Special Thanks to dear Ekaterina016 for their immense help in Beta-reading this chapter and helping with the brainstorming of the plot.
This story would not be possible without you.
I do not own Magi or Type-Moon content.
Balbadd:
Balbadd has become a republic under the jurisdiction of Sindria and the Seven Seas Alliance… at least for the time being. Sindbad has already made the request for the fallen nation to be recognized as such by Kou.
Given the overwhelming presence of the continental empire, the decision is clear as day. Kouen frowned as he read the latest reports on the reconstruction and clean ups around the city, the discovery of a great deal of corpses in certain areas still at the forefront of most of them.
All of them had one thing in common: being illegal slave dealers – although that hardly mattered to the First Prince compared to the identities of their killers. Kouen was never one to leave a mystery unresolved, and his relentless investigation gave him the answer he sought. His gaze analyzed the report given by the former viceroy of Balbadd concerning the envoy of Uruk, a feral smirk soon spreading on his face.
He was very interested in them, to say the least, after hearing Kougyoku's own accounts, and now knowing they were the ones to deal with such a number of people so efficiently further fueled his desire to see Uruk with his own eyes.
Kouen began writing his request without a second thought, a passion in his eyes as he sought to unravel the mysteries this nation held. Sindbad might have achieved first contact with the envoy before him, but his sources confirmed he didn't manage to make any use of it.
"Shou En."
His household member entered the room and bowed. Kouen rolled the paper and stamped it with his seal, before handing it over to his servant.
"Instruct your best soldier to deliver this letter to the Kingdom of Uruk as soon as possible."
"As you command, Your Highness."
Kouen dismissed En and moved to stand by the window, already feeling excited at the potential prospects this mysterious nation could bring. His eyes narrowed at the thought of those priests back home, plotting some plan or other to infect Uruk like the parasites they are.
He refused to let them have their way; he must set this kingdom on the right track before Uruk's response comes. A letter to his father must also be sent to inform him of this diplomatic endeavor he's leading – hopefully, it will keep that woman from interfering.
With blazing motivation, Kouen returned to his duties.
Uruk:
Scheherazade breathed in the scent of the sea, her eyes staring intently at the port not far away and the buildings visible from a distance. She could see the veritable fortress in the far distance, a majestic construct towering over the rest of the buildings.
Mu stood beside her, his excitement positively palpable from the restless feet-tapping against the wood. The old Magi giggled at such an unusual behavior from the normally calm and collected King Vessel. Their other companions from the Fanalis division were having a much more difficult time than their leader.
Mu observed the towering walls of Uruk, his eyes focusing on the unusual constructs adorning them. The design alluded to it being some sort of weapon, probably similar to a ballista, each of them impressive in size, to say the least. He subconsciously rubbed his chin as his mind tried to estimate the weapon's effective range.
Soon enough, the ship arrived at the port, the group disembarking as soon as they caught sight of Leonidas awaiting them. The docks seemed quite busy, yet Scheherazade could clearly see the smiles on the workers' faces as they went about their duties.
The King of Sparta was accompanied by a magician Scheherazade couldn't recognize, her eyes narrowing at the exceptional fluttering of the rukh swarming around the white-haired fellow giving her a warm smile.
His aura was special, but far from being a King Vessel's. A gut feeling warned her the man standing before her was a fellow Magi.
"Lady Scheherazade, Commander Alexius, I welcome you to Uruk. I hope your journey was smooth."
"It's wonderful to meet you again, Leonidas."
Leonidas noticed the looks she and her entourage were giving to his companion. He turned to the smiling magician beside him and coughed upon noticing the silent smile he was giving the group.
"Allow me to introduce my friend. This is Merlin, the Magus of Flowers."
"I'm honored to meet the Magi of the Reim Empire and her entourage. Allow me to present your grace with a welcoming gift."
Merlin respectfully bowed before he flicked his fingers, a crown of flowers adorning Scheherazade's head, the sweet scent of lilies and lavender gracing her lungs.
She repressed her surprise and politely smiled in response. "Thank you for the gift, Sir Merlin."
"Please follow me, I shall be your guide to His Majesty."
The group followed the two, exiting the docks and entering the bustling city. The ebb and flow of the crowd filled the streets, their guides receiving many greetings from the people around them. Mu's steps halted as he took in the scene of a crew of Fanalis in the middle of a construction site.
There were no chains and no rags on them.
There was no sadness on their faces as they sat together, a redheaded woman bringing them what he assumed to be their lunch.
Mu couldn't quite put the feeling bubbling in his chest to words. A serene smile unknowingly made its way on his face, his attention moving to the couple happily going about their day, and the cheerful child holding their hands.
He froze once he felt his sister's hand on his shoulder, although Myron's own eyes were fixated on the same scene. Turning around, he realized everyone was waiting for him.
Before he could explain, Merlin decided to chirp in. "You need not explain, Commander Alexius. Many of the Fanalis had similar reactions during their first time being in Uruk. We pride ourselves in action over words, especially regarding equality and freedom across all."
"Thank you for your understanding."
Merlin waved him off with a light chuckle, while Leonidas nodded. They continued onward, the visitors sensing a certain tension among certain citizens. Leonidas was quick to explain their behavior as coming from the fact they were slaves destined to the Reim arena before being rescued.
Scheherazade's body tensed as soon as she stepped foot in the Ziggurat, a warm feeling seeping into her body. She was taken off guard by the power of the wards protecting this place, and the sheer amount of rukh flooding the halls. Never had she seen such a concentration of rukh in a single building, the number threatening to flood her field of vision in golden light.
Merlin tapped his staff, the veritable sea of rukh clearing before her. Sheherazade failed to even notice the approach of the magician, as well as her entourage's worried looks. The Magus of Flowers pressed his hand against her temple, energy flowed into her for but a moment before it receded. "Fortunately, you're well; I never expected Magis to be so sensitive to the rukh in His Majesty's home. I apologize for the discomfort."
Scheherazade nodded and reassured Mu and the men, before bidding the two to continue. The amount of rukh continued to increase as they moved deeper into the building, and finally reached its zenith as they entered the throne room.
The Reim group stood at the entrance of the throne room and beheld the ruler of Uruk, sitting on his imposing throne as he read the latest reports. The King's devoted assistant stood beside him with an annoyed look on her face, her eyes glaring at the man reading the reports with great concentration.
Gilgamesh turned his attention from the report to them, his piercing stare causing Mu and the soldiers to straighten up. His gaze lingered for a bit longer on Scheherazade before he sighed, passing the paper to Ningal.
The veiled Fanalis turned towards their guests, her eyes lingering on her fellow clansmen before concentrating on Scheherazade.
Gilgamesh looked almost amused as he met the Magi's gaze. "Welcome to my garden, Magi."
"Thank you, King Gilgamesh, for accepting our request. Although we've just arrived, your kingdom has been most exemplary in all aspects."
Gilgamesh didn't deign to respond, as if it was to be expected. He stood up from his throne and descended the stairs, an incredible aura of charisma and power surrounding his every action. "Then I trust you will find the rest of your time here to be even more enjoyable. Ningal shall guide you to your quarters as I have duties awaiting me. We shall have time to discuss later."
"As you wish. I bid you good day, Your Majesty."
Gilgamesh nodded and walked out of the throne room, the domineering aura dissipating with his departure.
Mu and the other Fanalis let out a breath they didn't know were holding all this time, the pressure on their shoulders disappearing. The ruler exceeded all their expectations by a long shot despite the briefness of their meeting, his disposition unlike any they had seen before.
Ningal smiled at the group, a bit of amusement leaking out of her professional attitude. She casually walked to Scheherazade and beckoned them to follow her. Scheherazade observed Ningal along the way with a warm smile, her eyes searching for something until they caught a glimpse of an Octagram on her bracelet.
"I see you've noticed my Metal Vessel, my Lady."
"I apologize for my rudeness. I was simply wondering if King Gilgamesh also possessed a Metal Vessel, seeing as you have one."
Ningal chuckled, as if the notion was the funniest thing she heard today. Her eyes softened as she seemed to recall a fond memory, a time when her King stood before the Djinn she wielded. It might be just a bias she developed over the years, but she believed in her king's superiority without a shred of a doubt.
So long as he is with them, neither heaven nor earth would disturb their peace.
"His Majesty has no desire of a Djinn nor a Magi. None are fit to be his equal, let alone a guide. His Kingship needs the approval of none but himself."
"I see."
Mu and his companions kept their eyes on the woman in front of them as she discussed with their lady. The commander could feel a certain air about her, different from all the Fanalis he'd seen, yet somehow familiar. Their gazes didn't go unnoticed by Ningal, turning to them with a knowing smile.
"Commander Alexius, I suppose you and your troops had never traveled to the Dark Continent?"
"Yes, Lady Ningal, we haven't. I came close to reaching it, but then I turned back."
"I believe that's the source of the feeling you have, much like the rest of the Fanalis on this side of the rift. You know little of our race."
The group stopped, their eyes burning into the veiled woman. Alexius felt a bit nervous for once; the way Ningal spoke brought back the many questions which pushed him to travel to the Dark Continent in the first place.
"Lady Ningal, does that mean you've visited it yourself?"
"I have. In the past, I accompanied His Majesty and his followers throughout their journey across the world, and he was benevolent enough to take me to the Dark Continent upon my request."
His sister and the others held themselves back well enough, but it was clear they wished to know what the woman in front of them learned. Mu understood their feelings and hoped she would give them what they sought. "Is it possible for you to tell us what you've seen there?"
Ningal's smile slowly vanished, replaced with an apologetic look as she turned back to guide them once more. "My words would offer little to you. You must see for yourself in order to understand what you currently lack… However, I can tell you for certain there are answers at the end of the long path."
Mu sighed, but didn't press the matter as he took his sister and companions to the courtyard. They reached their reserved quarters soon after, the rooms well-prepared and rich in the scent of fragrant incense, spare clothes and food already on the tables.
Ningal left them to their devices not long after, leaving a few servants to see to their needs.
Scheherazade calmly observed the bustling city from the vantage point her room offered, the view from the Ziggurat most breathtaking. Her thoughts went back to the king of this land and his followers, all of whom were exceptional in one way or another. She spotted Mu and the others down in the courtyard with Leonidas, her King Vessel anxious to meet more of their fellow Fanalis.
Deciding to make use of the remaining daylight, she exited her room and moved towards the city. As she exited the Ziggurat, a white-haired woman approached her, her armor and sword somewhat resembling Kou's own designs.
"Greetings, Magi of Reim. My name is Tomoe, a sword of his Majesty."
"It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Tomoe."
"I assume you plan on touring the city?"
"Indeed. Would you care to accompany me? I could use the guidance of one such as yourself."
"It would be my pleasure, my Lady."
The two began their trek throughout the city, the warrior taking Scheherazade to the humble marketplace as their first stop. The little woman took in the sights before her greedily while Tomoe silently followed behind her, answering any questions she had.
Their visit didn't last long before the oni warrior took her companion to their next destination, an ivory tower soon coming to view. Surrounding the structure were several school buildings, people in black uniform moving to and from without minding the visitors much, engrossing themselves in what looked to be research.
"This is the Tower, home to the practitioners of magic in Uruk."
Scheherazade observed the students running around with great interest, the magoi fluctuations palpable as they practiced all kinds of spells in classes. She could tell her presence was noted by the more experienced among the practitioners, curiosity and intrigue visible on the youngsters' faces.
The two women were soon approached by a man of Heliohapt descent, dressed resplendently in white robes and sandals, his arms decorated with tattoos of different shapes. The man casually straightened the few wrinkles in his robes before greeting them. "It is my honor to welcome you, my Ladies. I am Dias, the Headmaster of Uruk's magical institute." He bowed before Scheherazade, his braid dangling by his side.
"It is a pleasure to meet you, Headmaster."
"I apologize for not greeting you sooner; I was not expecting a visit. I hope our school is to your liking, my Lady."
"It is. I didn't expect to see such a sight in a land other than Magnostatt, given the scale of the Tower."
"We are grateful to our King for granting such a boon upon us. Would you permit me to take you on a tour?"
"It would be appreciated."
Dias smiled and guided them through the hallways and buildings surrounding the great Tower, the trio passing by magicians of different age groups, ranging from adolescents to young adults, in heated debates or conducting experiments while frivolously writing notes.
"What can you tell me about the tower, Headmaster?"
"The tower itself is just the abode of the founder of the institute, master Merlin. Although he doesn't participate in most work, his tutoring has been helpful to some of our most splendid students."
"You seem to know him well."
"I do. I've spent my childhood and much of my adult years traveling with him and His Majesty before Uruk was founded."
Many waved on their way, greeting Dias for the most part, while most kept giving Tomoe looks of reverence and admiration, although the warrior remained unperturbed.
"Is Tomoe popular among the magicians?"
"It is not strictly Her Ladyship. Most of us admire His Majesty's companions, much like the rest of the citizens of Uruk."
The Magi nodded as they returned to the entrance of the institute, scrutinizing the smiling magician further as his eyes lingered on Tomoe for a few brief moments.
"I enjoyed discovering your institute, Headmaster Dias. I wish you the best of luck with your duties."
"It is our pleasure to have your esteemed self as a guest, my Lady. Since this is your first time around the city, I personally recommend visiting the Great Forge around this time of day. I wish you a pleasant day, my Ladies."
"Thank you for your suggestion, Headmaster."
As the two women left, Dias finally let out a sigh of relief, the tension all across his body released. Sensing a familiar presence appearing behind him, the relief morphed into pure frustration as he grabbed the white robes of Merlin and began shaking him senselessly. "Tower Master, you didn't even think to inform me the Magi of Reim was going to visit!? Do you have any idea how terrified I was!?"
"Relax, dear student. Everything turned out well~"
Merlin's response proved to be the wrong one to say. Dias's mounting frustration gave way to violence as he chased after the fleeing magician with the intent of beating some sense into him. Onlookers snickered at the sight; the magicians used to these quarrels and bouts between the serious Headmaster and his carefree mentor.
Scheherazade heard explosions coming from the institute, and she grew concerned. Tomoe assured her it was nothing out of the ordinary, her voice laced with amusement as she only hinted to some sort of troublemaker getting what they deserved.
Moving east of the Tower, Scheherazade noticed the growing number of smithies and craftsmen in their vicinity as they approached a wide open square. Her eyes glanced over the various tools and products, noting their very impressive quality.
The overbearing ringing of steel being hammered and the heat of the forges became palpable as Tomoe guided her to a large, isolated workshop adjacent to an impressive building. The Magi sensed a shift in the Rukh, a familiar presence of a King Vessel drawing her attention to the lone figure working silently on a sickle.
Sparks briefly illuminated the man's wizened, sharp features as he sharpened the blade, tufts of gray amidst his black hair tied in a ponytail. Noticing their presence, the man stood up and approached them, his lean muscles visible under the thin clothes which clung to him due to sweat. "Forgive me for greeting you in such a state, my Ladies," the man smiled at them as he cleaned his tanned face with a towel, allowing Sceherazade to spot the octagram visible on the ring he wore.
"It's alright, Adam. I'm escorting Lady Scheherazade on a tour of the city; she is a guest of his Majesty."
"I see. You are most welcome, my Lady. My name is Adam, an architect as well as a blacksmith of Uruk."
"It is a pleasure to meet you. Headmaster Dias had recommended us to visit this part of the city. Although I'm not well-versed in forging, I found the products around here to be quite impressive."
"I'm honored, my Lady. Allow me to provide you with an assistant to show you around."
It didn't take long for Adam to come back with a young man of similar features, although he was carrying a book with him. The teen calmly assessed Scheherazade and Tomoe before he bowed to them. Adam smiled and patted his shoulder gently. "This is my son, Alexios. He shall answer all your questions and show you around. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to prepare myself as I have a meeting with His Majesty. It was a pleasure to meet you, my Lady."
The trio left and began to explore the area. Alexios remained silent most of the time, answering the Magi's inquiries with grace surprising for someone his age.
All around them, the craftsmen greeted the young boy enthusiastically, many asking about his father. Scheherazade noticed him tensing under their eyes, ever-so-slightly straightening his clothes when he thought no one was looking, or holding his book closer to him. She reached out to him, asking him to guide them away from the crowded area and into a calmer environment.
The young man took them back to his family's home, and went off to bring the ladies some refreshments.
Tomoe seemed to notice the attention Scheherazade gave Alexios's retreating figure. "Adam is well-known as the most famous and competent architect and smith in Uruk. Alexios is conscious of such, and is trying to live up to expectations placed upon him."
Scheherazade silently observed the garden around her, saddened by the pressure placed upon the young man.
Soon enough, Alexios returned with the drinks, the three of them spending a great deal of time talking about many topics, before he escorted them to the exit when he noticed dusk was fast approaching. "I hope you enjoyed yourself, my Lady." Alexios looked nervous still, fearing he might have messed up somewhere without noticing.
Scheherazade chuckled, her voice melodious as she beckoned the boy. He froze when her hand patted his head – a supremely awkward occasion, owing to their height difference – and her encouraging smile was all he got as she retracted her hand and left with Tomoe.
It didn't take the two of them long before they reached the Ziggurat once more, stopping as they passed by the training grounds. They spotted Mu sparring with Leonidas, the two of them locked in a struggle of strength as they grappled and butted heads for dominance. Scheherazade sighed as she saw Myron and the others placing bets with the soldiers of Uruk. However, she thought better than to interfere, seeing Mu's happy grin.
Tomoe soon took her to her room, before she made her exit. Feeling restless still, Scheherazade followed the strong flow of the Rukh to the top of the Ziggurat. She easily found Gilgamesh as the King observed Uruk from a balcony offering a gorgeous view of the land, dyed in the beautiful colors of the sunset.
Stepping beside him, she silently enjoyed the same view, and found herself feeling nostalgic. She could remember a time when she overlooked Reim like so, her precious companion and first King Vessel beside her as he boasted of his dreams with a huge smile on his face. For a few moments, her eyes beheld the past as figures and buildings overlapped, only to fade into the breeze like smoke.
She shook her head, a wave of fatigue making her shoulders sag unexpectedly, as the ethereal figures of dearest friends left one by one akin to falling leaves.
How free and easy was she in the old times?
"Your worries are showing."
A gentle breeze came through the encroaching darkness of the night, washing her musings away. She turned to Gilgamesh, the man's eyes still observing his nation with an unreadable expression. "My apologies, I was reminiscing. The sights and sceneries Uruk showed me brought back good memories."
"My treasures are incomparable; the envy of the world. It is only fitting it would remind others of their best days."
"Tell me, King Gilgamesh, if you had to change something in Uruk, what would it be?"
"Everything."
The Magi found herself taken back by the quick and concise reply. Puzzled by his answer, she decided to inquire further, "As young as your exceptional nation is, its roots are already very deep. Why would you take such a risk?"
Gilgamesh laughed, amused by such a question. His eyes shifted from one landmark to another, the smile on his face bordering on pure arrogance. "I find it amusing for you to assume I would be hampered by such a trifling notion. My kingdom and its people are unparalleled, and as such they should aspire and seek change…" His attention moved to the skies. "...so one day, they can surpass the heavens."
"I see. It is quite ambitious of you." Scheherazade sighed as she took in the King's words, her eyes narrowing at the nation before her. "Then if given the chance to live past your normal lifespan, would you continue to rule them to achieve such a vision?"
He turned to her, a knowing glint flashing in his eyes as he smirked condescendingly at her, trying to hold in his growing amusement. "Why would I do such a thing?" He asked, his words laced with a certain feeling of superiority, as if an adult talking to a child.
"Would you not wish to see your vision come to fruition?"
"I care little if such a thing does not happen in my lifetime. I have little interest in cuddling my people as if they were mere infants; such a thing would be an insult to them, and more importantly, to myself."
"Even if your absence might lead to the destruction of Uruk after your time?"
"Should Uruk's end come, then so be it. All things come to an end, no matter how much you try to cling to them. Even if future mongrels calling themselves rulers do not measure up to the lowest of my people, such far away matters are not my concern. "
Scheherazade frowned in clear disapproval, shaking her head and returning her attention solely on the city for the briefest of moments. "I shall excuse myself, as I need to prepare for the banquet. Thank you for humoring me, Your Majesty."
"Heed my words, priestess: Children eventually must be left to their own devices, to suffer and to rejoice. Averting your eyes from such is nothing but a disservice to those you claim to cherish."
Scheherazade abruptly turned to face Gilgamesh, finding him still overlooking the city without a care. Conflicted, the Magi's grip tightened on her staff as she silently returned to her quarters. Even as she submerged herself in her bath, she couldn't shrug off Gilgamesh's words.
Stepping inside the banquet hall, Scheherazade was immediately struck by the sweet scent of a fragrant incense, mixed with the smell of the wheat ale being distributed by the servants amidst the people. She could see Merlin sitting comfortably between two dancers, while Dias was discussing with Alexios, the young man looking much more enthusiastic than he was earlier in the day.
Leonidas and Adam were standing next to the soldiers as they shared drinks with them, their merry toasts and cheers overcoming the noises of the rest of the people around, leading to a chain reaction of toasts as the rest followed their example.
The servant next to her coughed before he took a deep breath. "Introducing her ladyship, the Magi of the Reim Empire, Lady Scheherazade!" Immediately, she became the center of attention, receiving nods and toasts from most of those she passed by, while others remained attentive to her behavior. Looking over at the throne at the furthest end of the hall, she saw Gilgamesh lazily placing his head on his closed fist as he sat with his legs crossed in complete tranquility.
Sensing her gaze, the King of Uruk opened his eyes slowly and met her stare. She couldn't help but wonder how a human could exude such an air of regality with such little effort, a sigh unknowingly escaping her lips as she nodded and took her seat near him. Noticing the absence of her Fanalis entourage, Scheherazade turned to the king, only for him to speak before she asked her question.
"Your companions failed to contain their curiosity. Ningal decided to humor them." Gilgamesh lazily shifted his sights to the nearby entrance, a sharp glint flashing in his eyes. "They are here."
As if they were waiting for his words, Scheherazade silently watched her entourage entering the hall, led by Mu and Ningal. The king's helper looked radiant with the jewelry adorning her body, her exotic beauty making her the center of attention as she gracefully led Mu and his companions to their Magi. Ningal bowed to her king before she silently moved to stand beside him, while Mu and the rest moved to sit next to their lady.
Upon a closer look, Scheherazade was able to make out a few minute bruises visible on the bodies of her entourage.
Mu guessed the unspoken question his lady was asking, the man chuckling as he flexed his arms, his sister and comrades holding back their groans. "We asked Lady Ningal to show us what she discovered about our race without holding back." Looking towards the veiled woman, Mu appeared conflicted as he helped himself to the ale and delicacies presented to them.
The feast was a quicker affair than Schehrazade expected, Gilgamesh allowing her to leave once the fatigue from her travels and the sightseeing took its toll on her and her companions. Laying on her bed, the Magi couldn't help but recall Gilgamesh's words, her mind growing restless as she tried to banish such needless thoughts.
Unable to calm her mind, Scheherazade sighed and stood up from her bed, moving to sit next to the window. The cool breeze provided some small comfort as she poured herself some water, silently contemplating while gazing at the stars with narrowed eyes. In a single day, Uruk's ruler left her flabbergasted and unsure of how to proceed. She couldn't get a measure of him at all despite her multiple attempts during the feast, his depth growing more unfathomable each time she thought she was beginning to understand him.
Closing her eyes, her mind drifted back to the condescending gaze overlooking the vast, bustling city. She couldn't help the growing desire to know more about the exceptional King Vessel. There was no mistaking such a dominating aura, akin to a mountain bearing down on her.
It was even possible he was a first-class singularity, even though his presence was incomparably more suffocating than the leader of the Seven Seas Alliance.
Meanwhile, the owner of said gaze was standing on his balcony at the top of his fortress, Gilgamesh's eyes also peering across the seas ahead into a land so far away. He smirked once he observed the meeting in the palace of the Kou Empire, feeling amused once the impudent vixen snapped in his direction with a frown on her face as she tried to hold back the snarl threatening to break her mask of innocence. "How hilarious. A mongrel who doesn't understand her place, and a mere specter of the past daring to peer at me." For a moment, his voice carried a hint of anger as his eyes shifted in the direction of Sindria
"Shouldn't we just end them and be done with it?" Kingu's voice was soft as he made his presence known, moving to stand beside Gilgamesh with the same stern glare he always had on his face. "I find this spectacle of yours to be annoying."
"Sometimes, you have to let them earn their worth." Gilgamesh turned to his companion, eyes knowingly focusing on the letter in Kingu's hand.
"Ningal asked me to deliver this to you. It appears the crown prince of Kou seeks an audience. She said there's also a new audience request from Sindria." Kingu's voice betrayed nothing as he handed Gilgamesh the letter, his eyes carefully gauging the ruler's reaction.
Gilgamesh's face remained neutral as he opened the letter and read its content. With a condescending snort, the letter burst to flames and turned to ashes. "It appears the mongrels are growing unruly. How unsightly." Crossing his arms, Gilgamesh continued to stare to the horizon.
Kingu appeared contemplative as he tried to understand what Gilgamesh was thinking, before he shook his head and focused on the matter at hand. "What are you going to do?"
"Quite simple. You shall be heading to Sindria tomorrow to inform the jester and his mongrel friend of our agreement to their visit. I shall task Ushiwakamaru to head to Balbadd along with her adjutant… to do the same with the insolent mongrel of Kou." Gilgamesh turns around to leave, his eyes meeting Kingu's. "I trust Ningal's headed to rest?"
"Why ask a question you already know the answer to?" Kingu's neutral expression broke as a small, amused smirk appeared on his face. He snorted once the king silently left without a word, silently following after him.
The two marched through the Ziggurat's halls, soldiers bowing to them as they patrolled the stronghold along the way. Gilgamesh stopped in front of the library, entering silently once his eyes spotted Ningal's slumbering figure, surrounded by books, tablets and reports. As the two approached her, a golden portal opened near the king and a luxurious blanket was pulled out from it.
"How dare you allow yourself to be in such a state, you buffon?" Gilgamesh's words didn't seem to register to the sleeping woman, the smile on her face causing him to frown.
"She's the same unruly little pup." Kingu's voice lacked the usual coldness, his eyes carrying some warmth as he observed the young Fanalis.
Gently, the king carried the sleeping woman in his arms and to her room, all while ignoring the amused look on his companion's face. Placing her on her bed and carefully removing the veil, Gilgamesh's face remained calm and unperturbed as he left. "Your punishment for making me carry you shall come another time, foolish girl."
Kingu snorted and shook his head, giving one last glance to Ningal before leaving as well. For a brief moment, he entertained the notion of bringing her something from Sindria, but banished the thought the moment he noticed Gilgamesh's knowing smirk.
It was impossible to provide a suitable gift when the bastard could provide her with a better treasure just to spite him. Calming himself, Kingu headed for the nearest window and jumped right out, flying straight for Sindria without looking back.
The son of Tiamat tried his best to ignore the minute sound of the king's laughter as he sped up towards his destination with an annoyed frown on his face.
Omake: Shenanigans in Uruk (Alternative title: Unlucky Magus of Flowers, Uruk Edition)
The day started off rather wonderfully for the King of Heroes. Wonderful enough for even him to turn off his Clairvoyance for the day, just to experience what it had to offer without any filters.
Sitting in his throne room before a group of female magicians, Gilgamesh was having a very rare case of great regret about his decision. He nursed his forehead as he attempted to make heads or tails of his current predicament, his murderous intentions for the smiling magus in the room notwithstanding. "Dias, recount exactly what transpired."
"As you command, Your Highness." Dias awkwardly looked between the group he's leading and the isolated Merlin, Enkidu wrapped around his body and hanging from the ceiling. Any pity in his heart was instantly stamped out when the headmaster felt the foreign sensations from his body. "We were conducting our classes as usual, when an explosion in the tower interrupted our daily routine. An unknown substance leaked out from the explosion, and upon exposure to it, many students have experienced… drastic physiological changes resulting in the reversal of their sexes, as Your Highness can see." Dias motioned to himself, and the rest of his colleagues, before backing off.
Gilgamesh's contenance soured as his eyes shifted to Merlin, the incubus resisting the nervous chuckle which would have probably spelt his imminent demise. "I was conducting an experiment, although I may have miscalculated the dosage for one of the ingredients and unintentionally created an entirely different product from what was intended. I assure you – and everyone else – the effects are temporary and shall most likely pass by the next day." Merlin flinched as the chains binding him tightened uncomfortably, going silent as his explanation was sufficient.
Surprisingly, Gilgamesh did not end Merlin's life. "I shall deal with him. You may leave." The king kept his sights on the Magus of Flowers up until the last person left. Cutting Merlin off before he could speak, Gilgamesh smiled ominously as he stood up. "Look forward to your punishment, incubus." Before Merlin could respond, a mace struck the back of his head, knocking him out cold.
Merlin had no idea how much time had passed, waking up to the overbearing and familiar sweet scent of incense with a frown on his face, as his blurry vision cleared up bit by bit.
"Oh, dear, you are finally awake."
'W-Wha…?' Merlin's words died in his throat as he was greeted with the sight of three extremely macho women surrounding him, in what looked to be a room of a brothel. His face turned pale as he struggled to speak, his eyes widening once he realized someone had put a silencing spell on him.
"Quite the shy one, isn't he?"
"His Majesty was right; he is completely inexperienced."
Merlin could only attempt to scream in vain as the ladies closed in on him, their laughter terrifying him all the more to the caster.
Meanwhile, Gilgamesh inexplicably smiled as he took a sip of wine while relaxing in his garden, his day back to its earlier wonderful state. The screams of the incubus became a melody, energizing him far better than any elixir in his treasury.
Just another day in Uruk.
Thank you for reading. Have a nice day and stay safe.