Tokiomi (Archer's master) and Kayneth (Lancer's master) are probably the strongest masters in this war in terms of magical aptitude.
Kiritsugu is no slouch himself as a mage, but they dedicate their lives (and build off their ancestors efforts too) to magic.
Magical capabilties of a master has a significant effect on their Servant capabilities. Saber for example, would have much higher stats and stronger abilities if Kayneth or Tokiomi were her master instead.
Kayneth went one step beyond, and included his partner's mana in the pact, significantly boosting Lancers abilities.
Kirei noted Saber's Parameters (basically stats) were especially high back in episode 3 or 4 - after all King Arthur is top tier servant. thats the reason she could match Lancer - who had disadvantage in terms on stats, but much higher Mana reserves thanks to his Master.
Mai rioghain
2025-06-07 06:17:23 +0000 UTC
Yeah I think he's literally like the strongest master in Zero (as a mage, not necessarily in other ways lol)
Jesse Vincente
2025-06-06 19:14:31 +0000 UTC
I think Lord El Melloi have enough mana to maintain Lancer, but he use his deep knowledge of magic to alter connection between servant and mage to gain advantage - another mages split their mana between servant and spells, but Archibald can spend all his mana on spells and enchantments
It seems if someone from ancient magic legacy - it is not about only raw power, but accumulating by each generation more knowledge, arcane secrets, forgotten or forbidden rituals. Not only just might makes right but might, tempered by inherited wisdom - I assume this is views of Lord El Melloi. But I may be wrong :)
Nice catch about first serpent skin π