As the video began to play, it showcased the early twists of the Fifth Holy Grail War.
In a grand estate, a young man clad in a luxurious black shirt chanted a prayer with practiced ease. With a burst of radiant light, a complex magical array activated, responding from the Throne of Heroes beyond this world.
In the center of the summoning circle, a mysterious woman cloaked in a cape appeared, holding a sacred relic—a small dagger.
"You are the most powerful mage of the Age of Gods, Medea, correct?"
In the opulent mansion, Tomoya Aki felt a surge of excitement but quickly took a deep breath, adjusting to a more respectful demeanor.
"Yes...I am Medea, summoned as Caster," she replied, her voice carrying an elegance befitting her role. "If you have any wish, please share it. I shall devote myself fully to its fulfillment." Her words held a quiet warmth, and sensing her Master's sincerity, a gentle smile played on her lips, as soothing as a spring breeze.
Medea, known as the infamous "Witch of Betrayal," was genuinely moved by her Master's kindness. Trust was rare for her, and his goodwill touched her deeply.
"A wish…?"
Tomoya Aki scratched his head with a bashful smile, appearing as harmless as ever.
Medea's expression softened, her smile gracious and kind. "Indeed. Those chosen by the Holy Grail, whether Master or Servant, each harbor desires. As I am well-versed in many forms of ancient magic, perhaps I could be of assistance…"
"Is that so…?"
Tomoya Aki thought for a moment, then a look of contentment crossed his face.
"Since I was young, I've lived in comfort, never lacking for anything. I was introduced to the world of magic, and I've always been grateful for how fortunate my life has been. But every time I see people still living in hardship, it pains me deeply."
"My wish for the Grail… is to create a magic that brings happiness to others."
His gaze held sincere purity, and his demeanor exuded an undeniable charm and earnestness.
With each word, Tomoya Aki's vision seemed to paint a series of beautiful images, as if he had come into this world solely to bring comfort to others.
Even Caster was moved, her expression showing faint admiration.
As Tomoya Aki described his wish, people watching felt a surge of emotions—wonder, admiration, respect…and a hint of doubt.
Young viewers, especially impressionable teenagers, responded enthusiastically, engaging in lively discussions online.
"Tomoya Aki is a living legend!"
"He's practically a saint by ancient standards!"
"He deserves the honor of the Four Tenets of Ethics!"
"To set one's heart on the heavens and earth, to secure the fate of all people, to revive the teachings of the ancients, and to establish peace for all time!!"
"To think someone so pure-hearted could exist in this corrupted age!"
"Seems too good to be true. Sounds like wishful thinking!"
"Stop being so cynical!"
"Wait… if Tomoya Aki is the Master, what's the deal with that woman?"
"Well, isn't it obvious?"
"In mythology, Medea's the witch who betrayed. There's no way she can handle Tomoya Aki's noble ideals. Sure, they're acting friendly, but deep down, she's probably furious and plotting to betray him!"
"Such a wicked witch. Tomoya Aki's so unlucky to have summoned her."
The audience's doubts gradually turned to anger as they denounced the "sins" of Medea, the Witch of the Age of Gods, as if she had committed countless unforgivable acts.
After all…
In mythology, she was known for her grim reputation, leaving people to judge her from the start. After all, who would trust a woman who, in her wrath, killed her own children, left her husband in despair, and personally dismembered her brother, casting his remains into the sea?
The title "Witch of Betrayal" had long since become Medea's trademark. No one would believe in her.
---
In reality, at the Chiba City Council Hall…
"We've confirmed it! Tomoya Aki is one of our own, from Chiba!" an enthusiastic man in a suit exclaimed.
The celestial projection in the sky was visible worldwide, effectively serving as global promotion. With Chiba's economy in decline, tourism dwindling, and industries struggling, this was a prime opportunity. If they could turn Tomoya Aki into an "internet celebrity," they might just revive the local economy.
After all, the affluent Yukino and Haruno from the Yukinoshita Clan were far too dignified for this kind of work. Mouri Kogoro was based in Beika Town, and Itou Makoto had an overwhelmingly negative reputation…
Finally, a suitable candidate—a kind-hearted local figure—had come along.
Beside him, a man with a cigar gave a satisfied smile, patting the suited man on the shoulder. "Yamamoto, do this right, and if you can make Chiba great again…my position will be yours someday."
"Understood! I'll do everything to boost Tomoya Aki's fame!" the man in the suit shouted, his face flushed with excitement.
Under the big boss's approving gaze, he dashed to the PR department, coordinating with the police. Within half an hour, they brought Tomoya Aki to the scene and filmed several short promotional clips for the internet.
Tomoya Aki, though a bit overwhelmed, agreed graciously.
The video production was surprisingly well-done. The footage showed him galloping across the grasslands on horseback, flashing a bright, genuine smile that highlighted his innocence and shyness.
Naturally, it also included short clips of him standing in Chiba's zoo, bashfully introducing various animals.
"In the zoo, we can hear all sorts of sounds."
" Leopard…"
" Panda…"
" Giraffe…"
" Silverback gorilla…"
In each of these short videos, Tomoya Aki's unfiltered smile captured his pure, innocent nature.
He was having the time of his life, thrilled by the unexpected perks his counterpart in a parallel world had brought him.
These videos quickly went viral, amassing millions of likes, and Chiba Prefecture's popularity soared.
...
As the night sky played scenes of peaceful harmony, a mellow background music set the mood.
In this round of the Holy Grail War, the Caster duo seemed to be the most unified team.
[Tomoya Aki smiled with confidence, kicking things off with his "money rains" tactic, fully embodying the spirit of a "generous spender," stocking the warehouse with every magical material imaginable.]
[Medea, in turn, used ancient magic to fortify the Aki family's estate into an impressively formidable magical stronghold—even Servants from the top three knight classes would feel uneasy approaching.]
[Talk about airtight defenses!]
Audiences worldwide watched in awe, left speechless by the pair's unbeatable teamwork.
Could this duo possibly lose? (╮ ̄ー ̄)╭
Absolutely impossible!
However, the tables turned far sooner than anyone expected…
An unexpected event led to Tomoya Aki's true nature being exposed in front of Caster.
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