Kinoko Town is divided by the shopping street: the east side consists mostly of residential houses, while the west side is a district filled with high-rise buildings. Type-Moon Academy is located on the northern outskirts, halfway up a mountain, surrounded by hills and rivers.
The acquaintance that Mother Raikou mentioned is a wealthy family living in a skyscraper in the city district.
"How did someone like that become acquainted with Mom?"
"She often comes to our store to buy things. Over time, we got to know each other. Plus, we both joined the Kinoko Town Women's Association, so we've built a good relationship!"
On the way to the city district, Eiji chatted with Raikou.
"A small town like this actually has something like a women's association?"
Eiji was quite intrigued and asked calmly, "How many members are there? Which women are involved?"
"A few dozen, maybe. There's me, Tomoe, our dessert shop owner Boudica's mom, and that acquaintance's wife—all members of the association."
Can I join?
Eiji was very tempted!
Don't misunderstand—this was purely out of curiosity.
Absolutely no intention of becoming a "friend of women!"
Of course.
He couldn't say this in front of Raikou, or she'd think her son had become strange and start crying.
As they walked straight through the shopping street, the scenery visibly became more vibrant.
Various accessory and dining establishments lined both sides of the street. A large shopping mall stood at one corner, and pedestrians filled the intersections, creating the bustling feel of a major city.
Following the given directions, they arrived at an apartment building.
At the security office, Raikou called her acquaintance, and only after confirmation did the security guard allow them to enter.
That voice on the phone sounded a bit familiar.
Eiji had this thought as he followed Raikou into the elevator, which stopped at the top floor—the 20th floor.
Ding-dong!
Minamoto Raikou stepped forward and rang the doorbell.
Before long, with a soft click, the apartment door opened, revealing a stunningly beautiful married woman.
"Mrs. Minamoto, you've arrived."
The beautiful wife stepped aside from the doorway.
Her gaze swept over Raikou and landed on Eiji. When she saw him, her elegant smile froze slightly.
"…And this is?"
"My proud son!"
"I see… Please, come in."
A look of surprise flashed across the lady's face before she led them inside.
Eiji's expression turned peculiar.
This lady had luxurious golden hair, elegantly styled in an updo befitting a noblewoman. Her emerald-green eyes were as gentle as water, and her dignified demeanor was reminiscent of royalty.
She wore a white corset dress, accentuating her tall figure and graceful curves. She exuded an aura of refined maturity.
But she looked familiar.
She bore a striking resemblance to Souji, Nero, Jeanne, and Artoria—but as a fully matured version, carrying the charm of a sophisticated lady, hitting right in Eiji's sweet spot.
"Please, have a seat. I'll make some tea."
"Oh my, how could I impose? Let me help."
Eiji sank into the sofa, feeling like he was melting into its softness.
The two women exchanged pleasantries as they walked into the kitchen, leaving Eiji alone in the living room.
Nice place.
Eiji looked around.
The apartment occupied the entire top floor of the building and had a two-story layout. The lower level alone—consisting of the living room, kitchen, and other spaces—was over 200 square meters. A wooden staircase in the corner led to the upper floor, giving the place a spacious and grand feel.
"Mom, do we have guests?"
A series of light footsteps sounded from above.
A lively young girl, wearing soft cotton slippers, descended from the second floor and appeared before Eiji.
Their gazes met, and both froze.
The girl coming downstairs had the same silky golden hair as her mother, but hers was simply tied into a ponytail with a blue ribbon.
Unlike the school uniform she usually wore, she was dressed in casual clothing, exuding a more homey feel.
Eiji's expression was one of utter inevitability.
"Eiji? Why are you here?"
Artoria looked at Eiji in surprise.
"My mom brought me."
Eiji pointed toward the kitchen.
"Oh my? You two know each other?"
Just then, the two women returned, each carrying a tray with steaming tea and pastries.
Artoria's mother glanced between her daughter and Eiji, a look of confusion appearing in her eyes.
"Now that I think about it, you both attend the same academy. It wouldn't be surprising if you knew each other."
"Is that so? What a coincidence!"
Raikou chuckled.
Though matchmaking might be out of the question now.
"Mom, don't tell me the sword instructor you mentioned is…?"
Artoria descended the stairs, her expression turning wry.
"Yes, Mrs. Minamoto said her son's swordsmanship is exceptional."
Artoria's mother smiled gracefully. "I heard you've been looking for a skilled sword instructor, so I invited them over."
"This is complicated."
Artoria covered her face, exasperated. "I really want to say 'thank you'… but it was Eiji who beat me at school, which is why I wanted to find a stronger sword instructor!"
"Eh?"
"My!"
Both women simultaneously covered their mouths in shock.
Eiji spread his hands, confirming the truth of Artoria's words. The two women became even more astonished.
"This is more than just a simple coincidence!"
Raikou found it all very amusing.
"What an unexpected turn of fate. The world truly is small. But this might actually work out."
Artoria's mother recovered from her surprise and smiled. "Since he was the one who defeated you, doesn't that make him the best choice to teach you?"
"That… makes sense."
Artoria nodded in realization.
"What do you think, Ali?"
Raikou looked at her son with a smile.
"Hmm…"
Eiji glanced at Artoria.
Blue Saber looked expectant. Her eyes revealed her strong, determined personality—if he agreed, she would definitely pester him relentlessly for training.
Honestly, he didn't want to get involved in such troublesome matters.
But—
Eiji turned his gaze toward Artoria's mother.
"Auntie, how should I address you?"
"Oh my, how impolite of me—I haven't introduced myself yet."
Artoria's mother realized her slip and blushed slightly, then smiled as she introduced herself.
"I am Artoria Lancer. You can call me Auntie Lancer."
What a straightforward name!
"Alright, Auntie White Spear."
"?"
"I've always been a helpful young man. Artoria-senpai's swordsmanship training? Leave it to me!"
Eiji patted his chest confidently.
His determination was unwavering—he was just shy of writing a pledge of commitment.
***
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