D' Ultimate Lich King

Arthas harbored some doubts, but he knew the Church wouldn't act openly.

The Command Seal should be his; even if the Church was colluding with Tokiomi Tohsaka, they wouldn't risk such blatant hostility.

Their invitation, the offer of the Command Seal, and the subtle probing of his attitude—that seemed to be the Church's true purpose.

They were also likely assessing his weaknesses...

Arthas thought, looking at Illya.

He didn't want to admit it, but Illya was his greatest vulnerability; she would likely become a prime target for other Masters.

Rider was the only opponent Arthas felt truly comfortable with; anyone else could attack Illya at any moment.

"What's wrong, Arthas?"

Noticing her husband's pensive expression, Illya asked; he chuckled and shook his head.

"Nothing. Let's go to the Church; get our reward."

"Is going directly wise? Might the Church play tricks?"

"Relax; they're supposed to be impartial; the Command Seal reward is known to all Masters; they can't manipulate that."

"I see,"

Reassured, Illya nodded; after breakfast, they left the Einzbern annex.

Flandre, disliking daylight, reluctantly followed in spirit form for Arthas and Illya's safety.

They arrived at the Church around 10 am; only a priest stood in the empty church.

Arthas recognized him: Kotomine Kirei, a Grail War participant eliminated on the first night.

The Assassin's Master, Tokiomi Tohsaka's disciple, and the son of the Grail War's overseer, Kotomine Risei.

He was likely seeking sanctuary; the circumstances were highly suspicious.

"You've arrived. My father awaits you in the chapel,"

Kotomine Kirei said impassively, directing Arthas.

Arthas nodded and entered the chapel, where he met Kotomine Risei, the Grail War's overseer.

"The nuns and priests have evacuated Fuyuki due to the Grail War; please forgive the lack of hospitality,"

Kotomine Risei said politely, inviting them to sit.

Arthas nodded, sitting with Illya.

"Your Servant should be here; she eliminated the rogue Berserker."

Kotomine Risei said gratefully.

"That rogue Master and Servant caused much trouble; the Grail War's exposure would cause chaos; thank you for eliminating them,"

"As the overseer, I wish to express my gratitude personally."

Arthas understood Kotomine Risei's true aim: to assess Flandre's strength. Since the request was so formal, Arthas couldn't refuse.

Flandre frowned but materialized in the chapel.

"Here I am. Say your thanks quickly; I want to sleep,"

Flandre said lazily, sitting beside Arthas, swinging her legs.

As a vampire, she was uncomfortable in the daylight, in a church.

Kotomine Risei noticed; his eyes flickered.

"But is Flandre truly a Caster? I'm curious how you defeated the Berserker in direct combat."

Kotomine Risei smiled; Flandre raised an eyebrow.

"If I'm not a Caster… what else could I be?"

She smirked, staring at Kotomine Risei, making him look away.

"Yes… if Miss Flandre isn't a Caster… what else could she be…"

Kotomine Risei murmured, smiling ingratiatingly; he rolled up his sleeve, revealing the Command Seal.

"I'll give you the Command Seal, Mr. Arthas."

Arthas and Illya soon left the chapel; Kotomine Kirei remained in the hall, seemingly praying.

Without disturbing him, Arthas and Illya left; Kotomine Kirei only looked up after they were gone.

Kotomine Risei emerged from the chapel.

"Well, Kirei, what of this Arthas?"

"He…"

Kotomine Kirei tilted his head; a hint of confusion crossed his impassive face. Then he said slowly.

"He feels… dangerous!"

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