To Become a King and a Magician

Though her former self was gone, Ayaka was a sister Rei could never forget. This was an undeniable fact. Even if her identity had changed, she would always be her older sister, forever caring for her.

Thus, Rei was eager to know about her sister's situation four years later.

"Ayaka's currently studying at the Clock Tower in London." Naoki answered. "A year ago, after graduating high school, she entered the Clock Tower through my recommendation and is now a personal student under the supervision of a Lord in the Department of Modern Magecraft Theory."

"Since the incident four years ago, Tokyo is no longer the Tokyo where Magecraft couldn't be used. More and more Magus have gradually infiltrated the city. I wasn't sure Ayaka could live peacefully in that environment, plus she had a desire to study further…"

(Going to the Clock Tower, huh?)

Rei knew what kind of place it was. If Tokyo was once a paradise for the mystical world, the Clock Tower was its filthiest den. To suddenly go study there…

"Is Ayaka being bullied?"

"At first, a bit. Some commoner Magus didn't like her entering through connections, and the self-important nobles looked down on her. Plus, those paranoid schemers were highly suspicious. There was a time she suffered quite a bit. Well, now no one dares to mess with her."

"Why?"

"Half a year ago, I went to the Clock Tower and nearly leveled the place. Now everyone knows Ayaka's under my protection. Plus, with the Old Man Jewel and Lord El-Melloi II watching over her, who do you think would dare bother her?"

Hearing Naoki's explanation, Rei understood.

Most Magus had a fear of death, especially those in high positions. They might sacrifice their lives to reach the Root, but if they couldn't, they'd avoid risks at all costs.

Messing with Ayaka was like picking a fight with Naoki, which meant seeking death. Before reaching the Root, no Magus wanted to die, so naturally, they wouldn't dare touch Ayaka, who was like a landmine.

"However, my protection over her ends here. In a few days, we'll leave this world, and I don't know when I'll return. But with El-Melloi II and the Old Jewel Man watching, there shouldn't be any major issues."

"Leaving… Oh, right, you're from a parallel world." Rei recalled things she'd seen. "How troublesome for you, Master, having to follow the rules of those weaklings."

"It's not troublesome. Thanks to that, I've experienced a lot in this world, and it's been pretty fun. What about you?"

"Hm?"

"Want me to take you to London? Siblings should be together, right? Though it feels a bit reluctant to hand over my hard work to someone else, it's fine—as long as you want to be with Ayaka, right?"

(Living with Ayaka?)

Rei had to admit, it was a tempting offer. Back then, she left without saying goodbye, leaving Ayaka alone for eight years. Now, there was a chance to stay with her.

"No, I don't think it's necessary."

After a moment's thought, Rei shook her head. "Master said there'll be chances to return in the future, so I'm not in a rush. I'll definitely meet Ayaka again later. For now, let me live as your doll."

Besides, meeting her now with this identity felt a bit inappropriate.

"Alright then." Naoki stood and extended his hand. "In that case, welcome to my family, Rei. Moving forward, I'll be relying on you for a lot."

"Yes, leave all commands to me, Master. Though I'm no longer omniscient or omnipotent, I'll do my utmost to fulfill your wishes."

As a doll, and also as a Holy Grail.

"Oh, right, Angelica, Gray, Pandora."

Naoki suddenly looked at the three beside him.

"Inform all the acquaintances we've met over the years. Before we leave, we need to say goodbye to everyone."

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Homurahara Academy, Elementary School, in front of the principal's office.

"That's how it is. I've caused you trouble over these four years, Principal. Please take care moving forward."

Stepping out of the room, Atalanta sighed in relief, then approached a window and gazed at the children studying on the outdoor field.

This was the last time she'd see this sight.

Just now, she had submitted her resignation letter.

She planned to leave this world with Naoki and the others, heading to Naoki's original world.

"Resigned already, Mrs. Natsukawa?"

A provocative female voice sounded beside her. For the umpteenth time, Atalanta replied helplessly, "Not Mrs. I have no relationship with him, Caren-sensei."

"Hmph~… After four years living together, no one at school believes that." Caren leaned against the window expressionlessly. "The Church also got word he's leaving, so I figured you'd go too. Pretty decisive, huh. Is that what they call a beast following its master?"

"Though not quite accurate, my thoughts align with what you said."

"A stray cat tamed?"

Atalanta shook her head. "Just repaying a debt. My current life is thanks to him. So, let me give him a little in return. With the Holy Grail War approaching, let my bow and arrows bring him victory."

"Victory… For me, having one less obstacle in the future is nice enough."

"I don't recall ever obstructing you."

Caren smiled, turned, and walked away, waving her hand.

"Because of you, I haven't seen kids' pained expressions from injuries in a long time. If that's not an obstacle, what is?"

"See you. Send my regards to that guy."

Watching Caren's retreating figure, Atalanta could only sigh—this woman's way of expressing herself was always strange.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

At the same time, in a small alley in Fuyuki City.

"Boss! Is it true you're leaving?!"

"Boss is finally retiring from the gang…"

"We'll always remember you, Boss!"

"How many times have I told you! Don't call me Boss! Call me King!"

Looking at her underlings, some crying, some laughing, and joking as they saw her off, Mordred, Fuyuki City's Delinquent Queen, was at a loss for words. Normally, she could smack them around freely, but when leaving, it was best not to.

Since Mordred announced she was leaving and retiring from delinquency, these guys cried louder and caused more chaos than anyone else—they were the followers she'd picked up by chance while skipping school. Though all delinquents, under her Camelot-style training, they now looked like soldiers.

*BRAK!*

With her baseball bat, the Oath of Victory, in hand, Mordred slammed it into the ground, instantly silencing the surroundings. She then raised the bat and shouted, "Listen up, kids! Though I'm leaving, don't forget the rules I left behind. I don't want to come back and see you slipping into old bad habits!"

"Got it, Boss!"

"Good! All of you, stick out your heads so I can smack 'em! I wanna see who dares misname my mom's title!"

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Luviagelita's residence.

The Natsukawa family was leaving this world—the sudden news left Rin and the others a bit bewildered.

"Came suddenly, leaving suddenly too?" Luvia stood by the window, looking at the villa next door. "Rin, remember the first time we met that guy?"

"How could I forget? Falling from the sky or whatever, it really shocked me…" Rin gave a wry smile.

"Over four years have passed. Moving forward without him always making headlines might feel a bit strange—oh, Shirou, can I ask you for a favor?"

"Don't just order my servant around, Rin!"

"Please, Tohsaka-sama."

"Fireworks. Can you prepare them before they leave?" Rin said. "When friends are leaving, there should be a grand farewell."