a group of skeletons. Their bones are bare and movement is conducted for no apparent reason, let alone how they're being kept together.

Steadily, they approach the tower's doors. If you go down the winding stairs fast enough, then you might be able to take a random route to safety. Going by their sluggish, though varying, speed if your calculations are correct.

> Rush down the stairs.
> Continue to stay at the top?

>>3245875
>Rush down the stairs.

>>3245875
>Rush down the stairs

>>3245880
>>3245881
> [X] Rush down the stairs.

> Roll 1d20

Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>3246506

Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>3246506

Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>3246506

File: spaaaaaaaaah.jpg (359 KB, 640x852)

359 KB JPG

>>3246511

File: Sad Crash Dance.gif (1.09 MB, 200x200)

1.09 MB GIF

>>3246511
>>3246518
Aw fuuuuuck

>>3246509
>>3246511
>>3246517
> [ Rolled 1 ]

Knowing the danger that is to stay in place, you start your way back down the tower. Adrenaline accelerates your marching feet as your ears catch a faint rattling in the distance.

To your disappointment— or rather, horror— an additional being enters the alarming picture; upon gazing far through the opened tower doors, a black silhouette of a woman appears behind the mass of bones. She's floating over them, the outline of her robe waving to and fro in suspension.

You will yourself to exit the bottom floor. Incomprehension drives your instinctual habit to run, trailing around the circular structure of the building that you were in a second ago. But your rushed scurrying grabs the attention of the unknown being. And soon, with beams pouring overhead—produced by patterned shapes in the sky— her little army pursues.
_____

Shadow servant Medea (Caster) is now in pursuit.
_____

> [ ] Seek refuge in one of the buildings.
> [ ] Keep running.
> [ ] - Another option -

>>3246613
>Seek refuge in one of the buildings

>>3246613
>Seek refuge in another building
>Another option: look for other people
Shit, we've got shadow servants on our asses. I guess all we can do is look for Chaldea or something

>>3246613
> [ ] Keep running.
Will walls block shadow servant?

>>3246678
>>3246685
> Roll 1d100

Rolled 85 (1d100)

>>3246797

Rolled 58 (1d100)

>>3246797

Rolled 98 (1d100)

>>3246797

>>3246841
>>3246843
>>3246901
> [ Rolled 98 ]

Making use of the given opportunity, you take refuge in one of the lifeless buildings. However, that action alone doesn't dissuade the undead horde and their master.

Four floors up, you hide behind a dusty counter while they come near. Fortunately, the ability to search for your presence isn't as complete in comparison to the enigmatic method that binds their limbs together.

After waiting for twenty minutes, you gradually exit your self-contained shelter—though, it wasn't very effective in hindsight. The skeletons that sought you out have emptied themselves of the current floor, but suspicion warns that they're still around.

The sound of rattling feet floods the area again; in response, you duck back down. They're retreating to where their master is, you presume. And quickly they did, exiting outside to join the open streets.

Gathering the courage to explore into possible danger, you crawl your way to a wall's cavity to peek past. Only then, when absorbing the shadowy woman's image, does the tattoo begin to burn once more.

You grit your teeth, pulling away from the gaping hole in the wall. This wasn't a minor discomfort; it dragged on than it initially did for the first time. Enduring the absent burn on your right hand, you keep quiet while this moment passes.

> Roll 1d7. This will be a majority vote instead for a period of fifteen minutes. Time will be lengthened as I see fit.
Results correspond to the following order.
1 - Saber
2 - Archer
3 - Lancer
4 - Caster
5 - Rider
6 - Assassin
7 - Berserker

Rolled 6 (1d7)

>>3247051
Assassin plz

Rolled 4 (1d7)

>>3247051
>Assassin
Do we roll or vote for a class?

>>3247078
We're rolling for class.

Rolled 7 (1d7)

>>3247051
Ass

Rolled 4 (1d7)

>>3247051

>>3247061
Assassin

>>3247078
>>3247143
Caster

>>3247111
Berserker

Rolls are still open for the time being before I lock in.

Rolled 3 (1d7)

>>3247051

Rolled 7 (1d7)

>>3247051

Rolled 6 (1d7)

>>3247051

>>3247061
>>3247170
>>3247078
>>3247143
>>3247111
>>3247169

Final choice.

> [ ] Caster
> [ ] Assassin
> [ ] Berserker

>>3247192
>> [ ] Assassin

>>3247192
>Assassin

>>3247192
>[X] Assassin

>>3247192
> [ ] Caster

>>3247192
Come on, people. Assassin is the class with the least utility!
> [X] Caster

>>3247263
You know, you're right. Except for a few exceptions but gonna switch votes.
>>3247192
>> [ ] Caster

>>3247192
>> [ ] Caster

>>3247192
> [ ] Caster

>>3247254
>>3247263
>>3247290
>>3247353
>>3247359
> [X] Caster

Your breath steadies itself upon the burn's weakening deterioration. Thankfully, that shadow of a woman didn't notice you; yet, at least, as she's taking her sweet time to thoroughly probe the present street.

Suddenly, with senses that have tuned themselves to fit your predicament, you hear someone approach from the dark corners of this elevated floor. "Are you my master?" it says before any tangible form could be realized. But you didn't have to seek the voice on your own accord; the questioner came to you.

It's revealed to be a woman. She's abnormally tall— to which you estimate to be around one-hundred-and-sixty centimeters— alongside ebony hair that reaches midway past her back.

Shoes do not caress her feet, for the fact is that she's clothed in an ancient robe. Yes, it's decorated to a degree with fainted purple; but such dress is plainly fashioned, her face showing only indifference.

> [ ] Question her identity instead.
> [ ] Question where she came from.
> [ ] You're unsure and confused. "Y-Yes?"
> [ ] - Another Option -

>>3247957
>Question her identity instead

>>3247957
> [X] You're unsure and confused. "Y-Yes?"
Over 160CM, long black hair, ancient clothing... holy shit, did we luck out and pull Semiramis in her caster form?

>>3247957
>> [ ] You're unsure and confused. "Y-Yes?"

>>3247957
> [ ] - Another Option -
"Absolutely. A servant is just what I could use in this situation. You know anything about what happened here?"
Also really hoping we pulled Semiramis. Circe would be even better, but black hair says it can't be her.

>>3247981
>>3247984
> [X] You're unsure and confused.

"Y-Yes?" Her unassuming looks make her out to be harmless. However, you can't spare caution; apprehensive you are.

The woman who stands before you smirks. "I see. I am your servant— caster," bowing for just a second. In a way, a pleasantry like this is comforting. Even if it's brief. She then takes her eyes off of you and in the direction of the controlling silhouette. "A bad problem, right off the bat, huh?"

> [ ] Ask her name.
> [ ] Question where she had come from.
> [ ] Propose that both of you should escape. It's dangerous!
> [ ] - Another Option -

>>3248008
>> [ ] Question where she had come from.
I want to ask her name, but since protagonist-kun doesn't have grail-war metaknowledge, he should be thinking something along the lines of "she introduced herself as caster, we'll go with that for now."
Also, just realized Xuanzang is also a 160cm caster with black hair. Please don't be Xuanzang, unnamed Servant.

>>3248008
>> [ ] Question where she had come from.

>>3248018
>>3248025
> [X] Question where she had come from.

Wanting to know how and why she has appeared at this moment, you said: "Where did you come from? I hope you understand that you've just shown out of nowhere!"

"You don't know?" seeing that her expectations have betrayed her. Should you know about something?

"No. None at all."

"That's dismaying," now slightly discouraged. "All you need to know is that I'm from a place that's detached from the world. A copy of a previous life; albeit, with some alterations. Or do I need to elaborate sometime else for a better picture?"

"I-I'm fine. What we need to deal with is her," reminding the void body's presence.

> [ ] Try to escape
> [ ] Ask if there's any way to fight?
> [ ] - Another Option -

>>3248108
Try to escape.

Safety first, then knowledge might be the best strategy since we dont know anything yet.

>>3248108
>> [ ] Try to escape

>>3248108
> [X] Try to escape
We may know that Caster can take down a shadow servant, but from protagonist's perspective she's just some woman.
"For now, let's see if we can get away from that thing. We can take stock of the situation after that."

>>3248108
Try to escape

(Am I doing this right? First time trying one of these, saw it and was interested.)

>>3248118
>>3248123
>>3248126

>>3248129
You're doing just fine.

> [X] Try to escape.

"For now, let's see if we can get away from that thing. We can take stock of the situation after that."

"If it's that you wish, then I'll follow."

Swift to make an agreement; both you and this mysterious, greek-dressed woman look for a way to escape.

> Roll 1d20

Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>3248141

Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>3248141
>Greek dressed

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>3248141

>>3248148
I went through a list of all the Casters in Fate so far while waiting, and none of the ones with black hair over 160cm are Greek. Seems like this is either an original character or a new take on another servant. FUN!

>>3248158
You can roll a d20 by inputting dice+1d20 in the options bar, FYI.

>>3248158
In the options field, right below the name, write "dice+1d20." For other dices, change the "20" into another number, such as "dice+1d100," or "dice+1d50."

>>3248141
Is this correct now?

It should pop up in bold in your post, like you can see in the earlier posts. Input "dice+1d20" without the quotation marks.

Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>3248188
Did it this time without a capital d

>>3248141

File: hassanofthecursedarm_(1).png (194 KB, 512x724)

194 KB PNG

>>3248144
>>3248148
>>3248149
> [ Rolled 17 ]

Taking the lead— as you still retain the pride of a man— the two of you safely escape the building. You manage to not upset any of the blackened witch's minions; and soon, a greater distance is created.

Your newly acquired companion, or...'servant,' tugs at you to retreat into cover after resting in respite for a while: a large piece of concrete rubble, big enough to hide both of your figures. "Another one," the nameless companion informed.

Just as she forewarned, a second silhouette invades the scene. However, this one doesn't look the same at all. From what you can discern, it's wearing a mask; nothing else is clear on its body, except for the obscuring cloak it wears.

"Almost got caught off guard..." she remarked, peering at the swift being with caution.

> [ ] Try to avoid this shadow figure as well.
> [ ] Confront it?
> [ ] - Another Option -

>>3248245
>Confront it?

>>3248245
Try to avoid.

>>3248245
>> [ ] Confront it?

>>3248245
Try to avoid

>>3248245
> [X] Try to avoid this shadow figure as well.
At this point, protagonist should be thinking in terms of the possibility that we're being stalked by some sort of organization, or that these are the forces that destroyed the city. If we didn't want to fight when there was one, we definitely don't want to fight now. Keep trying to get to a safe zone so we can figure out what's going on.

>>3248245
>Confront it?

>>3248245
> [ ] Try to avoid

>>3248255
>>3248264
>>3248277
>>3248293
> [X] Try to avoid this shadow figure as well. / Find a safe zone.

Although danger looms, you notice your tiring brain. Words cannot describe today; an utterance can only escape your mouth if you tried, for what you say doesn't encapture the image of walking skeletons and ghost-like figures who fire beams.

"Avoid this one as well. Let's go down to that park, perhaps," you proposed.

"Sure. But before we go, do you feel anything that's 'off?' I'm not sure that we're in the real world."

"W-What do you mean?" your eyes becoming dumbstruck.

The companion ponders, hesitant. "...Actually, never mind what I just said. We have other things to be worried about. That park, you said?" her head pointing at the location's direction.

> Roll 1d20

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>3248345

Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>3248345

Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>3248345

Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>3248345

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>3248345

Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>3248345

...are we sure this isn't a d10?

Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>3248345

>>3248351
>>3248356
>>3248358
> [ Rolled 10 ]

Again, you avoid the creature's view.

You don't stop at the park, but, instead, move further into the forest that stands beside it. A more secure zone is what you see it as; the cloistering trees provide a way to lose any enemy if you traverse the natural maze in haste. Though, speed is a concerning matter if such a situation does happen.

Your peripheral sees something in the air. "What's that?"

"Huh?" Mimicking your squinting action, she is thrice more cautious. Thankfully, the trees overshadow you from what you saw. Never in your life did you encounter many obstacles in a day; in particular, ones that could kill you in an instant.

A distinction is made when it lowers itself from the sky. It's a reaper of sorts, a small bag hanging off its belt and a scythe hanging on a shoulder. For some reason, you could tell that it's looking for something...or someone.

The reaper continues to lower itself until it, too, becomes hidden by the forest.

"That isn't good. An enemy servant is here..."

"Wait a minute. There are other ones?!"

"Yup. You really have no clue about what's going on, don't you?"

"Again, no!"

Your companion gives out an exasperated sigh. "All I can say right now is that there are other people who want to kill you. More specifically me, but I doubt that they'll let you loose. Stay close, okay?"

Before you can say anything, a gust of wind picks up, silencing your attempt to argue.

Undisputed, the accompanying woman begins to speak in a foreign language. Shapes start to form beneath her while she suspends her hands outright in an idle fashion.

> Roll 1d100

Rolled 84 (1d100)

>>3248543

Rolled 38 (1d100)

>>3248543

Rolled 99 (1d100)

>>3248543

Rolled 85 (1d100)

>>3248543

Rolled 66 (1d100)

>>3248543

Rolled 62 (1d100)

>>3248543

>>3248557
>>3248570
>>3248590
> [ Rolled 99 ]

From within the shade, a glimmer flashes before a wave of sand shoots out. Your companion plucks the air as if she's operating an instrument, silken threads— attached to two parallel trees— weaving themselves into a shield.

The flying sand is displaced into the air after colliding with the web. Again, the woman works her hands, this time undoing the construction that she made. Under the moonlight, you finally see that the surrounding area is thinly covered with thin strands.

She glances to her left; four more projectiles travel forward at an incredible speed, only to be rendered useless by your servant's work. However, she doesn't stop there, manipulating the webbing to apprehend the attacker from afar.

It was successful. With resistance, the same personage is dragged out into the open, wholly wrapped in an arresting manner. "I assume that he's an assassin," she remarks, posed in a ready stance.

> [ ] Question the reaper's identity.
> [ ] Stay back.
> [ ] - Another Option-

>>3248686
>Question the reaper's identity

>>3248686
>question the reaper's identity.

>>3248686
>> [ ] Question the reaper's identity.
OOC I think our servant might be Arachne before she became a spider. That's just my bet though

>>3248686
Ask companion what to do

>>3248686
> [X] Question the reaper's identity.
Natural thing to do.

>>3248711
>>3248730
>>3248738
>>3248760
> [X] Question the reaper's identity.

"Who are you?" directing yourself to meet the captured servant. Of course, under your own's guard.

"I have no need to answer," it said. A chill goes down your spine upon listening to its voice alone; is this some sort of figment from your nightmare? Perhaps, you're lucid all along!

"I know that this is also a useless question, but where's your master? Unless, this place is what I think it is," your companion proceeded.

"Eheheh~ Not telling. All I can say is that my boss is off somewhere safe."

Without another word, Assassin—at the very least, what your servant just called him— becomes a blur in a reality. The next thing you knew, he's right atop of you, swinging his blade.

Rivaled in reaction, your servant manages to pull you out of the way, a web forcefully lugging you aside. "T-Thanks, er...you!"

"Just address me as Caster for now," she said under her breath, focused on the target in front of her. "Your orders!"

> [ ] Try to injure Assassin rather than capturing him again.
> [ ] Play defensively for now.
> [ ] Ask if Caster could solve this confrontation in one swing.
> [ ] - Another Option -

>>3248840
Play defensively for now.

>>3248840
> [X] Ask if Caster could solve this confrontation in one swing.
"Capture doesn't seem viable right now. Is there any way you can take this thing down decisively?"

>>3248840
>Try to injure Assassin rather than capturing him again.

>>3248840
Supporting >>3248852. Wipe Assassin out with one spell.

>>3248840
>Play defensively for now.

>>3248840
>> [ ] Ask if Caster could solve this confrontation in one swing.

>>3248840
Also who are we, what skills do we know?

>>3248896
...I can't believe we didn't think to ask OP until now.
I was just assuming we were a mundane rando who woke up here with no knowledge.

>>3248852
>>3248868
>>3248885
>inb4 we make caster use her NP and then everyone else knows who she is

>>3248903
Even if we are rando, we should have some type of skill we are good at, even if it is useless right now. After all it's hard to plan if you don't know what capabilities you have.

>>3248916
We're just asking. She'll probably warn us if that's the only way to do it.

>>3248928
>we should have some type of skill we are good
I wish I was good at something.

>>3248896
>>3248903
Yumagata Rukie. A "run-of-the-mill" high school student who lives in "Owashi City."
You're pretty good with a sewing needle.

>>3248942
That's pretty cute

>>3248942
Well, if that infuences our servant in any way that further supports my Arachene theory
Also, gonna switch to
> [ ] Play defensively for now.
Since someone did bring up the NP point.

>>3248941
Mundane skills are still skills. My best skill is sleeping away my days off.

>>3248962
If you are right, we have a good chance to lay some traps or slow down enemies while we escape.

>>3248962
Aren't a servant's abilities supposed to be the abilities they possessed in their myths, though? IIRC, Arachne was just a really good seamstress who got smacked down by the gods for her arrogance; not a Caster-level witch.

>>3248991
It's just my guess so far. And Semiramis didn't really have anything to do with the hanging gardens of Babylon, people thought she did though so it became her NP. Anastasia Romanov wasn't a Mage either, and she's a caster

>>3249015
That's fair.

>>3248942
As far as my JPN understanding goes, those names don't really make sense. I'd like to humbly suggest Yumigawa (弓川) Rushorou (褸消郎) from Obashi (大橋), instead, to better conform to the language and naming conventions.
Of course, this is your quest so I'll understand if you disregard my suggestion.

>>3249064
I can get behind that, and I'll admite that I made it on the spot. But how does "Yumigawa Yumeko" sound?

>>3249265
So, the thing is that Rukie isn't quite a proper name, but sounds feminine, while Yumeko is an out-and-out girls' name. Unless you're going for a "boy named sue" situation, I wouldn't recommend it.

>>3249265
If you're going for the Aliteration thing Yamato is a masculine given name and could work instead of Yumeko

>>3249288
I see. I'll take on your suggestion and use Yumigawa Rushorou instead. I'm very thankful for the advice.

>>3249362
Hey, no problem. Thanks for being so open to advice.

>>3248962
>>3248875
>>3248848
> [X] Play defensively for now.

"P-Play defensively for now! I don't think that capturing him will work with what he did before."

"Aye!"

Turning this attempted murder into a game of endurance, you watch the spectacle of both silk and sand. Assassin has kept to his first plan of action, staying away from the core of Caster's webs while firing off imaginary dunes. Like you have commanded, your servant doesn't go any further than just shielding your anchored spot; the speed at which her fingers strum the space before her is beyond a normal human's pace.

The sky slowly changes its tone. With the Sun ascending over the horizon, the city's shade will be extinguished in a matter of minutes. It just goes to show how long you have been here, but you can't shake off a fleeting feeling in your chest.

> [ ] Continue the defensive.
> [ ] Switch gears and go on the offensive.
> [ ] Ask Caster if she can finish this confrontation!
> [ ] - Another Option -

>>3250360
>> [ ] Switch gears and go on the offensive.

>>3250360
>Ask Caster if she can finish this confrontation!
Okay, fighting an Assassin (a Hassan in particular) in the darkness is a bad idea

>>3250360
> [ ] Switch gears and go on the offensive

>>3250367
>>3250424
> Roll 1d20

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>3250485

Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>3250485

Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>3250485

Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>3250485

Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>3250485

>>3250491
>>3250495
>>3250496
> [ Rolled 11 ]

Switching gears, you tell Caster to go on the offensive. She obliges, now determined to fish out your opponent.

Shedding the defensive stand, you're forced to maneuver alongside your companion as the fight goes on. Woven shields are now crafted into weak spears, their numbers making up for their absence of strength.

You notice the insufficiency in Caster's aggressive skill, however, she's able to nick Assassin's coat upon better effort. That doesn't stop your enemy's harvesting motion, though, cutting away fragile strands whose ability shines under a combined structure.

Then, a clap.

Both parties cease their actions to find the source of the invisible gesture: a man.

Striding between the two present servants, he sports a lax mannerism as if this anomaly is normal. Like she, Caster, and to some extent, Assassin, this personage is dressed in a unique style.

A semblance of the Middle East is hinted in his disposition; lightly tanned with hair cut short. Walking around in primitive sandals, he calms Assassin with only a hand, making the reaper stow away his tool.

"A promising man, aren't you?" he spoke under a relaxed face. "Don't worry, my buddy here won't do anything rash without my word."

> [ ] Ask if Caster knows him.
> [ ] "You're this guy's boss?"
> [ ] "An explanation would be welcomed!"
> [ ] - Another Option -

> [ ] "You're this guy's boss?"

>>3250624
> [ ] "An explanation would be welcomed!"

>>3250624
>> [ ] "An explanation would be welcomed!"

>>3250624
>An explanation would he welcomed!

>>3250624
An explanation would be welcomed

>>3250691
>>3250701
>>3250816
>>3251157

"An explanation would be welcomed!" you cried.

"No worries," replied the young man. "I am...Judas. It is clear that you barely understand what you have gotten yourself into, no? Then let me tell you— as a little favor to my participant~"

Caster gives you a concerned look, obviously confused about this young man's meaning. The circumstances are indeed different than what she anticipated.

He continues. "This world, a deconstructed parallel from the real deal, is mine. Here, I have brought you to reenact a ritual that's lost to time, as the world cannot sustain it. From what it looks like, you have already come across one of my own products."

"So kidnapped me?!" you said, yet to grasp the presented idea.

"More or less, alongside six other people. But..." he paused, showing nine silver coins in his hands, "I can always grab a few more competitors with these bad boys~ For you see, this kind of ritual is a tournament with a grand prize. A miraculous wish~"

> [ ] "I don't buy it."
> [ ] "I could care less about that. I want to return home."
> [ ] "What makes you think that I'll cooperate!"
> [ ] - Another Option -

>>3251255
>> [ ] "I don't buy it."
Like, as crazy as everything's been can a wish really be that easy?

>>3251255
> [X] - Another Option -
Rushorou has never been satisfied with a mundane life; living every day without purpose, knowing he was only going to school to wind up in the same kind of draining office job that's slowly killing his father with the daily overtime and overwork. Maybe this is just a dream, maybe it's a parallel world, maybe there are enough strings attached to hang himself with. None of that matters now; this experience has been more exhilarating than his whole life before today, and he'll seize the chance to keep living beyond the bounds of mundanity. The wish is just a bonus.
"Fine, I'm in. I'll fight your tournament, and come out on top. Now let's hear the rules."

>>3251255
Supporting >>3251291. Tired of the reluctant protagonist cliche.

>>3251255
I support
>>3251291
As well

>>3251255
>"So if I win, can I ravage your cute ass?"

>>3251300
I feel that completely average protag tired of his boring life is just as cliche.

>>3251340
It's another cliche, yeah, but as a player character I think it's a more fun motivation. Besides, OOC we all showed up in this thread looking for a holy grail war, right? May as well get the protagonist's motivation lined up with our own.

>>3251340
Got any ideas for a non-cliche motivation? What's your take on where Rushorou is coming from?

>>3251355
Fair enough.
>>3251291
Supporting this too.

>>3251361
Not really, I just like to bitch things sometimes.

>>3251291
>>3251300
>>3251315
>>3251365
> [X] Escape the bounds of mediocrity.

Judas— a weird enough name as it is— tucks his arms behind him, holding up a businessman's smile. You know that he has caught your interest.

A moment's contemplation leads to reminiscence, disregarding what you have gone through.

You, Yumigawa Rushorou, has never been satisfied with a mundane life. Purpose has never been found for a young, growing boy like you; you're just fulfilling your job as a student to wind up in the same kind of office job as your father— and you've seen how it saps at his life, even if he's a joyful man. In the age that you live in, daily overtime is a monster, killing the common person with overwork due to modernized standards.rip Gilgamesh

Maybe this is just a dream. A parallel world, like how Judas just said. In the end, even if this existence is fated to be forgotten upon your waking, perhaps, you can indulge in it for a bit. Hell, this is the most exhilarating moment in your life. Why not go further before the Sun peers through your bedroom window.

Discarding an indecisive mind, you're set to escape the bounds of mundanity. "Fine, I'm in. I'll fight in your tournament and come out on top."

"Gung ho!— I like that~ You know, I used to be such a weak-minded person. But up until recently, I have realized that I can carve my own path to redemption...However, you do not need to know any of that. I'm a boring man."

Judas lowers himself to the floor, his toes pressing against the soles of his sandals. "Presently, I have called in seven contenders. You are one of them, as you would know. Each participant is paired up with a servant, like mine, but our situation is different than what I have in store for all of you.

"You'll need to eliminate another person's servant or, either, both of them. Additionally, there are no constraints on how you fight; you can team up or join in on an ongoing opposition as an ambush. All that matters is that you need to be the final person to keep your servant. When that does happen, well, you'll be granted your wish. And I don't mean to be vague like that. You just need to trust me~

"I must remind that your opponents won't be just a normal joe like you, though, possibly. The summoning process that I used to gather all of you runs with its own rules."

He then points to the west. "Travel in that direction. There, you'll enter in a freshly constructed city. I have told the other masters of the same, so you better hurry."

With introductions now finished, Judas picks himself up. He pats the bottom half of his robes to clean out the dirt, soon ordering Assassin— apparently a different servant than what you're going to be up against— to make their exit. They were ephemeral, disappearing without a trace with the help of his servant's power.

> [ ] Start making your way to the west.
> [ ] Ask about Caster's identity now that you're both alone.
> [ ] - Another Option -

>>3251465
> [X] Ask about Caster's identity now that you're both alone.
"What's your take on this, Caster? It seems like you had some idea of what was going on, but you also seemed pretty surprised when this "Judas" guy started talking. Care to fill me in on your background with all this?"

>>3251465
Gulag, do we get readouts on Servant stats and skills after seeing them in action, like Shirou and the other magi in F/SN? Or is that one of the rules that have been changed for this HGW?

>>3251465
>> [ ] Ask about Caster's identity now that you're both alone.
We can also talk while we walk.

>>3251465
Ask about casters identity now that we are both alone

>>3251465
> [ ] Ask about Caster's identity now that you're both alone.
Supporting the idea of asking about her grail war expectations as well as her identity. Planning is going to be easier if we're on the same page in terms of knowledge going in.
Plus, getting information on the grail war was an essential relationship-building move for Shirou. We should definitely try to build as much of a positive relationship with Caster as possible.

>>3251496
>>3251528
>>3251567
>>3251568
> [X] Ask about Caster identity. / Start walking.

Treading in the direction where Judas pointed at, you begin to converse with your servant. Eventually, it led to Caster's identity.

"So...I never got your real name," you mentioned under the young Sun.

"You're right about that, though, it's a precaution that both servants and masters need to take in mind. A true name of a servant may reveal a certain weakness if one knows the story and, or, legend...However, we're alone. And, perhaps, this should be a good time to inform you about myself."

Caster takes your hand, a warm feeling flowing into you upon connection. "I am Arachne. The seamstress who provoked the goddess Athena, and the first spider."
___
https://pastebin.com/eb8cETZW
___

> [ ] Talk "Write-in"

>>3251602
I am unfamiliar with the story, could you give me a short version of it?

>>3251602
>> [ ] Talk "Write-in"
"Well, it looks like we have something in common caster. Let's get a move on."
>>3251611
Arachne was a seamstress that was extremely good. And that fame reached the gods. Ahtena, which sewing incompossed one of her domains, said that she isn't better then her, cause gods are petty fucks. Then Arachne says they should have a contest to see which was better. Arachne won, and out of rage Athena turned her into a spider.

Oh man, those are some low parameters. We're definitely going to have to make the most of territory creation.
> [X] Talk "A seamstress, huh? I guess that's a hobby we have in common. I'm afraid I don't know much about Western myths, though. Do you mind telling me a bit more about your story?"

>>3251619
I don't think a Japanese highschooler is likely to be familiar with minor Greek myths. Even if we know it OOC, the character would probably want to ask more.

>>3251652
Oh I know. I was just stating that incase they didn't know that OOC

>>3251619
>>3251630

"A seamstress, huh? I guess that's a hobby that we have in common, Caster."

"How so?"

"I can do a little bit of needlework myself. Of course, I don't have anything on me, but I could show you sometime."

"That would be entertaining, I suppose. I just hope that you won't be too slow with the thread," Caster said with an unintended tone; it stroke at the heart a little.

You scratch your left ear to hide the embarrassment. "Hehe...We'll have to see when I do get my hands on something. By the way, do you mind telling me more about your story? I don't know much about Western myths."

"Hmm..." she hummed, recollecting her past— or the copied memories of the past. "As I just said, I was a seamstress in Greece. My skills at the loom were unparalleled that my achievements even reached the realm of the gods. In particular, Athena, who is also a master of the art. Boastful I was back then, but I argue that the divine wasn't any better. But that, in itself, is a mistake for a mortal woman. My pride soon reached a point where Athena herself came down to my father's house— and in response, I challenged her to a weaving contest out of spite.

"What I made pictured the exploits of Zeus and Poseidon, which didn't sit well with the Goddess. And, in the end, I won under a few other gods' judgment. However, Athena was maddened at my piece, striking me on the head three times. Gradually, I became the first spider, the first progenitor and the mother of such creatures. My life after that event was...mindless. That's all I can really describe it as."

> [ ] "How come you're in a human form then?"
> [ ] "So, you're not a magician(mage)?"
> [ ] "What did Athena look like?"
> [ ] - Another Option -

>>3251760
> [X] - Another Option -
"Fascinating; so were those techniques you used against Judas' assassin actually thread manipulation? It looked almost like magic, from where I stood."

>>3251760
I agree with
>>3251769

>>3251769
This

>>3251769
>>3251774
>>3251853

"That's pretty cool to hear. So were those techniques you used against Judas' assassin actually thread manipulation? It looked almost like magic, from where I stood."

"Magecraft," Caster corrected. "Anyways, yes. I can control and manipulate silken strands from within my territory. It's my ability as a caster. Though, somewhat weak compared to other servants."

Granted a break from malicious dangers— namely, the city where you first appeared— your journey is accompanied under a thankful silence. However, life isn't that linear.

> Roll 1d100

Rolled 40 (1d100)

>>3251884

Rolled 73 (1d100)

>>3251884

Rolled 49 (1d100)

>>3251884

Rolled 84 (1d100)

>>3251884

Rolled 14 (1d100)

>>3251884

>>3251897
>>3251900
>>3251926
> [ Rolled 73 ]

It has been quite a while since this morning, the day elapsing around noon. You have both entered a wide plain, its golden grass swaying with the wind; you couldn't believe that this place is part of the same world as that terrifying city.

If you strain your eyes hard enough, you can also see the outline of another urban environment. You guess that the place for battle wasn't too far from where you last left, or that you're faster than you thought at first.

"Ugh! How far was that city, again? I can't last under this heat!"

"Master, it's only a couple of degrees lower than the average temperate climate. Plus, there's also a breeze."

"That's not what I asked for!"

" *sigh* It's not that far. You can see it in the distance."

"Where?"

Caster goes down to her knees, scanning the area for any signs of the foreign conversation. You follow suit, relying on the seamstress' perception as it's more reliable than yours.

She recognizes two figures upon a hill. Detailing it to you: "There's a young woman over there...With thickly curled blonde hair and a blue dress. At her side is a...let's see...a lancer?"

> [ ] Ambush them.
> [ ] Make your presence known.
> [ ] Follow them.
> [ ] - Another Option -

>>3252102
>Make your presence known.
But be on our guard.

>>3252102
Ambush them, we're playing the game aren't we?

>>3252102
> [X] Ambush them.
My god, it's Luvia! Let's get her in the spider's web...
First, try to establish Caster's territory in the area without being detected. Once that's done, set thread traps to bind and disarm the enemies.

>>3252115
>>3252133
I thinks it's a little early to ambush them. We need a base, and an escape strategy, maybe even a hint to the true name. Especially since lance is generally a in your face opponent.

>>3252102
>>[ ] Try to avoid them

>>3252102
>Make your presence known

>>3252102
>>3252102
> [ ] Ambush them.
Rushorou heard that man call her "master," and that's all he needs to know they're the enemy. They might well attack on sight, and from the fight with assassin he knows Caster isn't great in a head-on fight. "He who strikes first wins," they say, and the element of surprise makes a big difference in a fight.

>>3252102
>>3252154
Fair point. Besides, now that I think about it Luvia is pretty similar to Rin. She could play the same role in the story.
Still, I think we should try to negotiate from a position of strength.
Switching to:
> [X] - Another Option - Establish Caster's territory, set traps to take down the potential enemies, and then introduce yourself

Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>3252205

>>3252204
This works. I'll switch to supporting diplomacy from strength.

Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>3252205

>>3252204
That's a plan I can agree with.
>>3252102
>>3252113
Changing my vote to >>3252204

Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>3252205

>>3252113
>>3252170
>>3252204

Sorry, didn't see the change of vote.

> Roll 1d20

Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>3252221

Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>3252205

Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>3252221

Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>3252221

>>3252221
Also a quick question; do we have command seals?

>>3252226
>>3252227
>>3252230
> [ Rolled 17 ]

You command Caster to set up her territory, planning to make your presence known before resorting to violent actions.

"It's done. I'll attack when you say so," she said after her channel— five minutes at least, from what you measured.

"Okay. Be ready to entangle them," you further instructed, now approaching the (possibly hostile) pair.

You call out as you get closer, waving a hand to grab their attention. The man with the spear, Lancer you presume, brandishes his weapon but doesn't attack right away. He immediately understands, advising his master to meet you down the hill.

The servant holds his short polearm in a guard, hiding his free hand under his mantle. You can slightly get a glimpse of a large bag, however, that isn't as important.

The girl behind him— hair fashioned into golden "sausage" curls in comparison to Lancer's brown, longer than average mane— rushes towards you head-on. "Who are you?!" she ordered with unfounded pride.

"Yumigawa Rushorou. Are you perhaps another master?" you asked back.

"What does it look like? I'll let you know that if you do anything funny, P— Er, Lancer, will leave you as dead as a rotten log!"

You awkwardly laugh, trying to calm the regal girl down. "I'm not here to fight. Surely! I just wanted to talk before doing anything drastic."

Lancer cuts in. "...Master, I think it's best to listen. He doesn't seem to be harmful. Yet."

The girl huffs. "Hmph! If you tell where your servant is, then I'll consider this discussion."

> [ ] Usher in Caster
> [ ] Don't call in Caster
> [ ] - Another Option -

>>3252292
Yes.

>>3252319
>> [ ] Usher in Caster

>>3252319
Usher in Caster.
Also ask for her name.

Brainstorming character details while we wait for the dice-roll outcome:
Rushorou has never found that special something that makes life worth it, the hobby or pursuit that sparks most people's actions and drives them on. Empty of personal motivation, his youth has been entirely directed by his parents.
Rushorou has always been a perfect student, ranks #1 in school-wide exams consistently, and is the student council president. He derives no enjoyment from this, however, and does it only because his father advised him to pursue academics and student government in order to pave the way for future success. Mr. Yumigawa is unaware of his son's malaise, and believes Rushorou to be the perfect, diligent son he's always hoped for.
His sewing hobby, likewise, is taken entirely from his mother. Needle-work, whether doing embroidery or making clothing from scratch, has always been Mrs. Yumigawa's favorite hobby, and Rushorou naturally followed along. He does enjoy this a bit more than schoolwork, but he can tell it gives his mother far more joy than it's ever given him.
Though he's never found difficulty in any pursuit, he's also never found satisfaction, a problem common to the talented. Now it seems that what was always missing from Rushorou's life was the thrill of danger; for the first time, in this life-or-death conflict, he's fully energized and really enjoying life.
Thoughts, anons? Gulag, what about you?

>>3252337
Sounds good! Though, I wonder what other anons think as well.

>>3252337
It hurts, but it's a good background.

>>3252319
I guess our outcome showed up before I finished writing. Still, I'd love it if you all give my thoughts on the protagonist's possible backstory a read.
> [X] Usher in Caster, but stay on guard
Have Caster show herself, but keep enough of a distance between her and Lancer that she's confident she can strike first. Can we send this order through the telepathic servant/master link, or do we lack that ability?

>>3252319
>Usher in Caster

>>3252354
I do guess that certain details need to fit "the every-day normal high schooler." However, I like the relationship with Rushorou's parents.

>>3252337
I like the idea. I'm glad that you mentioned that he had at least tried other things before giving up on them.

>>3252365
My thought was "what would Souichirou be like if he'd been born in a normal family rather than an assassins' village?" since we're the master of Caster, and I like parallels.

>>3252319
Usher in caster

Something else I'm thinking on: what's Rushorou's magic circuit situation?
Is he that one-in-a-million person born into a mundane family with enough circuits to be a magus and support a servant?
Is this a Shirou/Shinji situation, where he has just barely enough od to keep Caster running, but she'd get a major powerup if she found another source of energy?
Is energy being provided to the Servants by the weird coins/silver grail setup in this altered ritual?
Definitely something to ask Caster about during the next chance for dialogue is her energy source/level.

>>3252328
>>3252332
>>3252355
>>3252363

>>3252453
Judas' world, or more specifically, how he orchestrated this type of war, is supporting most of the servants' manifestation. But with Yumigawa's magic circuit situation, I'm still stuck between the Shirou/Shinji's Situation or the One-in-a-million Situation...I would love some input on such.

"Master, Rushorou, should I strike? You don't seem to be in a good spot," said the disembodied voice of Caster.

Your body jolts in surprise. What a strange method of communication it is. In reaction, both Lancer and the girl furrow a brow at the sight, though, straightening their faces to preserve the moment's flow.

Concentrating on your servant's voice, you attempt to reproduce this supernatural technique. "Caster, can you hear me?" you returned.

"Yes."

"That's good. Didn't know that we can do this...Come join me. These people don't seem to be set on killing us," you then assured.

"Is that so?" Caster replied in a reluctance. "I'll be there shortly."

Standing up, her height towers over the overgrown grass as she, too, shows herself. Being revealed doesn't crack her guard, however, hands are ready to pluck the air.

The regal girl speaks, "Is this your servant?"

You confirm this assumption, "Yeah, you're correct."

"What class? Lancer— along with a weird young man— has told me about this 'war's' elements."

"I-I think you should slow down," you pleaded. "I told you my name. It's only fair for me to know yours. Are you European, perhaps?"

The girl puts on a smug look. "Fufufu~ Why, Finnish. I am Truvetianne Edelfelt! A miraculous prodigy and the young head of the Edelfelt household! I won't blame you if you're crushed by my glorious air! Rather, I'll gladly welcome it! It's been too long since I have seen a proper servant— worse with this failure of a subordinate!"

"Oi, that isn't very nice to say! If my wife was here, she'd kick you to the curb!" protested Lancer.

"You're making yourself worse with what you said alone!" growled Truvetianne. "Should I shoot you down again?!"

"Ha! Try me! Sure, it hurts, but your curse is nothing more than a blunt arrow with that attitude!"

Apparently, that was the last straw. Truvetianne kicks Lancer between his legs, causing him to fall down in manly-induced pain. She then points a finger at him, rapidly chanting a string of sentences with a focused eye before punishing her servant's rudeness for the second time. A series of small flashes comes forth during the sequence.

> [ ] "I think that's enough.."
> [ ] "...Um. May I propose a partnership? I think that it'll help in the long run."
> [ ] "Caster, what is she doing? Is it magecraft, like you've said?"
> [ ] - Another Option -

>>3252590
>> [ ] "...Um. May I propose a partnership? I think that it'll help in the long run."

>>3252590
>Caster what is she doing? Is it magecraft, like you've said?

>>3252590
Let's try to take control of the situation. We can't let this princess dictate things; if Rushorou acts humble, it'll just go to her head.
> [X] "I think that's enough.."
"I think that's enough playing around with your Servant, Miss Edelfelt. You and I are in a fortuitous situation; in this free-for-all, we've met before arriving at the arena, and have the opportunity to form an alliance. To answer your earlier question, my Servant is Caster. The affinity between my Servant and yours seems obvious. What do you say, Miss Edelfelt? Shall we seize victory together?"
If Rushorou is taller than Truvetianne, he should walk up to her as he gives this presentation, emphasizing the size difference for psychological advantage. It's a shame we're on a plain with no walls or trees close by, or we could go for a kabedon.

>>3252590
Also I'm partial to the one in a million, that way we can start building our own family crest.

>>3252590
>"...Um. May I propose a partnership? I think that it'll help in the long run."
>"Caster, what is she doing? Is it magecraft, like you've said?"
Make sure to ask privately.

>>3252590
>"Caster, what is she doing? Is it magecraft, like you've said?"

>>3252590
Assuming Caster's parameters are set in stone, and can't be raised by finding another source of energy for her, I'd go for the one-in-a-million option. That way Rushorou can actually learn some magecraft and become an asset in the War.

>>3252717
While that is a good idea a overconfident (future enemy?) mage is easier to work around. Also it seems like she doesn't like being challenged/disrespected.

>>3252717
Ah jeez, I want to bully her. Supporting

>>3252590
I like the idea of trying to cow Truvetianne. Let's go with the confident approach from >>3252717

>>3252739
Ojou characters who put up a dominant front are the most fun kind of tsundere, though. If Rushorou stays confident and doesn't play to her ego, she'll eventually melt.

>>3252732
Actually, I'll switch to >>3252717

>>3252717
>>3252742
>>3252746
>>3252763
> [X] Confidence + Talk

>>3252724
>>3252736
I see that two of prefer the One-in-a-million option. I'll keep that unstated vote open for other Anons to join in before I do set it in stone.
_____

"I think that's enough playing around, Miss Edelfelt. You and I are in a fortuitous situation; in this free-for-all, we've met before arriving at the selected arena and have the opportunity to form an alliance," you noted. "To answer your question, my Servant is Caster. We aren't very good at close-range combat, but from afar, she makes for a good supporter. However, with your own Servant, the affinity between us seems obvious. So, what do you say?"

You make yourself seem taller— even though you're just a few centimeters apart. Truvetianne halts what's she is doing, changing the direction of her pointed finger to you; it's unclear if she's upset or not, but you hope that it isn't the former.

She squints her eyes as if to analyze your worth. "...I can agree with what you said, commoner. A previous encounter against a humanoid figure proved to be a challenge for Lancer. He does well in a proper, up-close duel, but not so much with cowardly tactics like blurring in and out of holds."

Mulling the suggestion in a second thought, Truvetianne then gives her answer. "I guess that I can allow this temporary alliance. Still, I am the one in charge; I can understand a man's aim to advance onto my hand, but I must clearly state that I'm out of your league. Tenfold, in more detail."

> [ ] Ask about Lancer's true name and his abilities.
> [ ] Thank her and move on to the appointed city.
> [ ] - Another Option -

>>3252853
>> [ ] Thank her and move on to the appointed city.

>>3252853
>> [ ] Thank her and move on to the appointed city.

Also, I prefer the One-in-a-million option

>>3252853
>Thank her and move on to the appointed city.
I kind of just want to ignore her comment about us being out of her league.

>>3252853
Oh yeah, I'm down for One-in-a-million

>Thank her and move on to the appointed city.

>>3252853
Ask about lancers abilities, but not his name. Talk to caster about lancers name when we are alone, stating that I heard her say p before saying lancer. ( I'm all for the one in a million idea too.)

>>3252853
> [X] Thank her and move on to the appointed city.
"I appreciate your good judgment; one who didn't appreciate the benefits of an alliance wouldn't be worth allying with."
Once we start walking, ask Caster about the magecraft Truvetianne was using through the telepathic link.
OOC, I think Lancer is Perseus. P, significant bag, powerful wife... it seems to fit.

>>3252853
>Thank her and move on to the appointed city.
>Another Option: Advance onto her hand

In case we timelapse over the rest of the walk to the city, I'd like to note here that we should be taking any opportunity to fluster Truvetianne.

>>3252870
>>3252876
>>3252880
>>3252881
>>3252894
>>3252896
> [X] Thank her and move on.

One-in-a-million it is! Though, I'll have to work that into the story.
_____

"I really appreciate it! One who isn't mindful about the pros of an alliance wouldn't be worth allying with!" you exclaimed...Happy.

"Don't get too chummy. Now get moving, commoner, before I get bored of you."

With Lancer recovered, you are now part of a small team; if there aren't any other troubles along the way, you might reach the city before late afternoon, if not a tad bit earlier.

Throughout the way, you question Truvietianne's magecraft with Caster— telepathically, as you fear the same consequences that Lancer had to endure. Sadly, your Servant can only discern it as some kind of curse.

> Talk with... "Write-in"
> [ ] ...With Truviet (Truvietianne)
> [ ] ....With Lancer
> [ ] ...With Caster
> [ ] Move on in silence.
> [ ] - Another Option -

>>3252949
>Talk with:
>Truviet
>Caster
>Lancer (double-team on Tru)

>>3252949
> [X] ...With Truvietianne
"Tell me, Miss Edelfelt. How did you wind up here? You don't seem like the type of person to dirty her own hands fighting."

>>3252949
>Talk with:
>Truviet
>Caster
>Lancer (double-team on Tru)

>>3252949
>> [X] ...With Truvietianne
>"Tell me, Miss Edelfelt. How did you wind up here? You don't seem like the type of person to dirty her own hands fighting."

>>3252949
>> [X] ...With Truvietianne
>"Tell me, Miss Edelfelt. How did you wind up here? You don't seem like the type of person to dirty her own hands fighting."

>>3252949
I support >>3252986

You off for the night, Gulag?

>>3252986
>>3252997
>>3253002
>>3253037
> [X] Talk with Truvietianne.
_____

You come up to Truvietianne's side. "Tell me, Miss Edelfelt. How did you wind up here? You don't seem like the type of person to dirty her own hands fighting."

She gives you a harsh glare before speaking. "I really had no choice on the matter. I doubt that you did as well. I was in my manor for one moment and, in the next, by a riverbank...While I'm at it, did you come across a silver goblet too?"

"Er, yeah. One was on top of a tall tower within a destroyed city."

"Peculiar. Mine was nestled inside a tree; I didn't have any opportunity to grab, though, as I was about to be chased by some shadow-casted beast."

> Roll 1d100

Rolled 18 (1d100)

>>3253955

Rolled 91 (1d100)

>>3253955

Rolled 41 (1d100)

>>3253955

>>3253958
>>3253966
>>3254032
> [ Rolled 91 ]

In exchange for your own recollections, the fellow Master does the same. She touched on her lineage for a short while, but the elaboration ended when another topic was mentioned, one that pertained to this war: Judas. You informed Truvietianne about said man, as she had stated that the person himself didn't spend as much time as with you. "He looked hurried in spite of his negligent demeanor," is what your newly-obtained partner shared. Albeit, with poison.

Talking with a rich daughter didn't sit well, in all your honesty. You're more used to the informal sort of conversations; nonetheless, you just needed to get used to the different display of mannerisms for the ball to get rolling. At a moderate speed, no less. The discussion is held off for some other appointment, however, now entering the bounds of the constructed city.

> [ ] Immediately search for other Masters.
> [ ] Set up camp somewhere.
> [ ] Spend some time exploring Judas' city.
> [ ] - Another Option -

>>3254120
>> [ ] Set up camp somewhere.

>>3254120
>> [ ] Set up camp somewhere.

>>3254120
> [X] Set up camp somewhere.
Base-building is key for Caster. We need to find a good slot to set up her Workshop. Obviously Rushorou doesn't understand the importance of finding a natural confidence of mana, like Ryuudou Temple, but he should at least ask Caster if there's anything that can strengthen her Territory.
>You're more used to the informal sort of conversations
Sounds like we need to teach Rushorou how to conduct himself as a proper gentleman posthaste! He'll never make it in magus society if he prefers to be casual.

Anons, I want your opinion. We have 2 heroines in front of us, bringing us as players to an important choice: which route are we on?
>Caster Route (Truviet is arrogant and irritating! If she does that "o-hoho" laugh, I'll lose my shit! Master-Servant romance was the way to go in FSN, and it's the way to go here!)
>Truvietianne Route (Himedere banzai! Ojou characters are adorable, and I'm waiting for an "ohoho" with baited breath! Break through that tsun layer at full speed!)
>No Heroine Route (Look, I'm just here for the holy grail war. Don't try to make this a waifu game, for the love of god. Fate/Zero was better than FSN anyway.)

>>3254156
Both are really valid options, but I'm personally having a hard time deciding. And didn't Shirou have a threesome with Saber and Rin in one of the routes?

>>3254162
He had a threesome one time on the Saber route, yeah. There's also one of the endings on the Rin route where he lives with Rin and Saber in a 3-person relationship after the HGW, so threesomes aplenty are implied there.

>>3254156
I agree with >>3254162 Let's see what happens character-wise before we start trying to waifu someone.

>>3254156
Caster Route if when, given that this is Fate it comes up, but just as happy with no route. I won't be pushing the waifuing, but I do have a preference between the two current options.

>>3254120
> [ ] Set up camp somewhere.
We have Caster, so we need to set up.

>>3254125
>>3254126
>>3254135
>>3254192
> [X] Set up camp somewhere.

You inquired Caster about her needs as a Servant. "Since there are not any outstanding locations to set up shop— from what I can sense— anywhere will do...But an elevated place is preferable. To resemble my mountain home, somewhat."

" 'Bout there?" Lancer said. "That institute is built on a pretty high hill. We could use one of those lecture halls as a base. The dormitory, if they have one."

What he pointed out was a sizable college campus, settled at the top after a steep protrusion in the ground. For a lack of a better term, it's similar, and, or, shaped like a downtown area that lives by a developed port: roads, pavement, and buildings slanted uphill at the start from where you stand.

"I would love to take place upon professional grounds. That is if there are any accommodating furnishings," commented Truviet. She then wipes the perspiration off her forehead, "Ugh. Lancer, give me my parasol."

"On it, on it..." replied the addressed personage. As ordered, he takes out a sack from under his mantle, pulling a parasol so that Truviet may take it. "You know, I'm not some living chest or whatnot."

"What are you talking about? Your job is to follow under my rule. Being used to carry my items is expected." With that said, the elegant daughter laughs in an "Ohohoho~" as she goes off to the campus alone. The rest of you follow up.

Luckily, what little of the small center for education provides; Caster begins to construct her territory on a dormitory's roof while Lancer guards the front. You and Truviet search the building— nothing of concern comes up. Unless you missed something.

Plans?
> [ ] Just wait out the day and prepare for any encounter.
> [ ] Propose that Lancer should bait out someone.
> [ ] - Another Option

>>3254197
> [ ] Just wait out the day and prepare for any encounter.

>>3254197
> [ ] - Another Option
Try to learn as much as we can about the situation while Caster sets up.

Spoiler for things we wouldn't know to ask IC:Is there an overseer we need to check in with or is Judas in that role given that he brought us here?

>>3254207
Judas is, as he's the person who has orchestrated this version of the War.

>>3254197
> [X] Just wait out the day and prepare for any encounter. While waiting, investigate the institute and try to figure out living conditions.
Can Caster grow her territory over time? What's the maximum range of her threads when it comes to setting traps? Can she collect information via threads in line with the spider theme?
What does Lancer look like? All the description we've got is that he has a polearm, a mantle, and a bag.

>>3254197
I feel like what I meant by "wait out the day" lines up with >>3254207, for whatever that's worth.

>>3254197
>> [X] Just wait out the day and prepare for any encounter. While waiting, investigate the institute and try to figure out living conditions.
>Can Caster grow her territory over time? What's the maximum range of her threads when it comes to setting traps? Can she collect information via threads in line with the spider theme?
>What does Lancer look like? All the description we've got is that he has a polearm, a mantle, and a bag.

>>3254203
>>3254207
>>3254264>>3254271
>>3254293
> [X] Wait out the day +

• Arachne's territory and, in conjunction, her web-like strands, spans across a range of 30 meters. 100 meters if given enough time. She's aware of what goes on inside her created bounds and can position/manipulate her "web" to her discretion— as seen during her fight against Judas' assassin.

• Lancer appears to be a man in his early 20s; his brown hair slightly grows past his shoulders, alongside hazel-colored eyes that exude a simple calmness. He's a head taller than both you and Truviet, but is still noticeably shorter than Arachne (corrected from "around 160 cm" to "around 185 cm.").
_____

Caster is almost complete with producing her territory's fullest extent. In the meantime, while Lancer is off laying about at the dorm's entrance, you resume the discussion with Truvietianne.

The five other Masters may or may not be in this very city presently. Despite her haughty attitude as a rich girl, she is surprisingly cautious about the situation, wanting to keep her stand here rather than going out to hunt. A product of a sheltered life? You cannot decide if she's actually competent, but Truviet does have a grasp of what she plans for.

Truvietianne soon brought up lunch. Rushing out of the dorm's lobby to fetch Lancer, she goes about her way to satisfy her wants. Apparently, up to this point, her servant's sack that he carries around is magical. A sort of space that can store countless items. Originally, Lancer stated that it's usually for carrying food, but since he's contracted to Truviet now, it has been more than that. Either way, he served you some pretty lavish dishes from the magic bag, sighing once again, saying: "Even my wedding cake, huh?"

> Roll 1d100

Rolled 25 (1d100)

>>3254359