It was a miracle he could even breathe.
All Gilgamesh could do was stare forward. The chains were redundant; His body was crippled by a combination of sheer shock and desolation. His red pupils were filled with dismay, and if one looked hard enough, you could see them shake from the emotions rampaging through his soul. They only stared forward as his arms refused to resist the restraints. Everything else was blurry, save for where his eyes refused to move.
He could only see the cord of friendship around Enkidu's neck.
Time seemed to slow down for King of Heroes. It is said one's life flashes through their eyes mere moments before their death. Though many have come to reason it was the mind racing to find any possible information to escape the predicament, most held firm to the emotional bearing of the act. As images of all the pleasant times he and Enkidu had spent together flashed before him, Gilgamesh still refused to move. Through all the memories that passed, he could not find any understanding of why his only friend would do this to him. He could find no answers.
Seconds stretched into eternity, but his mind only scrambled for reasons.
Through his shaken stupor, Gilgamesh did not realize Enkidu's arms were shaking before him. His face was a flurry of emotions mixing from anger to satisfaction. His eyes would flash with a hint of confusion, only to fill with determination in the following second. Still, it appeared Enkidu could not decide whether to go through with the decisive action he had proclaimed. His arms merely shook as he stared into the eyes of the King of Heroes, refusing to ignite with lightning to summon the fatal chains.
Gilgamesh, at a loss, was desperate for any answer as he looked up. "Why… Enkidu…?"
His voice was far weaker than he had ever allowed. In this moment, it did not matter to him, for every hope that he'd see his friend again, and bring him to Chaldea, crumbled like broken glass. He wanted to understand, but he could not. Enkidu, though meant as a weapon to reel the King of Heroes properly, had become a friend of mankind and himself. It paralyzed him, and shook every fiber in his body.
As if to wrench him from his own hesitation, Enkidu's eyes narrowed. "…Because it must be done!"
His hands rose once more, yet Gilgamesh could only stare forward. Yelling in the distance was drowned out, and Enkidu's movements blurred as his mind fell numb in partial acceptance for the situation. Though he stared forward, he did not see his friend jump back swiftly to dodge several bursts of dense prana as they slammed into the ground only a few meters from Gilgamesh. As the dust surrounded him, it matched the state of his mind.
An allied servant landed in the ruined remains of the grass before him, but he did not acknowledge the silhouette within the cloud. Even as the chains around him unraveled, his confusion did not. His eyes only narrowed in turbulent thought as he clutched the familiar cord.
:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:
Chapter I: Tough Revelations
:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:
"You stupid, arrogant king! Snap out of it already! Do you intend to make this goddess lose her patience with you further!?"
There was no response. Her attempt failed.
Ishtar grit her teeth amid the cloud of settling debris. Though her bow fired rapidly on her command, sending shot after shot towards Enkidu, it was useless. Golden projectiles formed and fired to counter all of her attacks. Extras were sent towards Ishtar, but she quickly blocked them with attacks of her own. With a huff and scowl, she put great effort into holding the stalemate, but she worried he would close the distance to break it; Something was wrong with Enkidu, but he was clearly as mighty as ever.
With her hand outstretched, she launched a large blast of prana that would not be easily countered. Enkidu leapt back, evading the hit as it sent shredded grass and earth airborne. Using the slight pause, she took her first glance at Gilgamesh. "Hey! A little help here!?"
Her harsh tone faded towards the end, but her narrowed eyes remained. It was a good thing she remained on the ground to act as a delaying shield, because the blonde man in her vision was not recognizable. His face was borderline blank, save for a storm of turmoil within his scarcely narrowed, red eyes. He held onto his precious neck cord with one loose hand. Even if something was very different about Enkidu, only the green-haired man could have made such an impact. Not wanting to stare at the possibly broken archer, she turned back to the figh-
A shot of golden energy raced past her face, cutting into her cheek as it flew. The blood trickled, her eyes widened, and she narrowly dodged the second one. Enkidu's form quickly appeared within the remaining dust cloud, dashing towards her at great speed. One arm glowed brightly with a makeshift blade of prana extending from his sleeve. With a disturbing and crazed visage, he closed the distance, but she couldn't move. If she dodged, then he may continue his charge towards Gilgamesh only several meters behind him.
She growled as her heavenly boat quickly charged a new shot. "Get back, you!"
Then she heard Gudao's telepathic voice. "Ishtar! Grab Gilgamesh and evade!"
Without hesitating, she turned the bow downwards to fire the shot at Enkidu's path. The charged shot exploded as she flew towards Gilgamesh. She grabbed the armored king around his injured torso; There was no time for delicacy. Though she felt slight sympathy on finding only a grunt for resistance, she summoned her bow back to her side. After grabbing it securely, she used a burst of energy to force them further back, only to feel the approaching presence of Enkidu. She did not turn back, but placed her trust in the approaching servants.
They did not disappoint.
Enkidu quickly dodged backwards as several beams of light slashed the meadow in his path. He growled, forced to dodge further backwards as the solar bombardment rolled towards him. They were joined by precision bolts of fire from the sky as the lightning-wreathed Gordius Wheel flew into view over the tree line. Beneath them, Ozymandias kept motioning with his staff as the meadow's edge as Ishtar came to a halt beside him. She looked around as the rest of Gudao's team appeared.
As Ozymandias continued his bombardment, Mashu landed within the defensive reach to drop off Gudao and Fou. She was quickly followed by Karna and Brynhildr as they flanked the pharaoh. Helena took a position on one of the trees, sending her tome forward to assist the rider with precision bursts of prana. Ishtar kept her position by the master and Gilgamesh, but repositioned her weapon in case she needed to act. With a raise of his hand and a telepathic signal, Ozymandias and the circling, overhead pair stopped their suppression fire.
"Stay defensive! I want answers!" Gudao ordered as his team stared warily into the smoking remains of the meadow. He passed a quick glance at Gilgamesh, noticing his wounds and troubled expression. He turned back towards the cloud as Enkidu's form appeared within.
"Unbelievable… Mother will not be pleased…" the silhouette spoke as he stepped out of the cloud. Ishtar narrowed her eyes as Enkidu glared at them. "I intended to deal with you after I struck him down… I can't believe I hesitated."
"Can't believe!? He's your friend, Enkidu!" Ishtar yelled back incredulously. "You would never turn on Gilgamesh! Why now!?"
"Ishtar, we shouldn't provoke him!" Roman's voice cried out from Gudao's wrist-worn communications device, though Chaldea did not bring up a visual. "He's as strong as-"
"We can handle him, Doctor," Ozymandias called out, but he kept his glare locked on the green-haired man. "This is no question. We would have to get serious, but we can certainly handle him even before Gabrielle's team arrives."
"Handle me? How overconfident…" Enkidu sneered at the pharaoh, but he did not budge. "You Chaldeans believe you can do anything… You will taste only failure."
"Oh! But I don't believe they will! Not this day! Most certainly not!"
Ishtar looked around in surprise, as did the rest of their formation save Gilgamesh. As she glanced his confused demeanor, it appeared the disembodied voice even caught Enkidu off guard. There were no additional signatures to detect, nor any feint presence of a regular person. The other team was still distant, but approached swiftly, so it couldn't be them. She glanced at the caster and rider duo who scanned the wood lines quickly.
"I sense your anxiety, but fear not! I am a friend!" It spoke once more, but this time Fou began to growl. Mashu looked curiously at the fluffy creature by her feet as it glared towards the nearby woods. "Yes! Myself and the young lady who will appear shortly to you… We are definitely trustworthy! … Not like that man who called himself… Enkidu was it? Yes… That contradicts what I remember… certainly…"
"This voice…" Gudao mumbled to himself as Mashu racked her brain.
Ishtar looked between them, the unresponsive Gilgamesh, and the irritated little… demonic, yet adorable, beast at their feet. "This person is…?"
"Familiar… but I don't recall who…" Gudao admitted quietly. Mashu nodded her head slowly, but Fou's growling grew louder.
"You don't remember me!? I'm crushed! Crushed, Gudao! Almost as crushed as the King of Uruk was before he left on his journey to the underworld! Oh, but he's in fair spirits now, I can promise you! That journey offered just the medicine he needed!"
"Wait! What did he just say?" Roman's voice cracked over the connection. Gilgamesh shifted in Ishtar's peripherals, making the goddess turn to the king. Confusion filled his features once more, but any despair was now slowly being replaced with something far more familiar: Anger.
"This voice is suggesting the current Gilgamesh has already been to the underworld," Ozymandias declared loudly as he kept his gaze locked on Enkidu. The green-haired man did not move, but his eyes narrowed. "If that is the case… You, impersonator! Answer! Who are you really?"
"Impersonator…?" Mashu asked quietly. Ishtar glanced at her curiously, and it appeared even Gudao was a little clueless.
"Enkidu… he passed away before my journey…" Gilgamesh mumbled, though the goddess was uncertain if he was answering or mumbling to himself. All she knew was that the King of Heroes slowly got to his feet, serious injuries or not, and glared ferociously at the green-haired man nearly two hundred meters away. Mashu and Gudao quickly turned to the accused as Gilgamesh growled.
"It seems my element of surprise is all gone…" Enkidu snarled as he glared at the now currently enraged Gilgamesh. "Wounded or not, taking them plus you may be my untimely demise… No. As the perfect weapon, I cannot allow myself to fall so early. Count your stars but remember, humans… your struggling will all be in vain. It's better you go off and die to save us the effort! Your fate was determined!"
"You! You dare impersonate my friend!?" Gilgamesh roared as nearly four dozen portals appeared above him. Helena had to jump from her perch upon being visually blocked by the angered king's bombardment prep. "You will suffer a fate worse than death! Stand still and receive your punishment!"
Gudao didn't even attempt to stop the attack; Ishtar was glad he knew better then to try. As the king's bombardment began, Ishtar was partially relieved Gilgamesh had quickly returned to his senses. Even as the assault of golden weapons tore the ground asunder, and Enkidu swiftly fled into the sky in shocking flight, Gilgamesh only growled. He began walking forward, though he shook from the vicious injuries and anger. He barely winced, but soon growled at the goddess.
"That's enough," Ishtar declared as she kept her grip firmly locked on his wrist. The king's glare amplified as he turned to face Ishtar, making Mashu and Helena grow nervous. "He's gone, King of Heroes. Whoever that was… he flew off."
"Unhand me, Ishtar. I am pursuing that faker!" He spat, though no portals formed against her. She was relieved of that, at least.
"Now, now… The goddess is right, Gilgamesh! He's long gone with those extra abilities that mother of his provided." This time, the voice was not amplified.
Ishtar released Gilgamesh and turned her large bow behind her. Bushes rustled as a presence suddenly grew tangible; Whatever this individual used to cloak both of them was released, and the goddess could feel both. Though one was undeniably a servant, the other was unusual in presence. Though it baffled her, she kept her guard up as they appeared from the brush.
"Not one step closer! Don't think we're so willing to trust you after we've been betrayed so recently!" Ishtar warned with a scowl.
"Ishtar, wait! He's…!" Gudao spoke in surprise, making the taller of the newly revealed pair chuckle.
"Yes… the one who saved you back then!" the long-haired man exclaimed. His white hair, which was pristine and beautiful, flowed behind him as he stood holding an unusual, ancient wood staff. His flawless white robes contrasted his baggy black pants with golden accents. Colorful ribbons adorned his clothing and staff, though they did little to attract attention compared to the unusual hue of his eyes; They almost seemed opalescent as they gazed at them. His hair also seemed to shimmer with the range of the rainbow.
"Can you greet quickly and properly? You're supposed to be doing something…" Beside him stood a smaller girl covered by a giant, black cloak. It was decorated with unusual, silver designs and pointed ornaments, couple with a pair of little protrusions on the hood that resembled ears. It was her vibrant, purple braid and bangs that attracted the most attention, if not for her rather skimpy clothes beneath. "These humans are not what you're tasked with..."
"Now, now, Ana… I didn't trick you, and this is a moment I long waited for! Have some patience!" As the man smiled, the small girl groaned, but Ishtar kept her guard partially up. Though Gudao recognized the man, she would be wary until they showed their true colors.
Gudao smiled and nodded. "We never properly introduced after you saved me back then, did we?"
Ishtar stared, with bow at the ready, as the newcomer chuckled. "I did say our proper meeting would come later. As promised, I shall now-"
Fou, who had somehow run up a nearby tree unnoticed, used the extra height to jump onto the man's face. "KYUUUUUUUUUU!"
"Ah you wretched thing! Get off me!" the man exclaimed as he fell to his knees. The smaller, hooded individual next to him caught his staff while he tried to pry the furry critter off his face. It wasn't working out well. "You damned beast of calamity! After all I've done for you, you little-!"
Ozymandias laughed heartily, who was soon joined by Helena's giggles while Ishtar sighed in exasperation. A growl of aggravation turned the goddess' attention back to Gilgamesh, and she found Karna and Brynhildr monitoring him subtly yet warily. Though the king's glare held to the north where Enkidu had fled, an occasional glance was shot at the antics of the newcomer. Although he was now in a far more recognizable mood than previously, this newfound anger was leagues worse.
'At least he's back to normal...' Ishtar glanced back at the newcomer, though some suspicion remained. "Should we help… him?"
"Please don't," Ana stated flatly as she stared at the fighting pair. "I'm… enjoying this."
:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖЄ ( -III- ) ЭЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:
Gilgamesh sat against his tree, begrudgingly allowing the male master to apply a healing spell with the assistance of his mystic-code uniform. Gilgamesh glared forward, making eye contact with none of the other servants, though they were preoccupied with other matters. Nearly half of the force was defending against the sudden appearance of wyverns in the canopy nearby, and a few stood guard for the female master at the center of the ruined meadow. Though he boiled with anger and resentment, his eyes wandered to the second group who had been given a break to enjoy a proper reunion.
"A male King Arthur! …I always wanted to say that!"
"Merlin…" Arturia sighed in mild irritation, but she smiled warmly at him. "I'm glad you're as light hearted as ever."
"Not as happy as I am to see you smiling so brightly, I assure you! Chaldea has done wonders! But so has Shirou and your knights, truly!"
"I see... so you're somehow privy." She smiled back and chuckled. "We have must to discuss, old friend. You don't have anywhere to be, I hope?"
"On the contrary! Our paths align!" Merlin grinned as Ana shook her head in mild irritation. "I'm afraid you'll be dealing with me until the singularity is handled!"
Arturia continued to happily converse with the newly introduced Merlin, and the two had quite the emotional reunion… after she and her counterpart helped pry Fou off of him. Arthur stood happily at their sides, occasionally joining the conversation to the caster's interest and delight. Ishtar floated nearby to listen, though she spared a few glances towards Ana who held a noticeable distance from the rest of the group. For the rest, it was a warm reunion that contrasted the cold one Gilgamesh had received.
It truthfully angered him Arturia had reunited with an old friend while he was denied such a gift. She, who had always denied his advances and offers, though that was part of her appeal, received further happiness for her past tribulations. It irked him to see others happy when he was only granted further grievance. At least the newly unveiled caster, even if limited by the unusual state of his summoning, had been of definite use and assistance.
The king's focus would have usually lingered on Arturia, but this time it rested with Camelot's Court Magician.
Gudao continued the healing process Merlin had forcibly started, which Gilgamesh retroactively permitted the white-haired man to do until the other team arrived. It was either they did it or another one of the casters, but he felt strangely comfortable allowing Arturia's Court Magician to act; They were all preferable to Nightingale, however, and it took Beowulf and Brynhildr to get her to back down. Being rather accepting of Merlin was another oddity and sense of silent acceptance he could not explain. He at least did a good job without causing additional discomfort.
Unfortunately, the news and explanations unveiled while he healed the King of Heroes were far from soothing.
Gilgamesh scoffed at the revelations. Enkidu's memories, after many speculated he had been resurrected, regressed to a state before their friendship. Additionally, he was the intercessor between an alliance of three goddesses whose sole objective was the destruction of Uruk. If it was actually Enkidu or not, many did not know, but there was no doubt he had used his abilities to annihilate several fortress cities of the era; The once prosperous Babylon had been among the number.
He could feel his anger multiplying with every second. Solomon had not just forged a way to bring these foul, degenerate beasts against his kingdom, but turned his only friend against him as well. The King of Magic had also managed to rope some of the divines into assisting, and he felt confident in naming which ones would have gladly accepted the proposal for destruction. Humanity be damned or not, the grand caster had made this far more personal than he should have. The King of Heroes would be creative in his punishment.
"I'm almost done, Gilgamesh," Gudao spoke quietly, yet firmly. His glare turned to the male master, but he made no eye contact in return. "Sorry I'm not the best at this. The other casters would be more efficient."
"You are doing fine enough, Gudao, but I wish for silence."
"Right… sorry," Gudao sighed as he poured his focus back into his healing.
Gilgamesh huffed. A small apology wasn't going to help anything, but the male master was always at least thoughtful to him. He was an interesting master compared to his previous ones, and preferable to Gabrielle by his standards. Truthfully, he had some shining points when compared to the rather average Haku or Hakuno, but he wasn't as interesting as someone like Kotomine. That said, he never tried to be something he wasn't, and Gilgamesh could respect that a little.
He was especially glad the master also had his priorities straight, which was one of his shining points. After the dragons were dealt with, he had made the decision to proceed directly to Uruk and not waste time; It was a decision the King of Heroes appreciated. While Merlin inferred he had a convenient way to get there, all Gilgamesh cared about was arriving in his kingdom. There, at the caster's promise, he would have all his questioned answered correctly by someone who was definitely their ally against Solomon's scheme.
They would soon depart to meet his living self.
:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖЄ ( -IV- ) ЭЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:
Beneath the blanket of stars, the tranquil night air was still. The torches of Uruk had long since been extinguished, letting only the warmth of the palace's glow pollute the darkness. Above, the stars twinkled brightly with all the glory that inspired countless. The lone moon rested among their sea, half way to full or vanishing to nothing upon first glance. Silence defined the air, allowing nothing to hinder the beauty of the endless stars…
…until the king's voice did. "I've been wondering where you went, Enkidu."
"Just here." The green-haired man, with a smile that shined like the celestial ocean, turned towards Gilgamesh as the king walked onto the dark balcony. His bare feet clapped lightly against the balcony brick as he turned to properly face the former adversary, causing his loose, tunic to sway with the momentum. While keeping his smile, the androgynous man folded his hands behind his back calmly.
The King of Uruk stopped walking and crossed his arms casually, making the hallway torches backlight his perfect, muscular form. His hair was lifted as it usually was these days, and shined with all the glory of a king. The sandstone colored garb, with a red underlining, hung loosely from one shoulder to cover most of his torso and legs. It exposed the lavish golden jewelry that adorned many parts of his upper body.
Gilgamesh's expression was blank as he sighed. "I have much to accomplish in the morning, so I sought to bid you a proper good night."
"My apologies for keeping you up further in your search," Enkidu bowed slightly as his smile faded. "I did not mean to cause you delay, Gilgamesh."
"It is no matter. If it were anyone else, I would have lost my patience at the very thought… I should have known you were star gazing. You love nature."
"The natural order is very beautiful, whether it basks in the light of the sun or the twilight moon," Enkidu replied with a blissful smile. "It's wondrous."
Gilgamesh fell silent, allowing his friend to appreciate the night without any unnecessary comments from the king. They remained there quietly, until he felt the exhaustion tug at the edge of his vision. He turned to leave. "Have a good rest after, Enkidu."
"…Have you ever looked at the moon? The stars? They're so beautiful." That had not been the response he was expecting.
The king stared at his friend, but Enkidu remained focused on the moon. Slowly, the green-haired man turned his inquisitive stare to meet his red gaze. He smiled apologetically. "It was just a fleeting thought, sorry… Please have a pleasant sleep, Gilgamesh."
Silently he nodded, turned, and walked back towards the glow of the hallway. Enkidu returned his gaze towards the heavens, even as Gilgamesh's retreat slowed to a crawl. By the time he reached the threshold of the palace light, with its warm embrace beckoning him inward, the king had stopped. Lost in thought, he only stared forward into the empty hall.
In the many days since their world-shaking conflict, he had come to appreciate the time spent with his new friend. It was a rarity of tranquility for him he had long since forgotten. While he was glad many waking hours were spent in each other's company, he needed his sleep. The kingdom had grown restless recently, and he had to make certain his subjects did not stray far from his edicts; Doing so while tired was beyond grating.
Still, the nostalgia of those few seconds gazing upon the heavens fluttered through his mind. Long gone were those days of sitting in his favorite, childhood spot to stare upwards endlessly in calm bliss. These times were filled with management and his ceaseless search to acquire great treasures, and though they made him content, they came with occasional vexing obstacles. His appreciation for something far simpler had been replaced by greed for worthy creations.
With Enkidu's simple inquiry, the thought was seeded in his mind. Though he believed himself to be mighty and infallible, maybe there were still a few things his new friend could remind him of or teach. Possibly, the King of Uruk could discover joy once more through different means, without any hassle to sour its taste. Perhaps… just this once, he can willfully accept the next morning's exhaustion to sate his newly-revived curiosity.
Gilgamesh turned and walked back towards Enkidu.
:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖЄ ( -V- ) ЭЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:
Endless white noise faded away into the ambiance of surrounding light. The gentle claps of hooves against compacted dirt drifted into his ears, joined by the calm creaks of wood and muffled, enthusiastic chatter. He could feel the cool breeze mix with the sun's warmth upon his face. As he remained inclined against the soft fabric, his body was enticed to sleep further; The reemerging disappointment and frustration argued otherwise.
A familiar chuckle, followed by a friendly voice, decided the answer. "You seem troubled, Gilgamesh… Are you alright?"
With newfound vigor, the King of Heroes opened his eyes and turned his vision to his left. He did not see the open plains of his lands, nor the peculiar contraption he laid upon, but he could have been anywhere else and not cared. Enkidu stared with worry down at Gilgamesh as he sat beside him, letting his green hair blow in the breeze as the white carriage continued down the dusty road. The king's voice was caught in his throat, and he felt confusion and joy mix together with his anger and suspicion… but that growing, genuine smile was definitely-
"Finally awake, are we?"
A frown formed on his face as he turned to the right. He was met with the blank expression of Ozymandias as he gazed back, receiving the King of Heroes' glare without worry. His loose, brown hair gently fluttered with his white cape, and the golden adornments shined as brightly as Gilgamesh's armor in the early-afternoon light. Paying him no further heed, nor answering his question, he glanced back at Enkidu, only to see he had vanished… or rather…
Enkidu was never actually there.
Now frowning firmly, Gilgamesh rubbed his eyes of any lingering sleep then took quick stock of their position. The pristine, white carriage looked like something out of a fairy tale, and it was likely Merlin's handiwork judging by the pinkish flowers. It was joined by another, with the calls of Iskandar's mounts echoing from further ahead. The soft fabric he rested upon was a rain cover of sorts, but it worked fine as cushioning. Even as he recognized the roads, farmland, and vast plains near his kingdom, a curious thought lifted some of his frustration.
He finally answered Ozymandias. "…How long have I slept?"
"Several hours," Ozymandias noted as he stood at the edge of the carriage's roof. He presented a faint, amused smile. "I believed one cannot fall into slumber while angry, but I suppose being present in their time and kingdom can make a difference. At the very least, I, the Sun King, made sure you would not be disturbed by anyone or anything."
Gilgamesh clicked his tongue, making Ozymandias chuckle. Still, there was truth to his words. During all that time spent in Chaldea, he only took a rare, light nap which lasted half an hour at most. Never had he truly allowed his servant body to fall into a restful state and dream; He kept to his own thoughts and devices, and occasionally strolled within the facility with no one else around to bother him. To have fallen asleep by accident was unusual, but he did not linger on it… Perhaps he was just that comfortable, as Ozymandias stated.
"You're more thoughtful than I give credit, at times," The King of Heroes replied dryly. "Shouldn't Nitocris be with you?"
Ozymandias' smile didn't fade, but he shrugged. "Iskandar is keeping her entertained with wild stories. He expects you will join him as we approach the gates, but until then, Nitocris keeps him and Lord El-Melloi II company."
As if on cue, the rider's loud laughter boomed even to their rearmost carriage in the convoy, making muffled laughter erupt from the enclosed, wooden cabin beneath them. Gilgamesh shook his head gently, then finally looked past Ozymandias. His eyes narrowed ever so slightly in confusion, making the rider smirk as he joined his gaze towards the obvious distraction. It was hard for the gigantic wall in the distance not to be a focal point among the vast plains and high mountain ranges, but it was only now he noticed.
"Quite the fortification, no? You, the last royalty of the era, ordered its construction, or so Merlin had explained while you rested. A grand wall that holds back the tide of monsters from what remains of Babylonia… the minions of the active goddess who seeks Uruk's demise."
"Then my people built that with my guidance...?"
"In only a few months' time. Quite the feat, even compared to the wondrous Pyramids of my own kingdom, I will admit," Ozymandias proclaimed as they kept their eyes focused upon the walls. Even from the distance, a servant could see the many figures atop the wall patrolling carefully. "Your subjects, and any remainder who fled from their cities to your rule, have held out against innumerable magical beasts. Praise must be given."
Though the talk interested him, Gilgamesh still felt the lingering disappointment and anger returning. His first meeting with his friend had been a farce, engineered by that imposter who acted as some sort of mediator for an alliance of goddesses. It was they who forced these extreme measures to be taken, and the likely losses incurred by months of fighting. It boiled his blood, and Ozymandias took note of his deteriorating attitude.
Surprisingly, the Pharaoh merely nodded with a composed expression once more. "If you feel the need to know any more before we reach Uruk, I can answer. Until then, I shall leave my rival alone. It appears you'd rather stay in quiet contemplation for the remainder of our travel."
Gilgamesh looked to Ozymandias, but he had already turned back to face the wall. It seems the rider was far more thoughtful and observant than he gave credit. At the very least, Gilgamesh could now sort his troubled thoughts to refocus what needed to be done. It wasn't long until he would learn properly of the situation that threatened his kingdom. The answers were only a few dozen kilometers away if the current farm was any indication.
For the sake of any remaining mood, Gilgamesh merely hoped he would like what he saw and heard.
:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖЄ ( -VI- ) ЭЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:
Iskandar admired the sandstone-colored brick of Uruk's walls as they stood proudly to contrast the flat plains. Though the massive wall loomed close to the north, it did nothing to detract from the majesty of the ancient city; If anything, the wall represented defiance that held against the storm. As the small convoy approached the Northern gate, Gilgamesh stood in the chariot beside him, gathering instant attention from anyone nearby.
Soldiers, farmers, and tradesman alike were not only shocked at the appearance of the war chariot, helmed by the massive, muscular rider, but the presence of their king. Many stood nearby, even if concerned over the subdued trot of the divine bulls as they pulled the chariot forward; There was only so much their lightning steps could be suppressed. Iskandar watched Gilgamesh calmly gaze over his subjects, causing every individual spotted to gently bow their head in respect. It was delightful for a ruler to be among his people again.
Still, the rider silently noticed the hints of discomfort and uncertainty in the eyes of many, as did his retainer beside him in the spacious coach.
Iskandar chuckled anyway, and offered a quiet reason. "It appears my Children of Zeus are making them nervous."
"Perhaps…" Gilgamesh noted as he gazed upon a small cart with a tradesman. The worker noticeably flinched before bowing. By Gilgamesh's growing frown, he was noticing too, and it was yet another sign that didn't sit well since Gilgamesh was known as a tyrant.
As they came up to the large gate, the soldiers standing guard saluted. Padded leather armor covered their torso and flanked their legs, but left the arms bare. A refined yet simplistic spear was close by their side, matching a sheathed sword of similar design. These helmed warriors made up the mainstay of Uruk's military, and each one was brave beyond measure. As a military legend, Iskandar could tell their discipline and dedication to Gilgamesh at first glance, and to his surprise, it was equal to the gaze given by his own men for himself… but…
"Iskandar, stop the Gordius Wheel. I wish to greet them."
Without answering, Iskandar abided. The chariot came to a halt at the gate. With a small frown, Iskandar noted the soldiers, though respectful, also held that hint of uncertainty in their eyes. "King Gilgamesh! Siduri did not alert us that you have left the Palace!"
Perhaps they were just worried for his well-being, but it didn't seem likely. It didn't seem to bother Gilgamesh as he answered. "It is complicated, but pay it no heed. Just continue to do your duty and guard the kingdom, my brave warriors."
"Of course, your majesty! For the glory of Uruk, we will defend what remains of mankind!"
Gilgamesh nodded in approval, though his attention turned to the military cart that was being driven outside. As the contents in the rear came into view, Iskandar watched his mood plummet. The proud smile had been replaced with incredulous fury, and the accompanying soldiers noticed this. Iskandar quietly observed in curiosity, as did Lord El-Melloi II, as the military cart, and the ones behind it, came to an immediate halt as Gilgamesh jumped out of the chariot. The poor soldier closest to Gilgamesh looked around in concern as the king approached with an inferno in his eyes.
"You! Explain yourself! What are you doing with my treasured weapons!?" Gilgamesh yelled, silencing the surrounding area. The warrior was now quivering in mounting anxiety as the King of Heroes crossed his arms. "It is punishable by death to take from my treasury!"
There was no arguing that fact, and no hiding the evidence. The wooden cart was filled with golden weapons that would no doubt be stored in the archer's Gate of Babylon. Iskandar and his retainer stared carefully at the contents before gazing back at Gilgamesh. By the sounds of wooden creaks and footsteps, most of the Chaldean force was disembarking to potentially stop the King of Heroes from doing something rash.
One individual approached Gilgamesh quickly as the soldier finally spoke. "Y-Your majesty! We're bringing them to reload the cannons!"
Gilgamesh's temper flared. "You mean to fire my personal collection from weapons? To waste them so haphazardly!?"
"That is correct, Gilgamesh, and the very reason Uruk still stands amid the tide." Gilgamesh, now infuriated, turned to glare at Merlin as he stopped nearby with a small smile. The expression only served to anger him further, but the caster raised his hand. "Now, now, Gilgamesh… There's no need to get angry at your brave warriors for following your direct orders, is there?"
"My direct…" Gilgamesh began, but quickly trailed off when he visibly realized what Merlin was inferring. The soldier, uncertain what was happening, watched in confusion as the King of Heroes stared incredulously at the caster. "You dare to infer that I would…"
Iskandar was now more than intrigued. Gilgamesh, the King of Heroes, would never share his treasures with anyone so willingly. It took the rider an entire, vicious grail war to even earn respect as an adversary. Months of occasional meetings and conversations, and he still wouldn't lend one of his men within his reality marble a single treasured weapon. Yet here the King of Uruk was allowing the weapons to be so casually tossed by his men? His intrigue bloomed like a spring field.
"Given the world's situation, you would… and you have. If there is anyone to be angry at in this instance, it is your living self," Merlin declared firmly. Merlin's smile only increased as Gilgamesh's fists quickly curled. "Now then… how about we go ask the King of Uruk directly?"
:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖЄ ( -VII- ) ЭЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:
Entering the palace had been simple with Merlin and the King of Heroes present. Even getting to the throne room was but a mere walk, though Ishtar had been very vocal about having to hide herself in spiritual form from the people. After walking down several large, torch-lit hallways, they arrived at the central chamber without any obstacles. Soldiers had been more than welcoming to Merlin, but even more for the presence of their servant king; It was accompanied by mild confusion.
Even the Royal Guard positioned at the ornate pylons supporting the chamber's ceiling occasionally gave curious looks to Gilgamesh, but he paid them no heed. There was no thought given to the familiar murals on the walls depicting mythical beasts either. Within the sunlit chamber, his eyes, along with the rest of the Chaldean teams' attention, rested across the room at mirror image of himself.
The King of Uruk sat on a tall but simply designed throne that matched the brick of the surrounding structure. As the only furniture in the large room, it stood out majestically with the help of the seated king. The wall behind it was gone to form a large window into the royal gardens behind. He was surrounded by countless messengers at flanks of the raised throne's stairs, lined up perfectly as he responded loudly to the tablet reports they gave.
"How many times do I have to tell you to always use the most recently obtained intelligence when writing battle reports? Be hasty with your updates! Do you think the enemy will stop if you are busy?"
The messenger stuttered, but Gilgamesh did not feel bad for him. He merely listened to the quiet whispers of the Chaldean teams behind him, careful to pick up any sort of criticism; To his delight, there had yet to be any. Though Gudao and Gabrielle remained quiet at his and Merlin's sides, with a quick glance, he could tell they were surprised. While he wanted to speak up angrily, he would not cause chaos to an orderly precedent he set in his early adulthood. Gilgamesh only waited silently and appreciated their astonishment as he eyed his living self.
"Is this the astrology report? …Not bad… It's largely similar to what I have seen, though this detail on the harvest still lacks clarity. A medal for you, messenger, but no time for rest. Bring me more reports!"
King Gilgamesh, the true Ruler of Uruk, passed the clay tablet back to the messenger so she could swiftly follow his order. His bare chest was displayed in full thanks to the very short, navy-blue vest with red and gold trim. It matched his regal pants that were equally adorned with golden jewelry. Only his right hand held a familiar golden gauntlet, and it clinked lightly as he took the next tablet. The unusual headpiece, which resembled a turban sporting blue-accented adornments, sat firmly on his head with an accompanying veil that cover his upper back.
Most notably, his red eyes flashed not with pride, but more regal diligence as he gave back the currently held tablet. "This report reminds me… I heard Captain Tabard's daughter just gave birth recently. Send a priestess with my regards, and bring some nutritious fruits. Also, recall him from the northern frontlines with three days rest. Seeing his grandson would surely bolster his fighting spirit."
"Right away, your majesty! You are far too kind!"
"I only do what I see fit. Now, do not tarry! I need more reports!" The King of Uruk declared loudly, as he passed yet another obvious glance towards the waiting Chaldeans. It lingered ever so slightly on his armored self, as well as the spot where a spiritual Ishtar remained hidden.
The Chaldeans continued to whisper quietly behind Gilgamesh, but he did not turn to look. His mirror image was likely also listening to the surprised praise he was quietly receiving. Helena and Nitocris dared to discuss how much more mature and respectable he appeared, but he let it slide as an indirect compliment. Karna quietly confirmed for Arturia, Beowulf, and Brynhildr that this king was not putting on an act, and Gilgamesh was content that the powerful lancer's usual blunt observations favored him. By all accounts, their previously held opinions of him were being shaken.
"Your majesty…" Asked the woman directly to the left of his throne. King Gil turned his attention to the green-robed woman at his side. "Do you wish to talk with the foreigners Merlin has brought?"
Even from where Gilgamesh stood, he recognized Siduri, his secretary, easily. The beautiful brunette wore a white hood that cascaded down her back. It was accompanied by a translucent, dark veil that covered her lower face, but added that hint of allure and majesty. Her green robes, which kept one arm unveiled but another bare, were accented with gold and spoke of her former position among the religious sect. With one, white-clothed hand clutching a tablet to her chest, she eyed King Gil without flinching under his strong gaze.
She turned her attention to the Chaldeans, as did the King of Uruk. Quietly, the seated man took another tablet, but kept his eyes firmly placed on the group ahead. The soldiers waited quietly, uncertain of what their ruler was thinking. The whispers fell silent as King Gil quietly glanced over the current tablet. Slowly, his eyes returned to the group of Chaldeans before he handed the tablet back to red-clad messenger. "Couriers! You may take a small break. When fifteen minutes are up, we shall begin again."
As the messengers quickly bowed to the king's order, he quietly stood. With pride and regal grace defined in every one of his steps, King Gil strode forward. His footsteps echoed through the silent chamber as he descended the small stairs that raised his throne. Upon reaching level ground with the Chaldeans, he took a few more strides while appraising them. After several quiet sweeps of his eyes, he huffed and came to a halt.
"I will admit, Chaldean Masters… I expected my first impression to be abysmal. You defied my expectation, and that is good. To arrive with such a powerful force speaks volumes of how seriously you take your task, though there is still much for you to prove..."
"Yes! Yes! I knew this would turn out differently!" Merlin exclaimed proudly as he raised his staff happily into the air. Fou's ears twitched as it sat on Mashu's shoulder. "To think you would not even dismiss their arrival so easily! That you're not even upset or irritated! This is-"
"Be quiet, Merlin," King Gil demanded with an irritated glare. He shook his head. "Of course I am irritated, and not only because you could not find the lost Tablet of Heaven for the second time I tasked you with retrieving it!"
Merlin actually had the gall to roll his eyes and chuckle. "Well you see, oh wise Sage King of Uruk… My task would be easier if you just remembered where you-"
"Silence!" King Gil bellowed.
With a hopeful glint, he turned towards Arturia for support, but she merely gave him an incredulous look back. He sighed. "As you wish…"
"Foolish magicians aside…" the living ruler began as he turned his eyes back to Gudao, who held firm under the scrutinizing glance. "It appears I don't have to whip the foreigners for taking this singularity lightly. This is a respectable showing coming from the ones who defeated the Six Singularities before. Yes… I am fairly content with who the Messengers of Heaven are. I could certainly find use for you in some form."
Gabrielle turned with a shocked expression towards Gudao and quickly leaned in to whisper. Scathach and Mashu tried to quietly stop her, but the excitement got the better of the female master. "Gudao! Gilgamesh praised us!"
"Do not let that get to your heads! Not all was perfect!" King Gil declared, making Gabrielle flinch as Lord El-Melloi II shook his head lightly. As the King or Uruk crossed his arms, his glare turned towards the golden-clad archer. "For one… though you managed the feat of summoning myself, you did so in such a pitiful disposition."
If the room could get any quieter, or colder, it managed to do so. Gilgamesh unfolded his arms and dropped his fists to his sides to glare at his living self. "…Pitiful?"
"Do not make I, the King, repeat myself!" The glares were matched for intensity, but still the living ruler pressed his point. "I've foreseen this disappointing possibility even before reading the gate report… To think that my more arrogant self would dare show his face. You are not what Uruk requires in its time of need!"
"How dare you imply that my kingdom does not require my aid!" Gilgamesh roared back as he started advancing forward. "My people need me desperately if you've even seen fit as to squander my precious collection! You dare waste the weapons of the treasury!?"
"They were not wasted! For the sake of the kingdom, I accepted their loss as a necessary sacrifice!"
The Chaldeans turned to each other in confusion, but it was Gudao who stepped forward to attempt to intervene. "Gilga-"
"Stay out of this, Gudao!" Both kings yelled in tandem, causing the male master to freeze in his spot. To his credit, he only nodded and took a polite step back.
"Though Chaldea still needs to prove itself to me further, even with its adequate showing, you must do far more!" the King of Uruk spat as the Chaldean counterpart stopped in the center of the room. "You have already shaken the confidence of my people with your visage! You are doing more harm than you accuse me of!"
The King of Heroes scoffed in reply. "As if I intended to sow discord in my own kingdom..."
"No, apparently you wouldn't be able to see the damage you could do…" the living ruler stated as he turned around to walk back to the throne. "It appears your arrogance has blinded you in more ways than one… An immature Gilgamesh is not worth my time... Get out of my throne room, faker!"
"You insolent…!" Gilgamesh began, but his eight portals would finish his declaration. Gabrielle gasped as several Chaldean servants got ready to intervene, but there was no need. Merlin merely held his hand up to halt them as the situation unfolded.
Siduri shrieked in horror, but her worry for her king was unnecessary. King Gil only sighed in irritation. "I predicted as much…"
In an instant, the King of Uruk opened an equal number of his own gates without looking. As the swords emerged from Gilgamesh's armory, they were immediately destroyed and the portals dispelled in flashes of prana-infused lightning bolts. They came from the several staves that had emerged from King Gil's own armory, causing Gilgamesh to stare at them in surprise. Even the Chaldeans looked at the unusually summoned weapons as the King of Uruk turned around once more.
His glare could have thawed an ice age. "You foolish, young mockery of myself! You intend to wreck my throne room and waste my time further!? Uruk is in constant danger, yet you dare waste the treasures from the Gate of Babylon to prove a point!? You hypocrite! Your immaturity knows no bounds!"
Gilgamesh growled back, but said nothing; He couldn't. Without question, he knew his living self was right. In his outrage and arrogance, he turned to force to send his message across and nearly sullied the throne room. It was an impulsive maneuver, and one he had relied upon constantly to get his point across. To try it against himself not only proved futile, but served as an example of the King of Uruk's point. If anything, he just embarrassed himself in front of the other Chaldean servants, and that annoyed him just as greatly.
"Silent… Good. You've learned a lesson," King Gil growled before turning once more to Gudao and Gabrielle. "Chaldean Masters… Though you've made a decent first impression, you still have much to accomplish if you wish me to take Chaldea seriously."
Roman's blue-tinted hologram quickly appeared from Gabrielle's intercom. Ana stared at it curiously from Merlin's side. "W-Wait! Why do we need to prove ourselves further? With every second wasted, the grail is in danger of being-"
"You mean… this grail, Chaldean?" King Gil asked as a portal opened above his outstretched hand. True to his word, a golden chalice fell gently into his outstretched gauntlet, causing only two servants to gasp in surprise. The King of Uruk chuckled. "Judging by your reaction, the rest of you aren't surprised this wish granting device is rightfully in the King's possession."
"I suppose I am to praise for that!" Ozymandias chuckled heartily, causing Iskandar and Beowulf to join him. Though neutral, he did keep a grail from enemy hands during the Sixth Singularity.
"To be fair, King Gilgamesh, if the grail were currently in their hands, the singularity would have already been decided. The fact Uruk still stands, proves only you could be in possession of its power, and the reason you are assailed by waves of monsters," Gudao explained carefully. "I hope I was not too assumptive, King Gilgamesh."
An eyebrow rose steadily for the King of Uruk. The grail disappeared back into a portal as he spoke. "How perceptive and respectful. You surprise me further, Gudao… Yes. It is merely another piece of my collection. I have no need to use it, but it is part of what Chaldea seeks."
"That's another thing! How much did Merlin tell you about us yet you still don't wish for our immediate aid!?" Roman questioned, making Da Vinci quickly appear as she stepped to his side to pinch him. He squirmed. "Da Vinci! We have a situation to sort out!"
"Merlin told me nothing before I summoned him. I have accomplished all of the greatest deeds, so I know the truth behind all things. Without my eyes you cannot see things for what they are, and yes, I already know that my destiny is about to end…" King Gil admitted, causing a round of whispers to erupt within the servants. Surprisingly, the present soldiers and Siduri did not react to the revelation for some reason.
Gilgamesh scoffed. "You chastise me for my arrogance, yet where is any of your confidence? Have you grown weak enough to fall at the hands of the goddesses?"
"Many things are unavoidable, though I evade many more by acting from within my palace," the King of Uruk answered back flatly. They glared once more at each other, but the living ruler merely turned his attention back to the holograms. "It is a matter of pride, Chaldean, that Uruk be defended by its people."
"Then that shouldn't be a problem if me and that moronic king are among the Chaldeans!" Ishtar declared as she broke her order and appeared in a cloud of golden dust. Immediately, the surrounding soldiers began nervously taking steps away from the newly appeared goddess, but they quickly halted their retreat upon hearing their king laughing. Ishtar growled at the hysterical man. "What's so funny, Gilgamesh!?"
"To think the Chaldeans could rope a Mesopotamian goddess into their ranks so early! My... how you've fallen, Ishtar! To think this notable presence was you!" King Gil clutched at his stomach as he laughed heartily, making Ishtar even more furious. "Siduri! Note this event on the tablet!"
"As you wish, your majesty!" the secretary nodded as she pulled out a chisel and stared at the clutched, clay piece. She quickly began inscribing while speaking quietly as she worked. "The great king, the magnificent king, whose abs convulsed in excruciating pain…"
The goddess fumed. "What do you mean rope!? I answered the summoning to Chaldea of my own free will! It was my decision!"
"…Summoned?" King Gil quickly sobered up, though he raised an eyebrow in curiosity. "Summoned… I see… Then you are not the unruly one who flies around wreaking havoc among the farmlands. But are you just as childish and temperamental, foolish goddess?"
Before Ishtar could berate him, a messenger quickly bolted into the room and snapped to attention at the side of the Chaldean formation. "Your Majesty! I apologize for interrupting during our break, but I have an urgent message!"
"It can wait, courier. Before us is the rarest path I did not calculate for the Chaldeans…" King Gil openly admitted as he stared at Ishtar.
Siduri bowed gently beside her king and smiled to Ishtar. "Goddess Ishtar, Protector Deity of Uruk… We are honored by your presence."
Ishtar's eyes shined with glee. "Oh! How appropriate! I love when those I'm willing to protect pay proper tribute!"
"Yes… perhaps the Chaldean-tamed goddess will actually guard Uruk for once," the King of Uruk noted, making Siduri look at him with pleading eyes. Ishtar's glare reignited. "Your present self has done a fine job of making a mess of the kingdom… as usual… Perhaps you've actually wizened up from your ignorant state thanks to your time among the other servants?"
The messenger looked very nervous as he shifted on his feet. "Your majesty! I do not mean to interrupt but-!"
"Be patient, courier. I am musing over the state of a usually volatile imbecile."
As Ishtar growled, with Arthur and Arturia attempting to calm her, Siduri implored openly with her king, "Your highness! Please! We must respect our patron goddess! What would the priestesses think of your mean-spirited comments?"
"Do not play ignorant, Siduri, it does not suit you," the living ruler warned as he glanced lightly at her. "Ishtar creates what should not be created… The hordes of locusts. The sandstorms. Her petty, childish temper! You throw all of those things together, and only that foolish imbecile can accomplish tha-!"
A wall of the throne room exploded, sending dust and debris flying into the room. The bright sunlight shot through the new opening as soldiers closest to the breach took new positions. The Chaldean servants quickly summoned their weapons while Helena, El-Melloi, and Nitocris held firm with charged spells at the ready. As the dust cleared, the silhouette of a furious goddess formed within the dust cloud. The other Ishtar grew in clarity as she glared venomously at the King of Uruk, far livider than even Chaldea's respective archer.
"What did you say about me!?"
"Nothing good. At all," The Chaldean Ishtar answered with a growl, though it made her counterpart stare towards her in sudden shock.
That anger was now redirected. "Y-You! What the hell are you doing here!? And all those other people!? You were supposed to go off and get killed!"
"As if any of these little beasts could manage that!" she quickly defended with hands on her hips.
"Maybe they could have for such a weak version of myself!"
The Chaldean goddess fumed. "What was that!?"
Gilgamesh growled, but not as loudly as his counterpart groaned into his gauntlet-covered hand. "As if dealing with one wasn't difficult enough…"
The faint sounds of scratching made the living ruler lower his hand slightly. "The Sage King, the Glorious King, whose head threatens to rupture by quakes…"
"Siduri! I did not tell you to record this!"
As the two Ishtars now argued in the air above the group, Gilgamesh glared at his living counterpart. The King of Uruk paid him no heed as he quietly reassured Siduri while she apologized profusely to him. It was only his first meeting with his living self, and he was uncertain why he had believed it would go smoothly. This man was certainly him, yet he was different in many ways. It was this man that Merlin stated he would receive the promised answers, but at apparent difficulty.
It was only late afternoon of the first day, and Gilgamesh was already displeased with nearly everything.