I am still alive! This chapter took a while to finish since there was a lot that I needed to research and there's my own private life. Anyway, thank you very much for your patience. I also would like to thank a special friend who has helped me a lot with this chapter. I have no idea when the next chapter will be out since I'm gonna be very busy in a few days. So I hope this chapter will keep you at least satisfied for a while.
And for those of you who are interested, I made a discord channel for those looking for a cosy place to enjoy their passions with other people without the fear of getting immature messages. You can use the link below.
discord . g g / pXAcK8zwts
Inanna's temple was still as striking and beautiful as the first time she laid eyes upon the building. Maybe even more so under the sunlight. Led by the temple priestesses, Arturia and Gilgamesh proceeded into the sacred sanctuary to ready themselves for the rite. They parted ways for their respective preparations, only to reunite before the imposing doors that likely concealed the altar where they were to offer their respects.
Arturia wondered about the intention behind all the customs and rules. She was certain Britain didn't have that many.
The couple met eye to eye. Gilgamesh raised his hand and Arturia took it with no hesitation. No words were exchanged as they made their way into the room. It was dimly lit, with a strong, yet serene scent wafted in the room. There was a large statue depicting a woman-possibly the patron goddess she was informed of- decorated in the most lush flowers of all colours she could imagine. There was a small table in front of the altar filled with food, drinks and many gifts, such as weapons, shields, jewels and flowers. She assumed they were offerings meant for the goddess.
She watched as Gilgamesh approached the statue. There was an obvious frown of disgust present in his expression, but she did not enquire and merely waited until he had wrapped up whatever silent prayer, curse or thought occupying his mind.
"Uruk's patron goddess Ishtar governs over war, love and fertility." he explained, "It is tradition for newlywedded to pay respect to her. While mere formality, these measly gifts should keep her quiet for a while."
Arturia blinked and slowly gazed back at the offerings. Somehow, she felt that he knew this Goddess and not just as the city's patron goddess. But there was no need for her to pry. She was not interested in whatever Gilgamesh had experienced in the past.
The man took her hands and gently pulled her towards the statue. She watched as he lifted her hands to his lips and kissed her knuckles. She felt her body twitch in aversion, yet she did not move an inch. Instead, she closed her eyes and took a deep breath. Ninsun's words echoed in her mind. Once she was able to calm her mind she opened her eyes again and closed the distance between them.
On her tiptoes, she pulled Gilgamesh's face closer to hers. It was a short moment, but enough to see his usual facade drop for a moment as puzzlement took over.
"I honour my words, thus I will cooperate within my capabilities." Her tone was as clear as her mind.
A hearty laugh resonated in the room. "You are my wife, and you shall enjoy all the privileges and luxuries that come with your position. Come there is one last task to fulfil before we are to return to the palace."
They left the room of worship to the lower floor of the ziggurat, the room they entered was mainly empty, aside from a large clay tablet and braziers. Upon closer inspection, Arturia saw names engraved on it.
"This is where the records of marriages of Uruk's rulers are retained. While it is usually kept in the palace archives before the marriage ceremony the tablet is temporarily moved to the temple of Eanna until the couple has paid their respects to the patron goddess." He held out his hand and a golden tool appeared from the same golden portal she recalled seeing before.
"Are you adept in magic?" She blurted out the question when he began to carve his name on the tablet.
His actions halted for a short while as he glanced back at her and laughed. "That was not magic, but the mechanics of my treasury; the Gate of Babylon. I can summon anything I have stored in there."
The woman vaguely recalled their first-night outing through the city. He pulled out a cloth she did not recall seeing on him before and he did boast often about his immense wealth. "Then, what kinds of valuables do you keep there?"
"Only humanity's greatest treasures."
Arturia stayed silent as the sound of carving continued to reverberate in the room. What did he mean by 'humanity's greatest treasures'? "Such as?" she finally cut through the silence.
"The finest jewels, and cloths," Gilgamesh answered, "the first inventions made and of course beer and wine."
"Beer and wine?" Arturia repeated.
"Naturally, the most exceptional."
"Uruk's best?"
"From all of human civilisation."
She could not help but blink. "You send your retainers to the furthest corner of the world, to collect wine and beer or anything else that suits your fancy?"
"That would be a waste of time. Mongrels can't even distinguish what is truly valuable. Though some of my treasures have been tributed to me by dignitaries, representatives and merchants. At this point, my wealth has grown so much that I cannot count or recall everything that I have stored and in the future, even more treasures will be added."
"Is that even necessary? If you possess more than enough wealth? What need is there to hunger for more?"
Gilgamesh looked at her again, his peering eyes observed her as he did not understand her words. "It is not a need, just as breathing and eating comes to you naturally so do I store every treasure in existence. Whether it be from the past, present or future. All of it is mine to possess."
And just when she thought he was starting to make sense, she lost that tiny piece of comprehension. Then again, he did drag her out of her time and country. As ridiculous as it sounded, he made the impossible, possible.
The subject was dropped and for the next minutes, Arturia watched as her husband finished carving their names on the tablet. She recognised the cuneiform from her classes with Enkidu.
The list was surprisingly short in her opinion. "Are these all the rulers since Uruk's founding?" She wondered aloud.
"While there have been other kings in the past, the seat of kingship was given to other cities. Each city keeps their personal records regarding their king's marriages. Uruk was officially founded during Enmerkar's reign, his father Meshkiangasher was the first king who ruled over the lands that would become Uruk." Gilgamesh explained.
Arturia frowned, "Is that so? Enkidu never mentioned Uruk's history."
"They do not find importance in the past and thus it comes as no surprise to me that it's never been brought up."
"Do you agree with that belief?"
Gilgamesh came to stand next to her, his gaze was directed on the list. "The past sets the foundation for humanity's future development. If there is no past then how can those mongrels progress and learn from their predecessors' shortcomings?"
A rare silence permitted between them before the king continued with his story. "Enmerkar and his predecessor reigned for 420 and 324 years respectively. While his successor Lugalbandha, the shepherd ruled for 1200 years and the fisherman Dumuzid ruled for 100 years."
"Twelve hundred years?!" Arturia gasped. While Enmerkar and Meshkiangasher ruled impossibly long in her opinion, for a king to rule for over a thousand years, how did he even stay alive for such a long time?!
Gilgamesh laughed at her reaction, "his rule lasted long. However, he had to thank his consort for his longevity."
The man was surely toying with her. Why else would he answer in such a roundabout manner? "I assume being married to a goddess would come with privileges." The woman muttered nonchalantly.
"Oh, so you paid attention." Gilgamesh raised his eyebrow, but her attitude was far from insulting. Instead, he felt proud.
"I was told that the goddess Rhimat Ninsun was the consort to Lugalbanda one of Uruk's previous kings." She eyed the tablet where Lugalbanda's name along with his consort's was engraved. "Of course, it's obvious that he is your father. But what I do not understand is how you did not succeed him after his reign."
"Kingship is assigned by the gods. While usually one's kingship ends with the passing of the king, in the case of Lugalbanda it was slightly different. While the gods had decreed that his offspring would follow in his rule the children sired during his rule did not outlive him."
Arturia was not sure how to respond, a part of her wanted to apologise for bringing up the subject, but from how she heard Gilgamesh speak, it appeared as if he was merely retelling a tale. "Was... Dumuzid a proxy, then?" She asked.
"He was not," the man replied, "his rule was as legitimate as the kings before him. As you know, gods are fickle beings, but at least they contain some intelligence."
Arturia wondered how he could insult his gods so openly, at their own dwelling no less and get away with it.
"... their plan was to create the ultimate king to rule over the humans; a lynchpin. One who was more divine than man. Thus I was born as Dumizid's reign was nearing its end."
"I see," was the only response Arturia could utter.
A lot of the information was difficult to process. She still could not comprehend the longevity of the Sumerian kings... did that mean that Gilgamesh was also expected to rule as long? She didn't want to ponder more over those thoughts as she felt that it would give her a headache. Tolerating Gilgamesh for 400 years would be an impossible task for her. She had to return to Britain.
Her eyes hovered over the list again, from Meshkiangasher and his consort to Lugalbanda and the goddess Ninsum, to finally Gilgamesh and her name. She wondered how would Merlin and Kay react if they knew... that somewhere in the world her name was recorded as the wife of an ancient king... while her young foolish self was milking cows, brushing horses and getting in pointless fights and pranks with her brother.
As they made a return to the palace, Arturia could only think of her homeland and family.
The guests arrived not long after their return and soon the palace became bustled with priests, servants, elders and representatives from the other city-states. Noblemen were boasting their wealth with attires and the many jewels they wore. While at first glance the clothes all seemed similar to her, the tiny differences such as the woven patterns and accessories that tied their robes together or the way their hair was styled proved the opposite of her assumptions.
"Eridu's nobility often dress in darker colours. They have developed a technique where they use dyed thin wood fibers which they weave into their clothes. They imbed various jewels or metals. Unlike the wood from the Cedar forest, the trees near Ur and Eridu are more flexible, which makes it ideal to use in more creative manners, such as accessories."
Arturia looked at the speaker, the high priest who oversaw the wedding. He was an elderly man with gentle eyes. For the short period they had spoken, she found herself growing fond of him. He was kind and wise and she found herself engrossed in their conversation. "You speak with such vigour and knowledge, lord Namkuzu. Are you interested in garments?"
Namkuzu let out a hearty laugh, "Oh, heavens no. My wife would not even allow me to choose my garbs, were I not a servant of her grace." the man turned to the people present in their vicinity. "No, what I admire is craftmanship. The ideas and skills the people use to create such beautiful things. In my younger years, I often snuck out to visit the other city-states and admire their creations." The man chuckled as he reminisced over his past, "Of course, I was heavily punished for my rebellious attitude. Despite my father's protests and punishments, my mother secretly bought me many presents from travelling merchants. While she did not approve of me sneaking out, she admired my passion and curiosity."
His cheery demeanour brought a smile to her face, "She must have loved you with all her heart."
"My mother was a wonderful woman, even my father had trouble declining her requests." The man glanced at the entrance, where he observed the servants working and spotted Enkidu leisurely passing through.
"It is time that I see myself to my duties." the man declared. It was a pleasure speaking with you, Your Majesty. And please do not be so formal with me. You are the lady of Sumer and his majesty's consort. If he were to hear you address me so highly, he might assume I am making light of you."
"If he dares to make such a foolish assumption then I will confront him on your behalf." Arturia scoffed, "You have done nothing— but given me the utmost respect and courtesy."
Namkuzu chuckled, "You truly have the heart of a warrior. I can see why his majesty is so fond of you." With a courteous offer, he excused himself, leaving Arturia with warm wishes for her future.
As Namkuzu departed, a playful voice interjected, its mirth evident, "You'll confront your husband on behalf of an old man?"
Though Arturia wasn't looking at him directly, she felt the weight of Gilgamesh's gaze upon her.
"Is it a mere habit or do you find enjoyment in belittling others?" she stated more than asked, then finally turned towards him and held his gaze with her own.
Gilgamesh furrowed his brows, "Enjoyment?" he repeated, before letting out a laugh, "Does a child not laugh when their kin trips on the ground?" He took a step forward, "Would a man not howl as they witness their friend after a foolish error?" and another, "By all means, I invite you to confront me and defend Namkuzu for his nonexistent mistake." Until he was right in front of her, neither breaking eye contact the entire time.
By now his voice was loud and clear. She let him be. Her answer was mainly to reassure the kind priest of his fears. "I haven't seen Siduri since our return," Arturia commented after being certain that Gilgamesh had calmed down.
"She had to confirm the attendance of the dignitaries." his gaze briefly shifted to the passing servants as he spoke, "there have been a few matters that needed to be resolved. Nothing too trivial." His eyes were on her again; a pleasing smile formed as he observed her form.
She was dressed in a sleeveless emerald-green gown, a second thin white garment fell over the previous one; showing the outline of her arms in the sleeves and her figure. Her hair was traditionally tied with various accessories. A golden necklace hang around her neck, adorned with emeralds and rubies. For her wrists and arms, she was given various bracelets. "Even the most brilliant of jewels, or alluring flower would not be able to match to your radiance."
She paid no mind to his attention nor his words. Arturia observed the many guests, remembering her conversation from before she looked over the many accessories the guests wore; their shapes, types of stones, and embroidery on the clothes; each distinguished from their respective city and trends. Her gaze rested fleetingly on the gown she was given to wear, then she swiftly took a glance at Gilgamesh. His clothes were mainly red, adorned with matching stones.
"Jewels are a sign of authority, while simultaneously they are often compared the one's eyes," the king suddenly mentioned, "Depending on the individual they can shine brighter than anything and captivate whoever lays eyes upon them." his gaze shifted from the many jewelry Arturia wore to her eyes "However, no matter how priceless a jewel may be, it can never reflect one's soul."
She eyed him quizzingly, her words did not form as she was trying to answer the man.
Gilgamesh took her hand in his, leading her into the throne room where the guests eagerly awaited their arrival. Fleetingly, her gaze caught the sight of fabric draping the sovereign seats. Unfortunately, there was no opportunity to linger on the vision as a gentle touch found her knuckles, lips brushing them tenderly. The murmur of voices among the guests dwindled as Gilgamesh called upon his priest. Swiftly, the attendants responded, offering their greetings and efficiently unveiling the thrones by removing the covering fabric.
Silence enveloped the witnesses as they silently revered the unfolding scene. Like the others, Arturia beheld the thrones with a sense of bewilderment. In contrast to the ornate thrones of Britain, those in Mesopotamia boasted a simpler design. Yet, undeniable craftsmanship was evident, a testament to the finest artisans and the use of premium materials. The thrones gleamed with fine gold and, Arturia assumed, lapis lazuli finely powdered and applied to the seats. Luxurious silks and linen adorned the seating, ensuring a regal comfort for the soon-to-be occupants.
As the couple seated themselves, a man approached with a humble bow. He bore the weight of age, visible in the faint wrinkles that caught her eye. His neat and colourful robe betrayed nothing of his youth. This was Ishum, the king's chamberlain. Though Arturia had glimpsed him often since her arrival, their interactions had been limited. The man, reputed for his wisdom and dedication, had earned the respect of many.
"To the esteemed lords and distinguished delegates, I extend my heartfelt welcome to the magnificent city of Uruk!" The man rose, commanding the attention of the gathering, and addressed the crowd with a resonant voice. "It has been many suns since we witnessed a gathering of such grandeur. The heavens themselves seem to rejoice, for, in a momentous event marking the passage of time, his majesty has chosen his queen! With great honour and joy, I proudly declare the presence of her grace, Arturia! To pay respect to Her Majesty, you will follow the traditional procedures. Let this occasion be marked not only by celebration but by the dignity befitting such a historic union!"
She felt many eyes on her; curiosity, deference, or perhaps animosity or belittlement. She could not guarantee the answer as their thoughts were hidden behind a mask of formalities. However the intentions, those gazes held for her, she stayed calm and observed them with equal patience and scrupulous as they had on her.
Individually, the guests approached the pair, extending their congratulations, praises, and gifts crafted for the couple. And each time Arturia did not break eye contact with anyone; her gaze was firm, but her voice was polite and welcoming. As she was told to act.
Among the crowd, one man effortlessly stood out with his impressive and commanding presence. Clad in a white tunic adorned with a dark yellow sash and a loose dark-blue robe, his firm stature conveyed an air of authority. Neatly combed, his beard was split and secured by three golden bands, and though his dark locks bore slight signs of ageing, they added to his distinguished demeanour. The man approached, gracefully kneeling before them.
"Akurgal of Babylon greets the sovereigns of Uruk and congratulates your majesties on your matrimony," he proclaimed. "I bring the richest scents of perfume and oils, accompanied by the most exquisite poems from Babylon, lauded and coveted by many across the lands."
"Ah, yes, I remember how often you praised your city's literature," Gilgamesh remarked leisurely. "I guess it cannot hurt to shower my wife in tales of love proclamations and cover her body in the most luscious of oils." He flashed a white smile as his eyes shifted to Arturia.
Suppressing any indication of distaste, Arturia gnashed her teeth. "Surely you jest," she answered when she regained control over her temper, "...mother would be heartbroken if you do not allow me to spend some time with her too."
A mirthful laugh escaped Akurgal's lips. "I've already heard whispers about the queen, yet to imagine she has already captured the heart of the divine Ninsun! Our great king indeed knows how to choose his woman—charming and in possession of beauty unattainable for the common man." He turned towards Artoria, a genuine smile gracing his features. "Your grace, may Marduk bless your union! May your fairness be admired, envied, and praised over all of Ki-en-Gir!"
"Thank you for your kind words," Arturia responded, flashing a courteous smile to the man, "I hope your stay will be pleasant."
Akurgal executed a graceful bow before regally retreating to his designated place amidst the guests.
As more guests approached to offer their heartfelt salutations and gifts, Arturia stole a brief glance at Gilgamesh by her side. His demeanour betrayed no hint of admiration for the offerings; instead, he merely acknowledged their words with a comment or two.
"Glory to your Majesties, Alulim of Eridu extends a warm welcome to the new Eresh," announced the man who stepped forward, his advanced age evident in the lines etched upon his weathered—yet stern visage. His long locks cascaded elegantly behind him, bound by a finely woven band, while his neatly trimmed beard lent an air of wisdom and authority. The man was draped in a dark robe adorned with hues of green and black, he bore an array of colourful and golden trinkets upon his attire, reminiscent of Arturia's recent conversation with the head priest.
"I present to you our most delectable fruits and distinctive artistry," the man proclaimed, signalling to his young attendant who promptly approached carrying a covered object. A pungent scent wafted through the air, reaching even the elevated thrones, causing Arturia to suppress a reflexive urge to gag. From her periphery, she could discern a disapproving grunt emanating from Gilgamesh.
"Not long ago, I had the pleasure of encountering a foreign merchant who introduced me to the most extraordinary produce I have ever beheld," the man continued, his voice tinged with reverence. "It possesses a distinguished scent that only the most courageous souls may endure, coupled with an indescribable flavour that surpasses any other fruit. It is hailed as the king among fruits and deemed worthy as an offering fit for the lugal and his bride."
Alulim's attendant unveiled the fruit, eliciting gasps of astonishment from the entire audience. Wrapped in a thick yellow-brown shell adorned with intimidating spikes, the fruit resembled a round sphere, its size comparable to that of a small dog.
"And pray tell, does this 'king among fruits' bear any other title?" Gilgamesh interjected, his expression sceptical as he eyed the exotic offering.
"It is known as a Durian," Alulim replied confidently.
The king rose from his throne, his curiosity piqued, and approached the young attendant who immediately knelt upon noticing the monarch's advance. With a discerning gaze, Gilgamesh scrutinized the offering, a faint frown appearing in response to the potent odour emanating from the fruit. After a moment, he redirected his attention to the lord of Eridu.
"Throughout the feast, I shall assess whether your bestowal truly merits its renowned reputation," he declared.
"The Lugal's magnanimity knows no bounds," responded Eridu's king with a deep sense of appreciation.
Gilgamesh returned to his seat and permitted Alulim and his entourage to do the same.
The next delegates approached—a small group of acolytes led by an elderly man adorned in a flowing white robe accentuated with soft hues of yellow and gold. A brown sash cinching his noble attire. He knelt before Gilgamesh, his acolytes following suit in reverence.
"Oh, great lugal, I Biluda of Kullab, humble retainer to the holy Rhimat-Ninsun, has no words to express the joy brimming in my heart after hearing of your union," the elderly man began, his voice resonating with reverence. "The eresh's beauty far surpasses the hearsay across the lands—a match truly befitting our noble king. While no gift can rival your greatness, we present the best livestock and produce as tokens of our esteem: cattle, goats, sheep, our finest honey produce, figs, dates and on her Holiness the Great Ninsun's request, a newly brewed beer and wine which hopefully will suit your majesty's palate."
Gilgamesh briefly scanned the gifts, "While your dedication to my mother is commendable, there is no need to state the obvious," his tone lacklustre as his attention returned to the group of acolytes. "Very well, I'll have the slaves serve it for this occasion."
"I am forever grateful your majesty," Biluda bowed deeply before turning his gaze to Arturia, a bright smile lightening up his weathered features, "May your presence not only illuminate the lugal but also bestow prosperity upon Uruk and all of Ki-En-Gir. This humble servant wishes you all the happiness and glory for there is no better husband than our mighty king."
Arturia's tight gaze slackened, taken aback by the sheer sincerity of the priest, "You are kind... mother must be very fortunate to have you."
Tears welled in Biluda's eyes, he began to sniffle as he could not contain his emotions. Arturia hastily glanced at Gilgamesh, panic gripping her gaze as the acolytes silently guided their leader back to their place. The man merely sighed; clearly, these outbursts were not uncommon.
As the last guests came forward to convey their greetings, a slave quietly approached Ishum, who lent his ear as the slave delivered the message. Nodding in acceptance, Ishum approached his lord. "It appears that the lord of Kish was not able to attend personally due to a family matter. He has sent a proxy to represent him." Arturia heard him speak softly.
Gilgamesh contemplated for a moment before responding, "I wondered what action he would take, but to think my generosity is being answered with ingratitude. Regardless, I will accept whatever reasons the mongrel offers."
Ishum nodded before returning to his post as the lugal shifted his attention to the attendees. "Shamash has already reached the height of his journey, let us partake in drinks, music and meals!"
The room erupted in cheers as Gilgamesh made his declaration. Relief washed through Arturia, signalling the end of a long and arduous day. Yet, beneath the surface, tension still lingered, casting a shadow of uncertainty. Silently, she prayed for a smooth passage through the night, hoping to dispel the remaining unease.
Contrary to her fears, the celebration proceeded smoothly. The lords and their entourage enjoyed their meals and engaged in light-hearted conversations. From the corner of her eye, Arturia noticed the priest Biluda emotionally sharing a tale from his youth, while Namkuzu merrily at a joke told by one of his conversation partners.
Unlike the feast of the previous day, she felt calmer; liberated from the sense of injustice and irritation that had plagued her since her arrival. Grateful for Ninsun's encouragement and advice, she picked up her cup; it was poured with the offering of Kullab's delegates. A sweet, yet slightly sharp aroma wafted from it, enticing her to take a sip. However, her contemplation was interrupted by a gaze fixated upon her.
"Is there something on your mind, Your Majesty?" she inquired, deciding to engage in conversation as they were in public.
A subtle smile graced his lips as he replied, "What else could occupy my thoughts but the vision of my beloved wife savouring the drink she'd been offered; her delicate lips caressing the cool metal as the sweet nectar trickles down her throat? It stirs within me an appetite for the luscious juices concealed within the fruit."
Arturia set her cup down, a frown knitting her brows. Her cheeks flushed at e his boldness. "Such discussions should be held in private, not in front of the guests."
Gilgamesh chuckled at her answer, "Your shyness is equally delightful. There is no need for bashfulness between spouses. Now, come and shower your husband with your love."
Her attention shifted between her drink and the man next to her, pondering if she should choose personal comfort or indulging his charade. She knew there were eyes on them— the clever bastard taking advantage of the situation.
Arturia straightened her back and turned to the man. Slowly her hands reached for his face, pulling him closer before whispering, "Do not forget that your mother was the one who said that there was no need to rush." She then closed the gap between them, her kiss chaste yet gentle, refusing to humour his antics further.
Gilgamesh however, had other plans. Arturia suddenly felt something small and sweet gently being pushed between her teeth into her mouth. His tongue sensually brushed over hers as he transferred the treat to her.
Breaking away, Arturia was left stunned by his audacity. She chewed on the outer layer of the fruit, its sweet softness filling her mouth.
"You enjoy them quite a lot, do you not?" Gilgamesh remarked, "Enkidu has brought you a lot of dates since your arrival."
No words formed in her mind as she listened to the man. Despite the multitude of thoughts racing through her, she detected no sarcasm, nor ridicule in his tone. "Ah, yes. Thank you very much," she mumbled after swallowing the fruit.
"Such a lovely display of affection," Akurgal interjected, his voice slightly inebriated from the alcohol. "Now where would our lugal have found such an exquisite beauty? It certainly must be a marvellous story, surely to be heard for the ears of many."
Gilgamesh picked up his drink, savoured it and placed it back in its place, "My flower hails from a garden far beyond the reach of common man. Unique in her own right and of course it is only reasonable that I claimed her beauty."
Akurgal let out a hearty laugh, "Nothing less of course. Now what stories does her grace have to share? I am curious about the many mysteries hidden in your lands."
Arturia contemplated, bread in hand as she sampled the food.
"It's cold..." she began, reminiscing about her days back in Britain, "rain falls throughout the year. Half the time, our days are dark and short, our rivers freeze and rain becomes solid. Farmers cannot work in their fields and only tend to their cattle. Our roads become treacherous, making it easier for bandits to ambush their victims. The other half of the year, the sun emerges, melting our rivers and roads, bringing harvests and warm, bright days. Animals awake from their long slumber. The streets fill with life as children play, husbands provide and wives support their families."
She and Kay always competed to see who was the fastest.
"Our borders are terrorised by outsiders. Upcountry, many nobles are warring between themselves while our lands are still recovering from the wars of the past."
Britain was a broken land, one that needed salvation. But as broken as it was, it was her beloved home. And she would do anything to protect it. That was the fate she was given, it was the fate she accepted. It was why she had trained so much, travelled, fought. She was prepared to take this bloody path, and yet...
The faint sting in her hands snapped her out of her thoughts. She loosened her grip and cleared her throat. "You may like it or perhaps not. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, after all."
"What wise words!" The lord's jovial laughter rang through the room. He rose from his seat, capturing the attention of all the guests. "I would like to bring a toast! We are all gathered for a moment that will come only once in a lifetime! For the lugal and his eresh! I sense that we can expect many developments in the future!"
The guests cheered and raised their glasses along with Akurgal in their half-inebriated state.
While the scene still felt foreign to Arturia, she couldn't help but reveal a tiny smile.
Amidst the joy and chants one of the city elders made their approach and humbly kneeled. "Greetings oh great lugal, never would have any of us elders imagined that the heavens bless us with this day. This certainly will bring many graces for the future of the people. However, it is also important to maintain peaceful relations and alliances. I request that you do not neglect those obligations either. As delicious as the nectar from an exotic flower may be, it will not be able to measure to the familiarity and advantages of one's own soil."
Arturia wasn't certain why, but she felt her expression stiffen as the man continued to speak. A strange knot curled around her insides, hardening her expression. She didn't understand the man's words, but they sounded like he was ridiculing her.
"This year has given us many beautiful blossoms that will certainly catch the fancy of ma—!"
Before Arturia could interrupt him and enquire about his intentions, a cold breeze flew past her cheek. It happened in an instant and for the briefest of moments, a flicker of shock danced in Arturia's eyes, only to swiftly transform into steely resolve.
The man could only groan before he collapsed, unaware of what had transpired as his body lay impaled with various weapons, like a twisted sense of art.
The suspicion she felt from the man's words had completely evaporated. No reaction came from the delegates and other guests, only stares and exchange of glances between neighbours. Her fingers tightened around the smoothness of the fauteuil, her gaze locking onto the man seated beside her. Like a connoisseur unimpressed by a tired theatrical performance, he regarded the lifeless form before him with unwavering composure, as if it were merely another scene in the grand drama of his existence.
"It seems the slaves were unable to properly clean up the premises." His voice was calm, unlike the scene in front of them, "We will continue the festivities tomorrow; until then, everyone is dismissed."