143Alright back again.
Now some things I need to go over:
1: I am determined to see this thing to the end. So don't worry about me giving up on it I will finish this. I've read too many good stories that just stop and it really upsets me since I want to know what happens next.
2: In terms of the power scaling, I will admit I definitely got that wrong. As I'm a casual fan of both series, I haven't really looked into the full extent of the "power systems." With Fate I used the Anime, which yes isn't the greatest reference to scale power, to get an idea of what some of the feats a servant can do. Also I really haven't ready much lore on majority of the servants. The only ones that I've really read are Stay night servants, Jeanne, Tamamo, Astraea, Melty, Muramasa, Castoria, Morgan and her knights. The rest I haven't even touched.
With Danmachi, it's a bit harder for me to gauge how levels are done and how much of a bigger impact the difference in level are. Aside from a few times where that happened in the main story, (Bells training with Ais, the fight against the Ishtar Familia and Bell vs Ais come to mind) there hasn't been a great example where the major difference in level has been a major challenge so using the dungeon as a reference to what the monsters are and can do gave me a slight idea on how strong the average adventure of that level would be. Then again it could also just be me not fully understanding Danmachi's power system as well. AS a reminder I haven't read the Light Novels so I'm most definitely missing some major information there.
My idea for that fight was to try and keep Archer of the same level as Alise and what your average level 3 would be. As for the idea comparing the stats of an adventure to a servants stats wasn't the best way to write it but I wanted to show that an adventure could keep up with a servant since they are always growing and gaining excelia. Good idea in concept, not so great execution.
I'll try to keep all of this in mind for future fights.
3: For those that are wondering about "other servants joining the story" you'll be glad to know that there won't be any entering the world of Orario. The most you'll get are some name drops and references.
4: As for EMIYA joining the Astraea Familia I have two ideas on how to go about it. It just comes down to, 'If EMIYA can acquire a falna since he's a spirit' and 'If he does get one, how will that interact with his servant stats and whether or not Archer should start at level 1 or higher.' I believe in lore, anyone that hasn't received a falna before will start at level regardless of any previous battle experience or achievements but I could absolutely be wrong on that. Another idea if I were to start EMIYA at at higher level would any acknowledgements, blessings or anything of the sort from the Fate verse Gods and Goddess have any effect of the Falna as well?
Feel free to toss me some ideas or opinions on that topic.
And that is everything I wanted to cover for the moment. Now to the next chapter.
Chapter 8: The second outing
Inside the halls of the Stardust Garden, the Familia residing inside were enjoying a lovely breakfast that was prepared by their house guest Archer after the little duel he had with Alise. To everyone it was a lovely meal and something to take their mind away from the recent battle that was fought as well as giving them energy to face the new day.
After another delicious breakfast, everyone was relaxing at the table with a cup of tea in front of them. Archer had surprisingly joined them, having been taken off his morning cleaning by Iska and Mayryuu. Something about them needing to put in the effort as well, much to his dismay.
"So Archer I gotta ask, how did you summon those blades during our fight?" a curious Alise had asked him. "I disarmed you at least a dozen times yet every time I did you armed yourself with a new blade."
Seeing that Alise was naturally curious about his abilities, he saw no reason to tell her about it. That is if everyone else in the room wasn't also curious as well and denying them would only bring him more trouble than he already was in.
"The blade summoning is all due in part to my magecraft." he answered sternly.
"Mage… craft? I've never heard of such a term before." A confused Celty replied and she wasn't the only one as well. The others were naturally confused by the term as well. Even Astraea wasn't sure.
Right he was in a time of the Age of Gods. The people of this world wouldn't know about his modern use of "magic" compared to the magic of this time. Archer mentally face palmed himself for the blunder.
"An inferior use of the kind of magic you use." Archer quickly replied. "A-anyway it is because of my unique brand of "magic" I was able to keep rearming myself."
Everyone could tell that he was trying to divert their attention back to the previous topic however they were going to come back to it and get him to spill all he knew. Especially a certain elf that craved knowledge. For the moment they would leave the topic.
Even Archer knew he didn't fully convince them. For now he would have to be content that they weren't pushing it any further than necessary. He would let his future self deal with that can of worms.
"So Archer, how did you get so strong?" a curious Iska asked. "You must've fought a lot of strong people to get to your level." This question naturally got everyone curious as well. To fight on par with Alise, Archer must've fought through many tough challenges to get to his current level of strength.
"Indeed. Over the years I've fought against many strong opponents, opponents that were far stronger than me." he recalled. His battles in the Fifth Holy Grail war and his time in Chaldea were no simple walk in the park. Each one had its fair share of ups and downs.
Naturally after hearing him, Iska jumped in to ask, "Oh! What kind of opponents did you fight then?" She was very excited and curious to know.
After taking a moment to think about it, Archer gave her his answer. "If you must know, some of them include a Dog wielding a deadly cursed stick, a Witch that utilizes forbidden magic, a Masked freak in a cult who could rip out your heart, a Wraith, a Great Hero gone mad and an arrogant king wielding some of the most powerful weapons in history."
Each member of the Astraea Familia were… stunned. Each one of Archer's opponents sounded insane, crazy and/or unreal. Turning to their goddess to see if he was joking and making it all up, what they found was a pale Astraea who was speechless.
He was not making anything up.
Now with their answer each one of them were starting to get a little bit scared, even imagining how a fight with those foes would go for them. And from the looks on their faces, their chances of winning weren't very good. Just who were these people and how was Archer even alive if he fought them.
Seeing their reactions to his answer, maybe it was a bad idea to tell them after all. He just scared the daylights out of them and it wasn't even noon yet. It was then that Archer decided to keep some of the more threatening opponents he's faced locked up. No need to send the girls to an early grave.
A few minutes after that shocking reveal, everything was mostly calm. A few were still terrified but would manage once enough time had passed. Soon enough they would leave and venture out into the city. Protecting the people and venturing into the dungeon. The only ones remaining were Astraea and Archer. Astraea was still sitting at the table enjoying a fresh cup of hot tea while Archer was finishing up the cleaning from breakfast.
"So Archer, what do you have planned for today?"
"I was hoping to do some more exploring in the city. Perhaps this time I'll make some progress instead of getting dragged around everywhere." He replied.
It was then that Astraea had a great idea. "Well then, I hope you won't mind if I tag along then. I could be your faithful guide around the city." If he said yes then it would be a good opportunity to spend some time getting to know him a bit better. Plus she could spend some time outside of the house.
Seeing what she was planning, Archer thought to remind her of a few things. "Lady Astraea, need I remind you that it hasn't even been a week since you were attacked and that there is still danger lurking around." He thought that would be enough to sway her to stay at the Familia home but what he didn't expect was the response that she was about to fire back.
"Hehe, Well then it's a good thing that I have a capable servant who can fend off those dangers and protect me while we're out."
Check and Mate.
How he forgot about today's earlier event he would never know. Now that Astraea knew what he was capable of there was no point in trying to fight back unless he wanted to embarrass himself further.
"*sigh* We leave in five."
Smiling in victory Astraea continued her tea in bliss.
Like the previous day, the streets of Orario were busy as usual and like before Archer was walking down said streets only this time he was accompanied by his ever trusting Master. Naturally as they were walking and passing by various places and business, Astraea would tell him about them. These ranged from small cafes and restaurants, to Potion stores and other Familia homes. There was a fair bit he was introduced to.
Naturally as the Goddess of Justice as well, the public did greet her whenever they saw her. Since her Familia was one of the ones that was keeping the people safe from any threats and she made an effort to communicate and get along with them as well, the people were thankful to her for what she's done for them. They didn't pay much mind to Archer, not that he really cared.
Deciding to take a small break from all of the exploring, they pair stopped at a nearby café. Not in the mood for anything to eat, they got drinks instead. Astraea got some nice herbed tea, while Archer got some black tea.
While they were waiting for their drinks neither had yet to speak a word to each yet. Astraea was the one to break the silence.
"So Archer, how are you enjoying the city so far?"
"For the short time I've been here it has been quite enjoyable for the most part. Taking it all in, I'm feeling a little nostalgic. Reminds me of some of the other cities I've visited in the past." Traveling around the world gave him quite the tour. He got to visit many different places and sites. Hell, even his home Fuyuki was just as big as Orario.
"Fufu, well you did mention that you did a lot of traveling so I'm not too surprised that you've seen a similar sight." It was an expected response that he saw coming.
Seeing as his current master was so interested in learning about him, Archer thought that it would be a good thing to get to know more about his current master now.
"Well since you and the other are so inclined to learn so much about me I think it's about time I start to get to know more about you a bit more." Hearing this, Astraea became more interested. There was a lot Archer could ask her, the question on her mind was 'what would he ask first?' "Tell me more about yourself."
Not surprised at wanting to learn more about herself, Astraea happily complied with his request. "Very well then. As you know all of the gods here have descended from Tenkai. Most descended with the purpose of finding enjoyment, others for more selfish reasons. As for myself I sought to bring peace and prosperity as well as end all sources of evil in the world."
"Pardon for interrupting but I hope you do realize that trying to 'end all evil' in the world is but a fool's dream." Hearing about her reason for descending reminded him of his "goal" in life. He just hoped she wasn't as foolish as his past self.
"I am indeed quite aware. I know that no matter how much one can try, evil will rise from the shadows and plague the world. Nevertheless I still wish to try and cut off the sources as much as possible." she responded, a response that pleased Archer's ears. At least she wasn't as tunnel visioned on her goal as he thought.
Pleased with her answer, Archer moved to his next question. "I see. Well then for my next question, what is the vision "Justice" that you seek?"
This question did surprise Astraea. She wasn't expecting Archer to ask such a question. "Before I answer, may I ask why you asked such a question?"
"There are many ways one can envision and take on the word "Justice". As the goddess of Justice, I'm merely curious to know what your vision of justice looks like."
Astraea didn't need to think too hard how she would respond to him, she already had the answer. "I know that everyone has their own unique vision of Justice and takes it in their own way, however the "Justice" that I envision is one where it can incorporate everyone's vision of Justice." Before Archer could even speak a word, he was cut off by the goddess. "I know that my view is idealistic but I truly believe that different views can work together. It may not happen today, but perhaps someday it might."
Taking in his master's words Archer was in deep thought. A vision where multiple different views of Justice worked together. It was indeed idealistic but a unique view that only the Goddess of Justice could come up with and who knows maybe one day her vision could come true. Only time would tell.
Seeing that Archer was content with her answers, Astraea thought to turn the table for a bit. "Well Archer I think it's about time I asked you a question now." She was starting to wonder how Archer would answer this question of hers.
"Very well then, please feel free to ask away then."
"What sort of Justice do you envision?"
This was a question that he should've expected but didn't. He paused at the thought. Thinking, wondering. In his past he wanted to become a 'Hero of Justice', succeed where Kiritsugu Emiya failed. He accomplished that goal but at a terrible cost. A "Hero of Justice' would sacrifice anything and everything to help and save as many people as possible, perhaps that was once his vision of 'Justice' but no longer it is.
"I must apologize Lady Astraea, but I can not answer your question yet. I need to give some more thought before I can give you my answer."
"Please worry not Archer. I wasn't expecting you to answer right away. I could see that you were giving it a lot of thought, but it's clear that you have yet to envision your take on it." An idea then popped into Astraea's head. "Perhaps you could join in one of the Familas talks about their vision and meaning of Justice. Maybe it'll give you an idea of what yours will be."
Smiling Archer couldn't help but accept the Goddess invitation. "If you'll have me, then I accept. It'll be interesting to hear what everyone's unique take on it will be."
After that conversation the two continued to enjoy each other's company, as well as some mildly warm tea, the pair continued walking through the city.
"I think we've covered most of this area. Is there anywhere else you think we should visit lady Astraea?" Archer asked. Perhaps his master had an idea where they could go next.
"Hmm let me think," Taking a moment to think about it, there was one place that did come to mind. "I know just the place. And I think you'll like it as well." She had a great smile when she answered his question.
Interested in the place his master had thought of, he nodded to lead the way.
It didn't take long for them to arrive at Astraea's chosen place. Why it was none other than the giant tower Archer climbed to the top on his very first night. Looking up, Archer could really see just how tall the tower was from the lower perspective. What a sight it was.
Once he was finished, he looked in front to see Astraea smiling and giggling to herself. He guessed that looking at the tower was a common reaction to newcomers.
"So I'm guessing you didn't just bring me here to make fun at my reaction."
"That's correct. The place I want to bring you to is inside of Babel. Though your first reaction to it was a bonus." She couldn't help but let out a small giggle, much to his annoyance.
Making their way inside, Archer made note that the majority of people they passed by all had armor and weapons similar to that of the Astraea's girls. It was quite the gathering of people inside either making their way in or exiting the tower.
"So what's the deal with the tower?" Archer asked.
"Well you see Archer, below Babel is the reason why many people come to Orario in the first place. The Dungeon. Originally Babel was built to stop the monsters that reside within the dungeon from escaping and making their way to the surface but over time some gods have set up shops and money exchanges on the higher floors and if you go even higher some of the Gods even live in Babel." Astraea explained. "For the purpose of our visit we'll be sticking to floors 4 - 8."
"I see." ('So the tower itself is one thing preventing a massive monster rampage from happening. And some gods reside here as well. Knowing my luck nothing but trouble will follow if I meet one of them.')
Shortly after the duo started their Babel trip on Floor 6 after taking an elevator to get up there. Now Archer was no historian but he was pretty sure that elevators didn't exist in the Age of Gods. It was definitely a strange and weird experience.
Exiting they started to walk around and take in the new surroundings. All around him were displays of different armours and weapons. Using his skills to analyse them, each item he saw was crafted pretty well with a lot of passion put into making them.
But that wasn't all. The further they explored the more he saw. On the floor above it was much the same but the quality of the weapons and amour was higher than the previous floor. Going over each item's history and properties did interest Archer. A lot of the material used to make them were things he'd never heard of or even thought could be used to make weapons yet here they were and the added benefits that came within them, it really was like living in an RPG. Not to mention some of these might come in handy for the future.
On the sidelines Astraea was watching Archer with interest. Originally she wanted to show him the stores and a bit of Babel but seeing this new side to him was entertaining. She didn't think he was this interested in weapons.
Continuing on floor 8, it was even full of powerful weapons and armor. These were made by some of the top smiths in the city so everything shown was top of the line. While exploring the area Astraea had stepped in on of the shops, a familiar shop that she knew well. Naturally Archer followed her.
Inside were shelves and displays of High Quality weapons and armor. As they entered Archer made his way to one end of the store while Astraea made her way down to the counter of the shop.
The one behind the counter was a woman with long black, brown skin and wore an eyepatch on her left eye. This was none other than Tsubaki Collbrande, captain of the Hephaestus Familia and she was BORED.
"Good day to you Tsubaki."
"With her attention now caught, Tsubaki looked to see that in front of her was none other than the Goddess of Justice herself. Seeing her recharged the once bored smith. "Ah Lady Astraea, it's good to see you. It's not often you come to visit us here."
"Fufu, well I'm here as a guide today."
"A guide!? You got a new member. Well where is she? If you want I can happily introduce them to one of the beginner smiths in the Familia for you…." Looking around her shop the only other person in the room she could find was a man with white hair in a long red coat staring at her goods. Where was this new member… wait.
"You invited a MAN into Familia!"
"Wait Tsubaki it's not like that!" Seeing the look on Tsubaki, she wanted an explanation. "He's new to Orario and I owe him a debt for saving me. Right now he's staying with us but hasn't joined any Familia yet."
"And everyone is fine with that?"
"There were some objections at first but everyone's taken a liking to him in the short time he's been with us. He's been a great gentleman and house keeper for the Familia."
Yeah… Tsubaki wasn't completely convinced by the goddess's words. However, a thought popped into her head. If this man was what Astraea is saying to be, then she wouldn't mind if she judged him herself, would she?
Leaving the service counter, Tsubaki made her way towards Archer and called out to him. "You seem pretty into that sword up there."
Turning his attention to the voice calling out to him, he met her gaze. "Just appreciating the work that was done to this blade. The smith who crafted this put their heart and soul into making this, so I was curious about its properties."
"Oh, and do tell me what you've discovered."
Taking a good look at the weapon, he started to look into its history. "This weapon was created by combining the strength and durability of Adamantite and the magical resilience of Mithril to create a weapon that can channel the user's magic into the blade and release that power into a devastating strike. The process to create the blade was melting and reforging the ores multiple times so that elements from both materials would combine and synchronize with one another without."
Impressed by Archer's recount, Tsubaki applauded him. "Got in one. I'm impressed you got the materials right but even more so that you knew about the process to create it. You got some pretty good eyes. Are you a blacksmith too?"
"I'm afraid I'm no blacksmith. Let's just say… I have a skill that allows me to read into a weapons history."
"That's a pretty interesting skill you got there. Shame that you aren't a blacksmith. A skill like that sounds like it could be useful."
Astraea listening in on their conversation decided to jump in. "Wait but can't you create blades Archer?"
These words did not go unheard.
A glint was caught in Tsubaki's eye. She just heard something very interesting about his man and she wanted to know more. "Oh so you can create weapons after all. Show me."
She was invading his personal space and Archer did not appreciate it. Looking to the side directly at his master, his glare was burning straight into her for unleashing this mess. She did give him a silent apology in response. Seeing as this cyclops wasn't going to leave him alone now, Archer traced a simple blade to satisfy her curiosity.
Taking the blade off his hands, Tsubaki began to examine what Archer had presented. "Hmm. Not bad, a bit basic but will suffice any low to mid adventures. Crafts work is done pretty well but kind of standard and no special properties added into the blade." After a thorough examination, she looked back towards Archer. "So how'd you make this exactly?"
"Magic."
"Not wanting to spill out your secrets. Fair enough." She handed Archer back the blade and decided to ask him a very important question. "Say how are you interested in becoming a smith?"
This question drew a raised eyebrow from Archer. He wasn't expecting a question like that to be asked. "Any particular reason why you're asking?"
"Well you've got the eyes of a smith. Not to mention if you can create blades like that from nothing, you could create something even stronger than that if you learn the fundamentals." She reasoned. "Plus I'm also curious about that magic you use. If I can learn something like that, then I'm sure I'll be one step closer to my goal."
Archer had to admit, she was doing a good job trying to convince him and if she only knew what some of the other weapons he had in stock could do. The blade he traced for her was nothing compared to the weapons used by other heroic spirits. He was also particularly interested to know what this "goal" of hers was.
Seeing that he was convinced yet, Tsubaki opted to try one more tactic. "Well then how about giving it a try?" Archer still wasn't convinced, in fact he just looked at her funny. "Come on it can't hurt to try your hand at smithing at one time." Even Astraea was urging him to give it a shot.
With a sigh Archer relented. "Very well then, I'll give it a shot." Both ladies of the room were glad that he agreed to try it. Tsubaki was mentally fist bumping herself in success. "So when do we start?"
Full of energy, Tsubaki eagerly replied, "Right now!" Finally some excitement to banish the boring day. She grabbed the back of Archer's jacket and was beginning to drag him out of the store. He did bother to try and resist.
Seeing Archer being dragged away, Astraea noticed one small problem. "Tsubaki wait! What about the store!?"
"I'm closing it early. It's been quite the last few days and I'm not missing this chance to get back into the forge." She called back. "You can take over my shift if you want or you can follow us."
Now being the one to sigh, Astraea made sure to turn the shop sign to let everyone know that the shop was closed before following them.
While dragging Archer out and away from the store, Tsubaki was hit with a sudden realization. "Oh by the way I forgot to introduce myself. The names Tsubaki Collbrande, captain of the Hephaestus Familia."
"Archer."
"An odd name you've got there. Well it's not my place to question it anyway. Anyway, I hope you're ready for a lesson you'll never forget." She sounded way too excited which probably wasn't good for him.
The day was still bright and the sun had yet to settle, and yet Archer already wanted the day to be over. Seems today was going to be another day of being dragged around.
Next time Archer has a go at being a blacksmith.