Sageage

Fate/ Fatal Fake Lapse

False Caster

Ahahahaha! Applaud, applaud! That time we've wished for has come. All sins will be forgiven, all sins will be made.

Yes, to bring that time, to bring him here... This world has need for nothing but God, and yet this world lacks for nothing but God. Let us turn seven into five, evil into virtue. Fake shall become real.

Name
Nicholas Stephan (Children's Crusade. A Gathering of 60002 wraiths)

Class
Caster
Attribute
Man
Gender
Male
Alignment
Neutral Good

Personality

An absolutely pure child. A child who could see into the hearts of men, and who admired God.

A child betrayed by a godless world, an age where miracles were no longer a thing.
magecraft
If only if he did not have his talent with words or the ability to wrought fake miracles. If only if he had not been learned enough and smart enough to speak as one with knowledge of scripture.

An unbelievably bright child, an unbelievably devout child.

His life perhaps is proof that blessings can easily be the grounds for curses. That brightness indeed is what gathered moths to a fall.

Yet even with a bitter end that heart cannot break so easily. A corruption of that sweet purity has occurred, yet he has not lost himself despite the swarming resentment, pain and evil of countless evil spirits making up “him”. That iron will, that unshakable devotion was forced to choose its admiration or the world.

Naturally it chose its admiration. So his view on God would not shatter he instead turned to resent and curse the world.

History

Once there was a boy who saw that the people around him desired something.

Once there was a boy who believed in the power of God. In his greatness, in his goodness. A pure love, a pure belief. Ah, this god is amazing, this god is infallible. It was the mixture of admiration, of that like a child looking upon their parents, of that of a devout zealot looking upon their idol.

Such things mixed would only bring absolute belief. An unwavering belief that could not compromise. So strong and yet so kind. From the moment he was born, the moment he looked upon the idea of God with such admiration perhaps his fate was sealed.

The truth is hazy, whether it is Nicholas of Cologne, or Stephen of Cloyes who is the true tale of the Children's Crusade. But does it matter?

One day a child talked with the “savior. “ Although perhaps one should say that in truth what he spoke with was the hearts of people. The savior they had in their hearts, the savior they gave thanks to and held hopes for. “This world has yet to see true peace. The crusades and wars of the faithful hold good intentions but the way of God does not hold bloodshed.” The savior turned his back on battle, and yet encouraged the conquering of the ones who stood between the world and utopia. What people truly wanted was a world with no worry or hatred. A beautiful, noble and simple thing.

He could be the one to do it. He could be the one to bring forth the resolution all wanted. Everyone wanted salvation, everyone wanted peace and for the times of the savior to come. That was why they believed, that was why they prayed. The wish that all devout Christians, that all the people around him held in their breast.

A promised land, a promised miracle.

He could be the one to bring it forth.

So he gathered those wishes and journeyed to the land of sands. The children, on a similar standing with him, who were less guarded with their dreams and wishes, yet to experience the harshness of reality, the evils that God was said to protect them from were the easiest to convince. Yet his talent went beyond that. Grown men and women. Many followed, and many more gave their approval. Showing off miracles, speaking to their hearts. Only those whose dreams were deviant from man, or those who had completely given up unable to feel anything from his preachings.

Yet there was no promised miracle, no promised salvation.

Ah perhaps his mistake was that he thought of it as his act. Even if he brought the people together, even if he had managed to bring forth thousands of other pure souls… in the end it all hinged on God’s miracle. Perhaps if he had been a bit more eloquent, perhaps if they managed to get boats faster. No, to hope for the help of God in parting the oceans was his mistake...

Unable to reach the holy lands, unable to defeat the ocean and world, let alone convert the muslims. The crusade of children broke apart to human needs and evil.

Merchants swindled young ones and took them in, promising voyage but instead trading them into bondage for coin. Men and women betrayed and abandoned each other out of need as their doubts crept in to call them back after a flight of fancy in which they decided to believe in dreams. Those who were shipwrecked and never made it to the sands, those who turned back and found the wilds their grave, unable to be saved even as they threw away even their ideals for their lives. Those who starved, those who perished from misfortune.

The crusade born out of a desire for peace ended in death, misery and evil.

Looking upon what had come out of his life he could only feel one thing. Hatred.

Ah, was it towards himself? Was it towards mankind and their inability to keep to their truest desires, brought low by evil? No, what he hates was this world that did not have God’s miracles.

If only if he could truly see one.

Weapon
Nothing

Parameters
STR: E
CON: C
AGI: D
MGI: B+
LCK: E

Class Skills

Territory Creation: E

As one who wandered, never truly reaching the promised land, nor taking a utopia. Caster is a heroic spirit who never took roost or made a workshop.

Beyond bounded fields like normal and establishing a workshop swifter than usual like most casters, no special privilege is afforded to Caster.

Item Creation: C

Usage of magecraft and magical energy to create items. While it is called Item Creation the abilities of Caster in this regard are primarily due to his class container. That fact combined with the nature of hero he is causes it to be more along the lines of an ability that shapes (false) miracles into cursed items. Items replicating the common tools of the church, and mystic codes that are shaped by a miracle in scripture are possible. However due to the fundamental nature of Caster the weapons impose a evergrowing karmic burden and backlash upon use. The miracles wrought by mankind are but pale imitations of the divine and loving aid of he in heaven. There is no fruition in such a path and only tragedy leads at the end of their use.

In short, what he can create can be surprisingly useful, but potentially dangerous too.

Personal Skills

The Children’s Crusade (Incitement Crusade): B++

An ability and unfortunate existence that’s been sublimated into part of one’s existence. A composite skill using the base of Caster’s ability to incite others, the nature of that incitement and his tragedy.

What should be the acquisition of words and gestures to lead the masses in a powerful mental attack, or the sharing of one’s religious fervor is colored by the misfortune of the Children’s Crusade. Jealousy, hatred, and lamentation are all collected without fault or ill intent, the faults and lack of miracles in the world given a target to blame, the anti-hero offered as a sacrificial lamb to those who live in a world untouched by God’s miracles.

The true nature of this incitement is to touch upon the unspoken desire, the wishes lying in the hearts of people that they do not stretch their arm towards. Passion, ideals and hopes are brought out from hiding. Yet the world is cruel, and not receptive to utopias or childish perfect dreams.

Like a devilish tempter, the child who brings out such things in the end only brings tragedy as no one is strong enough to protect such pure desires when they are exposed and brought out of hiding. It’s just how it is. But to acknowledge the world to be so is too cruel. So someone must be blamed.

Caster is a nexus of malignant information, misfortune and grudges, and is able to bring out powerful mental attacks. An additional + modifier is present when it is incitement based on one’s secret desires, and most purest dreams. At that level it exceeds a mental attack, and becomes an attack on one’s dreams.

One could say there is a resemblance in how it deals with the protected parts of the spirit in the medical software of a certain Buddhist Nun.

In truth this is not the story of a heroic little boy miraculously blessed with power and gathering the people to take a Utopia. This is a story of the ruin and sorrow that abandoning life to chase dreams brings.

Protection of the Faith (Masses):A+++

A skill that represents those who devote themselves or sacrifice themselves to a religious view. A sort of “divine protection” although in truth it is not a form of protection brought by an external source, but rather one that comes from one’s faith and beliefs. AN absoluteness of body and mind that cannot be shaken. However with a high rank abnormalities in the personality occur.

It goes without saying that Caster would have such a skill at a high rank. But to look at it further Caster is composed of thousands upon thousands of pure-hearted believers. Even in their resentment at the betrayal of their hopes, they are still those who are devout Christians. What's most frightening perhaps is that Caster has not only kept their ego and personality due to his own faith, but has incorporated the faith of those masses into his own.

This resentment and devoutness makes Caster a nexus of regret and yet continuing belief. What could this be called, but malignant information?

Demon Creation: C

The creation of demons. An ability derived from his nature as a heroic spirit. Rather than putting shape to mankind’s wishes, it is more akin to putting shape to God's miracles as people wish for.

In a sense it is also similar to the evocation of the Magic King who brought forth the 72 demon gods. Titling and giving shape. The form of the demons that he brings forth could be said to be a false sort of angel.

There are a number of similarities with the concept of utilization of Angels in the modern magecraft of the 21th century.

A fake saint creating fake angels with fake miracles. Indeed, the only one who truly has the power to change the world is-

Noble Phantasm

Name: God Is Heaven - All The Right In The World
Title: Fraughtless Mortal Life Without Miracles
Rank: C
NP Type: Anti-Unit
Range: -
Maximum Number of Targets: 60001 (1)
Description

The only one who has the power to wrought miracles is God. All things that are good and miraculous are simply small shards of power passed down from him. The source of power of a saint is not themselves, the origin of all things wonderful is the one above all.

Ah, even the most devoted and faithful are lambs that can be misled. The heretical group that is an exception among exceptions. The Eighth Sacrament and the 120th Cardinal.

But Caster’s life has proven that no miracles truly exist outside of that of God. A saint’s powers did not bring peace. The wishes and hopes of thousands were betrayed, their lives taken due to the cruelty of the world of mortals.

The tragedy that is the Children's Crusade denies the status of men and gods. Only the one above all, the creator himself holding the right, and ability to change the world.

A form of tradition protection. Recreation of miracles, and miracles not originating directly from the God of the Universal Church is not something that interacts with Caster or enacts interference. Even the magecraft of saints and priests are denied, just as how the children were denied by the promise of a saint and crusade.

However, this protection only applies to Caster's body himself, and not any of his creations.

A powerless child protected by the miracles of God. Indeed, the battle with Caster is one of conquering the angels brought forth, and overcoming that false power of God.

Fate/ Fatal Fake Lapse

Do we need to submit a Master as well?

@ItMeGritty

I believe so.

Fate/ Fatal Fake Lapse

Lawful Ζύες

Ymir’s gate? Something like that? I don’t have the time. I already have enough work to use up a handful of lifetimes with my other duties. If father wanted me to be a magus then he wouldn’t have up and died so quickly. A duty like the root is something I’ll leave to my children.”

Evadrande Laelapolus

True/False Standing: Undecided. Potential for either

Character

Cursed

Alias/Nickname/Title: Aegis, Absolute Smite, Sky-Sniper. Ζύες
Gender
Female
Age
59
Height/Weight
165 cm, 74 km
Birthplace
England
Command Seal
A crosshair with a trio of shooting stars that coalesce into a golden spiral into its middle.

Personality

A busy-body of sorts. A person who enjoys proper behavior and sticks her nose into things that she can change. While not so crass as to put her hands into things out of her own jurisdiction, she’s the sort who is easy to move with a plea into doing more than she actually needs to.

Forte/Likes
Proper conduct, adherence to contracts, responsible research, success as the result of good polish.

Weaknesses/Dislikes
Irresponsibility, Barthomeloi Lorelei, Barthomeloi Lorelei, and Barthomeloi Lorelei. those who focus in on an obsession too much. There’s a difference between passion, obligation and losing one’s self!

Natural Talents
Sniping, math, bossing people around, being liked by people under her, being hated by people opposing her.
Natural Enemy: Barthomeloi Lorelei, Scathach, Trambelio Faction

Magical Details

Magical Attributes

Synchronization

Different from the synchronization of a certain demon hunter family. The attribute of synchronization is that which aligns two different things to a similar wavelength. Similar things change to become the “same” or that which flows together. Different things become something that work in conjunction. In particular with the Laelapolus it is especially good at aligning the magical energy of multiple individuals, even from different families.

Reinforcement

Reinforcement, also known as strengthening. The principles of enhancing and elevating the meaning of something's existence via passing magical energy through. While something such as reinforcing one's body is something so simple even a Frame would be expected to manage to an extent, to become a specialist and master of strengthening that can enhance anything is nearly impossible.

It should go without saying the various means that it applies to the Laelapolus magecraft.

Origin
Scrutinize

Elemental Alignment
Fire, Air

Magic Circuits
A
Circuit Quantity
B
Circuit Quality
A
Circuit Composition
Normal

Magic Circuit Switch
A number of tones aligning and tuning into harmony

Magic Crest Age
Seventh Generation

Magus Rank
Fes: Festival (Inflation due to her position, relations and the importance of the Laelapolus. However in talent and her current maturity she could be called close to Fes. All in all a frightening girl.)

Family History

The Laelapolus are a line that deviated from the greater goal of chasing after the root. In a sense they are a consequence of the development of the political structure of the clock tower, and the infrastructure that supports it.

A family that came from the Mediterranean. In the past their goal was to attain the perspective of the one who rules over the pantheon and looks over the world. To attain the perspective of one who rules over and dictates the order formed by those who represent the world and natural phenomena (gods) was their goal to reach the truth.

However at one point the Laelapolus came to take on the stewardship of a labyrinth in the northern parts of the British continent. While this position heavily increased their position and value, it also came at the cost of a need to constantly deal with others. Eventually they came to work with the department of Law. The role of the Laelapolus aligned with the department’s law of bringing stability and order to the Clock Tower.

Further to solidify their position they gathered and raised a corps, a group of magi picked and gathered to make a force that could properly hold the position of authority over the labyrinth, both over those within and those who wish to enter. This force, the Bronze Workers Corps (alternatively known by the name, Talos Gaze), also took on a meaning as something to collect on and enforce legislative matters that have been violated. The jurisdiction of the department was certainly absolute, and while no sane magus would contest or cause strife… In practice having a force was something that came to be necessary at times.

It’s also been said that the Corps sometimes offers their services as mercenaries of a sort. Primarily for the purposes of cultivating a presence and allowing members to gain experience. It isn’t surprising then that beyond their role they’ve attained the unflattering nickname of debt collectors, or hired guns.

In a sense the Laelapolus have become a family very important to the ongoings of the various magi part of the Clock Tower. To ensure a smooth operation of inter-organizational relations and deals, along with providing a grounds where much needed reagents and existences reside.

Biography

The seventh generation Laelapolus. Evadrande took to the path of her family with ease. While there were some in their family who mixed the pursuit of a magus and the management of their duties as the responsibility of a Laelapolus, Evandrande was one who focused more on the world around her. As far as everyone could see around her, she wasn’t one that cared for things that did not affect people's lives.

Further pushing her to her set of values was the early death of her father who was the previously active Laelapolus head. Needing to succeed her father and stabilize the trust in the Laelapolus and the corps, she delved heavily into her studies and embarked on more practical tests and uses of her legacy, swiftly taking to the duties she inherited. But perhaps what even more shaped her was the presence, or rather, lack of, of another certain woman.

The Vice Director, the woman hailing from the Barthomeloi family.

The woman that despite holding the position of vice director goes off to hunt like a blade of the church. That crusade that could only be called a personal interest that was the strange obsession of the family, leaving the Clock Tower without the administrator and seat of authority that should rightfully reign in it.

In her work to solidify her position and her time at the Clock Tower, Evadrande ended up substituting for the work that The Queen left behind during her length Dead Apostle hunts. Eventually coming to be seen as a young girl that unpleasant legislative work can be dumped onto, and also as a more reliable correspondence, her position became more concrete at the cost of being one who cleaned up after the messes of others. And so the Laelapolus that deal with the affairs of the Clocktower as a organization kept at a distance as a force to fear became something more intertwined intimately.

The militant woman that grew out of this weight became to be known as the Aegis of the Tower. In a sense she succeeded way beyond the expectations placed on her. But she sometimes wonders if she’s gone down the wrong path.

Really, where did it all start going wrong?

Magecraft

General Magecraft + Ect

It goes without saying that Evadrande has the proper education of a magus, along with the skills and magecraft knowledge fitting for one who is feared by other mages as a huntress and fighter. What is necessary and common sense for her status is a given!~

Starmine and Starbow

A form of nature interference based on a mental image. The vision held by Evadrande, and cultivated by the Laelapolus is that of a bow. The form of bolts, and powerful blasts are often which come to mind. But to Evadrande who saw her father utilize a curious sort of archery in the past, her image is most comparable to flowing ribbons of gold.

The base that is added to by the refinement and magecraft of the Laelapolus.

Thunderbolt Creation

The creation of “thunderbolts”. In other words the replication of the weapon of the Skyfather.

An “arrow” of magical energy given grounding through the concept of Zeus and formed through the formula of Arges (Brightness) Brontes (Thunder) Steropes (Lightning). The very base is a shot of magical energy that smites down the foe, however various loadouts and specialized shots can be created via alteration to the magical formula. To begin with, this magecraft is not about shooting the thunderbolts, but rather creating the thunderbolt. In a sense they are both the Skyfather who wields the weapon, and the cyclops who creates. The meaning of the thunderbolt as a weapon is that it punishes and smites. Combining with the act of forging means that it is well suited to being formed as a variety of specific specialized shots.

Of course it is worth discussing the meaning of the thunderbolts, and how it relates to the meaning of the creation process.

Mighty weapons of the greatest authority to smite those who transgress and violate. The place of a thunderbolt as that which represents divine authority, cosmic order, and the punishment to those that defy it is heavily ingrained in various cultures. A thunderbolt is a weapon to destroy and remove that which should not be, to punish acts that must not be.

The removal of impurities from society and the world.

The act of smithing is shaping a weapon, of removing impurities from the material and rendering it a pure, strengthened existence.

The process to create the weapon is the same as the purpose of the weapon.

The abilities of the Laelapolus could be said to be similar in effect to some disciplines of Alchemy as a result of the potential in refining, forging, and purging. Whether it’s processing and creating something, or striking down something. Impurities, both physical and not can be burned away.

Combined with the Laelapolus talent at analyzing and synchronizing magical energy...

Mystic Lock

The creation of Mystic Locks, a lock tied to the wavelength of one's magical energy, making it impossible to open by any other. A talent of the Laelopolus with their talent at dealing with the flow of magical energy, and synchronization trait. What would normally be a very difficult construct has become a staple for the Laelopolus, who are able to not only create them with greater ease, but also utilize them with more flexibility.

A lock that functions as a beacon, a lock that synchronizes with a cast spell. Various methods in utilizing a lock placed on targets and objects are a core to Evadrande’s repertoire.

It can be said that the talents of mystic locks and synchronization are that which allows the corps to reach its true value as an organization.

Greek Constellations (Talos Gaze)

The utilization of the constellations and heavens in magic. Utilizing their meanings, utilizing their positions and relations, and using them as guidance.

In the way of the Laelapolus their main use is the eponymous Talos Gaze that the corps take their name from. In that discipline, rather than focusing on the usage of the constellations as a guidance or determiner of fate, they are used to help elevate one’s viewpoint into that of a smiter, of one whose eyes are in Heaven. The viewpoint of a god cannot be attained, but something similar for the purposes of being that which punishes can be obtained.

If mortal men cannot navigate the world with their eyes only, then by turning to the presence of the stars and using their shine, even the formless dark oceans can be explored.

Someday perhaps the Laelapolus will achieve that overlooking view that is one half of the key to the end of their path.

Greek Constellations

Of course beyond the Talos Gaze, the various meanings of the constellations hold great power.

The home of those who are given immortality and peace after death. The ones that circle the Celestial Axis (Earth). Their position and overaching meaning can be utilized for various spells.

Most commonly, Evadrande evokes the trine of fire, Sagitarius, Leo, and Aries. The natural form of a trine as a harmonious natural flow, and the unit of three fitting into the three-step process of the Cyclops helps form a further relation that fits well with her magecraft.

Mystic Codes

Monófoto dimiourgós Κύκλωπας
Light
One-Lens Creator Cyclops

An eye-patch mystic code that helps with the process of the iconic magecraft of the Bronze Workers Corps. While mystic codes that work on the same principles are distributed to the other members, as the current Aegis and the heir to the Laelapolus the quality of her Κύκλωπας is beyond compare. A high-quality mystic code that’s an heirloom of the family, it helps facilitate the analysis of magical energy, the calculations needed for formulas and shots, and grounds the act of replicating the “creations of the Cyclops”.

In a sense one becomes closer to the giants that created the arms of the gods, however this wisdom gained is also similar to the idea prevalent in many mythological cycles throughout the world. Most notably that of the great god Odin who sacrificed an eye for wisdom. Furthermore the eyes are the symbol of perception, and the holder of great power and clairvoyance. To seal it off then is to sacrifice that perception that sees through the world to instead focus it on one sole thing. A single eye that looks only upon the light it wroughts.

Magical Amulet

A standard sort of magical amulet that rejects magical energy. Equivalent to a D rank in Magic Resistance.

Talos Gaze Uniform

A set of protective formalwear weaved together out of special cloth, hide and magical energy, similar to that worn by magi when they venture into Labyrinths or conduct other operations at a higher level.

Protects against interference at a rank of C on the magecraft scale. Particularly meant against, and efficient against physical interference. Its defense goes beyond what is covered physically, extending throughout the entire body. Furthermore it stabilizes and protects the senses against any sudden change or environment. Combined with her Cyclops it also therefore aids in the safe processing of overwhelming amounts of information as magi at times deal with.

Finally a set of Quintessence batteries (made with mercury, salt, and sulfur) are part of the uniform, filled with magical energy that can be discharged by Evadrande to form an emergency shield against curses.

The difference is that of what a researcher wears in special occasions, and the dress of a combatant. Although if one were to ask Evadrande. It is more something that is worn during social occasions, rituals, and a hunt. The true battle attire of the Talos Corp, and therefore her true might, is something that was not brought for this ritual.

Basic Traveling/Outing Kit

A set of magical energy potions, healing potions and a few antidotes made from things back from home. In a sense a magical first aid kit. Although she doesn't seem to believe it'll really be needed. One has to be responsible and be the one to have things like that.

Non-Magecraft Abilities and Items

Has a good eye for photography, composition of shots and layout. Her ability at archery would be at a level to be called a genius that doesn’t miss.

No matter how you look at it, isn’t that just saying she’s a good sniper?

Extremely good at running through crowds and navigating through traffic with minimal reduction of speed.

Extremely good at avoiding the booby-trapped treat in a box of prank/joke jelly beans.

Is very punctual about monetary transactions. Apparently mentioning the debt of the Greeks is an easy way to get on her bad side.

Good at biking, but prefers scooters. Has used skateboards before even.

Carries around 1500 pounds worth in liquid funds. If one were to compare it to the funds of the modern day, with inflation that would be around 50,000! A sizable allowance or sure.

Fate/ Fatal Fake Lapse

But theres no second lancer?

Fate/ Fatal Fake Lapse

Lawful Ζύες

Ymir’s gate? Something like that? I don’t have the time. I already have enough work to use up a handful of lifetimes with my other duties. If father wanted me to be a magus then he wouldn’t have up and died so quickly. A duty like the root is something I’ll leave to my children.”

Evadrande Laelapolus

True/False Standing: Undecided. Potential for either

Character

Cursed

Alias/Nickname/Title: Aegis, Absolute Smite, Sky-Sniper. Ζύες
Gender
Female
Age
59
Height/Weight
165 cm, 74 km
Birthplace
England
Command Seal
A crosshair with a trio of shooting stars that coalesce into a golden spiral into its middle.

Personality

A busy-body of sorts. A person who enjoys proper behavior and sticks her nose into things that she can change. While not so crass as to put her hands into things out of her own jurisdiction, she’s the sort who is easy to move with a plea into doing more than she actually needs to.

Forte/Likes
Proper conduct, adherence to contracts, responsible research, success as the result of good polish.

Weaknesses/Dislikes
Irresponsibility, Barthomeloi Lorelei, Barthomeloi Lorelei, and Barthomeloi Lorelei. those who focus in on an obsession too much. There’s a difference between passion, obligation and losing one’s self!

Natural Talents
Sniping, math, bossing people around, being liked by people under her, being hated by people opposing her.
Natural Enemy: Barthomeloi Lorelei, Scathach, Trambelio Faction

Magical Details

Magical Attributes: Synchronization

Different from the synchronization of a certain demon hunter family. The attribute of synchronization is that which aligns two different things to a similar wavelength. Similar things change to become the “same” or that which flows together. Different things become something that work in conjunction. In particular with the Laelapolus it is especially good at aligning the magical energy of multiple individuals, even from different families.

Origin
Scrutinize

Elemental Alignment
Fire, Air

Magic Circuits
A
Circuit Quantity
B
Circuit Quality
A
Circuit Composition
Normal

Magic Circuit Switch
A number of tones aligning and tuning into harmony

Magic Crest Age
Seventh Generation

Magus Rank
Fes: Festival (Inflation due to her position, relations and the importance of the Laelapolus. However in talent and her current maturity she could be called close to Fes. All in all a frightening girl.)

Family History

The Laelapolus are a line that deviated from the greater goal of chasing after the root. In a sense they are a consequence of the development of the political structure of the clock tower, and the infrastructure that supports it.

A family that came from the Mediterranean. In the past their goal was to attain the perspective of the one who rules over the pantheon and looks over the world. To attain the perspective of one who rules over and dictates the order formed by those who represent the world and natural phenomena (gods) was their goal to reach the truth.

However at one point the Laelapolus came to take on the stewardship of a labyrinth in the northern parts of the British continent. While this position heavily increased their position and value, it also came at the cost of a need to constantly deal with others. Eventually they came to work with the department of Law. The role of the Laelapolus aligned with the department’s law of bringing stability and order to the Clock Tower.

Further to solidify their position they gathered and raised a corps, a group of magi picked and gathered to make a force that could properly hold the position of authority over the labyrinth, both over those within and those who wish to enter. This force, the Bronze Workers Corps (alternatively known by the name, Talos Gaze), also took on a meaning as something to collect on and enforce legislative matters that have been violated. The jurisdiction of the department was certainly absolute, and while no sane magus would contest or cause strife… In practice having a force was something that came to be necessary at times.

It’s also been said that the Corps sometimes offers their services as mercenaries of a sort. Primarily for the purposes of cultivating a presence and allowing members to gain experience. It isn’t surprising then that beyond their role they’ve attained the unflattering nickname of debt collectors, or hired guns.

In a sense the Laelapolus have become a family very important to the ongoings of the various magi part of the Clock Tower. To ensure a smooth operation of inter-organizational relations and deals, along with providing a grounds where much needed reagents and existences reside.

Biography

The seventh generation Laelapolus. Evadrande took to the path of her family with ease. While there were some in their family who mixed the pursuit of a magus and the management of their duties as the responsibility of a Laelapolus, Evandrande was one who focused more on the world around her. As far as everyone could see around her, she wasn’t one that cared for things that did not affect people's lives.

Further pushing her to her set of values was the early death of her father who was the previously active Laelapolus head. Needing to succeed her father and stabilize the trust in the Laelapolus and the corps, she delved heavily into her studies and embarked on more practical tests and uses of her legacy, swiftly taking to the duties she inherited. But perhaps what even more shaped her was the presence, or rather, lack of, of another certain woman.

The Vice Director, the woman hailing from the Barthomeloi family.

The woman that despite holding the position of vice director goes off to hunt like a blade of the church. That crusade that could only be called a personal interest that was the strange obsession of the family, leaving the Clock Tower without the administrator and seat of authority that should rightfully reign in it.

In her work to solidify her position and her time at the Clock Tower, Evadrande ended up substituting for the work that The Queen left behind during her length Dead Apostle hunts. Eventually coming to be seen as a young girl that unpleasant legislative work can be dumped onto, and also as a more reliable correspondence, her position became more concrete at the cost of being one who cleaned up after the messes of others. And so the Laelapolus that deal with the affairs of the Clocktower as a organization kept at a distance as a force to fear became something more intertwined intimately.

The militant woman that grew out of this weight became to be known as the Aegis of the Tower. In a sense she succeeded way beyond the expectations placed on her. But she sometimes wonders if she’s gone down the wrong path.

Really, where did it all start going wrong?

Magecraft

General Magecraft + Ect

It goes without saying that Evadrande has the proper education of a magus, along with the skills and magecraft knowledge fitting for one who is feared by other mages as a huntress and fighter. What is necessary and common sense for her status is a given!~

Starmine and Starbow

A form of nature interference based on a mental image. The vision held by Evadrande, and cultivated by the Laelapolus is that of a bow. The form of bolts, and powerful blasts are often which come to mind. But to Evadrande who saw her father utilize a curious sort of archery in the past, her image is most comparable to flowing ribbons of gold.

The base that is added to by the refinement and magecraft of the Laelapolus.

Thunderbolt Creation

The creation of “thunderbolts”. In other words the replication of the weapon of the Skyfather.

An “arrow” of magical energy given grounding through the concept of Zeus and formed through the formula of Arges (Brightness) Brontes (Thunder) Steropes (Lightning). The very base is a shot of magical energy that smites down the foe, however various loadouts and specialized shots can be created via alteration to the magical formula. To begin with, this magecraft is not about shooting the thunderbolts, but rather creating the thunderbolt. In a sense they are both the Skyfather who wields the weapon, and the cyclops who creates. The meaning of the thunderbolt as a weapon is that it punishes and smites. Combining with the act of forging means that it is well suited to being formed as a variety of specific specialized shots.

Of course it is worth discussing the meaning of the thunderbolts, and how it relates to the meaning of the creation process.

Mighty weapons of the greatest authority to smite those who transgress and violate. The place of a thunderbolt as that which represents divine authority, cosmic order, and the punishment to those that defy it is heavily ingrained in various cultures. A thunderbolt is a weapon to destroy and remove that which should not be, to punish acts that must not be.

The removal of impurities from society and the world.

The act of smithing is shaping a weapon, of removing impurities from the material and rendering it a pure, strengthened existence.

The process to create the weapon is the same as the purpose of the weapon.

The abilities of the Laelapolus could be said to be similar in effect to some disciplines of Alchemy as a result of the potential in refining, forging, and purging. Whether it’s processing and creating something, or striking down something. Impurities, both physical and not can be burned away.

Combined with the Laelapolus talent at analyzing and synchronizing magical energy...

Mystic Lock

The creation of Mystic Locks, a lock tied to the wavelength of one's magical energy, making it impossible to open by any other. A talent of the Laelopolus with their talent at dealing with the flow of magical energy, and synchronization trait. What would normally be a very difficult construct has become a staple for the Laelopolus, who are able to not only create them with greater ease, but also utilize them with more flexibility.

A lock that functions as a beacon, a lock that synchronizes with a cast spell. Various methods in utilizing a lock placed on targets and objects are a core to Evadrande’s repertoire.

It can be said that the talents of mystic locks and synchronization are that which allows the corps to reach its true value as an organization.

Greek Constellations (Talos Gaze)

The utilization of the constellations and heavens in magic. Utilizing their meanings, utilizing their positions and relations, and using them as guidance.

In the way of the Laelapolus their main use is the eponymous Talos Gaze that the corps take their name from. In that discipline, rather than focusing on the usage of the constellations as a guidance or determiner of fate, they are used to help elevate one’s viewpoint into that of a smiter, of one whose eyes are in Heaven. The viewpoint of a god cannot be attained, but something similar for the purposes of being that which punishes can be obtained.

If mortal men cannot navigate the world with their eyes only, then by turning to the presence of the stars and using their shine, even the formless dark oceans can be explored.

Someday perhaps the Laelapolus will achieve that overlooking view that is one half of the key to the end of their path.

Greek Constellations

Of course beyond the Talos Gaze, the various meanings of the constellations hold great power.

The home of those who are given immortality and peace after death. The ones that circle the Celestial Axis (Earth). Their position and overaching meaning can be utilized for various spells.

Most commonly, Evadrande evokes the trine of fire, Sagitarius, Leo, and Aries. The natural form of a trine as a harmonious natural flow, and the unit of three fitting into the three-step process of the Cyclops helps form a further relation that fits well with her magecraft.

Mystic Codes

Monófoto dimiourgós Κύκλωπας
Light
One-Lens Creator Cyclops

An eye-patch mystic code that helps with the process of the iconic magecraft of the Bronze Workers Corps. While mystic codes that work on the same principles are distributed to the other members, as the current Aegis and the heir to the Laelapolus the quality of her Κύκλωπας is beyond compare. A high-quality mystic code that’s an heirloom of the family, it helps facilitate the analysis of magical energy, the calculations needed for formulas and shots, and grounds the act of replicating the “creations of the Cyclops”.

In a sense one becomes closer to the giants that created the arms of the gods, however this wisdom gained is also similar to the idea prevalent in many mythological cycles throughout the world. Most notably that of the great god Odin who sacrificed an eye for wisdom. Furthermore the eyes are the symbol of perception, and the holder of great power and clairvoyance. To seal it off then is to sacrifice that perception that sees through the world to instead focus it on one sole thing. A single eye that looks only upon the light it wroughts.

Magical Amulet

A standard sort of magical amulet that rejects magical energy. Equivalent to a D rank in Magic Resistance.

Talos Gaze Uniform

A set of protective formalwear weaved together out of special cloth, hide and magical energy, similar to that worn by magi when they venture into Labyrinths or conduct other operations at a higher level.

Protects against interference at a rank of C on the magecraft scale. Particularly meant against, and efficient against physical interference. Its defense goes beyond what is covered physically, extending throughout the entire body. Furthermore it stabilizes and protects the senses against any sudden change or environment. Combined with her Cyclops it also therefore aids in the safe processing of overwhelming amounts of information as magi at times deal with.

Finally a set of Quintessence batteries (made with mercury, salt, and sulfur) are part of the uniform, filled with magical energy that can be discharged by Evadrande to form an emergency shield against curses.

The difference is that of what a researcher wears in special occasions, and the dress of a combatant. Although if one were to ask Evadrande. It is more something that is worn during social occasions, rituals, and a hunt. The true battle attire of the Talos Corp, and therefore her true might, is something that was not brought for this ritual.

Basic Traveling/Outing Kit

A set of magical energy potions, healing potions and a few antidotes made from things back from home. In a sense a magical first aid kit. Although she doesn't seem to believe it'll really be needed. One has to be responsible and be the one to have things like that.

Non-Magecraft Abilities and Items

Has a good eye for photography, composition of shots and layout. Her ability at archery would be at a level to be called a genius that doesn’t miss.

No matter how you look at it, isn’t that just saying she’s a good sniper?

Extremely good at running through crowds and navigating through traffic with minimal reduction of speed.

Extremely good at avoiding the booby-trapped treat in a box of prank/joke jelly beans.

Is very punctual about monetary transactions. Apparently mentioning the debt of the Greeks is an easy way to get on her bad side.

Good at biking, but prefers scooters. Has used skateboards before even.

Carries around 1500 pounds worth in liquid funds. If one were to compare it to the funds of the modern day, with inflation that would be around 50,000! A sizable allowance or sure.

Fate/True False War

I was originally going to do a Caster, but a Rider might be fun instead.

Fate/Factitious Paradigm

@Reflection

Black Demon God

The Beautiful Land

Five for the servant, one for the master.

The wind across his face was cold. Almost unbearably cold. His nerves and mind were woken up, and as he saw the brilliance of his servant, he could only smile.

Ah, somehow I managed to guide a burning star like that.

The glasses upon him felt natural. He was used to taking on the aspect of another and opening his own body to foreign entities as part of his shamanism. To take upon the mantle of a mobster. He was a horse, then a man, then a Yakuza.
He felt a gauge rise, corresponding to his thoughts and movements. What a strange thing.

What he would do next was something that most would call absolutely stupid.

The shroud ripped from a few quills that flew his way. The spirits within that moved to wrap around their wearer to keep protecting him curled around Tilipojuan. In a sense it looked more like a scarf now, bellowing in the wind as he suddenly rushed towards the Lyaeus. Wrapping and unraveling as he moved at a speed that exceeded even him as a horse as he was bolstered both by spirits he invoked into him, and the glasses that he now wore.

281 Starfist:Centarous

Crossing the distance he unleashed a barrage of blows, shining and leaving a trail like a comet as he let loose every strike like his mental image.

The absorption and circulation of outer energy to connect the internal and external. Taking in and releasing the gods. The discipline of martial arts. The opening of one’s self to spirits and cycling them. The two disciplines were, in his mind, surprisingly compatible despite being from the two other sides of the world.

The strength of beasts, the mind of a man, the pride of a Yakuza. Like a strange sort of Chimera, taking in the offerings of what Fuyuki had, he raised his fist against the Beast.

Whether or not the rain of blows was futile. Despite the fact that he was perhaps not endangering his servant. To simply stand there and wait was something he couldn’t do. Even if he was told that it would be the end of the world.

Fate/Factitious Paradigm

@CorpusMundum

End of a Youth - 4

The world stopped for him. He saw many things despite closing his eyes. A final gift from his nature and insight. The true nature of what he had to protect.

Ah, so that was it’s true farewell.

This was the end of Percival, this was the birth of Percival.

He found himself cradled for the last time. His spear growing into a full tree that enveloped him with the love of all those who had nurtured him. The embrace of his mother and sister, the camaraderie of his fellow knights, the light and rune of his master. How fitting was the willow. It was perhaps fate, for it marked the spear and himself better than his master could have ever known.

He was cast in darkness, yet he only saw light. The different branches shone with the events of his life. The admiration of knights, the hunting of boar, the doting mother, the defiled and wronged duchess, the lady that laughed at and praised the fool, the red knight who stood before him, the king who he served. The end of a utopia, the end of a life. The beginning of a war, the hunting of rats, the meeting of great legends and stars, the death of thousands.

Event after event mixed together, painting the sky in a full array of colors. More and more memories, records and possibilities branched out further and further declaring other colors of his life. What has happened elsewhere from faint records in the throne, whispers from the voices spread forth as what could have beens. Possibility in all shapes, that have happened, could have but will not happen, and that which will happen.

How overwhelming was the potential and possibility in one record alone.

But there was one straight path that faced the heavens directly, the one with the strongest form, that held a gravity that the other branches were drawn to.

The path known as his life. The here, the now.

He saw his sum, his eyes focused only on himself. Then his gaze shifted, attracted by an even greater shining light.

He saw the future and he changed.

One Step Changes All.

A Second Glance Sees Possibility.

Third Came The Confirmed Future (Dream)

Four Unknown Meanings

Five Timeless Words

Six Simple Prayers.

Ten Would See It All

Stand Against/Bring Forth: The End.

With Six Humanity will reach that which lies beyond Seven (Evils/Beasts)

He held none of their nature, nor did he hold the love that would turn his blade upon the world for the sake of the world.

He will not save the world.

How funny considering that he came to ask for the strength to do so. But then again, to begin with if that was what he wanted then he would have gone for the grail quicker, or accepted the love of the one who manifested and bared his fangs upon humanity to safeguard it. It was a lesson his self in life in Britain had already learned.

The limits enforced were needed. Mankind was not yet grown enough to live a life unshackled. The possibilities brought forth and carved into the world by the pioneers had meaning precisely because they overcame a previously undeniable law, a binding upon the potential of humanity. By their efforts they invited mankind to rise to meet that new possibility opened to them. Grow, grow, grow, grow.

The tree returned into his spear and filled his hand. It was surprisingly concrete, contrary to his expectations that it would be as slippery and hard to grasp as air. But as it came into his grip again he felt that it would be impossible to tear from his hold. Returning to its place, it began to shine brightly. A rainbow of colors as it took in possibility, like a kaleidoscope. A rainbow formed as the spear twisted into itself, branches curling around each other as the shaft of the spear became an intertwined spiral of colors.

If the tree earlier was the scattered representation of possibility and time, then the spear was a focus that showed their purpose in striving towards one path, one end point.

Two colors shone the brightest.

That of a greedy Blue.

That of a peerless Gold.

The color that mankind was progressing into.

The color that held its ultimate end, his ultimate hope and that which he saw and found beautiful.

There was much suffering, much terror in this world. There was progress and there was joy as well. Yet to say that this adolescent stage of mankind was able to balance the scale so as to justify the past was hilariously naive. Not even in a few hundred years of peace, even as mankind swelled to become larger in number than it ever had before there was too much tragedy in all of human history to overcome with good.

But it would be worth it.

Ah, how beautiful it was. He saw the stars, and he saw the fate of people intertwined as they left their cradle.

Surely the ocean beyond the world (space) will captivate mankind the same way those knights had captivated the him who had known only that glen, with his mother and the leisurely days of ignorantly hunting boars.

If the growing pains of history were the fuel and price to pay for that future.

Then he will protect this present, with all its good and all its bad to the end.

It was perhaps an evil, to expect and hope for this suffering and struggle of growth upon all of humanity. Perhaps his master would understand just how much he was asking. The man who had seen his transformation first-hand, every step of the way. Perhaps he would consider it not his business, perhaps he would simply accept it as the yolk of the future.

But that suffering, that hardship. He understood it to be too great for all, and yet so small and inconsequential compared to that which humanity will face. It was cruel, much too cruel. He could perhaps understand why the one who decided that his own brand of cruelty would be preferable.

But he trusted in the shine of gold. So he would bear his own blade against the one who would break order.

Yes, in the name of order, in the name of that future. He would deny that overflowing love.

The youth did not rise again after all. What rose was instead a man, a blossomed adult who reached the end of his journey as an adolescent. His body grew, his eyes grew keener with wisdom and experience. Still a fair young man, still a beautiful knight. Yet that was hardly the end. Taking his spear in hand, he looked to his cousin before moving to greet those who came to visit the two.

“You.”

That was all that needed to be said indeed.

He raised his spear.

Fate/Factitious Paradigm

End of a Youth - 3

What came was not death to the Lancer, but instead a hand. The smiling face of Percival's adversary filling his slowly refocusing vision. "I have won." he spoke with the firmness of the declaration of a undeniable fact. "But I did not say I will kill you." No suggestive or venomous jab about it being a mercy not offered to him. His words only carried sincerity as he grabbed at the pale wrist of Percival.

“Stand. Lancer. No, that is incorrect. Stand, oh Sir Percival, stand o my dear cousin, the knight who truly stood alone. Your ability at arms even as a child is as clear as day, and your spirit has truly come far. Of course I know of your tale, I know of the end of you as a king. But that is not you. If you truly stood alone as you claimed, then you must be tested on your own merits. Your manifestation now, your story now.”

He looked upon the fallen youth, bloodied, and beaten into submission. Yet even in such a state his face was so fair it was almost annoying. It was wreathed in cold dread, in sorrow, in crushed hope, and resignation. The fool who he cursed would not be able to hold such things in his heart. His face would not be distorted, tainted or harmed by such emotions. Yet, those impure moments that harmed him, that took him from a sheltered fool and exposed him to the harshness of the world… It was not just mere suffering. He felt the other side to them before that spear, against that fist.

In light of that he could only call that heart, and that anguish beautiful. The struggle against such terrors. Oh dear, Percival, oh dear knight. Their blood mixed, the great wounds of Ither dripping onto the defeated Percival.

He did not love humanity in that manner at all, and indeed if it were a simple matter of cleansing the planet, of bringing forth beauty once more to this world, then he would simply stand to the side. But that sense of wrongness was something he too could not accept.

“I am no king, nor do I hold no blade of coronation. Yet I shall declare you a knight. Let my authority be accepted by none in such a ruling, yet let my authority be absolute in such a ruling! Am I not the one who made you a knight in the first place? Was it not my place that you took? You did not seek out authority, nor did you seek out a wish. In the first place you came to me to be tested and to try and reach for something new that hadn't yet taken shape, no? Then I shall do what you cannot and put it to words, I shall do what you seek and brand you as what you have managed to claim. You stand now not as a fool, nor as a rabbit. Fate has indeed chosen a different champion, and our chains to our story are broken. Yet nonetheless, or precisely so, I shall give you my blessing.”

Their paths have taken a different turn. But that is fine. After all, what was needed wasn’t the one who found the Red Knight of the Round.

The one to stand alone, who would grow towards a golden future.

“You are no Knight clad in Red. You are simply Percival, no less, and no more. So stand!”

Their wounds began to heal, their bodies becoming whole. As though heeding the words of the Saber, the abandoned rags transformed into the armor of the Red Knight and rose to add themselves to Ither who has proven himself the one and only Red Knight to exist in Fuyuki.

In turn the youth who was pulled up changed, freed from his previous trappings.

Saint Graph Readvent. The fluctuating Saint Graph solidified and changed. Or perhaps it was not an readvent. In a certain manner it was growing closer to the origin of the story, and yet it traveled a new completely different path. Perhaps it could be called a genesis. This story existed only in the now, born from the events of this war.

Percival was reborn.

Fate/Factitious Paradigm

End of a Youth - 2

He thought of a conversation between him and his master. Perhaps the only real time they truly conversed. How pointless, how meaningless. When all the world was at stake. Before they left for their own fates, at the DDD, in the wild fields of Miyama.

His master had admired the tree. That was certain, but he wondered why. It was not something that quite led to the truth he sought as a magus, at least it was not one related to his path as a magus. If he was focused on his magecraft then it was likely that he was wanting the grail for some other sort of wish. Truth be told he did not know his master too well. He suffered quietly the rambunctious unfettered desires of his servant, and yet flew into a rage when he saw what was beautiful as being despoiled. Was his ire simply hard to raise, with only something he truly admired being defaced able to move him to action? So undriven and yet participating in this war...

Did he hate the modern world? Did he hate cities and people?

Well, it seemed more that he simply liked trees. But he didn't know, so he asked.

“Master. Why’d you come to this war anyway?”

“Hmm? What sort of stupid question is that? To get the grail of course.”

“That’s usually the case. But why get the grail?” He asked while draping his legs across a chair, while lying down on the ground with his upper half of the body down against the floor. The image of Percival was like a dog in that moment. It was impossible to ignore the weight on his shoulders, but in his mannerisms and how he took to things, there was still a spark of that strange innocent youth.

To that question Hamel furrowed his brows and pursed his lips, deep in thought for a moment. Then, his face softened, as if remembering a particularly fond memory. Then, for once during this war, he let out a soft smile.

“Well, it may sound a bit silly… but it was for the sake of my greed I suppose. The wish it offered was a bit intriguing, but I would rather work for my desires you must understand. Winning the grail would be more of a passing flight of fancy to be honest.”

He considered the words of his master. Perhaps that was why he ended up with his immature self. One who did not crave a wish but wanted it anyway. One who wished to work for his accomplishments and yet held the greed to simply ask for the results as all humans wished in their weakness.. What a light reason to join the war. Was that then why he accepted the nature of his servant? Was that really it? Was a magus so simple?

The morningstar blocked out the sun, and he felt his body not listening to him even more. Ah, so this was as far as he went.

Many dreams and nightmares descended upon Fuyuki, but this end to mankind would be met without him. This was perhaps the price for his sins and his own naivety. A boy who left home ignorant of the world, deciding that it simply held adventure and goodness. In his own lack of acknowledgement of evil he commited evil and visited upon others atrocities. It was always the same.

He had certainly failed many people. The people who he had to save as a hero, the people who did not wish for this, the people whose lives would be trampled by that which descended.

But there was one person who would know he failed them. His master.

It was a bit awkward, or so Percival felt, time passing in silence after such an admission. The passing of precious seconds rung out from a clock as they simply did nothing. It wasn't to his taste, so he asked another question before looking over to Hamel again. “You said that tree was beautiful.”

Raising a brow, Hamel spoke almost incredulously.

“Of course it was! You would say otherwise?” Sighing, he rubbed the bridge of his nose, his peaceful facade broken, and his scowling face returned once more.

“Well, it was like watching a falling star you know, something so far away coming within reach. It was a dream coming true."

Letting out a long cheerful "Aah!", the sound of understanding brought a slight casual smile to Percival's face, brightening up his expression that was busy hiding the melancholy he'd been struck by as of late.

"There was something that I felt was like that in my life as well. I speak of course of the king."

Hamel's scowl disappeared and he leaned forward. His interest drawn by such a statement, and the the lure of the topic. The legendary Arthur. A book that had been in his hands slipped out of his lap. With a dull thud it closed upon the carpet as his ears were drawn.

"He was beautiful, he was wondrous. He was inhuman, too pure. Even I knew he was something special that I could not quite become when I was a kid. When I saw him I fell in love all over again. Not with him as a person, but rather with the idea of a knight. My understanding of what a knight was when I was a fool wasn’t complete. But I knew I loved it all the same. The king was a fantasy, one who brought utopia to humans.

He was a star for sure.

We fought to reject the past while trying to keep the fantasy for ourselves. Our search for the grail is like that tree of fantasy actually.” he admitted sheepishly. “The tales differ of course, but I have the memories of attaining the grail, or rather becoming the king who holds it. I did not save Camelot, not that it could truly be saved.”
-

He realized his mistake. He should have seen it when he spoke with his master. They talked about trivial things perhaps, but there was something he said himself that he should’ve remembered and taken notice of. He was not a hero saved the land, or the world. Nor should he be.

I did not save the kingdom, I did not save Camelot with the grail. Why was that? He'd forgotten about such a thing. Caught up in what the voices were warning him of, of the problems that arose in the city. How silly. But perhaps that was why he was a fool. A lily who could not see the full picture, who lost sight of the meaning of his end point.

He saw Ither move in a vision most blurry. Ah, he was still around somehow. Was this the dilation of time one met upon their death? Perhaps he had such a thing in his own life, but if he did he could not remember. At the least he was certain it was not like this. He saw the morningstar fall, then something come towards him.

Yes.

To save the world was wrong. Wasn’t that what this foe was trying to do in the first place? Even if he did not know its true nature, or even the true identity that much was known to him. The words from his master that he’d been ignoring of the situation at the DDD that began moments ago came to him. Or rather there was no room in Percival to hear them in the few moments of that clash.

Ah, the voices returned to tell them of what had to be done.

But he couldn’t do it anymore.

Then finally they said goodbye..

Yeah, this was the end.

“Hah. To think we’ve both done foolish things chasing after a wishgranter. Perhaps we’re more alike than I thought?” Hamel had certainly seemed more cheerful with the notion. “A pair of fools, aren’t we? If only if we deigned to converse earlier.”

That soft expression once more flit upon his face, looking out of place on a man so often seen in an unhappy visage. But at the same time, there was a feeling that there was no other expression would be appropriate upon his own face.

“It looks that way.” Percival responded with a frankness that did not hide his thoughts. “Still, to chase after a fancy like that. Is your greed really worth risking your life? It doesn’t seem that strong. Sorry for saying this master, but it feels a bit half-assed in a way.”

Hamel droned out a understanding ah before pouring a cup of tea for himself. One more local to his land, rather than the foreign brews of Japan.

“But there’s nothing wrong with chasing after dreams. Or childishly going after one's selfish fickle desires. At least I think so. My time in this war is a big risk, a terrible mistake. From the perspective of an outsider I am a terrible magus to the utmost degree. To risk my family line for something that is not even for the culmination of a dream. But that’s fine. But in the first place, I never came to love magic because of my family or the obligation that was passed down to me, I came to love it for what it was to me and me alone. I chase after pleasures that are as concrete as phantoms, and butterflies in a storm without regard to anything else. Perhaps it is time to stop. They say that a proper magus can only devote 50 years to research before he must dedicate himself to the raising of an heir. But knowing me, that time will most likely come for me much earlier.”

Eyes turned downward, voice having gone much softer, and a melancholic light entering his eyes. Hamel once more turned up a sad smile before continuing on.

“This may be the last great adventure I may ever have Percival. So I shall jealously guard this childhood of mine, at least for just a while. So I ask of you as my servant. If my fate is indeed in your hands…

Show me the most precious of adolescent dreams that burns bright enough to fuel a hundred lives.”

Percival closed his eyes.