Review Responses:
SentinalSlice- I'm glad to hear you enjoyed the reunion, it was one of my favorite scenes to write in this story so far. As for your questions— Shiro hasn't met up with Morgan yet, which is why he's traversing down through Albion's Tomb. As for Avalon, as Morgan is not Artoria, its abilities won't be active. At most, Shiro will get some slightly above average healing, but nothing fantastical.
Wizardwolf 1020- Very early on in the story development process, I did consider having Richard be Midoriya's Servant. However, I ultimately thought Jiro would be a better match for him. As for why Nobunaga is Midoriya's, I'll let future chapters explore and answer that question.
Thank you to everyone who Favorited, Followed, or Reviewed. Enjoy the chapter!
Disclaimer: I do not own My Hero Academia or any Fate works, and they are the properties of their respective creators.
Summoner's Banquet IV: The First Epic
The Steppes, Mesopotamia
A Long, Long Time Ago…
Shambling through the wilds of Mesopotamia, the being known as Enkidu came across a small water hole. It was a quiet place, and the chirping of birds was peaceful to the earthen construct.
There was a second being at the watering hole, some sort of fleshy, mostly hairless creature Enkidu had never seen up close before.
Turning towards the new arrival, the creature spoke, its voice a strange and unclear melody.
"Oh my… you must be the one Lord Anu spoke of. The child of clay."
The creature, the human woman, was the third voice Enkidu had ever heard.
Crafted by the god Anu and the goddess Aruru, the living mass of earth was sent from the heavens as an enforcer. Gilgamesh, the child of the mortal Lugalbanda and the goddess Rimat-Ninsun, had grown complacent and arrogant. The demigod, one of the few spared from Sefar's wrath, was intended to be a binding agent, linking the worlds of Gods and Men. But Gilgamesh had been blinded by his own power and had abandoned his sacred mission. Punishment was necessary.
For that very task, the gods created Enkidu. Despite the superb power granted to it, neither Anu nor Aruru could grant the clay-formed being a soul. Without a spark of human existence to guide it, Enkidu lived alongside the animals of the land.
The gods had hoped Huwawa, their experiment of a "complete human", might help ensure Enkidu's development. However, despite a soul forming within the clod of mud, Huwawa lacked the ability to temper it. As it stood, Enkidu and Gilgamesh would never come to clash.
But Anu had one last plan. Appearing before Shamhat, the most beautiful of Uruk's sacred prostitutes, he tasked her with a vital mission. Shamhat was to live alongside Enkidu and complete its soul with the blessings of civilization.
The other gods had doubted Anu's strategy… but it worked. In a mere six days, the clay puppet had learned the ways of humanity. At last, it would speak the words of man.
"Now then, let us try this again. My name is Shamhat, and your name is…"
During its first two tries, the clod of mud could say nothing. But in a spark of inspiration, its lumbering golem-like form began to morph and change. In its first transfiguration, Enkidu emulated the only person it knew.
To the sacred prostitute's surprise, she now was face to face with herself. There were slight differences, such as the other "her" lacking any form of sexual organs, but Enkidu still managed to replicate Shamhat's transcendent beauty.
With a pure and harmonious voice, the clod of earth replied, at last speaking their own name.
"Enkidu. My name… Enkidu."
In that instant, it was as though a great flood had descended upon the child of the heavens. A deluge of information filled Enkidu's mind, and for the first time, they properly understood their origin and purpose.
They were the Chains of Heaven. A creation of Anu and Aruru. For the sake of the gods, they would travel to the city of Uruk— and bring the keystone of the gods back into the heavenly mold.
Chūbu-Sangaku National Park, Chubu
Day 5, Morning
As he moved another spoonful of soup to his lips, Sigma watched a squirrel run past his leg.
The squirrel was the latest addition to the growing cavalcade of woodland creatures gathering around Sigma's Servant, Enkidu.
Although one of Enkidu's hands was preoccupied with petting a deer's head, the Servant happily offered their second hand to the squirrel. Even with a goshawk perched on Lancer's shoulder, the squirrel happily jumped into the Servant's open palm.
Bringing the squirrel to eye level, Enkidu gave it a warm smile.
"Hello there. Have you come to visit me as well?"
The squirrel squeaked, and Sigma could only guess what Enkidu was hearing.
Returning to his soup, Sigma continued with his scavenged meal. He had a wallet full of Yen and could easily acquire money via illicit magecraft, but his Servant seemed to have an aversion to cities.
After allowing Sigma to buy some basic camping supplies, Enkidu led him into the forests of Japan's third-largest national park.
'I'm either going to have to go back and buy more supplies, or go hunting. The supplies I bought will only last me five days if I don't ration.'
To be honest, he could just go and buy stuff on his own. The one trouble was his current location was deep in the wilderness. If he wanted to travel, he'd have to get his Servant's assistance. They wouldn't accompany him into the city, that was certain. But, then again, Enkidu had already done that, just a day and a half ago.
'I wasn't able to get proper intel from where Lancer had left me on the coastline. If I'm going to survive, I'm going to need a better understanding of my situation. Especially if the battles are going to be on this scale.'
Seto, Aichi Prefecture
Two Days Ago…
In any normal circumstance, no human could hope to summon Enkidu, much less without a single catalyst to their name.
But the situation within Olkoth's World Egg was egregious. In the brief instant of the Grail's transport, information was exchanged between this world and the proper one.
Translating the cry for help, the forces of balance responded accordingly. By generating an imaginary catalyst that would ensure the summoning of Enkidu, the world would be able to mitigate the presence of numerous Anti-World Noble Phantasms. A few rogue elements slipped through in the process, but that had been an oversight of the transport mechanism. It was unfortunate that a Dead Apostle Ancestor and the King of Heroes had been among them, but hope was not lost.
Enkidu had been delivered to the world successfully. For a Master, the Grail selected the most compatible option— Sigma. As a human who had lived the majority of his life as a tool, he most closely aligned with a Noble Phantasm of the Sumerian Gods.
Coming down in a flash of light, the Heroic Spirit Enkidu manifested. Although they could feel this was not the "proper" Earth, they would still fulfill their task.
With a smile, Enkidu spoke, "Are you the one who summoned me?"
Seeing the black-haired boy nod, Enkidu's smile grew. They never expected to be summoned as the Servant of a human, but the multiverse was always full of surprises.
"Wonderful. I am a Servant of the Lancer class. My true name is Enkidu. May I have your name, Master?"
The boy, shaken from his surprised state, emotionlessly answered, "My name is Sigma."
"Sigma… I see. You have been through a lot, I can tell."
The boy was momentarily caught off guard but recollected himself. Of course Enkidu knew of his past. The Dream Cycle affected each Master and Servant differently, and evidently, Enkidu witnessed his upbringing.
Indeed, that is what had occurred. Enkidu, through their link to Sigma, saw the boy's ill-fated past. It was a sorrowful sight, watching him and twenty-three other children be subjected to magical experiments, and then put to work as soldiers. Any sort of hesitancy Enkidu might have had in being Sigma's Servant vanished after seeing his upbringing.
They resolved to help this boy, who in many ways reminded them of Huwawa, a conglomeration of 2,891 childrens' souls forced together by the gods.
Enkidu never knew how to save their first friend and ultimately helped Gilgamesh put the guardian of the Cedar Forest down. But unlike Huwawa, Enkidu vowed to help Sigma find a new purpose.
The young man nodded, confiding in someone for the first time, "Yes— yes I have."
"Then, worry not, Master. As your Servant, I vow to help you find a new purpose. Now… what shall we do now? I sense several odd presences— hmmm?"
Enkidu's calm expression shifted as they looked southwards, muttering softly, "Is that… you?"
As Sigma watched with bewilderment, Enkidu chuckled to themself, "So you are here too, Gil? What an odd coincidence this is."
Turning to their summoner, Enkidu knelt, "Master… I have sensed the presence of my dearest friend."
Sigma wasn't well-versed in myth or folklore. His primary experience with them was through media productions like Monty Python and the Holy Grail. He didn't even recognize Lancer's true name. But Sigma was not the type to refuse, so he nodded. Enkidu, perhaps sensing his lack of consideration before answering, frowned slightly.
"I cannot meet him here though… our festivities would bring ruin to this city. Master, I apologize for this momentary discomfort."
Suddenly, Lancer shot forward, grabbing Sigma before he could blink. Then, like a beam of light, Enkidu raced across the land. The trees and cities passed in minutes. When they slowed down, Sigma noticed they were at a forested coastline. He stumbled over to the nearest tree and expelled the contents of his stomach. Even with his magically enhanced body, the amount of force he had experienced was more than he could handle.
Enkidu bowed, "I apologize for the unsettling speed Master, but I will need to get going to my battle. I do not want you hurt, so I am going to leave you here for now."
Sigma said nothing, which Enkidu took as permission to depart. With a thought from the Lancer-class Servant, the trees around Sigma began to grow and curl around him.
"I will do this, just as a precaution. It would be unfortunate if you were injured from being in the splash zone."
Sigma could feel the mana in the branches that surrounded him. Despite just being coils of wood, Enkidu's creation had the defensive properties of a high-quality Bounded Field.
As they turned to leave, Enkidu mentioned one more thing, "I promise you, Master. No matter what my friend throws at me, I shall not perish. I will ensure that life does leave this body. I swear to return to you."
With that, Enkidu blasted off in a burst of energy, soaring to somewhere over the ocean waves. Towards a grand reunion, a recreation of that faithful first bout in Uruk's town square.
Uruk, Mesopotamia
A Long, Long Time Ago…
For a long time, Enkidu did not approach the city of Uruk. Despite the gods' frustration at Gilgamesh's refusal to submit, the King had yet to truly do wrong.
But as the King grew, he changed. The ruler that was once amiable and kind had become a tyrant. With Gilgamesh having become oppressive, absolutist, and decadent, Enkidu knew it was time to face him.
As they reached the walls of Uruk, Enkidu saw the guards' faces become confused.
'They must be mistaking me for Shamhat. She did return to Uruk after teaching me.'
However, Enkidu was mistaken. The guards' confusion was indeed from their appearance, but it was drawn from the impossibility. Shamhat, who had returned to Uruk many years ago, had aged. Whoever the being before them was, it was not Shamhat.
Gathering his nerve, the leader of the guards shouted at Enkidu, "Halt! What do you want with Uruk?"
Enkidu was confused at the man's hostility but smiled as a familiar woman entered their vision.
As she admonished the guard, Shamhat's voice was still as beautiful as Enkidu remembered, "Shame on you, Captain Hirin! Do you not recognize an emissary of the gods when you see one?"
The Captain was sheepish, "Ah, Lady Shamhat! I was worried it might have been a demon of Lamashtu."
Shamhat shook her head, "Lamashtu is the half-sister of Lady Ishtar. Her brood would never prey on Uruk proper."
"I see! My apologies!"
"I'm not the one you need to apologize to, Captain."
Turning to Enkidu, Hirin bowed, "I apologize for my disrespect, Divine Emissary. Please, go right ahead."
Shamhat smiled, "Much better, Captain. And please, get one of your men to send for the King. We will be waiting at the Temple Square."
"A-as you command, my lady!"
Entering the city, Enkidu followed Shamhat through the streets of Uruk. It was a very different environment from the wilds they knew, and they could see the city regarded them as a foreign element as well.
As they walked, Shamhat spoke to Enkidu, "I have not seen you in a decade, dearest Enkidu. Have you been well?"
Enkidu nodded, "Yes, I have. You are still as beautiful as ever, Lady Shamhat."
Shamhat laughed, "You flatter me. I know my beauty has begun to wane in recent years."
Enkidu shook their head, "Your beauty is deeper than that. I assure you, that you shine as brightly as you did all those years ago."
"If you say so, Enkidu, then it must be true. But I must ask… are you here to help us with the King?"
As the pair entered the Temple Square, Enkidu nodded, "Indeed. I am here to correct Gilgamesh."
Shamhat knit her fingers, "I see… I hope you will succeed."
A few minutes later, the main street to the Temple Square rapidly cleared as a procession made their way towards the temple. Sitting on a golden litter was the King of Uruk, Gilgamesh.
He had the golden hair and red eyes of a child of the divine, with an arrogance that was clear as day. Setting his eyes on Enkidu, the King scoffed.
"So this is the envoy of the gods? I expected more than a doppelganger made of mud."
Enkidu stood undaunted, "This form was a gift for me, provided by the gods and Lady Shamhat. And with this form, I shall punish you, King Gilgamesh."
The King snarled, "You? Punish me? The gods have grown even more foolish. Die, mongrel."
A golden portal manifested and out came a sword as tall as a building. As it sped towards Enkidu, Shamhat let out a shocked gasp.
But Enkidu was ready. The dirt of the Temple Square swirled into an identically sized sword. The earthen weapon shot upwards, meeting Gilgamesh's own.
Equal in quality and power, the two blades could not overcome each other and rebounded. Gilgamesh's treasure landed in the Square with a thunk, while Enkidu's blade dissolved back into the earth.
Staring at his sword, the King's expression was one of bewilderment.
It wasn't the first time Gilgamesh had seen his weapons countered. The Kings of Kish, who could wield divine constructs, had always given him decent fights, even if they were only playful bouts.
But Enkidu was different. Gilgamesh's opening blow was intended to kill, but it was still countered.
Glaring at Enkidu with pure hatred, Gilgamesh summoned dozens of golden portals. But even with the greater number of weapons, it wasn't enough. Be it a sword, spear, or staff, Enkidu countered. From dirt and clay, the Chains of Heaven had an answer for each of Gilgamesh's treasures.
"This… how is this possible? You are a mere clod of earth! How can you rival me, the King?!"
Enkidu's silence only infuriated Gilgamesh further… and yet there was a stirring in his heart.
'What is this feeling… this excitement?'
Without realizing it, the King grinned. At long last, he was in the presence of a true opponent. One who could perhaps even make him draw it.
As Enkidu waited with a calm smile, and Shamhat with hope, Gilgamesh was filled with a feeling he had long since forgotten. The Gate of Babylon was thrown open, as countless golden portals manifested above the temple square.
Enkidu, knowing the risk this posed to Uruk, rushed forward. Gilgamesh was grabbed before he could react, and the two rocketed through the skies. Even while in Enkidu's grip, the King fired his weapons, but not one hit their mark. Once they were several miles from the city, Enkidu landed, throwing Gilgamesh into the dirt.
"To toss me to the ground like a common criminal… you have nerve."
The King was caked in sand and dirt, and a line of blood dripped down his forehead. He should have been furious, and yet he was not.
'There it is again… a strange feeling is overwhelming me. Is this the trickery of the gods?'
Enkidu shook their head at Gilgamesh's haughty expression, "You are the King of Uruk, Gilgamesh. It would not do for you to ravage it with your power. This place will be our battlefield. The gods have sent away all life from this place."
"A mere lump of clay lectures me on the ways of kingship? You overstep your bounds, emissary. I shall crush you here, and show the Gods I do not need their meddling."
"I am here to punish you. I do not believe I have overstepped in the slightest."
Gilgamesh, surprisingly, did not retort. Instead, he locked eyes with the earthen doll, as hundreds of portals opened up behind him. Enkidu, in response, caused the earth to swirl and churn.
Giving Enkidu a bloodthirsty grin, Gilgamesh yelled with fervor, "Is that so? Then come, doll of the Gods! I will show you what it means to be the one true king!"
It was a match that engraved itself into history. A battle that Shamhat would later describe as an event of terrifying awe.
A three-day and three-night-long clash that seemed to create and destroy the world seven times over.
When the battle finally ended, both fighters had reached their limit. Enkidu's mud was all but exhausted and Gilgamesh's treasury was nearly empty.
Both knew that if they had struck one more blow, they would have simultaneously perished. Faced with only a sacrificial possibility of victory, Gilgamesh dissolved into laughter, uncaring that he only had dirt to rest on.
Enkidu knelt on the ground, unsure if Gilgamesh was declaring a tie.
"Do you not regret the treasures you have spent?"
The King laughed in response, his voice bright, "If it is for someone I should use them on, is it unthinkable I would grant them such a favor?"
Enkidu laughed, "Perhaps."
In the end, no victor was decided. Instead, now seeing each other as equals, the King and the doll walked away as friends.
Smiling at the beautiful sight, Shamhat made her way back down from the walls of Uruk.
'Lord Anu's creation… to think a weapon of the gods could change the King so. Perhaps Uruk's darkness will finally begin to clear.'
Pacific Ocean, Off the Coast of Mie Prefecture
Day 3, Night
As Gilgamesh and Enkidu unleashed their ultimate attacks, destruction met creation.
It was a convergence of two extremes; the air shook with the energy exuded by both sides.
Even though the attacks counteracted each other, the results were not harmless. Rogue waves and waterspouts spawned from their blows.
As the ocean churned, the two Heroic Spirits gave it their all. Both knew a dead-on strike would end the other instantly; yet neither was afraid. They trusted in their strength and that of their opponent.
It was a childish yet serious moment and neither would sully it. While technically enemies, the two friends did not consider the Grail in these moments. For them, this was not a battle. It was a greeting, a test of the other's will and strength.
And so, they struck again, the second strikes of Enuma Elish being greater than the first.
The force of the second dispersion caused a crater to begin to form in the seabed. But Gilgamesh and Enkidu weren't done. Once more, they unleashed their attacks. Yet again, the sea and seafloor twisted and warped under their power. What was once a simple island was now a vast underwater crater that would later be discovered by the JMSDF.
Following the third strike, the two paused. Breathing in heavily, Gilgamesh began to laugh uproariously, "A glorious presentation! Even in the vessel of a Servant, you have not regressed!"
Enkidu smiled, "Nor have you, Gil. Ea is as fearsome as ever."
As if understanding Enkidu's words, the Sword of Rupture glowed ever-slightly brighter. The sight made Gilgamesh grin wider.
"Truly… you are the only one worthy of this sword."
Enkidu noticed the sentence's hidden message, "Gil, did you perhaps… incarnate?"
Gilgamesh paused before speaking, "You always have been good at reading me, my friend. That is exactly right. At the end of a previous Grail War, I was incarnated and trapped within the modern era, until the Grail swallowed me up at the end of the following War."
"I see… you did seem slightly more bitter. Did you not find an enemy that pleased you despite drawing Ea?"
Gilgamesh sighed, "Well, there was one worthwhile mongrel in the Fourth War. A King of Conquerors. He even tried to suggest friendship. But I shall have no friend but you."
Enkidu sighed, "I suppose you are never going to change your mind on that point. But there is more, is there not? Did you let your tyrannical side overwhelm you?"
"Being trapped in the modern era… grated me. I sought to judge humans by the standards of our era. And sullied Ea in my quest to do so. Drawing it against a curse and a faker…"
Enkidu gave a gentle smile, "Well even if you made mistakes, being repentant is not in your nature. Is that right, Gil?"
The King of Heroes smiled, "Indeed not. That behavior can be left to my childhood. Now, enough talk. Let us continue."
"Of course. Give me everything you've got."
Just as he had millennia ago, Gilgamesh tore open the gates of his treasury. Forming a vast line of golden light, weapons of all sorts protruded outwards.
The King's Treasure: Gate of Babylon
But just as they had not feared Ea, the sight of countless golden portals did not intimidate Enkidu. Instead, the doll of the gods offered up a gleeful smile.
The seabed glowed as Enkidu called upon their power of creation. From the ocean erupted weapons that were a match for Gilgamesh's own. With their presence in the modern day, Enkidu's arsenal had expanded, featuring rocket launchers, machine guns, and all sorts of other weapons the planet held in its memory.
Although formulated from mere silt and clay, Enkidu's power produced weapons all worthy of the title of Noble Phantasm.
The Wisdom of the People: Age of Babylon
Rising from the sea and descending from the sky, weaponry met weaponry. Fired again and again, each side's attacks were countered and parried. Sword met lance. Gunfire met lightning. Ice met hammer. As the King of Heroes' Noble Phantasms and Enkidu's creations collided, bursts of molten metal and arcane energy filled the sky. The sight filled Enkidu's heart with warmth.
'Seems he's enjoying himself. But then again, so am I.'
And so the battle continued, the night illuminated by the clashing of treasures both old and new.
With messages forged in weapon-fire, the two consummated their reunion. As their Masters watched with bated breath, they would continue to give everything they had.
For the sake of their adventures, torn apart so long ago.
Palace of Gilgamesh, Mesopotamia
A Long, Long Time Ago…
The palace of Uruk was abuzz with activity. Ever since Gilgamesh and Enkidu had conquered the Cedar Forest, the economy had been revitalized, and the arts were booming.
Standing before the throne, an elderly man bowed to the King. With a bored expression on his face, Gilgamesh gestured toward him, "Speak, mongrel."
The man spoke nervously, "Your majesty, there is trouble in the marketplaces. A merchant named Ea-nāṣir has been tainting the markets with sub-par metalwork. Please, give us permission to drive him out!"
As Enkidu watched quietly, Gilgamesh turned to his advisor, Siduri.
"Alert the city guard and have this man removed by nightfall. I will not allow scoundrels to taint my city's economy."
Siduri scratched the order onto a clay tablet and bowed, "As you command, my King."
As Siduri walked off to pass along the order, the elderly man bowed deeply, "Many thanks, my King. Your humble servant is most grateful!"
Gilgamesh waved him off, "Hmph. Begone, mongrel."
As the man scurried off, Gilgamesh sighed. Ever since he and Enkidu had returned from the Cedar Forest, his days had become unspeakably dull.
'It seems it is time Enkidu and I went on another quest. There was a sighting of Hanpa recently. That meddlesome shadow-dweller has been a pain in the land's side since the dawn of time. Perhaps it is finally time to slay him.'
Restraining a yawn, Gilgamesh turned to the returning Siduri.
'But for now…'
"Clear my schedule for the next hour. I will be resting."
Siduri nodded, "As you wish. I will inform the officials. A pleasant rest, my King."
Enkidu, who did not require sleep, smiled as Gilgamesh began his nap.
'He always works so hard.'
The palace settled into the serenity that accompanied the King's rest. But the peace was quickly interrupted as Gilgamesh and Enkidu felt the approach of a mighty presence.
Snapping his eyes open, Gilgamesh spoke with an undertone of irritation, "Hmph. So she has come."
Enkidu frowned, "I'm surprised she is coming herself. If it is a missive from the gods, they would normally send one of Anu's sukkals."
"You overestimate the heavens, my friend. She is a fickle and chaotic deity. She likely seeks to use us to alleviate her boredom yet again, nothing more."
As soon as Gilgamesh finished speaking, their visitor arrived. As the bow-shaped vessel she rode slowed to a halt, gasps of awe and lust were heard coming from the denizens of the palace.
Riding aboard Maana, the Boat of the Heavens, was a stunningly beautiful goddess. Her hair and eyes were identical in color to Gilgamesh's own, a clear indication of her divine nature. Her outfit was extremely revealing, consisting of a gold-ornamented white bra and a similarly decorated black thong. She wore a long black glove on her left arm, and her right leg was covered by a dark blue stirrup. She had various golden adornments all over her body. In her hair was a striking black and gold tiara.
She was the patron deity of Uruk; the Goddess of Venus and the Princess of the Heavenly Realm. She was a wielder of many authorities, holding sway over beauty, fertility, war, lust, and discord. A deity blessed by the Potnia Theron, she had no equals amongst the goddesses of Mesopotamia.
The Mistress of Heaven— Ishtar.
Stepping down from Maana, Ishtar's bare feet echoed against the tiles of the palace. The goddess's presence was stifling and powerful, drawing the eyes of everyone in the room. Even the palace's flowers bloomed wider to better bask in her beauty.
Her eyes fell briefly on Enkidu, regarding him disdainfully before she set her eyes on her main target.
"Greetings, King Gilgamesh. I hope you are doing well?"
The King ignored Ishtar's false pleasantries, "What do you want, Goddess Ishtar?"
The goddess frowned at his reply, "Such a rude response to your patron deity. But I shall forgive you, for I come with a generous offer."
Gilgamesh raised his eyebrow, "What sort of treasure could you offer me? My treasury already has more jewels than all of your vaults."
A vein popped on the goddess's forehead, but she continued nonetheless.
"King Gilgamesh, I propose a marriage between us! Become my husband, and you shall have the most beautiful of goddesses as your wife! Our children will be the mightiest in all creation!"
The silence was palpable before the room broke out into mutters. It was an offer few had expected and was nothing like the heartfelt proposal Gilgamesh's father had given the goddess Rimat-Ninsun.
And yet, to Ishtar's satisfaction, Gilgamesh seemed to be considering her offer.
Enkidu, a thin smile on their face, watched their friend carefully as he spoke.
"An interesting proposal, I must admit. It is a bewitching offer indeed… to be wed to the goddess who governs love and sex. Many men would sacrifice anything for such an opportunity."
Ishtar smiled, "So you agree? Wonderful—"
"Alas… I refuse."
The chatter stopped as Ishtar froze, "What?"
"Do your ears fail you, goddess? I refuse. I shall not marry you."
Ishtar's voice became a screech, "WHAT? WHY!"
Gilgamesh looked haughtily at the goddess, "Are you unaware of your own track record? Of the string of unfortunate lovers you have left behind?"
As Ishtar shook in anger, Gilgamesh continued, "You provide only a poisonous love. I have no desire to be like Dumuzid, Ishullanu, or that ill-fated shepherd. A marriage to you, while one of momentary pleasure, would ultimately dissolve into adultery and misfortune. So I refuse. I shall not bind myself to a cruel goddess who manipulates the hearts of men."
"You… you…"
Ishtar's power multiplied, but Gilgamesh remained unphased.
"You will regret your choice, Wedge. Mark my words."
With a flash of light, Ishtar vanished. A few moments later, Maana vanished as well.
As the muttering resumed, Siduri turned to Gilgamesh hesitantly, "My king… are you sure that was wise? Lady Ishtar is the patron deity of this city."
Gilgamesh waved off Siduri's concern, "Hmph. Regardless of her thoughts on it, I have only spoken the truth. She may choose to be insulted by my words, but she also cannot refute what I have said."
Enkidu interjected, "Still, she is likely to retaliate, Gil. Even Lord Anu plays along to his daughter's desires."
Gilgamesh scoffed, "The dynamics of the gods are uninspiring indeed. But should they choose to rain misfortune down on us… I will unleash my treasury upon whatever they send."
Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture
Day 3, Night
Lounging in her hideout in Yokohama, Francesca Prelati observed the battle between Gilgamesh and Enkidu.
"Oh wow! Those two sure are incredible! Unleashing their Noble Phantasms again and again like that! I wonder if their Masters can take it?"
Putting a finger to her chin, Francesca hummed, "Actually… maybe I should take a look around. I'd like to catch a glimpse of their Masters!"
Directing her familiar across the sea, Francesca caught sight of Gilgamesh's Vimana. She recognized that ship from her surveillance of the Fourth War.
'Oh it's that thing Goldie showcased in the river battle! He didn't end up teaming up with Arty and the others against my dear Gilles… but he did fight the Matou's Berserker. I wonder whether we'll get a rematch here in the World Egg. That Meta Liberation Army leader summoned Lancelot, after all.'
After reminiscing a little longer, Francesca refocused on the task at hand— Gilgamesh's Master. However, she wasn't prepared for who she saw.
'What the— her? Bazett Freaking McRemitz? The Master of the Multi-Reverse Punch? Ms."I-Trusted-Kirei-Kotomine-And-Got-Merced"? She's Goldie's Master? How the heck is this even possible?'
Francesca's mind swirled with questions, but she reigned herself back in, "It's gotta be the work of that troublesome vampire. He might have sublimated the Grail, but he was too sloppy about it!"
Francesca's tantrum caught the attention of her Servant.
|::| Prelati. Calm thyself.
"Foreigner! How's this possible?! I can't even achieve resurrection like that! How the heck is that dead woman sitting on Goldie's plane?!"
|::| The machinations of the Grail can escape even mine sight. Perhaps the Third Magic hast seeped into this world in an unexpected way.
Francesca muttered softly, "Materialized Soul… that could explain things. It's still weird though."
|::| Unless she proves immortal, it is of lesser concern. There ist a far greater concern in mine vision.
"Lemme guess… it's those trigger-happy besties and their Noble Phantasms."
|::| Indeed. Although the Chains of Heaven's power dost reweave the strikes of the Sword of Rupture, the threefold strikes hast created destabilization within mine womb. A Convergence is not at hand, but I shalt not abide it any longer. Their battle must be stopped.
"So you're gonna go and make them behave? The King of Heroes probably won't cooperate."
|::| True Archer's rage ist of no concern. True Lancer shalt placate his wrath.
"Hah, that's true. Momma Até never bothered visiting Sumer, but you Outer Gods have been watching our world for a longgggg time. Way before that Lovecraft guy propagated your existence. So you know what you're talking about."
|::| I shalt depart for the battle. Thou mayst continue thine observations as thou pleases.
Francesca felt the distinct sense of Olkoth's departure, even if it was only his sight shifting to a new location.
"Well like he said, I should keep observing while I can. If Foreigner's gonna stop their battle, I gotta hurry up and find Enkidu's Master!"
Moving away from the ocean, Francesca's familiars surveyed the coast, catching sight of an unexpectedly familiar face. What was more, the plant life surrounding him was a clear sign of what Servant he controlled.
"Woah, Sigma?! It's you? You're Enkidu's Master?"
Leaning back, Francesca had a big grin on her face, "Man… not giving him a catalyst was the right idea! As fun as him summoning a spirit like Paracelsus or Spartacus would be, leaving him to spin the wheel was the right call! The empty types do really summon the best Servants!"
With a wide smile, Francesca spoke as if Sigma was there to listen, "I'm curious to see how Enkidu changes you, Sigma! Give me a good show, okay?"
Iida, Nagano Prefecture
Day 3, Night
In a suburban area of Iida City, Jester Karture sat on a rusty swing set. The vampire, attempting to blend in to some degree, was in his child form.
However, his presence in the disused park was still odd. While children still frequented this place, it was never at hours such as this. Especially not alone.
'I wonder how many more people are gonna walk into my path. Humans really are foolish.'
The number of victims Jester had claimed tonight was already up to three. First was a middle-aged policeman. Then it was a red-haired policewoman. Third was a Pro Hero with a scorpion face, who was at least a bit puzzling to Jester.
'If I was an actual child, I'd probably have run away screaming. Well, whatever, the guy was just food for me anyway. I'm far more interested in those presences.'
Although it was impossible to see from his location, Jester could feel the repeated emanations of mana to the south.
'Man, the true Servants getting rowdy already? This level of energy rivals even Avenger. I suppose it could be that Anti-World Servant from Nagoya, but I doubt it. Their Master pulled them out this morning, so I doubt they'd be able to run wild again so soon.'
"Now then… Avenger. What's got you quiet?"
For the last several hours, Jester's Servant had been completely silent. The vampire was originally ignoring it but decided it was time for an answer.
𐦚= 'The squabbles of the other Servants are of no concern to me… at least I would normally say so.'
"Is it because there's an Anti-World Phantasm involved? Or maybe it's that other one… Anti-Purge I think?"
𐦚= 'While that is intriguing… it is not that. This mana reminds me of those callous gods of Sumer.'
"Ah right, the fascinating stuff from your past. It's quite incredible to me that Thoth would tamper with Proper Human History just to seal you."
𐦚= 'The magicians of Egypt did not know the meaning of boundaries, and their patron was no exception.'
"Then again, it's the nature of the gods to meddle. Or that's what good ol' Valery always said. I'm from after the Age of Gods myself."
Jester sighed, "But anyways, back on track. If it's a Sumerian mana source, does that mean we are going to be fighting some Sumerian Gods?"
Avenger mused, 𐦚= 'This mana does not feel like Authority. I sense Divinity in one of the presences, but it is subdued. The other feels like the planet itself, shrouded in divine influence. They are no gods, but they are strongly tied to their pantheon.'
"Well, well, well… from that description, it could only be those two. To think Gilgamesh and Enkidu would both partake in the same Grail War… quite an interesting turn of events. Tch."
As interested as Jester was, he wasn't stupid. The King of Heroes had been a force to be reckoned with in the Fourth War, being the last surviving Servant of the failed ritual. While Jester had no data on Enkidu, he figured they were comparable to the one lauded as the "Strongest Heroic Spirit".
𐦚= 'You know of them.'
"Well, not personally. I heard Gilgamesh got summoned in the Fourth War and won. He will be a threat, and Enkidu will probably be a similar level of trouble."
𐦚= 'Then it is all the more critical that we remain in the shadows. Let the other Servants gorge themselves on combat.'
"Yeah, about that… I'm not sure how long I'll be able to stay on the sides. When my strength returns, I'll be itching for a fight."
Although Apophis said nothing, Jester could tell it concurred with his point.
"I'd rather risk everything and have some fun. I'm a creature of wants, and I won't ignore my nature. Are you with me, Avenger?"
𐦚= '...yes. My own nature seeks combat. Passivity is not my way.'
Jumping off the swing, Jester smiled, "Wonderful! Then I suppose I should get going. Feeding will help both of us recover!"
As he left the park, the child-looking Jester chuckled.
'Maybe I'll run into another Pro Heroes along the way… prey that fights back is always more fun!'
Chaldean Plains, Mesopotamia
A Long, Long Time Ago…
It didn't take long for Ishtar's wrath to make itself known. The Goddess of Venus, spurned by Gilgamesh, gave an ultimatum to her father:
"Unleash the Bull of Heaven upon Uruk, or I shall smash open the Gates of the Underworld."
Not wanting to sacrifice the whole of Sumer to protect a single city-state, Anu relented. Giving Ishtar authority over the divine beasts, the goddess was free to unleash the greatest weapon of the gods upon Uruk.
Gugalanna, The Bull of Heaven.
The bull was a titanic creature, larger than an entire mountain. Its body was made of a colossal golden skeleton, its muscles and bones having been torn away in more ancient times. In place of its lost skin, it shrouded itself in a massive storm cloud, hundreds of kilometers in diameter. Even though it descended to Earth far from Uruk, its presence could still be distinctly felt. In the seven years it took to arrive at the city, the lands around Uruk descended into a period of famine and destruction.
When, at last, Gugalanna arrived before Uruk, it took only a single stride from the beast to reduce the Chaldean Plains to an inhospitable wasteland.
Watching from the city walls, Gilgamesh and Enkidu could no longer hold themselves back.
At Enkidu's urging, Gilgamesh had done nothing for the last several years. The doll of Aruru hoped that Ishtar's rage might subside and that the Bull of Heaven would be called back. But now, even if it meant angering Ishtar further, the two friends had no choice. For Uruk's sake, Gugalanna had to be stopped.
Standing atop the last intact watchtower within the Chaldean Plains, they readied themselves for their greatest battle.
Gilgamesh regarded Gugalanna with interest, "So it is even larger than they say. Not even a mountain matches the height of this Divine Beast. As troublesome as the gods are, they truly do wield an impressive weapon."
Enkidu regarded Gugalanna with sadness, "I can hardly call it a living being. This creature… it only exists to serve the gods. It had no true will of its own."
Gilgamesh scoffed, "That is exactly what makes this creature a perfect tool of the gods."
"Does that make me imperfect then? Defying them?"
"Hmph. Perfection in excess is a poison. Imperfection… perhaps that could be said to be true perfection."
"Yes, flaws do make this world interesting. Now then, how should we handle this? I doubt my creations or your treasury could harm it."
"You are suggesting I draw that sword against this beast?"
"Yes. But will it listen?"
"It has not in the past— but it will now. Today, I shall name that nameless blade. So, my friend, I require you to hold the beast back."
"You can count on me. Best of luck, Gil."
Rushing forward, Enkidu's body began to transform. While Shamhat's appearance was their ideal form, her visage wouldn't aid them in this battle.
'I will become the Chains of Heaven in full.'
Transfiguring their entire body into gold and silver chains, Enkidu wrapped around the Bull of Heaven. Even the spatial warping of Gugalanna's cloud armor wasn't enough to stop them. Weaving through the distortive barriers, the earthen doll quickly locked the Bull of Heaven in place. Amplifying their powers of purgation, Enkidu targeted the Divine Beast's godly origins, using Gugalanna's own divine power against it. The Bull of Heaven was constrained— but Enkidu knew it wouldn't be for long. Even with its own power working against it, Gugalanna was far too powerful for Enkidu to contain forever. Gilgamesh had to hurry— before Enkidu shattered.
Reaching into the deepest part of his treasury, the King of Heroes called forth a weapon gifted to him by the gods.
It was a nameless weapon from the dawn of the Age of Gods. It was a void in history, said to have split the earth and sky to create the land of Sumer. Yet none of the gods could recall wielding it. Although many gods considered claiming it, something about the blade repelled them. It was as though they were not intended to hold it. With Marduk, Ninurta, and even mighty Enlil rejected, the gods left the weapon to rot within their vaults.
But on the night the King of Heroes was conceived, the goddess Bau saw the nameless weapon glow for a moment. After a convocation of the gods, it was decided the child of Lugalbanda and Rimat-Ninsun would be given the weapon and become the champion of the Heavens.
Even when Gilgamesh strayed from this destiny and became a wedge that pushed away the gods, the sword remained his. Up, until now, it had no name; it was but a shadow, an undeclared armament.
But no longer.
"Thou art the Sword that knows the truth."
"A vessel of stars, a weapon that precedes genesis."
"Thy winds are creation itself, a star that rent the earth and sky."
"I shall grant you a name worthy of such might."
"I select the Father of Man. Administrator of the Ocean of Void. Builder of Water, Earth, and Life. Husband of Ninmah. Master of the Seven Sages."
The weapon, finally being given a name, pulsed with light.
"I name thee for this god. From the beckoning of this name, thou shalt roar."
"Now awaken… Ea."
The contract was complete. Ea wasn't the sword's true name; it was merely a fanciful title bestowed by the King of Heroes. But for a sword that could never truly have a name, it was enough. Gilgamesh had claimed his birthright. At the intonation of its new nickname, Ea would respond.
Now activated, red winds coiled around the Anti-World weapon. The force Ea was exuding was incredible, surprising the gods observing the battle. How could a mere demigod, one-third mortal, wield a power of this magnitude?
Even Gugalanna, the indomitable Bull of Heaven, instinctively took a step back. Ishtar, who was watching the battle, gaped in shock.
Gugalanna wasn't supposed to be capable of feeling fear. Even when the Bull of Heaven had its skin and muscles torn off by Sefar, the Divine Beast remained steadfast. Yet now, in the face of Gilgamesh's weapon, the Divine Beast was experiencing primal instincts. Fear had surfaced within it for the first time, and it was only Enkidu's chains that kept it from fleeing.
Unable to dodge, Gugalanna could only writhe as Gilgamesh unleashed his attack. A tornado of crimson destruction spun toward it, promising agony.
The Star of Creation That Split Heaven and Earth.
𒂊𒉡𒈠𒂊𒇺: Enuma Elish
It was the first and greatest strike of Ea's full power. Only once would the Sword of Rupture unleash this degree of strength.
Only in this moment was the Nameless Sword truly awake.
At the last second, Enkidu's chains broke away from Gugalanna, and the earthen doll rushed away as fast as it could.
Milliseconds later, Enuma Elish struck the Bull of Heaven dead-on. The world-breaking force was concentrated on that one, singular, target. Gugalanna's cloud armor was torn away instantly, and its golden bones cracked and crumbled.
As they rushed to safety, Enkidu smiled at the incredible sight.
'Wonderful job, Gil.'
The Bull of Heaven howled in pain, the roars echoing across the globe.
Ignoring the deafening sound, Gilgamesh kept his eyes on his opponent. Although Ea's attack had struck, the Divine Beast was still standing.
'It truly is the ultimate weapon of the Gods. To withstand such a strike is something not even I could do.'
Hearing Ea powering down in his hand, Gilgamesh chuckled.
"Rest, O' Ea. You have done well. I will finish this myself."
The sky became gold as the treasury of the king opened. The first half of the cage had been set, but Gilgamesh wasn't the only one fighting.
Down below, Enkidu pooled their power into the Earth, turning the Chaldean Plains into a sea of golden light. The earth swirled into weapons of the highest quality, strengthened by Gaia's resentment for the Divine Beast's effect on the planet.
Uruk's might was united as one. The weapons that once pushed back against each other rained downwards and upwards, striking Gugalanna's crippled form. Weakened as it was, the Bull of Heaven could do nothing but await its inevitable death. After what felt like an eternity, the damaged divine beast collapsed in a shower of golden dust and lightning.
Witnessing the Bull of Heaven's destruction, the gods of Sumer were in a state of troubled awe.
Many of them disagreed with Ishtar's course of action… but this outcome was not without consequences for Gilgamesh and Enkidu. As contrived as it was, the Bull of Heaven was sacred. Not even Shamash, who had protected the pair from divine punishment for killing Huwawa, could defend them now.
Even if it was due to Ishtar's misbehavior, a sin had been committed in the eyes of divine law. Gilgamesh and Enkidu had defied the gods— now one of them would have to die.
Pacific Ocean, Off the Coast of Mie Prefecture
Day 3, Night
As the skies were alight with weaponry, the King of Heroes laughed uproariously.
Although he usually maintained an air of kingly grace, at this moment, he had let it all go.
In the presence of his dearest friend, the bitterness within him was fading. The memories of the Fourth War, Fifth War, and the interim between… he was free from that.
Staring up at him from below, Enkidu smiled. Gilgamesh was happy again, and with that, Enkidu found their own happiness.
'His laughter is as intoxicating as usual. I should try to hear it a little better… hmm?!'
Enkidu felt it before it happened. The world around the two heroes twisted, unnatural swirls of color forming coils around them. In an instant, countless ink-like eyes had formed on these effusions of alien energy.
Gilgamesh looked at the paint-like streams in disgust, "What sort of blasé trickery is this?"
A voice, sounding like a cacophony of agony and asphyxiation, resounded across the sea.
|::| CEASE.
The presence of the Outer God Olkoth, even if it was only a sliver, warped reality. Water began to gather into floating masses, and the life in the sea below began mutating. Through the power of the World Egg's master, their existences were filled with Quirk Factor, causing superpowers to emerge within them. Coral gained the power to set itself ablaze. A strand of kelp gained circular halos around itself. A crab was enlarged to the size of a house.
Hearing the agonized cries of the natural world, Enkidu put a hand to their head.
"Agh…"
Seeing their friend's pained expression, Gilgamesh's face became one of absolute fury. Allowing Ea to swirl rapidly, he prepared to unleash a world-destroying strike upon the interloper.
But Enkidu stopped him, "Gil, don't!"
Turning to his friend, Gilgamesh's eyes flashed with confusion, "Why should I not? This ingrate dares to interfere in our battle, and has brought you pain. That demands absolute destruction!"
Enkidu shook their head, "No, Gil. Can't you sense it? This… thing, whatever it is, is beyond the World. Using Ea will achieve nothing but damage to reality."
Assessing the alien mass, Gilgamesh knew Enkidu spoke true. Ea's winds dissipated, and he gazed angrily at one of Olkoth's ink-like eyes.
"Name yourself, outsider."
|::| I am Olkoth. I am that which brings existence to this world. You have rampaged, King of Heroes. I have come to mitigate your festivities.
Gilgamesh growled, "So, you are a filthy interruptor? You tread upon a sacred bout. Begone."
|::| Nay. I shalt not depart, not while mine macrocosm remains threatened.
Enkidu spoke quietly, "Do our powers threaten the stability of your world?"
|::| Indeed. Thine bout hast brought instability to this world of mine design. I shalt not let it expound. Obey, or witness thineselves removed from the fabric of mine womb.
Enkidu nodded, "Very well. Out of respect for your position as an administrator, I will abide by your wish of our withdrawal."
Gilgamesh scoffed, "You dance to the tune of this Outsider, my friend?"
Enkidu smiled sadly, "As much as I want to continue, our actions are threatening the state of this world. I do not know what will happen if we continue to defy this 'Olkoth''s rules, but I suspect it will not be pleasant."
The King of Heroes's scowl thickened, "Hmph. Very well. Your rules disgust me, Outsider, but out of consideration for my friend, I shall comply. For now."
|::| That is sufficient.
With its worries placated, the Outer God's presence vanished. The alien matter it produced melted away, vanishing back into the fabric behind the world. However, the Quirk-blessed life below remained.
"Such a dull existence, that Outsider is. Ruining our reunion."
"Be that as it may, we are mere Ghost Liners. If this being holds authority over this entire reality, it can expel us with a thought. Unlike the denizens of this planet, we have no true roots here. And neither do our Masters."
"You would prioritize your Master so greatly, my friend?"
"I would. I promised that I would return to his side and I do not want to break that promise… not even for you."
"Your selfishness is clear as ever. You may claim to seek selflessness, but I know the truth."
"I am flawed. But I suppose, as you once said, that is how I am more perfect."
"Truly… you have no equal. Farewell, my friend. May we meet again."
"Of course. I fully intend to. Be well, Gil."
With a burst of speed, Enkidu rocketed away, the waves splitting from their departure.
Gilgamesh, waving his hand, willed the Vimana to return to him. Bazett moved off the throne and looked worriedly at her Servant.
"Your majesty! I saw those… roots. Was your bout interrupted?"
Gilgamesh held up his hand, irritation in his voice, "I will not speak of my private matters to you, mongrel woman. Your questions have no place here."
"I… of course, your majesty."
As the Vimana rocketed off to an unknown destination, Bazett watched the King of Heroes carefully. He clenched his hand on the throne's arm, threatening to crack it from frustration.
Olkoth's meddling had stirred up bad memories in the Archer-class Servant. Memories of the worst day in his entire existence. The day he and his dearest friend were forced to say goodbye.
Uruk, Mesopotamia
A Long, Long Time Ago…
Peeking her head inside the small bedchamber, a young servant girl spoke hesitantly, "M-my King, I've brought you some breakfast—"
Sitting beside a bedridden Enkidu, Gilgamesh's reply was full of frustration and pain, "I do not need food! BEGONE!"
As the girl scampered away, Enkidu spoke weakly to their friend, "Gil, please. You must eat. You have had nothing for the last twelve days— cough, cough!"
Balling his fist, Gilgamesh's face was unusually solemn, "I…"
Enkidu chuckled, "Just— cough —look at yourself. You are becoming indecisive. It's not— cough — like you."
"..."
"You need to lead your people, Gil, with— cough —or without me."
Gilgamesh ground his teeth, "I am just supposed to give up on you? You are the most important thing in my life, Enkidu. I refuse to lose you."
Enkidu shook their head, "I already told you, Gil. Shamash gave me a— cough —vision… today is my last day. I will be gone very soon."
"I reject that future— even if I must fight the gods themselves, I do not want to lose you! Not to the petty schemes of Ishtar!"
"No, Gil, you must not. Even— cough —if they have wronged you, you— cough —must not risk your people's safety. You are the King. You must not forsake them."
Enkidu broke into an extensive coughing fit, flakes of clay falling off their body.
Gilgamesh, realizing what was happening, allowed tears to fall as he took hold of Enkidu's hand. He held no care for appearances, not in his friend's last moments.
"You foolish doll… lecturing me on kingship as you die."
"I was sent by the— cough, cough —heavens to correct your behavior… and I will— cough, cough —fulfill that task, to the end."
The flaking continued. As Gilgamesh shook in frustration, Enkidu's form failed, and their body began to crumble into dust.
As their face cracked, the child of Anu and Aruru offered their final words, "Be well, Gil. Be well, and watch over Uruk for me. Alright?"
Gilgamesh said nothing, but Enkidu knew they were heard. Unable to maintain themselves, Enkidu let their control over their form end. With their lifeforce exhausted, the doll of the Gods crumbled, leaving behind a pile of inert clay.
Clutching the clay tenderly, Gilgamesh's heart was overcome with grief. He embraced Enkidu's remains as countless tears flowed out. But when his tear ducts ran dry, the King composed himself. As he stood up, grief gave way to rage.
'The gods… Ishtar… they made a pawn of my friend. I will not allow them to hold such power over me. I will not allow death to reign over me.'
Muttering softly to himself, Gilgamesh reminisced, "That story mother told me of… the chronicle of Utnapishtim. The King who became immortal."
Gilgamesh didn't remember all the details, but he doubted it would matter much.
'I will find Utnapishtim and become immortal. I will ensure none ever forget you, my friend. Ishtar will not have the last laugh in our legend. I swear it.'
Ushimitsu City, Wakayama Prefecture
Day 3, Night
"Dammit… stupid arsonist. What the hell did you leave me with?"
Staring at his hand, Isana Genyōsha's eyebrow twitched. Just hours ago, he had operated on Toya Todoroki, replacing a patch of skin that had been affected by a strange tattoo. Not long after Dabi departed, the tattoo had transferred from the removed skin to Isana's left hand.
'I doubt it's a ploy by Todoroki… as moronic as he is, I know he values my services.'
Being a man of science, Isana had immediately analyzed his hand. To his surprise, the symbols seemed to be made of concentrated Quirk Factor— which seemed to be a mix of Dabi's and his own. There also seemed to be neuron-like energy structures extending from his hand. Strangely, they didn't seem to be taking up any physical space, overlapping with his existing body structures.
'The unknown structures produce an energy that permeates through the body. Yet, the energy needs to be produced somehow. But how?'
Testing himself further, Isana found nearly all of his bodily functions were occurring at normal levels. The only anomaly was the right side of his brain, which was displaying an abnormally high amount of activity.
'Could it be drawing energy from my subconscious thoughts? Or is it the other way around?'
Isana had guessed correctly. Through his thinking about the Command Spells, he was subconsciously fueling the completion of the summoning protocols. Linking to the Grail, the manifestation of his Servant was initiated.
A link to the Root was established, and the Grail now had the task of determining Isana's Servant. The man had no catalyst, so the Grail focused on his identity.
Class would not be an issue. Although a few slots were filled, every Servant class had an opening.
Perhaps the ideal choice would be a Servant tied to the sea. The Rider-class Servant Sinbad or the Berserker-class Servant Zheng He would both serve as fitting summons.
However, they were too heroic. Isana Genyōsha was a twisted man, unconcerned with the lives of his fellow humans. A more evil Servant would suit him better; perhaps Nzambi or Koga Saburo.
Ultimately, Koga Saburo's connection to Mount Ibuki served as a stronger link. Nzambi's status as a Divine Spirit had also been problematic.
But before the Grail could initiate the Assassin-class Servant's manifestation, something happened it did not intend. An external influence, overflowing with Divinity, invaded its system. The summoning, for lack of a better term, glitched.
The Grail tried to fight it, of course, but the invader was strong. Their authority could charm even the Grail's protocols. Koga Saburo's manifestation was pushed aside in the place of this aberrant spirit.
Even charmed, the Grail fought. It canceled the creation of a Servant body for the usurper. Even if the Servant manifested as True Rider, they would be without a body to sustain their Saint Graph.
The spirit scoffed at the Grail's petty resistance.
'Oh, foolish Mage's ritual… I will not be so easily stymied.'
As Curator's hand was engulfed in red light, the half-masked man cursed in surprise.
The spirit, meanwhile, scanned the surrounding area. Fortunately, there was a potential vessel within the same room.
The invasive Rider permeated into the comatose body of Konako Haizono within Curator's vat.
If Konako was conscious, the invasion would have been difficult, even for an existence of True Rider's level. But Konako had been kept unconscious by a constant influx of sleep-inducing drugs, and the spirit had little trouble taking over. Opening a single red eye, the incarnated Rider sent a pulse of power through the lab's machinery.
Curator barely had time to move out of the way as the vat exploded.
'What the hell! First my hand glows, and now Dusty Ash's vat explodes?'
His questions were halted as he heard the sound of wet footsteps on the linoleum floor. Looking forward, the villain doctor saw the formerly comatose Dusty Ash approaching.
Or at least, what had been Dusty Ash. Isana was an observant man, and he could tell something had changed about the Volcano Thieves member. Konako was an attractive woman, but now she had an almost supernatural quality to her beauty. But more distinctive, her dark gray pupils had become a crimson red.
'I'll figure out what happened later. For now, I need to suppress her!'
"BEARHEAD! GET DOWN HERE!"
Hearing Isana's yell, his bodyguard rushed down. Instinctively identifying "Dusty Ash" as a threat, the animalistic villain leaped forward with his claws bared. Just as he was about to tear into her, the woman stepped forward with superhuman grace and cupped Yatsu Shikuma's chin.
"How beastly… be a good boy and stand down, won't you?"
To Curator's shock, Bearhead disengaged and bowed in apology.
"I apologize, Mistress."
The woman smiled, "Mistress… I enjoy being called that."
The woman set her red eyes on Isana, "But in contrast, there is one thing I hate… being bound. I doubt you understand what is going on, but you are a hindrance to my revenge. A goddess does not bow to a Master."
"Goddess? Don't make me laugh. I don't know who you are, and how you possessed Dusty Ash, but you will pay for wrecking my lab!"
"Hahh… the ones who resist my charm are always a pain. Mutt, grab his neck, will you?"
Curator didn't have time to counter before his bodyguard was holding him in a chokehold.
Struggling in Bearhead's grip, Curator rasped, "You… how is this possible?! Are you one of All For One's peons?!"
Rider glared, "I don't know who this 'All For One' is, but I have no Master. I am a goddess. I bow to no one, not even father Anu. And especially not to you."
Looking at Dabi's discarded skin, the woman grinned, "Ah, so you are a successor to those Command Spells. Alas, I can only extract them from the source."
Brushing her hand over the patch, Curator watched as the symbols on his hand dissipated, reappearing on Dabi's skin. They glowed a pinkish color and elongated into two long strands, one on each arm.
"Transfer complete… I had to spend one to suppress this body's consciousness, but that is an acceptable loss. And now, summoner… I have no more use for you."
Turning to Bearhead, she nodded, "Kill him."
The animal villain squeezed, his superior strength quickly overwhelming Isana's bones. Even as the villain doctor thrashed, both Rider and Bearhead regarded him coldly. With a sickening crack, the man stilled. Isana Genyōsha was dead.
Tossing the body away with a grunt, Bearhead looked down, awaiting his next order.
Rider smiled, "What a good boy… I suppose some menial laborers may come in handy for my revenge."
Ishtar looked upwards, observing some unseen energy flow within the air.
'The mana in the air stinks of them both. That troublesome Gilgamesh and pathetic Enkidu… I won't allow them to gallivant around together, even as Servants.'
Despite her claims of goddesshood, she was not a true goddess. She was a program ingrained upon the planet, made to ensure Gilgamesh and Enkidu would never enjoy peace together. A recorded psyche, a near-perfection recreation of the Goddess of Venus.
Olkoth's World Egg had not included her emergence protocol, but the remnant energies of the Grail had been enough to initiate its activation upon the Earth the Grail came from. Usurping the Rider class, the goddess's echo crossed the tides of space-time, passing through the divide.
Her incarnation was far from perfect. Her power would take time to build to full, but she was not weak. She would draw strength from her Authorities and become an existence that not even the King of Heroes could overcome.
'Just you wait, Gilgamesh, Enkidu… I'll make you suffer once again!'
TRUE RIDER: ISHTAR
To be continued in Chapter 17: Servile Momentum
Servant Profiles: True Lancer
Bio:
Class: Lancer
Master: Sigma
True Name: Enkidu
Gender: Genderless
Alignment: True Neutral
Stats:
Strength: - (E ~ A)
Endurance: - (E ~ A)
Agility: - (E ~ A)
Mana: - (E ~ A)
Luck: - (E ~ A)
Noble Phantasm: A++
Class Skills:
Magic Resistance: - (E ~ A)
Personal Skills:
Transfiguration: A-
Presence Detection: A+
Noble Phantasms:
Age of Babylon
The Wisdom of the People
Rank: Unknown
Type: Unknown
Enuma Elish
O' Humans, Let Us Restrain the Gods
Rank: A++
Type: Anti-Purge