Transmigration as a Female Supporting Role Who Attempted Suicide

Such an amazing story, Alejandro and Kiara are by far my favorite fictional couple. The beautiful romance between the two, the plot twists, and not to mention I had to put this book in the time out corner like 5x.

<p>===Advice===<br />
Before diving into this novel, it's highly recommended to read or at least watch Fate/Stay Night. Doing so will significantly enhance your reading experience and make it far more enjoyable.<br /><br /><br />
In my opinion, the anime adaptation of the novel surpasses it in almost every aspect. I would only recommend reading the novel if you're keen on delving deeper into the Fate universe or interested in exploring the writing style presented in this story.<br /><br /><br />
===Background===<br />
Fate/Zero by Gen Urobuchi serves as a prequel to the celebrated, immensely popular, and extensively adapted visual novel: Fate/Stay Night. This story provides insight into the events of the Fourth Holy Grail War, which were only briefly touched upon in the original visual novel.<br /><br />
As a devoted fan of Fate and a close friend of its original creator, Gen Urobuchi eagerly accepted the opportunity to author this prequel.<br /><br />
Those familiar with Urobuchi’s works can undoubtedly anticipate the following: characters enduring suffering, characters meeting their demise, characters experiencing mental breakdowns, and... guns. Plenty of guns.<br /><br />
True to nearly every trope that earned him the nickname “Butcher,” Urobuchi once again delivers a narrative where he gleefully dismantles the very characters he has created.<br /><br />
"Perhaps Urobuchi’s Holy Grail War is indeed the true Hell." - Nasu Kinoko, the creator of Fate/Stay Night.<br /><br /><br /><br />
===Story===<br />
The plot centers around the Fourth Holy Grail War, a ritualistic battle-to-the-death involving seven magi. The victor earns the right to obtain the Holy Grail and have any wish granted.<br /><br />
Each participating magus is bestowed a powerful Servant, a being whose strength defies logic and even the laws of physics. Servants are Heroic Spirits: legendary warriors summoned into modern times through sorcery; Alexander the Great and King Arthur serve as examples. <br /><br />
Contrary to Fate/Stay Night, the narrative of Fate/Zero follows the actions of all Masters and Servants involved in the war. The perspective shifts frequently, cycling through the extensive cast of characters. This characteristic serves both as a strength and weakness in the novel.<br /><br />
The story commences at a leisurely pace, as the first two volumes primarily focus on character development. The limited action occurring during this period results in relatively few developments.<br /><br />
For those unfamiliar with the Fate/Stay Night universe, the extended introduction may feel unnecessarily prolonged and ultimately rather... dull. It is strongly advised to read (or at least watch) Fate/Stay Night before embarking on this novel.<br /><br />
From the third volume onward, the story's pace continuously accelerates, with battles becoming more frequent and deadly. If you endure the slow beginning, which mainly builds characters, you'll be rewarded with witnessing these familiar characters engage in creative, fast-paced duels.<br /><br />
Despite the swift pace, there are flaws. At times, the developments feel rushed, and the story fails to fully explore the many characters established over two entire volumes.<br /><br />
Thus, the story both gains and suffers from having an extensive roster of characters.<br /><br />
Fortunately, throughout the narrative, you'll eventually discern which characters are meant to play more prominent roles. For these characters, their journey and eventual conclusion will be deeply satisfying.<br /><br /><br /><br />
===Characters===<br />
The story tracks the seven Masters and seven Servants participating in the Holy Grail War. Each chapter shifts its point of view to a different character, enabling you to grasp the full scope of the Fourth Holy Grail War.<br /><br />
The first two volumes will concentrate almost entirely on acquainting you with these numerous characters, each hailing from distinct origins and circumstances. Once you become comfortable with these characters, the story will mercilessly remind you that they are adversaries in a brutal deathmatch.<br /><br />
There can be only one winner.<br /><br />
A harsh reality that might ironically seem cruel for a novel with such a large cast. Yet, it is precisely this clash between "many characters" and "only one winner" that allows you to experience such a brutal, heart-wrenching tale that constructs and destroys its characters.<br /><br />
Regrettably, not all characters receive equal attention from their creator. There may be instances when you feel somewhat disappointed by how poorly a certain character was handled, without being given the chance to reach its full potential or explored to the depth you desired.<br /><br />
Among the dozen characters, the following are arguably the MAIN main characters. The Holy Grail War will test not only their resolve but also their ideals and beliefs.<br /><br />
==Emiya Kiritsugu==<br />
An unconventional magus hired to participate in the Holy Grail War as a Master.<br /><br />
Dubbed a “Magi Killer,” he is a ruthless expert who combines magecraft with modern technology to assassinate magi. Always cold and calculated, he doesn't care what means he must employ to achieve his goal... at least, that's how he attempts to appear on the surface.<br /><br />
In truth, the present-day Kiritsugu grapples with internal conflicts after finding a purpose in life: his homunculus wife Irisviel and their daughter Illyasviel. With the knowledge that he’ll have to sacrifice his beloved wife to win the Holy Grail War, the once heartless assassin must now fortify his conflicted heart and make a difficult choice:<br /><br />
Should he retreat from the battlefield and protect his beloved at all costs?<br />
Or should he suppress his emotions and sacrifice anyone and everything for a chance to realize his idealistic wish of saving the world?<br /><br /><br />
==Saber==<br />
The gender-swapped version of King Arthur, summoned as a Servant of the Saber class. She is the same Servant who plays a pivotal role in the original Fate/Stay Night.<br /><br />
Much to her chagrin, the noble King of Knights is summoned under the command of Kiritsugu - a Master whose methods couldn't be further from her own. She aspires to secure victory through fair, noble duels with other Servants, whereas Kiritsugu prefers to assassinate other Masters from the shadows.<br /><br />
Behind her gallant figure and sharp blade, the petite knight conceals numerous regrets and doubts. Throughout the story, you'll witness Gen Urobuchi going to great lengths to exploit every vulnerability the King of Knights could possibly possess.<br /><br />
The author delightfully dismantles and tears apart one of Fate’s most beloved characters, delving into her ideology and flaws far beyond what the original Fate/Stay Night ever attempted.<br /><br /><br /><br />
===Writing===<br />
"This book of mine, that wasted the entirety of more than one thousand and four hundred pages of paper for the sake of shouting out 'I love Fate', is now respectfully set before you."<br /><br />
Gen Urobuchi summarized his own novel thusly.<br /><br />
As a fervent fan of Fate/Stay Night, Urobuchi poured his soul into crafting a novel with a compelling story, deep characters, and remained faithful to the Fate universe. Nevertheless, his fanboy tendencies occasionally interfered, making parts of the novel feel like poorly written fanfiction.<br /><br />
While the plot and characters are well-structured, the actual narrative delivering them feels clumsy at times, particularly in the first two volumes.<br /><br />
There are numerous instances where Urobuchi unnecessarily forces his fascination with guns onto the reader, making you wade through extensive information about gun models, sizes, bullet types, and more.<br /><br />
On other occasions, the narrative becomes sidetracked by lengthy discussions about the history of locations and traditions. Although the information might be intriguing at times, ultimately, you'll realize that nothing significant was learned, and your time was wasted on empty prose.<br /><br />
Urobuchi’s inner fanboy is most evident when you suddenly encounter terms like [Gáe Dearg: Crimson Rose of Exorcism]. Or even worse: [Invisible Air: Bounded Field of the Wind King].<br /><br />
The author's habit of dropping the full, overly elaborate name of every skill will undoubtedly make you feel excessively nerdy while reading this novel.<br /><br /><br />
Is Urobuchi's writing so atrocious that it renders the novel unbearable? Not at all.<br /><br />
Despite its flaws, the writing shines when depicting fast-paced action scenes. The narrative is swift, minimal, and easy to digest. Combat, in particular, is highly immersive thanks to the rapid pace of developments.<br /><br />
While the minimalism might occasionally feel underwhelming, especially when compared to epic moments from the anime adaptation, the action sequences are overall more than satisfying. When the story's pace picks up and battles commence one after another, the narrative excels in delivering the experience.<br /><br /><br /><br />
===Conclusion===<br />
Watch the anime.<br />
No, seriously.<br /><br />
With all due respect to Urobuchi’s efforts in creating this novel, I can't help but feel that this novel was conceived solely to be adapted into an exceptional anime.<br /><br />
The anime faithfully adapts the light novel and doesn't omit any critical details. In fact, there are more than a few scenes depicted far better in the anime, where the novel falls short.<br /><br /><br />
If you insist on reading the novel for whatever reason, brace yourself for a slow start and some sloppy writing at times. The first two volumes will offer little excitement, as you'll be introduced to the expansive array of characters and learn about every gun model imaginable.<br /><br />
Upon finishing the second volume, you can breathe a sigh of relief as the plot will finally return to the main event of the story: the deadly Holy Grail War. Characters will clash to the death in fast-paced, immersive combat.<br /><br />
Near the end, at its peak, the novel becomes engaging enough to fully immerse yourself in it. However, whether or not you find value in reading the novel when you have the superior anime adaptation is up to you.</p>

This is the best story I have ever read.  

It will be challenging to find characters with such profound psychological depth, with whom you genuinely empathize.  

Story - 10/10 - suffering, pain, and hope. The bitterness of parting and the joy of memories. I am deeply grateful to Uroboruchi Gen for the masterpiece he created.  

Text - 9/10 - masterful blending of precise narration and clever humor. While reading, I couldn’t help but feel as though I were engaging with a work of classical literature—in the best possible way.  

Drawings - 8/10 - thanks to Takashi for preserving the dark atmosphere so effectively. I believe it’s the finest visuals for a light novel that I’ve encountered thus far.  

I highly recommend starting Zero after finishing the visual novel "Fate/Stay Night." It’s only after completing the game that the light novel ties up all the loose ends, providing a complete understanding. The WOW effect is guaranteed.

After learning that Fate/Zero would be adapted into an anime, I chose to read its novel and ultimately found myself deeply impressed by the storyline and characters within.

The narrative of Fate/Zero occurs ten years before the events of Fate/stay night. While you don't need to play or watch Fate/stay night first to understand its story, doing so will enhance your comprehension of this novel.

Fate/Zero revolves around a war between seven magi during an event called the Holy Grail War. In this conflict, each magus summons their own servant (heroic spirits), each belonging to a specific class (Saber, Archer, Lancer, etc.). Their shared objective is to acquire the Holy Grail, a legendary artifact capable of granting wishes. I'll delve deeper into the story in the enjoyment section.

As this is a novel, I can't elaborate much on the visual art, but the illustrations included are sufficient to depict the characters and certain events in the story.

The characters in this novel are one of its strongest aspects, with numerous individuals each having their own agendas or goals. I'll provide descriptions of some key characters:

Emiya Kiritsugu is undoubtedly one of the standout figures in this novel. His personality contrasts sharply with his son Shirou (the protagonist from F/SN). He doesn't hesitate to employ any means necessary to achieve his objectives, yet despite his seemingly cold demeanor, he has a noble aim. He participates in this war because he believes the Holy Grail can grant his wish for world peace.

Another intriguing character is Kotomine Kirei, a man who finds himself involved in this war despite being a magi killer. He continually questions why he's participating and what his purpose in life is. Lastly, Saber, one of the franchise's iconic figures, is the heroic spirit Arturia—a noble, loyal, and brave entity whose goal is to redo her life, allowing someone more suitable and effective to lead Britain in her place.

In terms of enjoyment, I'd say Fate/Zero offers high value. Reading a novel can be challenging since the story's impact depends on how you imagine it unfolding. However, skilled storytelling can overcome such limitations, and Urobuchi Gen effectively conveys the tale of Fate/Zero. As you read, you'll vividly picture the scenes and characters' thoughts as if watching an anime or manga adaptation. The story is narrated in great detail, making it easy to visualize the events.

You can also anticipate a compelling narrative filled with betrayals, bloody moments, and plot twists. Given that Fate/Zero centers on a battle among seven magi, it's only natural to expect thrilling combat sequences—and Fate/Zero delivers on that front. If you're skeptical, feel free to verify it yourself! Overall, for fans of action, fantasy, and supernatural genres, Fate/Zero surpasses expectations. This is an excellent novel, and enthusiasts of these genres should definitely give it a try.

Fate/Zero is the prequel to Fate/Stay Night. I've only watched the anime series, but there's also a manga and several electronic games titled Fate/Stay Night.  

Fate/Zero has a different mood compared to FSN; it's darker and more dramatic. It's also more mature, filled with intelligent quotes throughout its narrative.  

Story: In short, the story revolves around seven mages who become masters of seven heroic spirits summoned to fight for an artifact called the Holy Grail, which can grant one wish. While FSN is about the Fifth Grail War, this one focuses on the Fourth, featuring many characters from FSN but placing them in secondary roles.  

Characters: Unlike Fate/Stay Night, most of the Masters in Fate/Zero are adults, each with their own personalities and objectives. The protagonist, Kiritsugu, isn't the typical "hero" archetype found in many series. Here, he is a man with heroic ideals but actions that make him human. In fact, all characters possess both good and evil traits, making them more intriguing. No one is entirely good or bad. Additionally, the Servants or Heroic Spirits aren't mere pawns who blindly follow their Masters' orders without question.  

They each have their reasons for fighting for the Grail and their own ways of thinking, which dictate their actions. So even if you don't like a specific Master, you might like their Servant, and vice versa. Throughout the story, the characters made me laugh or cry. Their complexity, personalities, and backstories are simply perfect, deserving nothing less than a 10.  

Narrative: The story is told from multiple perspectives, what I call multi-dimensional.  

Essentially, before the battles begin, you'll know the names of all the Masters and their journeys before becoming Masters. The relationships between all the Servants and their Masters are also showcased.  

This makes you care about their fates, not just the protagonist's. I found myself worried about four or five characters throughout the story, even when they were enemies. I hope the television adaptation of the Light Novel retains this excellent feature because it's what makes the story unique and enjoyable until the end. The first episode will be an hour long, and I think it's enough time to introduce all the characters. I'm really optimistic about it, but who knows?  

Ending: The conclusion of the story is debatable; some may find it pleasing, while others might hate it. In my view, the story has a good ending, though I won't spoil it here.  

Similar to Baccano, you won't see a single ending but many throughout the story. Since the narrative is divided, all characters must meet their ends or find peace somehow, and that's the beauty of the conclusion. This is a tale that showcases the sacrifices of all the characters and their fates. I hope you enjoy it.

Novel Review No.2  
Gen Urobuchi's "Fate/Zero"  

"The Holy Grail War is a competition that decides the ownership of the Holy Grail through an intense battle royale. While there have been many conflicts over supposed Holy Grails in the past, this term refers to those specifically based around Masters summoning Servants and meeting in battle until only one pair is left to claim the Holy Grail..."  

This is how one would describe the entire premise of each of the storylines within the Fate franchise. Despite the rich setting, there are elements like the 'Holy Church' and the 'Magic Association' that could be explored more deeply. The Fate series primarily focuses on the coverage of respective Holy Grail Wars, but each storyline creatively weaves in the backstories of the Servants and their interactions with other characters, particularly the dynamic exchanges between a Servant and their Master(s).  

For those unfamiliar with some terminologies involving the Holy Grail War of the Fate franchise, Masters are individuals, usually magi, chosen to participate formally in the Holy Grail War by obtaining Command Seals from the Holy Grail itself and forming a contract with a certain Servant.  

Servants, on the other hand, are Heroic Spirits (heroes who achieved great deeds and were worshipped after death) summoned by the Holy Grail for the purpose of competing under Masters. Servants are classified into seven standard classes: Saber (Knight of the Sword), Lancer (Knight of the Lance), Archer (Knight of the Bow), Rider (Mounted Soldier), Caster (Magus), Assassin (Silent Killer), and Berserker (Mad Warrior). Each hero wields skills and armaments known as Noble Phantasms, manifestations of humanity's illusions.  

That said, understanding a Servant’s backstory can be crucial to fully grasping a storyline. History itself is often vague, especially for events before the early 19th century when photography was not yet common. This is especially true for mythological narratives like the Arthurian Legend, Greek mythology, or Irish mythology. A well-thought-out incorporation of these references into a storyline can enhance immersion rather than merely namedropping them for minimal effect.  

While it can be challenging to make readers remember historical/mythological references, the effort can be rewarding, bringing these figures to life within the narrative instead of using them for limited purposes. Regardless of criticism or praise, the ultimate goal of these stories is to engage and entertain their target audiences, and ideally, sell well.  

Returning to the Holy Grail War concept in the Fate franchise, its premise offers an interesting take on the battle royale genre. Every participant is chosen to have their wish granted by the omnipotent chalice, depending on what interests them. Though the number of participants may vary across storylines, the core concept remains consistent. This setup works best as plot-driven narratives, similar to Suzanne Collins' "Hunger Games" trilogy or George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Fire and Ice" series, which prioritize plot over character development. However, some storylines, like "Fate/stay night," focus more on character growth, making them character-driven.  

The concept of the Holy Grail War has inherent flaws. Since the Grail requires the energy of all seven Servants to activate the Greater Grail, even the winning Servant must be sacrificed. As Masters cannot retrieve the Grail without a Servant, the system is inherently flawed, limiting the Grail's ability to grant wishes solely to Masters and Servants.  

Despite this, the storylines vary in perspective, reflecting the authors' differing aims. Among these, "Fate/Zero" stands out as the most convincing use of the concept, providing a compelling prequel to "Fate/stay night." Written by Gen Urobuchi in collaboration with Kinoko Nasu and Takashi Takeuchi, "Fate/Zero" explores the Fourth Fuyuki Holy Grail War from multiple perspectives, set ten years before the events of "Fate/stay night."  

Notably, Gen Urobuchi is renowned for his dark style, nihilistic themes, and tragic plot twists, evident in works like "Puella Magi Madoka Magica," "Psycho-Pass," and others. His involvement in the Fate franchise adds depth to its storytelling.  

"Fate/Zero" serves as a prequel to "Fate/stay night," explaining key events and character backstories. It fills gaps regarding Shirou Emiya's adopted father, Kiritsugu Emiya, the Arthurian legend, familial conflicts among the Three Founding Families, and relationships between characters like Illyasviel von Einzbern and Shirou Emiya. Reading or watching "Fate/stay night" first enhances comprehension of "Fate/Zero."  

What distinguishes "Fate/Zero" from other Fate works, despite its prequel status and predetermined conclusion, is its focus on the journey rather than the destination. It delves into the mysteries of the Fourth Holy Grail War, presenting detailed fight sequences filled with mature strategy, glory, tragedy, and beauty.  

Interestingly, while it is a thriller, only one battle truly stands out as intense, occurring in the final volume. Action scenes, though fewer, are vividly described. Themes such as chivalry, pride, mystery, showmanship, and entertainment emerge through character actions. Temporary alliances, strategic planning, betrayal, ideological clashes, and meaningful deaths enrich the narrative.  

Urobuchi's storytelling prowess transforms "Fate/Zero" into a Greek tragedy. Characters possess complex personalities, ideals, backstories, and worldviews, leading to tragic pay-offs. Morality is shades of grey, with characters driven by selfish desires, noble intentions, or sheer malevolence. Their ideals and wishes play pivotal roles in battles and dialogues, turning the war into a clash of ideologies.  

Kiritsugu Emiya, the protagonist, embodies utilitarian ideals, seeking a miracle to end all conflicts. His actions significantly impact the story's outcome. The ending ties neatly into "Fate/stay night," fulfilling Aristotle's aim for Greek tragedy by purging emotions and enhancing understanding of human and divine ways.  

Despite its strengths, Urobuchi's writing style can be verbose at times, lingering too long on descriptions of weapons, armaments, and vehicles. Terminologies like Skills and Noble Phantasms might confuse newcomers unfamiliar with Nasuverse concepts.  

Differences exist between the light novel and its anime adaptation, notably in character backgrounds and specific events involving Rin Tohsaka. Overall, "Fate/Zero" challenges perceptions of light novels and showcases the potential of battle royale narratives.  

In conclusion, I highly recommend "Fate/Zero" for its unique approach to the Holy Grail War concept and its adherence to Greek tragedy principles. My personal rating: Four-and-three-fourths Holy Grails out of five (9.5/10). Ratings may not matter much, but this reflects my appreciation for the series.

Yo?
Mamhwa ch 81= novel ch ??

Such a good story