DostHou

Fate/『 』Märchen

Brahelius Strombe
Tokyo, Ginza Skylounge

Brahelius chose not to answer, his focus fully turned up into the night sky, staring with a strange combination of both contempt and contentedness at the moon.

There was nothing but a non-committal hum at Lancer's words before he raised his glass to his face, swirling a bit of the clear drink within his hand, not yet imbibing its contents.

"To answer your question Lancer, I have not yet taken anyone to be my partner. Though the time comes that if I am to continue the legacy entrusted to me, that I will have to take one within the near future."

Taking a sip from his glass, Brahelius peered into his cup, continuing to speak to his servant.

"But truthfully, I would much rather be in the company of a good hotpot rather than a bothersome woman. In my experience, they are often forceful beings who push past anything within their way. They bring nothing but headaches. Anyways Lancer, come closer."

Brahelius gestured to Lancer to come to his side, pointing to his glass.

The Ginza Skylounge was a small stop for their rampage throughout the streets and bars of Tokyo, yet here upon the rooftop of the establishment, Brahelius had carefully woven a bounded field to turn attention away from the small corner Brahelius sequestered himself away in.

"I find myself in a talkative mood Lancer, and within the course of my life, I have learned that my own abilities are lacking. Yet, that does not mean I cannot have some pride within my meager skill!

"Lancer, the World abhors a fantasy. The element we mages know as ether is an illusion the world crushes. It is only within the moment of its ignition that it can accomplish much. So for you Lancer, and for this world, I will show you a fantasy given form.

"Above us hangs the moon. It has been the subject of many a belief, such as that it is an eye of god. These beliefs continue to linger and shape the world we who hold the seat of primates live within. More importantly, and more relatedly, it is also a mirror. This is but one portion of this 'magic trick' I will show you."

Once more motioning to his drink, Brahelius continued with his exposition.

"In Vino Veritas. In wine, truth. All around the world, alcohol and other mind-altering substances carried the property of elevating man's vision, letting us catch glimpse of enlightenment. Though there have been many implements specialized for the use of divination and clairvoyance, at the core of each device they were 'containers', much like the glass I carry within my hand."

Pulling his free arm within his cloak, Brahelius withdrew from it a darkened orb, emitting light from a few holes carefully carved into its surface.

"It is time Lancer, even if we enjoy ourselves in this outing, we cannot deny we are in a war, thus, I will do my duty to support you, so that you can do the same for me."

With a small smirk, Brahelius went about his task, taking a small mouthful of his drink while positioning it so that it can clearly reflect the image of the moon upon its surface.

Within a hazy tone, as if he were lost within a dream, Brahelius incanted.

"Myfi yw llong Sadwrn.

I wyth plasty ar hugain y lleuad rwy'n pledio

Ail-lenwi, Ail-lenwi, Ail-lenwi

Dangoswch y Ffordd i mi!"

Creating a symbolic connection to the moon, Brahelius utilized the properties of alcohol to gaze upon the city of Tokyo, seeking any masters out within the streets of the bright cityscape. Even by mundane means, tracking existences by their relationship to celestial bodies is a simple task. It was really only a matter of seconds before he discovered a wayward master

“Let us go Lancer, I have located a suitable target for us to battle. The night is still long, and I can still drink, but the war will not wait for us Lancer, we must seize victory with our hands lest it slips away.”

@Yukitamas

Fate/『 』Märchen

Brahelius Strombe
Tokyo, Ramen Stand --> Tokyo Streets

Home.

A simple word that conveyed much meaning. For Lancer it was a place of rest and camaraderie. Precious memories of shared times together, each moment binding together a lifetime of experiences.

Such a definition was only slightly out of line with Brahelius' own. With an almost bitter smile, he began sedately picking at his noodles, eating them in an almost somber manner.

"Home, to me, is a place of peril. Of the continuous struggle for improvement, not for myself, but for the legacy left for me, and my descendants. The unending cycle of fate bringing ruin upon my household. Complacency has no place there, for it must be guarded continuously, even if it is ultimately pointless in the end.

Because such a thing is precious. Because to lose yourself in defeat is the same as losing your life and sanity.

Forgive me for seeming so sentimental. But home is where the heart is. Not because of anything like it being where you hold precious memories or anything like that. But because it's the purest expression of self, the essence of a being distilled and collected into one place, separated from the collective identity of mankind."

Picking up his bowl, Brahelius immersed himself within the last vestiges of his meal before cleaning the bowl of its broth, not a single drop remaining.

"That is not to say physical locations do not have their own value. The Strombe family workshop is situated where it is, even with all it's dangers and perils, because of the great advantage it grants us. And I would loathe to pass up a good room in exchange for a much poorer one.

Even in this backwater, I find myself enjoying myself far more then I would at my ancestral home. You asked me if I enjoy such meals at my home did you not? Truthfully, Lancer, often times our pantry would be low on supplies. One of the disadvantaged of living so far away from modern civilization I suppose. We would often have to carefully ration out our supplies before the next shipment reached us.

As a result, I did not have what could be called the most lavish lifestyle."

Peering into the now polished bowl, Brahelius looked sadly into his reflection, eyes far too old to belong to such a young man sitting within his sockets, before a vigor sprang into his pupils.

"But I will not dwell on such things, even if they haunt me still. I had come to this land so I can be rid of that curse, of that unbroken cycle. The moon's bane will conquer no longer once I have won this grand ritual. Finally, only then will I be home.

Only then, will I find peace."

Conviction shined through his eyes, a minuscule crack forming from the strength of his grip upon the bowl.

"Come, Lancer, the night is still young, and there are many more delicacies to try out before the war begins in earnest. We shall return to our homes over the course of this ritual. For you, new comrades and memories. And for me, I will know peace. Or else at least, she never shall.

This I swear on the name of Strombe, Thrice Cursed Moon Excluder!"

Fate/『 』Märchen

Brahelius Strombe
Tokyo, Ramen Stand

Clouds of particulate swirled about the bowl, steam rising from the tense surface hinting at the hidden prize that lurked beneath. A thick, savory aroma filled the air, mingling with the myriad of scents that existed beforehand.

Atop a bed of noodles, three slices of roasted pork rested. Crushed garlic made their way back to the surface, the copious amount of miso providing it a foothold back to the surface of the entire ensemble. Slowly, almost reverently, Brahelius brought his chopsticks to the broth, mixing together the beautifully orchestrated composition of flavor together.

After a few passes of this sacred ritual, he brought together his eating utensils, grasping inbetween them his golden prize, collecting them into a spoon before consuming it.

Extra-firm noodles.

Just as he had ordered.

His frame shuddered, palpable joy filling the air around him. An almost imperceptible tear rolled down his cheek. For but a brief moment, he was able to achieve the feeling of peace. Wondering what his life could have been to just embrace this single moment but for an eternity before it was broken by the accursed image of his sworn arch enemy.

Even on the other side of the world is he still haunted. But no longer will it be.

With gusto, Brahelius devoured his meal. Memories and fantasies of a time free of his burden filling his mind. For that was the reason he came to Japan, to free himself from that abominable cycle of fate.

A lazy glance to his right revealed his champion, his savior, his messiah. From the darkness, he shall come to know light. And the light his champion wields is bright indeed.

Even as the sunset, as the reagents for this great ritual fell into place, he knew no fear. For he will win his grand prize or die trying. Either result freeing him from the nightmare of his waking life.

Fate/『 』Märchen

There's a story to it but it's a bit complicated to say the least.

Fate/『 』Märchen

Brahelius Strombe

Brahelius Strombe

Cursed Moon Excluder

Short Bio/Synopsis:

Even stars sputter out of existence. Their lights, though bright, stop shining eventually. Such a thought has plagued Brahelius for much of his life. Even with sustenance, there comes an end.

Born in a perilous location, for eight generations the Strombe family has situated their workshop as close as they can to the moon as possible, but the location has left much to be desired. As a result, Brahelius has been subject to many outrageous situations that have dulled his sense of normality. After undergoing his customary years at the Clock Tower, he retreated back to his family holdings and sequestered himself away like many magi.

Yet, once the rumors of a backwater Eastern Ritual that could grant any wish, Brahelius packed his bags and belongings to participate, for if his problems could not be solved with methods originating from this land, then surely the far off island of Japan may hold the answer.

Magecraft:

The Strombe family possesses specialized circuits that carry a composition of Concentric. With his magic circuits arrayed within each other, the Strombe takes great care in making sure they synchronize their circuits to that of the solar system. As a result, their magical energy could be said to be that of the heavens above. Combined with their astrology, the Strombe harness this blessing to great effect.

Viewing celestial bodies as something similar to world pillars, the Strombe has reached a level where their magecraft has taken a form similar to middle eastern curse practitioners, utilizing the movements of the heavens as something like a template to mold the world around them. Coincidentally, because of their working with the movements of the skies, rather than the classic elements, they use celestial bodies to classify existences. Brahelius holds the element of Saturn within this paradigm.

Mystic Codes

Azoth Sword: A Mystic Code used as a tool for performing magecraft, amplifying the user's magical energy to assist with spells and strengthen them. Filling it with magical energy allows for it to be utilized as a magic wand at any time to form magic circles and affect physical divine mysteries.

Celestial Dirks: Ritual knives not dissimilar to that of an Azoth Sword. However, each blade has undergone treatments to attune them to specific celestial bodies. 12 for the zodiacs, and seven for the planets themselves. Consecrated or constructed out of sacred metals, suffumigated with scents pleasing to the heavens, animated with the wraith of an individual born under the influence of those holy orbs that orbit the planet. Each and every blade is a vital instrument for the Strombe. Precious ritual blades take the place of planets and stars. Shadows projected from the heavens beaten into the form of knives.

Crushed Velvet (Empty Night RE-enact): A cloak made of some dark fabric that represents the night sky. Bereft of any celestial bodies, it becomes an empty canvas that relies on other tools to achieve anything. However, in conjunction with Celestial Dirks, it becomes a terrifying magic tool. Constructed with a wraith amalgam, contained within the crushed obsidian that lines the cloak, it becomes a high-speed calculation tool that reinterprets the movements of the heavens into magical formulas that it then displays within the inner fabric.

Misc/Other/Trivia

• While Brahelius may hold the title of magus, if his true thoughts were to be revealed to that of his peers, he would be called a heretic for harboring such beliefs. But as one who has cast away any pride in the pursuit of preventing that unavoidable cycle of fate, he would be uncaring of their opinions. A true lunatic.
• If he were to discover the basis of the Holy Grail War laid not within eastern foundations, but of western concepts, he would be most upset and promptly change his wish into that of an obscene amount of wealth.
• His skills in the creation of bounded fields are truly astounding, but his skewed perception of reality has made him view them as nothing but that of a mediocre magus. This is not limited to bounded fields exclusively, but to his magecraft as a whole.
• Likes: Food (Any if available), Being left alone, Fortresses, Peace of Mind, The Moon.
• Dislikes: The color red, Vampires, Long Skirts, Famine, The Moon.

Special Boon: Superior Mystic Code

Boundless Luminescent Lotus: Jokingly referred to as a glorified light bulb, Brahelius has come to a conclusion within his own paradigm, answering a personal question of his with mystical prowess condensed into a physical shell. An endless source of light that fills the vast darkness of the sky. Spearheads of illumination that continuously expands the cosmos. A tool that strengthens the connection between the sky and himself by representing the eternity of the sun with the eternity of the sky. But this is not a Mystic Code that operates on its own. It is a paired existence, it’s sister being but a series of shells with carvings to let out but some of that endless light. Each shell is carved in such a way to represent a night sky. While seemingly unimpressive, such a feat is something to congratulate. It replicates the sky textures of whatever shell represents, trivializing certain restrictions to the Strombe astrology.

Fate/『 』Märchen

Brahelius Strombe

Brahelius Strombe

Cursed Moon Excluder

Short Bio/Synopsis:

Even stars sputter out of existence. Their lights, though bright, stop shining eventually. Such a thought has plagued Brahelius for much of his life. Even with sustenance, there comes an end.

Born in a perilous location, for eight generations the Strombe family has situated their workshop as close as they can to the moon as possible, but the location has left much to be desired. As a result, Brahelius has been subject to many outrageous situations that have dulled his sense of normality. After undergoing his customary years at the Clock Tower, he retreated back to his family holdings and sequestered himself away like many magi.

Yet, once the rumors of a backwater Eastern Ritual that could grant any wish, Brahelius packed his bags and belongings to participate, for if his problems could not be solved with methods originating from this land, then surely the far off island of Japan may hold the answer.

Magecraft:

The Strombe family possesses specialized circuits that carry a composition of Concentric. With his magic circuits arrayed within each other, the Strombe takes great care in making sure they synchronize their circuits to that of the solar system. As a result, their magical energy could be said to be that of the heavens above. Combined with their astrology, the Strombe harness this blessing to great effect.

Viewing celestial bodies as something similar to world pillars, the Strombe has reached a level where their magecraft has taken a form similar to middle eastern curse practitioners, utilizing the movements of the heavens as something like a template to mold the world around them. Coincidentally, because of their working with the movements of the skies, rather than the classic elements, they use celestial bodies to classify existences. Brahelius holds the element of Saturn within this paradigm.

Mystic Codes

Azoth Sword: A Mystic Code used as a tool for performing magecraft, amplifying the user's magical energy to assist with spells and strengthen them. Filling it with magical energy allows for it to be utilized as a magic wand at any time to form magic circles and affect physical divine mysteries.

Celestial Dirks: Ritual knives not dissimilar to that of an Azoth Sword. However, each blade has undergone treatments to attune them to specific celestial bodies. 12 for the zodiacs, and seven for the planets themselves. Consecrated or constructed out of sacred metals, suffumigated with scents pleasing to the heavens, animated with the wraith of an individual born under the influence of those holy orbs that orbit the planet. Each and every blade is a vital instrument for the Strombe. Precious ritual blades take the place of planets and stars. Shadows projected from the heavens beaten into the form of knives.

Crushed Velvet (Empty Night RE-enact): A cloak made of some dark fabric that represents the night sky. Bereft of any celestial bodies, it becomes an empty canvas that relies on other tools to achieve anything. However, in conjunction with Celestial Dirks, it becomes a terrifying magic tool. Constructed with a wraith amalgam, contained within the crushed obsidian that lines the cloak, it becomes a high-speed calculation tool that reinterprets the movements of the heavens into magical formulas that it then displays within the inner fabric.

Misc/Other/Trivia

• While Brahelius may hold the title of magus, if his true thoughts were to be revealed to that of his peers, he would be called a heretic for harboring such beliefs. But as one who has cast away any pride in the pursuit of preventing that unavoidable cycle of fate, he would be uncaring of their opinions. A true lunatic.
• If he were to discover the basis of the Holy Grail War laid not within eastern foundations, but of western concepts, he would be most upset and promptly change his wish into that of an obscene amount of wealth.
• His skills in the creation of bounded fields are truly astounding, but his skewed perception of reality has made him view them as nothing but that of a mediocre magus. This is not limited to bounded fields exclusively, but to his magecraft as a whole.
• Likes: Food (Any if available), Being left alone, Fortresses, Peace of Mind, The Moon.
• Dislikes: The color red, Vampires, Long Skirts, Famine, The Moon.

Special Boon: Superior Mystic Code

Boundless Luminescent Lotus: Jokingly referred to as a glorified light bulb, Brahelius has come to a conclusion within his own paradigm, answering a personal question of his with mystical prowess condensed into a physical shell. An endless source of light that fills the vast darkness of the sky. Spearheads of illumination that continuously expands the cosmos. A tool that strengthens the connection between the sky and himself by representing the eternity of the sun with the eternity of the sky. But this is not a Mystic Code that operates on its own. It is a paired existence, it’s sister being but a series of shells with carvings to let out but some of that endless light. Each shell is carved in such a way to represent a night sky. While seemingly unimpressive, such a feat is something to congratulate. It replicates the sky textures of whatever shell represents, trivializing certain restrictions to the Strombe astrology.

Fate/Abyss

Seems interesting. I'll probably play as a master but depending on my upcoming schedule I may not be able to participate.

Fate/Blind Logos

Canal District, Arrondissement 10, In Front of (the former) McDonalds

@ItMeGritty @KoL @floodtalon

---

In the blink of an eye, the enemy Servant had disappeared as waves of mana swept from them. Before Eichhörnchen could fully step out of the establishment. It didn't take him looking behind him to notice the franchise had been completely demolished, the sounds of destruction were enough of an indication of that.

Instead, he busied himself with his newfound predicament. That being his tumble through the air. But a simple application of floating magecraft took care of that for him as he corrected his course and set himself down on the ground. Unfortunately, it would seem that the destruction of the McDonalds behind him had sent a barrage of rubble into the air, slightly injuring Eichhörnchen as he floated his way back down to the ground

As soon as he touched down, his hands reached up to his face, securing his shades, which had miraculously stayed upon his face, between his fingers.

With a flourish, he brandished his Mystic Eye Killers off his face, surging magical energy to his eyes while leaning on his cane, the impact of his new injury clearly visible.

"Allfather, grant me sight."

Steadily making his way over to Madhisi, tucking away his Mystic Eye Killers into his pockets.

From his eyes alone it became apparent he felt a degree of anger at the sheer irresponsibility displayed by the opposing master. To expose mystery to the world at large is the greatest sin a magus could attempt to do. And even worse, if he were to win, this would mean he would have to pay for the damages, reducing his income and prize.

Dancing beams of light shone behind his eyelids, the image of the moon and it's lustrous surface awakening the burning feeling of power. Pain danced across his body, a familiar friend that had accompanied him throughout his life.

Leaning against his cane for support, he began to straighten his back and began to cast a curse of self-healing upon himself, feeding it magical energy to heal himself from his own non-substantial injuries.

In the back of his mind, he was composing several suitable punishments against the philistine who had decided to engage in a public space.

Fate/Blind Logos

Canal District, Arondissement 10, McDonalds Front Door

@ItMeGritty

---

The sheer cheek offered by his own servant broke through the harsh facade of Eichhörnchen, who offered a small smirk before schooling his features once more.

Absently looking forward while kneading his left arm, he responded to his servant's concerns with confidence befitting either the greatest of men or the most senseless fool to have ever lived.

"I may not have the personal experience of rushing out to the battlefields, but I have trust in my own talent and the work of those before me."

Turning to meet his servant's eyes, arms hanging by his side, hands resting upon the cane in front of him, he once more began to espouse words of great conviction.

"And I am not alone, faithless I may be in your strength, I would be remiss to dismiss your skill. Our opponents are those shining pillars of humanity, and their partners, the earth crawling magi. It would be nothing but pure arrogance upon my own part to think that I may match them alone."

In an affectionate gesture, he reached for Lancers' shoulder, a sign of trust if it were to interpret as anything.

"It is why I have summoned you. There may be a time where we shall need to seek allies, but tonight, we shall seize the initiative, whilst we still have the chance.

"Besides," he interjects, "I'm sure you have noticed yourself no?"

Holding his hand up, the sight of his command seals reacting.

"It is time to welcome our most bothersome guest. Really, how boorish, and here I thought the competition would have more sense then attempting to engage in front of the ignorant masses."

@KoL @Floodtalon

Fate/Blind Logos

Canal District, Arondissement 10, McDonalds

@ItMeGritty

---

A steady sound of wood descending upon porcelain echoed throughout the sparsely populated room, it's residents have long gotten over the peculiarity of a seemingly young man relying upon a walking aid to get around. They could not have been aware of the relatively advanced age of the wielder of such an implement from his outer appearance, but within the magical community the age of 48 was but a blink of an eye and those who chose to conceal their age was a nonsubstantial percentage of practitioners.

His steady pace betrayed his thoughts not, his stony face kept in an almost perpetual grimace as he crossed the room.

170. A curious number not deprived of meaning. In the mystical community assigning meaning and power was not uncommon, Numerology was a popular field of study in itself. Descended from the belief Pythagaros held within the "practicality" of numbers, then spun off into a myriad of beliefs, all adapted to the systems they have attached themselves to. Prominent examples include the 72 Names of God which the Kabbalists utilize, to the even the I Ching of the Chinese.

How auspicious it would be then, for him to have received 170. One added to seven created eight, eight was the number of success. The influence of zero indicated the support of a higher being. 170 also encompassed the complete number of names Odin was said to possess.

It would seem that even the stars have aligned to hand Eichhörnchen victory.

Having the end of his journey, he cleansed his mind in order to complete the task required of him.

"170 would be I."

Eichhörnchen responds smoothly. Taking his tray with nary a word, he began his treck back, ignoring whatever response might have come forth. Stopping before his designated seat, he sets down his bounty before seating himself.

Unwrapping his meal, his shades hid his gaze, yet there was an unmistakable sense he was looking to his acquaintance across him.

Silence passed, another bite was taken.

Seconds pass, the audible sound of his chewing filled the awkwardness between them.

Until finally, he swallowed, savoring the crispness of the shredded lettuce. The ripe juices of the tomato running through his mouth, melding perfectly with the toasted buns slathered in special sauce. Cheese barely melting, it's viscousness holding together the unrecognizable mash that the burger became.

Almost the pinnacle of perfection.

Almost.

But it was not the time to pursue perfection. Not yet at least, that comes after what he had come here for.

Setting down his Big Mac, Eichhörnchen finally began to speak to his partner for the first time he had entered the McDonalds.

"I'm going, to be frank here Lancer. I have no high hopes for us as a team to be quite honest. Your identity is an obscure one, and while that may be to our advantage, I have no doubt that the others will have summoned legendary heroes of this continent instead of some backwater in the Pacific. Here you are, without the support of the fame you have gained on that island."

He paused for a moment as if to let that sink in.

"I got no confidence in you, but to be honest I don't really give a damn. As long as you can hold your own and distract their servants, I'm confident in my own ability to overcome the others, and if you do happen to take one out, hey, good on you buddy. So let's go and I'll win the grail for both of us capiche?"

Finished with his scathing diatribe he returned back to his meal. Finishing up he rose back up and motioned for the door.

"Now let's go out and kick some poor fuckers ass."