This Is My Holy Grail War [72]

Caster had left, walking out of the room right in front of Assassin without imposing any further restrictions. There were no barriers or commands to keep her in place—just a casual allowance for her to move freely.

In this sanctuary known as Ryuudou Temple, Assassin could go wherever she pleased. The entire temple, after all, was part of Caster’s workshop.

When Assassin slid open the door, she was greeted by the sight of a luminous full moon high in the sky.

The temple, bathed in moonlight, looked pale and sparse. The faintly purple sheen of the stone tiles glinted faintly under the soft glow of the moon.

The night lent the temple an eerie atmosphere. The silence was profound, oppressive even, though magical energy pulsed visibly through the air, an undercurrent of activity in the stillness.

Following the path of stone tiles, Assassin reached the temple’s main gate.

A barrier enveloped the area, repelling spiritual entities. The gate served as the only exit unless the barrier was broken.

“That’s far enough.”

The voice came before the figure did.

A long blade suddenly appeared in Assassin’s path, barring her way forward.

“No exit beyond this point. If you’re upset, blame that fox of a woman,” said the man, stepping forward into the moonlight.

He was strikingly handsome, dressed in a traditional ronin’s garb, with long hair that swayed in the night breeze. His blade was long enough to rival the length of a spear.

“While I’m not fond of that fox either, orders are orders. Tonight, you’ll have to stay put.”

Facing the man, Assassin composed herself, adjusting her demeanor.

“Hey, are you listening?” The man frowned, his voice sharp as he noticed Assassin’s momentary daze.

“I’m not trying to leave,” she replied calmly.

“Oh?” His brows rose in mild surprise. “Then what are you doing here?”

“I came to find you.”

The unexpected answer left him momentarily speechless.

“Me?”

“Yes, you.”

“And why’s that?”

“Sasaki Kojirou,” she said, her tone resolute. “I want to learn the sword.”

Assassin’s unwavering gaze bore into him, her intent clear and without pretense.

“Teach me. Whether it’s the killing techniques of a swordsman or the secrets of the [Tsubame Gaeshi]—it doesn’t matter.”

Her voice carried a rare passion, her cheeks flushed with determination.

Sasaki Kojirou’s lips twitched into a faint smile. “So, you know my name. Looks like you and that fox get along well.” He paused, his gaze narrowing.

“But learning the sword isn’t child’s play. Ordinarily, I’d have no reason to teach someone. But since we’re both Servants and comrades in this war, I suppose it wouldn’t hurt to share my craft.

“Still, I’m nothing more than a nameless man using the title of Sasaki Kojirou—a mere shadow of the famed swordsman. Knowing that, do you still wish to learn from me?”

“Yes,” Assassin replied without hesitation.

Kojirou’s smile deepened, though his tone turned contemplative. “Before we start, shouldn’t you test my swordsmanship first?

“I’ve never placed much stock in this borrowed name, but it’s amusing that it’s attracted a curious Servant like you. An Assassin who hides in the shadows, instead of perfecting her craft of stealth, seeks the art of the blade. How curious.”

“Are you suggesting a fight?” Assassin asked, her eyes gleaming with anticipation. Her stance shifted slightly, her presence radiating sharp resolve.

“I’ll give it my all, if that’s what you want.”

Kojirou chuckled, shaking his head. “No, no. I didn’t mean a duel.”

“Then what?”

“If I’m to teach you, I must know what you’re capable of. A student’s foundation matters greatly. For all I know, you might already surpass me. In that case, what right would I have to instruct you?”

“I have no foundation,” Assassin admitted bluntly. “I can’t even hold a sword properly. I rely on brute force, swinging my weapon in hopes of cutting down my enemies—nothing more.”

“So, you wish to tilt the scales of victory in your favor?” Kojirou asked, his expression thoughtful. “Teaching from scratch isn’t impossible.

“But, Assassin, are you willing to pay the price? My swordsmanship isn’t a commodity, but it’s not something I hand out freely, either.”

At his words, Assassin hesitated for a moment before turning away.

Under the pale moonlight, her shadow stretched long behind her as she walked toward the darkness, leaving Kojirou alone by the gate.

“Why are you leaving, Assassin?” Kojirou’s voice called after her, halting her retreat.

Assassin stopped in her tracks, her figure half-concealed in the shadows.

“I have nothing to offer,” she replied, her voice heavy with resignation. “I can’t pay the price.”

Kojirou sighed, shaking his head as he reached into his robes and produced two bamboo flasks of sake.

“How about this, then? Sit with me and share a drink.” He tossed one of the flasks toward Assassin, who caught it reflexively.

It was a simple gesture, but it carried a surprising warmth.

“I’ve got nothing to my name but this sword and some sake,” Kojirou said with a self-deprecating smile. “This round’s on me.”

Assassin blinked, caught off guard. “You’re saying the price… is just drinking with you?”

“Exactly,” Kojirou replied cheerfully. “Loneliness doesn’t bother me much, but company is always better. If you enjoy it, even better. Almost lost a fine apprentice over such a small thing.”

Assassin uncapped the bamboo flask, and a faint, pleasant aroma wafted out. It wasn’t strong—the light scent of sake was interwoven with the natural fragrance of bamboo.

Taking a small sip, she found the drink mild, its alcohol content surprisingly low.

This isn’t even strong enough to get drunk, she thought, mentally classifying it as more of a lightly stimulating beverage than true alcohol.

—

T/N: The Regend himself

This is a fan translation of 这是我的圣杯之战 by 向希望祈祷. All rights to the original work belong to the creator. Please support them by exploring their original work or sharing it with others if you can. Thank you for reading and supporting my efforts to bring this story to a wider audience!