[ The summoning artifact had been prepared diligently. As the future successor to the Yggdmillennia clan, after Lancer, the Master who had been chosen to summon the second-strongest Servant had been Fiore. It had been an honor she hadn't expected, but took seriously, and she'd placed the stray piece of a knight's helmet on the altar before she'd rejoined the others.
The rest is... almost a blur, with the Servants appearing simultaneously, and Astolfo giddily dragging them into introductions. Fiore didn't even try to get a word in edgewise, merely peering at her new Servant with clear blue eyes.
When they do finally disband, she softly clears her throat. ]
I hope all of this wasn't too overwhelming for you, Saber.
[ From the more distant viewpoint that Heroic Spirits were allowed, it made perfect sense to Gawain that his existence would become exactly this. In life, he had quested for the Holy Grail, but he had failed to deliver it to his King. Even if no other knight was able to either, that failure's weight never quite left him. He knew it wasn't exactly fate that kept him questing so much as the fact that the entire Round Table held great renown as heroes, but at least part of him interpreted it that way.
So, it's a blur for him too, but in a different way. He knows that he's pulled from the Throne, and he knows that he's done this before, perhaps many times, but the details of any of his summonings are vague, if they exist at all. If he was summoned in a past or future War, he does not know. What sorts of Masters he had are left to vague memories that are impressions of a person more than anything concrete. In life, he might have found that troubling, but now? It was what it was. Any Masters, past or future, held no importance compared to the one who called for him at the present.
Though even so, he's fairly certain this is an unusual situation. He appears in a glow of golden light as bright as the noonday sun, and when the light clears, he's far from alone. In fact, there's an entire set of Servants alongside him. But there's little time to express surprise, since in the face of Astolfo's earnest nature, Gawain had given his true name without hesitation. It seemed to cause a bit of excitement in the Masters present, since surely with a legendary knight of the Round Table, they surely thought their victory was a certainty.
Even so, it makes him rather grateful for when they all part ways. It's certainly not the best of introductions, since his chivalric nature makes him prefer something more private to introduce himself to his Master. Especially so, seeing as she's of the fairer sex and afflicted with a physical weakness. Neither is anything he looks down upon, since he holds great respect for anyone who is able to call out and summon him, but. It's Gawain... ]
It's certainly a surprise. It is not often we Servants stand together as allies.
[ But even so, he smiles easily. ]
But the boisterousness is a bit nostalgic. I would hardly call it overwhelming, Master.
[ Though the allies he traditionally stood with were much more unified in skills and ideals... Even looking at the Servants gathered by this group of Masters, Gawain feels certain that they're much less unified. However, they're his allies, which is all that matters. Differences of ideals are something he hopes can be put aside for the war ahead. ]
Rider may have began introductions, but please, allow me to introduce myself to you more formally. [ They're still moving along to their destination, but Gawain makes a partial gesture of a formal, deferential bow. ] I am Gawain, Knight of the Round Table and the Knight of the Sun, and your Saber. I look forward to working with you, Master.
[ Truthfully, if she'd had to admit it, Fiore wouldn't have ever expected Gawain. A knight, of course, who had left a mark upon history or legend, but to think that the one who had answered her call was the Knight of the Sun himself, one of the powerful Knights of the Round Table...
She's far too controlled to let such knowledge stagger her outwardly, but it's a quiet surge of pleased surprise and confidence that was only rivaled by the way she'd felt when she'd laid eyes upon the Greater Grail. That, even though she held no fondness for fighting and had ties to the magi of the Clock Tower as friends, there was proof that her wish could be granted if she was willing to fight for it.
She smiles now, rueful. Gawain calls it "nostalgic", but it does seem rather like a chaotic gathering with a few solemn, dignified Servants at odds with Astolfo's boisterous attitude and their Berserker's soft growls. His fellow knights were probably at least a little more put together than that. ]
It's a pleasure, Saber Gawain. You already know that I am your Master during the course of this war, but please allow me to introduce myself properly.
My name is Fiore Forvedge Yggdmillennia, successor of the Yggdmillennia clan. While I'm afraid you'll be expected to address me as Master in most situations, you may call me Fiore if you feel comfortable doing so when it remains only us.
[ It's a bit funny, but in her introduction alone, Gawain feels a bit more at ease. While it's far better to have a Servant that you have a good affinity with, he couldn't help but have noticed the perfect nature of the catalysts that were assembled. Even if only a piece, Gawain recognized that piece of his helmet. There was no other Servant that could be summoned from it, and he expects the same was true of the others. But this first impression is a good one, and at least gives him an inkling that they may very well be a well-matched pair.
...Not that it would matter too much, really. His own principles meant that even if his Master were his complete opposite, they would have his fealty, but. Naturally it would be a relief to anyone that their new partner was of similar mind. ]
It is no trouble. I would call you my Master regardless, though perhaps in private, Lady Fiore, if that doesn't trouble you.
[ He has enough knowledge of the era to know that way of addressing her is outdated and even corny, but... He'd do it anyways. ]
Either way, as I with you. My sword is yours to direct. [ After a moment's pause, he does add one more thing: ] And of course, anything else as well. I'll assist you in any way you need.
[ It's polite, and he's trying to be vague, but this is definitely an offer to help her with anything physical... gj gawain ]
[ They're already off to a better start than Celenike and Astolfo, though thankfully, Fiore currently has no idea that aforementioned Master is happily going to town restraining her Servant and licking his bare stomach.
It's probably for the best. ]
It... doesn't trouble me, no. [ Fluster her, though? Absolutely, though there's only a faint tint of pink in her face. ] And if it doesn't trouble you, I might request your assistance with pushing my wheelchair.
I am aware that it's not a task for a Servant, so please don't feel obligated.
[ Gawain nods, of course perfectly agreeable to this scenario, since it's what he was indirectly trying to ask. That, and that faint flush on her cheeks doesn't go beyond his notice, and he's happy to see it. He'll never tire of seeing that kind of reaction! ]
Think nothing of it—I would not consider it an obligation.
[ That's the basics of introductions that he needs to know, so now getting to know his new Master can be mingled in with more tactical concerns. ]
Then if you'll direct me, would you be able to give me a tour of the castle? I'd like to see where its strengths and weaknesses lie, and we can continue to talk along the way.
[ Fiore nods, and gamely settles into explaining the layout of the castle as they proceed. There's the laboratory, consisting of many, many tubes of homunculi being formed and the golems that Avicebron and Roche have been diligently working on. There's the lookout at the top of the castle, overlooking the vast forest area and the town of Trifas. There's... well, Celenike's dungeons, and Fiore very softly explains that it's best not to go there, for various reasons (and because she's not entirely sure that Gawain isn't that woman's type).
He's seen the throne area, where Lancer rules firmly, the workshops, and then it's down one of the long hallways to the rooms. ]
This is mine-- one hallway down to the left, three doors down would be your room. Between the homunculi and your connection with me, maintaining your physical form shouldn't be an issue, and this way, you'll be able to have your privacy when you need it.
[ As they tour the castle, it's clear that Gawain is carefully taking all of it in from the vantage point of a general. He had commanded armies in his life, laid siege to and defended castles, and so understanding this one is important to him. He's largely cheerful as they conduct the tour, but his smile does falter at two occasions.
For one, the homunculi. The rows and rows of artificial humans are unsettling, and it reminds him of the part of magic that's quite dark. Objectively, he knows that it's something of a necessity in modern day magic, but he can't help that little stirring in his heart that says that this is wrong. However, it's quick to pass. It's necessary is enough justification for him, because a war is about to begin. The materials needed to supply the effort has just changed.
The other, naturally, is the dungeon. Dungeons were never known for being particularly hospitable accommodations, but he still gets a sense that her warning is one he'll heed. The average dungeons of a castle are surely nothing compared to the domain of a magus. Moreso than the laboratory, Gawain thinks he would do well to stay away from this particular corner...
Though it is just interesting to explore the castle, admittedly. It's no Camelot (it's far, far gloomier), but he still feels a bit more at home within the cool stone walls than he might elsewhere. ]
You've really thought of everything, haven't you? [ He says it with a mild amusement in his tone, and it's clear that by "you" he really means the whole group of magi. But he nods, clearly finding none of this disagreeable. ] Then you need only call for me. I'll likely conserve as much magical energy as I can.
[ So even if neither is strictly necessary, he won't maintain his physical form when it isn't needed, and he'll sleep when time permits. Considering the planning put into everything else so far, he doesn't imagine magical energy will become an issue, but... Just in case. If even only two Servants needed to unleash their Noble Phantasms simultaneously, that's a huge amount of energy that's needed. ]
...Though, if I may be so forward, I would like to ask you a personal question. [ He looks to her room's door, as if asking if she wants to go inside before he does. ]
[ As Gawain's been taking in the castle, so too has Fiore been taking in his reactions. While the Master-Servant relationship is largely that of an incredibly powerful tool wielded expertly by a summoner, Fiore couldn't help but think it was better to treat her newest ally and partner with respect and allow a more natural bond to form. If she can't trust her Servant, they'll have a difficult time winning this War.
So she's noted his reaction to both the homunculi and the dungeons, and made sure not to forget them. A knight might have a harder time understanding the more pragmatic nature of a magus, with their code of chivalry, and she needs to keep that in mind. He's observant, and already preparing, which are both excellent traits.
Fiore nods when he speaks up again, simply murmuring a single word to unlock the door in front of her. It swings open without preamble, allowing the both of them access inside.
Her quarters are spacious, but sparsely decorated. A table, a tea set, her bed in the corner, a few matching chairs for guests, a desk piled neatly with paperwork and books... it's different from her workshop, but it's additionally one of the few places where she feels as though she can breathe easy. ]
[ He pushes her inside dutifully, and even though it may be able to be closed through a similar magic word, he also takes care to close the door after them. It may not even be necessary, but he'll take the precaution all the same. Considering what he wants to ask, he wouldn't be surprised if it was something that she preferred privacy with. ]
It may be more in the realm of a curiosity than anything.
[ In her own room, he imagines she's likely fine to navigate on her own. He moves in front of her, since this question is one that he finds important, and therefore suited to say eye to eye. ]
If I may, why are you fighting to claim the Grail? What would you wish of it?
[ In a way, her answer would change little. Even if it was something that Gawain disagreed with, his loyalty wouldn't falter, which is why he thinks of it as a curiosity more than anything. Even if it was something he disagreed with, his personal code of chivalry meant that he would still give his all to help her claim it. ...Of course, that was also something of a bare minimum by his standards. If it was something he agreed with, then he would push himself much harder. ]
[ Fiore's smile turns sheepish as she glances down at her hands, before her gaze shifts back to Gawain's face. ]
It's very selfish of me... but the reason I'm in a wheelchair is because my Magic Circuits are in my legs and have caused a certain disability since my birth. As long as I remain a magus, I'll never be able to stand or walk on my own.
If I removed that, I would be able to, but I would no longer be a magus. I wanted to wish for a way to be able to use my legs and still retain my magecraft.
[ It's nothing noble. But it's what she's wanted, more than anything. ]
[ Gawain's eyebrows raise in open, but quiet surprise. It's not the wish itself. That makes perfect sense to him, and it's one that he'll lend his strength to without question. Rather, his surprise comes from what caused her disability. He's not well versed in magic himself, really only knowing the basics as it pertained to the Grail War more than anything else, so to have Magic Circuits have this kind of unfortunate outcome... Well, it's a bit shocking. He's never heard of such a thing, but he knows that's not saying much.
Still, his expression softens. It's sympathetic, but not condescending in the slightest. ]
Perhaps it is selfish, technically... But I understand it. I may not have skill with magic myself, but I know to lose such a craft would be the same as if I were to lose my training as a knight.
[ An impossible setback, in other words. ]
Thank you for telling me, Master. It may not be necessary for the fight ahead, and I apologize if I overstepped my bounds in any way. When waging a war, I like to know what it is I am fighting for. This is something I have no qualms with, so I shall do all I must to deliver you victory.
[ She's relieved to see that there's no sign of pity on his face, or in his voice. She hadn't wanted that manner of reaction, anyway, and had sought to keep her answer as matter-of-fact as possible. ]
No... I'd already decided I wanted to remain on equal footing with you. I can hardly ask for your loyalty and your resolve if I'm not willing to share such matters with you.
[ Most importantly, he understands how much of a blow it would be to have to give up one thing over another. It's all she could have asked for. ]
... Is it all right, then, if I ask what your own wish would be?
[ He's not surprised that she asks, and he had been ready to explain just this, since it's a perfectly reasonable question to ask of your Servant. However... He knows his answer is odd. Even not having met many Servants (that he remembers, at least), he can't imagine many would share anything similar. It's not something he would begrudge any of them for. ]
I don't have a wish in particular.
[ There's a gentle earnestness to his answer, even if it might not sound entirely believable. From other Servant, it might seem like a lie to avoid the question, but with Gawain, it seems to be quite true. His expression is tinged with a bit of sadness, but it's an old one. His failing is one he's come to at least accept. ]
My wish is to do just this. I was not able to loyally serve my King in life, so I think of being a Servant as something of a penance for that. My sword will always shine brightest for King Arthur, should we ever cross paths again, but in the meantime, I only wish to give my Masters what I failed to give him.
[ Fiore had given him a confused stare at first-- because as far as she was aware, only Servants who held a wish would answer the Grail's call. But as he continues, the perplexity in her gaze lightens, then vanishes entirely.
It's not as large a wish as she had expected. But he's so earnest about it that there was never any doubt about his sincerity, just a sense of... melancholy, if she had to place a name to it. His own regrets had held him down long past his death, and that's a fate she wouldn't wish hon anyone. ]
I understand. I don't know how many Wars you'll be summoned to, or what relevance this one will hold for you, but as long as I'm your Master, I'll do my best to grant that wish for you.
[ "By letting you serve me to your utmost" sounds like a terrible thing to say, though, so she doesn't. ]
[ She's a kind person, he thinks. Her own sympathy and concern is clear, and for that, he wishes he could dismiss it entirely. So the moment of seriousness passes, at least on his part, and he's back to an easy smile. ]
Now, it's nothing to frown over. It sounds a bit gloomy, but... I do not think of it as such. To serve is my second chance to do right by my oath, and I can think of nothing greater that even the Holy Grail itself could give me.
[ Though he does reach up to idly scratch at his neck, a bit of an awkward gesture, since it's still difficult to explain. He's not sure he would have ever reached this peace about it in life, even if Arthur had somehow miraculously triumphed in Camlann. It comes from a perspective that's distinctly inhuman, that part of him that's now an eternal being rather than one limited by a single lifespan. Even if it's his reality now, that difference is difficult for him to put into words. ]
You needn't concern yourself over me, though your kindness is not something I will spurn. After all, it is just as much my oath to protect a maiden's smile.
[ It's one thing to have him reassure her that his wish isn't anything like a burdensome regret weighing down his shoulders and to let herself completely believe it. Though, at the same time, she doesn't doubt him. It just seems... well, he's right. It sounds gloomy. ]
I can't say I'm entirely like the maidens you were probably familiar with, unfortunately.
But...
[ ... ]
Thank you, for your candor and your sincerity. I do happen to think we'll work well together.
Of that, you are correct. No maiden was ever my master, after all.
[ ...More or less. Technically, his king was, but even knowing that truth now, it's difficult for him to think of her as such. Arthur never showed that side of herself, so she would always be a king over anything else in his mind. ]
That simply makes that oath all the more pressing! I must resolve your worries, both as a knight and as your Servant. [ There's a playful laugh in his voice, but it doesn't really seem like he's joking... It seems that the knights of the Round Table are truly as gallant as stories say. ]
...But I do agree. I hope the same is true of the rest of the Masters and Servants.
[ If she'd ever had any doubt of gallantry, Gawain sure is curbstomping it currently.
Fiore pauses to think of the current arrangement, tapping her chin. ]
I think Berserker will do well with my brother. He's not very delicate, but he seeks to understand and cooperate, so they should be a good match. Lancer is well-respected by his Master, as is Caster... Archer may have some difficulty with Uncle Gordes trying to be too commanding.
[ Haaa. ]
... I, er. Rider may have some trouble, as well, but as a Servant, he should be fine?
[ His attention gets a bit more focused as it turns back to more tactical considerations. He nods along as she explains, since knowing at least the majority of who these Servants are, he can't help but wonder. Frankenstein and Vlad the Impaler are infamous in their own rights, but they're also not noted for their... Well. To even think it would seem like it could invite trouble, somehow. Vlad especially is no king under which he would serve, to say the least.
He's naturally curious about the Caster and Archer, since they're both quite mysterious, if for different reasons. Archer at least gave him the initial impression of being a gloomy, serious fellow, so he thinks they'll get along. It's not unlike another bow-wielding knight he knew in life.
However, any of the questions that would come from that quickly become secondary when it's mentioned Rider might have some trouble. His brow furrows together in curiosity, but his mind doesn't go anywhere near what his trouble might be... ]
Hm? Is this because of his forwardness? I hope he would not be punished for that.
No, it's not a matter of his personality. [ Vlad would have made his displeasure known at the beginning if Astolfo's straightforward attitude was a hindrance. ]
Rather... it's his Master I'm more concerned about. She's, ah...
[ She pauses to clear her throat delicately. ]
... She takes great pleasure in torment, and... [ Help her. ]
[ There's definite concern in his voice, since he still doesn't quite get to the right conclusion. Or, well. He's like, half right, but the other half is important... ]
Even if he is a Servant, does that mean Sir Astolfo is at risk?
[ His expression stays serious, though confused for a few moments. He's clearly mulling it over, and especially her hestiation, but all of the sudden, his expression brightens back into a smile as he laughs. ]
...Haha, oh! Would you happen to mean torment more... [ Hm, how to put it. ] Well, to be polite, let us just say carnal?
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
timeasmymeasure
first meeting!
Date: 2019-04-26 04:24 am (UTC)The rest is... almost a blur, with the Servants appearing simultaneously, and Astolfo giddily dragging them into introductions. Fiore didn't even try to get a word in edgewise, merely peering at her new Servant with clear blue eyes.
When they do finally disband, she softly clears her throat. ]
I hope all of this wasn't too overwhelming for you, Saber.
no subject
Date: 2019-04-26 02:57 pm (UTC)So, it's a blur for him too, but in a different way. He knows that he's pulled from the Throne, and he knows that he's done this before, perhaps many times, but the details of any of his summonings are vague, if they exist at all. If he was summoned in a past or future War, he does not know. What sorts of Masters he had are left to vague memories that are impressions of a person more than anything concrete. In life, he might have found that troubling, but now? It was what it was. Any Masters, past or future, held no importance compared to the one who called for him at the present.
Though even so, he's fairly certain this is an unusual situation. He appears in a glow of golden light as bright as the noonday sun, and when the light clears, he's far from alone. In fact, there's an entire set of Servants alongside him. But there's little time to express surprise, since in the face of Astolfo's earnest nature, Gawain had given his true name without hesitation. It seemed to cause a bit of excitement in the Masters present, since surely with a legendary knight of the Round Table, they surely thought their victory was a certainty.
Even so, it makes him rather grateful for when they all part ways. It's certainly not the best of introductions, since his chivalric nature makes him prefer something more private to introduce himself to his Master. Especially so, seeing as she's of the fairer sex and afflicted with a physical weakness. Neither is anything he looks down upon, since he holds great respect for anyone who is able to call out and summon him, but. It's Gawain... ]
It's certainly a surprise. It is not often we Servants stand together as allies.
[ But even so, he smiles easily. ]
But the boisterousness is a bit nostalgic. I would hardly call it overwhelming, Master.
[ Though the allies he traditionally stood with were much more unified in skills and ideals... Even looking at the Servants gathered by this group of Masters, Gawain feels certain that they're much less unified. However, they're his allies, which is all that matters. Differences of ideals are something he hopes can be put aside for the war ahead. ]
Rider may have began introductions, but please, allow me to introduce myself to you more formally. [ They're still moving along to their destination, but Gawain makes a partial gesture of a formal, deferential bow. ] I am Gawain, Knight of the Round Table and the Knight of the Sun, and your Saber. I look forward to working with you, Master.
no subject
Date: 2019-04-26 03:30 pm (UTC)She's far too controlled to let such knowledge stagger her outwardly, but it's a quiet surge of pleased surprise and confidence that was only rivaled by the way she'd felt when she'd laid eyes upon the Greater Grail. That, even though she held no fondness for fighting and had ties to the magi of the Clock Tower as friends, there was proof that her wish could be granted if she was willing to fight for it.
She smiles now, rueful. Gawain calls it "nostalgic", but it does seem rather like a chaotic gathering with a few solemn, dignified Servants at odds with Astolfo's boisterous attitude and their Berserker's soft growls. His fellow knights were probably at least a little more put together than that. ]
It's a pleasure, Saber Gawain. You already know that I am your Master during the course of this war, but please allow me to introduce myself properly.
My name is Fiore Forvedge Yggdmillennia, successor of the Yggdmillennia clan. While I'm afraid you'll be expected to address me as Master in most situations, you may call me Fiore if you feel comfortable doing so when it remains only us.
I look forward to achieving victory with you.
no subject
Date: 2019-04-26 04:06 pm (UTC)...Not that it would matter too much, really. His own principles meant that even if his Master were his complete opposite, they would have his fealty, but. Naturally it would be a relief to anyone that their new partner was of similar mind. ]
It is no trouble. I would call you my Master regardless, though perhaps in private, Lady Fiore, if that doesn't trouble you.
[ He has enough knowledge of the era to know that way of addressing her is outdated and even corny, but... He'd do it anyways. ]
Either way, as I with you. My sword is yours to direct. [ After a moment's pause, he does add one more thing: ] And of course, anything else as well. I'll assist you in any way you need.
[ It's polite, and he's trying to be vague, but this is definitely an offer to help her with anything physical... gj gawain ]
no subject
Date: 2019-04-26 04:28 pm (UTC)It's probably for the best. ]
It... doesn't trouble me, no. [ Fluster her, though? Absolutely, though there's only a faint tint of pink in her face. ] And if it doesn't trouble you, I might request your assistance with pushing my wheelchair.
I am aware that it's not a task for a Servant, so please don't feel obligated.
[ This is a very polite duo, apparently. ]
no subject
Date: 2019-04-26 05:28 pm (UTC)anyways ]
[ Gawain nods, of course perfectly agreeable to this scenario, since it's what he was indirectly trying to ask. That, and that faint flush on her cheeks doesn't go beyond his notice, and he's happy to see it. He'll never tire of seeing that kind of reaction! ]
Think nothing of it—I would not consider it an obligation.
[ That's the basics of introductions that he needs to know, so now getting to know his new Master can be mingled in with more tactical concerns. ]
Then if you'll direct me, would you be able to give me a tour of the castle? I'd like to see where its strengths and weaknesses lie, and we can continue to talk along the way.
no subject
Date: 2019-04-26 05:51 pm (UTC)He's seen the throne area, where Lancer rules firmly, the workshops, and then it's down one of the long hallways to the rooms. ]
This is mine-- one hallway down to the left, three doors down would be your room. Between the homunculi and your connection with me, maintaining your physical form shouldn't be an issue, and this way, you'll be able to have your privacy when you need it.
no subject
Date: 2019-04-26 07:17 pm (UTC)For one, the homunculi. The rows and rows of artificial humans are unsettling, and it reminds him of the part of magic that's quite dark. Objectively, he knows that it's something of a necessity in modern day magic, but he can't help that little stirring in his heart that says that this is wrong. However, it's quick to pass. It's necessary is enough justification for him, because a war is about to begin. The materials needed to supply the effort has just changed.
The other, naturally, is the dungeon. Dungeons were never known for being particularly hospitable accommodations, but he still gets a sense that her warning is one he'll heed. The average dungeons of a castle are surely nothing compared to the domain of a magus. Moreso than the laboratory, Gawain thinks he would do well to stay away from this particular corner...
Though it is just interesting to explore the castle, admittedly. It's no Camelot (it's far, far gloomier), but he still feels a bit more at home within the cool stone walls than he might elsewhere. ]
You've really thought of everything, haven't you? [ He says it with a mild amusement in his tone, and it's clear that by "you" he really means the whole group of magi. But he nods, clearly finding none of this disagreeable. ] Then you need only call for me. I'll likely conserve as much magical energy as I can.
[ So even if neither is strictly necessary, he won't maintain his physical form when it isn't needed, and he'll sleep when time permits. Considering the planning put into everything else so far, he doesn't imagine magical energy will become an issue, but... Just in case. If even only two Servants needed to unleash their Noble Phantasms simultaneously, that's a huge amount of energy that's needed. ]
...Though, if I may be so forward, I would like to ask you a personal question. [ He looks to her room's door, as if asking if she wants to go inside before he does. ]
no subject
Date: 2019-04-26 07:29 pm (UTC)So she's noted his reaction to both the homunculi and the dungeons, and made sure not to forget them. A knight might have a harder time understanding the more pragmatic nature of a magus, with their code of chivalry, and she needs to keep that in mind. He's observant, and already preparing, which are both excellent traits.
Fiore nods when he speaks up again, simply murmuring a single word to unlock the door in front of her. It swings open without preamble, allowing the both of them access inside.
Her quarters are spacious, but sparsely decorated. A table, a tea set, her bed in the corner, a few matching chairs for guests, a desk piled neatly with paperwork and books... it's different from her workshop, but it's additionally one of the few places where she feels as though she can breathe easy. ]
What was it you wanted to ask of me, Saber?
no subject
Date: 2019-04-26 08:15 pm (UTC)It may be more in the realm of a curiosity than anything.
[ In her own room, he imagines she's likely fine to navigate on her own. He moves in front of her, since this question is one that he finds important, and therefore suited to say eye to eye. ]
If I may, why are you fighting to claim the Grail? What would you wish of it?
[ In a way, her answer would change little. Even if it was something that Gawain disagreed with, his loyalty wouldn't falter, which is why he thinks of it as a curiosity more than anything. Even if it was something he disagreed with, his personal code of chivalry meant that he would still give his all to help her claim it. ...Of course, that was also something of a bare minimum by his standards. If it was something he agreed with, then he would push himself much harder. ]
no subject
Date: 2019-04-26 08:40 pm (UTC)[ Fiore's smile turns sheepish as she glances down at her hands, before her gaze shifts back to Gawain's face. ]
It's very selfish of me... but the reason I'm in a wheelchair is because my Magic Circuits are in my legs and have caused a certain disability since my birth. As long as I remain a magus, I'll never be able to stand or walk on my own.
If I removed that, I would be able to, but I would no longer be a magus. I wanted to wish for a way to be able to use my legs and still retain my magecraft.
[ It's nothing noble. But it's what she's wanted, more than anything. ]
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Date: 2019-04-27 12:02 am (UTC)Still, his expression softens. It's sympathetic, but not condescending in the slightest. ]
Perhaps it is selfish, technically... But I understand it. I may not have skill with magic myself, but I know to lose such a craft would be the same as if I were to lose my training as a knight.
[ An impossible setback, in other words. ]
Thank you for telling me, Master. It may not be necessary for the fight ahead, and I apologize if I overstepped my bounds in any way. When waging a war, I like to know what it is I am fighting for. This is something I have no qualms with, so I shall do all I must to deliver you victory.
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Date: 2019-04-27 12:16 am (UTC)No... I'd already decided I wanted to remain on equal footing with you. I can hardly ask for your loyalty and your resolve if I'm not willing to share such matters with you.
[ Most importantly, he understands how much of a blow it would be to have to give up one thing over another. It's all she could have asked for. ]
... Is it all right, then, if I ask what your own wish would be?
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Date: 2019-04-27 04:49 am (UTC)I don't have a wish in particular.
[ There's a gentle earnestness to his answer, even if it might not sound entirely believable. From other Servant, it might seem like a lie to avoid the question, but with Gawain, it seems to be quite true. His expression is tinged with a bit of sadness, but it's an old one. His failing is one he's come to at least accept. ]
My wish is to do just this. I was not able to loyally serve my King in life, so I think of being a Servant as something of a penance for that. My sword will always shine brightest for King Arthur, should we ever cross paths again, but in the meantime, I only wish to give my Masters what I failed to give him.
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Date: 2019-04-27 05:00 am (UTC)It's not as large a wish as she had expected. But he's so earnest about it that there was never any doubt about his sincerity, just a sense of... melancholy, if she had to place a name to it. His own regrets had held him down long past his death, and that's a fate she wouldn't wish hon anyone. ]
I understand. I don't know how many Wars you'll be summoned to, or what relevance this one will hold for you, but as long as I'm your Master, I'll do my best to grant that wish for you.
[ "By letting you serve me to your utmost" sounds like a terrible thing to say, though, so she doesn't. ]
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Date: 2019-04-27 05:31 am (UTC)Now, it's nothing to frown over. It sounds a bit gloomy, but... I do not think of it as such. To serve is my second chance to do right by my oath, and I can think of nothing greater that even the Holy Grail itself could give me.
[ Though he does reach up to idly scratch at his neck, a bit of an awkward gesture, since it's still difficult to explain. He's not sure he would have ever reached this peace about it in life, even if Arthur had somehow miraculously triumphed in Camlann. It comes from a perspective that's distinctly inhuman, that part of him that's now an eternal being rather than one limited by a single lifespan. Even if it's his reality now, that difference is difficult for him to put into words. ]
You needn't concern yourself over me, though your kindness is not something I will spurn. After all, it is just as much my oath to protect a maiden's smile.
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Date: 2019-04-27 05:54 am (UTC)I can't say I'm entirely like the maidens you were probably familiar with, unfortunately.
But...
[ ... ]
Thank you, for your candor and your sincerity. I do happen to think we'll work well together.
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Date: 2019-04-27 08:58 pm (UTC)[ ...More or less. Technically, his king was, but even knowing that truth now, it's difficult for him to think of her as such. Arthur never showed that side of herself, so she would always be a king over anything else in his mind. ]
That simply makes that oath all the more pressing! I must resolve your worries, both as a knight and as your Servant. [ There's a playful laugh in his voice, but it doesn't really seem like he's joking... It seems that the knights of the Round Table are truly as gallant as stories say. ]
...But I do agree. I hope the same is true of the rest of the Masters and Servants.
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Date: 2019-04-27 09:34 pm (UTC)Fiore pauses to think of the current arrangement, tapping her chin. ]
I think Berserker will do well with my brother. He's not very delicate, but he seeks to understand and cooperate, so they should be a good match. Lancer is well-respected by his Master, as is Caster... Archer may have some difficulty with Uncle Gordes trying to be too commanding.
[ Haaa. ]
... I, er. Rider may have some trouble, as well, but as a Servant, he should be fine?
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Date: 2019-04-28 01:06 am (UTC)He's naturally curious about the Caster and Archer, since they're both quite mysterious, if for different reasons. Archer at least gave him the initial impression of being a gloomy, serious fellow, so he thinks they'll get along. It's not unlike another bow-wielding knight he knew in life.
However, any of the questions that would come from that quickly become secondary when it's mentioned Rider might have some trouble. His brow furrows together in curiosity, but his mind doesn't go anywhere near what his trouble might be... ]
Hm? Is this because of his forwardness? I hope he would not be punished for that.
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Date: 2019-04-28 01:27 am (UTC)Rather... it's his Master I'm more concerned about. She's, ah...
[ She pauses to clear her throat delicately. ]
... She takes great pleasure in torment, and... [ Help her. ]
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Date: 2019-04-29 01:52 am (UTC)[ There's definite concern in his voice, since he still doesn't quite get to the right conclusion. Or, well. He's like, half right, but the other half is important... ]
Even if he is a Servant, does that mean Sir Astolfo is at risk?
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Date: 2019-04-29 01:59 am (UTC)[ Gawain, please. She's already suffering. ]
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Date: 2019-04-29 02:06 am (UTC)...Haha, oh! Would you happen to mean torment more... [ Hm, how to put it. ] Well, to be polite, let us just say carnal?
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Date: 2019-04-29 02:18 am (UTC)... In his case, yes.
[ Outright torment for anyone not a Servant, though. Poor things. ]