DanMachi: Ultimate Lich King

Illya left the room with Jubstacheit, still puzzled.

"Grandfather… why did you say that? Wasn't the chosen Einzbern participant… the mage killer?"

Illya asked; she knew her purpose. She was a vessel for the Lesser Grail, a tool to attract a powerful mage to the Einzbern family.

For mages, women weren't desirable; they could obtain any woman, regardless of beauty.

Mages sought women only for procreation; finding a woman with pure bloodline to bear gifted children was paramount.

Love and family were nonexistent in the hearts of mages seeking the Root.

"Kiritsugu Emiya is a suitable candidate. While not a highly skilled mage, he's ruthless and will do anything to achieve his goals—the Holy Grail War needs someone like him."

Jubstacheit's tone was cold, a stark contrast to his demeanor with Arthas.

"But Kiritsugu's strength is lacking. Even with a powerful Servant, his mana supply would be insufficient, though his skills compensate. He was the best choice, but now I have another—a powerful, legitimate mage—so I've changed my mind."

"But… won't Kiritsugu arrive at Einzbern today?"

"Yes. I'm waiting for him. Arthas's strength is uncertain; Kiritsugu can assess him; the loser will be disqualified."

"I understand, Grandfather."

Illya said emotionlessly. Sadness? No; this was her fate.

The Holy Grail War was ten years away; regardless of the victor, as the Lesser Grail's vessel, she would die.

The outcome was predetermined; there was no need to worry.

As night fell, a maid led Arthas to dinner with Illya and Jubstacheit.

Jubstacheit seemed to already consider Arthas his son-in-law.

Arthas nodded politely and took his seat. The seemingly harmonious family dinner was interrupted by a maid who whispered to Jubstacheit.

Jubstacheit nodded, looking apologetic at Arthas.

"I'm sorry, Arthas. An unexpected guest has arrived."

"Who?"

Arthas raised an eyebrow; Jubstacheit chuckled awkwardly.

"You know we sought mages for the Holy Grail War; I withdrew the announcement, but those who received the news earlier have arrived, unwilling to give up."

Arthas nodded; he understood Jubstacheit's intention—to test his strength.

This was understandable, but Arthas didn't appreciate it.

"I understand. As the Einzbern son-in-law, I'll show those who covet my woman their place."

Arthas said calmly, leaving the living room.

"Good personality. No need to worry. Let's see if he can handle the mage killer."

After Arthas left, Jubstacheit produced a crystal ball showing a forest scene; a man in a black coat carrying a box approached.

Kiritsugu Emiya, known as the "mage killer." This wasn't praise; it was contempt.

Countless mages had died at Kiritsugu's hands, but they were all careless, killed by Kiritsugu's underhanded methods.

Kiritsugu would use any means to kill his target—sniping, bombs.

His methods were despised by the mage community.

Yet, no one dared attack Kiritsugu; no one wanted to be targeted by a madman.

For the Holy Grail War, Kiritsugu was Jubstacheit's initial choice.

Despite his reputation, Kiritsugu was strong; he was easier to control than arrogant mages.

Kiritsugu looked around, confused. He'd arrived at the Einzbern estate as agreed, but no one was there.

A whooshing sound.

Kiritsugu reacted instantly, stepping back; an ice spike landed where he'd been standing.

A mage… why attack me?

Kiritsugu looked up, seeing a young man walking through the snow.

The young man's expression was impassive; he raised a hand, ice spikes hovering in his palm.

"You're… the mage marrying into the Einzbern family?"

"Yes, I'm Kiritsugu Emiya. Who are you? What's the meaning of this?"

Kiritsugu, sensing danger, placed his hand on his box, ready to open it.

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