The establishment of the Time Travelers Alliance began in the first year of Conan

Chapter 351 A Peaceful Day (Not Actually)
As we all know, in order to uphold the mystery of "mystery".

The Holy Grail War takes place at night when the Heroic Spirits begin their battles and there are few pedestrians around.

In other words, daytime is the agreed-upon truce time for everyone.

After all, it would be a real possibility if some large-scale, undeniable "mysterious leak" were to occur.

Neither the Magic Association nor the Holy Church will show any mercy to those involved.

This is why even Kiritsugu Emiya, who would use any despicable means to achieve victory, would not attack the "neutral" Church.

These guys are truly capable of "purifying" the entire population of an entire city.

After all, didn't Kiritsugu Emiya witness such a tragedy when he was still a child?
Those agents wielding the [Black Key] "purified" the entire island, which was beginning to leak its Dead Apostle status—

Undoubtedly, there were surviving children and adults among them, but they were all killed without exception on the grounds that "the risks were difficult to discern".

There was also Ode Bolzac, who caused his adoptive mother's death.

This guy is just an ordinary Dead Apostle.

But through the swarm of dead apostles, he completely destroyed the city he had previously lived in.

This is why Kiritsugu Emiya had to pin his hopes on the Holy Grail and pray for some kind of "miracle" to achieve his wish.

Of course, there's also the terrible consequence that Kiritsugu himself almost caused in the "historical inertia"—allowing the evil of this world to pour out.

In a sense, the lives of ordinary people in the Type-Moon world are quite tough.

Too many magicians who disregard ethics and morality can easily destroy a city with just a flick of their fingers.

Undoubtedly, an organization capable of occupying the "greater good" of the world and maintaining a minimum stable order under such circumstances possesses unimaginable strength and depth.

Therefore, strictly speaking, barring any unforeseen circumstances, the "principle of secrecy" in the Holy Grail War is actually followed quite well.

Unless it is—

A serial killer and high school student who is "accidentally" drawn into this Holy Grail War;

A magician whose father died early and who never received any proper magic training.

An old worm who deliberately plotted and was confident that he could remain hidden behind the scenes and go unnoticed;
There were also those who should have been referees, but instead "kept their information hidden" and even plotted against the "pleasure criminals" who had sent powerful allies from the church.

cough cough...

In short, aside from those who were drawn into this epic war because of "Fate".

In other cases, the Holy Grail War remains quite secretive.

After all, we are all legitimate magicians who don't care about human life.

This is just a ritualistic "academic exchange," so why risk being targeted by the Magic Association or the Church for the rest of your life?
If you lose but don't die, go to church to rest, or leave with your tail between your legs.

Even if he really dies, it's just because he wasn't skilled enough. He should "casually" admit it like Tokiomi Tohsaka and not blame anyone else.

not to mention--

"The association is really making a big splash..."

The open windows let in the fresh air after the rain.

Sitting in the rocking chair in the room, Tokiomi Tohsaka looked at the distant woodland, washed green by the torrential rain, and the deep brown earth, and couldn't help but sigh.

……

From the perspective of a magician and an ordinary person, respectively.

Everything that happened that day, and the "time" in which it took place, was perfectly normal.

However, it was a series of experiences including witnessing a terrifying storm like a typhoon passing through, evacuation sirens blaring throughout the city, and being "herded" into shelters like sheep.

On the other side, the Heroic Spirits and their Masters were engaged in a preliminary battle and subtle probing under the clear moonlight, preparing for tomorrow with their own satisfaction and anger.

In short, these matters only require a little investigation.

In fact, you can see a large number of expert reports simply by opening the news section the next day.

The fact that the entire population of Fuyuki City, 150 million people, experienced a massive shroud ritual cannot be concealed in any way.

Of course, this is actually attributed to "climate change".

Neither the "association" nor the "church" intended to conceal anything further.

This is also a major difference between the Type-Moon Universe and the Real Universe.

Local forces, such as the police and government, are nominally developing without interfering with the "magic world."

But if someone really tries to use so-called "official power" or "technological power" to carry out certain actions—

He will soon discover just how vast that shadow, known as "magic," truly is.

And the statement "The laws of physics are just a piece of paper on a planet" is such an accurate and true description.

……

Therefore, with the two major factions in Fuyuki City having their communication channels intercepted and controlled by the Alliance, the situation has become extremely tense.

Such an unusual scene went unnoticed by anyone.

In fact, if it weren't for adhering to the ancestral precept of "maintaining elegance,"

And the first thing that came to mind was that he had notified the association.

Tokiomi Tohsaka was so shocked that he could hardly get up from his chair.

Even a simple act like contacting the association took up almost all of his energy.

The meaning behind the simple phrase "changing the celestial phenomena" was very clear to the man named Tokiomi.

Therefore, after hearing that it was actually a phenomenon caused by the [Modern Magic Department] using some "alchemical potions" and "alchemical equipment" that he couldn't understand, he was shocked.

Tokiomi could be said to have breathed a huge sigh of relief.

In Tokiomi Tohsaka's view, it was just like his reflection on that scene:
"I never expected that even though I graduated from the Clock Tower and left the Association a long time ago, they would still be willing to lend such a helping hand at the cost of such a small amount of gems."

Tokiomi didn't think it was because the Clock Tower was sentimental.

"They probably gave their support because the two [Ancestors of the Dead Apostles] might come to Fuyuki, and also because they wanted to demonstrate against the [Church]."

……

In fact, after Tokiomi reported that Fuyuki City had been affected by such a massive spell.

Although it was very displeasing that as a king, he had to act like a spy.

But Gilgamesh, who had forgotten that he had gone out to scout once before, originally intended to go out and investigate.

Regardless, the fact that such a massive technique was being used without permission on his territory necessitates action.

Or, to put it another way, it's the case of the combination of "the theft of the spiritual veins" and "the alteration of celestial phenomena".

Although Gilgamesh was very unwilling to admit it.

But he did have a serious intention at that moment.

After all, he was just arrogant and conceited, not stupid and foolish.

Such an achievement as "changing the celestial phenomena" is something that no ordinary [Heroic Spirit] could accomplish.

But perhaps Tokiomi Tohsaka's tendency to "drop the ball" is contagious.

Or perhaps historical inertia has had a subtle influence.

After Tokiomi confirmed with the Magic Association.

Having found a reason, Gilgamesh immediately abandoned the seemingly "dispensable" reconnaissance mission.

After all, Gilgamesh knew very well—

Gods cannot be summoned casually.

In the eyes of this arrogant king, the sense of urgency that had arisen in his heart not long ago was already the greatest respect and caution he could show to things called "possibility".

After hearing Tokiomi's reflections on the association...

Leaning against the wall, he gave a disdainful snort and made his comments in a condescending manner.

"Hmph... I didn't expect that even after the Age of Gods has passed, modern magicians can still achieve such a level, but they are still far from being able to display the brilliance that I, the King, can display."

"That's natural, King of Heroes. It seems that such a technique was defeated by you before it could be fully unleashed."

Despite his flattering words, the old-fashioned magician wore a proud smile on his face, thanks to his "colleague's" achievements.

He tried hard to recall the message that had come from the phonograph that morning, and unusually, he said a few more words:
"The Hero King is said to have been created by the association using an alchemical potion called 'condenser' and an alchemical creation called 'rain bomb' to shatter the clouds."

Clearly, Tokiomi Tohsaka completely misunderstood some things.

Alas, it can only be said that "electronic idiocy" is a disease that the Tohsaka family urgently needs to cure.

Just like how Kirei Kotomine described his mentor:

“Even nowadays, it’s quite rare to find a magician as upright and old-fashioned as Tokiomi Tohsaka.”

If we were to describe his understanding of "technological creations," it would be to the point where he doesn't even know how to use a landline phone.

This is also why the alliance is not worried that Tokiomi will discover anything suspicious.

Even an ordinary person who has received a normal education can clearly know that the so-called "weather weapon" is currently absolutely impossible to achieve.

A typical mature typhoon can produce over 200 billion tons of rainfall in 24 hours, equivalent to about 126 days of the Yellow River's average natural flow.

The energy released per second is roughly equivalent to six Hiroshima atomic bombs.

If a country could achieve such a feat without easily conquering the world or triggering a world war, that would be truly strange.

"To induce the formation of a cloud layer that meets the conditions for rain" and "to create a passing typhoon".

—They are completely different things.

Of course, in Tokiomi Tohsaka's view, they were all pretty much the same.

Although he still cautiously checked the information.

But after confirming that these creations could indeed "bring rain," he, not understanding the difference, still equated them.

……

It can only be said that the Alliance's handling of each individual's character and their grasp of cause and effect is exquisite.

Because everything is perfectly natural and logical. All that's needed is to dispel Tokiomi Tohsaka's suspicions through the hijacked communication lines.

The subsequent response was then a matter of course.

Similarly, due to a sudden change that occurred overnight.

Kirei Kotomine and Risei Kotomine inquired with Tokiomi about what course of action should be taken next.

What they received was Tokiomi Tohsaka's slightly smug voice from the jewel phonograph.

"Yes, this is indeed a move by the [Association] to prevent 'mysterious leaks'."

All the Alliance needs to do is subtly hint at this to put pressure on the Church.

Tokiomi accepted the matter without hesitation.

He should even be grateful to you!

Tokiomi Tohsaka was deeply grateful to the two former disciples who were about to arrive in Fuyuki.

If it weren't for the fact that Fuyuki City was about to receive a large number of reinforcements from the Church due to the Dead Apostles, the Association wouldn't have been able to go to such lengths.

Tokiomi Tohsaka was aware that Dead Apostles could infect ordinary people and turn them into "ghouls".

"Therefore, please also inform the church, Mr. Risei."

Tokiomi Tohsaka provided an explanation that the Association had already prepared.

"This is a precaution taken by the [Association] to prevent any traces of the Dead Apostles from appearing in Fuyuki City. Please rest assured, [Church]."

Tokiomi's response gave Kotomine Risei a headache.

However, it is true that the Church withdrew its personnel from Fuyuki City to guard against the Dead Apostles.

"Yes, I will pass on the message to Father Raymond."

He thought about it for a moment and then told his friend his idea.

“I will try to persuade him to temporarily refrain from hostility towards the Association, considering the arrangements made by the Eighth Mystery Society and the Church. After all, the Church must also abide by the principles of mystery.”

Kotomine Ryougi paused, turned to look at his son, and spoke at his prompting.

"Furthermore, Kirei has already had Assassin search for traces of Servants in the city. Once he finds anything, he will use the excuse of the 'spiritual vein' being stolen to get that knight commander to set off."

"Yes, I will cooperate with that person's actions. If he needs the corresponding evidence, as a certified ley line manager of the [Association], I will provide the reasons."

After saying that, the two of them laughed like old foxes.

Yes--

Nowadays, whether it's the Church or the Mage's Association, the key figures in both are on Tokiomi's side.

Even after Tokiomi Tohsaka thought about it carefully, he couldn't figure out how he would lose.

"I can only say that I am blessed by the ancestral master."

Tokiomi Tohsaka sighed.

"It seems that this time, my Tohsaka family will finally be able to fulfill our ancestor's last wish."

Kotomine Risei knew very well how much effort his friend had put in for this moment.

He felt the same heartfelt joy that his friend was about to fulfill his long-cherished wish.

The two chatted for a few more minutes in a relaxed and cheerful mood.

After discussing that the Church would arrange for someone to inform all Masters that they did not need to worry about yesterday's situation, they cut off contact with each other.

……

Unlike Weber, who "suddenly realized" after receiving the "church's" notification and was severely reprimanded by the Conqueror King for not easily believing the "church's" words.

The renowned monarch of the Clock Tower.

Kenneth El-Melloi Archibald.

At that moment, he felt a nameless fear.

The magician's first action was to force himself to calm down.

"Yes...maybe it's some kind of large-scale technique, no, maybe it's some kind of technique specifically designed for a small area."

With this in mind, the monarch of the Clock Tower began to verify the absurd contradiction.

Thus, the "isolated computing machine" named [Moon Spirit Marrow Liquid] finally unleashed its true power.

The "tentacles" made of mercury transformed into the most sensitive probes.

Meanwhile, its internal calculation device, isolated from the "outside world," precisely captures all traces of techniques and magic.

As the computer produced more and more absurd conclusions, Kenneth finally couldn't help but roar.

"What a joke... There's absolutely no trace of... any large amount of magic power or ley lines being mobilized..."

The sound of muttering to oneself echoed in the room.

"Such a slight residual magic power couldn't even make an ordinary person dizzy for a moment... and it lasted for an entire night..."

But the [Moon Spirit Marrow Liquid] actually thinks "everything is normal"?!

"That's ridiculous!"

The magician then questioned and inspected the two service staff members who had been summoned from the 32nd floor.

The hypnotized servants then reported what they had seen to this guest they considered a distinguished person.

"Everything is normal. It's just a storm cyclone that makes everyone want to take refuge."

"According to the records, Mr. Kenneth should have been notified as well."

"The sirens were so loud, they could have been heard by everyone."

"As for when it rained... if I remember correctly, it lasted all night, and it was even reported on the news."

The response he received sent a chill down Kenneth's spine.

This is simply ridiculous!
He and Sora had been in the room the whole time.

Even when they were talking about "dark clouds obscuring the moon," I could still see the moon!

Kenneth completely scoffed at the so-called "church's" seemingly organized explanation.

He glanced at the letter sent by the church and casually stuffed the nonsense into the magic furnace to burn it.

He is one of the most prestigious monarchs of the Clock Tower, belonging to one of the two major noble factions.

He's not some country magician who only knows jewel magic, or Waver, who's just an apprentice at the Clock Tower.

How could I not know that the Magic Association or the Holy Church could perform a spell involving "time" that affects over a million people?

Yes, that's what really alarmed Kenneth.

The dates on both sides don't match!
All of this contradicted Kenneth's understanding of magic.

This is no longer a question of which side is lying.

Something's wrong, very wrong.

"It's simply impossible! How could the world allow such a technique—"

He suddenly looked up.

Lancer's words from yesterday are still fresh in my mind.

Although the proud magician was reluctant to admit it, it now seems that Lancer might be telling the truth.

Now we are in big trouble!
A truly connected, earthly deity?
The magician immediately called Lancer, who was searching for an adversary on the street, back to the hotel.

He asked with an extremely solemn expression:
"Lancer, are you sure that the goddess herself told you about changing the celestial phenomena?"

Lancer lowered his head, then his eyes lit up.

"Yes, my lord, that is indeed what the goddess said."

Lancer even carefully recalled every word Hisayuu Maiya had said.

To increase the credibility of his statement, he added:
“Even before the celestial phenomena were altered, I heard one of the incantations, which should mean ‘Replace, the principle of the planet called Fabric.’”

Lancer's words made Kenneth truly understand what it meant to "go black out."

A god who wants to build the entire city into his own temple.

A goddess associated with "time," perhaps in a state of ultimate victory...

At this moment, Kenneth was already thinking about how to get back to the Clock Tower immediately.

But then he realized a problem.

—Those two Geasa dishes.

"Lancer, are you confident you can bring me victory tonight?"

Diarmuid looked up abruptly, his eyes regaining their sparkle.

"My lord, I swear by the honor of a knight!"

"Yeah……"

Looking at the knight before him, still speaking with unwavering loyalty, and the unhealed scar on his face.

Kenneth's tone also revealed a rare hint of complexity.

In a sense, his life and the way to break free of the curse depend on Lancer's blade.

As Diarmuid's heart sank once again due to his lord's silence, Kenneth slowly spoke.

"Before tonight arrives, I will try to create a ceremonial garment for you to use, which will enhance the magic that reveals your demonic appearance."

—For this magician with a strong sense of self-esteem.

This was clearly a very "difficult" apology, even a sign of backing down.

Lancer clearly understood his lord's meaning.

He lowered his head again: "My lord, I will definitely find a way to break Geasa for you!"

(End of this chapter)