"So… you're wondering why people like me so easily, but you only get one sided conversations?"

The bubbly rider tilted his head and folded his hands behind his green, cartoon-frog shirt. Ozymandias, wearing his usually vain style of unbuttoned, black dress shirt, and matching pants, looked genuinely confused. Ever since he saved him from Gilgamesh's little prank, they had forged an interesting friendship, even if the pink haired rider before him skipped all formal titles that the pharaoh desired. Astolfo genuinely treated him well much like Gudao did, which was another comforting reminder to a dear friend of his. He gave a small nod towards the blue jean wearing rider as they stood in the empty hallway.

"That's easy for me! It's how you act around people! You're like Gilgamesh!"

The Sun King scoffed, but laughed at the accusation. "We are nothing alike. I am above him and all, as a pharaoh should be."

"You see! That's what I mean, Ozymandias!" The pharaoh looked confused once more. "You're always talking like that! Self-centered and superior!"

He blinked. "But that is what I am. It is- why are you laughing? I demand you stop that."

"I'm sorry," Astolfo stifled his laughter, though barely. "You said you want people to like you like the pharaoh you are, right? But that attitude you always have pushes everyone away! No one owes you anything here… I mean, no one actually does… right? No one likes getting talked to like that, especially your current allies, and fellow heroic spirits!"

Ozymandias blinked and narrowed his eyebrows. "But that is who I am. Are you not the one who always tells me to be who I am and proud of it?"

Astolfo groaned. "That's what I mean, but that's not what I mean! If you want the other heroic spirits to like you, be nice to them like you are to me! You barely talked like you were above me once this whole conversation! Do that!"

It was an absurd idea for an even more outrageous notion. Acting cordial with Gudao and Astolfo was already pushing the limit for him, with a special exception being made for Nitocris due to her status as a fellow pharaoh. But to treat everyone else around here like they were his, dare he say, equal? Yes, he respected them as allies. But to talk to them like he was a regular person among basic colleagues? Astolfo and Gudao had at least earned friendship, and to some extent Gabrielle, but to try to be more considerate with the entire servant population?

For the King of Kings… Son of Ra, Ramesses, and Amun… the embodiment of the sun itself! To stoop as low as a commoner to converse among the masses of heroes was an atrocious thought. It was possible he wouldn't even be a pharaoh at that point, losing his own title to speak to others without their own. Sure, they were allies, but to go that far just to earn the love and respect he deserved was ludicrous. Astolfo, somehow sensing his internal struggle even with his common sense, smiled playfully and voiced the words that thundered through the pharaoh's unshakable will.

"I mean, you are a better person than Gilgamesh, right, Ozymandias?"

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

Fragment 23: The Pharaoh's New Groove

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

The French had their wonderful salon, and the Britons enjoyed occasional privacy within their much smaller Camelot room. As not to be outdone, Ozymandias thought it proper that the Egyptians should also have a place to call their own, one that would surpass both in grandeur. He had called in the favor for his powerful assistance during the last singularity, and Gudao begrudgingly granted him his desire under one stipulation: They had to use a room that wasn't in use. The compromise was begrudgingly taken, and the largest remaining room on the Salon's level, roughly the same size as the Camelot Room, was chosen.

Faux sandstone bricks covered the renovated walls and ceiling, giving the room the feeling of a pyramid. Occasional smooth pillars with hieroglyphics gave further support to the ceiling, with a lone, golden pyramid window that gave view to the sky above. A large table rested in the center, similar to Arturia's gifted room, though it resembled the banquet table from the Sun King's lands. Prana torches lit the sides since the regular Chaldean lighting was removed, casting tiny, flickering shadows across the fake fur carpet. The chairs were just as luxurious, featuring ivory colored backers, and faux gold construction.

While Nitocris sat herself on one of the exquisite chairs, her mind remained boggle. She had been thankful for the comfortable clothes she received yesterday, taking particular liking to the white, satin sundress she wore. She often voiced to him how confused she was to receive her first order yesterday, only a day after arrival, but was no doubt more perplexed by his recent statement. "I'm not too sure I understand, Ozymandias."

"From this day forth, I shall treat our fellow Chaldeans with the respect they deserve, so I may get the love and adoration I deserve!"

"But…! But they are the ones who are in the wrong for not prostrating yourself before you… before us!" Nitocris exclaimed with vigor. "We are pharaohs! We may be servants, but we still have our pride and dignity! We shouldn't lower ourselves to their level even if they have proven to be remarkable allies… and friendly individuals… and… oh..."

Ozymandias watched in amusement as Nitocris trailed off, a slight blush on her cheeks for realizing she really did get a soft spot for her now fellow Chaldeans during the singularity. He began once more. "You would be right. However, I have thought about it… We have graced our people with grand achievements that have stood the test of time! For that, we earned their endless praise and worship… but what have we done for Chaldea? Surely being great allies is not enough, and we should not appear as freeloaders! So I will give this idea a chance! I must give them a reason to acknowledge me as the best! Better than the King of Heroes will ever be!"

"Of course he would be brought up, but I see no cause for worry," Nitocris giggled quietly, thoguh Ozymandias ignored it. The rivalry between the two was likely larger than Emiya and Cu's at this point, and he had raised that issue with her several times since her arrival; Admittedly, he probably talked her ear off about his rival. "Gilgamesh does not hold a candle to your greatness, Ozymandias. I regret to say he is even closer to your greatness than myse-"

"I command you never say those words again, Nitocris!" Ozymandias' voice boomed, widening her eyes as she looked at the pharaoh. He smiled, confident and undeniable. "You are a fellow pharaoh. No matter how short your reign, we are equals! Never forget that, oh lovely, Heavenly Queen."

Nitocris felt a blush spread on her cheeks. He laughed, confusing the pharaoh before she could jump to a hasty conclusion… as usual. "I meant what I said, but did it come out well? I might as well start practicing so I may impress our Chaldean allies."

Nitocris blinked... then giggled. With a smile, she looked towards the pharaoh and nodded. "Their hearts are already won, Ozymandias."

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ III ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

"That's a cute picture of you and Mordred," Jeanne noted happily as she stared into the room, eyeing the new picture frames on the wall. The photo showed an overenthusiastic Mordred getting a piggyback ride from a partially amused, but mostly disbelieving, King of Knights. They were both in their unarmored battle attire.

Arturia smiled. "Mashu's a great photographer."

The saint stood politely in the door to the smaller blonde's room, hands folded neatly behind the back of her blue tank top, as the king placed her last laundry into the closet. Arturia quickly tied her hair into a ponytail with a white ribbon, matching the color of her's and Jeanne's gym shorts. With a quick look in the mirror, checking to make sure her newly laundered, blue shirt had no surprise soap residue, she smiled and turned to her friend. With a nod, Jeanne walked into the hallway as a robot passed by, carrying a mountain of clothing. Judging by the amount of red and their intricacy, it was definitely for Nero.

Arturia turned off the light, and locked the room with the keycard. She turned to Jeanne with a smile. "Let's not keep the men waiting."

"King of Knights! Maid of Orleans! Pleasant day to you both!"

The two slightly cringed at the voice, and likely braced themselves for the pompous and arrogant King of Kings to continue his usual antics. To their surprise as they turned to politely look at him, he had a small smile on his face as opposed to his haughty smirk. His torso was still exposed, he had his strut, and a hand was still in the pocket of his luxurious pants, but the smile threw them for a loop. They stared in silent surprise while the approaching male secretly enjoyed the already different reaction. They weren't giving usual blank stares at least.

"I must know... how are you two on this sunny afternoon?"

They looked to each other and blinked; It may be snowing, but to him, the sun always shined with his presence! Jeanne answered quickly with a small smile. "Just enjoying another good day."

He eyed their wear. "Athletics I see? Is it the same one Astolfo said he would be participating in?"

Arturia nodded subtly. "We are having a friendly football game between France and Britain in the gymnasium."

"Ah... Recreation to foster good will between two countries. I shall adopt this idea for myself sometime in hopes we pharaohs can try the same!"

Jeanne's eyebrows lifted slightly. "You and Nitocris want to play football?"

"We pharaohs love to be amused, and we wish to show our power and appreciation to our generous allies. The two go hand in hand!"

Jeanne and Arturia looked to each other in even more surprise. He was certain it definitely sounded like he was trying to be nice, but the idea he was doing it was likely throwing them for the loop; It was only to be expected. Perhaps he should have subdued some of his superior tone, or maybe it sounded forced? Trying not to be as supposedly proud and conceited was proving difficult. This was a good test run, but he must continue to practice and iron out any flaws. As they were contemplating where the conversation was headed next, they were stunned when he decided to simply walk away with a wave of his hand.

He stopped. "It was a nice little talk we held. It's reassuring that you are both in good spirits, especially you, King Arturia. That last singularity was very… trying."

Arturia's smile faded but she nodded firmly. "It was… The Lion King was a difficult opponent, but one that needed to be taken down no matter how much strong- "

"I demand you acknowledge the truth that I see, King of Knights!" Arturia lost her voice as his prideful voice boomed in the hallway. The two girls visibly braced for the worst, but he was about to prove to them he was truly taking steps down the path to treating them with proper respect. "She will never be anything compared to you! Even if her mind has seen many years, yours has proven sharper! Even if her body is more womanly perfect, yours is the one not torn asunder! Be happy, knowing you are truly the King Arthur of legend! That the greatest pharaoh that sits over all acknowledges this!"

With a satisfied smirk at getting his truthful message across, he nodded to them. Content with himself, he walked down the hallway and thought back on his first attempt. He didn't think his superior tone took to his voice as strongly that time, so he was happy about that. Compliments had been rained upon two of Chaldea's most acknowledged, so he was content to know he did right there too. In fact, he didn't believe he did anything wrong in that conversation, and silently congratulated himself for a great first step down the road to earning Chaldea's admiration; His small friend Astolfo should have been here to witness his triumph!

"A-Arty, You should just ignore that one line! I think he's still learning to be nice!" Jeanne comforted as she looked at her troubled friend.

Arturia had her hands firmly placed upon her breasts, a disappointed expression written clearly in her features as she felt what was there… or what was barely there, to be specific. Unbeknownst to Ozymandias, he had struck a recent source of chagrin for her, only made worse since she was now more open to showing her emotions under kingship. Seeing her adversary's other 'weapons' had become a forbidden topic, but he was blissfully unaware.

She breathed in and out slowly, calming herself down by softly speaking. "I do not envy… the Lion King. At all."

"We talked about this before, Arty. Remember our girl talks?" Jeanne attempted to soothe. "We love you for who you are. Emiya loves you the way you are, right?"

The saint watched as her friend's gaze slowly turned from her own cupped chest to Jeanne's. She blushed as the king groaned quietly, "Arty!"

It seemed the pharaoh's chosen words could also use some refinement with his delivery.

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ IV ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

"I appreciate you helping out, even though it's not necessary."

"I insist, Doctor Roman. Until the masters require something of me, I am free to do as I please. Since you were the first to welcome me so readily and eagerly a few days ago, it is the least I can do to help my first real friend in Chaldea."

The doctor scratched the back of his head with a sheepish grin. "Ah… don't mention it, David. It's the least I can do to welcome a friendly servant."

The green haired servant smiled as he reorganized some of the medical supplies in a nearby cabinet. His green eyes darted to a nearby reference chart to be sure he was doing it right. Most of his pale skin was hidden beneath the white collared shirt and black slacks, paired with equally nice shoes. A fairly formal belt with a silver buckle matched custom made cufflinks in the shape of shepherd canes. As he continued to sort, Chaldea's unofficial director looked at his back from the monitoring counter with a fond smile. Da Vinci was nearby, giving Roman a disappointed look out of his sight.

"W-wait! You can't just-" "I'm the King of Kings! Of course I am permitted!"

Suddenly, the double doors flew open to reveal Ozymandias with a bright smirk and hands akimbo. Samantha stood behind him nervously, having failed to stop him. Had David not been a servant, he may have jumped from the shock and dropped the first aid kit he finished organizing. Fortunately, he was not as he stared at the proud rider.

"Doctor Roman! A fine day for greeting the wounded!"

Doctor Roman looked back towards Da Vinci. Even she was confused. "Greeting the wounded?"

"Uplifting the spirits of brave allies injured in singularities, of course. It is not a job a pharaoh should normally be doing, but after thinking about it I realized, there is no better way to make a positive impression than for the greatest of kings to address the wounded directly! They are brave comrades, after all!"

'Make a positive impression…' The inventor stared blankly at the pharaoh as he pridefully walked towards the patient rooms. Doctor Roman was stuttering while David simply enjoyed the show. "W-wait! Ozymandias, there's-"

"If there is only one, they will be glad my presence is reserved for him alone this day!"

Doctor Roman sighed, and slowly shook his head. Ozymandias studied his expression curiously. "There's no patients. Blackbeard left this morning."

Ozymandias blinked, but simply chuckled. "I see. Then I shall return another time! You must inform me when there is an ample audience!"

Doctor Roman inwardly groaned as Ozymandias pointed a finger at him. He simply nodded as the pharaoh began to leave- He stopped and looked at David. A smirk soon appeared on his face. "A new servant? I have not seen your face before."

"Ozymandias," The archer nodded and held his hand out. "I am David."

The pharaoh slowly took it and shook, still not too comfortable with the gesture himself. His eyebrow quirked. "King David of Israel? How interesting. You carry yourself like a regular person. Why is that?"

The green haired man simply chuckled. "I wish to be but a shepherd as a servant, but I shall still help the masters to the best of my abilities."

"And forgo everything you've worked for as the King of Israel? It does not shine like mine, but why would one abandon their legacy?"

Da Vinci groaned at his slipped pride, but David seemed unperturbed. "I do not forgo or regret my past as a ruler... I simply wish to live how I please, as the masters stated I could within Chaldea. Regardless of how I carry myself now, the past will not change. I will still be King David of Israel."

Ozymandias was curious about this notion, and it partially irritated him on some level. As a proud ruler, one must always carry themselves with pride and regal poise. But David still carried himself well even without formalities. He still had that regal air about him, but he was very approachable by the definition. The thought intrigued him, that one could live so humbly, yet not dishonor the grand legacy they had left behind as a king.

It opened his mind a little, further reinforcing that what the pharaoh was currently doing for adoration was not so wrong after all. They did still see him as Ozymandias, even though he was being more cordial on this test of a day. The possibility of continuing this did not seem so far flung anymore, and with a proud smirk he silently thanked Astolfo for starting him on this path. It appears in all his many years and accumulated wisdom, there was still much he could learn through different views.

"I like your fascinating outlook! I shall allow it!" Ozymandias laughed as he clasped a hand onto the archer's shoulder. "We should discuss more sometime! Were it my era, I would host a proper banquet with the finest wine and dancing women, but there is only so much I may do in Chaldea."

"Quite a shame."

As David nodded his head, Roman and Da Vinci caught the small glint in his eyes upon the mention of women. They groaned together.

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ V ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

Kiyohime happily sipped her special drink Gudao requested for her. Gabrielle and Da Vinci were also on the sender's list, but she didn't pay them as much attention as her dear master. After all this time, he finally gave her something sweet, and the smoothie she happily savored with each gulp was beyond delicious. It was probably the best mood she's been in since arriving in Chaldea, and she was glad her master seemed to finally appreciate her more than Mashu or Tamamo; It was clear to her she would be the winner of Gudao's heart.

As her light blue kimono glistened under the diffused light of the windowed hallway, she looked up to see Ozymandias strolling past in a white version of his usual attire. Her mood almost took a downfall, bracing for Gilgamesh's rival to- He simply nodded, and waved at her. With a prideful smile, he kept walking so the berserker wouldn't have to abandon her straw to say anything. The last time she had been drinking, he had demanded her polite attention because she was speaking to a pharaoh.

She looked back at him in confusion, watching him strut towards the library, before turning around and shrugging. At least her mood wasn't ruined.

The man didn't pay her any further heed, especially when three similar assassins appeared from the open library doors. Cursed Arm, still without a proper shirt for his slacks, walked beside Hundred Face as they chatted. They appeared to be talking to their companion about the pony-tailed woman's jeans and black blouse, since the new arrival seemed very curious about a set of her own. The short, blue haired servant simply smiled, and admired the possible choices as Hundred Face continued to explain to their fellow Hassan. It was Serenity that noticed the Sun King first, bringing the group to a halt as her eyes studied him warily.

He simply chuckled and waved as he approached. "Ah! The famed Old Men of the Mountain! I am sure you are happy your numbers grow!"

Cursed Arm and Hundred Face looked to each other curiously while Serenity kept silent. It was the male assassin who stepped forward to respond. "Good afternoon, Sun King. We ar-"

"No, I command you to call me Ozymandias as everyone else!" Though it sounded like a command, his expression held much less pride than usual.

Hundred Face was even more taken back this time. She had been mentally preparing herself to prostrate herself before him, much like he did upon first sight of Nitocris, to apologize for her trespassing and kidnapping of an Egyptian ruler. Nitocris had been surprisingly cordial about it, though haughty, and it seemed to her like Ozymandias would react similarly. She would just wait for the gap in the conversation to state her mind. She listened in, noting Serenity seemed more comfortable as the two males had been talking rather politely.

"There is no need to thank me for saving the village and assisting with the Lion King, Cursed Arm. It was a beautiful display of what my glorious armies were capable of, so it was only fit that I do so!"

He was not about to admit his hesitation of fighting King Hassan was what really motivated him; Ozymandias had a proper image to uphold, after all. To his disappointment, though that did not show, Cursed Arm chuckled that eerie laugh; It appears he did know the true reason, and he silently cursed Master Gabrielle for being so talkative sometimes. Why couldn't it have been Gudao to get apprehended?

"I'm glad you did, and powerful they were," Cursed Arm flattered. The small, growing smirk proved it worked. "I have not had the opportunity to say so, but it is good to have a powerful ally on our side."

Ozymandias nodded and began walking away towards the library. "Of course! I look forward to helping my weaker allies through the coming battles as well!"

Serenity blinked at the last statement while Hundred Face groaned; The long haired woman apparently wouldn't have a chance to properly apologize, and it seemed Ozymandias still had a bit to go with his arrogance should he really be cordial. Cursed Arm chuckled more in amusement, clearly seeing what Ozymandias was really trying to say over his own pride as he continued walking.

The group was about to leave when they noticed Hans standing near the open doors, glaring at Ozymandias with crossed arms. Silently, the caster shut the doors as the rider came to a halt before him. While Hans looked gravely annoyed, the difference in size made him hard to take serious by the olive-skinned pharaoh. The difference was only amplified as the caster took a step towards him.

"Ozymandias. Your inconsiderate, booming voice is echoing into the library while some are trying to read in peace."

"That's where you're mistaken, Hans. While I did not intend to upset the laws laid by my allies of Chaldea, to hear the voice of a pharaoh is always a gift."

Hans groaned. "I'm surprised you even see Chaldea as an ally over that mountain of pride. Did you lower the height of your throne in hopes of others' hearing your demands? Finally done stroking your ego in your room's lonely mirror, only to hear the praise from our forced mouths?"

Ozymandias mood slowly dropped as Hans simply glared him down. He always felt much taller than he looked. "Which brings up the curiosity… There's no record of you ever walking around Chaldea so… openly. Even spending dinner in the Salon as of late. You and Gilgamesh are always content to keeping secluded, though you come out on a rare occasion to remind us of your supremacy… yet here you are for the second day in a row. How peculiar."

The rider remained silent as the caster's gaze narrowed. "Feeling more cordial after wrenching your favor from the masters? Or perhaps Nitocris' arrival is forcing you to build a façade for her to admire? How petty for a King of Kings to fake his popularity, and here I thought pharaohs weren't supposed to stoop low."

The pharaoh's smile had all but faltered. Suddenly, this game of playing nice with the allies was no longer fun with a few daring words from a man so short. As he returned the look with a blank stare, employees kept their distance while robots simply went about their routines, giving the two ample space as they passed. All had been going relatively well, until he had to open his mouth. He wanted to berate the small man, to prove how much better he is due to his status. He was the greatest pharaoh to exist, and none should deny his-

No. Astolfo had raised a point. As much as he did not agree with the idea at first, he would see it through properly or mar his word in mud otherwise. This was just an obstacle, a mere challenge to that idea to see if he would fail. To fail the challenge would deface his greatness, and would only prove that the rumors that he was simply another King of Heroes, right down to the arrogance. He will not fail.

So he laughed, grating the caster's nerves but shocking him at the same time. "Ah, Hans. You are just as critical as everyone says you are. I have nothing to prove to anyone, for I am a pharaoh… The greatest of pharaohs."

Hans was about to turn up the heat on his scathing remarks before Ozymandias' raised hand stopped him. "However… I have simply realized that I have been acting improper of my station. I have seen you all as subjects, which you are not. While you are all weaker than I, you fight for the same purpose and equal resolve. I admit my pride could have been… overbearing at times for my allies, so I wish to remedy this lest I leave further marks across my splendor. I do not wish for anyone to continue seeing me in such a manner. There is only one light a pharaoh should be seen."

Hans scoffed. "Cordial behavior as required by your title? You've chosen to see Chaldea and the servants as your allies… to selfishly promote your character's persona? What you've just inferred is the only reason you're being moderately affable is so you may acquire further adoration and acclaim that you feel entitled to. Is that it?"

Once more, Ozymandias remained surprisingly silent to allow him to continue. "Sometimes I wonder if anything can fit in your head with all those conceited thoughts… How laughable. How utterly condescending of you. To put it simply for a selfishly sociopathic person such as yourself, you're only doing this so people might like you?"

Ozymandias didn't even flinch. He chuckled. "As a pharaoh, you should know that entitles me to act how I wish. So yes. That is correct."

'His pride really does no know bounds…' Hans was practically agape. He couldn't comprehend what he just heard.

Usually the targeted servant would be reeling or angrily voicing their opinion at Hans. Yet here was Ozymandias, proudly continuing to stand even though his whole motivation had been completely torn to shreds in front of him. He was going to continue these firm actions whether the caster continued to berate him or not. Though Hans thought he was doing it selfishly for himself, which was true to an extent, it was feeling genuinely good to be generous.

Just when he thought he'd get more verbal berating from the caster, Hans groaned, and surprisingly threw his hands up in annoyance. "It's your life, Ozymandias… Live it as pridefully as you want, I guess."

"Of course! That is how it must always be!" The rider laughed heartily as the caster begrudgingly opened the library door- Shakespeare, Medusa, and Ushiwakamaru stood leaning at the other side of the door before quickly scrambling back to their former positions. At least Atlanata and the children were still at the windows.

With a shake of his head, he turned back to glance at Ozymandias taking his leave. The caster and the distant assassins watched as the pharaoh walked further down the hallway towards the cafeteria. For anyone to see him so casually walking about, not even in spirit form, was already a remarkable change. Hans' glare lifted slightly and he mused quietly, "His motivations might not be in the right place, but... maybe in time they would be. He just needs a real resolution."

It was possible the caster was giving far too much optimism to the pharaoh. It was also possible that Ozymandias would just simply revert to his old, partially secluded and overly superior personality he held before Nitocris arrived... but stranger things have happened in Chaldea, so maybe there was a chance for him.

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ VI ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

"It's unusual for you to be out, but to willingly accompany me for a walk?"

"You are a man of valor, Arash, as proven even when we were adversaries. I have declared it, therefore-… I mean to say, I do not mind."

Arash, battle attire at the ready, laughed as they continued down the hallway to the shooting range. Ozymandias silently patted himself on the back, since he was getting far better at recognizing when his pride may potentially overreach. A few employees and servants had already greeted and talked with him in a friendly manner, using his favorite titles with accompanying compliments. His efforts have come much further and faster than he could have imagined, and he was proud of that. Soon enough, all of Chaldea will treat him how he desires, and he will secure his image as the King of Kings.

Not to say that he didn't enjoy interacting with others. Before it would always be those closest to him and his direct servants. Anyone else would usually fall silent and unwilling as he shifted every conversation to boast of himself and achievements. To be on such welcome terms with a handful of allies, and former adversaries, so soon was a great feeling. From a ruler's standpoint, this diplomacy had merits he could easily appreciate. Although, regardless of how close some may dare to get in the future, he had to wonder…

"I must say, Ozymandias. Whatever has you in such good moods these past few days, it's really making you the center of attention lately," the archer spoke up with a small smile. "Some think you're doing it just to help in your rivalry with Gilgamesh, but I don't think so… May I ask a question?"

"I shall permit it."

"Your legacy shines like the sun as is… but is there another reason besides the desired praise? Or possibly your rivalry?"

Ozymandias blinked and looked at the archer walking beside him curiously. "Can there be any other reason?"

Arash nodded. "You're only limited by what you think… I just thought, maybe… you're doing it so someone specific would be proud of you for listening to others and being friendly. It's not uncommon for many to have regrets here but…"

The archer fell silent when he saw Ozymandias' blank expression facing forward. He could see the thoughts racing through his eyes, but he did not see the white haired man the pharaoh called his closest friend. He didn't think about it in that way but, would Moses really be proud he finally listened… when it took so much tragedy to make him do so before? Would he be proud for daring to lower himself to give his allies the respect they deserve?

Ozymandias took a deep breath and realized, that maybe his thoughts were selfish enough to blind even him. He had been doing all this with the intent of getting praise he deserved, and never once thought he'd be earning a reason for those cherished individuals to be proud of him. He loved to show off his victories for Nefertari, and just because she or Moses weren't here to watch didn't mean they couldn't be proud. What if they arrived one day and they learned of how approachable and respecting he'd become? What if it would mend the frayed strands between him and his old friend?

It clicked, and Ozymandias finally had the true resolve to see this through from here on. It had all started with his simple, prideful desire to be worshiped and praised like the King of Kings. Through many talks, he had finally seen that he could still get that, but something far more meaningful along the way. New bonds and respect he never would have realized before in his selfish wishes. A content state of mind knowing if those he cared about would appear once more, they would be happy to see him and who he'd become.

"Ozymandias, I'm sorry if I touched on a bad sub-"

"You have this great pharaoh's gratitude, Arash," The pharaoh interrupted calmly, with a small smile on his face. Unlike his smirk, this one held hints of a new resolution. The archer's eyes noted this with interest. "You truly are a man of valor in more ways than one. I see why many in Chaldea appreciate you so dearly."

"I'm not too sure I did anything to be honest, but you're welcome," Arash laughed. Ozymandias chuckled and nodded.

The archer had done more than he could have imagined in that one message.

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ VII ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

"Don't forget who the best Empress is!"

"As you will remember who the King of Kings is," Ozymandias joked back at the departing Roman. The two laughed haughtily, unnerving some nearby employees who passed both in the corridors near the gymnasium. The golden necklace clinked gently under his newly laundered, black outfit as he checked an acquired Rolex from a previous singularity.

It was nearly two in the afternoon, and the pharaoh had made significant gains among the Chaldean community. He was impressed, both with how much easier this was becoming with practice… and it was still only day three of his attempt. He knew being cordial with someone was an easy way to win their respect and admiration, but pride always stood above all else. Slowly he found a balance, much like Nero had. He could still retain the respect he deserved as the greatest of pharaohs, but earn something new to accompany it. He silently wondered if his dearest friend and wife are smiling down on the new him.

If he remembered right, his dear sister Tamamo should be in the- He stared curiously at the approaching pair of servants, not recognizing the pale but gorgeous female next to Nitocris. Her outfit resembled more of a modern goth he'd seen in one of the fashion magazine in the Clothing Department. She pulled it off well, and her strut was perfection personified. But it was the golden, familiar jewelry that brought a proud smirk to his face. Light application of makeup and sharp, inviting eyes glanced towards him as Nitocris' smile grew. The pair approached, with the new arrival's long strands of teal hair waving gently behind her swaying hips as she smiled.

"That commanding air and bright presence. You are surely a pharaoh," Ozymandias greeted with a chuckle.

He was answered with a proud laugh and brighter smile. "Indeed I am. You must be the great Sun King Ozymandias. Nitocris has told me much praise about you, and I see neither her nor your legacy, which our country holds dear, could ever be wrong. I am Cleopatra VII, the last of us."

Ozymandias' smirk broadened. "Another one of our finest! It is a great week for Chaldea, with two more pharaohs gracing its grounds!"

"I wholeheartedly agree… but I must say, I am disappointed in how many hold themselves. They are too... disrespectful of my presence. Staring and gawking. Holding their heads too high in my sight… and some even daring not to acknowledge my being… This must be remedied."

Nitocris looked at Ozymandias with a small, amused, and apologetic smile. He simply chuckled, causing Cleopatra to raise an eyebrow. "Cleopatra. I have deemed these Chaldeans have proven to be worthy allies on numerous occasions. With that in mind, I have made efforts to interact with them on a more cordial level."

She blinked. "I do not intend to demean your splendor, Ozymandias, but I would have expected the greatest of pharaohs to demand these allies know their place on the hierarchy."

"I have reminded them previously, and they acknowledge it to very different degrees… but now I see clearly. Chaldea has grown on me like no other. They are not our people, but they are special. They were rulers and heroes of their own times, and it is only right that the King of Kings should respect the titles they earned. For we cannot be the greatest, if there were no one great to compare us with! We can only become even better, if we allow them and the masters to help!"

Cleopatra nodded slowly in curiosity, seemingly acknowledging his point. He had thought back to his own summoning to gauge the proper response for the fellow pharaoh. Like him, she was summoned as a servant and had no doubt reluctantly acknowledged the contract with the masters. However, he knew as a pharaoh she had also entertained many important guests in her time while firmly reminding them of their place. This experience with foreign relations and cordial dialogue could be the key to letting her grasp his new view. He would have a discussion with her about this later, but for now, she was at least entertaining the possibility.

"A… valid point. I shall consider it," she nodded once more. Nitocris looked at her watch, indicating they were likely pressed for time to get the tour done so she can get settled in her room. "I'm afraid we must part for now, dear Ozymandias… where were you taking me next, Nitocris?"

"We just came from the gym, so maybe the Clothing Department should be the nex-"

"Did you say clothing?" Cleopatra's eyes were suddenly shining like the sun itself. Well, if you asked Ozymandias, they always were; She's a pharaoh after all. "I must find out the latest fashion trends of this time! It's not enough I look my best in battle, I must also have a gorgeous wardrobe if I am to stay in this residence. Lead me at once!"

Nitocris and Ozymandias passed each other amused looks. Perhaps they should introduce her to Empress Nero sometime.

¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨(¯ˆ·.¸ VIII ¸.·ˆ¯)¨·..·¨·..·¨·..·¨

Salon de Marie was always bustling with activity in dinner, so for the life to grind to a sudden, hushed whisper meant one of only a few things.

As footsteps made their way across the carpet towards him, Ozymandias took a quick sip of his ice water before placing the glass back onto the booth's table. While he always loved fine wine, especially those presented by his dear wife, drinking the clear liquid always reminded him of his home. To his people, the drink was a commodity in the harsh sands, and a luxury when cold. With every sip, he paid homage to his beloved people who admired him back, a small nod that while he may be above them, he was still one with the Egypt. But it was not something he would ever openly admit… before now.

"Ramesses II… we will have words." Especially not in front of him.

"Then be seated," The pharaoh motioned towards the seat in front of him. His reluctance did not show as Gilgamesh sat down without hanging his leopard print jacket on the booth's embedded coat hanger. He simply adjusted his collared shirt with a free hand before making eye contact with Ozymandias amid the silence.

The King of Heroes sipped from his golden cup while scrutinizing the pharaoh before him with his gaze. It was clear he was not happy, but there was that ever-present hint of pride and arrogance in his eyes. What was more disconcerting was how much brighter it was in that moment as he casually placed his golden cup onto the table. Gilgamesh always looked and acted like supreme royalty, but before Ozymandias it was always more pronounced. Today it was at its summit.

"I've overheard some… interesting discussions. Many mongrels seem to think you've talked to them in a more respectful manner."

Ozymandias simply smirked and began pouring himself some fine Italian wine. It was one of Nero's suggestions from their interaction earlier, and he would privately judge her tastes based off of it. Gilgamesh frowned as the pharaoh seemed to be taking his time with an answer, potentially making him further irritated on purpose. It would not be the first time he would assume his superiority was better than the King of Heroes. The surrounding tables chatted quietly as they listened, but Gilgamesh paid them no heed this time.

The pharaoh chuckled lightly. "Is it wrong to be pleasant to your allies, Gilgamesh?"

With eyes narrowed, Gilgamesh growled. "Must I remind you that I will not be addressed as such?"

"You have stated that, as I have stated you will call me Ozymandias after your… little accident. Surely you remember everything as a child, or am I wrong?"

Ozymandias' eyes glinted of mischief, but he was right. Gilgamesh's hands clenched as he thought about what his more childish self had committed. To dare be so friendly with everyone was beyond aggravation, but to openly give Ozymandias praise for being more approachable and polite than himself? To think he had even done so in front of several servants he would not even dare naming. It was infuriating to think that his little self and Ozymandias had been on potentially decent terms. He would no longer allow that.

"The potion affects more than just age… but it is no matter. It appears our rivalry is over, since you have so openly treated everyone as allies as opposed to subjects." Gilgamesh closed his eyes and smirked as he took a sip from his cup. "If you were truly the King of Kings, you would not have bowed down so easily."

Gilgamesh opened his eyes and felt his smirk vanish. Ozymandias was not affected in the least, and his own leer remained. "There is nothing wrong with one amongst the gods to appreciate great allies. I have seen that now, with the thanks of the Memorial Essence from this past singularity. All our fellow servants, even you, Gilgamesh, have done incredible feats when working together. It is only right praise finally be delivered where it is deserved."

As the King of Heroes studied his words, Ozymandias raised his wine glass to his mouth. "It is only fair I treat them with the respect I hold them to, as is proper of a pharaoh. To state otherwise would tarnish my station. They are our allies… those servants and masters who will save the world with us."

Gilgamesh scoffed. "Us? You include me now as well? What happened to everyone helping you saving the world? Do not entertain the thought I would even agree-"

"Of course you would never entertain the thought… but I do. Chaldea has more than earned that right, I see that now. My pride is absolute, but it will not allow me to be blinded to that fact. It is not only a disservice to them, but a disgrace upon my own title. A pharaoh sits at the very top, but that does not make those below any less special. I may shine like the sun, and they are stars that help light the night to come."

To Ozymandias' amusement, Gilgamesh clearly heard the growing murmurs from around the salon. That last line had apparently been the most interesting to them, as some science employees at a nearby table began discussing his comparison eagerly. He had crafted a compliment, yet it was also a cleverly disguised boast of his own importance; Gilgamesh could at least acknowledge that, no? However, defeating Gilgamesh was no easy feat. The archer likely still believed he was superior, and even more so now that he was seemingly lowering himself to talk with others.

"And you still believe in your grand importance… even after your actions. You will continue to fall off that throne, and I will gladly watch you do so. You are no longer my rival, for you will no longer be worthy of even that gracious title… When the time arrives when you've lowered yourself to their level, will you still dare to declare you are the King of Kings? Will you still believe that you have the right to acknowledge yourself as the greatest of pharaohs when you've mingled with the street's curs? What will you do then, Ozymandias?"

Gilgamesh stood up from the table with his golden cup, leaving the booth curtly yet calmly with a smirk. Ozymandias let him think he made unmistakable point. Waiting quietly as he walked away proudly, he readied his words. The rider reached for his wine glass, and spoke clearly.

"I will wish them a good morning, like a true pharaoh."

He turned to him in shock, masked by irritation and an incredulous stare. Gilgamesh was met with a proud smirk as Ozymandias raised his wine glass towards him. Growling, he turned around once more and marched out of the salon. Nitocris and Cleopatra, both flanking the door as he left, watched with numerous other eyes as he dematerialized. With the King of Heroes gone, the two slowly made their way towards Ozymandi-

The entire room erupted into applause. Compliments were yelled across the room as robots attempted to bring out the appetizers. With most of the room now giving a standing ovation, he took a sip and savored the delightful liquid. Ozymandias silently made a note to credit Nero's choice in improving the taste of this victory as he stood up. With a hearty laugh, he nodded in several directions across the room. Nitocris and Cleopatra continued to walk to him slowly, taking in the whole picture with pride; This was what a pharaoh deserved.

"Thank you! Your praise and admiration is always accepted! I, the great Ozymandias, King of Kings, assure you, I am worthy of it all and more!"

There were chuckles as he revealed his ever proud self for a brief moment, but in that one conversation he had made a promising statement for the rest of his journey. He sat down as the room settled into their own tables once more. Nitocris and Cleopatra took their seats, with the latter watching the robot curiously as it effortlessly did a professional job of cleaning the table, and precisely placing tonight's appetizers. Ozymandias could see the gears turning in her head, probably in realization that they even did the laundry, and cleaning for them too.

She looked around the room, noticing the promising glances sent towards the male pharaoh on occasion. She giggled, "You're making me envious of your oratory skills."

He smiled and laughed, "A high compliment coming from the diplomatic Cleopatra."

"Yet a well-deserved one… Though I do not believe I will follow such a route myself, regardless of how spectacular your results are. I do not like the idea of being treated so… casually by such lower individuals. Not as an insult to you, greatest pharaoh. You have more of my respect for handling it with such grace. If I am ever to-"

"Hiiii~! Ozymandias! Way to stick it to Gil!" Astolfo happily greeted as he bounced over to the table.

Ozymandias began to put his drink down to acknowledge the rider, but Cleopatra hastily stood from the table. Astolfo flinched under her gaze in uncertainty, though Nitocris took amusement with the male pharaoh. The newest arrival was eyeing the rider's clothes with delighted eyes, visibly milking the way his vintage swing dress complimented the cheerful attitude of its wearer. Sky blue bows in his hair, and a matching, colored waist sash tied at the back only made the outfit cuter. From the glossy pink heels to the collar of the dress' shirt top, the ensemble screamed of a bygone, iconic American era… and Cleopatra no doubt loved it.

"Oh! You precious thing! I command you to turn around! I demand-! Yes! Yes! Keep turning! Yes. Yes. No! You will stop there! That is fine! Now twirl- Yes, like that!"

Astolfo blinked in confusion as the female pharaoh continued to look him over like a delicious treat. She placed her arms akimbo and pointed at him with sparkling eyes. "You will divulge everything about this to me immediately! A pharaoh does not take no for an answer! I must know of this delightful fashion you wear so well!"

As nearby tables watched the sight in amusement, Astolfo turned to his friend with a pleading expression. Coupled with the dress, it only made the rider more adorable. Ozymandias simply laughed heartily at his friend's expense.

The days to come were truly promising.