Lord El-Melloi II's Case Files {Rail Zeppelin} Grace note

Once a precocious prodigy who fought beside the King of Conquerors in Fate/Zero, Waver Velvet has grown into a cautious, calculating mage known as Lord El-Melloi II. Now a seasoned investigator in the bustling mage world, he tackles cases that strain belief and test his judgment. At the Clock Tower, the legendary hub where magic shapes daily life, El-Melloi moves from one puzzling assignment to the next, listening for hidden motives and connecting clues that seem unrelated. The stories weave through old wars, family feuds, and political intrigue, and El-Melloi must balance empathy with principle as he digs for truth. This is a detective drama set inside a sprawling fantasy universe and told with a patient, cerebral pace.

Released in 2019 as part of the Fate franchise, the series adapts the light novels Lord El-Melloi II's Case Files created by Makoto Sanda and Ukyo Kodachi. It centers on Waver Velvet as an adult mage investigator, blending mystery with Fate lore and a refined, cerebral storytelling approach. The animation leans into elegant characters and quiet tension.

While a spin off, it deepens the Fate universe by spotlighting the Clock Tower and mage society. It introduces new dynamics among powerful families and factions, and makes space for longer form investigations that emphasize deduction over flashy battles. Waver's grown up detective persona, together with Gray and Reines, fuels discussions about power, loyalty, and how past conflicts echo in present investigations. Fans dissect clues, relationships, and lore across forums, fan art, and theory videos, treating the show as a bridge between the older war era and modern mage politics.

The show draws a modest audience and earned a 6.8 out of 10 from 34 votes. Critics highlight a measured pace, intricate mysteries, and a focus on memory, responsibility, and ethical use of magic within a richly built world. The tone favors character driven dialogue over battles, which many viewers appreciate as a fresh take in the Fate lineup. It rewards patience and attentive watchers with strong world building and earned character arcs.