With a smile filled not with pride, but honest promise, the King of Heroes walked forward through the blinding light.

It had been a day and a half since they returned to Chaldea. Many needed rest and recuperation, especially the unconscious and injured Gudao, so the catalyst summoning had been scheduled the following afternoon. Gilgamesh was openly content with waiting another measly day for the promised reunion. It was merely spent as a refined, quiet day to prepare Enkidu's room and let any lingering frustrations disappear.

Those weeks in Babylonia felt like a terrible decade. So many raw emotions had cascaded through him, coming and going like the tides. After several turbulent days walking in his era once again, he had finally acknowledged and come to terms with his experiences. Now, with their safe return to Chaldea, the tempestuous saga had finally concluded.

He allowed himself a brief, subtle chuckle. Never before would he have considered so many thoughts and possibilities that were presented to him. Though many voiced their occasionally blunt opinions as he trudged through the singularity, he had actually listened. With everything he had seen and experienced, he had to. The only thing worse than being wrong, was continuously making the same mistakes. The king had to embody perfection as close as possible, and any failure could not be allowed.

Without a doubt, he was glad he acted upon his friend's beliefs. He had come that much closer to being absolute, admittedly with the help of others. Though he made the decisions and choices, he could not argue that there were those who had offered a surprising hand he did not expect. Out of all, his dearest friend would get the first thanks for starting him along this path. He would also receive the first apology for not taking those suggestions at first.

As pride welled in his chest, Gilgamesh was certain Enkidu would be proud to see what he's become.

Slowly, his footsteps approached the growing magical energy signature in the center. It was palpable, leaving little to the imagination regarding its strength. There was no doubt in his mind who it would be, so he stopped quietly in the silent room to let the curtain rise. Small specs of visualized mana drifted from the artificial shield above and floated the silhouette of the-

Gilgamesh's expression fell to utter shock as gasps raced through the watching audience. The catalyst was indeed perfect; Nothing could have surpassed the cord of friendship in its accuracy. That precious gift was cherished beyond a doubt, and it was the exact one given by Kingu in that final moment. It was guaranteed to summon a servant connected with it.

Even knowing this, it did not prevent him from feeling total despair as he stared forward into the red eyes of his transparent counterpart.

:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:

Epilogue

:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:

"Oh my god no…" Gabrielle mumbled out loud as she covered her mouth with her hand.

Gilgamesh felt numb. This was not how it was supposed to be. After everything, he was supposed to be reunited with Enkidu at last. He was to show him around Chaldea, giving a personal tour of the facility he had often silently observed. With him at his side, he was to ensure Chaldea would become a worthy home for himself and future heroes. It was to become a bastion of promised potential that the rest of the revolting modern world could aspire to become.

They were to make up for lost time, having conversations large and small. He'd impart the experience of the past singularity to him. They would have appreciated each other's company once more. He would… Gilgamesh would have…

King Gil stared back at him quietly, holding his translucent form for far longer than memorial essences of the past. He gazed quietly around the room before sighing. Quietly, he turned back to the archer with an apologetic smile while his chest began to glow with light. "…You did well, Gilgamesh… Judging by your look, I, the King, know what has transpired… For what it's worth… I'm sorry…"

As his ghostly words echoed through the archer's mind, the translucent hero finally faded. His misty form collapsed into the glowing orb that shined within the counterpart's chest. It formed a perfect orb of rainbow color before him. Within it, the visualized concept of the king's tablet and the golden axe rotated gently. His eyes gazed at the memorial essence, unwilling to accept that this is what it had all boiled down to.

Not a word was spoken within the room, letting only the subdued hum of the room echo through his ears. Perhaps it wasn't quiet. Maybe others were gossiping, but he couldn't hear anything. Only the face and voice of Enkidu flashed in his mind as he stared at the memorial essence. His breathing calmed down, and his expression fell flat. His eyes could not hide the hint of shame and despair, but there was no denying fate.

Quietly, Gilgamesh reached forward with one hand and touched the memorial essence. Upon doing so, it fragmented into a small whirlwind, racing up his arm to its destination. It swirled about and into his head, but Gilgamesh did not move as the experiences began to flash through his mind rapidly. There was little to be surprised about, and he watched the rapid overview with numbed eyes. It was practically the same as he remembered, save from King Gil's point of view.

Yet still, there were moments he let playout a little slower as he stood in the middle of the room silently.

There was that walk to the shoreline, where he battled Kingu fiercely with welling emotions. Every night before he fell asleep on the throne, he would stare at his own hands and tablet and reminisce. On separate occasions, he would enter his room and stare blankly at the clay container with its held cord. With every moment that flashed, he felt the disappointment and pain that King Gil had come to accept as his daily punishment.

Then there was that final moment atop that mountain-

Gilgamesh wrenched those memories from his vision without any motion. With a deep breath, he collected himself and closed his eyes. He controlled his silently roaring emotions before opening his eyes again. Footsteps approached from behind, and he knew what was coming. Instead of waiting, he turned around slowly to face Gabrielle.

He was about to berate her; The king needed no sympathy. Instead, his mouth didn't move as he stared at the nearly heartbroken expression she wore. She became the silent spokesperson for several others in the room who looked at him in apologetic sympathy. It would have surprised him that a palpable number actually cared now, but all had come to witness the only guaranteed summoning. What a guarantee it was...

"Gilgamesh…" the female master began, but the King of Heroes merely lifted his hand to stop her.

"You have the king's gratitude, Gabrielle. Save your words."

"But I…!" Gabrielle began with a hint of desperation. He appreciated the concern from the master far more than before, but he did not want this to drag on. It would only make it worse. "We're still summoning! We have a bunch more quartz and-"

"I shall not repeat myself. The summoning worked and gave me what I deserved," Gilgamesh stated flatly, making the master's expression drop further. "You did nothing wrong, Gabrielle. Everything was perfect…"

Gilgamesh walked past the master and towards the door. The crowd of servants and some employees parted, making a clear corridor for the king. As he walked, he spoke an admittance by accident in his numb state. "…It was me who was not."

For the first time, the master's eyes teared up for the archer as he walked past the quietly gazing servants. He did not hear the silent whispers of his accidental admittance, but he did not care. Only the respite of his room felt comforting. This room was just another terrible reminder.

For a brief moment, Gilgamesh's gaze lifted once more to eye the audience. His peripherals saw Mashu's sympathetic expression as she stood beside her fellow knights. Cleopatra and Nitocris stared with glints of concern, but Ozymandias offered a solemn gaze. Iskandar and Lord El-Melloi II looked at him with apologetic regret, but he paid them no heed. He even caught King Hassan's stoic stare as the mighty assassin, Chaldea's immediate arrival, watched him leave.

His gaze turned forward as Ishtar quickly floated before him. Her red halter dress fluttered around her, but she kept her firm gaze on Gilgamesh. He simply stared back, causing her expression to soften considerably. She turned somber, but remained in his path. They stared quietly until the goddess reluctantly moved out of the way. Without any acknowledgement, he walked past the sympathetic archer and to the doors.

As they slid open, the king walked through calmly. He did not wish to stay and witness the following summonings. There was no point with such despair rolling through his heart. He would only attract further sympathy and apologies from others. Though he currently did not care if he ruined the mood by doing so, that was not what he wanted. The king needed no sympathy.

As the doors closed behind him, the only thing he needed was to be left alone.

:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖЄ ( -III- ) ЭЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:

Enkidu's bedroom was deathly silent with suffocating dread. The guards stood by the closed door, leaving them undisturbed. Gilgamesh sat beside his bed, trying not to listen to his friend's hoarse breathing. He stared at the sheets, trying his hardest not to look at the pained expression on his friend's face. With squinted eyes and rasping breaths, his time was coming to an end.

Gilgamesh could not accept this. After everything they've been through, it all came to an end because he denied Ishtar's marriage proposal. The haughty, temperamental goddess had proved his hatred of the divines by unleashing Gugalanna upon his kingdom. Together, he and Enkidu had ended his rampage, but at the greatest cost imaginable. Discontent with how their weapon faithfully aided his target over them, the gods brought divine judgement upon him.

Now, he lies with his back on the bed and eyes facing the ceiling in agony. He had been fighting it for many long days, but there was no avoiding judgement. With so many authorities in agreement, even Gilgamesh was powerless to stop the inevitable. All he could do now was keep his friend company, and curse himself for putting him in this state. Gilgamesh should be the one being taken by Ereshkigal, not him.

He glanced up, noticing a glistening sight he never saw before. Tears raced down Enkidu's cheeks as he stared upward and rasped. Gilgamesh grit his teeth and shook his head, acknowledging what he saw. After so many years, he was now finally going to spill his regrets. On death's door, he would speak his mind without worry of repercussion. It was the encouraged way of passing in Uruk, and the king braced himself for the harsh truth that would echo in his ears.

"Say it, Enkidu… Say how you regret ever befriending me…" Gilgamesh muttered without a care. His pained gaze met Enkidu's agonized tears. "I will not hold it against you. You, who have always been my friend… You are the only one who is permitted to scold me. Let out your frustrations!"

"…What… are you talking… about… Gil?" Enkidu croaked as another tear rolled down his cheek. He forced a pained smile as he looked at the King of Uruk weakly. "I'll never… regret meeting you... You made… me so happy…"

Gilgamesh's eyes widened in surprise and despair as Enkidu tried to sit up. The man's body groaned quietly beneath his tunic, forcing him back onto the bed. He smiled wistfully and faced the ceiling. "My only regret… is leaving you… alone… I don't want… you to be… by yourself… again…"

:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖЄ ( -IV- ) ЭЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:

With a gasp, Gilgamesh sat up on the couch and breathed hard. Just like when he first received his child self's memorial essence, this one lured him into a dazed state. It was a kind of temporary paralysis, where he wasn't unconscious, but he remained frozen as a memory played before him. It only happened within the first twelve hours after receiving a memorial essence, when the spiritual core was growing used to the new assets. It was why many were encouraged to lay down if the memory attacks proved overwhelming.

Gilgamesh recalled Arturia had lucked out with the Caliburn essence. He did not. It was only the fourth hour of this torment, and that was the seventh time that scene had played.

This time, he was able to stop it before it got to the terrible part. He rubbed his eyes mercilessly, trying to blot out the tear-stained memory of watching Enkidu pass away with a pained smile on his face. It remained, fresher than ever before as it raked his mind. His past roar of desolation echoed in his ears, smothering all other noise. He wished a different scene would come, but the memorial essence did not seem to care.

Only a few times had it spared him with a different scene, like King Gil's ascent of the heavenly mountain. On that calculated stroll, where he knew what would happen, the King of Uruk had found the dying Kingu. Not wanting to watch his friend die again, and knowing what would occur in the future, he gave him the Cup of Uruk so he may be free. By the man's own choice, he then used it to help the Chaldeans. The words of that meeting echoed loudly, but it was yet another vision of a dying Enkidu.

"Are you alright, Gil?" came the feminine voice across from him.

In total shock, he looked up and gazed at Enkidu. The servant sat on the matching red-cushioned couch as the one he rested upon. His white tunic and green hair shined brightly against the burgundy wall of his suite's living room area. With a gentle smile, he gazed at the numb Gilgamesh as he found his voice.

"…Enkidu!? Enkidu you're-!" In a sudden blink, Enkidu was no longer there. Just like when he first arrived in Babylonia, illusions had played tricks on him. In his moment of despair, it seemed these corporeal mind tricks would taunt him once more. He could not muster the energy to feel frustrated and angered at the realization. He only numbly leaned back into the cushions of his couch.

Gilgamesh's outreached hand slowly dropped into the loose pants he had yet to change out of. He chuckled dryly; These clothes, a rare new style from his later days with Enkidu, were worn to help welcome him. With so much done for him, it would make these remaining few hours that much more painful to bear. Still, the king would trudge through it and await the inevitable conclusion.

With every beginning, there would always be an end.

:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖЄ ( -V- ) ЭЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:

Stressed breathing filled Da Vinci's workshop. Among the many new prototypes and laid out blueprints sat the two highest members of Chaldea. At their small wooden table sat the seven major grails in all their glory. Many more were locked away where only Roman and Da Vinci knew, but their concern rested with the ones before them. In particular, the doctor's mounting anxiety kept him gazing incredulously at the newest one which rested between them.

The caster shook her head briefly. "Roman. You've been pulling your hair out since the Fuyuki candlelight vigil last night. Please calm down."

"I can't, Da Vinci!" the acting director yelled as he gripped his head with both hands. With elbows resting atop the table, Roman quietly fumed. His eyes were a mix of frustration and panic, battling each other for domination over the doctor's nerves. With a composed expression, she eyed him quietly, but it did nothing to calm his nerves.

How could it? They were at a roadblock that could not be passed. The seventh grail was supposed to light the way to this Grand Caster's supposed location. It was supposed to contain a map or deliver guidance of some sort that coupled with the tablet Gabrielle had found in Kutha. It was supposed to have something, yet no matter how the two scanned or observed, there was nothing to be found on the grail.

Roman's breathing did not calm, making his friend sigh. "Panicking isn't going to help us decipher this."

"What is there to decipher? It's exactly like the other seven!" he pointed out with a scoff. "It's like this imposter just led us on a giant wild goose chase! He's probably laughing at us right now! He toyed with us! Like he was tricking us the whole time in order to waste our resources!"

"Fixing the singularities wasn't wasting our resources," Da Vinci warned with narrowed eyes. Her gaze softened with another sigh. "Calm down, Roman… This isn't like you. You're letting the stress get to your head."

"I can't help it… We're running out of time!" the doctor admitted with a crestfallen exhale. He shook his head silently, racking his brain to try and figure out what they were missing. Still, his stress welled; The danger was real. There was no denying what failure meant.

If this was their last clue, and it led nowhere, then they could no longer catch the so-called Solomon. He was essentially free to complete his plan, all while laughing at the false hope he gave them. Perhaps that was it the entire time. Even if the singularities threatened the timeline, they were just a distraction from his real act that guaranteed all of it anyway. But how? What could he possibly do that would-

Da Vinci's eyes widened and her head snapped towards the door. She lifted her finger to ensure Roman stayed silent, but he did not need the gesture. Quickly, she recomposed herself, but only by a smidgen, confirming someone was at the door. Due to his state as a regular human and her specialized bounded field, the doctor couldn't sense who. He could only look curiously as the inventor stared in confusion at the door.

"Da Vinci. I was informed you and Roman are in here."

The two stared at each other in surprise. The muffled voice definitely belonged to Gilgamesh. Many in Chaldea, including them, had suspected he would go back to being a recluse, yet only a day after the tragic summoning, he was now at the workshop's door. Da Vinci stood up and stared at the door, confirming he was waiting patiently. It confused the doctor greatly as the inventor moved to answer.

She quickly unlatched the door, revealing the stoic King of Heroes in the hallway, and not in spirit form. His loose, golden hair shined like his signature radial necklace. His hands were in the pockets of his dark, animal print pants, which was coupled with the usual white v-neck. Coupled with that radial necklace, the strap of his personal cord could be seen, with the rest hidden within his shirt.

It was a common look for him, but the dullness in his red eyes was not. Two passing employees gave a wide berth but stared in equal intrigue. Gilgamesh paid no heed, but merely nodded to both of them. "If I am interrupting something important, that was not my intent."

"No… it's alright," Da Vinci mouthed through her astonishment as she gestured for him to enter. "Please come in."

With a quiet nod, Gilgamesh walked inside the room as Da Vinci shut the door again. Roman watched the archer curiously as he stopped to gaze on the grails before him. There was barely a hint of interest and understanding in his eyes as Da Vinci walked back to her seat. After quietly taking her place, she turned back to the archer with a small tilt of her head. "It's… unusual to see you walking around. Do you need something from us?"

"Only a minor request," Gilgamesh replied, making Roman and Da Vinci look at each other in further astonishment. His speech lacked far too much bite with Da Vinci present. Between the two of them, he only ever spoke to Roman with any ounce of politeness. It was almost as unnerving as their current predicament.

The golden archer's eyes remained on the grails as they stayed quiet, allowing him to continue. "…However… It appears you could use a little help yourselves. I will place my inquiry aside if you're having trouble with the seventh grail."

As Gilgamesh turned to look at Roman, the startled doctor blinked. "Um… You knew we were having trouble?"

"It was obvious when I first entered. Your expression spoke volumes," Gilgamesh noted as he turned back to the center grail the doctor had been constantly glancing towards. "Do not let that stress impede you… physician. There is still plenty of time for the riddle to be solved."

"How!?" Roman asked incredulously, startling Da Vinci. "Solomon is-! He's got the world in his palms and we can't find him to stop this! Out of everything we know… He's outside the regular plane of existence! The revelations from that Tablet said it! That means the leyshift system would need another overhaul and-and-! What if this is all just a pyrrhic victory!?"

Da Vinci shot him a warning glare to calm down, but it shattered upon hearing a small chuckle from Gilgamesh. Roman only continued to stare in disbelief at the archer, allowing his fears to overcome the possible repercussions of arguing with Gilgamesh. "This isn't funny, Gilgamesh! We're blinded and helpless! Solomon left us in the dark after leading us into a corner! He's-!"

"He is unbelievably arrogant…" the archer noted as he quietly eyed Roman without a hint of irritation in his expression. As the doctor eyed him curiously, Gilgamesh reached over and gently picked up the seventh grail. He held it before him calmly, gently turning it to let it shine in the lights above. "This is the key piece. It is part of the puzzle Solomon has arrogantly left, believing Chaldea to be incapable of stopping him regardless of the circumstances. He believes he's infallible, but he is not. No one is perfect."

Da Vinci eyed the archer in barely contained disbelief, but Gilgamesh paid it no heed. "If he was at all worried about us, Chaldea would have come under attack by now, but that is not the case. He has the means to easily destroy this plane, but chooses not to do so. He is arrogant, as I would know best. He believes we cannot stop him, and refuses to believe any vision where we succeed. If anyone could understand that, it is I… the King."

"So he is really toying with us… Letting us suffer as he laughs at his victory…" Roman muttered as he leaned back in his seat. To vent his growing frustration, he slammed his hand on the table and cursed under his breath.

"But he's leaving us alone," Da Vinci pointed out hopefully with a small smile. "If he's so arrogant as to give us a chance, we can make him regret his decision. We can continue to figure out why this grail is a key, and if the others have to do with it. We have plenty more clues, Roman! If Gilgamesh is right, we have time! There's no point giving up now when we've worked so hard and come so far."

Gilgamesh huffed with the tiny hints of a smile. "Da Vinci is correct. Do not panic… physician. As entertaining as it is to watch you struggle, it was only because you did so with the intent of reaching a difficult result. Struggling without progress or achievement is not worthy of time or recognition."

With slow breaths, Roman looked at Gilgamesh as he calmly placed the grail back down. "…But how do you know we have time? You're certain? I don't mean to-"

"I know you do not intend offense. I shall permit your insolence," Gilgamesh noted with a calm look, but his eyes remained a touch dull. "My counterpart mimicked clairvoyance of sorts. Though Uruk was his main concern, there were a few obscure glimpses into the future for Chaldea."

With his hand stretched out, Gilgamesh summoned what appeared to be a conceptualized golden atom. Small clock-faces rotated around the baseball-sized depiction of a galaxy, rotating and spinning calmly in a mesmerizing show. It hummed with a light red energy that reflected in its owner's eyes. Roman assumed this was an unseen noble phantasm, but visualized and presented in a way that looked... awfully familiar to how he would have explained to someone.

"Sha Nagba Imuru... It is a piece of the King's authority, which allowed us to see whatever we desired. It allowed him to see Chaldea fighting against him directly in a star-filled world, but he did not probe further. It is something I've always had access to in my mind, but almost never used."

"…Then you can see it too? You can view Chaldea's future for us?" Roman asked hopefully; Access to clairvoyance of any sort beyond the vague reaches of Shiva would be a phenomenal asset. Though Gilgamesh nodded his head, he let down Roman's spirits as the visualized, mental noble phantasm disappeared in a cloud of gold.

"I can, but I shall not allow it. It is enough to know Chaldea still stands in time," Gilgamesh mentioned as he crossed his arms. "I am a king, not a thief. I will not rob the facility of its decisions, efforts, and determination. A king guides, but does not coddle."

Roman quietly nodded as Da Vinci looked at him evenly. "…That's fair then. If… If he was certain we have time, then we'll just have to work hard to ensure it comes true. That's fair, right? If that's the case then… yes. I have to calm the concern growing rampant among the staff. Many are growing restless Solomon will try something, but I'm glad he's not as careful and driven as the one from history."

"Yes… It's as if he's another faker… A mongrel pretending to be something he's not..." Gilgamesh mused out loud before slowly leveling a tiny smirk at Roman. Upon recognizing the glint in his eyes, Roman began to squirm as Da Vinci's eyes widened. "But you knew that already didn't you… Solomon?"

Da Vinci turned a concerned and worried gaze to Roman. His heartbeat had calmed down, as did his breathing. With an unusual sense of calmness, the doctor exhaled and let his expression fall blank. Slowly, he smiled and shook his head. "...So your former counterpart did know."

"And with those memories, now I as well," the archer commented as he folded his arms across his chest. "Your secret will be kept… even from your father. I have no interest in underhanded motives. What I do find interesting, is that as a regular human, you've worked hard and struggled for humanity's sake. Such a selfless act is both foolish and praiseworthy of the highest regard, but give yourself respite. You do not want to die how my counterpart did…"

Roman chuckled lightly, but Gilgamesh shook his head. After all he's witnessed of Gilgamesh in the singularity, the doctor grew hope that perhaps he had turned a slightly new leaf. The memorial essences probably had something to do with it, but Gilgamesh was arrogant and unbelievably selfish; He moved only if he willed it. Maybe his presence here was just the beginning of a different story.

Da Vinci turned to the archer with a small smile. "Sorry, Gilgamesh. We got off track after you were kind enough to give us advice… You said you needed something?"

Gilgamesh's eyes narrowed slightly, making Da Vinci and Roman look at each other tentatively. Slowly, they turned back as the king remained silent. One fist had squeezed a touch tighter with newfound tension, but it was slowly released. Roman's features unconsciously turned sympathetic, but Gilgamesh's eyes quickly lost their troubled sheen. He merely let out a long, near-silent exhale to calm their nerves.

With a glance to Da Vinci, he nodded briefly. "…Ozymandias informed me that in order to create a room in Chaldea, permission must be obtained and proper paperwork filed. To break a rule would mar my name… and I will grudgingly require some assistance."

The two Chaldean heads stared at each other once more with perplexity and total surprise in their eyes.

:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖЄ ( -VI- ) ЭЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:

A passing robot with a plethora of cleaning equipment eyed the passing avengers with its three pupils. Dantes and Joan paid it no heed as they made their way towards Salon de Marie. Both were dressed up fairly well for the small celebration party. The alter's form fitting, off-shoulder black dress matched the count's tuxedo. Even the maroon flower in her hair and his vest matched in color, but that was unintentional. Still, the pale female was a touch miffed.

"They're going to point this out… I know they will. Maybe I should just change."

Dantes shot the woman walking beside him a curious look. "I thought you've become acquainted to Beowulf and Nightingale teasing us?"

Joan shook her head and groaned at her fellow avenger. "They got my sis- Jeanne! They got Jeanne doing it too! She thinks we're secretly dating now!"

"Huh…" Dantes noted with a blank expression. He turned back forward and continued walking, which visibly irritated the alter.

"Don't just huh that! She thinks we're lovers! Don't you care!?" She shot back incredulously with a blush, but Dantes was currently uninterested. He only stared forward in surprise as his eyes shifted slightly to an adjacent hallway. Joan was about to reprimand him further, but she curiously, and a touch nervously, followed his gaze. He could tell she also felt the presence, which baffled him into silence.

On cue, Gilgamesh turned the corner ahead, but he was not in spirit form. The two's pace slowed down in open astonishment as the King of Heroes merely walked in the same direction as the salon. The overhead lights made his spiked hair shine brilliantly. His glossy shoes clapped against the ground quietly as he readjusted the leopard printed suit jacket. After doing so, he simply kept walking and disappeared down another hall towards the elevators.

They stared in open bewilderment. So the gossip of Gilgamesh civilly walking the halls of Chaldea wasn't just a rumor.

:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖЄ ( -VII- ) ЭЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:

Nearly three days passed after returning home to Chaldea, yet Ishtar's muscles were still sore. Due to the obscene number of casualties in Chaldea, and the lack of Merlin, od regeneration was at an all-time low. Having wonderful food helped bit by bit, but it was so extreme that any minor singularities and supply sorties had been put on hold; Chaldea had enough reserves to give a few days respite for the recuperating servants.

At least her injuries were light enough she didn't need to spend any time in the medical wing. Instead, the goddess was free to wander Chaldea like many others since they did not require the accelerated recharge. Her aching muscles beckoned her to, but she never liked the idea of resting in those rather small rooms. She would rather let them heal slowly in her own way.

With this in mind, she was pleasantly spending her time in the resort, enjoying the warm, artificial sunlight. She rested on one of the many oak beach loungers, keeping her eyes closed to let her senses bask in this heavenly bliss. While she lounged in the sun, all she wore was an eye-catching, red monokini with golden accents and a pleasant smile. The rather revealing swimwear exposed much of her stomach and sides to the gentle tropical breeze.

Ishtar breathed out with a smile as the sounds of crashing waves entered her ears. The laughter of Chaldea's child servants echoed in the distance as they played among the waves by the Marina Sector. She considered joining them soon just to change things up, but her body didn't want to move. Its sore muscles loved their current, relaxed state, so appeasing them further wasn't a bad option either. Her decision was made upon hearing shifting sand.

"Mind if I join you, Ishtar?" Slowly, she opened her eyes and smiled at her approaching friend.

"This goddess shall allow you to bask in her presence," Ishtar winked, making both of them giggle. Mata Hari removed her white towel, revealing a daring yellow, strappy bikini that barely contained her chest. She placed the cover down on the lounger and laid herself down.

After tossing a slightly jealous look at her, which caused the assassin to quietly mouth an apology again, Ishtar smiled. "Marie has you working the bar tonight, Maty?"

With a shake of her head, the brunette smiled back. "I have off tonight. Sanson's been handling most of the recent visitors trying to drown their fears."

"Still not calming down?" Ishtar replied, making the assassin shake her head with a small, sad smile.

"They're worried, even after Roman put out the memo. They're still afraid of the what ifs," Mata Hari explained quietly. "We spend so much time among them and each other, sometimes we forget the staff are mostly regular people. Even some of the mages are nervous since Gudao is still unconscious..."

"…Well, hopefully Roman and Da Vinci will figure out a community event to help them calm down," Ishtar offered with a small smile. Her friend nodded back optimistically. "As for our master, he'll be fine so long as Nightingale doesn't go ballistic again."

Mata Hari giggled, "I think Mashu and Gabrielle grew a few white hairs that day… poor thing. I hope he recovers soon."

A soundless release of prana caught their attention, but not in surprise or worry. They turned behind them to look past the empty boardwalk. The source was from the back of the sprawling tropical flower garden where a large, marble-like door had been quickly installed among the rocky cliff façade. Three more bursts originated past those locked doors, though the nearby Asterios only gave the door a tiny glance before returning to his butterfly gazing.

Edison had created the door two days ago, but no one save for Da Vinci, Roman, and a select few knew what Gilgamesh was doing in there. It was a miracle enough that he walked around without causing any sort of commotion, so many tried not to ignite an unintentional fire with their curiosity. It was difficult though. Just being out of his personal suite in a civil manner took getting used to, but to construct an unknown, new room left much to the imagination. What was being built past those doors?

"…What do you think they're making in there?" Ishtar asked quietly as they kept their gaze focused on the grand door.

"Maybe something to let out frustration?" Mata Hari replied as they looked to each other. Ishtar couldn't hide the small concern, and her friend quickly picked up on it. She smiled gently. "You've been rather worried about him… I'm not implying anything, I promise."

Ishtar smiled at her with a small shake of her head, but it slowly faded. "I had a great time in Uruk, all things considered. I made a lot of new memories thanks to Rin's subtle influence… but Gilgamesh… What did he get out of it besides anger and disappointment?"

"It seems he got more people caring about him, that's a definite," the assassin noted with a small, hinting smile. "He's changed. It's incredible to see him present without causing chaos. Sure he still glares and makes some rough comments… but compared to before?"

"Chaldea got the most out of this," Ishtar replied with a shrug. "He's more civil… but what does he get out of it? He deserves to get something after all this."

"And you say I'm thoughtful. Maybe I'm rubbing off on you?" the brunette commented with a small giggle. "It's alright if you're still feeling guilty for what you did back then, but you weren't accountable for anything that happened to him this time. You tried to help out of your guilt and optimism, and that's incredible... You're a beautiful goddess, I don't care what your legend says about you."

Ishtar expressed a small smile and nodded. "…Thank you for praising me so openly. I guess I should stop worrying… This is Gilgamesh, after all. Maybe it's just a phase for him and he'll get over it. Who's to say Enkidu can't still arrive?"

"That's the spirit!" Mata Hari nodded happily in agreement as they turned back to the door.

Truthfully, Ishtar might have just said that to reassure herself. That look she saw in his eyes that day bothered her to no end. Gilgamesh should never have a look of self-loathing and acceptance joined together; That's not who he was. Despite her belief he will arrive, it was clear through his eyes he didn't believe any longer. It had pained her to see that look, which nearly matched his expression on that tragic day.

It was a ridiculous thought, truthfully. Ishtar, the goddess who bore a hatred for the king after his rejection for her, was feeling sorry and hopeful for him. She, who loathed his comments and decisions over her friends, wanted him to find some peace. It was an absurd train of thought, but not one she could deny. She observed his civility grow over time, but his happiness was the final cost.

Hopefully, if fate didn't grant him his peace, karma would. After turning a new leaf, she had been rewarded handsomely with friends and experiences. He had only recently done so, but maybe he would still get his lingering desire. Maybe Enkidu would arrive sooner rather than later, but there was still the undeniable fact the wait may be long; How many servants had they encountered that weren't summoned here?

All she could do was hope someone would reward him, and restore that proper balance of confidence in his eyes.

:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖЄ ( -VIII- ) ЭЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:

"You should have seen the dumbfounded look on the boy's face when I finally revealed who Jaguarman's possessed body belonged to!" Iskandar laughed, making Ozymandias join him heartily from across the Salon's booth. The bigger rider clutched his tight fitting, red polo to breathe, while Ozymandias kept his arms crossed over his black dress shirt which exposed his torso. With slow breaths, they calmed their laughter.

"To think she was the girl you tried to set him up with in the grail war! The wonders of fate are at work!" the olive-skinned rider replied as he picked up his wine glass. He moved to take a sip, but tiny mewls caused an eruption of giggles and coos.

With knowing smirks, the two riders turned towards their fellow pharaohs. Both wearing white, strapless dresses, the two females were busy fussing over their newest gifts from Ozymandias. For their praiseworthy efforts, he finally gifted them their own sphinx kittens from a more promising litter, who currently played on the booth seat between them. Nitocris' headpiece twitched in joy as her tiny, celestial pet tried to grab a rubber ball from the other. They fell into more giggles that made the males chuckle.

"I don't think the girls will be talking much this evening," Iskandar noted as he took a swig of his wine glass. A robot quickly floated over to fill it back up. "So… I assume goldie doesn't want you to talk about what you're helping with."

"That is correct. I can assure you, however, it was not what I expected it to be, but I bring honor to us pharaohs by assisting," Ozymandias commented, making his companion raise an eyebrow curiously. "Tell me, Iskandar... There are many rumors floating around about Gilgamesh now, but have you heard the one regarding the photos?"

There were many rumors floating about, to be fair. Though none were demeaning, it would have likely irritated the archer had he heard any; There was no sign he did. The most popular were that his mind played tricks on him whenever he paused and stared blankly at a random spot. There were also some confirmed ones, like how he stared at the moon at night. The photos rumor was among one of the more recent, however.

"I do recall hearing something about him asking Mashu and George about pictures from the last singularity," Iskandar stated as he grabbed one of the breads rolls from the basket. "I presume by raising this, there is truth to that one."

"Once more, you are right. He did ask for pictures, but did not ask them to keep it secret either," Ozymandias pointed out with a smirk. "This is because the room should be done by this evening, when we place the finishing touches after he joins us for dinner."

On cue, Ozymandias' eyes turned towards the salon door as Gilgamesh walked in wearing a red dress shirt and black formal pants. He smoothed the popped collar to hide the cord beneath and eyed the pharaohs as he approached. Iskandar calmly moved over to give him room while a scarce few others glanced at him quietly. Over the past four days, seeing the King of Heroes for dinner was expected. It was unusual, but it seemed to be a new guarantee.

It made him feel daring enough to ask Gilgamesh about the room later that supper.

:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖЄ ( -IX- ) ЭЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:

To the surprise of both pharaohs, Gilgamesh had allowed Iskandar to follow them to the room afterward. "Helena and Edison should be arriving shortly."

"So she was the third assistant…" Iskandar noted as he gazed around the impressively large addition to Fantasia Resort.

Its spacious ceiling glowed with an amber glow from the prana braziers Ozymandias had created around the room. His help had done a marvelous job, since the marble-like walls, floor, and columns around the room looked perfect. In the spacious center, seven display walls and pedestals rested in a symmetrical layout, giving room to walk between them. In the very center rested a large brazier which projected its warmth to any who would sit on its bordering benches.

Iskandar had looked around in curiosity, but stopped to join Ozymandias in watching Gilgamesh, who stood between them before one of the seven central display walls. He had remained silent since their arrival while the pharaohs talked to each other. Without a word, he had opened a horizontal portal that gently deposited a large, modern chest on the ground. He opened it silently, revealing batches of large color prints from the latest singularity, secured aesthetically onto oak wood backers.

The King of Conqueror nodded with a smirk as his suspicions were confirmed. The room was spacious and welcoming, including the large doors that Asterios could walk through with ease. It had always been the intent to beckon any to visit, because this was a showroom. With every detail in its design, it was supposed to mimic a modern art museum with proper displays. However, what surprised him was that this wasn't just for Babylonia.

This space, roughly a hectare in size, had ample room for everything Chaldea has been through and much more.

Carefully, Gilgamesh pulled one of the larger photographs out. It depicted his counterpart sitting on the throne with a smirk with Siduri standing beside him with a warm smile. He gazed upon it before looking once more at the large display wall before him. He raised the large print onto the wall, clearly trying to see where it would best fit.

Iskandar looked around the room, noting three more unused door frames, and smiled. "…One for every singularity, and plenty space for expansion. No wonder it was approved."

Gilgamesh nodded. "I'm calling this room Memorial Hall. I'll open the doors tomorrow so anyone else may add to the empty sections... I trust word will get out quickly so the other displays may be filled in a timely manner. This room's splendor must not be delayed."

With a smile, the rider nodded as Ozymandias walked over to assist with hanging the first portrait. Even as he endured lasting disappointment and frustration, Gilgamesh had decided to stick with his newfound outlook. This consideration for everyone else was not usual, but it made sense. If there was one thing he respected, it was results and worthy treasures. For him to commission a room that showcased Chaldea's acts of defiance against all odds was more than understandable.

This hall was going to be a treasure trove of memories when other servants helped fill it.

:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖЄ ( -X- ) ЭЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:

Soft beeping stirred Gudao from his slumber. As he released a small hum, some gasps filtered into his ears. Quietly and slowly, he opened his tired eyed but forced them shut. The light was far brighter than he remembered it to be. Quietly, he batted his eyes and groaned as he slowly adjusted to his conditions.

"Senpai!" Mashu cried out next to him. With another groan, but a small smile, he turned his blurry vision towards her just as gentle arms wrapped around him. He relished in her embrace and reached to return it. That's when he felt the slight ache in his muscles and the IV in his arm. Still, he happily embraced Mashu as his memories cascaded into him.

Right. He had been injured, but he stayed conscious long enough to use a command seal for Gilgamesh. Everything was a touch blurry after that, but he did recall getting knocked on the head or something. The details were rough, but at least the hug was warm. There was no annoying headache either, but his vision was blurry.

"…I guess… I was out…?" He asked weakly. His mouth was sickly dry, but Mashu didn't care as she gently pecked his lips. She broke away just as Gabrielle took her turn wrapping her arms around him; His face was covered by her orange hair, so he was certain it was her.

"You worried Mashu and I. Hell, everyone…" Gabrielle murmured as she pulled away. She smiled somberly as Fou quietly hopped onto the bed to sit down between him and Mashu. "You've been unconscious for eight days…"

Gudao blinked. Then he blinked again. His vision was gaining clarity, but he fell perplexed. "…Eight… days?"

"Jeanne was struck by charging enemies and she went flying into you…" Mashu began, but Gudao quickly reached for her blurry hand to hold it. He rubbed it soothingly so she wouldn't start blaming herself. She smiled apologetically to him. "…Sorry."

"I should be the one apologizing to everyone…" He chuckled lightly. "I didn't mean to worry everyone."

Finally, with a few blinks and a rub of his aching arm, his vision cleared. Slowly, he looked around the medical room. The quiet beeps of the heart monitor kept going, and the IV cord gave him plenty of maneuver room. It's been a long time since he was actually in a modern medical setting, and not getting healed through magecraft, so it felt unusual. The clothes were far comfier than he remembered.

Gudao looked to Mashu as she held his hand in the adjacent seat. He had expected her in the Chaldean uniform, so the yellow spaghetti-strapped dress was a surprise. Glancing at Gabrielle, he saw she was also in casual garb, specifically a blue tank top and jeans. He was curious how much he missed, or if they had done anything. They'd likely fill him in soon enough, so he tossed the concerns aside.

What completely caught him off guard was Gilgamesh leaning against the back wall quietly with a calm expression. Curiously, he wore beige baggy pants and an open-front blue vest that looked like his wardrobe in Uruk. It likely was one of many clothes the king reacquired from his visit, so he gave it no further thought. It was even coupled with the precious cord around his neck. As the loose haired blonde closed the door, his thoughts returned to why he was even soundlessly present for that matter.

Before he could ask, he gently took the glass of water Gabrielle offered him. Without hesitation, he sipped it quickly as she put it to his mouth, relishing the cool liquid as it sprinted down his throat. He smiled as she pulled the glass away. Gabrielle chuckled, "I'm glad we're accidentally the ones to find you awake… Arturia's hosting a small dinner party in the Camelot Room, so Mashu and I thought we'd visit you before going."

"I wake up before nighttime? I thought I slept enough as is…" Gudao groaned, making the two giggle.

Finally, Gilgamesh spoke, making Fou's ears twitch. "It appears your body made up for lost time. You put forth commendable effort those last few days."

"Roman had a panic attack at first…" Mashu explained quietly. "Da Vinci is working fast to finish a device to check for leyshift compatibility. Between Gabrielle's leap and your loss of consciousness, they want to see if we can get additional masters as soon as possible."

"…I understand… and that'd be nice, honestly…" Gudao admitted as he scratched the back of his head. He wondered if it was Roman's turn to yell at him this time. He'd gladly accept it. "Again… sorry for making all of you worry."

"There was only so much you could do. That battle was anarchy," Gilgamesh offered, which surprised the other three. Gudao was expecting to be reprimanded, but instead- "It is well enough that you are alright. The king is pleased… With that, I shall take my leave to permit you all privacy."

With only a small nod, Gilgamesh walked to the door and silently exited the room. Gudao was stumped. He thought he would go into spirit form, but he just watched Gilgamesh just casually walk away. This had to be a dream, so maybe he was still unconscious? Seeing his dumbfounded expression, Gabrielle giggled and smiled.

"We have a lot to explain to you, but only a bit of time…" she began, but observed her best friend prodding at his shirt and looking around. "Oh! Quick thought! Your upgraded battlesuit has been repaired and is back in your closet, but we left your satchel alone even if the strap is broken. It's here... though if felt a tad heavy. Were you collecting boulder catalysts or something?"

"Not intentionally..." He sighed as his best friend laughed. That was one satchel damaged and another lost in roughly a week. He should at least empty it of any debris and remains before bringing it to Naomi. "...I'll just clean it later after you two leave."

"Not while you're recovering, you don't," Mashu warned with a small frown, making Gudao quickly raise his hands.

"Right. Got it. Um, let's change topics then… How many new servants did we manage to summon…? If we tried I mean."

Mashu and Gabrielle looked to each other tentatively, making Gudao fall worried. His girlfriend turned to him quietly, "King Hassan arrived by his own means... But we only managed to summon Jaguarman, Senpai. We tried using a catalyst but it... failed..."

He had a gut feeling what he was about to hear was not a pleasant topic either.

:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖЄ ( -XI- ) ЭЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:

Gilgamesh walked away from Memorial Hall, not bothering to glance at the flowers around him. He had been inside since Gudao's awakening. Many found him silently staring at the Babylonia display, and he remained there until he was the only visitor. During gaps in his reminiscing state, he noticed some of the other singularity walls also had complete collections. There were even a few thank you notes on the donated guest book aimed his way.

He was satisfied the room was quickly embraced, which made for a boat of pride in his sea of disappointment.

The gentle laps of waves and the calm breeze caressed his senses, but it didn't move him. He only took his first steps onto boardwalk as he kept his mind from brooding and wandering. Unconsciously, he stared across the empty beach towards the spot the simulated moon sat. It existed only as a dark patch in the sky, but he knew it would be there. He had looked at it every night since he recovered from that memorial essence.

Stopping quietly, he stared at the moon well above the horizon. He found himself walking unconsciously towards it, just as he had every other night. After descending one of the few wooden steps, his sandals gently squished against the soft sand. He walked quietly until he stood beneath one of the scattered palms and stopped, staring intently at the moon and its cradle of shimmering stars.

As the breeze blew his loose hair and the cord around his neck, he stood there and let the questions and grievances flow through his mind. The tension cascaded from him, and he felt his fists flex and relax with the emotional flux. He let all of it out silently, releasing his frustrations and acknowledging his situation again, as he did every night. Gilgamesh was here, because this is all he deserved after everything.

Quietly, he closed his eyes and listened to the ocean. His silent ritual would finish with another occurrence after this, like a daily routine. The next part was always the most frustrating, but there was no avoiding it. His mind sought only one thing, and it did everything to remind him throughout the day, regardless of what he did. Still, he opened his eyes as he heard the telltale signs of the illusion.

Footsteps crunched gently in the sand behind him as always. Quietly, the figure made their way around the thought-flooded king to stand beside him. He felt their eyes upon him, just as he had every time one appeared. He sighed, steeling himself to ensure that this time, they would not just meet silently. Even if the illusion couldn't hear, he couldn't allow it to torment his vision and hearing any longer. He had to truly move on in reluctant acceptance, which was something his former counterpart could never fully achieve.

This time, he would do both of them proud by taking those steps. The king should not be one to drown in somber thought, nor should he be assaulted by tormenting illusions. He would always miss his friend, but he couldn't let it hamper who he was. His cherished friend would not want to see him crushed and stagnant, but satisfied and looking ever forward to become greater. He had to become everything Enkidu believed he could...

…even if it meant doing it without him.

So, with one last exhale, he steeled himself and turned towards the green-haired illusion beside him. Every night, these ones lingered longer in his sight, as if to taunt him. This one would no doubt do the same. His friend stared at him in surprised delight and breathed, "…Gil."

"Enkidu… please listen…" Gilgamesh began quietly as the illusion's face fell into confusion. His red eyes stared into his green orbs, seeing the stars reflect in them. "…I should have listened to you sooner."

"…What do you mean, Gil?" How his mind would fabricate imaginary conversations did not make this easier, but he had to put this all to rest. For once, he needed to let go.

"…You tried to show me so much, yet I was blinded by my own arrogance. Even though I believed I understood, I didn't… You saw the hidden potential I couldn't even see in myself," Gilgamesh declared as he faced the moon again. "As my friend, you were considerate, yet hopeful. You wanted me to see how much better I could become. You subtly guided me, as I guided my people, but I did not see… I did not understand how much I took you for granted, and I am ashamed for doing so."

"Gil…" Enkidu spoke softly, making the next words more difficult.

"That's why I'm certain now… after everything that's happened in this past singularity… I don't deserve the right to call you my friend or be in your presence. I believed I was perfect, but it was really you who was," Gilgamesh admitted as he clenched his fists. "You… who dealt with everything I was yet still appreciated me. You, whose selfish, dying wish was the hope I would not be sad and alone… I failed you."

"…Gil, are you alright?"

The King of Heroes chuckled dryly and shook his head. "…I'll be fine, Enkidu. I'll manage without you somehow… I'll continue trying to be what you always believed I could become if only to make you proud... It will be difficult and unbearable, but fate has decreed I am not worthy of you."

He stared quietly at the moon with a sad smile. "Farewell, Enkidu. I now understand… I don't believe I ever held the right to have a friend as perfect as you…"

"Gil! What's happened? …Why are you talking like this?" Gilgamesh turned back to the illusion that faced him in slight confusion, wondering why it was so persistent and corporeal-

He froze. Time stopped as he looked into the troubled and emotional eyes of the supposed illusion. Slowly, his shaking eyes looked down at the calm hand that gently grasped his upper arm in worry. His breath hitched in his throat, and he stared at the fingers that gently rested between the ruffled folds of his loose shirt. Over the pounding silence of his heartbeat, Enkidu's voice called out, "Gil!? …Please say something! I'm concerned!"

"…Enkidu…?" Gilgamesh spoke in total shock. Enkidu stared back at him with curiosity, but mostly anxiety and alarm. His tunic and hair blew gently the air, as did the cord of friendship. Slowly, Gilgamesh reached up with his free arm. It touched the arm that grasped his own, feeling the warmth from the skin. His eyes widened further as he reached for the man's shoulder. It rested gently on it, feeling the warmth again through the tunic.

Finally, his numbed senses flared open with his racing mind. He could feel the spiritual core before him, that matched his own in energy. There was no mistaking the warmth he felt, nor the voice and concern. As the green-haired man tilted his head in slight confusion, Gilgamesh happily realized, as he dropped his arm in shock, that this…

…this Enkidu wasn't an illusion.

His mind was scrambling for answers as he stood there in total silence. He was unsure how much time passed, but he remained frozen like a statue in realization. Enkidu patiently stood before him, grasping his arm as the time slipped by. Slowly, a smile spread on his friend's face as he looked into the archer's eyes with a small chuckle. "…Gil… You're crying. The King of Uruk should never cry."

It was true. His eyes had watered, and his vision was partially blurred. One tear had raced down his cheek, but it matched the one that fell down Enkidu's own. There were no sniffles, but merely silence as Gilgamesh found his voice. He smiled warmly, "…You are too, Enkidu… It's… You're not an illusion… It's really you!"

"Yes, Gil. I'm here, and so are you!" Enkidu blissfully chuckled as he let go of his friend's sleeve. He looked towards the archer's own cord as his smile grew. "I didn't know what you were saying… I got scared. I thought you were abandoning me!"

"I could never abandon you!" Gilgamesh quickly added as he stared at his friend with teary eyes. "…I just believed I couldn't be with my friend ever again… I missed you."

As Enkidu smiled at the archer with more tears threatening to spill, it was then they heard sniffles. In his previously numbed state, Gilgamesh did not realize they weren't alone. He turned with Enkidu to see Gabrielle and Mashu keeping Gudao supported at the foot of the stairs, but he could sense servants further away. In the dim light, he could see they wore mismatched sweatpants and shirts, as if they changed in a rush. Gabrielle's messy, loose hair helped prove that. It was a little past midnight, to be fair.

Gabrielle wiped at her crying eyes but smiled, matching Mashu's own emotions. Gudao simply stared at them with a calm smile as Fou wagged its tail by his feet. Even if they were being watch, the king did not wipe the lone tear trail. He didn't care who saw them. Enkidu smiled and gently pointed to the trio. "After being summoned, Master Gudao was in an excited rush so we hurried here. He said you would be the one to give me a proper tour of Chaldea now that I'm summoned."

Gilgamesh blinked in confusion. Gudao knew he was going to summon Enkidu? But how was that- "It turns out I had the other perfect catalyst by accident… My satchel had the second cord for some reason… Sorry it took me so long to wake up."

It clicked. There were always two cords, and his counterpart had brought it with him to the final battle, but did not wear it. He quickly perused the memory, but it was not him that put the cord in the satchel. By sheer luck, it had fallen inside. Accident or not, Gilgamesh couldn't help but chuckle at the master's luck. Enkidu looked at him curiously, but smiled.

"I see… It was very considerate of you not to let I, the King, wait any longer," Gilgamesh commented, feeling his pride and confidence seep back into his voice. It made the present trio smile brighter as Enkidu chuckled. "Intentional or not, you've made me more than satisfied. You've brought Enkidu to my side once more, a friend more valuable than any treasure I could wish for! …Thank you, master. Thank you."

"G-Gudao-! He... He just thanked you twice and called you master!" Gabrielle stammered with a hushed voice. Her eyes nearly fell out of their sockets and Fou's ears were sky high in astonishment. Though Mashu was almost as stunned, she smiled with Gudao while Gilgamesh and Enkidu laughed.

"Do not be mistaken. I, the King, shall always stand at the top, but I acknowledge your shining worth as one truly worthy to be called my master," Gilgamesh declared as Enkidu gladly looked between them. "As such, I have no qualms admitting my gratitude to you, Gudao."

"You're welcome, Gilgamesh. I said I'd pay you back sometime," Gudao nodded happily.

Gilgamesh smirked proudly at his master, which he now acknowledged more than any other. A rather average man and magus, but one with determination and a simple wish. As his counterpart overheard in the Underworld after Ereshkigal's defeat, Gudao only wished people to find happiness because he was happy. It was straightforward and unbelievably simplistic, but it was pure and an honest goal he often achieved. This time, he achieved it for him, and that was beyond praiseworthy.

"Gudao Fujimaru… Should you ever require my aid, all you must do is ask, and both of us shall answer," Gilgamesh declared with his signature, proud smirk, making Gabrielle fall into more sputters of surprise. He looked fondly towards Enkidu and nodded slightly. "Was it fair I spoke for both of us, my friend?"

Enkidu laughed brightly. "That's fine, Gil. It makes me happy just spending time with you, so of course I'll follow along!"

The male master chuckled, but it turned into a yawn. Gabrielle and Mashu smiled at him, but they too caught the contagious act. Gilgamesh chose to advise, "Get rest, master. Straight back to sleep for all of you. I shall give Enkidu a proper tour and show him to the room I prepared."

"Goodnight, you two. Have a pleasant evening," Mashu offered as she made it a point to lead their group away. Gilgamesh and Enkidu briefly watched them leave. The lancer quickly turned to the distant waters with curiosity. As the archer turned to his friend, Enkidu's bare feet quietly compelled him towards the lapping waves. With a small smile, Gilgamesh followed as Enkidu swiftly and blissfully strode to the waters.

As expected, Enkidu's eyes widened as the warm waves splashed against his feet. He wiggled his toes and walked about the wet sand as the soothing waters caressed his lower legs. Gilgamesh followed him in, letting his pants and sandals get wet without a care. Enkidu happily relished the nighttime ocean and looked to his friend in awe.

"This was all created? But it feels real! It feels like true nature," the lancer commented as he stared up at the stars. His eyes landed upon the distant moon above as a slightly larger wave soaked more of his clothes. "There's a moon too! …Do you still stare at it often, Gil?"

"Only recently… I can tell you more about it after the tour. I have many stories you will find interesting, but there is no rush. We have plenty of time now."

After Enkidu happily nodded back, Gilgamesh smiled and turned to the distant, dark orb. Quietly, he gave thanks as he acknowledged the true hidden message. It matched this moment perfectly. Perhaps, out of all the divines, he really did look after him more than he ever acknowledged. Coincidence or not, he accepted the final message and the new beginning. Gilgamesh smiled, nodding one last time towards Sin and his domain in genuine appreciation.

Gilgamesh contently followed his curious friend as they strolled across the gentle waves towards the forest, all while the stars shined down upon them.

.

:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:

The End

:¦:ЭЖФЖФЖФЖЄ:¦:

.

Final Words

You've completed the second supplement of the Fragments Series!
This one was also supposed to be short, but it would have been a theft to Gilgamesh. He deserved better.

This means you can proceed to Fragment 48 with full understanding and comprehension of all new developments!
Or, if you didn't read Fragments, you can just be glad it's all over.

To the readers who took the time and gave it a shot, thanks for sticking with it!
I'm going to give a special thanks to ffure21 and SKYS for all the help you've given! Thanks much!

I hope you've left this feeling content.
To the continuing readers, see you back in typical, crazy Chaldea!
To everyone else, thanks once again!

~GhostXavier