"I wished this happened in the temple instead…"
"The priestesses would have been even more infuriated with you, your majesty," Siduri offered with a sympathetic smile. He rolled his eyes.
King Gil continued to grumble as his hands swept across the tablet he held. Golden cuneiform symbols raced around him in intricate circles, activating spells of his choosing using only a simple gesture. Damaged columns pieced themselves together. Craters in the floor quickly filled themselves in and were covered, resembling their appearance only an hour previously. Though he was far more efficient, the soldiers and messengers did their best to assist where they could.
Their little skirmish with an enraged Ishtar had come to a swift end thanks to the Chaldeans. He knew they were worthy allies, and they more than proved it by helping send off the goddess with minimal collateral damage. It was merely a matter of pride that he could not accept their aid immediately. Uruk faced its greatest crisis to date, and it was his people who held on for this long waiting for the promised saviors to arrive.
Now they have, but he needed to know their dedication and willingness rather than beg for assistance; He did not lie to them. For the pride of himself and his people, Uruk would continue this fight. By his own hands, he had summoned heroic spirits to assist in the delaying efforts, and they did not have any origins in Uruk. It was only a matter of accepting Chaldea when he could personally deem them worthy allies. They had only just arrived, and though their hearts were in the fight, they were not in their fight.
It was one thing to fight for humanity, and another to fight for something you truly came to love; King Gil was unaware how well they understood this.
Thus, his hidden agenda for his future allies was straightforward. Starting tomorrow, they would help with the most mundane of tasks around Uruk since they did not urgently require their aid to hold the Northern Wall. In doing so, they would get to know the people of his kingdom and help raise their spirits; If his guesses from the other singularities were true, they would do well to earn that trust and respect. With his kingdom believing in them, and the Chaldeans having grown closer in return, they would be ready to assist with genuine, full dedication.
This was something he hoped his counterpart would be aware of, but alas… "Siduri… Did that other Gilgamesh leave with the Chaldeans?"
"Yes, your majesty. From what I overheard, he's taking a few servants on a tour of… his kingdom to ease his frustrations."
The King of Uruk narrowed his eyes. "I hope he does not cause further grievances, but it is to be expected if I was summoned in that state…"
"The people are nervous about him… He resembles and acts-"
"Like I once did before…" the living ruler began before he trailed off. Siduri fell silent and slowly nodded as she stared upon her king's suddenly distant eyes. He sighed and shook his head. "…Once the repairs are done, we return to work. I want every delayed report immediately. The kingdom cannot slow to a crawl if we are to see the dawn ahead."
"Yes, your majesty!"
:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:
Chapter II: Unwanted Answers
:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:
Gudao, with a tablet map in hand, was leading the group towards the Embassy thanks to Siduri's directions. Nitocris and Mashu stood at his side, helping him interpret it correctly since it was not a measured or scaled piece. The rest of the group filed behind them, save for three missing servants; Gilgamesh ensured Gudao he would return the two riders after he led his own personal tour.
Fou, like many of the servants, had its head swiveling from side to side to gaze at the many sights of the Bazaar. Vibrant music, colorful tent fabric, and various clay wares filled every inch of their vision. Beowulf found himself having to grab Nightingale on several occasions to peel her away from sales practices she deemed unsanitary or potentially hazardous. They had also nearly lost Helena when she spotted a stand peddling unique tablets that told of Urukian spells. There was also little Ana that Gabrielle was chaperoning as she practically raced to food stalls.
Though many were enjoying the downtime, none were doing more so than Ishtar.
For the many curious looks they gave, they received just as many in turn. Arthur in particular was often ogled by various females, only for Arturia to get as many envious and jealous stares; Ishtar made a mental note to tease the adopted siblings about it later. Any look passed to the goddess was equal parts concern and admiration, and she had that incredibly loud announcement from the King of Uruk to thank for that. It was nice to be visible among the people and not have terrified stares tossed her way.
Still, they kept their respectable distance, which made her wish for more as she continued her quiet scan for gems. As she began floating towards the next stand, she saw Brynhildr and Karna had slowed down to glance at her. She quirked her head in curiosity as Karna asked, "Ishtar. May we talk?"
With a playful smile, and a thoughtful finger to her lips, the she responded. "The Goddess of Love shall permit it. You may speak."
Brynhildr chuckled at Ishtar's response as they began walking beside her. "It's about the King of Uruk. King Gilgamesh."
"He is different, but it is no facade," Karna replied evenly. He briefly eyed Helena as Lord El-Melloi II and Scathach attempted to drag her away from yet another tablet stall; The struggle could still go either way. "Our Gilgamesh is also the honest truth. Neither are lying, and it confuses me. They are both so very different. Do a few years make that much of a difference to him?"
"It's aggravating to admit, but even I am surprised by this Gilgamesh," Ishtar revealed, causing the lancers' eyes to snap to her in astonishment. She simply sighed and continued glancing at the stalls. There was an occasional smile sent to star-struck citizens. "He was rather fair in his later years, but I've never seen him so directly involved with everything... Although, I haven't seen Uruk in such peril before."
"Even when you loosed the Bull of Heaven?" Karna asked nonchalantly, making Brynhildr sigh.
Ishtar pouted and glared at the male lancer. "I do feel guilty about that, you know! That and… what I demanded as punishment…"
Ishtar turned her gaze to the sky with a solemn expression. "I've never seen a man so broken than the moment Enkidu was taken from him… Though I cared not back then, I would never bring that upon a person again... even that arrogant, selfish king… but... well, I guess it did open his eyes in the years after..."
"Then Enkidu and the journey made all the difference to him, as only love in its many forms can," Brynhildr added softly. "…but never to this extent, you say."
"No… This Gilgamesh is showing a direct consideration for humanity I've never before thought possible. He often kept himself at a distance, guiding humanity to a standard he saw fit to rule, but not showing attachment to them or us gods. He only acted how he saw fit instead."
"…and wound up becoming the one who broke humanity free from the control of the gods," Karna added, making Ishtar nod in agreement. "I am curious of what he had become here."
"It's still too early to tell, but it was quite the first impression" Brynhildr noted as she spied a group of children running towards them. "Our stay should be much easier if the King of Heroes is this accommodating as a living being… Far more than ours in his current state."
"But there may be a chance for him yet…" Ishtar whispered to herself, though the lancers easily heard it over the excited chatter of the children. Slowly, the trio stopped so Ishtar could float before the kids. They stared in awe at the goddess while one kept her hands hidden behind her back. There was a mixture of worry and hope in their eyes, and she happily decided to put them at ease with a small smile. "Hello, young ones! Why have you approached the Goddess Ishtar?"
"U-Um, Ishtar…" the little girl began. In an instant, her hands were before her to reveal a wreath of flowers and a hopeful smile. "We- um-! We made you a gift! We hope you like it! We can't afford anything expensive so we thought you might like flowers…"
The little girl had trailed off in worry, but it evaporated instantly as the goddess' giggles sang over the Bazaar's ambiance. With newly attracted attention, the curious onlookers watched as Ishtar gently plucked the wreath from the child's hands and put it on her head. Arturia and Arthur had paused to smile at her as she adjusted the gift to sit perfectly around her tiara.
"You thought correctly, little one. Your goddess appreciates the tribute," Ishtar smiled as the children quickly began cheering. In a complete break of all respect, they surrounded the floating goddess and hugged what they could of her form. Surprised at first, Ishtar quickly fell into another small fit of laughter as she gently patted the heads of the children. The act brought on cheers and spurred more onlookers to approach with gifts of their own.
Karna and Brynhildr simply stepped forward to ensure the goddess wouldn't get too swamped by praising Urukians.
Full of surprise and delight, the goddess looked around at all of the people she had troubled in the past. Uruk was filled with incredible citizens, and she felt more content than ever to be its Protector Goddess. Any lingering frustration for dealing with her counterpart slipped away into the back of her mind as the praise flooded her ears. Without a shadow of doubt, Ishtar was truly happy to be back in her times with a new sense of self.
Still, she had to admit the last, lingering notion. Even before she had merged with a capable host, it was possible, though not likely, for the once completely unruly and temperamental goddess to show a rare, kinder side. Though difficult to imagine, it is possible for Gilgamesh to embrace a more civil side as shown by the current king. Perhaps he wouldn't be a field of spring flowers, but the Chaldean one could become as mature and respectable as his older self; Expecting him to turn into the current Sage King was likely pushing it, and only a fleeting hope.
The thought vanished under the growing tide of worshippers who flocked to the friendly goddess.
:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖЄ ( -III- ) ЭЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:
There were many Gilgamesh recognized, yet more he didn't. Refugees who survived the beasts' invasion have found safe refuge in the last great bastion of humanity. Uruk, the shining gem of the Fertile Crescent under his rule, deserved no less of an accolade. For many to seek shelter within its grand walls and find home in one of the many brick structures pleased him. It did much to dampen the sour taste in his mouth after everything that's happened today.
Just being in his kingdom, which was sheltered well from the current crisis, was a breath of fresh air.
Proudly, he had been leading the two riders around the city to show them what the first and best civilization was. From the grand markets with various wares to the trade districts filled with the smell of working forges, most of his kingdom was roughly as he remembered. What little had changed was in its defense and the sheltering of the less fortunate; It was a circumstance of the singularity, but nothing more. As they walked down the brick-laden path near the Grand Temple, Gilgamesh felt relieved to be back.
"This temple's roof is flat, like your palace," Ozymandias noted as he turned his gaze from the temple. "I suppose not everyone can make pyramids."
"Ziggurats are grander in design," Gilgamesh shot back with a small glare. "You would do well to show respect while visiting the true King's civilization."
"I only made an observation," the rider replied cheekily, making Iskandar chuckle as he glanced at a passing group of children. They eyed him and his tall stature in awe, and gave less attention to Gilgamesh.
One bumped into the golden armored king by accident, forcing the archer to change the target of his glare. "You have touched the king without permission."
"S-Sorry, your m-majesty!" The trembling child whimpered and backed away to his friends. An elderly woman, with eyes stricken with fear, mouthed apologies as she led the group away. Despite the disturbance, two of the children still glanced with awe toward Iskandar, and the archer did not miss that. Gilgamesh growled, making Ozymandias laugh and seize further attention from others.
The tour had been going decent, had there not been that noticeable irritation. Both Iskandar and Ozymandias had been attracting a sizeable amount of positive attention, though he figured it was because of the announcement his living counterpart had made. Uruk was now well aware there were more servants in their midst. Since humans were curious creatures, it was only understandable they'd be gathering a little more attention than their king who resided within the walls. That wasn't the issue.
If it wasn't for the concerned, anxious, and cautious looks the archer was getting, he wouldn't have been irritated. That was the real grievance.
The King of Uruk's words echoed in his mind, and it secretly bothered him. He would never apologize for how he acted, but he never understood the full impact either. As he glanced from face to face, he could see the worry in their eyes that had been absent for anyone who gazed upon the living ruler. For him, there was only admiration and hope, which was what Gilgamesh should always receive from his subjects regardless of form; The people were meant to serve their king, and they should do so in a respectable manner.
Without a doubt, he remembered that his kingdom did in the past. Even if he forgot his childhood, fate had decided to return those forgotten moments. As mysteriously as the throne had fragmented those memories, it had recently returned those essences of his childish self. Though it angered him how he acted then, he could not deny the smiling, happy faces of his people as they interacted with him. There was nothing but true, unspoiled appreciation and approval in his youngest days.
As he gestured lightly and explained different structures and activities, he couldn't help but notice how happy his people were again. Their diligence and hopeful effort were only paused should they realize he gazed upon then, only to swiftly fill with concern; It was only for him. Had he really been that much of a terrible memory for them in his early adulthood? That question would have never bothered him, the first and greatest king, but now it did more than he liked.
"I wonder what we'll be eating for dinner at the Embassy... I hope your living self has some Urukian treats in store," Iskandar mused as his stomach growled loudly. Ozymandias laughed beside him and Gilgamesh shook his head lightly with a small smirk.
"You are guaranteed to taste true delicacies in time."
"That building he chose looked cramped… I may just have to eat on the roof with Waver," Iskandar replied with a small shrug. Instantly, his eyes widened and he began looking around much to the Sun King's curiosity. "Oho! That reminded me! I need to find him a mate around here! Gilgamesh! Do you know of any fine women who may like my retainer?"
Ozymandias laughed again, earning admiring glances from a pair of robed women. "It is only day one, Iskandar! The fruits of conquest can wait!"
"I will not permit you to simply take one of my subjects…" Gilgamesh warned as he shot a small glare behind him. They continued their stroll as he turned forward. "Everyone in my kingdom has a purpose and role they fulfill. To simply remove one is out of the question."
"Perhaps a refugee then…" the rider mused again with a smirk, making Ozymandias laugh even louder.
Gilgamesh huffed. "That is not something I care for… They may be residing within the walls of Uruk as guests, but my people will always come first in my eyes."
"What curious words from the King of Arrogance… You take great pride in your people, yet you do not take pride in who they are."
Gilgamesh came to a halt and glared towards the offender as he appeared from an alleyway. His two companions joined his gaze, though theirs were more of curiosity. The one who had spoken up was but a cloaked, old man. His grey beard stuck out of his hood, though the rest of his face was hidden in its shadow. One hand trembled as it grasped the cane he used to help himself walk forward, and his tattered cloth had seen better days. Only a stump remained of his left leg, visible only thanks to the pant leg that was tied shut at its end.
The King of Heroes' glare lightened only a bit, even as some onlooking Urukians turned their way in curiosity. "What did you say, old man? It is punishable to insult the king."
Despite the threat, the old man never looked, but moved to walk by them. "You are the King of Uruk, yet you are not."
"He speaks the truth," Ozymandias declared, earning him a quick growl and glare from Gilgamesh. "It appears all know you're a servant."
The archer huffed and turned back to the old man. He was slowly making his way around the group while giving respectable space, at least. "I do not recognize you, so you must be a refugee. I shall overlook your offense this time… for I have more important matters to attend to."
"You understand their plight, yet you do not understand them," the old man continued, as if he didn't hear. "You, who has the blood of both, have never truly tried to see below your perch. You saw fit to stand out of reach from heaven and earth… to deny the gods yet reprimand humanity."
Gilgamesh narrowed his eyes but turned away from the old man. As he struggled past them, Iskandar and Ozymandias glanced at the golden archer, but he paid them no heed. It was not unusual to have a delusional individual in the population. Since this elderly man was likely among that number, no amount of words would get through to him. It was best to simply ignore his plight and move on, for he could likely still take care of himself.
However, it was the accuracy of his ramblings that secretly unnerved Gilgamesh. They began to bother him for far longer than he liked to admit. His latest claim wasn't an unusual one to hear before his friend appeared, so at worst this man remembered those days well. Was he just being compared to his current, living self? Regardless if that were the case, something about this old man felt… off.
"Mankind is fleeting. Death comes to all, Gilgamesh... To you, it is what they leave behind that has meaning, but do you understand… not everything that remains is physical...?"
With a scowl, Gilgamesh turned once more. "Old man… What are you…?"
Iskandar and Ozymandias also looked upon recognition of the archer's confused face. The three of them fell into confusion, as the old man had suddenly disappeared. Only moments ago, the gentle clap of his cane against the ground was but a few meters away. With the gathering onlookers keeping a safe distance, it was impossible for him to quickly blend into a group; The elderly man had vanished without a trace.
Gilgamesh quickly brushed it off, though it remained a shadow in the back of his mind. "…We shall go. Sunset is approaching, and there's a bit more to see."
:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖЄ ( -IV- ) ЭЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:
As the sun approached the horizon, it brought an amber glow to the sky of their first evening.
The rest of the Chaldean Team had been getting settled within the so-called Embassy the King of Uruk had designated for foreign allies. Begrudgingly, he had to extend the allotted space to the vacant buildings of the block considering the number of people present; Siduri had been very vocal about treating them with respect. While some servants left to examine the adjacent accommodations, a few had stayed with the masters as Siduri introduced them to the others.
Finding another Ushiwakamaru, Benkei, and Leonidas had been a pleasant surprise, though it was coupled with the sad news of others. A defiant Ibaraki had fled after being summoned, and others such as Amakusa had fallen during the past few months. With less numbers, the remaining servants worked double shifts, as proven when they quickly departed for the wall after their introductions. Chaldea's arrival would most hopefully give them the future relief they needed.
It was likely another big reason Siduri was doing her best to ensure they felt comfortable and welcome within Uruk. Unfortunately for some, comfort was currently a fleeting word. "M-Merlin! Do something and repay the favor!"
With a sly smile, the Magus of Flowers refused to leave one of the many wooden tables. "But Ana… I don't have a favor to repay! We are even, no?"
Arturia and Arthur watched the scene, with their armor dispelled in relaxation, from their seats at Merlin's table. Mugs of water sat before them, which had been filled at the wooden bar of this former tavern. The stools remained empty, but the shelves were stocked with raw ingredients and drinks. Chandeliers hung from the ceiling to provide a warm, amber light to the room, coupled with a few banister torches that flanked the nearby staircase.
Though the earlier servants King Gil had summoned had dedicated rooms upstairs, the circumstances made them discard the original idea of using this large room as another sleeping space. All the rounded tables, stool, and benches would remain unmoved. As an unintended benefit, the Embassy's tavern, which smelled pleasantly of cut cedar, would remain a lounge to gather and relax; A perfect place to wind down after a day's events.
One in particular already felt at home as she kept the poor, tiny lancer cornered… though that was a stretch of a description. Ana had plenty of room to escape since the female master stood several meters away. Gabrielle only stared at the cloaked Ana with pure curiosity. "I'm not going to hurt you or anything! I'm just curious! Please, Ana? Can I see what you look like underneath? I feel like I've seen you before… but I bet you're really cute!"
"C-Cute!? N-No! Absolutely not! Stay back, human!" Ana half whimpered and half growled. They were well aware she had a curious dislike for humans, but that didn't stop the overly friendly Gabrielle from trying to make friends.
"Gabby-San…" Mashu began, keeping a sympathetic look on Ana. She gently rubbed Fou's back at a separate table. Siduri, also sitting with her and the male master, merely watched in curiosity. She did look tempted to pet the little familiar though.
Gudao sighed, but chuckled as he pet Fou's head. "Come on, Gabby. Leave the poor girl alone."
"Fine…" Gabrielle relented as she took a few steps away from Ana; She had been a few meters away to begin with. "Sorry, Ana…"
The lancer grumbled before quickly scampering off to another part of the building, likely to hide in her room. Gabrielle walked over to Gudao's table and sat down. She smiled happily at Siduri. "You're sure it's okay for you to be here? King Gilgamesh looked busy."
"I can assist him when necessary, but he had specifically ordered me to act as your liaison. Though his overworking habits worry me, my king will be fine."
"To think Gilgamesh would be so… diligent," Arturia quietly whispered to Arthur, making him nod. Merlin chuckled.
"He has taken his job very seriously as of late," the caster noted with a chuckle. "Reports flood in so he can personally ensure everything goes as planned… which brings up the real question, Secretary Siduri. What has the king assigned to Chaldea besides an arrival party?"
Without missing a beat, the secretary pulled out a tiny tablet packed with cuneiform. Upon seeing the density of the writing, Gabrielle took a quick gulp. "Uruk has fallen on hard times due to mounting casualties. Most of what is required of Chaldea has to do with helping the farmers, shopkeepers, and other citizens."
"Wait… Aren't those… chores and civil duties?" Mashu asked in surprise, making Fou's ears perk up. "We're not fighting?"
"As his majesty stated, Uruk holds firm, and the Northern Front is not threatened. Chaldea needs to prove itself to him before it may join the fight."
"What a strange way for us to prove ourselves…" Gudao noted curiously as he looked at the tablet. He couldn't read it, but it didn't stop him from staring. With a sigh and a smile, he shrugged. "It can't be helped. Should we begin in the morning? Do you have specific jobs?"
Mashu smiled upon seeing Siduri's relieved expression. "Thank you for understanding… I shall provide a brief overview before I begin preparing for your celebration. The merchants should be arriving soon with the materials, and I do not want your welcome party to be delayed."
:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖЄ ( -V- ) ЭЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:
Luxurious and spacious, the King's room within the Palace was everything he could have desired. The cloth on the centered bed was made of the finest red fabrics, contrasting the slightly golden bricks of the walls and ceiling. A few display shelves rested on one wall, flanked by the large doors to the king's wardrobe. The other held only the large doors that retreated back into the castle. Besides the many lush plants, a large floor-to-ceiling opening in the wall gave a stellar view over the Euphrates and allowed a further glimpse of nature.
This room would have been devoid of the natural aesthetics many years ago.
As the sun dipped ever closer to vanishing, it made the waters shimmer and sparkle like fireflies in the night. They reflected off of Gilgamesh's red eyes as he stood in the center of the large opening while they stared into the far, unseen distance. His expression was blank, though the slight furrow of his brow displayed the frustration within. Unlike the soothing waters of the Euphrates, his mind was coarse with scattered thoughts.
The rest of his personal tour had gone undisturbed, and the trio had parted ways. Though Ozymandias was miffed about the Embassy's accommodations, Iskandar had helped convince him to temporarily accept the circumstances; Gilgamesh would never rest there though, and he did not wish to partake in the party. The archer was finally home, and after an atrocious first day, he would like nothing more than to sleep in his own bed for nostalgia's sake… If the nagging thoughts allowed him to, that is.
Softly, the door creaked open, and he felt eyes upon his back. "I predicted you would retire here."
It didn't help he was also here. "This is my kingdom as well… I trust I can at least stay in my palace?"
"As if my words would have any sway over you. I know myself enough to know that I, the King, would not simply leave when commanded," his living self replied plainly before he started walking. It honestly surprised Gilgamesh the living ruler was being moderately accommodating after their argument. "Do as you wish, and even sleep in the bed… but do not get in my way. I am busy ensuring the safety and efficiency of Uruk."
"So be it," the archer scoffed.
Gilgamesh listened to the soft footsteps echo through the room before he turned to face his counterpart. The King of Uruk made no eye contact, but moved towards the display shelves on the opposite side of the room. One hand gripped the Tablet of The King at his side, while the other remained free as he strolled. Distant music echoed from the Bazaar, though its attempt to fill the rough silence failed.
King Gil stopped at the shelves and picked up a smaller tablet from one of the placeholders. It had rested beside a curious, clay box that was far more ordinary than the other jewels and treasures displayed. There was not even a lock present along its length, not any ornate decorations upon its flat surface. Only a single, cuneiform symbol rested on top, though Gilgamesh did not have the opportunity to inspect it previously. It was an oddity, but one of seeming importance by its position in the center.
The newly acquired tablet was placed in the same grip as the king's larger one, but the archer only continued to stare at the box.
As the servant tried to discern what that unfamiliar box was doing there, King Gil slowly reached out and placed his hand upon it. The cuneiform symbol was covered as he gently rested his hand on its cover. Red eyes of his living self turned distant for a brief moment, but Gilgamesh noticed. While the fleeting sunlight kissed the King of Uruk's skin in its final minutes, the archer connected the final dots. Even if the silence begged to be broken, Gilgamesh remained quiet as the living ruler's hand returned to his side.
What seemed like minutes passed before King Gil spoke softly, yet firmly. "Chaldea's Ishtar has informed me you've encountered… him."
Gilgamesh's eyes narrowed. "I have, yet you returned from the Underworld… from Ereshkigal."
"I buried him with my own hands…" the King of Uruk spoke before turning to his servant counterpart. "I'm certain you haven't forgotten that."
"It's not something I wish to remember."
"We can agree on that, at least," King Gil sighed as he walked towards the large opening, eyes now narrowed. "The reports were all distinct, and I didn't believe them at first. My friend… destroying city after city of his own volition… Many of the people do not believe it either. No one can believe it was him helping to bring the end times."
Gilgamesh scowled. "I saw his face… That was not an expression Enkidu would ever make. Whoever this impostor is, they're making a mockery of Enkidu! This should not be allowed to pass!"
"I agree… though they're not entirely an impostor," the King of Uruk admitted as he crossed his arms. He stood facing the setting sun, eyes shining with exhaustion and reluctance; It was a stark contrast from the confusion and building anger of his counterpart. "…I visited his grave. His body had vanished… From the description of his assaults and his looks, there's no doubt it's him in some capacity-"
"Do not dare voice such an outrageous claim!" Gilgamesh roared, though King Gil did not flinch or look. "You dare inform me, someone has revived Enkidu's body and manipulated his soul… his mind! Manipulated my friend… and you're content to just sit here reading reports!? His body and memory are being violated by undeserving mongrels and you do nothing about it!?"
"As if I have a choice in the matter!" King Gil shot back as his eyes looked ever slightly downward in fury. Gilgamesh's anger threatened to boil, but his curiosity held him in check. "I've sent servants I've summoned in search of him, but they were killed. Countless times I've found myself scrying for his whereabouts… I should have gone myself, as is proper of the King of Uruk and his friend, but then the city would fall… Uruk would be no more, and mankind would disappear because of my failure. The King of Uruk does not fail!"
"Yet you're failing Enkidu!" Gilgamesh spat back with a growl. "You don't seem to trust the kingdom to stand against all odds while you search. Do you not believe the people meet the standard I have steered them towards!? Did it not stand when I went for the herb of immortality?"
"You don't seem to recall correctly, for Uruk was in shambles when I re-emerged…" the living ruler scolded, quickly silencing Gilgamesh. "I trust my people. Uruk is strong! They've survived months waiting for Chaldea, but only with my assistance. They serve the king, and without the king they are nothing! I trust my people to fight bravely, but I'm not blind to the true danger of the enemy! Their threat is never-ending, and it pins me to this place-"
"Unbelievable… You can see your own death and are afraid of it?"
"I fear for the wrong death that spells the demise of all!" King Gil glared at his counterpart. "That arrogance of yours… As much as I loathe it, I'm jealous for it… You still believe you're capable of so much, only because you're blinded to what consequences are wrought!"
"You harp about me being blind, yet you are just as much! Though you act for the people of Uruk, why couldn't you have spared more for Enkidu!? Does he not matter just as much anymore!?"
"Fool! Do you dare believe I would have abandoned those cherished memories of my dear friend!?"
"Then why…" Gilgamesh scowled as he raised his hand slowly to point. Slowly, the man followed his servant counterpart's gesture to the wooden box that sat on the shelves. King Gil's eyes narrowed, though not as much as Gilgamesh's. "Why!? You don't wear it anymore, so I assume it rests in that box! The symbol of friendship with Enkidu! The cord you vowed never to take off!"
"Do not act like you did not do the same back then!" King Gil roared back as he turned to face the archer. It wrenched his insides, for he knew he was right. "I lost the right to ever see him again! I failed him! The gods took him because of my greed and arrogance when they should have taken me! With the kingdom assailed by the divines… the least I can do is act the way he believed I could! To shine with all the majesty he believed I, the King of Uruk, always had! Is that not also honoring Enkidu!? By protecting the kingdom and citizens he had come to love!?"
That was no lie. No matter what he decided, Enkidu always believed Gilgamesh would choose correctly in the end. It is that thought that solidified his decisions and pride, but also opened the door to let his friend's advice slip through. There had been many suggestions and gentle guidance, but he never paid it as much attention until he was gone. He had truly taken his time with Enkidu for granted, which was something he would never admit to the world. It was the only folly of his friendship, for he and his equal should have been immortal.
Yet, it was not to be…
His living self knew this as well without a doubt. What happened was a tragedy that should have never befallen him. Returned to the earth he was made of, his friend had been taken as retribution for their actions. It was a guilt he never truly rid himself of, and one he intended to repay upon reuniting with his friend.
Instead, Gilgamesh was standing before himself, arguing beliefs and priorities even he began to question. The animosity between them, due to age and perspectives, tore old wounds open alongside new lacerations. They could continue to argue, but where would it even lead them? They were both wrong, but they were both right. They couldn't understand each other as it were, but in this one fleeting argument, Gilgamesh realized his living self's predicament.
The King of Uruk who held and collected everything had hard, impossible decisions forced upon him…
…Suddenly he was no longer infallible, but just another human lost in the dark, helpless against the tethers of fate.
Gilgamesh crossed his arms and turned to face the sun, but he did not speak. King Gil's voice had fallen to a quiet murmur. "I would want nothing more than to honor Enkidu's body… but no matter what manner of search, he is nowhere to be found. It crushes the people to even think of the rumor… that his body is being desecrated in such a manner… but all Uruk can manage was to stave off the demise that befalls all of Babylonia…"
As the King of Uruk looked weaker than he ever should, Gilgamesh glanced at him. With slow steps, the living ruler walked towards the door silently, giving more than ample room for the archer to respond. He didn't- no, he couldn't. In those many glimpses of exhausted eyes he came to a disturbing conclusion that had not surfaced during their blinding argument.
Though his living self was also with flaws, he was clearly doing far more than Gilgamesh ever considered. Upon reaching adulthood, the archer had chosen the path to judge over the people and their worth. It had taken Enkidu to show him, once more, there could be other means, but without that guidance he had always decided his own, absolute path. What he witnessed was something different, yet the same.
Without a doubt, the King of Uruk was putting all his effort into his endeavor. He worked as hard for the people as they did for him, an act the archer had not considered even once after his own return from the underworld. Yes, he had performed his rule differently after the ordeal and appreciated his kingdom, but nowhere near as exhaustive as King Gil did. Humanity and Uruk hung in the balance, and he had been doing everything in his power to help the kingdom survive for Chaldea's arrival. The results were very evident and absolute.
Thanks to those hard efforts, they were happy and smiling in the same manner as his childhood rule. It was nothing short of a fantasy.
Gilgamesh huffed in annoyance, but did not dare voice his simultaneous growth of respect and repulsion. Thankfully, he didn't have to. "Arguing with you gives me a headache… Which is the last thing I need when administrating the kingdom. Do not tarnish the room in any manner."
Easily suppressing any reply, since he wished to voice none, Gilgamesh watched his counterpart open the door and walk out with tablets in hand. It shut with more force then necessary, likely to vent lingering frustrations before he returned to the throne room. The archer didn't think about it too long before resting his gaze on the wooden box once more. He quietly took in its sight with barely a slither of sunlight upon it.
For once, his thoughts not only rested upon the state of his friend or kingdom, but himself as well. It had only been a lingering thought in Chaldea, but his living self voiced that one doubt so openly. As he were in this very moment, did he have the right to see Enkidu again? True, it was this arrogance that brought them together for their days-long fight, but would he be pleased it remained? That he embodied it fully once more?
Gilgamesh couldn't tell anymore who was ravaging his mind the most: His childhood, the living ruler, or himself.
:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖЄ ( -VI- ) ЭЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:
The sun had gone down, but the growing twilight didn't gather Gudao's attention as he sat on the brick railing of the Embassy's roof. There was a stair access and a few scattered cedar tables with matching chairs just in case the main section had filled. It must have been a long time since it was so packed, and it brought a small frown to his face. As much as he wanted to ensure even less casualties occurred, upsetting the king and his people was not the right way to do it.
Downstairs, Siduri was likely still attempting to get Arthur and Brynhildr to stop assisting in food preparation. Many other servants were already partying with the available alcohol. Last he recalled, his best friend was also being overly nice to Ana at Merlin's recommendation. He would join them again in time, but for now, he needed a moment to think.
He pulled the notepad out of his uniform's jacket again to stare at it. There were dozens of jobs for them to accomplish, and all of them were mediocre at best. Very few entailed actual guarding, and it was only from a stray monster or two that had managed to find a route past the wall. It wasn't a matter of difficulty, but an issue of time. There were plenty of servants deployed that could assist, but he couldn't help but wish they could be more proactive.
There was also the matter of his servants' morale. It was something he was always attentive of, and many were in high spirits including Ishtar. The real worry was Gilgamesh, who would likely be more temperamental with everything he's had to put up with; Gudao had hoped Enkidu would be able to help, but fate had other strings to pull. Though the current gossip was to compare the two kings, the male master found himself worrying over the archer more.
He knew it was a meaningless gesture. Gilgamesh had a core that was impossible to penetrate since he kept everyone at a distance. He wanted to assist the King of Heroes, but there were currently too many restrictions and obstacles. At best, he could perhaps try to make small talk as the singularity progressed and offer an ear that would listen. That was likely a gamble, and one that might go the other direction with the prideful king.
He felt two familiar arms encircle his waist from behind to break his concerns. With a small smile, he leaned back slightly. "Are you okay, Senpai?"
"I'm fine, Mashu. Just overthinking and overworking as usual."
"Of course…" the shielder, with select armor parts dematerialized for comfort, smiled warmly as she released her embrace. Gudao swung his legs around to face her as Fou scurried up the demi-servant's back to reach its favorite shoulder. "I hope nothing terrible occurs while we're busy with these jobs."
"If it does, we're intervening without question. I'll bear the brunt of the king's anger afterwards," Gudao joked with a smirk. It slowly vanished as light footsteps echoed from the stairwell. "That's only if, though I'd be lying if I said I wasn't worried things can go wrong… ah, but no use in stressing. We haven't even set up the leyline connection for od conservation."
"Oh! But you have every right to feel worried, Gudao! It is only natural for one who places his utmost dedication into whatever his heart desires!"
Fou scowled as the trio turned to the newly appeared Merlin. He finished climbing the final steps and shot the little critter a dry look. In an instant, it was replaced with his usual smile as he approached the pair. "I hope I wasn't interrupting any romantic moment! Not that I mind watching~!"
Mashu blushed as Fou growled even louder at his joke attempt. Gudao smiled anyway. "Did you need something, Merlin?"
"Me? Oh, no! I don't make requests too often, mind you!" Fou growled louder, making Merlin groan. The couple laughed. "Be quiet, Cath… I didn't come to trick them or anything. I… only wanted to say thank you, Gudao. Sincerely, for everything you, Gabrielle, and Chaldea have done. I wish she was up here too, but I guess I'll just have to say it again later!"
Gudao turned to Mashu with a raised eyebrow, only to be met with the same perplexed look. He turned back to Merlin. "For the singularities again? I know you-"
"Not that, Gudao. The world is grateful for what you're all doing, but I didn't wish to speak of some subjects in front of Arturia," Merlin began as his smile turned a rare shade of genuine. It made Fou stop its growling to stare in amazement. "I wished to do this privately and in person..."
They remained quiet but followed him with their eyes as he faced the last hues of light in the distance. His hair blew gently as his smile remained bright. "You've done so much for Arturia… Her knights… Her… er, son-daughter. You've unknowingly brought her down a unique path and allowed her to overcome all the difficulties she previously held. To look at her now… with such a bright and smiling face… She has found everything her heart desired. I can't thank you enough for assisting with that."
Gudao smiled back at Merlin as he turned around. "Don't mention it, Merlin. I like seeing people happy. Gabby and I both… Well, who doesn't, actually?"
Merlin laughed. "So modest about the magic you create… If making smiles were magecraft, you and Chaldea have it mastered! Truly, you make Big Brother Merlin happy to have finally gotten to meet my number one celebrity!"
The male master chuckled at the two nicknames once more. They had talked a lot during that carriage ride, but it was mostly about Merlin and the Singularity. Though he remained trapped within the Garden of Avalon, he had managed to find a way to project himself into the past where he did not exist. Even if limited in abilities, he had helped the King of Uruk stall for time. All of his efforts had been rewarded with a reunion with Arturia, and his excitement and joy were unparalleled through the rest of the journey.
"Well... You're welcome, Merlin. I'm glad we finally got to meet you too… and that you're an ally of course!"
"Yes, yes! Finally allies!" Merlin exclaimed happily, making Mashu giggle as Fou grumbled on her shoulder. "And as proper allies, it is only right I aid appropriately!"
"Fou! Fou!"
Merlin groaned and shook his head. "No, you damned, deceptively cute beast! I'm not tricking them! I mean it! I'm going to seriously help them without any strings! It's the very least I can do for helping give King Arturia the happiness she always deserved!"
"But Merlin… Aren't you limited in your abilities here?" Mashu added. Fou looked very interested in the idea of putting him in danger.
"Ah, that is true… but I have my ways, no?" Merlin began, making Fou eye him skeptically as Gudao's expression fell inquisitive. "Do you recall our conversation with Da Vinci and Roman? The assistance I've provided for Chaldea's ever-growing mana consumption?"
How could he forget? That had been one of the biggest revelations during the entire trip, let alone the idea they'd be fighting multiple goddesses this time. Merlin, with secret communication to Da Vinci, had been steadily providing mana to Chaldea from the Garden of Avalon, equivalent to multiple additional Leylines. The inventor's recent insistence on upgrading the energy generators was mainly out of consideration for Merlin; They couldn't idly let him secretly supply Chaldea. It certainly did answer Roman's skepticism about the generators.
If Merlin was bringing this up again with a favor, then that could only mean one thing. Gudao's eyes widened. "You mean you can…!?"
"Perceptive as always, Master Gudao…" the Magus of Flowers smiled slyly. "How would you feel if I, the Great Merlin, opened the flow further? Oh! But wait! More precisely… How would you feel about deploying most of the Chaldean servants without any painful setback to you and Gabby? Wouldn't that be nice?"
Even Fou, whose mouth hung wider than the pacific ocean, was left speechless.
:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖЄ ( -VII- ) ЭЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:
After having spent far more time than he wished to admit brooding within his old room, Gilgamesh decided to stroll the hallways. He greeted each guard quickly as he meandered the torchlit halls, having no specific route or destination. With each step, he attempted to quell his own dissatisfaction and anger, but it only remained. Though his living self had admitted he was not flawless, there were other peculiarities revealed that bothered him greatly.
For one, it was no longer just an impostor running around in the likeness of Enkidu, but the very body of his friend. After his rage had boiled down, he had silently understood it was no longer as simple as destroying the adversary outright; To do so would disgrace Enkidu's corpse by his hands. No, he had to find the real culprit, which was likely one of the goddesses, and give the proper punishment to them. The problem was, Uruk was only capable of staying defensive, so there were no reports of any goddesses' location… just guesswork.
Gilgamesh huffed in frustration and finished ascending a set of steps. Carried by his own feet, he didn't realize the familiar view that awaited just down the small hallway. As the flame flickered on its torch, Gilgamesh's red eyes shimmered in slight reminiscence. His breath slowed, and he began to walk forward. With every step towards the familiar balcony, his golden armor clinked as the breezy, night air caressed his visible skin. Moments later, he stood on the balcony at the highest point of the palace, only a humble jump away from his true favorite spot.
Pushed by the urges of his recovered childhood memories, Gilgamesh relented and swiftly jumped onto the spot. Upon landing, he looked around at the simple bricks of the palace roof. His expression remained blank, but the wave of nostalgia and comfort washed over him. He found himself exhaling gently as he turned around to gaze upon his city. The lights had long been extinguished as the kingdom slept gently beneath the stars he gazed upon so many times.
He gazed up at the distant moon which resembled only a small slither of light. He found it curious it was only a bit different from when he gazed on the simulated version at Chaldea's artificial beach. The night before deployment, he had felt the urge to look and gazed upon the growing moon. To see it roughly the same here was an oddity and coincidence, but it did nothing to diminish the sense of tranquility he felt.
"It's wondrous." …That voice!
Gilgamesh spun around, only to catch a fleeting glimpse of familiar green-hair and a warm smile before it vanished. He blinked and scanned the vacant roof before him. With a groan, he shook his head and rubbed his temple with one hand. Between this and the carriage ride, his mind was definitely playing tricks with him. Was it another annoying circumstance of the memorial essence? That couldn't be… His childish self never encountered Enkidu, and it had only started after arriving in the singu-
"Oh! I didn't expect to find the Chaldean Gilgamesh here! The moon is in the other direction you know!"
With a growing headache, Gilgamesh turned with sharp eyes. His glare landed upon Merlin as the floating caster gently landed on the perch. The staff was nowhere in sight, but the irritating grin the magus always seemed to wear was ever present. The King of Heroes scoffed. "I'm in no mood for conversation, Magus of Flowers."
"As was often the case for the living one, but that never stopped me! Certainly not!" Merlin responded with a chuckle. Gilgamesh's eyes narrowed but the caster merely shook his head. "That said, I thought he would be here... I had a few questions to ask about the tablet."
Gilgamesh raised an eyebrow. "… He comes up here too?"
"Of course! Around this time or earlier as a small break from his endless work… Storing that knowledge to avoid him better, mayhaps?" There was only a narrowing of eyes as a response. Merlin only chuckled again, but turned away to face the moon. "He usually berates me for bothering him in his time of serene contemplation… just like you did. Though you two seem to despise each other already, you're the same person when all is said."
He growled in mounting frustration. "I told you I'm not in the mood for conversation, mongrel… Do you not listen?"
"Arturia always said I'm often terrible at that, yes! …but you're not much better, you know. Did you ever listen to the gods or your people?" Merlin asked as his tone slowly turned more serious. "Of course not. As one who purposefully isolated himself, you didn't, but that's not terrible. Your choice to act as a harsh storm of authority was, but the loneliness wasn't."
Despite his anger, Gilgamesh found himself listening. Before the memorial essence, he would have likely summoned a few portals to send the magus away with a proper warning. It was yet another frustration that he felt influenced to at least listen, like his younger self loved to do among his people. There was no avoiding it, though he began pondering if he should just leave if he couldn't find peace at his favorite perch.
The caster turned to him and gave a sympathetic smile. "I do find it quite amusing that you both stare upon the heavens where the gods lie… The very gods you respected but never listened to."
"I'm not their tool."
"No. You're not their keystone. You decided the path yourself, as you have always chosen to do so. You act for no one save yourself unless you deem it tolerable," Merlin practically declared, yet his voice was a calm breeze. Gilgamesh raised an eyebrow as the caster happily gestured to the moon. "It was the twelfth of the third month that you departed Chaldea for your home…"
The King of Heroes found himself staring at the moon as Merlin's soothing explanation sang over the warm, silent night. "The beginning of this journey… and the start of a new moon coincide! It could be a coincidence, or maybe not...!"
He scoffed. "What are you getting at, Magus of Flowers?"
"Maybe… Just maybe, King of Heroes, it also marks the beginning of something else."
Gilgamesh watched incredulously as Merlin walked towards the edge of the roof. "Ah, but I've overstayed my welcome before I even set foot here! I must be off to ask that question and fine tune some things for your masters!"
With a scowl, Gilgamesh watched as Merlin disappeared in a shower of blue dust; His chuckling still echoed in his ear. With his absence, his irritation waned, though he looked up and stared at the waxing crescent again. The sense of tranquility began to grow, but it did not alleviate any amount of concentration focused on Merlin's little speech. He had been made aware, like many of Chaldea, that he was quite the mischievous half-incubus… but he was still a wise and mystic individual at his core.
As he stared up at the slither of a moon, he decided to start the painstaking process of sorting his scattered thoughts.