Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works – 04
Unlimited Awkward Moments Works
Another busy week at work… There are times I wonder to myself, why I overburden myself so? But oh well! At least I have my favourite escapism in aniblogging and this week we have another plot-ful episode. It seems, this is how the rhythm would be to balance out the action and exposition of the heavy FSN franchise. This works fine for me but do you all share my sentiment? Oh do note an advance alert for next week, as I’d be traveling so episode 5 & 6 editorials will be covered together later. For the oldies and new commenters, please use spoiler tags whenever relevant.
The Aftermath: Welcome to Fate/naked Dark Illya because she sure made things interesting in the first minute. It was funny to see the Einzbern maids all serious over Y U NO KILL THEM?! However, let’s face it, Berserker is indeed quite powerful and her master as well. She was able to deflect Archer’s Caladbolg II attack or it could have been Berserker’s own reflexes that saved him. Basically, he only lost one life after Saber’s attack and just walked off the graveyard afterwards. There was an interesting debate in the previous post on why Berserker was not harmed by Archer’s attack because it had Noble Phantasm properties but this scene pretty much showed that it was deflected. Another fact is that Berserker’s life count is renewed every three days. So, err… Good luck to all masters facing him off.
Do note, Shiro is now mysteriously healing his wounds and he did not possess this ability before. Thus, even after being somewhat hit by Archer’s attack on Berserker, he survived and healed within a night. That’s some feat if you ask me and you should hope for some explanation soon as my lips are sealed.
New Guests at Emiya Boarding House: There were some amazing Shiro-faces this episode. I really have to compliment ufotable staff here to update his character designs. From a bit more ruffled hair to muscular build and trendy clothes. Really, in the VN I was tired of seeing him in school uniform and sometimes in jeans, white T-shirt and a jacket. The new wardrobe is a refreshing change and the manservice is welcome too. I was literally reminded of Makoto from Free! during his flexes. This is not just MC upgrade rather the result of his daily routine at dojo and previous archery activities when he was a club member. No guesses required for his reason behind leaving the club, as it was Shinji being a douchebag, trying to prove he was the best of them all.
Coming to the special servant, Saber is sadly unable to dematerialize like other servants because of Shiro being unable to provide her mana. She is at a disadvantage but plays it up nicely rather than rubbing Shiro’s nose in. This will be difficult in combat situation, when she won’t be able to just disappear like Archer or Lancer but it comes with the scenario of being summoned by a novice. At least, she would get Shiro’s lovely cooking so in terms of energy, there will be some replenishment. I want to see how ufotable will tackle the mana transfer so let’s wait and see, oldies.
Saber overall was a breath of fresh air and her calm figure definitely cut a nice frame. Her conversation with Shiro felt more natural than just two strangers meeting for the first time. Thus, you have to give credit where it’s due that Shiro is a good balancer in putting other people at ease. This trait must come from always saying YES to others but his understanding of Saber’s decision not to reveal her identity and even deciding on the optimum ways to battle was good. When inexperienced, it’s always better to accept the shortcomings rather than going guns ablazin’ in a battlefield where you’ll most probably end up dead. Though, I don’t think the Seigi no Mikata urge and becoming a human shield to Saber is going away anytime soon.
Anyways, it was never going to be easy for a beautiful girl to suddenly start living with Shiro with Taiga-sensei, sister-figure and Sakura, waifu-material watching over him like hawks. The comic discussion while coming back from school is not exactly like VN but held the same comic reaction of them going EHHHHHH and bombarding Shiro with questions. It would have been convenient if Saber was able to transform to spirit form but at least, we get to see her in some Rin-borrowed spiffy clothes (just like an ojou-chan as commented by Shiro). I highly enjoyed the flustered reactions on Sakura and Taiga. And for now, things are settled with Taiga living in Emiya household as well to protect the young’uns but not sure if Sakura can stay too long with Shinji-niisama on unnecessarily lookout.
Things Going Bump in the Night: While Shiro is busy handling few pressing household matters, Rin is at the thick of things: kicking skeletal familiars’ butts like a boss. The mysterious gas leaks we have been overhearing on news (unlike Zankyou no Terror), have been caused by the Caster servant. There is some hanky-panky going on in the school vicinity as well, with a master carving magical circles in different areas. It smells like human mana tampering to get more supply. With the current flow of things and the recent office outbreak, it seems Caster resides in Ryuudou temple or nearby area due the mana flowing back in that general direction.
It’s good to go after this new enemy; though, I have to voice the same concern as Archer on why Rin was not simply killing Shiro off to have one less enemy to deal with. However much she goes deadly mode, we as watchers know her soft spot for him and can already see her trying to avoid this upcoming faceoff. Maybe Sakura is the main reason but he’s not a faceless student for her anymore. She knows however simple-minded he is, he’s not purposeless. Their relationship development should be interesting through the run of this route.
In Brief:
- I pity Illya for hating on Kiritsugu. Sadly she was brain washed by Acht Einzbern and thinks her father abandoned her after the fourth war, which is definitely not the truth.
- Another true adaptation by ufotable of Illya’s maids characters designs: Leysritt (in black) and Sella (in blue). Them being fully covered must be a shock to Prisma Illya viewers but this is how they were supposed to be after all.
- Doesn’t Kazuki-sensei look suspicious to you? For Kara no Kyoukai watchers, his prototype was God’s Word; though, not all his skills were transferred to the fate version. Same as Enjou Tomoe being Shiro’s prototype.
- Sakura, don’t worry, there will be Heaven’s Feel movie for you, dear girl.
- For now, suspect everyone who is introduced. After all, we haven’t met all the masters and servants just yet.
- Show ▼
Extra Unlimited Works
Visual Novel to Anime Adaptation
Full portrait of Saber-VN + Saber-Anime. You are welcome.
Click for more Show ▼
Another good episode and there was enough loli, tsunder and even manservice in the episode to please everyone. Same goes for the hints that were aplenty as well. Ufotable is drawing a fine line between explaining things to new watchers and keeping the oldies ogling all the facts and hints. Good job!
Switching perspectives was a clever tactic as well because we all agree on this point that we don’t want to see Shiro’s point of view alone. It’s exciting to see Rin and Archer hunt for the next faceoff and even some loli voyeurism (you know who you guys are!), for backstory kicks. I hope we get to see some Kiritsugu in a flashback because this dude deserves it! And please more GARcher as I miss him already!
Preview: Chances of Caster/Rider to be finally revealed, which means, more beautiful battles!
Spoiler alert: Even when most of our readers are Fate oldies, do make sure to add spoilers under the [*spoiler]text[*/spoiler] tag (remove * while using), so that the new watchers are not spoiled out of the fun.
About Kyokai
The Boss lady of Metanorn, who makes it all happen. An animanga enthusiast, who watches/reads almost anything that strikes her fancy. Just beware of her Death Perception and always keep her happy. Regularly found at @KyokaiTM & #[email protected].
POWUH: and LOLi Defender with 10998 comments
For me, while that booty was quite nice, I was more taken in by her nakedness vis a via a lack of pity. I don’t know if you could spoil me or not, but it feels to me like she thinks she has the Grail in the bag already. In her mind, she wants to concentrate on hurting Shirou as a proxy revenge. Wow. No wonder there is all this talk of tainting the Grail! The actors poison it pre-game.
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
The Prologue was all that was needed for this episode. Naked Illya is good enough. :3
POWUH: and LOLi Defender with 10998 comments
Nudity is more than just simple titillation, as it can be used to show a great many elements of character. It’s a state in which everyone is the most vulnerable. Or in this case, the most secure. So her “naked” hatred and the joy she feels for it really sells that this isn’t the Ilya from Prisma, the most recent example of the character. Heck, even Kuro isn’t close to this.
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
Illya cannot tittilate. 😛 DFC FOR TEH WIN!
POWUH: and LOLi Defender with 10998 comments
Bootylate is not a word in the OED. But I will champion it if necessary.
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
skyLOLion! Our Champion of LOLi! Hear! Hear! 😀
POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
Fact is, Berserker is the most powerful servant of fifth war so our loli is pretty confident. Though, she is pretty much brainwashed to hurt anyone related to Kiritsugu because of obvious reasons. Though, this scene was something unexpected from ufotable but very well done to get the message across.
POWUH: and LOLi Defender with 10998 comments
No matter the version, Berserker scares the piss out of me.
POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
His status screen IS scary! I’ll post it from home when I can. A sight to see.
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
Don’t forget to post the one with his new Noble Phantasm from “Berserker’s First Errand” – Spinning Assault Blue Lancer.
Also, someone was complaining that the Berserker Card was a “Minotaur”. It has always been that since FSN came out.
POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
Broomlancer! xD
POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
Here you go:
POWUH: 600-699 and LN Enthusiast with 623 comments
That Agility rank definitely betrays his big and slow looking appearance. Still the most broken Servant out there in terms of stats and NP. Nerf pls.
POWUH: and Athenaeum Châtelaine with 2212 comments
Why? He just looks like the long haired version of the gray Hulk?
I used to read about the Norse tales and fiction regarding the berserkir, I found them very fascinating and I’m rather surprised there’s not that much modern fantasy fiction written about them. I still remember being introduced to them while in high school, reading a young adult series about a teen boy who inherited the spirit of the berserkr, from Odin after father died. And used the power as a secret weapon in helping his people.
POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
In FSN, Berserker doesn’t come from Norse mythology rather it’s a class, similar to Saber (swordsman), Lancer, Archer and such. The speciality of Berserker is that they are mad warriors and due to it, their abilities are enhanced. They are usually summoned by masters who are magically weak but the other side of coin is that it requires a huge load of mana. This scenario is not true for Illya as she is quite powerful and even with her small body can give enough mana to the fuel-eating Berserker (Imagine him as an old conditioned car, eating more gasoline).
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
We all know what happened to the Master of Berserker in the last Seihai War… 😛
For Someone’s Glory!
POWUH: and Athenaeum Châtelaine with 2212 comments
Oh, I know it’s a class, I just was relating the term “Berserker” back to its origins from Norse myth and where I had first heard it. 😉
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
Remember, he is a BerserCAR!
POWUH: 900-999 with 915 comments
Wtf, Shiro? How did he get to the conclusion that she called herself fat with that line? .-.
POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
What did you expect from an airhead like him? 😉
POWUH: and LOLi Defender with 10998 comments
His teenage hormones are just a hair crosswired? Honesty? Dude, learn to use it best in future…
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
And he had to say it to the one who’s particularly sensitive and can retaliate. Rin could’ve killed him on the spot right there if she wanted to for him saying that.
POWUH: 900-999 with 915 comments
He deserved it alright.
It could be the plot twist, Shiro dies because he called her fat and everything is different 8D
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
One can only wish… 😛
POWUH: and Athenaeum Châtelaine with 2212 comments
What’s even stupider is that he doesn’t seem to have enough social knowledge, not to tell her that to her face. LOL
POWUH: 900-999 with 915 comments
Right? Being clueless is one thing, but not having common sense is just too much.
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
All the idealism and naïveté is blocking the flow of common sense to his brain.
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
You have to forgive him, papa Kerry was an ex-Assassin and that isn’t exactly a good background.
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
It’s a contemptible background.
POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
Though, Kerrytugu never told him much so it’s kind of a moot point. He was a loner in the end, so all his childhood trauma and what not will lead to many future faux passes.
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
ie, end up Carnival Phantasm faux passes.
– Minna ga shiawase ni!!!
POWUH: and Athenaeum Châtelaine with 2212 comments
The only problem with that is that any assassin worth his salt, knows how to blend in, and that includes having pretty good social skills. Also, didn’t that guy have a wife? He had to have some common sense somewhere, so nope, little Shirou doesn’t get by on that excuse either. LOL
POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
Aah, if only you’d watch Fate/Zero. Then you’ll know. 😛
Kiritsugu basically was over-protective so he never told Shiro about his past escapades except for the fact that he’s a magus.
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
A possible mistake in not telling Shiro. It might have served as a lesson telling him everything in life is give and take and not everything will go his way. Especially for what Shiro has in mind to do.
POWUH: 900-999 with 915 comments
How… did you guys come this far? I’m not complaining but I’m not sure what’s going on at all hahaha
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
@JPNIgor: Practice, my friend. Practice.
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
They changed Kuzuki’s VA to Japanese Bail Organa. He did not sound his usual self…(Oh god… I have become a Type Moonie to be able to pick this up.)
In other news: sign that you are a TypeMoonie – Everytime a True SABR attacks a base in Beyond Earth you shout: EXCALIBUR!!!
POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
Yep they did! I wonder why because he did even voice Kuzuki in CP. Maybe availability issues?
It’s funny though, even when she’s not shouting that, I still add it in at odd moments. :3
POWUH: iLurker with 9 comments
Right, availability issues. Kuzuki’s VA isn’t feeling well, so he took a break.
POWUH: iLurker with 9 comments
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POWUH: iLurker with 9 comments
That was supposed to be a new comment, not a reply. AAARRRGH.
POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
No worries!
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POWUH: Novice (36-50) with 37 comments
I’m certainly feeling a lot more respect for this Shirou compared to the ’06 version…must be the manservice.
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
Because this is not the Shirou you know.
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
And I don’t think I want to know the other Shiro.
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
Wow, you guys make it sound like he was a real irritating, insatiable pest. Was he that bad in the previous adaptation?
POWUH: Metanorn Lover with 151 comments
Not just in the previous adaptation, but it isn’t DEEN’s fault entirely. Fate route Shirou is generally known as the worst Shirou in personality. He is the greenhorn amongst greenhorns in that route, Show ▼
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
Yep. Fate/Shirou is just plain annoying. UBW/Shirou and HF/Shirou shows his GARness more. Show ▼
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
Tsk, I got annoyed just reading parts of this revelation. If not for the story’s plot armor which obviously protected him, a character this naïve and idealistic (there’s borderline chauvanism as well) should’ve died an early death long ago. That’s how I’d have it.
POWUH: iLurker with 9 comments
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POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
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POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
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Actually, Shirou is more of a housewife.
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
@Di Gi Kazune: After exhibiting his prowess as a doormat to everyone else, how could he not excel at housework?
POWUH: Occasional (51-75) with 51 comments
To put it on perspective, Eggplant himself stated that the Fate Shirou and the romance with Saber was disappointing. That’s significant because he wrote it.
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
In order words, Unlimited Blade Works is his way of making up for that mistake. At least he’s honest in admitting his missteps.
POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
The VN originally had multiple routes so Nasu always planned to develop the MC. The first version/route was just not good enough that’s all.
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
The very first version was:
Female Protagonist.
Male Saber.
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
So he need time to improvise because his disappointment in his previous works were too great.
POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
I’m just happy to get the refreshed version of Shiro. 😉
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
How long did it take to have that wish fulfilled? A long time, huh? 😉
POWUH: Metanorn Lover with 151 comments
with better technology and understanding in adapting the source material, I’d say it is worth the wait.
POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
Here here!
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
Noted.
POWUH: 600-699 and LN Enthusiast with 623 comments
Dat naked Illya, which is pretty much one of the controversies of this episode. People nowadays are too sensitive to see naked skin but doesn’t even complain about gore and murder. Kids these days.
There seems to be conflicting details about Berserker’s NP. If I remember correctly, Show ▼
Although we’ve already seen it in the OP, Saber still looks fantastic with that jacket. Another case of a single new clothing that changes the overall looks.
Of course her normal clothes from Rin is still as great as ever. I wonder if Rin ever tried those clothes for herself. I need to find an official art or a fanart of that.
Shirou’s life goes on even if he faced a deathmatch last night. His adaptability is astounding. But now he has a new
freeloaderguest in his house. Sakura and Taiga are not amused. More mouths to feed but for the guy who loves to cook it’s a good thing for him. Saber’s notoriety is her appetite after all. She finished that breakfast in no time at all while Shirou was on the phone.Funny thing that Saber and Kuzuki met and did a staredown in this episode as I also encountered the same thing yesterday when I was playing Ataraxia. What were the odds of that happening. I understand better what Saber was saying about him after reading his backstory there. Good stuff and totally enjoying reading Ataraxia along with seeing UBW anime. Best experience right now.
Speaking of Ataraxia, Mitsuzuri Ayako gets plenty of screetime there as well. And she was pretty nice in this episode. That part where she was spinning the keys was beautiful(Shiki is that you?). And she hit home on what she said to Shirou which is another insight to his character. That look of surprise was something to note about Shirou. She’s really one of the few persons who gets along and sort of understands him.
But no ufotable, you will not sway my feelings. I already have Rin and Saber. Don’t make me like Ayako even more. She needs more screentime. Good thing I have Ataraxia for that.
And finally, our resident tsundere doing some rounds and encountering trouble. She can pretty much handle things on her own which just highlights how strong Illya is and how weak Shirou is(for now). She definitely has reasons for not attacking Shirou, both personal and professional. At least until he gets in her way in which she’ll be ruthlessly going at him, which is next week. I do love the way those chess pieces in the preview show a small glimpse of what’s to happen next.
A rather quiet episode after the high octane one last time but I enjoy these kinds of stuff in the VN. Some might find it boring but it’s not unnecessary.
POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
I know right?! xD
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The wardrobe upgrade overall is amazing for all masters. Ufotable really made it work. I’m pretty sure we’ll be seeing Rin in some new clothes on the outing episode, hopefully.
The whole faceoff with Taiga and Sakura were funny as hell. This seems a bit different from VN, Show ▼
Saber on the other hand sure seems to be enjoying her current summoning. Her appetite reminded me of her curry fetish in CP. xD
Loving Ayako’s cameos, which are more than what I originally expected. Not to mention, she’s getting some really nice lines as well. Go her!
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I’m fine with the current pacing of the series. We can’t always have fight fiiiight after all. Have fun playing Ataraxia, dunno when I’ll get time. >>;
POWUH: Metanorn Lover with 151 comments
After the events of Fate/Zero, all of Saber’s gestures and reactions to Shirou have a totally different meaning to them now. Goes to show how important F/Z is for their character development.
I’m really liking the surprise screen time Mitsuzuri has been getting lately, she is showing her potential of being a best girl.
Now, onto next week. Can’t wait to see Rider again, both in anime and in real life. XD
POWUH: and LOLi Defender with 10998 comments
It feels like no matter what version, Rider will always be a fun character. I’m basing this on how much I loved the F/Z version…am I wrong in my anticipation?
POWUH: Metanorn Lover with 151 comments
Not exactly, elaborating on that would be spoilerific though. Show ▼
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
Yes. IskanGAR is an exception.
POWUH: and LOLi Defender with 10998 comments
He was soooooo freaking awesome.
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
You have gotta be awesome to be able to say: “Oi! Kinpika! Let’s screw this stupid grail war shit and take over the world instead! Nothing can stop my Ionian Hetairoi armed with your Gate of Babylon!”
His AWEsomeness is reflected by the fact that he is #2 in the male TM rankings. That is an achievement.
POWUH: 600-699 and LN Enthusiast with 623 comments
Unfortunately, we’re in the wrong route to fully appreciate F/SN Rider. She’s an interesting character but her time to shine is not this route but in the upcoming HF movie.
Also, Spammy ate my tl;dr earlier. Help please.
POWUH: Metanorn Lover with 151 comments
Yeah, I left a similar comment but spammy ate it too. Thanks for clearing it up.
POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
Saved both. Spamzilla gets over-excited with every new FSN editorial…
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
This time, I’m not entirely blaming the spam monster. He’s being goaded into a challenge. One it can’t refuse. Each one of these editorial have generated more than 50 comments. He’s gonna get fat off us all.
POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
Need to control his diet soon.
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
Expect rebellion when you try.
POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
Comes with the territory. ><
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
Then you are prepared.
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
And spammy will unleash his hougu: Unlimited Spanner Works.
POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
@ TK, very glad to see more than glimpses of fake-Shiki. She sure is having a good time.
Btw, I forgot, when was that Yuu related event?
POWUH: Metanorn Lover with 151 comments
It’s this weekend.
POWUH: Occasional (51-75) with 51 comments
I agree about the comments Shirou’s redesign. UFOTABLE has done a great job on giving him a new impression than before. Notice how he’s actually buff now? In hindsight it makes sense that he would be: He has a dojo at home, he’s reasonably fit and he does a lot of manual labor for others. It’s just that I never considered it because his previous designs (including the VN) show him as a scrawny teen with a silly blue-white shirt. Before he came of as a generic harem lead idiot. Now with his great physique combined with his black jacket makes him well… GAR.
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I do admire how the anime is doing a great job at “Show don’t tell”. The best scene for me is when Ayako comments that Shirou doesn’t laugh and Shirou gives a strange face. Its barely a few seconds yet it clues the audience on what makes Shirou tick. If this was the VN, Mushroom Eggplant would hammer us with several paragraphs of text.
One only complaint: Show ▼
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
Illya’s acting very confident she could take out Shirou and Rin. Maybe she should heed her maids’ warning the next time they meet. That overconfidence can prove to be her downfall. Yes, Berserker has shown his worth in strength yet it’s no guarantee for a win. In battle, it’s not always the strongest who emerges victorious. Fortune can as well smile on the one who is the smartest. Finding a way to exploit that three day reprieve would be good start.
So not even torture will work on you, eh? Somebody bring Akame ga Kill’s Esdeath!! 😀
I admire how bold Saber was, outwardly telling Shiro she’s using him as a means to an end to win the Grail and fulfil her own wish. Even more that Shiro is aware but going along with everything in a carefree manner. His laid-back tendencies may be misplaced considering what’s to come but it’s a bit refreshing to see a lead who isn’t over-stressing about everything. I wonder if Saber ever intends to tell Shiro what she knew personally of Kiritsugu.
Here’s what a bit over my head. I thought Servants were just what they are labeled and it’s the Master that reaps the reward. So how can a Servant be entitled to a wish if the Grail and the benefit that comes with it is meant for the winning Master?
Pfft, Sakura and Fujimura’s ulterior motives are so clear. They just don’t want to leave Shiro alone with a woman, especially one they don’t know. Textbook jealous females.
So this new Caster is a woman. Good. Anything is better than that bug-eyed murdering creep from the last war. His death couldn’t come soon enough. So if Archer’s deduction on what kind of potion she used is true, used to destroy love, I’m guessing she either had an unrequitted love or was unjustly made a widow before her death.
POWUH: and Athenaeum Châtelaine with 2212 comments
Honestly, I never really thought of her like that. I find her simply as a no nonsense woman that does care for Shirou, but like any wise woman that knows better, she doesn’t make it sound like she’s sheltering the man, but more so that it will benefit her somehow. Saber seems to be quite a righteous and honor-bound spirit. She doesn’t want Shirou hurt for her sake, but she can’t just outrightly tell him don’t bother to protect her, because he’ll most likely do the exact opposite.
I too like that Shirou knows his limits and will let Saber, who’s a better fighter, handle things, even though she’s now his friend and a woman. However, I’m not sure how look that hero of justice spirit thing he’s got going will pop up once again.
I’m just a newbie, but this isn’t the first time this was mentioned. In the prologue, Archer also mentioned about the wish benefiting him as well as his master. Maybe it’s a joint thing?
Yes, it was rather hilariously transparent. I mean, I can’t understand Sakura as a teenage girl, but come on Fujimura-sensei! You’re an adult, you should know by now a simpler, more discreet way of getting what you want without being so horribly obvious. 😀
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
Oh… you will like this this Caster who is like someone out of a Greek Tragedy… She is cute to boot too. :3 If you’ve watched CP (Carnival Phantasm, not Child Porn), you’d know who she is. Or Prisma Illya. :3
And don’t worry about Illya… Show ▼
POWUH: 600-699 and LN Enthusiast with 623 comments
It’s in the ‘official’ notice of the HGW when one gets to participate. Both the Servant and the Master will get a wish. Kind of like the fine print of the contract.
The Heroic Spirits are said to be promised the Grail in exchange for participating. It’s one of the incentives for them to be summoned. Heroes that have transcended space and time wouldn’t just get summoned without something in return. But as Fate veterans know, Show ▼
POWUH: and Athenaeum Châtelaine with 2212 comments
Well, that’s good. I’d hate for these warriors to just be summoned slaves that are just tools to be used at their master’s bidding for a war they get no reward for.
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
That makes it fair, then. Otherwise, it would’ve been a horribly one-sided arrangement. After all, it’s powerful historical figures being summoned as Servants so they deserve some respect. Saber is supposed to be Arthur but since she’s a girl, her name is Arturia Pendragon.
POWUH: and Athenaeum Châtelaine with 2212 comments
Oh! That’s who she is? I thought she was Jeanne d’Arc, but I guess Arthur would fit the whole Excalibur thing everybody has been talking about. Though this is the first time I’ve ever seen or even heard of a female version of King Arthur before. I would have thought Queen Guinevere or Morgan le Fay or even the Lady of the Lake before that.
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
You haven’t realised that after we’ve been literally spamming EKUSUKALIBAA~~!! all over the place? 😛
To quote kinokos: “I’m sorry, but your Jeanne is in another Fate/”.
After watching Fate/, King Arthur will alway be female to me. 😀 Only because then the Knights of the Round Table would be a reverse harem.
POWUH: and Athenaeum Châtelaine with 2212 comments
Well, Excalibur only really just clued me into the Arthurian times. I began to wrack my brain trying to remember a famous female warrior character and the closest were the women I mentioned, or a female version of one of his knights. So, I that point I kind of gave up since none of those really seemed to fit.
Also, someone mention that the servants are really a mixture of ideas from heroes and legends in history, so I thought well, maybe it’s Jeanne with King Arthur’s sword for a weapon, I could buy that.
But not once did I ever think King Arthur himself. Not only does she not fit my image of even a female version of him, but I’ve just never thought of a female version of Arthur period. I (and most popular culture) only really think of Arthur at two period in his life, the young boy of “The Sword and the Stone” and the older legendary king of “Camelot” and such. Saber just doesn’t seem to fit either of those categories so sorry, I just didn’t make the connection, and probably never would have unless someone said something. 😀
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
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POWUH: Meta Team and Ringleader Extraordinaire~ with 6433 comments
Oi oi! Spoiler tags!
POWUH: Occasional (51-75) with 51 comments
You know what I find amazing? Its been almost 8 years since the the first FSN anime introduced the franchise to popular culture, and new fans will always first assume Saber is Jeanne d’Arc. NO EXCEPTIONS. Is the really the only female knight that myth and history knows? Heck, Jeanne wasn’t even a knight.
Of course, when Saber’s real identity is revealed it usually new fans usually follow with “That’s stupid!”.
POWUH: and Athenaeum Châtelaine with 2212 comments
Well, I don’t really remember them every saying that Saber was a knight, so that didn’t really come in to my estimation. Also the term “knight” is used so loosely in popular culture and anime that it can pretty much be used in an interpretation of Jeanne.
Also, Jeanne d’Arc is probably the single most well known Western female historical warrior figure that is known to both East and West. So, unless they were bringing mythological female warriors into it, Jeanne is the ones that most would turn to when trying to guess her identity. Jeanne d’Arc seems to be pretty popular in Japan know as well. I think I’ve seen like 3 versions in just the last recent seasons at least.
And like I was saying above, King Arthur is weirdly one of those figures that almost never get genderbent. Also, in most popular culture, he’s only ever seen as the either the boy that pulls the sword from the stone or the older legend in Camelot. All other points in his life don’t seem to stick as well. Saber just doesn’t seem to fit him, even as a female version.
I’d rather think of her more as King Arthur’s daughter or the female version of one of one of his knights, moreso then the man himself. She really just doesn’t seem to be King/Queen material. 🙁
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
They even have a version of her in Shingeki no Bahamut and that’s airing currently this season.
POWUH: Meta Team and Meta-Analyst with 3844 comments
Jeanne was a magical girl who was duped by QB and fell into despair, ruining her soul gem. >_>
POWUH: and LOLi Defender with 10998 comments
yes, this actually happened….
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
True, it would be weird and a shock for first timers as it would obviously be something unexpected. In Fate/Zero, as Kiritsugu was admiring Saber as she fought, he called her “My lovely King of Knights”.
And don’t be ashamed. You’re not the only one thought she was Jeanne d’Arc. It’s happened in-series as well. Fate/Zero’s Caster mistook her for Jeanne the first time he saw her. He became obsessed with her ever since.
POWUH: and Athenaeum Châtelaine with 2212 comments
Another pretty good episode. I like the dynamic between Saber and Shirou. I really like their partnership and how Saber is protective of her master because of his magic handicap. It’s kind of cute that she pretends to be a foreigner. However, how shall Shirou go out and fight now that he has house guests? Though I’m pretty sure Sakura is one of the masters as well since this has pretty much been spoiled by the show’s heavy foreshadowing and other watchers comments. So, I wonder how she’ll take the fact that Shirou is one of her opponents?
Rin and Archer are doing some investigative work which is nice. We see them work together, and it looks like they are heading to another battle now.
Shirou and the other archery girl seem to have a history. I wonder how that will play out in the future? The teacher too is very mysterious. I keep forgetting for some reason they don’t allow outside shoes in Japanese schools. It was funny that that’s what he called Saber out on. 😛
Also, I’m beginning to figure out the connection between Archer and Shirou, I’ll see if I’m right at the end, but if what I’m thinking is true, that could be a very fascinating turn of events. 😉
Well, I’m interested in what will happen next, let’s see what will happen now. I don’t really care for Illya (does that little girl just have a magical portal in her pocket that transports her from Japan to Germany instantaneously?), so I hope we get somebody new. Also, If there are only 7 (?) masters and servants, then I’m guessing we won’t have anyone actually win any fight yet since this show is 2 cours and has to last for a while. So, let’s see where it goes from here.
POWUH: and Vampire Lover with 11746 comments
You’re half right about that. The thing is Unlimited Blade Works is a split cour series. So you won’t be getting the other half until Spring 2015. Right now, we’re heading for a cliffhanger. You should’ve seen Fate/Zero and seen what was accomplished with only 7 masters.
POWUH: and Athenaeum Châtelaine with 2212 comments
Oh, split-cour huh?
Well, if all the masters are defeated, doesn’t that mean, nobody wins? So, if everyone is defeated in the first cour, what’s left for the second?
POWUH: Occasional (51-75) with 68 comments
Been a while since I visited Meta. Glad to see Kyo’s TM posts are still filled to the brim with info that’s not even remotely mentioned in the episode xD