Fate/Magus Path

128 Who Killed Me?

After a brief exchange, Roy and Arcueid followed Kohaku into a spacious and well-lit parlor.

The Tohno family's reputation as a prominent local clan was evident in the parlor's design. While it couldn't rival the opulence of the El-Melloi or Einzbern, the room achieved a standard of elegance that was impeccable in its own right.

At the center stood a luxurious marble table, complemented by a crystal chandelier overhead. European-style oil paintings adorned the walls, lending the room a stately ambiance that bore a striking resemblance to the El-Melloi family's parlor.

Roy settled into a seat in the corner, his presence calm yet commanding. Arcueid, having released her firm grip on Shiki Tohno's wrist, followed suit and took a seat beside him.

Not long after, the red-haired maids returned, bearing an assortment of exquisite desserts meant to entertain their guests.

"Roy, may I eat these?"

Arcueid's eyes sparkled with anticipation, though she still glanced at Roy for his approval.

In response, Roy looked toward the mansion's hostess and met Akiha Tohno's gaze.

"Miss Akiha?"

"Of course. Please, help yourself."

Akiha quickly nodded, her tone polite yet measured.

"Then I won't hold back!"

Having spent centuries in the Millennium Castle, followed by relentless pursuit of Roa, Arcueid had little opportunity to enjoy such delicacies. The intricately crafted desserts before her were a rare treat, far superior to the simple burgers Beowulf had introduced her to.

With the host's consent, Arcueid wasted no time indulging.

As she devoured the sweets with impressive speed, the assortment on the table visibly diminished. Despite her voracious appetite, her manner of eating was far from crude; in fact, there was a certain charm to it... an innocent delight that made the scene almost endearing.

For reasons he couldn't quite articulate, Shiki Tohno felt increasingly uneasy watching Arcueid's serene, almost peaceful demeanor. The stark contrast between her current state and the relentless hunter he had just escaped left him disoriented.

Is this woman bipolar? How can her behavior change so drastically?

Then there was the other one... Roy.

Shiki turned his gaze toward him, his unease deepening.

At first, he thought he had encountered a benevolent stranger, someone who might even save him from Arcueid. Yet, as the situation unfolded, he realized that this calm and composed man was no mere bystander... he was the orchestrator of it all.

Roy had not only disarmed him but casually held him in place, all while engaging in seemingly trivial conversation. By now, it was clear who held the reins between the two visitors.

Just my luck, I escape the woman only to run straight into her boss.

"Is something the matter, Shiki Tohno?"

Noticing Shiki's lingering gaze, Roy raised an eyebrow and spoke with a calm, inquisitive tone. "If you have something to say, feel free to speak your mind."

"N-No, I just..."

Shiki stammered, his words faltering.

What can I even say? Admit I was sizing you up?

"Apologies." Akiha interjected smoothly, stepping in to defuse the awkward tension. "My brother has never left the country, so he's naturally curious about distinguished guests from the Clock Tower."