C20: Sakura Petals (1), It's Perkin' Time

A/N: Sorry, sorry. There will be a chapter tomorrow, promise. It's super difficult to think up new Perks that wouldn't make Leo instantly OP.  

""THREE!!!"" We chorus, launching at each other at speed that'd leave a normal person rearing just to keep up with our movements as my Mystic Code clashes with his. Opening the battle by flinging Black Keys at me, the priest slides across the floor as if he's skatting, then his feet twist, acting like a break and causing all the momentum of his charge to pour into the Black Keys.

Normally, I would have batted the projectiles aside or dodged, which would have left one side exposed and vulnerable to his attack. But with [Kinetic Shield] in place, that's no longer an issue. And due to how the Spell operates, a small percentage of the pressure that deflected the priest's attack is diffused around me, giving me just enough momentum to swing the other way and catch him by surprise.

For a brief second, something akin to surprise flashes in his eyes, but nobody can accuse Kirei of being a greenhorn, as he quickly shrugs it off, his Black Keys catching my spear midair in a death grip.

'As expected…' That alone wouldn't be enough, but thankfully, I have thought ahead. After deflecting the three Black Keys, my total Mana units had gone down by 3%.

I have plenty left to play around with.

With a violent sweep, I snapped the Black Keys in half, effectively reducing his weapons to three.

Most Black Keys really aren't made to last.

They're disposable, same as the Executioners bearing them.

'Let's see how you deal with this!'

Activating [Kinetic Blast], I sneakily change the direction of Sena Esitazione to slip through his defenses…

This time, I do manage to catch him off-guard.

The wound I make is barely a scratch, but that's enough for [Tyche's Favor] to kick in. Fortune and its opposite always come hand-in-hand, hopefully the Greek Goddess of RNG will give me something good. Feeling a portion of my Mana slip into the Mystic Code, I smile as a crimson hue settles on the priest, and the name of the Curse instantly enters my mind. '[Ares' Bloodletting]?'

Although an explanation to the Curse isn't provided, I can still roughly guess its function by the name.

Kirei seems to have noticed the abnormality as well.

Typically, such an injury—a papercut really—should've closed in seconds. [Reinforcement] can enhance more than just pure Stats; it can also boost the body's natural healing factor, although Kirei looks to be struggling with it, which's likely caused by [Ares' Bloodletting] hindering both his natural and supernatural regenerations.

If Kirei wants to use [Reinforcement] to heal, he must first dispel the Curse, which will require concentration—something the priest just doesn't have to spare at the moment, not with me still hot on his heels.

"Credit where credit's due,"

Blood spilt from the wound and blending in with his black shirt, the priest wipes the oozing injury away defiantly before continuing, "That was a nice trick—!"

But I'm not Goku; I don't stick around for my enemies to finish their transformation or deliver their prepared speech. The first few seconds are all about luring them into a false sense of security, before striking.

'Precision is key… Be precise, be deadly. Every motion should serve to assist the next." Memory of Kiritsugu's teachings flashes in my mind.

A person's habits can reveal much about their character. When someone is deeply passionate about something, that passion tends to manifest in their lifestyle and demeanor. The Magus Killer exemplifies this with his sharp analytical skills for life-and-death situations. In contrast, the priest likes to use a completely different approach—the infamous 'gunblazing' method I myself am a huge fan of.

Problem is: How can the disciple hope to match the master?

I have received only but a small fraction of the intense, unforgiving training that Kirei was forced to endure back at the Church.

Even while being battered and bruised, my experience simply pales in comparison to the brutal trials the priest underwent to become an Executioner.

As perfect as his mask of indifference, glimpses occasionally seep through, still—glimpses I've caught on multiple occasions, whenever he's leaning too much in his desire for destruction… I am fairly certain he harbors a deep hatred for Humanity as a result of the torturous conditioning the Church forces unto him.

Not that Kirei was ever normal, but like most psychopaths, I'm convinced he could have fit into society, on the surface at least, if only he had not been exposed to the destructive side of the Supernatural so early on in life…

Even when caught with his pants down, the priest's ability to recover is truly remarkable. Clash after clash, our weapons meet, until his inevitably give way, shattering to fragments in the final impact. Seizing the momentum to adjust his stance, just as he had done earlier, Kirei squares his feet, arm cocking next to his waist, and lashes out with a punch.

Typically, the attack would have landed in the solar plexus, but since I am currently a 'mini person', literally, it is aimed directly at my head instead.

Raising Senza Esitazione to block the strike, I grunt as the force shatters my guard and sends me sliding back several feet. "Bajiquan?"

I've never been able to force him to use anything besides the wall of Black Keys before. Looks like I will finally get to experience 'Super Bajiquan' firsthand tonight.

I shrug the pain off, instantly activating [Reinforcement] to boost my healing factor and [Alteration] to realign the fragments of my bones.

'Seems [Kinetic Shield] still has room for improvement…' It did register the full force of Kirei's attack, but was unable to fully block it, most likely due to the concentrated nature of the strike.

If I have to describe it, Kirei's basically enhancing his kicks and punches with a version of [Mana Burst] compressed to maximize his damage output on a single target, meanwhile Artoria's

Whereas Artoria's spreads into a cone of sort, his releases several straight, narrow bursts from his knuckle.

In a similar fashion to Itadori's [Black Flash], these bursts are released in the moments after the initial strike—milliseconds later, in fact, which further confuses the sensor.

Even with my Mana flowing as quickly as the algorithm can direct, it couldn't gather the energy to release the counter in time. That's why Kirei was able to so easily break through my defenses. "I can't believe it… You're getting better, your Highness!"

Though his voice jumps a pitch, his face remains impassive still. "But it was rather unsportsmanlike of you to strike when I was talking. I suppose it was on me," Retrieving a bandage roll from his pocket, the priest begins to wrap his fists all the way to his forearms. "I failed to teach you proper manners… Please rest assured, I shall not make such a mistake twice."

His voice trails off as he finishes wrapping his fists in pristine white bandages, before barreling towards me like a humanoid cannonball. Originally, I had believed he was more adept with the [Iron Plate] and other throwing techniques common to the Church, but now, forced onto the defensive in mere seconds, I can see I was mistaken.

Even his techniques with the Black Keys have been seamlessly blended and refined with his Bajiquan mastery.

If I have to be honest, using the Black Keys doesn't seem to be of much help to him, if at all.

It's not just because the priest is a master in Bajiquan, but also because his fighting style perfectly counters mine from this distance. Maybe Nasu had a point when they decided to give the Lancer Class such high agility.

In reality, most soldiers in medieval times carried both a spear and a short sword. The spear is great against cavalry and offers strong defense from a distance, but once you're up close? Useless, if not counter-productice to the person wielding it.

Lancers need to be quick and constantly moving to survive, for getting caught means, "You're dead, your Highness!" Kirei arrogantly remarks, restraining my Mystic Code with one hand while preparing to strike with the other. Luckily, I've already wizened up.

With a thought, the spear disappears in an instant, the sudden loss of resistance causing the priest to lurch forward.

I also stumble, narrowly avoiding the punch while maneuvering behind him.

Then, I drive the spear's butt into the ground, propelling myself upwards and thrusting towards his spine.

Kirei always dodges… Always!

But he fails to this time.

The spear would skewer him if left to finish the motion, hence why I'm forced to use [Kinetic Blast] to change the course of the Mystic Code, just grazing the side of his stomach instead as he delivers a back-kick that sends my small frame crashing into a wall, the impact shaking the Church to its foundation as though a violent earthquake had just passed.

Even though [Kinetic Shield] manages to nullify most of the impact—a good 70% to 80% I'd say, I still end up in a miserable state.

Still, in spite of the injuries, a smirk graces my lips. "I could have killed you, Kirei."

I remind him, taunting the priest as I stand up, dusting off the expensive attire gifted to me by a local brand I endorse, while he stares at me with a blend of shock, horror, pride, anger, and a hint of begrudging admiration swirling in his eyes.

"Yes… You could have."

For a fraction of a moment, he looks like he wants to ask, 'Why didn't you?' But refrains. Truth be told, I am wondering the same thing myself. I could have rid myself of a thorn at my side… Could've saved myself the troubles in the future.

My body acted faster than my brain, sadly. "Class dismissed, your Highness."

I look at him in confusion. "Wait, that's it? No sarcastic remark; no snarky comeback? Who are you, and what have you done to the shitty priest?!"

Again, Kirei gives no response, storming out of the room in silence under my gaze.

Blinking at his departure, I scratch the back of my head. "Yikes…"

I'm fairly certain the wound I left on his ego is more severe than the physical injuries.

Casting a weary glance at the trail of blood, I summon Senza Esitazione and dispels: [Ares' Bloodletting] with naught but a wave… Would be a waste for him to bleed out after all that.

"It is my turn to clean up today."

Dinner's unexpectedly tense.

No matter how hard I try to crack jokes and engage in banter, Kirei just seems completely disconnected.

The following day's breakfast and lunch fare no better.

Fed up with the oppressive atmosphere, I opt to dine at the Emiya Residence. I'm gearing up to fight a entire Magus House to save the guy's daughter, the least Kiritsugu can do is provide me a meal.

Heading towards the Magus Killer's residence, I accidentally bump into someone at a corner. Although I manage to keep my balance, the girl is so delicate that even a light breeze could've sent her tumbling, let alone a superhuman.

"Apologies, mis—"

My words falter as our eyes lock—her lavender gaze meeting my emerald ones. 'Matou Sakura… Formerly Tohsaka Sakura. Rin's sister, Zouken's adopted granddaughter, and a vessel infested with parasites for the Lesser Grail.'

Instantly, my mind instinctively recalls all the data available about her, a tingling sensation running down my back.

I'd rather not meet the Worm this soon.

"It's alright."

The girl mumbles—breaths the words out, in fact. "It's my fault… I wasn't paying attention."

My hand instinctively grasps her wrist—an action I hadn't intended.

I have never liked Sakura as a character, never disliked her either.

Back when I was playing the visual novel as a child, I never cated for the Heaven's Feel Ending.

The fact the route ended with Artoria's death puts a peculiar distaste on my tongue.

Perhaps that's why I feel no emotional connection to her character… For me, she simply exists.

Internally, every aspect of my personality wars like they're starring in a Three Kingdoms remake.

Logic advises me to release her, since it's really not worth drawing Zouken out of the parasite-infested hovel it calls a mansion;

Yet, my conscience insists that if anyone in this town needs comfort the most, it's her.

A nagging feeling right at the center suggests I may be overly paranoid.

She did visit Shirou frequently to the Emiya Residence before the Fifth War broke out.

But, is it still paranoia if it's Zouken? "Is something the matter?"

With a curious tilt of her head, Sakura bores into my face with a gaze that seems bottomless, almost.

"Well—" You're an actor, Leo. Act! "I'll feel terrible if I don't offer you a coffee after that."

"It really is fine."

She reiterates.

"Please, I insist."

I give another pull, uncertain if I truly want to kick off this specific storyline so early on in the the 'Game'.

Might as well…

As long as the Worm does not feel threatened by my presence, he should leave us to our devices.

I can always set it aside and focus on other storylines first. Moreover, a conversation couldn't hurt, right? Worst case scenario, Zouken decides to stalk me, but with the Golden Queen's growing NEET personality, it won't dare approach the Church.

Despite the resilience and adaptability of the Crest Worms, the [Gate of Babylon] boasts armaments capable of killing almost anything—Mystic Codes designed to take down monsters; Noble Phantasms crafted to vanquish even the Gods.

There must be a weapon among those useful against the Worm, and even as addled as his mind is after nearly 5 centuries of degradation, Zouken must have realized this too.

The Church's a safe-zone—probably the safest in town.

Together, we enter a nearby coffee called Ahnenerbe, 'Sounds German…'

Luckily, gass isn't in the menu. 'Dark, Leo, too dark.'

After calling for our respective drink—black coffee for me and tea for the girl—we sit in silence, sipping on the beverages while the clouds pass by. It's a bit awkward, but it isn't like I have anything to say. We share next to no similarities beyond Magecraft, and that topic's one even someone as tactless as I am knows to avoid.

It would be like rubbing salts on a festering wound.

I feel for Sakura, I do, but her personality… Counters mine, literally.

My whole 'sthick' is cracking jokes to lighten the mood in difficult situations… But there is simply no joke that could address hers without potentially making things that much worse for the girl.

She's my antithesis—the kryptonite to my Superman. "You know, I have this friend. Kinda reddish orange hair, amber eyes, I think you'd like her."

'No reaction,' I carefully read her expression and conclude in an instant. 'This Sakura hasn't had the encounter with Shiro yet.'

Following 30 minutes of uncomfortable silence, Sakura attempts to make a quick exit, but I stop her in her tracks and redirect my attention to the waitress—a girl who bears a striking resemblance to Rin, except her hair's green, instead of the familiar dark brown shade. To clarify, I don't plan on making Sakura foot the bill for the drinks. "Excuse me, miss, could you please get me a pen and paper?"

"You crippled or what? What kind of student doesn't even have a pen on him?"

'So much for the renowned Japanese hospitality and etiquette…'

My lips twitch as a wave of annoyance surges through me. "The kind who can substantially improve your evening if you simply do as I request."

Narrowing her eyes, the waitress regards me skeptically. "And how'd you do that?"

Retrieving a bill from my pocket, I place it in her palm and close her fingers around it, whispering discreetly. "I'll give you another one after. Deal?"

Her countenance suddenly brightens with enthusiasm. "Just a moment, sir!"

Sakura and I watch as the waitress darts off. "…What delightful personality she has."

I've been repeatedly outdone as a capitalist far too frequently of late… Perhaps I should commit some truly atrocious, reprehensible act to regain my standing as the undisputed No. 1 sleazy merchant Eastside of the Earth itself.

I want Jordan Belfort himself to look upon me with utter revulsion and dread; I want the Wall Street stockbrokers to see me and think, 'What a fucking psycho.'

Only then will I be able to rest easy, secure in the knowledge that I've truly triumphed in life.

After jotting down my number on a napkin, I put the piece in Sakura's hands. "Whenever you need to talk or blow off some steam, give me a call."

With any luck, I can make her the hero-wannabe's problem, 'cause this was about as awkward as an outing could possibly get.

The plum-haired girl gives me a quizzical stare, but doesn't reject, gently folding the napkin and shoving it in her pocket.

"Thank you for the drink,"

She says, her voice trailing off as she eyes me with a puzzled expression. "I don't believe we've properly introduced ourselves. I'm Matou Sakura…"

I'm about to respond with my typical 'I already knew that' routine, but then I recall who I'm conversing with.

Engaging in that sort of behavior would only earn her mistrust, and I really do not want to deal with Dark Sakura…

That bitch be slinging Noble-Phantasm Spells around more than dealers sling 'candies' on holidays.

Instead, I opt for a more straightforward approach. "Leonis Magnus."

Shelving the meeting to the back of my mind, my day continues as normal, only it is anything but.

Today's the big day,

Today, I finally get AP to spend.

If my calculations are correct, I estimate that I crash-landed into this world and this physical form around 8:13, give or take a window of ten to twenty minutes, maybe even less.

The activation of the Perk Tree occurred mere seconds after that landing, which means I will be receiving my AP during the timeframe between 8 and 9 PM.

As I watch the clock slowly tick away, the promised hour gradually approaches, my heart racing with anticipation until…

*DING!*

The notification was so subtle that I might have missed it entirely had I not been paying rapt attention. 'Sneaky bastard,' I muse to myself. That quiet chime was underhanded from that prick of a God.

What does he know about girls, anyway? Saber's best.

With a flick, I summon the [ToI], once again within the blessed holy land for every Gamer genre enthusiast.

The center column now shows the number, '104'.

That's 104 AP I have to spend, and I'll be damn sure to treasure each point.

In fact, I have already prepared a list of Perks that are must-have to confront the Einzbern. I already have an offense and defensive options so the [Armament] canopy will be last.

What I need the most currently is Mana,

As I am now, a battle of attrition will end with me dead 20 times out of 10, and somehow I get the feeling the albino 'master race' won't let her go without a long, drawn-out fight that will in all likelihoods take several DBZ episodes to cover.

Let's just hope there's not a lot of yelling.

I need my vocal cords to work properly for the upcoming fund-raising event I've been asked to participate…

Apparently, a few politicians from the US will be attending, and the general consensus is a familiar face—one of a 'hero' to boot will be more favorable to the relation between the two countries. "[A touch of Magic (II)]."

> Your Path as a heretical Spells-slinger has progressed slightly.

> Effects:

>> All 25 Circuits gets upgraded to F+

And so 12AP are gone in less than a second.

My heart bleeds as the mumber plummets to 92.

> Error: 404—3 Circuits Not Found!

My lips curve as I pray to the RNG Gods. 'Compensation, please!'

Then, another notification flashes before my eyes—Obsession's.

> Hardy-Har-Har. I see whatchu' tryin' to do here, but since I'm in such a good mood today, I'll allow it. In fact, I'll even give you something for your troubles!

A new Branch sprouts, its icon displaying a three—the Tree itself.

Much like the [Void], [Mechanics] does not branch out, but is instead a singular line of Perks, the first of which is: [Rapid Blessings!]. The Perk resets the Heat Meter essentially.

It's also a 1 time consummables, by the way, all for the meager price of 12 AP.

Hmm, I'm surprised the God did not include the 'Only $11.99' trick as well…

I'd definitely have if I were in his shoes, if only for the meme. Clutching my side, I groan as 3 new Circuits are formed, bringing the total to 25 Circuits—28 if I count the ones currently in my Crest. 'Nice.'

Next, I take the Upgrade for [Efficiency is KEY!], gaining another 5% to Spell Efficiency for 24 AP.

"68 left…"

This should reduce the Mana cost for both [Kinetic Blast] and [Shield], allowing me to fling Spells around for much longer. For a brief moment, I consider adding all my Circuits into the Crest to finesse the [ToI] again, but the giant '48' staring back at me swiftly deters the thought.

If I did purchase it, the [Heat Meter] will jump to Brown, and I'll have 20 AP left that I can't spend without putting out another 12 on the [Mechanics] Branch, leaving me with just 9 Points to play around with—too little to afford anything that'll make a significant difference. My gaze switches to [Body]. Maybe I can push past the F-Rank…

Mind made up, I purchase the second Upgrade to [Weakest of the Strong] and unlock a new Perk.

>> WARNING: WHEN THE HEAT METER REACHES BLACK, YOU'LL HAVE 10 SECONDS TO PREPARE BEFORE EXPULSION!!!

I was hoping it'd boost me to E-Rank, but, "[Hyper Metabolism]?"

> Thou asked for strength, and the FLESH giveth! "Obesity? Is that a new kind of food?!" — Said the man who can never get fat.

> Effects:

>> Burn through stored fat; nutrients and convert to burst of explosive energy. Doubles all physical Stats for 60 minutes at the cost of [Lehargy]; [Malnutrition] Debuffs which halve all physical Stats until the lost nutrients have been replaced.

Without any hesitation, I buy the Perk, then [Rapid Blessings!] next to reset the [Heat Meter], and grimaces. It is exactly the kind of Perk I need to give myself a leg up, but the cost is just, 'Good fucking golly.'  

20 AP left.

I feel like I've gone from a millionaire to a beggar in seconds…

The Emiya Crest better be worth it.

"Let's hold onto these for rainy days."

— — —

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