299. Ten Years of Life and Death, Both Lost in Vastness; Unbidden Thoughts, Unforgettable Longing

Looking at the man who was both unfamiliar and familiar, Sakura's heart rippled like a lake brushed by a spring breeze.

Standing before Iori, she unconsciously clenched the hem of her skirt, her fingertips trembling slightly with nervousness.

Their eyes met, and at last, unable to contain her excitement, she threw herself into Iori's arms.

Sakura pressed her cheek tightly against his chest, feeling his steady, powerful heartbeat and the warmth of his body, as though she had returned to that pitch-black night ten years ago.

Iori smiled faintly, raised a hand, and gently stroked Sakura's hair, exactly as he had done ten years ago.

Sakura looked up, tears glimmering in her eyes. Her voice was tinged with a sob as she said, "It's been ten years, Big Brother."

Iori gazed at her, his tone gentle as he replied with a smile, "It's been a long time, Sakura."

After a pause, he asked, "Did you summon me this time for the Holy Grail War as well? And why was the incantation you chanted exclusive to the Tohsaka House?"

Sakura's expression grew complicated as she explained softly, "Oh, I got it from my sister. After all, the Tohsaka House is one of the Three Great Houses. The Holy Grail was created by our ancestor Nagato Tohsaka, Makiri Zolgen of the Matou House, and Justeaze Lizrich von Einzbern of the Einzbern House."

"They must have the most complete information regarding the Holy Grail War."

At the mention of her sister, her expression became somewhat conflicted.

During the Holy Grail War ten years ago, her parents had adhered to a magus's principles and insisted on sending her to the Matou House.

Even after learning that she had suffered inhuman treatment in the Matou House, they remained unmoved.

But her sister, Tohsaka Rin, was