Ch. 521Holy Grail War
Chapter Summary: Holy Grail War
Plot Points and Events
- In a snow-covered dead forest, Eri practices swordsmanship with a replica of Excalibur while Illyasviel enthusiastically cheers her on.
- Artoria, Eri’s summoned Saber, is bewildered by Eri’s intense curiosity and by Leon’s ability to recreate Excalibur perfectly.
- Leon’s creation of the holy sword appears to draw on the entire network of ley lines, demonstrating power far beyond that of ordinary modern magi.
- Artoria questions why someone as powerful as Leon would need the Holy Grail. Leon explains that he and Eri are merely travelers, and that he has taken Emiya Kiritsugu’s place in the War through an agreement.
- In exchange for Leon fulfilling Kiritsugu’s wish, Kiritsugu has surrendered his position as a participant.
- Kiritsugu reveals that his wish is world peace and the end of war and suffering.
- Through Kiritsugu’s memories, it is revealed that Leon entered the Emiya household with a witch, repeatedly incapacitated Kiritsugu whenever he became hostile, treated his injuries, and ultimately forced him into accepting the deal.
- Leon warns both Kiritsugu and Artoria that their expectations of the Holy Grail may lead to severe disappointment.
- Before the group can discuss the other Masters over dinner, Leon announces that he intends to fulfill their wishes immediately. He plans to take Eri to Fuyuki City so she can experience the Holy Grail War herself.
- Leon opens a Mystic Arts Portal and leaves with Eri, while Illyasviel follows them.
Character Developments
- Leon: Revealed as an overwhelmingly powerful and mysterious traveler who can reproduce Noble Phantasms. He is confident, manipulative, and seemingly committed to keeping his bargain with Kiritsugu, though his true motives remain unclear.
- Eri: Displays childlike curiosity and enthusiasm, especially toward Excalibur and swordsmanship. She has no clearly defined personal wish but becomes interested in participating in the War.
- Artoria/Saber: Initially confident in the Grail’s ability to grant wishes, she becomes unsettled by Leon’s power and warnings. Her usual dignity is humorously contrasted with her immediate fixation on dinner.
- Emiya Kiritsugu: His hostility and distrust toward Leon are overwhelmed by Leon’s superior power. Though resentful and powerless to resist, he remains cautiously hopeful that his wish for world peace can be fulfilled.
- Irisviel: Acts as a calming and practical presence, attempting to redirect the tense discussion toward dinner and information gathering.
- Illyasviel: Serves as an energetic and supportive companion to Eri, cheering her on and accompanying her departure.
Significant Themes
- The limits and truth of wishes: Leon suggests that the Holy Grail may not grant wishes in the straightforward way its participants expect.
- Power and helplessness: Kiritsugu’s inability to resist Leon emphasizes the vast difference between ordinary magi and Leon’s supernatural abilities.
- Idealism versus reality: Kiritsugu’s dream of world peace and Artoria’s faith in the Grail are treated with skepticism, foreshadowing disappointment.
- Childlike wonder: Eri’s innocent fascination with Excalibur contrasts with the darker motives and burdens surrounding the Holy Grail War.
- Control and consent: Although Leon claims to honor his bargain, he obtains Kiritsugu’s cooperation through intimidation and overwhelming force.
Character Interactions
- Eri enthusiastically practices with Excalibur while Illyasviel encourages her.
- Artoria questions Leon about his abilities and motives, but his mysterious presence makes her uncomfortable.
- Leon and Kiritsugu maintain a tense relationship shaped by their coercive bargain, with Leon holding the upper hand.
- Irisviel tries to ease the tension by suggesting dinner, only for Leon to prioritize the fulfillment of the wishes.
- Leon treats Eri affectionately and takes responsibility for guiding her into the Holy Grail War.