I Don’t Want to Be a Heroic Spirit

"Welcome, Ruler," Archer greeted warmly.

Artoria gave him a polite nod in response.

"Thank you for accepting our invitation. I wish I could have prepared tea and refreshments to host you properly, but my Master and the others are waiting for us in the main hall," Archer explained with a courteous smile.

"No need. Since I am here in your domain, it's only fitting that I meet your leader first," Artoria replied calmly.

Nodding, Archer gestured for her to follow and led the way deeper into the castle.

On the path to the main hall, the group passed numerous white-haired homunculi. Unlike those stationed outside, these individuals seemed to lack combat abilities. Instead, they functioned as housekeepers and servants, tending to cleaning and other domestic tasks.

Their white hair and red eyes bore a striking resemblance to Illyasviel, Sella, and Lizleihi—typical of the homunculi created by the Einzbern family. But there was a clear difference.

The homunculi of Einzbern were masterpieces, endowed with souls and indistinguishable from humans in their individuality and emotions.

In contrast, these homunculi were little more than tools—automatons capable of executing basic commands but devoid of independent thought.

"Ruler, you seem to be paying attention to the homunculi," Archer observed, noticing Artoria's gaze.

"I am," Artoria admitted. "But there is no need for concern. I have no intention of interfering. As the Ruler of this Holy Grail War, my duty is to enforce the rules and punish violations. Creating and using homunculi does not constitute a breach."

"Thank you for your fairness, Lady Ruler."

Their conversation ended as they arrived at the main hall.

Pushing open the grand doors, Artoria immediately saw a Servant seated on the throne and a man standing respectfully beside him. On either side of the hall stood several others, unmistakably the Masters of the Black Faction's Servants.

The Archer who had guided her took his place behind a young girl in a wheelchair, while Caules and the wedding-dress-clad Berserker stood nearby.

As a Ruler, Artoria possessed the skill True Name Revelation, allowing her to discern the names and parameters of all Servants. However, her prior experience as a Chaldean Master meant she could recognize most Servants even without this ability.

Black Lancer: The pale-faced man on the throne, Vlad III, also known as the Impaler or Dracula. A ruler and hero of Romania, he was the legendary figure who inspired the vampire mythos.

Black Archer: The brown-haired man who had guided her, Chiron, the wise centaur of Greek mythology. A mentor to many great heroes, including Heracles, Achilles, and Jason.

Black Berserker: The silent wedding-dress-wearing woman, Frankenstein's Monster. A lifeform artificially created by Victor Frankenstein.

Black Saber: A hulking warrior clad in heavy armor, with silver hair and glowing runes across his exposed chest. His true name was Siegfried, the dragon-slaying hero of The Nibelungenlied.

Black Rider: Astolfo, one of Charlemagne's Twelve Paladins. Despite being male, his effeminate appearance often caused confusion.

Artoria's thoughts lingered on Astolfo. She still vividly recalled how one of her old friends had sacrificed 50 years of their life to summon a maxed-out Astolfo. While they had aimed for the 5-star Saber version, it was Rider Astolfo they pulled instead.

Of the seven Black Faction Servants, five were present. Missing were Black Assassin, Jack the Ripper, who had gone rogue, and Black Caster, presumed to be Avicebron, the master of golems and the father of Kabbalistic magic.

Based on Artoria's understanding of the story, Avicebron was likely working in isolation to mass-produce golems, ensuring the Black Faction retained a trump card. His absence here was strategic—to avoid revealing his capabilities to anyone with True Name Revelation.

"Welcome! Welcome to my castle, Ruler of this Holy Grail War!"

Vlad III spread his arms in a grand gesture, his booming voice filling the hall.

"I am Vlad III, the Voivode of Wallachia, protector of Romania, and ruler of this land."

Rising from his throne slightly, he asked with pride:

"Now that you have come this far, what do you think? Of my territory, my castle, my retainers—what is your impression?"

Noting the evident pride in Vlad's expression, Artoria spoke softly but with conviction.

"Impressive."

"Hahahaha!"

Vlad laughed heartily, his powerful voice reverberating throughout the hall.

"To have been chosen by the Counter Force, to shine as a hero in the annals of human history—these warriors stand under my banner! I know their great deeds and miracles. If I had such retainers during my life, I would have repelled every invader without question!"

"The greatest regret of my life as a king was lacking worthy retainers. But now, I am different. I have gathered the finest warriors to my side! With their aid, I shall drive out every foe!"

Vlad III was indeed a remarkable ruler.

Though his martial prowess was formidable, what set him apart was his generosity and trust toward his subordinates.

"And so, Ruler, I ask for your opinion."

After his hearty laugh, Vlad stood, his demeanor growing serious as he extended a hand toward Artoria.

"Will you join the Black Faction? Will you stand with me?"

"I have seen your battle with the Red Faction's Lancer. I desire the strength you displayed in that fight. In this Holy Grail War, I hope for your aid."

Vlad's sincerity was undeniable.

Yet Artoria did not immediately respond. Instead, she scanned the room, her gaze resting briefly on each person present.

"Indeed, you have gathered exceptional retainers—heroes who shine brightly in the history of mankind."

Her words were genuine. These individuals deserved the recognition.

"But…"

A faint smile curved Artoria's lips.

"I have had retainers far more exceptional than they."

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T/N: OOOOOOOOH SHITT QUICK SOMEONE HEAL HIM! COMMAND SEAL COMMAND SEAL!@!@#!

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