Ep 20. R

Rider and Waver continue their intense battle against Caster and his monstrous Elder God creature in episode 20 of Fate/Zero season 1, titled "R." As the penultimate episode of the first season, the stakes are higher than ever, and the fate of all the participants in the Holy Grail War hangs in the balance.

The episode starts with an explosive confrontation between Rider's mighty chariot and Caster's grotesque Elder God. Rider's noble steed, Gordius Wheel, charges valiantly towards the towering monstrosity, while Waver watches with a mix of awe and fear. Rider, never one to back down from a challenge, exudes his usual overwhelming charisma and confidence, determined to take down this abomination that defies all logic.

Meanwhile, a desperate discussion unfolds between Kiritsugu and Kirei at the Emiya residence. Kiritsugu reveals his ultimate plan to annihilate every participant in the Holy Grail War, and Kirei, who has been silently searching for meaning in the violence and chaos of the war, finds himself drawn towards Kiritsugu's unconventional approach. These two enigmatic characters share a deep conversation that exposes their conflicting philosophies and motivations, setting the stage for the final showdown in the coming episodes.

Back at the battlefield, the clash between Rider and Caster reaches its climax. As the Elder God unleashes a barrage of terrifying tentacles towards Rider, the King of Conquerors displays his unwavering resolve and indomitable spirit. With his unmatched skill and courage, Rider unveils his Noble Phantasm, "Ionian Hetairoi," summoning his loyal army of ancient warriors from every corner of history. This spectacular display of power brings a surge of hope to the battlefield, not only for Rider and Waver but also for the other Masters and Servants witnessing the legendary hero in action.

Simultaneously, Saber and Lancer arrive at the scene, drawn by the undeniable presence of the battle. Saber, with her unwavering sense of chivalry, cannot ignore the sight of a fellow Servant valiantly fighting against an abomination. Lancer, ever the honorable warrior, joins Saber's quest for justice, determined to avenge his fallen comrade and strike down the unholy creature wreaking havoc. With their combined strength and determination, they add another layer of intensity to the already epic confrontation, as their weapons clash with unstoppable force.

Amidst this cataclysmic encounter, Caster's Master, Ryuunosuke, struggles with the consequences of his actions. Overwhelmed with guilt and haunted by the atrocities he and Caster have committed, Ryuunosuke begins to question the meaning of their rampage. This introspection plunges him into a state of severe distress, leading to unexpected and dramatic consequences that shake the foundation of the battle.

As the battle rages on, a glimmer of hope emerges, even for the most unlikely of alliances. Kariya, still weak and tormented by the corrupted Holy Grail, stumbles across a wounded Berserker in a deserted building. Though Kariya has suffered greatly and his body deteriorates further, he gathers the last remnants of his strength and makes a desperate choice that will alter the course of the Holy Grail War and his own destiny.

In the closing moments of "R," the battle reaches a crescendo, with each participant giving their all in a struggle for survival and triumph. The episode lays the groundwork for the final climax of Fate/Zero's first season, promising an unforgettable showdown that will shape the fate of all involved.

With its epic battles, complex character development, and moral dilemmas, episode 20 of Fate/Zero season 1, "R," captivates viewers with its intense storytelling and breathtaking animation. It leaves us on the edge of our seats, eagerly awaiting the conclusion of the first season and the ultimate resolution of the Holy Grail War.