Fate/Magus Path

46 Hand in Hand

"What place are you taking me to?"

After letting Roy lead her for a while, Artoria couldn't help but ask.

Since the effect of the eye scales hadn't worn off, she had no idea where they were going.

"It's a place you'll like, and it's not far from here. We'll be there in a few minutes."

"Okay."

Artoria nodded, choosing to trust him.

It's normal for the defeated to follow the victor's lead, and she sensed no malice from Roy.

If he wanted to kill her, the best opportunity would have been earlier when she dropped her sword; there was no need for unnecessary actions.

Indeed, as Roy said, the distance they walked wasn't long; it took about five minutes to arrive at a shop with two red lanterns hanging from the eaves.

"Is this a diner?"

Though she couldn't see yet, the enticing aroma wafting from inside led Artoria to guess what Roy's good place was.

"That's right; it's a diner that only opens late at night. The owner is quite skilled; I used to come here often when I was working late."

"Alright, let's go in. If there's anything to discuss, we can talk while we eat. Miss Artoria, you haven't had a chance to enjoy modern cuisine since being summoned, right?"

With that, Roy took her hand and led her into the diner.

Inside, the middle-aged owner, dressed in a clean work uniform, was meticulously wiping down the counter, while drinks in the cooler were neatly arranged on the bar.

Though it was already late at night, it was just the beginning for him; soon, he would welcome the guests arriving throughout the night.

Look, they're already here.

As the door swung open, the wind chime jingled softly, and a couple entered.

"Welcome, you two."

"Hey, isn't that Roy-san? I haven't seen you in a while." The owner greeted, smiling at the familiar face but was slightly surprised to see Artoria beside him.

Seeing Roy holding Artoria's hand, the owner suddenly understood everything, a smile of recognition lighting up his face.

"Well, kid, no wonder we haven't seen each other in so long. Looks like you found yourself a girlfriend. Been spending time with her lately?"

"It's not that kind of relationship; we're just friends..." Roy chuckled awkwardly, waving his hand to clarify.

"She has some trouble with her eyesight, so I'm just acting as her cane for a bit."

"...Hmm, such a beautiful girl; what a pity."

Noticing Artoria's grayish-white eyes, the owner couldn't help but express his regret. He then pushed the menu in front of Roy and asked, "What would you like to eat? Same old, same old?"

"I'll have my usual. As for Saber, just get her the same set meal as mine."

"Is that alright with you, Saber?"

Roy asked while pulling out a chair for her.

"That's fine." Artoria nodded.

Hmm... Saber? What a strange name. Do foreign girls have such odd names?

The owner felt a bit surprised but didn't say anything, as discussing someone's name in front of them was quite rude.

"Two orders of eel rice, fried fish rice, along with two bowls of oden and two bottles of beer, right?"