video | @moon_hare

[ownself]

[This video starts with one silver-haired girl sitting prim and proper on a floor cushion. Behind her a studio just freshly scrubbed and waxed glints behind her. She’s looking a little resigned, somewhat downcast, but after a second of squaring her shoulders and mustering her chin up she finally decides to speak.]

Good evening.

With the recent surge of newcomers I felt it prudent to introduce myself in a way that would be accessible to everyone. I am Yui Shousetsu, from Everlight. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me for assistance on most matters.

[Now that she’s got that out of the way—]

I also would like to mention that I have begun a position as lead trainer at a martial arts dojo here in the city and the owner was kind enough to allow me to advertise its opening here. Of course we have the training arena for more robust battle simulations, but for those interested in sharpening your senses in a more rustic environment then please know we are always accepting new members.

[She tucks a strand of hair behind her ear.]

Bear in mind that on certain days we hold classes for children which is available on our calendar. If anyone is interested in volunteering or working part-time to assist in lessons then please feel free to notify me. It would be greatly appreciated.

... lastly, the owner has requested I include this message.

[As she pulls out a slip of paper from her sleeve.]

... "If you know what is good for you, you'll ditch the fancy schmancy gadgets and join our prestigious studio. Come with fire in your hearts so I can beat your ragged bodies until they shine like sharpened diamonds."

[Hmmmmmm... ok. Shousetsu lowers the paper and her head.]

Thank you for your time.

Comments

text; moon_hare

[ownself]

[Oh, she hasn't received a message like this before. Immediately cautious!]

She did?

[Somehow that makes her a little happy and just a bit anxious. But if this person is reaching out, then--]

Are you by chance her husband? If so, she has mentioned you as well.

[originbullets]

Yes, that would be correct.
Iri and I have been married for about ten years.
She thought it would be prudent if you and I talked.
Let me know if you prefer to converse here, or in person.
I work at an Izakaya if you'd like to stop by for some tea.

[ownself]

Ten years?

[So... she has been with this human for that long? As his equal? Lady Irisviel mentioned he was brought into her family but to maintain that relationship for so long? Was it even possible for beings like them?

...]

Perhaps we should start here. As impertinent as it may seem, I will readily admit that my previous experiences with mages were less than favorable.

Please forgive me, Lord Emiya.

[originbullets]

( If he's being honest, Yui's response is hardly surprising. Kiritsugu was too aware of how mages could be, treating humans-- even their own children, as disposable. He thinks back to Acht's treatment of Iri. How he'd callously discarded her into the disposal yard all those years ago, when he'd rushed into the blistering cold to fish her out of the snow. He'd often considered killing Acht himself, running away from the castle with his wife in tow. She'd encouraged him not to. To go along with the Einzberns plans for the grail, to give meaning to her painfully short life. He respected her wishes, despite how often he regretted his decision. Knowing what he does now was simply a proverbial knife to the chest. )

That's quite alright.
Understandable, even.
Iri had been badly mistreated by her own family.
I don't think they ever intended for her to develop a sense of self.
That was entirely my doing.