The battle between Kiritsugu and Kayneth, though sparking intense discussions at the Imperial Mage Academy centered around the Mage's Tower, proved too confusing for the average audience. While the general public appreciated the unique abilities like Volumen Hydrargyrum and Time Alter, they found the cooperative fight between Saber and Lancer against Caster far more captivating.
As a result, while the duel between Kiritsugu and Kayneth failed to evoke much excitement among the general audience, the victory of Saber and Lancer over Caster brought about cheers. However, this jubilation was short-lived. When Kirei Kotomine defeated his opponent and drove a Black Key through Irisviel's chest, the theater erupted in gasps and screams.
"That guy is way too cruel! He already confirmed that Irisviel isn't a Master!"
"Yeah, it feels like every character in Fate/Zero has their own goals and convictions, except for Kirei Kotomine. He's completely aimless and inscrutable."
"But why do I feel like he's an important character? I have a hunch the plot will heavily involve him later."
"..."
As the discussions grew livelier, those who initially criticized Fate/Zero for being too drawn-out were now nowhere to be found. Instead, the audience who had been won over were fully engrossed, wishing for the film to go on for hours—even if it meant watching until dawn.
Yet, all good things must come to an end. Despite being an extended feature by Edward, Fate/Zero's first chapter drew closer to its climax: the legendary Banquet of Kings.
At the banquet, Rider laughed heartily after savoring Archer's exquisite wine and said:
"Archer, your supreme wine deserves no less than the Holy Grail itself. But alas, the Grail isn't meant for holding wine. We're here to evaluate if we deserve the Grail. So, why don't you tell us your reason for seeking it?"
"Hmph. The Holy Grail is rightfully mine. Every treasure in this world originates from my vault. Though it may have been lost to time, its rightful owner remains unchanged: me."
"So, are you saying you once owned the Grail? Do you know what it truly is?"
"No, you wouldn't understand. My treasures are beyond even my comprehension in their entirety. But as long as it's a treasure, it belongs to me. You thieves should have the self-awareness not to covet it."
"Then Archer, you're saying that we can obtain the Holy Grail if you agree to it?"
"Of course, but I have no reason to reward rats such as you."
"Are you reluctant to part with it?"
"Not at all. I reward my subjects and people. Rider, if you were to submit to me, I might grant you a cup or two."
"… Ah, now that's actually impossible, but Archer, you actually don't care if you have the Grail or not, right? It's not like you're competing for the Grail because you're trying to fulfil some wish."
"Of course. But I can't let go of the guy who robs away my treasure; this is a matter of principles."
"That's to say –"
"It's the law."
Archer replied calmly, "The law I set down as the king."
The audience hung on Archer's every word, eagerly awaiting his reasoning for seeking the Grail. Though his answer was arrogant, it fit perfectly with his identity as a king. To rule with absolute pride is to be a true king. While such pride might verge on tyranny, to the people, a confident and resolute monarch far surpasses one who is indecisive and incapable of keeping promises.
Though Archer's response did not necessarily make him likable, it was fitting and earned him a share of supporters—audience members who longed for a strong leader to inspire trust and confidence.
As the banquet continued...
"Rider, since you've already admitted the Grail belongs to someone else, why would you seek to take it by force? Why do you desire the Holy Grail?" Saber asked.
Rider chuckled awkwardly, taking a sip of wine before replying:
"I want to be human."
"Owww, you! Could it be you still want to conquer this world – waaaa!"
Before his Master could finish, Rider silenced him with a flick and shrugged.
"Idiot, how can I conquer the world in one lifetime? Conquest is my dream, and I can only bequest this first step to the Holy Grail."
"Mongrel… you're challenging me with such a silly wish?" Even Archer was speechless, but Rider spoke earnestly:
"Say, even when we appear in the current era due to prana, we are still Servants at the end. We originally do not exist in this world – although it feels a bit ridiculous, but are you really satisfied with just that? I'm not satisfied. I want to be reincarnated into this world, and live on as a human."
"..."
"Why… do you want a body so much?"
"Because that is the cornerstone of 'conquest'. Possessing a body, marching out towards the ends of the earth, carrying out my conquest – that is truly my way of kingship. But right now I don't have a body; that won't do. Without a body nothing can start anew. I'm not afraid of anything much; I just feel that I must have a body of flesh and bone."
Rider's answer, steeped in personal desire, struck a chord with many in the audience. His candid and selfish wish made him immensely likable. After all, who wouldn't want a leader who is straightforward, bold, and shares the joys and sorrows of their people? A leader who breaks barriers and speaks openly about desires? Rider's demeanor resonated with many, leaving them rooting for him to win the Holy Grail and fulfill his long-buried ambitions.
With the stage set, it was finally Saber's turn. In the hush that followed, the wishes of this steadfast and resolute knight were at last revealed to the audience.
<+>
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