Finis Chaldea

[Bloodedge]

"Hmph," was the only utterance Gilgamesh offered to Jeanne's proclamation. Vigilance was necessity in the current state of Chaldea, by none more than himself in one way, and by none more than one of Jeanne's ilk in an entirely different sense. As years passed in the realm above, darkness swept the land in various ways. Gilgamesh looked beyond the visage of the Queen of Saints, and determined that her type was necessary, yet undeserved for the masses of Finis Chaldea. The world at large would grasp and claw at her very core. It would aim to tear her limb from limb, and its first targets would be mind and soul. Perhaps the title Queen of Saints would serve her well... but it would just as easily destroy her, as the King of Heroes saw it.

It seemed Artoria had graced this world with her presence for approximately one century. She spoke of the sword Caliburn restricting her age in the physical sense, but otherwise, she was the older of the siblings standing before him. Well... such a restriction had to be rather easy to overcome, he believed. If she was meant to be older, and a being of this world, surely it was she who'd been meant to bear the form he foresaw. Why could he have seen her that way, if it was no longer a possibility? He seemed to see many potential futures, not simply that which would undoubtedly occur. In recent times, he'd discovered the ability to guide himself in the direction of an ideal outcome─ but where was the eventuality of that buxom bride who could wear no eyes but those? He had to look deeper, to find everything hidden within Artoria's core. Once that piercing gaze bypassed her perpetually young body, what he found was... nothing with such a name. "You possess the Holy Sword, Excalibur, and the Armor of the Uncrowned King. Where is this Caliburn you speak of if it has such ability?"

[Apollymi]

Ah, he had nothing else to say. Everyone had about that reaction as well. It was like they worried for her well-being beyond the norm. Of course, she was quite used to that amount of worry, she was the youngest child. Given this she simply smiled as she always would. They really didn't need to worry so much, even so Artoria looked over at her younger sister and sighed. Truly the world at large didn't deserve her, and Jeanne herself would never truly get why other people said such a thing. Perhaps this was why she could be called Queen of Saints. Valuing others above yourself was a special brand of martyrdom that most would never know, and one Eri didn't initially intend for her younger sister.

But what was this? Apparently the Golden King had more to ask about Artoria. Well, she was amused by the lions she was still petting so she would answer his inquiries about her nature. Of course, she had no idea why this was being asked of her, but explaining to someone who'd have to deal with her the nature of her as a creature wasn't really a problem. "That is a cheat amount of information to be able to see about a person," she commented before answering his question. "The Sword of Proving, Caliburn was the first sword I picked up. It is the reason I could be recognized as King...hm Queen eventually," she explained of herself. "But I was young when I picked it up, and I broke it with my actions..." she explained of the situation. Still petting those lions there was just a hint of nostalgia behind her eyes. "I miss that sword. But because I broke it I no longer carry it," she said. "I used my spear to slay the dragon Vortigern, and was handed Excalibur at a later time when I needed a sword," that was all the explanation Artoria was willing to offer. But the armor she wore made her sister frown deeply. "Why are you wearing the Armor of the Uncrowned King? You were crowned, upgrade or at least wear the headpiece," she said to her sister. "I am not interested in having a crown be in my way," Artoria's words made her sister scoff. But it made a great deal of sense. "Well, that explains the hair at least."

[Bloodedge]

Cheating, was he? Nonsense. It was only sensible that one of his magnitude possessed the ability to see all that she was, and all that she could be. His response would be a... simple one. "It is natural that I, Gilgamesh, see into the depths of your soul. Just as all things of value in this world originate from my treasury, all gifts bestowed upon mankind are mere replicas of my own abilities," he stated. Though pompous even as a casual mention, there was nothing but truth to his words. He'd once told this very same woman that all treasures in this world belonged to him, and when she spoke of Caliburn as the Sword of Proving, he raised a hand to indirectly grant a sample of proof. "H'oh?" Three Divine Gates appeared around the king, each one producing a magnificent blade in sequence. First was the original and strongest model of the "Sword of Proving" which, to Gilgamesh's knowledge, did not exist outside his treasury. "This one?" he asked, though a similar yet slightly less ornate weapon of more demonic origins soon emerged from the second gate. "This one?" he asked again. The second sword had been copied just once, at which point it was re-forged with demonic influence. Such a weapon would be seen as a rival to Excalibur and Merodach in some cases, but alas... the third sword to show itself had been forged in the second's mold, made golden and more ornate than either of its predecessors. "Or perhaps this?" Three swords were displayed, yet Gilgamesh knew only one of them by name: Merodach. Still, it was worth putting on display. Perhaps there was another of that one out in the world somewhere, renamed on its path as Caliburn.

[Apollymi]

Artoria's eyes flickered over Gilgamesh in the moment. The words he spoke gave her a certain degree of animosity, but perhaps that was its own form of appreciation. One could say that there was once a time in Artoria's life when she could have spoken a similar sentence about her own skills in one aspect or another. Rather, she would have killed someone questioning her prowess and moved on with her day as if nothing was amiss. Jeanne on the other hand had never heard such a sentence she laughed aloud knowing he was absolutely serious. "Haha..." she covered her own mouth immediately though there was quite a bit of glee present in those sapphire eyes of hers. "I'd like to wake a single day with that sort of confidence..." she mentioned. She was quite sure that was absolutely inhuman.

Whatever the case, Artoria's endorphin rush was on the way down. Still petting big cats was among her favorite things to do, so she'd continue for a while yet. And what was this, glowing portals appeared around Gilgamesh each of them producing a sword each one similar yet ever so slightly different. Was he aiming to figure out which one was the one she spoke of? He'd once said all treasures in the world belonged to him, she supposed in the moment he actually meant it, but that didn't make it any less annoying for her. "You really have everything... that is absolutely cheating," she said in a manner most resolute. She'd decided in this moment the reason he thought so highly of himself was a combination of his own random wealth in this time, and his lack of competition. It is really easy to lose track of humanity when you are surrounded by worship. As for the swords she studied each her right hand opened gently and then closed as she withdrew it. She pointed towards the one he'd shown which was most ornate in nature. "That one, seems to be the most like Caliburn... sword drawn from the stone, which grants agelessness to the one who picks it up. Proving who should become King or something like that... I really loved that sword," she said that last part softly, that extra nostalgia was quite real in the moment. She'd actually legitimately been heartbroken when she'd damaged it beyond repair. "Your attachment to your weapons is still a bit ridiculous... though I understand, it's alright, Eri-nee~" said Jeanne. She knew her sister was a bit fanatical about weapons and their usage, but that was a habit created before.

[Bloodedge]

Jeanne spoke of confidence, while Gilgamesh spoke only truth. It was blatantly obvious to him that his abilities and possessions were all the mark of human capacity. Just the same, it was officially his place in the world to observe how humans developed those things once they got their hands on them. Artoria herself had proved such a development when they battled. Now, she proved only that her broken sword was a mere replica of something that belonged in his collection. When she gazed upon the blade, she did so with longing. Gilgamesh reached out to take that third sword into his hand, at which point he viewed it while keeping the brunt of his focus on the Queen of Knights. There really was no mistaking those eyes. If anywhere in this world there was such thing as an emerald flame, there it was, connected directly to her optic nerves. To think his vision had been anyone else would be a sin. So then, why would he even consider stopping his pursuit of her? There she was, petting a lion well beyond the point of it being entertaining, while the two of them had a strangely civil discussion. How could things go south from there?

"Of course it broke. Look at it! As well as being the third generation of my Merodach, this is clearly an ornamental sword barely fit for true combat. It is but a king's trophy, the proof of a warrior ruler that can not be seen in some paltry crown. Any beneath the sovereign have no right to touch such a marvel as this." Gilgamesh offered this speech while holding out this Caliburn, not in offering but as a method of viewing both it and Artoria simultaneously. The way she saw this sword was quite similar to the way he saw her, strangely enough. Ah, but that would only last so long on both counts. "Hmph. Perhaps this blade will act as our altar one day, and the ceremony's conclusion shall come as you draw it as your replacement for that broken thing. When all that is done, I will exemplify for you what is truly unfair about the King of Heroes~"

[Apollymi]

Artoria had been petting the lion well past her initial infatuation. That being said, she didn't dislike it at all, it gave her something to do with her hands. Much like cleaning weapons used to, it gave her an outlet for energy she normally would have spent being, cross. Well, that wasn't entirely true, Gilgamesh took hold of the weapon she'd pointed out as being the one she thought of. And seeing it in his hand, she had a level of certainty, which made a small smirk appear on her face. Still, what was this? A claim was made that such a weapon was barely fit for combat, and that anyone not titled king shouldn't be allowed to touch it, a laugh escaped her then, they were obviously very different. "There is no way to prove being a warrior other than being one. There is no use in a weapon with a dull edge to prove sovereignty," she said. Jeanne chuckled, her sister hadn't changed much at all. "Besides, they may not have the right to hold it, but any can earn the right to die by it, in my hands..." she said at last. "Well, that used to be the truth..." Artoria said those words and meant them. She'd already broken that sword once, it would be unlikely for her to wield it again. At her current strength, she'd definitely shatter it.

Artoria stood then, looking at Gilgamesh there was a smile on her face, but was it friendly? Yes or no? Somewhat. She didn't like what Gilgamesh had to say about their apparent future wedding. Artoria hadn't scared him into submission with a near death experience? Maybe, if she had any understanding of her own feelings, she might have found that attractive. But, right now she didn't really. No, she found it annoying. "You annoy me, King Gilgamesh..." she said immediately. Respectful but spikey. Yes, that was the right word. The King of Heroes was an annoyance, though apparently a more than reasonable king so she could leave him be, respectfully. Still she had been turned away from Jeanne for a few seconds too long and she wasn't sure how her sister took his final statement. "Oi, Eri-nee..." she said which made Artoria turn around, holding up her hands in surrender as her armor returned to her person. "I really wouldn't you know... Saint of Restraint they should call you~" she mentioned in a joking manner. Of course her sister did know her well enough to know that there were circumstances which would make her draw a weapon immediately, but apparently pet therapy did a world of good for her. Beyond that, she was a woman of her word, but still, Hoshimi Emi had once been responsible for wrangling the lives of all of her siblings, such was a minor showing of this. "I won't be back for a while yet... perhaps between now and then you can re-evaluate your thoughts on me, I have a whole kingdom of my own to look after. I would not add you to it," she said peacefully. "Still, I would like to know what would make my upward transition easier on you... you are already drowning in paperwork," ah there it was. A smirk came to Jeanne's face, respectful distance, ignoring things she found annoying to get a job done with as little fuss as possible. That was Hoshimi Eri.

[Bloodedge]

Such innocence it took for one to find a ceremonial sword fit for combat in any way. No, that wasn't it at all; it wasn't innocence. What Artoria possessed just beneath the surface, right under the shell of chivalry she wore like a fine garb, there was... murder. The woman behind the Avatar was one who killed without remorse, without hesitation, and without a care that a tool which could kill, was not necessarily made to not kill. She would disrespect a treasure worth the entire world by thrusting it into someone's gullet. Upon having this realization, Gilgamesh grinned. They were more similar than Artoria could yet know, based on his lack of treasury key during their fight.

Apparently, he managed nothing but to annoy the Queen of Camelot. As if he needed to be told that; it was written all over her face and demeanor. With a snicker, he tossed the original version of Caliburn aside, leaving it to vanish into his treasury along with the other two blades. "In time, Queen of Knights, your eyes will open," he proclaimed as if certain. In fact, he was. In seeing one future possibility and determining that he'd seen the bride Artoria Pendragon, it was almost by royal decree that he determined that future would come to pass. "Seek your grail and temper your knights. Your absence will be but a blink, though just as much an eternity." It seemed that was all there would be to their little back-and-forth. Artoria presented her request for information, but it mattered not. There was nothing he required of anyone to ease his own workload. This one bested him, and whether he was given handicap or not, such a feat certainly placed her leagues above anyone else in this world. As such, she could already be considered a citizen of Chaldea. Matters would eventually be brought to him regardless. What would he have to offer that would make her ascension easier, though? Well... "You are dismissed."

[Apollymi]

Jeanne D'Arc watched as King Gilgamesh processed the words spoken by Artoria. Her sister, was being about as honest as she could be, in a moment like that. Hoshimi Eri was a killer without question. One who murdered for hire, and beyond that who did it without remorse because she was trained to do so. The fact that she managed to look normal to anyone at a glance was some sort of miracle. But there would be another miracle, Gilgamesh smiled upon figuring out that bit of information. Jeanne was sure he understood, sure he could see it... as clearly as any of the other Hoshimi could identify each other, he was aware that her sister was a murderer even before coming here and he smiled. Her brows drew up for a moment and then her face relaxed. King Gilgamesh was seeming a bit more interesting by the moment, and Jeanne though she'd said nothing was content to help him along on his journey to properly capturing the attention of her sister. If for no other reason than the fact that she eventually wanted to see her happy.

Gilgamesh continued to refer to Artoria as the Queen of Knights, but she was managing to let that go for now. What else did he have to say? That she would eventually see? There was certainty, he was quite sure of himself. And... nothing of importance, she should do all the things she intended. He needed no help or no ease of transition. Fine, who was she to stop a man from working himself to death? He even commented on the time and then, dismissed her. That gentle upturn of her lips, an incline of her head, and an arm over her chest and she turned and walked away. A heartbreaking smile crossed Jeanne's face, as her sister had already walked off she gave King Gilgamesh the thumbs up and then joined her sister nudging her with an elbow. "I'm pretty sure one of those sentences could be translated to I'll miss you~" she teased. "I need a drink. And a dessert. I deserve both for not injuring anyone today," mentioned Artoria. And away they would go, but it was never that easy was it?

A certain goddess watched all of the interactions happening here. And when it was obvious those two people were getting along, her crystal ball went flying, shattering into gentle dust as she began walking around. She hated walking around but she was technically pissed. How dare he have a little interest? At first he thought it was the not so boy looking one with the long ponytail, but there was obviously no interest there. And those two were obviously related so... that one she thought was a boy originally could grow up to be something annoying. Gilgamesh showed like and even amusement in all that garbage she spewed about weapons?! He liked girls with kick to them... well she'd have to make sure that one didn't have too much. Ah, but she couldn't kill her either, that would never turn out right. Ah, but that thing she'd set up in Greece had worked out fine, that guy had even killed his own wife afterwards, surely someone like Gilgamesh who'd killed her for nothing, wouldn't have any problem killing some worthless boy. Especially not after she was defiled by a bunch of other men. She just had to make sure that happened... her followers would do anything for her. And them getting to actually have sex would be well worth the extra effort. A wicked grin spread across the goddess' face. Nothing would get between her and what she wanted, not even a girl who didn't want what she was looking for. Sure, it didn't seem necessary right now, but letting her play coy for a while only to show care later would be terrible.

[Bloodedge]

In these parting moments, Gilgamesh observed the final gesture of Jeanne D'Arc. What sort of approval was that? Whatever the case, he needed none of it. King Gilgamesh did not make decisions to have them fall through. Sure, he did make decisions and see them through, only to have victory torn from his clutches at the very end... but that had only happened a few times, right? The worst that could happen in this case, was that he'd finally succeed before... oh. Right, there was always going to be a blade lodged deep within his back. The oh-so glorious goddess, Ishtar, would find a way to intervene at some point. She was probably seeing the very discussion so recently ended, the trifling, meddlesome bitch of a deity she was. All gods would soon enough suffer for allowing her persistence. The Age of Man would start with him. The Age of Gods would end with him. Ishtar would end, period.

The wheels of fate were turning with increased rapidity as Gilgamesh returned to his work. The second Holy Grail War had only been over for a few short weeks, and the third was already a preordained matter as far as the world itself was concerned. Alas, it would be far less than the time it took for the next war before Artoria was affected by Gilgamesh in some way. Ishtar's scheming was a product of her strange obsession with the king. Ah, but the way she tended to go about things would not work. At some point, the goddess would find herself face-to-face with Artoria Pendragon of Camelot. Perhaps his meeting with the woman would come first, but Ishtar's typical methods would only gain her the ire of another individual she should not want opposing her.

[Apollymi]

The goddess Ishtar had a plan to have the Queen of Knights violated, while the Queen of Knights was unaware. Irrespective of divine plots, after reaching the lower realm, Artoria was preparing her own knights. She stood in the training grounds making her decisions. She'd already tested the people Jeanne wanted tested and now, she was standing before her own knights to tell them of her trip, and their newest potential job duties. Regardless she had to prepare the whole of Camelot and to that end she needed to speak with the mage known as Merlin. His help would be necessary either now or later, she supposed it would be fair to let him decide which. She was still in a relatively good mood with him, since his meddlesome behavior had led to her meeting up with her younger sister once more. There was a Holy Grail to win, but there was also a kingdom to prepare and knights to get to work. All manner of experience would make them better men, so as she stood in her dress and armor she'd wait for the gathering as normal to begin her speech about their coming efforts. This time of year, Camelot was a bit chilly, she had over her shoulders a large cape as well, though she'd shed it instantly if she found the need. The air was crisp, the sun was barely peeking over the horizon and she seemed almost serene.

[Bloodedge]

The serenity of a queen was to be joined by the jovial nature of a court mage. Strangely, Merlin led the knights of Camelot to the Round Table before taking Artoria's left side. He'd known this moment was coming in the aftermath of Artoria's trip to Chaldea, but the same could not be said of the knights who merely came to join an ordinary gathering. Sir Lancelot, Sir Tristan, Sir Gawain, Sir Bedivere, and so on were all gathering at the Round Table of Camelot. In the meantime, Merlin peered through the corner of his eye at the queen herself. A suggestion or request would be coming from her rather soon. He'd been waiting for quite some time to hear it. "How auspicious it is to be called upon by our king so soon after her return. I wonder what she could possibly need us all for today~♪"

[Apollymi]

Among those present were also, the Lady Galahad, Lady Kay and Agravain, the latter of whom didn't have a sure gender but would answer to Sir. They all gathered around and Artoria found herself looking out at them, of course, she had no reason to be distrustful. She fully intended to say what she needed to and hear out any concerns. All looked to Artoria recently back from a trip and wondered what she could have wanted, of course, it would be Merlin who would speak first and claim not to know what they were needed for. Those green eyes of hers opened and she cut them to the side at Merlin, she'd always do this, she didn't seem capable of helping it. "I am not one to stand on ceremony. I have found many things about the world above and as a kingdom we have to prepare," she started calmly. "Three major things need to be addressed this day, and I will hear what all of you have to say on both matters," she clarified. "I have not yet won my Holy Grail, but I will and when I do the entirety of this country will ascend with me. The very land and all of its foundations and all of its people," she explained of the coming plan. "To that end, all need to be prepared for the environment of the world above," she expressed. "The other matter has to do with the creation of an organization of Holy Knights, which has already been founded and is being operated by the Queen of Saints Jeanne D'Arc," she clarified. "The last item on the list, is Chaldea as a place and the loyalty we'd have to swear to it. A floating continent that is a collection of islands run like an empire, answering to the King of Heroes, Gilgamesh," She supposed there might be questions, and she would answer them in turn. But getting the necessary information out first would be a major undertaking.

[Bloodedge]

Artoria Pendragon, Queen of Camelot, needn't say a word to garner the attention of knights. She may have been bothered by the acquisition of a title, but Queen of Knights could be suited to no one else. Her existence commanded the attention of various individuals as they sat around that round table, offering ears to her mention of the mythical land of the sky. Apparently she was to acquire a Holy Grail, at which point the whole of this country would rise along with her. Word spoke of Egypt doing the same around ten years ago. Still, it was baffling for many to hear the intention. Some knights were also still troubled by the idea of Artoria swearing fealty to another, as interpreted by her own words.

"My queen. If you wish to rise with all of us, we are at your beck and call as always. Do you truly plan to swear loyalty to another, though? You are the Queen of Camelot, the hope of all Albion," said the knight known as Gawain, the Knight of the Sun. Another male knight had things to say. This one was none other than Sir Lancelot, he who sat unrivaled at the Round Table of Queen Artoria. "I would also question my queen swearing to another. Is Camelot not strong and efficient enough? Whoever this Gilgamesh is, why would you ascend just to answer to him? Besides... King of Heroes is a rather pompous title, isn't it? Who calls themselves something like that?" the Knight of the Lake questioned, raising the spirits of himself and a few others with laughter. While this exchange took place, Merlin remained that smiling ball of aloofness that he always was. Ah, but his eyes were trained on Artoria. He seemed... expectant, curious, and just slightly excited all at once. What would come next? Well, it was going to be interesting overall in the mage's mind.

[Apollymi]

As Artoria sat at this table with her Knights, she heard their potential misgivings with the current plan. The most of the issues having to do with the swearing of fealty and the nature of the man known as the King of Heroes. The Lady Kay and Lady Galahad both had questions to pose about the nature of these Holy Knights as an organization. "If Holy Knights are to exist, is there some church to which one swears fealty, and what is their mission that you would bring it to us? My queen, such trivialities are normally not your concern," The Lady Kay lodged, though she was in agreeance with both Lancelot and Gawain because it was quite unusual for Queen Artoria to even bring them something of this magnitude without having considered it in some form. The Lady Galahad understood much about Artoria already, so when she brought up the idea of joining another she'd already made a decision on the trustworthiness of such an individual. The Queen of Saints Jeanne D'Arc was also her legitimate younger sister from the other world so, Galahad was certain that there was to be an alliance of sorts already formed in that respect. "My Queen, if you search for the Holy Grail, is it not in your best interest to know the details of its spawning?"

Artoria heard out for major issues, all of which she would address. Lancelot was his normal self and managed lightheartedness in the face of serious topics, and Merlin himself seemed about his usual level of annoyance. Artoria didn't know of being remotely dishonest and fully intended to reveal all the information she had. "Kay, the Holy Knights Organization has no religious affiliation. The Queen of Saints runs it to interact both above and below. Knights for the protection of the people, against monsters, tyranny and whatever else ails the world. As a person and in garnering alliances I feel that cause is just and such a group could always be helpful. Besides all of that, in being part of the group I can vet the Knights who will work with it. You do not have to participate if you do not wish to, but given how such things work, it will be a benefit to all to help those who are not yet able to help themselves. It is one of the few things I have sworn myself to already, but I am biased in knowing that the Queen of Saints is my younger sister and thus above reproach in all she does," explained Artoria of the Holy Knights. There was no religious aspect, just deliverance from the worlds evils as handed out by capable individuals and any among them could take on such a rotation. "I had a hand in the creation of the Holy Knights Headquarters and I can vouch for it as it exists under Jeanne D'Arc." What else? "King Gilgamesh is the King of Heroes and yes it is a pompous title, I could not agree more. The man himself is also rather arrogant this is a simple truth," Artoria stated. There was no point in lying about that man's annoying nature. "As I understand such titles, they are conferred either by those with power over you or by the world. In his case, the world determined he was the King of Heroes, so arguing such a point has little meaning," she said in full confidence of that particular understanding. "That being said I have witnessed this King with my own eyes and faced him in open combat, he works hard for his people and though he has the underlying attitude of a tyrant... I cannot question his ability as King and leader. He is reasonable in those aspects and played a major role in the construction of the Holy Knights Headquarters, even while being obviously overwhelmed dealing with the fall out of the previous rising of Egypt. I do plan to swear fealty when it happens as the whole of Chaldea is his to look after and I wouldn't have farmers and huntsmen being the only people doing any real fighting when we exist. Even so, I'd be willing to take responsibility if he overstepped our existing way of life," she summarized. That was about as high praise as one could get from Artoria, especially considering how she'd come to be Queen. "As for the Holy Grail, what I understand of it, I understand because of my conversations with the Pharaohs in Egypt and my participation in the previous Holy Grail War. My understanding is not perfect, but I have some knowledge."

[Bloodedge]

Standing behind Lady Galahad was a young man not yet a knight, but given the privilege of attending these meetings as a squire. He very much shared her curiosity about churches and the like, but it seemed no such religious involvement was at hand here. A sigh of relief escaped him, though he felt he had no place to speak. Sir Lancelot, however, did. "No church is a relief. That's real saintly behavior, if you ask me," he spoke. Many at this table could agree that being deemed "Holy" Knights while demanding or being required to offer tribute to the church itself was no honorable path. Those things didn't truly work out in their original world, and they wouldn't work here either.

For the most part, numerous knights were willing to put their faith in the alleged Queen of Saints, if only because she was their queen's sister. Artoria Pendragon could do no wrong, many thought. "I believe I speak for many when I say becoming one of these Holy Knights would be an honor. If you have already chosen to pledge yourself to someone, it is only right that your loyal knights should follow suit. My blade will follow yours," Gawain said. "As will mine," added Sir Lancelot. "It saddens me to think of bending the knee to a tyrant, but I have nothing but faith in our queen's decisions," added the red-haired knight, Sir Tristan. In terms of additions, the younger male standing behind Lady Galahad could hardly resist blurting something out himself. "Yeah, and we're gonna meet the Egyptians!" Such a statement could come only from the one known as Freed, squire to Galahad. Sir Lancelot, Sir Tristan, Sir Gawain and Sir Bedivere all glanced quickly in his direction. In response to this, the lad far newer to this world seemed somewhat abashed. "Gomen! There wasn't anything cool left to say. . ."

[Apollymi]

As was expected, with the concession that the Holy Knights had no religious affiliation the dissent was calmed among the knights of the round table. The Lady Kay nodded her understanding of this, and also had no problem being of assistance to a woman who could see clearly the issue of associating with religion when goodness was the aim. After another comical statement from Lancelot, Gawain would go on to mention the honor of becoming a Holy Knight of the caliber that Artoria had mentioned. Moreover the Knights at large seemed to agree with her decision making in general. Sir Tristian claimed that he would be saddened joining a tyrant but chose to take Artoria's word as well. And the squire of the group, a young man named Freed, showed excitement as well, though admittedly with less smoothness than the other knights. At least he had the presence of mind to know such a thing. A small upturn of Artoria's lips would happen then, what an interesting young knight he could potentially be. "I would not say it is uncool. The Pharaohs in Egypt are some of the most reasonable people I have met. They think of the well-being of their kingdom and all of its people, not leaving anything to chance. It was their guidance that leads me to another point," Artoria said giving it thought.

"The mana density of the upper world is intense. I noticed it myself but it does not affect me, but the Pharaohs spoke once of having an issue of having to corral and protect their people from the pressure. Especially the weak and small children. I would not have the deaths of innocents on my hands for the sake of ambition," she explained of the situation. "As such the whole of the lands will need to be ready for the ascent, either by way of slow acclimation on this level or protective acclimation after reaching the top. These are your choices Merlin," she mentioned carefully. "I have a method to test the readiness of all of you in this moment. Any who pass this, and would like to be among the first to wear the mantle of Holy Knight, I would send to Jeanne D'Arc as part of her initial auxiliary force. Though I put her battle capacity between Gawain and Lancelot, the Queen of Saints possesses an innocence I will not see falter. To give her strength and give a few of you the chance to acclimate directly is my aim. What say you to the test?" she asked of the lot. She would not impose such a test with reckless abandon, but the Knights at her table did need to know where they stood between here and the sky. "I will take your test my Queen, but I think my best use of self will be helping along the acquisition of the Holy Grail. I feel it would be a good experience for Freed as well," mentioned Galahad. Kay also nodded her willingness to take this test. Agavain who'd been quiet this entire time also nodded.

[Bloodedge]

Freed was granted relief. For the queen herself to ease his worries, was the ultimate reprieve from a blundering moment. Moreover, she spoke as highly of the pharaohs as any he'd ever heard, hence his excitement to see Egypt for himself. Now was not the time to harp on that though, as Artoria had more information to share, coming from those very same pharaohs. Ascension had become the goal of many over the last decade, but it came with risks to a country. Dense mana was no stranger to most people in this very room; merely training with their queen, or witnessing said training, was something that could make most of them buckle under the weight of her energy alone. Surely the common citizens could not tolerate that sort of thing if it were applied to the atmosphere itself.

Merlin had an option, as he knew he would. He could prepare the masses of Albion now, or he could shield them when Artoria raised the country to Chaldea. That smile remained part of the great wizard's visage as his eyes closed, his vision applied directly to the whole of Albion as it was. "A wise decision~ ♪ The world will forge a new Holy Grail no sooner than ten years after its predecessor," he said, casually delivering a bit of foresight. "It would take only six for Albion's people to be strong enough. I must ask though, Artoria... If I choose the latter, have you no concern for those who visit this country? A traveling merchant will die setting foot in the bounded field only four years from now," he explained.

Meanwhile, Lancelot stood. He would show acceptance of this plan, and any Artoria offered, by holding his sword and standing at attention. Such was a maneuver that would be followed by the likes of Gawain, Bedivere, and Tristan as well. Freed, however, would be siding with Lady Galahad. "Eh? The Holy Grail? That's a huge responsibility, but I feel like I'm not up to par for whatever this test is─"

[Apollymi]

Ascension was indeed the goal of many. The Pharaohs of Egypt had lit a fire under the bottoms of all humanity. And no king worth anything was content to have his country sit at the bottom when promised lands and glory were at the top. Artoria knew the truth a bit better than most, the world above was full of its own perils but the people there could be easily protected in these sovereign island nations. Beyond that a single king to unite them meant less infighting which was a goal of all who ran empires. Beyond that was the information offered by Merlin. He'd been strangely talkative for the last few times he'd appeared. Artoria herself would have commented but there were better usages of her words to come. That was a problem wasn't it? But it was not one which she had not foreseen herself. "I have considered this as well. Again, I would not want the blood of innocents on my hand, the Pharaohs claimed that initially they provided their protection to merchants traveling outwards. I will concede not having such methods of my own to give, for those coming in. Instead I could only do something much simpler," she said giving a plan which likely would sit strangely. "There is the possibility of using one of the old keeps as an outpost for trade. A singular meeting place outside of major influence. I would use Loch Ness for such an endeavor. I would leave it behind for traveling knights upon ascension, for my own and holy alike," she said softly. "The other options are quarantine for the duration of the 6 years it would take the people to acclimate, leaving the first few years for preparation or complete quarantine in 10 years time. If you have a better option though, I am listening," Artoria commented.

Agravain stood at the same time as the others. Credit would be given to their Queen for her careful consideration of the potential issues of ascending. Leaving behind an outpost didn't sound like a bad idea either, in case the need reclaim or help surrounding lands was high. All the knights female or otherwise stood for the test so Artoria stood as well. By her own use of this method on Jeanne's chosen, she had a decent idea that only those with high quality mana wouldn't falter. Of course, making sure the Knights would be able to function regardless of the level of the world they'd be on was important. "Brace yourselves," Artoria said. Chivalry at its finest, just a moment after, there was a massive influx of energy concentrated on the Knights standing before her. Each would feel the weight of her mana, dense in the air around them, like taking steps at the bottom of the ocean. It would be nearly impossible for the weakest to even do what was necessary to take a breath. The next tier might find themselves incapable of movement, until reaching such a point as being able to deny the influence of the pressure. It was a skill, like any other it could be learned with the right amount of time. But this was a test, it was to see who could function as normal if they intended to ascend to help the works of Jeanne D'Arc.

[Bloodedge]

Ah, Artoria had a contingency for the potential death of Albion's visitors during the acclimation process. Merlin chuckled. He knew how this would end, and indeed it was all for the best possible outcome. Artoria had a very interesting habit of making decisions like that. "Loch Ness, of all places? Well, who am I to argue with insight of that caliber? I might only suggest a combination of things. Quarantine the country to avoid anything going wrong by chance, and send only those with the ability to survive the upper atmosphere to Loch Ness. If that is your intention, I will stagger the use of my bounded field, making sure any visitors in the first few years will confuse the pressure for the cold atmosphere~"

Soon enough, Artoria was warning her knights of the coming intensity. None could truly be prepared, but surely all were ready to take any test she had for them. The likes of Lancelot and Gawain were hardly moved by this. Both seemed to be in a state similar to one who'd just finished a casual jog. Tristan, however, was pulling at his own collar. Ah, but the male knight who was in a worse state than the others was... Bedivere. The flaxen knight was perhaps the weakest of all who directly served Queen Artoria. He buckled, he fell to his knees, yet he struggled against the pressure just to breathe properly. Of course, there was also Freed, grasping at his throat trying to find even an ounce of breath while gravity took him to the floor. All he could wonder was in regards to why this happened while he remained in the room. . .

[Apollymi]

Merlin raised a few valid points, good. He was here to advise and she did trust him in such a capacity, even if she found his actions annoying in most cases. He even seemed to approve of her choice of Loch Ness with only a few modifications. "I can see how it would be for the best, for those people to be able to move between Camelot and Loch Ness without many problems," Artoria said nodding her agreement. "Cold cover is probably for the best, I would not want too many people to worry, if it just feels like cold they might adjust easier," she said to Merlin. It would seem their relationship was a bit more cordial than it seemed initially. Or perhaps Artoria was fine so long as she didn't have to deal with him alone for an extended period of time.

As for the test, Galahad seemed as unbothered as Gawain and Lancelot, such was expected given her high defense. Her squire however was choking on the ground beside her. The Lady Kay stood by Bedivere who was on his knees choking seeming to garner a similar reaction to Sir Tristan, uncomfortable but not incapable of moving. This was a good showing. Even Agravain though not moving very much seemed to be studying the reactions of the others, placing a hand on the back of their neck and wanting to stand in a more relaxed posture. Strangely with the same ease it had over taken them, Artoria simply compressed her power back into herself. "Oh, that went much better than I could have hoped. As far as the group is concerned, Bedi could use more training," she said of the loyal knight was only as tough as a regular human. Of Freed she looked towards the lad and gave an appreciative smile. "Galahad, he can be made ready quicker with the right guidance. Given his hopes of meeting the Pharaohs, you have your work cut out for you," she said only to have Galahad bow in return. "There is no problem, my Queen. I will see he gets the training required on our adventure. But this is not a full seating of the Knights, how will you test the rest?" she asked frankly. Artoria fought the desire to shrug off the concern as her body would have demanded after such a powerful showing. "In honesty a few knights have gone ahead. Perci was tested with my sister's choices and sent ahead if that helps any of you. A few of the others are out on quests to be relegated to other tasks. I am sure Pellinore would not mind remaining in Loch Ness along with a few others considering the back and forth nature of Percival's work." Artoria seemed to have a pretty decent understanding of her Knights abilities and would leave them to the tasks they felt most comfortable with. "If any of you has a particular assignment you are looking for, now is the time..." she gave a bit more room. She would send any who wished to become Holy Knights up with Jeanne who claimed she'd rotate them in and out as Gilgamesh required. A group who could survive the upper realm would be left to look after Loch Ness and able to switch places with the other once it was convenient to make sure switches at random and all would be well, as far as Artoria could tell.

[Bloodedge]

As it stood, Camelot would soon be minus a few knights for up to a decade, but Albion would be better for it. It wasn't as if the full roster of knights needed to occupy the Round Table; they proved more than capable enough with just a small few in most scenarios. Some had already gone ahead, others would be joining, and eventually... Artoria Pendragon would ascend her queenship to a new level. Already, opportunities were being taken by many people surrounding the Round Table. Merlin was setting up a bounded field around the whole of Albion─ something that would take a short while, but soon retain all ambient traces of mana over the course of ten years. The world immediately surrounding Albion would hardly notice a difference in truth, but with no mana escaping from these powerful knights, the density would rise very slowly. Bedivere was in the process of lifting himself from the floor, dismayed by his own lack of ability and wondering how he acquired knighthood over even someone like Freed... who himself was only just rising to his hands and knees.

Of the males, there was but one who requested a task. Such would always be the case with Sir Gawain. The muscular male stepped forward and bowed, thinking there was something best suited to him. "If I may make a request, My Queen. Allow me to travel outward to Loch Ness. I would like to ready it as something more than a simple outpost. There is always a chance some may not want to ascend, or even that some may still be incapable of handling the atmosphere. Having a suitable village at least, would perhaps do them well."

Little did these knights know, the end of a meeting would herald the beginning of another. Specifically, a group of men from above were waiting for the moment Artoria Pendragon showed herself alone. Perhaps she would be alone rather soon, or perhaps they'd have to wait until she took rest for the night. It seemed some of these men had different preferences for when they would approach, but either way, a dozen or so of Ishtar's loyalists would be finding the Queen of Knights in her privacy as soon as possible. . .

[Apollymi]

Camelot was moving towards busy, and Artoria could tell already that many were ready and capable of moving about all on their own. The first of such a request was made by Gawain, who wished to see Loch Ness reach the height of a true little village instead of an outpost. "Lift your head," she said before making a decision which was much easier to do than many others. "You are free to see to that task. I would not want to displace those of Albion who would rather live at ground level either. I can trust you with such a task, so it is yours to undertake. If you require anything to make that easier for you, feel free to send word, you will have it." she added. She did not plan to leave Gawain behind in her ascent, but if he wished to help out in a way the rest of them hadn't thought of yet, she was more than willing to leave him to that task for the time being.

As for the other Knights it would be Agravain who stepped up and bowed as well. "Surely you jest?" Artoria asked first and foremost about the posturing. "Of course I do no such thing. I wish to accompany the Queen of Saints at least for a time. At the very least I believe I can be helpful to her, as you cannot be at her side yourself. You will feel less anxious with someone like me at her side, correct?" asked Agravain. Ah, what a dangerous question. Artoria could not lie, of the current Knights the one most like her original self was Agravain. Though she didn't share that ability to torture and extract information their ability to act by any means necessary was admirable. Such a trait would be especially useful to Jeanne who saw only the good in others and wouldn't bother questioning the bad. Agravain could and would be of use to her, in rooting out any ne'er do wells. "Be warned Argavain the Queen of Saints can see through and control even you. But knowing one such as you would stand at her side would put me at ease," she said giving her permission for that person to scurry off as well.

With all of that taken care of, if Artoria was to be found properly alone, it would be some time later. She'd have sat through any paperwork that needed tending. Talked to any stray knights that found themselves wanting to participate one way or another and then when everything calmed the Queen of Knights would be found in her own bedroom. She'd be alone and finally able to take a deep breath, sitting atop her own bed, with crossed legs having finished her work of cleaning and tending her blade. She did so to clear her thoughts and reach a state of tranquility she didn't know outside of combat. Here and now each breath would be in step with the movements of a whetstone until satisfied finally. She'd lay her sword to rest. Hair unleashed from its normal bun and brushed out a simple night gown was how she chose to sleep, when she chose to do so. She was safe within Camelot and she hadn't slept much on her trip and so she would relax almost completely with the exception of a dagger beneath her pillow. The habits of an assassin, did not disappear, and strangely she couldn't sleep if the weight of it wasn't beneath that space either.

[Bloodedge]

Each of the knights were on their way. Some trained, some journeyed, and some prepared for things to come in other ways. Poor Camelot was being left less and less defended, though any number of knights seemed problematic enough that Artoria's nighttime "visitors" remained vigilant against being seen. Fourteen total men were enshrouded by a Divine Artifact, concealing their very existences as they kept eyes on the Queen of Camelot. Ah, some of them could almost taste it already. They were all strung along by their goddess, scarcely tasting of even the flesh of human women in hopes of the goddess' good graces falling their way. Now, they were instructed to lay waste to a young queen who physically seemed so very... breakable. They were to ruin that queen, and oh, they intended to. Some were instructed to look ahead by others, as the queen's loosed hair and nightgown were so perfectly sculpted in their favor. Well... their approach was to be made within the hour of her taking rest. The peace of Artoria's sleep was slated to be interrupted, and by what? A joint effort of four strapping young men, each taking an extremity in their hands while the first of their associates loomed over Artoria and her bed. Ah... that one was already preparing to bare himself. Nine others were still lined-up behind, though one was impatient enough to move forward. She was sure to scream, right? Yes, naturally, he thought. With that in mind, he may as well be the one to plug her mouth early on. Yes, the plan was all in place. All they had to do was execute, and the fall of Queen Artoria would begin.

[Apollymi]

Artoria had relaxed herself into sleep, but she had every reason to do so. The Knights of Camelot were not the types who would let anything happen around them and she was no defenseless woman. Ah, but these people didn't know that. She was being held down by four young men and beyond that another was preparing himself to do something unthinkable to one who had no interest. Ah, but when she woke her body pinned down and she opened those emerald eyes to the sight of manhood before her person... no screams escaped her. No, instead mana burst from her very person. That newest test of her abilities would aim to do a couple of things, the first of which would be to disable any weak enough to not withstand pressure higher than than that of the world above. The other reason to do this, would be to alert the nearby Knights to her present state of danger. In the meantime she'd aim to wrestle at least one arm from the grasp of one of these mean, to reach for that dagger beneath her pillow. And if she drew it, well, the one whose manhood was in front of her, would lose it in an instant. There was no remorse and no fear in the Queen of Camelot. But who were these men and how did they get here?

[Bloodedge]

A bittersweet result was encroaching upon Artoria, in a manner of speaking. On the negative side of things, her use of mana would not be impacting any of those fourteen men. They had all come from the realm above, as all who were able to meet the gods directly were. On the other hand though, her knights knew two things; Artoria was taking rest by now, and she would not flex her power so casually. Just the same, though these men were of Chaldean birth, they were not warriors. Artoria's wrestling managed to free one of her hands. Just as one male was fully prepared to ram his meat rod into the struggling woman's face... he watched it fly off. A bloodcurdling scream escaped the one assailant, urging the others into more aggressive action. Multiple attempts were made at the knife-wielding hand of Artoria, while one man continued focusing on placing himself between her legs. Ah, but that scream was a source of higher alert in any remaining knights nearby. Only seconds later, the door of Artoria's chambers burst open. Long, crimson locks billowed over closed eyes, and a bow that seemed just as much a harp had two of its strings plucked. Two arrows that were neither physical nor truly "loosed" from the bow found their way to the napes of two men. "How sad. For someone to sneak into the castle of Camelot, and think they have the right to assault our queen even after bypassing the Round Table. Fate is a terrible mistress who brings only lamentation." With that, the men who held onto Artoria's ankles fell next to her bed. They were far too busy clutching the open wounds in their necks to do anything else, lest they bleed out in a matter of moments. "Shall I bear your burden, My Queen?"

[Apollymi]

A blood-curdling scream and Artoria instantly felt more comfortable. That knife was trying to be ripped from her fingers, but she had no intention of letting it go. Every grab for it would be met with slices which would rid men of their fingers while she wrestled herself closer to the upright position. It would have been much easier to do if her legs were free. Ah, but Tristan was now here and two arrows loosed to free the Queen of Knights legs. That sad sleepless knight had just saved Artoria from a problem she wouldn't wish upon her enemies. One immediately aimed to kick at the man between them as she worked herself into the upright position. Tristan asked of her a single question which made her answer quickly enough as that blade flipped around in her fingers aiming to free her other hand. "Yes, all but one of these men die today. No one escapes." Artoria said as she aimed immediately to drive that blade into the heart of the man still holding her hand. If she succeeded she'd be completely free and would easily find herself moving about. Adrenaline coursed through her veins but her mind had basically gone silent. There were men in her room, trying to rape her, and none had seen them enter. They were strong enough to withstand the burst of her mana, and as such were from above, which limited the amount of people who could be out to get her. Artoria was calm but it wasn't true calm it was the dangerous calm of a cornered animal, even slightly less cornered now, she had fangs to bare and lives to take.

[Bloodedge]

It seemed Sir Tristan had done just enough to free the rage Artoria had for these assailants. Good. It would have been depressing to see anything happen to the woman, but he figured she wanted the man betwixt her legs to die by her own hand, and thus left her to it. Considering how quickly her knife found its way to that man's heart, Tristan could assume he was right. By her order, one of her attackers was to live. No escapees would be allowed; Tristan would ensure that. "As you wish, My Queen," he stated. Just under a dozen men remained, some grasping with what few digits their hands had left, and some encroaching upon Sir Tristan to immobilize a potential threat. None seemed to care much about their wellbeing in this moment. Why should they? If they survived and successfully ruined the Queen of Camelot, surely their magnanimous goddess Ishtar would smile down upon them with favor and healing. Victors would be praised, bedded, taken to the height of bliss! Or... they would never be victors at all. Sir Tristan's strings were plucked once, twice, thrice more and so on. Never did an arrow appear, yet all but the male closest to Artoria took fatal wounds within a frame of three seconds. "It saddens me so to see lives thrown away with such abandon. Sleep now to this elegy," he offered as assailants fell one after another. There was a bloodbath in the queen's chambers, and hubris was the culprit. Whatever this organized group of men thought they were doing by making it this far... well, they would know eventually.

[Apollymi]

Tristan would do what Artoria couldn't freely do while her room was so small. He would take out multiple assailants with the use of his harp. Something about those string plucks soothed her greatly. She couldn't help but feel strange nonetheless. And after the deaths of many there was only one left, and it would happen to be the one who'd lost his manhood. Her bedroom was covered in blood, so was she at this point. Though it was hardly a look she wasn't used to. Those eyes of hers glowed with emerald fire as tried her best to calm down. What she needed now wasn't vengeance for the slight they were willing to perpetrate against her, what she needed now, was answers. Strangely, no one ever thought about what would happen if one of these plots was discovered, no one considered the idea that a girl so tiny could fight back in anyway. Of course, Artoria often suffered from this kind of prejudice against her skill, even so never had any of her enemies tried this. It was disgusting. She was disgusted, and furious but it was all burning right below the surface of her face, like at any moment someone else would jump out of her visage and do something incredibly violent. 'Hold it, together. Don't be rash...' she thought to herself. Even with her training as King, even with her training as an assassin, she was still a woman who deep inside would now have an unnecessary fear for her virtues. How many deaths would happen now, because Artoria would no longer be able to sleep? How many would die by her hand because now they couldn't be trusted? A deep exhale left her as she looked at the carnage of her room. "Tristan, have this one healed enough that he will not bleed out. Do not have it reattached, I do not think anyone who acts the way he did deserves such things. Bind him and wait for me in the hall of the round table. I need to dress and arm myself. Alert the others do a sweep make sure no one else remains," these were a set of orders that Artoria gave but they were almost empty in feeling.

[Bloodedge]

Thirteen deaths occurred this night, until only one man, who wasn't much of a man at all anymore, remained. The queen was understandably shaken in some way, even though it wasn't the sort of reaction one would expect. She was always like that. Queen Artoria did not possess the weaknesses of any normal human, and that was part of her charm. She gave a single series of orders to the red-haired knight, and with his eyes still closed, he bowed. "As you wish. I will meet you in the hall," he said, taking the cockless "man" by the collar and dragging him out. He'd do just as instructed, having that cretin patched up while the remaining knights performed several rounds for assurance. There were no reports given about suspicious activity. No knights had anything to find, as all culprits were in that very room. Well... there was one thing found. There was a single cap not far from the queen's bedroom. Said cap reeked of something that didn't belong in this world at all, and upon locating it, Sir Bedivere was the one to discover its purpose by trying it for himself. Suddenly, he was obscured from sight before Sir Tristan himself. Neither knight had ever seen such a thing before. There was hardly a doubt that it had come from somewhere... not normally reachable by the likes of them.

[Apollymi]

Thirteen deaths occurred and the final living member of that little expedition was now a eunuch. Artoria stood before a bathroom mirror washing her hands and face, cleaning the blood from her finger tips and then rinsing it out of her golden locks. Obviously, she could not stand before her knights looking so disheveled. She was Queen first, and as such she would appear no less in front of anyone. Still these movements from her were mechanical as the events of her invaded bedroom played in her mind. What if Tristan hadn't been there? She relied on her knights and their opinions but this was likely the first time in her life, she imagined an outcome so very different if one hadn't shown. The blood was now gone her skin was now cool and not a single tear had been shed, but there was still burning fury behind her eyes. She hadn't even gotten any sleep, she probably wouldn't anytime soon. Hair was next, brushed and braided put up into her bun. Next was dress, which was rather easy to don considering her own choice in undergarments. The frown on Artoria's face deepened as she looked at the version of herself she always presented to the Knights. She could hold this façade for a while longer. She didn't have much choice after all. She picked up her sword, feeling infinitely more comfortable with it in hand than she'd felt in the moment's prior. Calm deep breaths, even through the smell of blood and sweat. She would walk down the halls of Camelot as she always did as if there was nothing amiss, though within her own head there was only fury, more fury than she'd ever know what to do with. She reached the great hall sword still in hand and would stand before the criminal in armor with the tip of Excalibur planted into the floor before her. She definitely hadn't slept enough for this. She'd address the Knights first. "I assume we have no more unwanted..." she gave a pause, what kind of word did one use to describe a band of rapists? Vermin? Pests? Beasts? Scum? That last one sounded right, but it was probably against her own honor to refer to people as inhuman. She'd pull on the cover of her chivalry when all else failed her. "Villains running around, was anything else found?" she asked just as calmly as she always did. She was getting rather good at using this face and voice without having it betray her.

[Bloodedge]

Artoria's arrival to the hall was welcomed by the bowing of her knights. For what so recently transpired, she was no less organized than always... as expected of Camelot's sovereign. Both Tristan and Bedivere rose when the queen spoke, the former choosing to address her inquiries. "It seems there are no more ruffians in the castle. The insistence of this one that there are more, I believe is a ploy to draw our attention. Still, the others remain vigilant," he explained. As for general information however, there was one thing. Since Bedivere had been the one to locate this mysterious object, Tristan left him to speak on it. "There is one thing worth your attention, My Queen. This..." the younger knight said, holding out the strange headgear for the woman's inspection if she so desired. "Sir Tristan and I have spoken about this. We believe this is how they managed to get so far. I wore it briefly, and I... disappeared. I've never seen anything like it," he said. Surely there was no other way those men made it past all the knights in this castle. Somehow, one of them must have been extending the abilities of the Artifact Bedivere discovered.

[Apollymi]

Camelot's sovereign looked to her knights and found comfort. She didn't know she'd know such a thing in truth, but here and now she could take comfort in being surrounded by trustworthy men. "Raise your heads," she said to her knights first and foremost. But then, both Tristan and Bedivere rose from their bows. Apparently, there were no more 'ruffians' in her castle. According to their prisoner there were more of them, but Tristan believed this to be a ploy to divert attention. Artoria herself believed it was likely a half-truth but she turned her eyes on this particular criminal and felt much better about having castrated him. There was a certain amount of hatred bubbling just beneath the surface of Artoria's visage. Hidden were these fires within her eyes, but she still aimed the full weight of them towards this man who thought himself above her autonomy. In the meantime, Artoria was told by Bedivere about the cap they'd found outside of her room. Ah, an artifact which makes the wearer invisible stretched to 14 total men. She reached out taking it into her hand and examining it. There were few artifacts she held that made her question their origin, but this one couldn't have come from a standard craftsman. "An artifact that can do something like that has to be Divine in quality. I have never seen anything like it before... but I can only be so surprised this day," Artoria said. Her voice still firm and even. In a moment like this even when her mind was in turmoil, she managed to look mostly unfazed.

"Fourteen of them, broke into Camelot, stole away to my room with a quality of Artifact unknown to this level of the world. With mana which would allow them to defend against the sheer pressure of my existence. Not warriors. They were far too easy to kill for that to be the case... so," Artoria's eyes were now once more on the criminal. "Who sent you?"

[Bloodedge]

The cap was taken and inspected, and indeed believed to be something from beyond this realm. It certainly wasn't crafted by anyone in this area of the world. According to Artoria however, it had to be something beyond humanity as a whole. "Very true. It behaves like a culmination of Rogue skills," Sir Bedivere surmised. Neither of the knights could truly understand the ramifications of this reveal, but it was concerning nonetheless. Well, whatever the case, there would soon be some answers about this intrusion and attempted defiling. Who sent this group? Artoria wished to know. It made sense that a group of rapists didn't simply gather together of their own volition. No, someone sent those men with the intention of doing harm to the Queen of Camelot. If she didn't find the answer herself, someone undoubtedly would in her honor. Ah, but there was some form of answer coming Artoria's way. Perhaps it was not the answer she truly sought, but it was an answer nonetheless. "Tch! You foolish bitch; don't you know? You upset the divine one, so you were to be our plaything until there was nothing left to ravage! Perhaps I lost my chance. Oh well; someone will have their way with you until you've broken down," the eunuch proclaimed.

[Apollymi]

A culmination of Rogue skills? Artoria could see that, she hadn't given it much thought but those weren't the type of skills that one could come across. Surely none of the men who'd ended up in her bedroom had ever actually managed to be sneaky. Actually, after killing them in some of the most brutal ways she'd killed anyone since coming to this world, she was more than certain none of them would have been able to win against her in open combat. This man was very bold for one who was currently castrated with no hope. Still, Artoria was ever so slightly shocked to hear herself referred to in such a way. She was pretty sure no one had called her that specific epitaph the entirety of either of her lives. 'Hold it. Hold it... exhale.' Artoria kept her breathing even and she blinked only briefly before once again turning her gaze to this man. He had no idea the woman he messed with, was one who could have killed him 12 times over already. "Foolish am I?" she said those three words just to keep herself calm. Rule one of interrogation was never to let anyone know your weaknesses. It was good to avoid mentioning anything about yourself and even better if everything didn't seem to bother you. "Well, I invite you to enlighten me about your divine one. No one wants to live and die in ignorance..." she said that sentence so very lightly, but strangely she meant it. Artoria was very curious about what kind of god would sanction the rape of a Queen who had done nothing. She knew horrible people who wouldn't ever stoop so low, so what deity would? Well, she'd find out, and do her level best to make sure such a creature never saw worship again. What could Artoria Pendragon, Queen of Knights have possibly done to upset anyone? The list of people who were her enemies were made into her allies, and those who weren't were dead. At this point, it was strictly speaking impossible for her to have caused any legitimate offense to anyone.

[Bloodedge]

Oh? The little queen truly hadn't a clue who sent for her violation. It was beyond audacious that she knew not who the "divine one" he spoke of was. Worse yet, she thought he would tell her information she sought after that emasculation? Such jest. "Kukuku! I'm supposed to tell you? I'll tell you..." he started, pausing as his eyes traveled over that royal form. She was so perfectly constructed. Ah, if only he'd managed penetration before having his manhood severed. Well, there was no going back now. "How about you put my cock back on, then spend a good long time cramming it right up your tight ass! Then it may be worthwhile for me to tell you anything, little queen." No information would be gained from this man today. Well, that wasn't entirely true. Should that elegant queen actually do as he demanded, he'd tell her whatever information about the goddess she wanted. Of course, that would only come after he finished the task he'd been given of ruining her forever.

[Apollymi]

Artoria found herself staring at this man as he stared at her. He apparently didn't wish to talk, she supposed that would be fine, except it was exceedingly annoying that every few moments he spewed profanities out of his mouth. "I am truly surprised, I figured being castrated would end such vulgarities," Artoria stated, she was still so very calm. What kind of god would allow their worship by someone so vile. She might have assumed some sort of enchantment, but that seemed counter-intuitive. Some divinity sent a group of men to rape her. A man from that group, had been castrated but was still sexually frustrated enough to spew vulgarities at her. "Obviously, I can not return your missing appendage... and I would not even if it was within my power. You are obviously quite untrustworthy. I have to do what I can to protect others from your wayward behavior," Artoria stated as absolute fact. Any man who would attack someone defenseless was basically an animal, and deserved to be neutered as one. The fact that he kept yelping like a wounded dog was proof. Perhaps he served no god, perhaps it was just an excuse? Perhaps he and his group were simply a band of rapists, who liked young looking girls and as such she was simply their type. That would be new... no that didn't work out at all.

'Agravain, left already. I suppose it is a bit annoying for my interrogator to be out and about. Well, not really I could always consult someone else to find out the information needed.' So what was the Queen of Knights to do? Well obviously, she should consult her knights and see if any of them had anything to say. "Where is Merlin? I wish to know if he knows a single divinity that would sanction such actions... also if any of you know, I would take that information from you..." Artoria said as if she was perfectly content to ignore the cockless man before her. If he wouldn't be forthcoming there was no need to engage.

[Bloodedge]

"Wouldn't that be a lovely outcome for you? As it happens, vulgarities tend to accompany dismemberment," the rapist griped. Alas, nothing positive would be coming his way at all. Artoria gave up rather quickly on acquiring the desired information from him, choosing to rely on her knights and the one called Merlin instead. Tristan did not know of the gods and their methods, nor did Bedivere. Ah, but Merlin did; Merlin knew most things in this world. It just so happened to be the case that he'd already made his way to Artoria's side, or... perhaps he'd been there all along? No matter when he made his way here, he was standing only a pace behind Artoria by the time she asked for him. "You never think to look over your shoulder. You should pay more attention to the people around you, my king~" the sorcerer quipped. "Surely you don't expect me to know about the divinities of this world? The gods are only capable of manifesting around their linchpin," he said, despite actually knowing all the information Artoria sought. "Far be it from one who walks the lower plane to truly know their methods. Besides, it isn't as if I ever have useful information to give~♪"

[Apollymi]

A good outcome for Artoria? Well, that would have been sleeping her designated eight hours and waking to do her training drills with no interruption. How strange was it that a man who thought to rape her decided that she was somehow wrong for how she chose to defend herself. The audacity of this man was frightening. Ah, but now there was Merlin, who was apparently just over Artoria's shoulder. "I pay plenty of attention Merlin, you have not been in my immediate vicinity in quite some time," ah the mage spoke but he had no real information to offer. He claimed not to know, but when he made such claims in moments like these it was usually him being meddlesome. Strange though it was, he was remarkably missing when she was fighting off fourteen rapists in her room earlier. Would she blame him for that though... no. Not right at the moment, but she was barely holding on to what was left of her psyche. She almost needed to kill something and it was a very dangerous position Merlin was placing himself in right at the moment. Even if he didn't think she would kill him, her closeness to mental break might make her try. The grip on the hilt of her sword remained the way it was, but those eyes that shifted to Merlin showed several things and none of them good. "I expect that you know a lot Merlin," she mentioned withholding what was left of her attitude. The part of her hidden speech that would have ended in a blind rage that would consume half of Camelot before it was quelled. Yes, she would hold that part back, even as that fury ate away at her inside."I already know where they came from, I am asking who sent them..." she said very carefully. The Queen Artoria was holding on to her inhuman image so hard right now it was breaking pieces of her soul. "If you will not say, do not infantilize me," Artoria's words were quiet, careful and calm. But her eyes were losing more and more light by the moment. 'If this one won't talk, I could just remove his head and wait for the next batch. Eventually someone will tell me what I need to know...' Oh, her brain was switching straight to murder mode. Well, that wasn't true exactly, her brain hadn't left murder mode, not since these men had entered her bedroom. She'd avoided murdering this man for information, but if he had none to give, then the sentence would be death. White noise was in her ears and nothing but absolute fury in her heart, but she was stilling it with every breath. Artoria was preparing to kill with every beat of her heart. Beginning the steps towards playing judge, jury and executioner. She didn't need witnesses, she'd been there so there was only one thing left to check and if there was only clarity she would mete out this punishment with nothing to tarnish her honor. She cared not about her conscience. "Is he bewitched?" that was the last question she would ask Merlin. That was simple enough for him, and he should know by now, why Artoria would ask such a question.

[Bloodedge]

"How could you be so sure?" Merlin questioned. Maybe he wasn't there before, or maybe he was there even longer than she'd been awake. He had reason to believe she wouldn't have noticed if he hid himself in some manner he considered simple. Those assailants managed to by pass her and the knights quite easily, after all. She could have dealt with those men easily though, had she actually taken his magical training many years ago. Channeling wind through a sword would not be any true help. "You'll have a chance soon, you know? Take something magical," he said in passing, vague as ever. Meanwhile, Merlin sauntered around the restrained aggressor, his finger touching the man's temple. Silence overtook him immediately, and a wisp of energy followed Merlin's finger back into his hand. He slipped that little wisp into his own head, taking hold of every dream the man ever had, whether sleeping or waking. He was not bewitched, per se. "Not exactly," was how Merlin chose to put it into words. There was no magical effect on the man, but he wasn't exactly sane either. "Well... in a way, he is. Any spell cast on him is not of a magical variety, but of his own choosing. The amount of devotion here can just barely be differentiated from magecraft. Imagine the Charisma Skill turned up to eleven, then multiplied by six. That is where his mind is, but his actions are of his own choosing when following the light at the end of an infinite tunnel."

[Apollymi]

"Yes. Normally when you are near it smells of flowers and annoyance. Even in my sleep..." she said to Merlin. "Especially in my sleep," she said that last bit as a correction. That might have been an oversimplification of what Merlin smelled like to her, or rather how his powers interacted with her person. Or maybe it was a confusion of emotions? Artoria couldn't know it, but as a person with a Dragon Core, the magical abilities of others tended to cause her to feel nothing but annoyance in her body, aggression and the desire to dominate and kill. All of which were held at bay, by Chivalry and Knighthood. Merlin was being coy and facing down fury with the same annoying smile on his face, giving her the advice of taking a magical skill. Artoria realized in the moment she had to stop thinking about this situation, because if she didn't she'd have to mentally rationalize the betrayal of Merlin letting her be raped as a lesson, which was the only way she could conceptualize him of all people not being the one to help her when he sulked about all the time. Did he realize it she wondered? Did he know how his attitude was being translated in her shattered brain? Excalibur was planted in the floor before her, mostly to keep her from lashing out partly because she felt better with a weapon in her hands, but she could have been exactly the sort of person who would kill him for the slight he'd just indirectly planted in her head as something he'd done.

Artoria knew from experience he'd decided that she didn't need the information she sought, but for a man who'd told her she'd be a monster who killed everything to protect everything... he was certainly stopping her ability to kill, and limiting what she could protect. He was even being more annoying than normal... was this because she was already upset? Probably, but there could be no true calm in the Queen of Knights while she was on the verge of a murderous rampage. In all actuality the only thing keeping her from murdering both this last ruffian and Merlin were the Knights standing before her. Actually, that wasn't entirely true, she could be calm but only while thoughts of murder drained what was left of her happiness from her soul. She could be calm but only while standing in front of these knights who followed her because they deserved the leader they sought. Instead of all of that, she got useful information out of Merlin, but it was so very conditional. This man who was so sure he was going to rape her wasn't bewitched. But instead he made his decisions based on the devotion he had into an infinite void with a light at the end of a tunnel. That was outrageous. Artoria herself knew the full devotion of her knights and she would never expect such actions from them... but Merlin did say this was his choice. "That is all I needed to know," these were the words of Artoria as she finally pulled her sword out of the ground. A mask of serenity was on her face, but those eyes of hers showed an emptiness she'd managed to hold off in this world. "The punishment for what was done and attempted here of his own volition is death, any objections?" Artoria would wait, and as the one who'd proclaimed the sentence she would carry it out. Of course, if any of the Knights had an objection she'd hear them out.

[Bloodedge]

Oh? That Dragon Core implanted in the Queen of Knights was paying more dividends than even Merlin, who planted said core, anticipated. The fact that she smelled him even while he was disguised meant only that integration had occurred spectacularly. "H'oh? Well, one might only hope the scent of flowers lets you dream peacefully," he said ever so casually. Of course, Merlin knew of the attempted rape of Artoria far in advance. He also knew just as well that no such thing would befall her this night. There was no lesson to be taught just yet, but instead a show of understanding. Artoria Pendragon had the Knights of the Round Table; she didn't need some old wizard looking over her shoulder and acting to her benefit... though she was going to have that anyway, in a more roundabout manner of speaking. "Sir Tristan, you performed as marvelously as I would expect of you... so I hear," he stated, that grin of his never fading for a moment.

And so, the sentence was passed. Artoria would see this assailant executed, and she'd announce the order with utmost stoicism to spite the seething fury under the surface. Sir Tristan had no objections. Sir Bedivere had no objections. Assaulting the Queen of Camelot in any way, would and should be punishable by noose or by sword. Merlin, however, stepped up to Artoria's rear. "One objection," he said. His hand rose, and he made sure it was abundantly clear that he was reaching out to touch the queen's shoulder. Slowly he went at first, until contact could be made. He'd look upon the queen directly. His eyes would glow, and he'd lay claim to her ire. "Queen Artoria Pendragon is no revenge-killer. Execution is a thing of justice." Ah, his objection was not to stay her blade. His objection was for the sole purpose of ensuring Artoria did not take the path of killing in anger. "Not because you're angry. Not because you've been wronged. Because it's right. Because it is a kindness to all who would suffer in the future. That is the way of Chivalry... I think."

[Apollymi]

Merlin didn't dispute what the Queen of Camelot thought he smelled like, what was more he claimed that he hoped it would let her sleep peacefully. Artoria would probably never sleep again. Rather, sleep was something done in comfort and was for all intents and purposes was a time of absolute vulnerability. She couldn't sleep now, she knew that, and the very thought of it, infuriated her. How could she sleep knowing someone was out to get her? Well, peacefully if all they wanted was to kill her. But they didn't want to kill her, they wanted to ruin her... who thinks of something like that?! No one should be capable of rest when something like that existed. There was no safety in the world if the one person who knew she could defend herself couldn't feel safe. The terrible thing about it was... she wasn't even that fearful for herself. She found the entire thing completely unreasonable, but what about those who couldn't fight for themselves. The outrage she felt for herself, she felt more because in all likelihood she wasn't first to experience this and because no one would tell her what she needed to know she wouldn't be the last. Merlin was making a decision that Artoria herself wouldn't have made, her own form of clarity would have allowed her to kill whomever gave such an order and wipe out any and everyone who would follow it. This was the way.

It was comforting to know that Tristan had been so very useful. She looked towards the red haired man, she'd have to remember to express some form of gratitude at some point. She didn't have it right now, well, that wasn't true. She was about to have exactly the form of gratitude that she could give. But Merlin was approaching her, so so slowly. It was like watching someone approach a wounded animal, which was about right for her. Of course, that hand made contact with her shoulder and her head turned to meet those eyes. His objection which he'd voiced when no one else had? Well, he didn't wish her to kill this man out of her own spite. Execution was justice? She was to uphold her Chivalry even now? What would happen as her anger drained from her soul? Well, that stoic exterior would come into alignment with her internal nature. There was something absolutely terrible about not being allowed her fury. Queen Artoria Pendragon wasn't a revenge killer, even if the person who embodied her very soul was a serial murderer for hire. Fine. "You do not sound like you know what Chivalry is Merlin," she said softly. Her eyes returned to the criminal their midst and her sword rose regardless. She was still going to kill this man... and whether she was calm or furious it was still going to happen. But an Execution was indeed not meant to be something of extreme malice, whether she harbored it or not. "No real objections, then." Ah, this was an Execution so she'd give one more chance. "Any last words?" she asked of the accused. Those eyes of hers were still green and furious just below the surface. But this was an execution not a revenge killing. There were standards to be upheld.

[Bloodedge]

Artoria Pendragon would not be one who murdered in cold blood, nor would she be one who acted on fury alone. This was the sole purpose Merlin had, the only thing he had to ensure. Even the aloof Mage of Flowers agreed that this man had to die for his actions. Perhaps his next life would be a better one, something distant from the goddess Ishtar and her influence. Well, that was just wishful thinking, wasn't it? Humans would never truly learn; those types would always find their roots eventually. Concepts like Chivalry were wasted on them, Merlin believed. Ah, but he didn't really have a full grasp of the concept himself. "I'm not a knight," he offered regarding his lack of full understanding. "I could kill him just because he's sitting there, and it wouldn't tarnish me at all."

Merlin spoke truth, though he wouldn't be one to kill at random either. In fact, he was hardly even one to take action since the birth of Artoria. A few things were done here and there in absolute secrecy, but that was all. Now then... execution was at hand. In her somewhat calmer state, Artoria offered a chance for some final words. None would come from the man─ only a grimace before he spat at the queen's feet. In his eyes, there was a threat that could never be fulfilled. He thirsted for it, though. He wanted to threaten the queen's virtues, and her entire sense of self. He wanted to go on about how she'd be reduced to a slave, a tool to be used in place of a most magnificent goddess... but alas, he'd been rendered incapable of using such a thing anyway. This man was already deciding that his next life would be spent hunting down Artoria Pendragon for these exact purposes. Maybe he could actually manage to carry those intentions over. . .

[Apollymi]

Merlin was not a knight. That much was something Artoria had always known. He claimed a single kill just because this man was sitting him wouldn't tarnish him at all. Strange, there was once a time in her life, where Artoria could have said the same exact sentence and meant it with absolute certainty. Of course, now she had standards and morals to uphold. That was always so taxing as a thing to do, but she never truly did it for herself. Artoria held herself to such standards for the sake and safety of everyone else. So here she stood her grip on her sword becoming properly full and now without the full storm of her ire behind the swing she knew it could be true. But what of the prisoner?

The look in his eye said he had more to say, it was full of something Artoria herself knew and understood. A threat of vengence, a promise of his continued threat a desire for her she could never properly comprehend. He'd die and try again would he? Yes, she really should completely and utter annihilate this man and every other like him, but she couldn't do that without reason, and more so than that... she truly couldn't do it without knowing what made him act this way in the first place. He spit at her feet? Fine. No one could say she hadn't made the offer and none could say she acted out of fury. In fact in a moment like this, one could say Artoria was at her peak as an individual. A beacon of light in a sea of darkness, even while meeting such a distaste for her own existence there was nothing to be felt by the Queen of Camelot. "Noted." She said aloud before raising Excalibur in her hand. There was no shining light, no nostalgia to welcome a hero to a valorous death... no. Here and now, Artoria was executioner, saving humanity from a rapists ideations. A downward swing perfectly placed and the man's head was severed from his body without much hassle, leaving it to roll as it would. Artoria stood straight and sheathed her weapon. Business as usual. "Cremate the bodies if there are any left. Have someone clean my room... I will be in the armory. Tristan, with me." And that was it. Artoria was going to the armory because she still wished to do something with her hands. And every weapon in Camelot not currently on someone was about to pass through her hands. She would not sleep. She could not even if she tried. But to put at ease her own Knights, she'd keep someone at her side, at all times. That is what she could offer as gratitude to one like Tristan who had saved her this day, absolute trust and faith.

[Bloodedge]

The single swing of a sword ended the final assailant's life. Whether he would return in another cycle or not, was entirely a mystery for the time being. Either way, the rolling of his head was something no one present peeled their eyes away from. Ah, a just kill. Merlin would credit Artoria for taking this path unto herself, though he'd never do so aloud without the accompanying bells and whistles of jest. It was he who took the parting words of Artoria, a casual bow used to acknowledge her order. "Spotless room, burning bodies. Understood, my king~" he said.

Sir Tristan did not expect to be called upon. Of course, it was officially the will of all knights present to have Artoria accompanied, at least until any threat to her life and sanctity subsided. To be the one requested for such a thing was the redhead's honor. "As you wish," he said, bowing his head just briefly. Off to the armory he'd go. His eyes were closed as always, yet he followed only a pace or two behind Artoria along her path. Where she was going, he didn't truly know. Either way, he was going to continue accompanying the Queen of Camelot until such a time as she deemed him useless.

[Apollymi]

Artoria's instructions were taken, as she always knew they would be. There was very little in her life that wasn't like this now. Any of the Knights present within this room and many who weren't would have killed that man if she didn't want to, but... That kill she took onto herself was not something she had to do. It was something she felt she had a moral obligation to do. Just the same she was uneasy. Her ire was gone, her Chivalry was wrapped around her and she was walking towards the one place that gave her peace regardless of her state of mind. Tristan was following just a step or two behind her. Strange, the knights always did this, even though she knew it would be fairly easy for them to overtake her shorter stride. A matter of respect she supposed, but still not one she understood herself. Yes, these were the kinds of thoughts she should have. Soft, unrelated, the kind that would help her empty her mind.

Once within the armory, Artoria walked towards a rack of short swords. Excalibur sheathed at her side, she picked up a short sword and swung it in her arm testing its weight. Fair enough a nice sword this one was. Not magical but it did its job. And what would she do with it now? Well, she'd take her favorite sitting position in the floor and produce from the new pocket in her dress a single whetstone. And as such it would begin. Her hand moving away from herself. Her mind emptying. The gentle movement of a single hand down a blade. This had replaced gun-cleaning of her old life. Artoria was running maintenance on the weapons of Camelot because she wouldn't be able to sleep and her mind wouldn't allow her anything else. There was an almost melodic chime each time the stone touched blade and Artoria herself seemed quite lost in it. This was the best she could do with herself right now, and so she'd do it.

This would happen well into the morning. And over time even more. Artoria never looked tired and she likely never would not to anyone normal. But the more time that passed after this incident the more obvious it would become that the Queen of Camelot was suffering internally. Someone was now always at her side, and the tools of Camelot were immaculate. She led Knight training, she gave orders, she helped people. She committed herself to every job as she was supposed to, and took care to complete them with the utmost chivalry. She worked towards her overall goal of taking the next holy grail at every opportunity. She even eventually returned to her room, some days later seeming to have gotten over the attack on her person. But one would find that instead of sleeping at night the Queen of Camelot sat atop her bed, with her back against the wall. An eye on her window and an eye on her door, with her sword drawn in her lap and still that dagger under her pillow. And then she'd go out the next morning post bath and a change of clothes not once succumbing to sleep. Not even finding a need to have to fight it. The desire to make herself that vulnerable again simply didn't exist within her body anymore. But how many days would it be before she simply couldn't take it anymore? Ten or so... with no new leads and apparently no one daring to enter Camelot again, Artoria was left with few options. There was once person she could ask for information and she supposed that was something she could do. She wouldn't like it though... but at least that one wouldn't withhold the information she sought. Ten days, no sleep and tired, Artoria had but one thing to say after all was said and done. "I am taking a walk, Tristan... with me." Tristan had become someone she simply found herself relying upon without realizing she'd done so, of course it helped that Tristan was where she needed him to be and slept only a little bit more than she did for reasons she did not wish to pry about. Men were strange like that, none would ever share such information, but she knew the crux of his problem, he was sad. She on the other hand was furious so perhaps that was fine. Where were they walking to? The City of Uruk, she had a single question for the King of Heroes and she would have it answered.

[Bloodedge]

While Artoria processed her fury and concerns, a knight from the Round Table of Camelot was always within earshot. Most had no reason to know she refrained from sleep during this ten or so days, except... Sir Tristan. If no one else, he could tell the sleepless, the depressed and the disorganized, whether it showed properly or not. To one such as him, hiding these things was equivalent to putting up a sign. So, of course it was Tristan called upon when Artoria decided to make her next move. He would not question the woman, nor would he make an effort to ease her mind. Whatever peace she found had to be her own accomplishment, lest it be both fleeting and meaningless.

However Artoria and her guardian knight reached the city of Uruk, strangely, King Gilgamesh would not be found in his throne room. He'd taken just a bit of time to himself this day. A short trip had taken the king to the cedar forest, a place he thought to visit for only a single reason. None were told where he was going when he stepped beyond Uruk's wall. None needed to know... no, none could know that he took the morning to grieve over the place he and Enkidu earned fame. If they had never faced that beast Huwawa, perhaps things would be different today. Perhaps he and Enkidu would still be living life to the fullest, having never been gazed upon by that damn goddess. Sadly, there was no way to rewrite that which had already transpired, even in his infinite supply of legendary Artifacts. He had to move forward, taking only these fleeting moments to reflect. There was a very real chance that encountering Gilgamesh would be a simple matter of... well, catching him as he reentered the city, where he took additional time to view its progress with his own eyes.

[Apollymi]

Artoria stepped into Uruk burdened with glorious purpose and sleeplessness. None could question how she found her way here, and none would question why this was the place she chose to go. She had a specific man in her head whom she needed to ask a specific question. And then after that... maybe, just maybe she'd be able to do something that would let her sleep. Many days ago she'd given up being angry on her own behalf, and now she wished to know information if only to use it to do the thing she meant to d in the first place protect everyone else from the experience. If she managed it, she might even be able to sleep again. Probably not but at the very least she could take solace in someone else after not experiencing the same thing. Too bad when she approached the throne room there was no Gilgamesh and no one knew where he'd run off to, what an extra annoyance. Her seething anger hadn't returned but a wasted trip was not something she could tolerate. She supposed she would go looking for him instead of wasting anyone else's time, besides what she wished to speak of, didn't necessarily need an audience.

Artoria could not be anything but encouraging to children, even when angry or on a mission. And every time she visited this city one in particular found her nearby a specific statue. This blue haired child would be looking wide-eyed catching sight of Artoria and running up to her. "Eh?! The other one is missing today... did you replace her with a man?" asked the child which made the smallest upturn of Artoria's lips happen. Artoria stooped to eye level to have an interesting conversation. "My sister is busy... he is here to guard me. He is my knight as I was hers. Does this make sense?" she explained and questioned. A gentle nod from the boy would ensue as he understood the power dynamic. "No new stories to tell?" she asked politely always willing to put off an audience with the king for the whimsy of a small child, given the reason she hadn't slept a little innocence would do no harm. "I could tell a few more but the other ones are all boring. No action. A flood, or a man who becomes too clever, these aren't the sorts of tales that would interest the lady with the sword," said Aladdin with his hands pressed against his sides. "Action, adventure, folly and triumph these should be offerings to one like you," this child said while still giving the most grandiose gestures. Artoria in a moment like this remembered being an older sister and it gave her the slightest spark of happiness. "I suppose then I shall wait on another great story then," she said giving the child a pat on the head. She was facing the entrance of the city and who would see there, but the man she sought, King of Heroes, Gilgamesh. Artoria rose from her position that light touch atop the child's head and then walked towards the man she had to question directly. Her back to the child that happy light diminished and the original purpose of her walk, came back into her mind full force.

[Bloodedge]

Children were at play. Adults worked. All throughout this great city of Uruk, people were moving about, which Gilgamesh found... good. The improvement of this city was still something to strive for. Over time, he was learning the faces and attached names of everyone in the city, but... today, there were two figures that stuck out like a sore thumb. While one was some unknown mongrel, the one presumably holding that dog's leash was very familiar indeed. He did say her absence would be but a blink. It seemed now was the time of her premature return, undoubtedly seeking the king himself if one were to judge based on her immediate rise.

In the streets of Uruk, two powerful monarchs stepped toward one another in unison. Many citizens looked upon this with worry, and many looked on in awe. Both parties upheld a stern visage at all times, so what was to come of them meeting out in the open like this? "Queen of Knights," Gilgamesh spoke upon taking his final step, well within earshot and even striking distance of Camelot's queen. His eyes met hers, seeing that raging flame he was so very fond of. Alas, this one was different. There was darkness beneath it all now; a darkness unspoken to the masses as she carried herself with a monarch's bearings. She certainly had no need of an audience─ that much was clear. So then, Gilgamesh would begin walking anew, just past Artoria and her guard dog. "You have business. Come," was all he said. With that, Gilgamesh would move forward until he climbed the long stairs up the Citadel of Uruk. He was not heading to his throne room, though─ not this time. This time, he moved toward the dining hall he would proceed to have emptied of all people.

[Apollymi]

Ah the presence of Artoria and Tristan were noticed but not chatted about, until of course, Artoria and Gilgamesh walked towards each other. A point of tension that could be clearly seen on the faces of most adults and one met with quizzical and excited looks by children. Not a word was spoken between these two for several seconds and though Artoria's outward bearing looked no different than it always did, that moment of eye contact was apparently enough. Artoria was no longer a seething ball of fury, but she still was not pleased. It did not help that she hadn't slept but it was not as if sleep were possible for her at this moment. So, she rather quietly followed behind the man.

She took the steps up the citadel with all the grace she had, each one one taking no great amount of effort. Her facial expression was unchanged, but those eyes of hers were always so full of something. Those steps behind Gilgamesh led not to his throne room but instead to a dining hall which he immediately had cleared. That was probably for the best. Though Artoria herself was on equal terms with every knight in her care, she doubted anyone would understand what she was about to say. Her understanding of this part of the world was, that until the rising of Egypt, they were as far as they knew, a lonely speck on this eternity of a planet. 'Exhale. Deep breath. Do not be rude. Do not draw your weapon. Do not tarnish your honor.' Artoria was singing herself more mantras in her head than she'd ever needed to before. She'd burned with a bit of fury the first time they met, now her demeanor was entirely different. Artoria was no longer full of hatred, now she was simply bringing herself as far away from the brink of being an assassin as she could. "I will start by saying I have no respectful way to ask this question. I mean no offense in posing this question but I need an answer..." Overly polite Artoria was speaking because the one in her head could say nothing good and couldn't pretend where she was. The Queen of Camelot was not currently bound by all her Knights and their expectations and Tristan had been at her side so he already knew the most of her distress, she had no need to hide it further. "Which one of the deities is running a rape cult?"

[Bloodedge]

Once they were within the dining hall, Gilgamesh seated himself at the end of the long table. Artoria seemed content to speak, but he did not yet seem ready to listen. Ah, but he heard every word she said. He could not ignore his ideal queen, though there was some complexity in her question. A rape cult, she mentioned. His hand had been in the middle of rising, and suddenly, it took on a new purpose. Crimson eyes shifted to the red-haired knight. "A king will not speak of such matters with audience in Uruk," he said, intending to have the knight sent away. Tristan, however, set his gaze upon Artoria. He would not simply leave her side; he hadn't a clue who this man was. Well, that wasn't true. What he heard of King Gilgamesh, however, did not make him believe the alleged King of Heroes was not the ringleader of this cult. Gilgamesh was not taking no for an answer on this matter, though.

The next movement of his hand was a gesture toward an empty chair. It was in this room that he met with the lesser rulers of Mesopotamia, whenever Gilgamesh himself was famished and not wanting to wait on his meal while dealing with them. He would speak to Artoria properly only when they were alone. Given the topic, he would make no exceptions about this. Divine Gates produced an array of foods to fill the table, ranging from lamb to fish, and everything both around and between. Everything on the table was suited for the gods themselves, including the finest wine this world had to offer. "Sit. Food for the belly and drink for the soul will accompany this topic."

[Apollymi]

Gilgamesh hadn't immediately answered her, but that was about what she expected. She'd figured out several things about the King of Heroes in the visits she'd made to this place while helping her sister, part of them having to do with the way he considered himself as king. Artoria was content to see those equivalent to her and take their council and advice. Gilgamesh saw no one as equal to him, but few as questionably passable. She noted in a moment like this that he'd not had so much to say about her younger sister the Queen of Saints, so it was specifically those he saw as unproven who were of issue to him. 'This man really annoys me,' that was her most casual thoughts. Her eyes closed for just a moment after Tristan looked at her as she knew he would. She was in charge of him, and he'd take her at her word if she said she was fine. "Tristan give us a few minutes someone will scream if I have need of you..." that was the fairness she'd offered. And obviously when she said someone she meant the person already sitting. In the meantime, a show of faith a monumental one as well, Artoria's armor vanished from her person for the first time in ten days.

An empty seat was gestured to and that empty seat would be taken. The sword Excalibur by her side and a dagger very comfortably situated in her lap. She watched as a spread of food was created from those Gates and considered being curious about how they worked she was offered food but just as sleep had evaded her, her appetite was minimal as well. "My appetite is fleeting at best," she said flickering her gaze to the man directly. She'd already posed her question and she intended to have it answered. She wondered if he would be the type to insist she eat something, he seemed like it.

[Bloodedge]

Word was given for Sir Tristan to take leave, so leave, he would. "As you wish," he said. Naturally, a bow to Artoria was offered, and even one to Gilgamesh prior to the knight's departure. Gilgamesh found himself glaring at the fleeing redhead not with animosity, but with a hint of interest. With that, his gaze shifted toward Artoria once more. It was with great interest that he watched her armor fade away to reveal that signature blue dress she wore beneath. Magnificent. Alas, the way she seated herself and rejected the idea of food gave credence to her earlier question.

With all these luxurious food items laid out before him, Gilgamesh chose to take up a single piece of barley bread. He knew of the appetite-related issue Artoria spoke of all too well. He'd suffered much the same at the beginning of his journey. "You turn down food fit for divinities. I take it this cult you speak of has been appropriately eliminated," he said. Though the woman would not eat, he would not make such a demand. She was free to make her own terrible decisions, but either way, a golden jug in Gilgamesh's hand filled two lapiz lazuli chalices with wine. "You do not drink to sate your appetite," he added. Now then, there was a matter of utmost importance to address. Gilgamesh leaned back in his chair after lowering the jug, taking one chalice into his own hand and sipping slowly. This was an annoyance he saw coming, though not nearly to this extent. Ishtar had seen his interactions with the Queen of Knights, probably believing herself worthy of him still. Jealousy and rage had taken his friend. Would that same jealousy truly aim to defile the future queen of the known world? If so, there was a great deal of context to be taken in... and solemnly would he share it. "O Proud Knight-Queen, tell me. What do you know of my epic poem?"

[Apollymi]

Tristan was a good knight and a better man than most could be, admittedly Artoria wished he was a little less sad. But his depressed disposition meant there was a looming crimson ghost of company complete with music for the time she could not sleep. Ah, but Gilgamesh was staring not quite all animosity either. Given her words he assumed that the cultist she spoke of were no more, and as far as the group that had invaded her kingdom this was the truth. "All but one were eliminated within seconds, thanks in large part to Sir Tristan. The last I executed within the hour after I determined he would not give more information. It was admittedly a very strange night," Artoria said with almost complete disassociation. Yes, because if she didn't take herself out of the observation, she likely would have had to deal with the fact that she saw a murder scene in what should have been the comfort of her own bedroom. She'd have to deal with the fact that the real reason she couldn't sleep was because she felt unsafe. Yes, best to skip that kind of thought and deal with only the open-ended bits of question.

Two chalices and the question of if she'd drink to do something about the base of her lacking appetite. Artoria gave it some thought, she was giving Gilgamesh in general the same benefit of the doubt that she gave the Pharaohs of Egypt. And it wasn't like she could drink for the sake of happiness in Camelot, as she was the sovereign. "I will take a drink and maybe a snack..." she mentioned reaching for her cup. She stared down at its contents and took the first of the sips and held it in her hand instead of the dagger in her lap. All would be fine she supposed. Whatever the case, she supposed they were taking the long way around, given his question. Had she read his epic? Not at all, but she'd heard the tale in the most interesting way possible. "I am remiss to say I have not read your epic, but the story of it, in a general sense is familiar to me. Aladdin, the lad with the long blue hair outside.... loves his King. And gave me and my sister a great rendition of the tale, including an entire fifteen minute list of amusingly placed facts about a goddess whom you had no interest in. All of which he relayed to me, because I expressed interest in the statue outside. Is there a connection?" Artoria had a queenly disposition and was managing civil conversation in spite of the fact that her question had not yet been given an answer. She'd had a few sips of drink and gained enough appetite to reach for a piece of bread as well.

[Bloodedge]

So, the alleged cult had been dealt with. Good. Artoria made it seem as if they'd managed nothing in their attempts, though of course, he would have been more than surprised if they did get anywhere. "It is no surprise that you received no information. Those mongrels are best sent to Irkalla without question," he commented prior to another sip of wine. As this occurred, he witnessed Artoria beginning to partake as well. Drinking alone would suffice, but no, she even took up a piece of bread.

As for the following of his epic tale, she'd not read a line of it. That was no surprise. Tablets were beginning to circulate, embellished as they were for the sake of poetry, though such a thing had only been occurring somewhat locally. Artoria did hear of the story, however, from a boy named Aladdin. Ah, that blue-haired brat was one Gilgamesh knew well. He was something of a star among his peers, always rambling in the middle of the streets to any who listened... and many liked to listen. Gilgamesh had been thinking for some time that it may be worthwhile to hear a tale from that lad once or twice. Maybe he would do so when time allowed it. That was something for later, though. For now, there were many important and depressing facts missing in Artoria's understanding of his own story. It all began with a sigh. "Hmph. The boy certainly fancies his exciting yarns. There is a connection, more to that statue than anything." While he spoke, Gilgamesh lowered his chalice to the table. He could not bring himself to drink while sharing this information. No, he simply had to blurt it all out, and maybe then erase the recollection from his mind for a time. "Enkidu, my friend, my brother in all but blood, is the face of that statue. Together we shared glory and all that came along the beaten path. He took my side when I slayed Huwawa, the Terror himself. It was then that I became a Hero, when the patron goddess of this very city thought to claim me as her own. Even I could never have imagined the rejection causing that same goddess to call down the Bull of Heaven upon my city. Together, we slayed it as well... and Enkidu became a Hero, only to be cursed by the gods. It is almost an irony. He was born a weapon meant to restrain me. We became friends, and he stood at my side as the ultimate tool. That is, until the day he chained down another creation of the gods and we rejoiced together. Surely it was some jealous fit of Ishtar's in her father's chambers which led to Enkidu being taken from this world."

[Apollymi]

Oh. There was no judgement about the number of deaths Artoria and her Knight handed out to the ones who broke into her space. "One does not simply break into Camelot. I had to ensure the safety of my people and find out who threatened me, with a form of violence that should never be a weapon. Shamefully, all I received for the conversation was some rather colorful new language used as a reference for me," she mentioned. There was still just a bit of outrage in Artoria. Just a tiny bit, but she'd already separated herself from it for the most part, now she was simply relaying information, in a casual conversation while eating bread and drinking wine. This was fine and strangely she felt more at ease now, than she had for the last ten days in Camelot.

Apparently, Gilgamesh did know of the child she spoke of. He claimed Aladdin liked his exciting tales and Artoria could agree with that notion. "Well, of course he does, he is a child... And in fairness, those are the best parts of stories to have explained with the magic of childishness included," Artoria said. In truth she figured there were large chunks of the tale missing, she'd decided whenever she got up to it that she would eventually ask Gilgamesh the truth of this tale. Of course, it seemed at the time she would not have to... he stopped drinking to relay the parts of the tale that couldn't be interpreted by the mind of a child. The sadness, the loss of a friend... the curse proffered by a goddess to remove a Divine construct from the world because she was offended. The jealousy of the one called Ishtar was apparently dangerous given her whims would be given into by other gods. Artoria's brows came together in almost abject confusion. "I do not have words. That is truly an unjust end to a friendship... my condolences," Artoria said these words and strangely she meant them. At this point it wasn't just a matter of her being polite, it was a matter of knowing and understanding enough about the human condition to know a man grieving when she saw one. Artoria wasn't soulless or unfeeling and though on several occasions she'd admitted that this man annoyed her, she wouldn't wish such a fate on an enemy, she truly didn't wish it on an ally.

"I have heard that name outside of your epic. And while I do not fully understand all of the nuances, it would seem at least the goddess of the underworld shares your distaste." she said of the Goddess Ishtar. Still he spoke of this as if it was connected to her earlier question. Was there some piece of context she did not understand, or was the implication that the Goddess Ishtar had a cult of rapists. The cogs of Artoria's mind were turning and the conclusion she was coming to, was not one of fondness. Having finished a piece of bread she paused that light behind her eyes flickering. Surely, he could not mean what she thought he meant.

[Bloodedge]

To say one did not merely break into Camelot was no different than saying one could not break into strong-walled Uruk. It was a possibility in neither case, yet Ishtar had her ways of being annoying. At least both places were sure to be protected; perhaps those two could agree on the swiftness by which they dealt with bothersome intrusions. They did not agree on whether her chosen form of violence against the assailants should have been utilized, though. "There are times one must weaponize whatever possible. Whether by decapitation or by emasculation, criminals shall be punished," he declared firmly.

The innocence of a child would not be stamped out. The boy, Aladdin, was free to tell his tales by his own methods, but the true story was far displaced from the likes of a young one's ramblings. In truth, that much could be considered only the tragic beginning to a long climb. What stood at the top of a tall mountain was Artoria herself, as well as a space devoid of Ishtar. Ah, Ishtar, the root of all his problems. Hearing that Kur shared his distaste for the entitled love goddess was like hearing the strum of a harp. Regardless, there was more to his tale yet. Gilgamesh received condolences for the loss of his companion, but things only began with that. "When I watched my friend die, as he returned to clay in my arms, I fell to despair. I embarked on a journey to find immortality, fearing the loss of a legacy Enkidu and I built together with my own eventual passing. It was my wish to find a method of reviving Enkidu, bringing him life eternal while taking it for myself as well. Decades later, I found nothing I sought. My only consolation came in the form of an herb in the gods' garden─ one meant to restore youth. Wonderful still, is it not? I certainly thought so, until it was snatched from my clutches by a lowly serpent, never to be seen again. Farther still I went, having given up on everything... and who do I encounter? An assortment of ruffians and the Queen of Knights herself. A beacon of light amongst leagues and leagues of endless darkness, and then... nothing. My return was soon met by none other than Ishtar, still pining for my attention. Jealousy took my friend from me, so what else is to be expected when I have chosen a bride not the goddess grasping at my heel?"

[Apollymi]

Two places so very far away from each other were both protected, albeit in slightly different ways. Of course, she and Gilgamesh didn't necessarily agree on many things. It was a very clear, that there was almost a generational divide between them, this dinner alone was proof of that. Speaking of dinner, Artoria was at least drinking and found herself finished with that piece of bread rather quickly. Was her appetite returning, or was it simply easier to eat when she felt so relatively safe? "I can understand the stance, and would be the first to mete out a just punishment when it is required. So long as said punishment would not tarnish my honor," she said. Was she safe? Irrespective of the thing which it was, she was rather content, she reached for a rack of lamb and settled it onto her plate. Abandoning for a few moments that hand on her dagger and the other on the cup. A fork and knife would be found in her hands instead came to be in her hands and she would eat. Strangely she still had all the composure of a dignitary, but ate with the speed of a teenage boy who needed to protect his plate, seeming to almost shovel food into her face, neatly and efficiently.

She was having a second by the time he started his tale anew. Oh? This wasn't the end of his sorrows. He lost a friend and there was still yet something to be done by him. His words about the loss of his friend and the despair he felt, that was so very human, how could she do anything but empathize? He worried for his legacy? Every ruler did, Artoria herself was no exception to this... but there was still something rather outlandish about the man's words. He spoke as if his friend could not return from death of his own volition. Oh? Had he died before that was possible, was there a time when that was the case? Artoria had seen a great many things in her own lifetime, but never had she heard an experience like this one. Between bites she found herself studying the King of Heroes face. It truly was a sad life to lead. He even claimed that at the end of his journey after losing everything he found her, while using some rather flowery descriptions to boot. Artoria's eyes widened, she would never actually get used to anyone thinking of her in such a way, and averted her gaze immediately. That was a lost cause, she would not speak on that for a time though. She could involve herself in his life, but she truly didn't see herself as fit to be someone's wife. Nor did she truly think she was qualified to take up the life of a man who wished for a legacy while knowing she was incapable of giving it. Not that she was considering such a thing. A sip of wine and quiet consideration. "I have slain a dragon, fought armies and united the land one trial by combat at a time," she started softly. "And still that tale is something well beyond a single life's sorrows," she said of her understanding. "Your friend, is it truly impossible for his return?" she asked gently. Artoria tended to chose hope over all else, perhaps given the actions of the Goddess Ishtar, there was some caveat to the return of Enkidu. But there were other thoughts in Artoria's mind and that gentle shifting of her eyes, was occurring as thought about the Goddess known as Ishtar. 'Still the jealousy of a woman is dangerous, especially one who is able to manipulate others to act on her behalf,' she thought. The more she thought about it though, the more she realized that the Goddess Ishtar was a sin. Her existence was a violation against women everywhere, because she did not follow the one rule of life presented from one woman to another. From one girl to another.

[Bloodedge]

Was his tale a sorrowful one? Yes, it was. That wasn't all it was, though. Gilgamesh thought back to the day he lost that herb to a common beast. His reaction this day would be much the same as it was then. "Hmph. You may consider it a thing of sadness, but is it not a comedy, my tale?" he inquired. Yes, that sounded right in the king's head. He who possessed everything in the world, who collected all of the world's treasures without concern, was in-turn refused all that he truly desired by the world at large. The King of Heroes discovered that there was indeed a form of sadness that could only be laughed at as a mockery. Ah, and that was just the start. The truly hilarious fact had not yet been shared. That brilliant woman stuffing her face across from him existed in this world during a time of resurrection. Gilgamesh took up his chalice again, downing multiple gulps of wine while looking across the table. First came mention of the queen's apparent appetite. "It is to your liking, yes? Whether arms, food or wine... only the best," he said in a strangely flat manner. This was not a time for the typical showy behavior; he couldn't muster it. Now they were on the topic of Enkidu's return, and the absolute hilarity of the situation as a whole. "Tell me, Queen of Knights, do the people of this era fathom a desperation mighty enough to attempt resurrection by weeping? For days I sat by my friend's side as his body returned to the world. The coldness of that husk can never be forgotten. It was only during that battle for the Holy Grail that I learned one could return themselves from Irkalla's grasp. To think, some decades earlier, and..." He paused, thinking the matter over once more. Perhaps a delayed death of Enkidu would have let the king's brother return of his own volition, sparing him of that entire journey and the leagues of darkness, both literal and figurative, that came with it. But... "No. The gods of this world are vile creatures. Even if my friend could have once returned, they would have made it an impossibility when cursing him."

[Apollymi]

Gilgamesh had a question to ask of Artoria. He wished to know if she thought his tale a comedy. Artoria looked back up at the king as she reached for her cup. She'd carefully consider how she would respond to that question, and when she had the right answer she spoke. "Unless the word comedy means something vastly different here, I would not say it is such..." she said giving a pause. "I think such a tale is a thing of beauty, sorrow and even irony... but it is not necessarily one which I can connect to comedy," she finished before taking another sip of wine. She then reached for her third rack of lamb. She'd not eaten so much in quite a while, her appetite seemed to be voracious in a moment like this. It wasn't that the Queen of Knights was overly concerned with her figure, nor was she the type of person to overindulge. It was good and she was offered it so she was eating, and it was quite good. Oh he'd noticed that, her eyes shifted from her plate and she finished the bite she'd so recently taken. "This lamb is really good. It is better than the one my brother made for us and even that was great..." she said that memory of one of the last family dinners she'd experience made her eyes widen immediately. "Do not tell him I said that," her brother was younger than herself by just a few minutes, but they were such different people. She could imagine his reaction and it would be the type of manic she showed in relation to other aspects of her personality. Yes, best to let that little comment die, and be taken as the compliment it was intended as.

Ah, but seriousness seemed to return, like the tides at the edge of a beach. There was a question of the return of Enkidu and what Gilgamesh had to say about the potential was not very hopeful. The former divine creation had been cursed to return to the earth and his friend and mourned his death in a manner some would consider extreme. But apparently the gods were vile creatures and his friend could not return even with time. That was a matter of true sadness even for Artoria, but he'd posed a question to her and she had something both hopeful and ominous to say. "The rules of death are quite specific so, that does not happen often. There are legends of magical creatures that can resurrect the dead, heal wounds or be sacrificed to certain purposes but what I have heard of those are not necessarily good ways to return," she answered clearly. "The real sadness of our current world below comes when one refuses to return," she said softly. "There are exceptions though, some are outside the normal cycle and can not return, but for every case that happens, it would only be balanced if the opposite were true," she said. Was that statement comforting? Was it meant to be? Artoria found herself speaking to another and being understanding, but the type of interaction she had with Gilgamesh leading up to now, was also very similar to how she made friends. He didn't seem the type to know or understand friendship in that manner but she could offer him someone he could talk to as a normal person until he figured that out. In truth, she wasn't speaking specifically of this case, she was speaking of what she knew of her own. When Artoria died, she would not be returned to the world, she'd have to make the most of her life, setting up for her twin to follow. To that end, her life, her goals and her honor had purpose...

[Bloodedge]

Beauty? Sorrow? Irony? Yes, indeed. These were the very things Gilgamesh found comedic about the events of his life, and the aftermath of Ishtar's first appearance. He'd once wondered if the world had relegated him to rising to impossible heights, only to be dropped into the abyss and forced to climb his way out. In that irony, there was humor, right? Surely so. "Hmph. Then we disagree once more. It is that irony which makes it a comedy. I am Gilgamesh, the King of Heroes who amassed all the world's treasures, yet this is my fate," he said. There were a few things missing in the context of his words, though. Gilgamesh himself had been the one to gain the gods' ire, so why was it Enkidu they cursed? Had it been him instead, Enkidu would have roamed the world free, unmatched by anyone. Being the only remaining one of the pair, all Gilgamesh could manage was to act on words once spoken by his brother. Enkidu once wished for the king to be one with his people, and here he was, working towards exactly that.

Artoria had a brother, did she? Her list of family members was growing by the meeting. As for the comparison between the lamb she ate now, and what her apparent chef of a brother prepared last, he had little to say regarding a difference. "Perhaps it was this brother of yours who prepared it. My golden capital contains everything past, present and future. I have long since lost track of all that is within, and where most of it came from."

These "rules" of death were a concept not always known to this world. Death was a matter of finality once, unless the gods deemed it necessary to see one's return. Now, people could choose for themselves whether returning was necessary. How laughable it was to wonder if that had been the case when Enkidu perished as well. What if the king's only companion had the ability to return, but made the decision to remain in Kur's domain? No... that would be far too cruel for the likes of Enkidu, the pure soul that he was. Those thoughts aside, Artoria spoke of things he'd previously seen... in the distant future. "A utopia beyond the perceivable time of this world; the fate of King Arthur," he repeated from a memory of that very vision. He'd seen this woman's final moments. Damned be the beauty she spoke of in his own tale; that was a sight to behold. The fall of King Arthur, rather Queen Artoria Pendragon... and the collapse of a thousand dreams unrealized in a moment of parting. That was a true thing of beauty, sorrow, and irony, for she carried with her the hopes and dreams of the world without seeing her own to fruition. "You seek not your own happiness, when you know of your own demise?"

[Apollymi]

The pair did disagree once more, but apparently it was just semantics. At this point, Artoria was sure it would be less time consuming to figure out what they agreed upon, instead of making a list of things which did not count as common ground. Of course, his explanation of his thoughts on this matter made it all the more clear what he truly meant. He found the state of his life after reaching so high to be ironic. "I am certain there are very few points of agreement between us. We are very different people," she commented seeming to understand just a bit more about the man in a moment like this. "But if you can still laugh when considering your life in such a way... there is hope," she sad ever so carefully. Artoria was certain that anyone who could laugh at their own misfortunes would either eventually get over them or hand themselves over to death with no contest. He did not seem like the type to just accept death so there was at least hope for him.

Artoria's family included four children her elder-half sister, her twin brother and their younger sister. King Gilgamesh had the pleasure of meeting only the youngest. She had the oddest feeling he would not truly get along with her elder sister, though they might come to some sort of mutual understanding and her brother? Well, that one was up in the air, but it didn't really matter long term, he was more personable than she was... while simultaneously being more awkward. And what was this, the food within his city was from all points in time, it was possible that her brother made the lamb she had just finished eating. A smile came to her face so genuine in nature it should have been dazzling. Why? Because of the thought of her brother slaving away in a kitchen for the perfect cut and cook on a single piece of lamb. "I hope he did. I hope he continues to do the things that truly make him happy," Ah. Words like that were ones Artoria always had for her family members, her thoughts about the Queen of Saints were obvious because of how she chose to deal with her and work with her no matter what, but Artoria wanted that sort of thing for all of her siblings. She was happiest in life, when they were happy, and that was simply her nature.

It seemed Gilgamesh knew of her ultimate fate, though he did not mention the name of that place. A sip of wine and Artoria was pleasantly full for the first time in a fortnight and more so than that having a pretty reasonable conversation. The King of Heroes knew of her future and still tried to connect himself to her for reasons she couldn't begin to understand. He even went on to question how she sought no happiness for herself while knowing her death was eminent. "I am not afraid of death, I never have been. I can walk towards that future because it will give me the sort of happiness I would seek otherwise. It is a future I see getting brighter with every step, even if I am not in it," she said. Artoria was remarkably selfless as an individual. Not specifically for the world at large, most of her was devoted first and foremost to her siblings. Seeing them happy gave her a level of happiness she could not achieve for herself. Her own hopes and dreams had been crushed long ago, she barely remembered the kinds of things she would have wanted for herself, but those faces so much like hers with light and smiles. Those were things she lived for, and what she was willing to die over. Every step that took her towards her future was peppered with a decision that kept them in mind. Making the world a better place, carrying their hopes and dreams, until they could bear the weight of them, killing everyone to protect everyone... those were things she took unto herself. Her reason for this was rather simple, the smiles on those faces, so much like her own... to see them in truth was something she should have envied of them because she simply didn't know it herself. Because she could not know it, she'd give it freely at any turn, no matter the cost to herself. Perhaps this was a strange notion? Well, given what he'd said in their previous battle he wouldn't agree with her.

[Bloodedge]

Indeed, there were very few things they could fully agree on, if there was anything at all. Another point they may have disagreed on was the matter of "hope" to be found in his ability to laugh at the situation at hand. Where was there such a thing as hope? In recent times, he'd been developing the ability to see various possible futures. In that, there was no hope─ only confirmation. Hope could be delivered to Artoria, though. When told of the chance that her brother produced that rack of lamb somewhere in the timeline of this world, it seemed she wanted to believe he did. Well, she even said it outright. The phrase dazzling did not properly capture what Gilgamesh beheld in that moment. The very stars could be blinded by such a sight, and a culmination of supernovas would be a mere dying candle in comparison. Watching the shift of Artoria Pendragon's face should have been against several laws of the world, but Gilgamesh would not be one to look away even for a moment. It was as if all these dark topics were completely nonexistent for a time, and that was... fine.

Ah, but Artoria was not one who made the most rational decision for the self. She lived her life for the sake of others? How ridiculous. "You fool," he said with a sigh. Of course she would be like this. After his own experiences, he could not fault her for offering the others around her some form of joy, but the fact that she abstained from seeking or acknowledging her own satisfaction was almost disgusting. Luckily for her, Gilgamesh's decision had long since been made. He would be fixing that little problem she didn't even realize she had. Actually... now that he thought about it, he had an even greater issue with the woman's outlook. Her sense of self was no less poor than that of Enkidu, who reduced himself to a mere tool even in his dying moments. She would take some satisfaction in the high spirits of others by her own design, but then what? When in life would she truly have lived? "There is much more you may yet become, Queen of Knights. But, you needn't worry. I will personally see to it that you understand," he said not as a matter of conjecture, but of fact. The testing of his visions hadn't shown him any wrong results yet, so he was filled with certainty that Artoria Pendragon would one day be laid claim to.

[Apollymi]

Dark topics forgotten for a small space of time, a smiling Artoria, what a rare set of circumstances. For her part in this, Artoria had even managed to eat and relax somewhat over the course of this meeting. Moreover she was willing to hear out what Gilgamesh had to say, even knowing she wouldn't agree. How strange, that she didn't find his company completely stifling when she spent her spare time in the company of her many knights. She'd beaten them all in combat and in so doing come to understand them. Over the course of this meal, she'd come to understand quite a bit about the King of Heroes and was gently coming to understand that most of the way he spoke was bravado. She found this was likely especially true knowing about the apparent permanent death of his friend.

Ah, but his bravado didn't really have any bounds. This man was so certain he'd have more to do with the future of Artoria's life. He made it sound like she'd allow him more space in her day to day life, enough to influence her in anyway. She could only chuckle about it as a thought. "And another point we disagree on. I do not expect you to understand my behavior. In truth the only people who do are my siblings... that is fine," she said as she finished that cup off and sat it down. Those green eyes of hers flickered over to the King of Heroes and she could not help but wonder how he so certainly asserted himself into the life of another sovereign. The implication of his words wasn't the sort of friendly working relationship she expected in an empire. "I do not worry about my own life, and you should not either. You are so certain you can change the path I walk, so sure I would allow you to assert yourself into my life. You realize this is at least partly the reason I find you annoying do you not?" The question she posed wasn't even aggressive, she was actually curious about what made him content to insert himself into her existence. Artoria Pendragon, had united Albion under herself, she'd beaten many kingdoms into submission to create the future Albion she saw, she didn't see the need to change course knowing what her life was, in truth... Just the prologue of a true adventure. She was going to die and go to Avalon, this was a fact. She was stuck at a bodily age of fifteen and would never progress beyond it. She was barren and thus unfit for anything resembling being queen, even in her own country, much less in his. He should have realized all of this information already but still he sat here claiming to change her outlook.

[Bloodedge]

"A point of disagreement brought about by your inability to see the truth," he corrected. Yes, perhaps her siblings did understand her behavior, but one had to wonder how truly accepting of it they were. The human soul was fragile and reliant on others in so many ways. Surely those whose happiness she sought while sacrificing her own, equally desired her satisfaction in life. Blind as she was to this notion, Gilgamesh refrained from further speaking on the topic. It was a fool's argument to have currently, and it seemed... that was someone else's fated discussion.

Ah, but his own destiny was a topic as well. Few possibilities saw a union with the Queen of Knights, but one of those paths would undoubtedly be taken. He selected with full ambition, knowing for himself that there was no greater treasure he could acquire in this life. How was he so certain he could change her path? That was simply nonsense. The King of Heroes altered nothing, but instead determined the course of events. He was discovering himself to be no mere user of Clairvoyance, but one who saw all that could be, while being capable of selecting what would be. "Should not a king show concern for his queen? I've said it once, I will show you a life of endless bliss. It was not with supposition that I spoke that day; it was with conviction. I have seen all I require. The first child will be without pigmentation, and the second a twin with the bearings of a mage, both the spitting image of their mother. And you, my perfect queen, draped in the purest of white textiles, the finest gold accents, a crown perfectly fitted to your head, and the fur of a unicorn to drape your shoulders. Would any man with the ability not drown the world to witness this vision with his own eyes? If it were not preordained, it would not matter. If I had to tear down the heavens themselves to make it so, I would. Such is the dogmatism of a true king."

[Apollymi]

Artoria, no... Hoshimi Eri had three siblings and of the three only two would claim to fully understand her motivations. The eldest of their group, Hoshimi Rie, who shared her goal, but not her disposition. And Hoshimi Emi, who understood, but was encouraging her older sister to be a bit more selfish of herself. Imagine a saint telling someone else they were too selfless, that whole thing was laughable. So laughable, in fact another smile crossed her face and she simply shook her head. Irrespective of anything else, he was willing to drop subjects that were not fruitful to him in discussion. Good, he couldn't be reasoned with but he'd at least stop speaking from time to time. That would make any future alliance with him, not quite as annoying as it could be.

Or, maybe not. It would seem the King of Heroes was a bit coy with her earlier understanding and looking into Artoria's build. He was certain of a thing, but it was not the normal type of certainty. It was instead it was the certainty of Clairvoyance in whatever way it manifested in those strange eyes of his. Artoria, honestly scoffed in this moment. He spoke of impossibilities, things that were legitimately impossible. And more over, he made several claims about the situation which made her nod her head in simple understand while she stared fire at this man. "That is the annoyance. Clairvoyant and assured. That damned mage..." she stopped speaking and closed her eyes in the moment. But what was she seeing in her own mind? The annoyance in her life that was Merlin. In fact, this very meeting was occurring right now because that sulky, annoying, clairvoyant mage would not reveal the direction she should point her sword. After almost a fortnight without sleep, the aggravation and lack of comfort had gotten so bad, her walk had ended her, here. At a dinner table, with Gilgamesh. She rather suddenly had the desire to draw her sword and end every single clairvoyant individual who had ever stated random facts of her life to her as if dictation. But what would she say? "There is nothing wrong with chasing dreams. Yours however have many impossibilities weaved in... like the fact that I am permanently fifteen years old, barren and I am going to die. These are absolute facts. You never stopped to consider the idea that those are likely one of either of my sisters' children as we all share a face? Nor the idea that you see my face in things because you simply wish to?" she questioned this before adding in the other thing. "There is also the fact that I still am annoyed by you, and I would see no purpose in marrying someone who annoys me." Artoria gave the most absolute version of the truth she could because there was no reason not to, she could understand him. Speak to him, even help him a bit while he grieved, but there was no option in her future where she could marry him... even if she wasn't barren, she was uninterested.

Ah, but somewhere, there was as silver haired woman with cold blue eyes and a hard expression who, indeed shared Artoria's visage. Her little sister's words in those moments as she saw a vision of them clicked into place the answer to the ultimate question. "You really should do something about that bad habit, little sister. Though, I can not complain since I now understand how you are truly. Do not worry, I can think of at least one reason to connect yourself to someone who annoys you, and even to bear his children!~"

[Bloodedge]

It seemed Artoria had her own opinions about foresight, or rather those who wielded it. She spoke of a mage, but whom? Ah... the "great" wizard, Merlin that he'd seen. That one was but a mongrel who saw only the things Gilgamesh himself had already decided. They were not equivalent. Still, precognition had nothing to do with the king's decision. He would have her, and he would do so only when she accepted him. Either that would occur after he saw the missing chunks of time to complete his path forward, or it would occur by sheer force of will. All those excuses she had to offer meant nothing at all in the face of his resolve. His dreams held impossibilities, did they? Good. That only made the eventual achievement even sweeter. "And who am I to care for impossibilities? If ever the world shall tell me no, then the world itself shall be brought to heel. There is no mistaking what I've seen."

Why could he not have been mistaken? It was a simple matter that would be proved with the opening of a Divine Gate overhead. The product of this one was a large gemstone, an emerald greater in size than any other. The gate's own light refracted, and the emerald cast a green hue upon the entire dining hall. In the face of Artoria, however, Gilgamesh considered it... bland. "The Bahia Emerald. In this world, there is a single place one may find a more precious gem of this variety," he said, raising a hand to point across the table. His forefinger aimed at the queen's face while he viewed her, his own pupils dilating with haste. "There. The one gem my treasury does not contain, and there are two. Quality of that nature does not replicate. How then, do two children possess them, while another shares my own eyes that differ even from the gods themselves? Surely then, they are the seed of my loins. Your sisters would not receive such a thing."

Ah yes, it was a fact that he was a point of annoyance to the woman. That, too, would fade with time. She may not have seen a purpose in marrying him now, but there was obviously one to be seen by her eventually. The greatest thing to overcome was the effect of her version of Caliburn, which was strangely not shared in his own variant. Some trickery had been afoot with that one, but it should be simple enough to best. She would be as she should: free of that immature form. "Heed my words, Queen of Knights. You will one day accept me. Even if I must destroy your fate with my own hands, I will find my way to Avalon at the end of the world that has rejected you, force open the gate, and bash you over your precious head with my adoration until you are mine. This, I swear in the name of Gilgamesh."

[Apollymi]

Artoria was in for a whirlwind of confusion. Firstly, there was the King of Heroes making the claim, that he cared not for what was impossible nor possible. He'd apparently made a decision regarding this entire situation and he had every plan to see it through. There was a lack of understanding here, and the divide of it would only grow greater. 'A statement like that is wildly presumptuous,' was the Queen of Knights initial thought. But maybe there was hope for that understanding, an aid was coming by way of an example. He pulled a thing from his treasury. Well that wasn't exactly the truth, he pulled a large gemstone from his treasury. It was rather stunning by Artoria's own understanding of such things. She wasn't one for jewels or over-indulgent excess but even she could acknowledge the beauty of things. He claimed it could have only come from one place before pointing a finger towards Artoria's face. She was something missing from Gilgamesh's treasury. Was he really doing something so outrageous as comparing her eyes to the rarest emerald the world obviously knew and claiming her eyes were better? No. That didn't make sense. He didn't actually mean that, did he? Artoria's widened eyes would seem to stretch beyond what should be physically possible. Her normal queenly visage had fallen to pure shock. Making the claim that his own eyes were just as rare and among those he'd seen, he could have children with whom he pleased but claimed Artoria's sisters wouldn't be the ones he was with and thus was justifying his own infatuation with her.

Strange, Artoria was quite relieved that he would not wish to make children with her sisters. Not that she was interested in having children with him herself. Wait. That was not even a line of thought worth entertaining right? What was she supposed to say to notions like this? It didn't matter right? These were words he spoke of his own surety always, though there was so much actual sincerity in his words, she had begun to wonder if he was simply mad. Oh. It was not that there was madness in Gilgamesh's heart, it was absolute faith in making his own decisions come to fruition. She would accept him, it was not an option. If she died and went to Avalon, he would come along? For what? To beat her over the head with his affections until she accepted him. Gilgamesh, King of Heroes and King of Uruk, claimed on his own life that he would destroy her fate and have her accept his adoration?! WHO USED OATHS FOR THIS PURPOSE!? Artoria could not fathom a single reason to make such sentences, to declare them to the world. Her eyes showed abject confusion. Her mind simply could not process the notion. What was she supposed to say to something like that? How was she supposed to respond. She could not even pretend to understand how such words made her feel. "I..." she paused. "I do not have words." That was all the Queen of Knights could muster. So, much confusion was in her mind, how was she supposed to take his words? She could not even properly admonish him in a moment like this because she had no certainty of what she would or would not be agreeing to. How did she deal with this? She needed a weapon, she needed to kill something... whatever she was feeling now, she did not know what to do with it, so it should be aggression. But even that did not feel right. More confusion ensued for the blonde haired lass.

Meanwhile her silver haired counterpart sat on a different throne in a different place watching this take place. "Those are some very strong words King of Heroes. I am personally impressed and I will accept on her behalf. With two of three sisters on your side, her bad opinions are overruled, by her own notions," she said with a small smile on her face. Wedding arrangements in olden times fell on older family members did they not? She was simply following custom to make sure her sister received the happiness she clearly deserved. If Gilgamesh was willing to do so much for her younger sister, and completely admonish the idea of anyone else... well, Morgana Le Fay could do only an equal amount of effort. A declaration was made, and she now understood the work she had to do. "I am at least a bit to blame here. I thought she had only suppressed all of her unnecessary emotions. I did not realize she did not have them in the first place... Even if Artoria Pendragon understood your offer, internally she is incapable of reciprocating. That simply will not do. You do not deserve an empty shell for a wife and queen. A complete person will be necessary for the sake of the world." And with that, the woman known to most as Morgan, stood. Taking steps into a pool of water, from the edge of her throne, doing so would invert her world as she reached the middle all the while she became more blonde, gained armor and a happier visage. Yes, a little lake fairy was making an appearance somewhere in the world. To begin some strange form of work.

[Bloodedge]

Wordlessness. He couldn't be very surprised at all. That was one of the most powerful declarations he'd given, at least making it to the top three. What could even be said by the lovelorn when faced with an unwavering desire? Nothing seemed about right. As the confusion continued shifting around upon Artoria's face, Gilgamesh reached for his chalice once more. The Bahia Emerald receded into the gate from whence it came. Having that thing out next to Artoria sickened him, for something held in such high regard should never be such a poor knockoff of a greater thing. Later, if he had a mind to, he would probably destroy that gemstone for being so pretentious. For now, he simply wanted it out of sight while he finished his wine.

... Wine which hesitated halfway to his mouth, strangely enough. Gilgamesh took pause, tearing his gaze from the queen for just a moment. He felt he was being observed, just for a second. It was a general feeling he had rather often, but the sensation was just slightly different this time. One could assume Ishtar had just taken on a different method, or perhaps the unsettling gazes of the Man-Scorpions still plagued him somehow. Whatever the case, he ignored it as always. That chalice finished its trip toward the king's mouth as he set his gaze upon the woman again. She really had no words; nothing was said or attempted afterwards. "Artoria Pendragon. The only acceptable words are 'I do.' However, it seems now is not the time for you to speak that phrase. One day, you will. I reject all other possibilities with full vigor."

[Apollymi]

How was Artoria meant to deal with this? She'd been raised to be a good king, she knew when people were being sincere and when their attitudes needed rebuff. Upon their first meeting, she'd taken true and personal offense to his audacity. Now though... she wasn't sure how to feel. Between her own shock and confusion a hand could be found gently rubbing her face eventually pinching the bridge of her nose. In this moment it became obvious the Queen of Knights was like a toddler fighting against her own fatigue. Even as the example gem disappeared from her sight something would become apparently clear, Artoria's mind still wasn't at ease, and she definitely hadn't slept but that single hour in the last fortnight. She was truly at a loss, and did not know what to do. Rebuffing honesty was not on her list of things to do. At the same time, she had no intention of being part of this man life further.

It was almost as if she'd walked into some sort of logical fallacy. Where there was no real way possible for her to deny him, while it was still very possible to want to. Artoria, in spite of herself was still a haughty teenager, she did not appreciate being dictated to by anyone. At the same time, she respected the opinions of others proven noble enough to deserve it. She couldn't reconcile this in her own mind but it seemed Gilgamesh had the answer. She was supposed to say 'I do' to all of that? Absolutely not. Right? She wanted to ask a question but ended up wondering how she'd ended up here in the first place. "All I wanted was to know where I should point my blade. And here I am being absolutely and utterly confused by everything happening... I just," she gave pause. At some point she would probably kill Merlin for this slight against her. He could have just told her the information she sought, but no... he sent her here. To this. For what? Confusion? Annoyance? Lamb chops and wine? Why was it necessary for her to have this conversation instead of one which would have led her directly to the point she wanted to be at. A point where she could murder the thing that caused her discomfort and finally be able to sleep. It would be an honorable murder but murder nonetheless. Her eyes closed again and she finally pulled her hand away from her own face. Was she fatigued? Was that what this actually felt like? Well she wouldn't have been able to fall asleep in her own bed even if she wanted to, no... she would declare war on the goddess and her rape cult and remove it from her sights. And then... and only then could she relax enough to sleep.

[Bloodedge]

Where Artoria's blade should be pointed was a question indeed. That woman struggled through her own lack of energy, sense of self and all form of encroaching exhaustion, while Gilgamesh simply watched. Just as this was no time for her to accept his advances, it was not her place to attack the gods. He would carry whatever thirst for peace and vengeance she had with him, on his own crusade against the divine ones. This was the way it had to be, and in a way, it was just as much his primary objective to end the gods' reign alone. "If you wish to know where your blade should point, I shall inform you. Stay your blade from the gods, for it will bring only ruin to your door. The Age of Gods will reach its end by my hand. Do not resign yourself to an early grave trifling with matters you need not be involved in."

Gilgamesh shared these words as a matter of fact from his own viewpoint. In doing so, he let his chalice be returned to its resting place, along with all the food selections he'd taken out for himself. Half of the table remained full then, and Gilgamesh stood while crossing his arms. His gaze was set upon her once more, those slits in his eyes narrowing. "Do not be foolish enough to think attacking the gods is wise for the likes of you. Take rest, prepare yourself for the war of the next Holy Grail, and bring yourself fully into my Chaldea. Let these goals be your only focus, and refrain from sophomoric decisions. Those will never serve you well."

[Apollymi]

In the space of time where Artoria spoke the words of her real intentions this day, Gilgamesh had words to speak. Those words were sensible for a king, she could respect them even, but she couldn't agree. She could never agree with words spoken like that to her. A sigh escaped her in a moment like this and her eyes remained closed for just a few seconds more. Artoria earlier in this conversation, realized she was no longer outraged on her own behalf, now that anger was there for others specifically and so long as that was the case, her decision felt solid. More than that... she could clearly see it. The steps taken forward for herself and humanity, starting with the end of the thing that called herself a goddess and ending with happiness. There could be no movement forward while a monster like that stood at the top of anything. Every instinct she had said so...

"No." Artoria's choice in word was a singular one. One which held the whole of creation and all of its destruction. A single word spoken in a simple rejection of the idea that he had something to say about how she chose to handle herself. He could make many claims as a man who had lived longer, but there was a single thing she would not accept. That this was not her problem. It was, it was more so than most things. "I can consider myself foolish in a few instances. I can understand that I do not know everything nor can I make the best decisions for everyone all the time, but there is one thing I am absolutely certain of..." she said none too carefully. "This problem of that divine one and her cult is at least partly mine to deal with, such a thing was decided the moment fourteen men ended up in my bedroom while I was trying to sleep, with the sole purpose of ruining my life in a way I never foresaw. Done with such fervor they did not even have the decency to defend themselves from what was obviously their eminent murder," she said carefully. In defense of herself, Artoria had killed a great many men, but never had she murdered such a defenseless group of idiots as those she slayed in her bedroom. "I am a monarch, I expect people to try and kill me. I expect assassination attempts and as we have been discussing, I expect to die, and I could eventually get over the attack perpetrated against my person, even if I cannot rest..." she said those eyes of hers opening fully and blazing with pure indignation. "But I could not call myself a Knight nor could I live with myself as a queen if I let that crime against humanity trample over the hopes and dreams of every woman too defenseless to protect themselves from her ire. If I did not stand between those to weak to defend themselves and her I would be unworthy. If something like this was attempted to me, I can not imagine the one it worked against. It is a violation of humanity and womanhood perpetrated by a woman against women. I will not stand for it. On my honor she will be struck down!" Oh that was aggressive wasn't it? But she meant it, Artoria couldn't tolerate an existence that violated one of the first and oldest social contracts, the one of silent safety from one woman to another. That thing that called herself a goddess was a crime against women, humanity and everything that should be sacred in the world. Her death was required. Artoria didn't even understand the true appeal of sex, but she still knew that situation would ruin it, and she understood it was hypocrisy for a love goddess to do anything which would violate the love between two individuals, no. None of this, she had the conviction and the power to do something about it and she would, and there was no way she'd let the King of Heroes stand before her in such a way. She hadn't slept in a fortnight and she wasn't about to sleep when knowing the target her blade was meant to pierce. There was nothing but conviction in those green eyes of hers, darkness replaced by fire.

[Bloodedge]

The humans below were so very foolish. Did she really think she had what it took to take on the gods? Gilgamesh enjoyed the idea of a human with such incredible dreams, but perhaps hers were becoming too big. It could not be tolerated. She could surely not be cursed the same way as Enkidu, who was still connected to the divines when life was taken from him, but she walked the same path he did. What would become of the day she earned the gods' ire, and another Divine Construct was created to counter her and facilitate that which brought about this very reaction when first attempted? That could not be allowed. This was precisely why Gilgamesh alone would tear down Celestia. They could not harm him directly, but he could put an end to them by their own design. Indeed, the simple fact that he was divine born the way of mortals would be their undoing... yet he would not see this woman involved. "I did not offer discussion, you insubordinate woman!" he snapped. "What power do you think you have to assault the gods?! If you even managed to scratch a divine being, it would be only suffering you earned as a result. What will you do then? Look over your shoulder for what remains of your life, waiting for the day those same gods decide to throw their all at you? You will be cursed, pinned by their newest creation and filled with their filth while Ishtar's cult fills you just the same. A mad goddess would see you defiled, dismembered, and defiled again!"

Stupid, stupid, stupid! The Queen of Knight's resolve was admirable, but oh so misplaced. This was a decision that she could not be allowed to see through; only he could see it to fruition. "My hand will bring down the gods. If you wish to contribute, you may take on the cultists who plague the land, you and your little knights. Do away with these foolish notions of god-slaying, and do what humans are capable of! Deicide is a thing best left to one of divine origin."

[Apollymi]

Of all the reactions Artoria expected, she did not expect, to firstly be called insubordinate nor secondly for him to sound as if he cared about her well-being. It was another strange moment for the young woman as she was literally the person holding the hopes and dreams of the world and humanity in her hands. "I am not insubordinate, I was not asking permission." Artoria snapped back at Gilgamesh. The absolute audacity of this man was not something Artoria was prepared for, still she did not necessary dislike his honesty. It was a strange thing to realize in a moment like this. "By your own logic I am human, and I need no other reason to do something than wanting to..." she shot back. Death, dismemberment, defilement... because some psychotic woman could not get her own life together was no reason to hide, it was more reason to confront directly. Artoria did not brag nor did she state the full nature of her abilities. She faced her challenges head on without full knowledge of the outcome only leaning herself closer and closer to a victory she could see, except in one case. Gilgamesh himself was a person she did not see victory against. She'd won against him in the Holy Grail War but that was not a battle of wills, it was a job like any other she would take. "Waiting will change nothing, I could just as easily find myself in that situation at any point so I will not wait for it to disturb me. If you have not seen enough to understand why I do not care the creed of being I fight... then you were not paying enough attention," she said. Artoria's heart was that of a dragon. She was herself the heart of the red dragon, whether she fully understood what that meant for her or not, she had the attitude of a creature that predated petty gods and their irrelevant features. None of that would be said, but it was seething behind those eyes of hers.

His suggestion remained. He would take care of the gods and she and her knights should take care of the cultists. His telling her that was almost laughable, considering how she approached this problem at the start, "I was named Queen of Knights by you King of Heroes, did you honestly think I was not going to act on that aspect anyway? She is sending beings from this tier of the world, born soaked in mana down to people who are not yet ready to face that challenge. I will not let such filth bypass me. I told you, I needed to know where I was pointing my blade, I do not need your permission to defend the defenseless," she stopped herself from speaking for a moment, when did she get so angry again? Why was she still so disturbed? Was it a matter of being underestimated? Was it annoying that he seemed to care so much about her well-being? Was it some ridiculous level of threat that no woman should face just wandering the world on the orders of an errant female? Yes. All of those things... still there was nothing more annoying to her, than the idea that people born here were stronger at base than those born below, and then chose to serve a goddess who paid them so little attention that she advised rape over any other useful activity in life. That was sickening. A love goddess advising rape, and displeasure was so very contradictory that Artoria herself thought it evil.

[Bloodedge]

Permission? Of course she did not ask for permission! It was by Gilgamesh's royal decree that she would be rejected nonetheless. The foolhardiness of mankind would not be allowed to impact his goals. Artoria's insistence upon facing the goddess Ishtar herself was pointless at best; she'd need only to let him do as he would. "Hmph! It is you who proves inattentive, if you believe for a moment that you have what it takes to slay the divine," he said. Now then, what was this about him granting her a title? In truth, he'd done no such thing. Queen of Knights was something applied to her existence; he merely spoke of it during a time long before it would truly be granted. "It was not I who gave you that title. If you insist on acting within that role, however, then play your part, Knight. Take your king's order, and stay. Your. Blade."

Surely she didn't believe her victory in the previous Holy Grail War was qualification enough to face gods. If she did, the woman under the guise of King Arthur was more of a fool than he thought. "You cannot even understand why those mongrels were sent from this plane of existence to yours, can you? Tell me, how do you intend to face a god? You do not have the capacity to fell them, but is it within you to break the laws of this world? I alone am the linchpin, the Wedge of Heaven. It is by my existence that they are even capable of manifesting here, in my own garden. You who lives in the gutters of this world would hardly even be a thought, if not for my decision to take you as my bride! Run along. Lament your own weakness if you wish, but do not think yourself capable of feats so far from human ability."

[Apollymi]

Gilgamesh had the complete wrong idea here and now. He seemed to not understand, she didn't think she had the power to kill a divine being because she was full of herself. She didn't believe she would be capable of it, just because she was angry. She didn't even assume she'd be capable of it, just because of her dragon core. At the end of everything it was something very simple... she could kill anything. There was nothing in either world she thought she couldn't slay. "Our fight did not put the idea in my head that I could slay a divine. It did nothing but give me the general idea that I could kill you, even though I could not find the steps towards that outcome innately," she said that aloud and knew it to be the truth. She did not think herself weak nor exceedingly strong, she thought herself a killer who killed. Strangely, that was not even a threat, it was a statement of fact. When she'd promised her younger sister a Holy Grail she had not known she could beat Gilgamesh, but every exchange led her closer to the eventuality, as such she could follow it through. "I did not possess such a title until you spoke it into existence. For the record, I am a knight as a benefit to everyone else," she said that very carefully, so very quietly. Those eyes of hers closed because holding onto a desire to murder someone wouldn't do her any good. She was chivalrous enough to not start a fight at a dinner table with the host, but Gilgamesh was testing the upper limits of her patience.

Still he spoke. The King of Heroes did nothing but entice her to violence. He made claims with no knowledge of her thought process, his words alone claimed a foolhardiness the Queen of Knights was not. Never would she consider a strategy that did not fit the bonds of her current existence. And now she would be given a full breadth of understanding of Gilgamesh's existence. The gods walked here, he was the linchpin it was his fault because he showed interest in her, nothing else. Something about his words annoyed her deeply, it bristled against her very soul. He really spoke as if he was the only one targeted by this errant goddess. The world was not that small, and a woman who would do the sorts of things this one was purported to, did not have enough limits to stop at one target. How would she defend herself? What could she say? Well... nothing. Actually, that wasn't entirely true, Artoria Pendragon was one thing and one thing only, and that was a fighter. She wouldn't lament her weakness she'd take it at face value. If he didn't want to believe in her, that was fine, she believed in herself and the rest of humanity. If she was truly unprepared she'd find out today, but she would not simply be taking the word of someone else about it. "Outside." Just that one word and the opening of a glare that caused Merlin to claim she was staring daggers at him on a semi-regular basis, turned up to twenty-five. It was a strange moment, but Artoria was not going to tolerate this annoyance. She was too tired to place arguments and hedge complaints. Why did Merlin send her here? She'd have to ask him, if she remembered past this burning anger and her mental anguish.

[Bloodedge]

Further foolishness was the thought that she could kill him, the king of all who inhabited this world. In all history he knew, only one could make such a claim... and even that would have been a mutual slaying for the good of none. No matter. Unless Ishtar herself appeared, there was no conceivable way for Artoria to challenge her directly. She could take up the task of felling the goddess' servants time and time again, bringing further ire to herself with each increasing threat. Before the situation became too dire, Gilgamesh would complete the task of shutting those wretched gods out from this world. He cared not what she thought of this ultimatum. He would not have another point of interest taken by that whore goddess─ never again. She could detest him if she wished, but it would all be for the best. Before taking up the role of bridegroom, he would deliver himself the role of a father who sheltered the babe, keeping danger from the homestead.

Artoria would not be having that, it seemed. Outside, she said. What? She dared oppose him so brazenly? A twitch came to the king's brow, and to his lip. Only once had he seen such insubordination. Whatever the case, chivalry was not a concept shared between the two of them. If it was combat she wanted, he would respond with only the opening of his Divine Gates. From a dozen or so gates came the Chains of Heaven. She wanted to play the rambunctious child, so he would play the strict parent by having those chains chase her down, aiming to ensnare the limbs. "Do not make two mistakes this day, you insufferable woman."

[Apollymi]

There was something strange in the mind of Artoria Pendragon. She did not detest Gilgamesh in a literal sense, she found his methods and ways annoying but outside of the way he acted in moments that his ego was so blaringly obvious, she could not dislike the sort of person he was. What she could do however was oppose him at every turn when he said something she disliked. Perhaps he did not understand this truly but what was the point of people if no one made sure you stayed honest? That was how Artoria saw other people in relationship to herself, she simply was incapable of laying down and taking orders from anyone, least of all him. So, he was content to keep her in his life? She was content to see if he truly understood what it meant to be in the company of someone who was prone to anger, longed for fights, and who could switch from chivalrous knight to murderous killer in less time than it took to blink.

The twitch of his brow and lip did not go unnoticed by the blonde haired lass. The fact that he did not do as she asked made her smile, why was she smiling? Well, in all honesty, Chivalry made her issue the order to go outside. She wished to save him the expense of repairing the place he lived. But if he was a person would not spare his own things, she would oblige him. That sword at her side was drawn with urgency, as the sheath of it shattered, into almost golden dust. Her eyes, didn't leave those open gates as she pushed back against her feet sliding as chains erupted from those portals. She would not be captured so easily, especially not in a room this large. She'd been too recently fighting within a small space to be hindered by the change in venue. She'd dodge chains with an accuracy that might make one think she knew they were coming. And what would happen, the light of her sword grew brighter almost instantly, but not by hopes and dreams, no... Artoria's own mana moved through the blade, sending a slash of bone shattering concussive wind directly at the point as she lifted it, which she followed up in fresh pursuit still waiting to dodge. There was enough pressure in the blast to knock a hole in stone and blast the king backward through it depending on his actions.

[Bloodedge]

Chains were launched, and chains were evaded. It should be considered audacious for one to evade Enkidu, but he'd come to expect as much from this woman. If anyone could challenge him, it was Enkidu... but if anyone stood a chance of rivaling Enkidu, it was the woman once known as Hoshimi Eri, his most powerful memory from a previous life. "Hmph. Hardly the dance that should follow our first night of dining. I will allow it," he said, seeming unusually nonchalant. To Gilgamesh, this was no fight, no battle, no epic clash. It was not the pest control he considered felling criminals and the like, nor was it the heroic escapade of going against the gods and their creations. This meeting was mere confirmation of Artoria's inability, and her need to leave the matter of gods in capable hands lest she lead herself to unnecessary ruin.

His arms remained crossed even as Artoria's evasion was followed by offensive measures. Her mana, did it serve her well in the lower world? That would not be the case here. Unmoving was the king as that burst of wind encroached. Unfazed was he when it struck not his flesh, but the barrier of a golden armor suit manifested onto his body in a moment. He'd once used this armor against Enkidu, but never had he donned it with its breastplate attached. From shoulder to toe, King Gilgamesh had submerged himself in that golden suit that took neither scratch nor dent from that stone-crushing blow. Gilgamesh tilted his head while watching the Queen of Knights move about. With that tilt came another gate in the space his head previously occupied, and from that came a golden lance unleashed with the same ferocity as all his tools. Said lance was led toward the woman's left thigh in two paces, while the Chains of Heaven followed up behind her with their same original goal in mind.

[Apollymi]

According to Gilgamesh this wasn't the dance he wished for after a meal. She hadn't asked for the meal and there was no other form of dance she could prefer. Strangely enough she also wasn't in the mood to talk, as always her thoughts were rather busy and she did not have the space for extra commentary. How would she react? What could she do to him, while respecting her chivalry and not tarnishing her own image? These were always the questions she asked herself and these little dalliances in her mind, required precious seconds. Still her eyes were dancing around about as much as her body was, a dozen chains, a lance fast speed. 'No openings. Dodge and block.' Her sword spun in her hand as she danced out of the coming chains all the while protecting herself from the damage of piercing at a distance such as this. 'Move forward.' Her next step would give her the freedom to swing her sword upward, Excalibur was brimming with the energy of her body, no Invisible Air. There would be no stopping her as she pumped mana into Excalibur at the same frequency that she'd previously shattered Caliburn, but she wasn't simply being reckless, she was looking for openings. Besides, it wasn't like she could shatter Excalibur, it wouldn't let her use enough power for that to be a problem. 'More stuff, archer makes more sense.' The energy blast would test the armor, it had more force than her original one. Artoria's anger decreased with every swing of her sword and every movement of her body. So many chains for her to dodge, how was she supposed to focus on attacking? She slowed herself down to dodging at the last possible seconds to avoid capture by chains each step looking for the appropriate opening. Her fury was fading but her determination burned just as brightly as it had when she made her declaration. To be perfectly honest, she enjoyed fighting most when she thought she wouldn't win.

[Bloodedge]

It seemed this would not be a battle filled with debate, as their previous bout had been. That was fine; this was a match meant to deliver a lesson. There was a clear difference between Artoria and the late Enkidu yet, as Gilgamesh saw now. Whereas the latter had countermeasures to his every treasure, the former was running about to avoid capture by the very chains Enkidu once utilized. Once more, Gilgamesh saw no purpose in applying seriousness. Perhaps one day, he thought, she would be capable of the very thing he thought to stop her from now. Alas, hopes and dreams only took humanity so far. He doubted hers would make any difference this day.

One treasure aside from Enkidu had been utilized, and it had been deflected just as quickly. Once more, this was expected. She was quick to retaliate as well, even while keeping away from his relentless chains. Alas, the Chains of Heaven could be considered Gilgamesh's most valuable treasure for many reasons. He could always trust Enkidu to be by his side; now was no exception. The chains were moving still while the ziggurat flooded with the king's mana. All of those energies seemed to emit directly from that golden armor, as his arm stretched out. An armor-clad hand halted the arc of Excalibur, even as the energy flowing from the blade tore asunder the dining hall around them. He seemed to be toying around at present, though there was great purpose in his casual approach to this scuffle. "You have no hope of overcoming me, Knight-Queen. Tell me, can you even fathom why?"

[Apollymi]

Artoria's movements carried her forward. She dodged chains, and deflected the weapon tossed at her. And still this smug man was not even exerting himself. Ah, she'd seen this before, but from a very different perspective. She couldn't calm down, she couldn't focus, she couldn't even decide if she wanted to murder or just fight. Things were complicated in the mind of the Queen of Camelot.

Ah, but now her sword's power was not reaching her target while chains were still aiming to capture her. 'Avoid capture, retreat.' Her mind made the decision and her body followed through, enhanced by mana, she followed through the motion with haste, but hopped backward at the end, being careful of those chains. Her eyes shifting about for chains, to keep her steps just a bit ahead of the fray. And what was this now? Why couldn't she win. "I have no idea what you are talking about," she did not wish to waste too many words. She didn't want to talk, she was calm but holding the line between chivalry and assassination was more difficult than she would like. A moment of combat was not something which required her to do anything but what she was doing. She didn't need a lesson from a man whose very visage did nothing but incite her fury. She couldn't even explain why she was so upset, but it was a lot easier to fight than it was to question, she had enough questions she demanded answers. Her mind couldn't rest. 'Kill something. Do something.' Why couldn't she think? Her resolve was unquestionable so why? Why was he so smug?

[Bloodedge]

Still, she was on the move. This could have been the simplest of matters if that blasted woman ceased her endless effort to avoid capture, but... frankly, he would not have chosen someone who stood idly by and let themselves fall to manipulation of any sort. Artoria's rebuttal made it clear, mincing words was far from priority. Why was her focus so different this time, when previously she fought to kill? Time would reveal all, he supposed. Whatever the case, she would be granted reprieve of Enkidu. Each chain segment came to a screeching halt before vanishing. With that, Gilgamesh began to levitate, floating out into the open air through a very fresh hole in the wall. He was just outside the Citadel of Uruk in seconds, still facing and staring down Artoria as if awaiting her approach. The king would land in an open field only a few moments into this bout of levitation, and assuming Artoria made it out without issue, he would continue speaking. "The Holy Sword Excalibur, tool of King Arthur. It is a marvelous tool indeed, perfectly suited to this world's greatest swordswoman and the Queen of Knights. What then, would be so fitting of the King of Heroes?" The offering of this inquiry was joined by no form of assault. His smugness oozed out in full force, his arms crossed again, and he simply... waited.

[Apollymi]

Artoria denied the use of Enkidu and eventually they were withdrawn by Gilgamesh himself. The Queen of Knights seemed a bit skeptical of that point, those eyes of hers still in constant motion even though the threat seemed to have disappeared. 'Strange.' Her mind called her paranoid but she truly was at this point. Artoria had too much to focus on to give any one line in her mind one hundred percent of her effort. In the Holy Grail War, Gilgamesh had been labeled an enemy, someone who stood where he should not. It was easy to kill when she was burning with fury. Easy to be furious when not knowing of the layers to his being. It was simply put, easier to face a man with the intention of him dying when you actually wanted them dead. It didn't violate her Chivalry to kill someone who was the enemy in fair combat. But now, even in fair combat, trying to mete death did not feel right. She was also burning with fury so she could not focus. And her mind couldn't quiet because she was tired, doggedly so. It'd been a fortnight since the Queen of Knights knew a true rest. It'd been just as long since she actually ate a full meal. It was impossible for her not to show exhaustion in the face of overwhelming power.

Beyond that, Excalibur would not agree with a full release. To get similar power she had to exert herself and the more she exerted herself, the more fatigue she felt. This was a losing battle, and this time there weren't steps forward she could see. Perhaps, she needed to wait it out. She definitely would not surrender. She'd rather die here and now, then allow herself to bow out of a fight she started. He asked a question and presented it in such a way that there was no denying his lack of aggress. She couldn't continue forward as he waited. She hopped out of that open hole in the wall, denying the physics of the situation and practically using the air as footfall by virtue of mana exertion, only to land on bent knees sword at the ready. What tool fit the King of Heroes, if Excalibur was the ultimate weapon for her? "Is that really a question. Everything about you seems unfair in some way... I assume it is some sort of cheat." That wasn't a malicious statement though Artoria questioned it internally.

[Bloodedge]

Artoria did follow, much to anyone's expectation during a battle she'd initiated herself. On her way to the field, she showed an interesting ability to function on this level of the world. The ambient mana was so nonexistent where she lived down below, it was almost surprising to see such a showing of mana control. Alas, he should have expected as much. Gilgamesh chose well, as always. Moving on, Artoria spoke her mind regarding the weapon most suited to him. Skeptical as she looked overall, she still managed at least that. Apparently, everything about him appeared unfair in general. Oh? What an astute observation when comparing him to the likes of... well, everything else in existence. Was it a cheat, though? If one were to ask Gilgamesh himself, he would call it a birthright that was oddly both earned and gifted. In actuality, that was about the most legitimate explanation of his Mystic Code there was. "Hmph. What is a king, if not one with power supreme enough to be deemed unfair by the commoners? Everything in this world originates from me, Queen of Knights. When I spoke those words, I spoke them truly..."

One phrase from the King of Heroes would, one day, turn the armies and the hordes running back whence they came. One phrase would shape the world around him, turning the tides against the moon and turning the impossible into the mundane by his whim. That day the Holy Grail deemed him Archer was incorrect, but it was no accident. Just as the case had been in a life long since forgotten, he was the strongest Archer, with the strongest arrows. One phrase would prove that fact, and that phrase was... "Gate of Babylon." That simple phrase seemed to bring the very stars to Earth, as thousands of Divine Gates shimmered across the field they inhabited. There was no certain directionality, but instead gates appearing wherever they fit in space. Each gate brandished a weapon, and no single weapon was the same. From swords to axes, to spears, to staves, all manner of things were unveiled, each a weapon in its greatest original form. This was not even the whole of King Gilgamesh's collection. No, for days upon days, he could launch treasures of this quantity without seeing the same individual piece twice. As weapons that were all Artifacts of some caliber, each had their unique properties. Ah, but Gilgamesh could never be bothered to go around learning what each tool did. He merely collected them initially, never thinking to use them until he was forced to do so by Enkidu. Even then, he became rather fond of merely throwing them as if they were stones... or more accurately, firing them as an entire army would fire guns. "Now, my perfect queen, taste of my riches and despair!" With that utterance, his array of tools was unleashed upon Artoria bit by bit. At times one, at times several in unison, rarely if ever being loosed from the same direction. In this light, Gilgamesh was akin to a child at play... a child with too many toys to choose from, and enough hands to pick up as many as he liked.

[Apollymi]

Having landed in front of the man several things became obvious. One of which was that Gilgamesh did not necessarily consider his powers to be cheating, instead he thought of them as his birthright. He argued the point that a king having abilities that commoners thought of as cheating or abnormal made them kings, and after a second of consideration Artoria nodded her own understand. She stood far above most in her own right, and was deemed invincible by others. Her attitude and ability to predict the best possible moves for herself were touted as unusually keen. "In fairness, I can not argue against that point," yes, that was fair, and she could be gracious about it, even in the middle of combat. Yes, she was calmer now, even though her mind still wasn't quite working enough. But what else was there?

The sensation of mana, the opening of thousands of gates. Ah, the Gate of Babylon he called it. Launching treasures from his personal stores like bullets. All the things he'd amassed and all of the things both given and collected. Artoria looked at those gates and the light of them reflected in her own eyes for just a second. "The archer classing makes a bit more sense now, and where was this, when I was ready to kill you?" Artoria's question came with annoyance, something about the fact that this was missing from their earlier battle seriously bothered her, and she couldn't rightly understand why. No. Never mind, she understood it completely. A half-victory did not fit her idea. If she is trying to kill someone and they are not doing everything within their power to survive, then it feels like murder. And while she was by her own nature a murderer, she had adopted Chivalry and put forth a great effort in keeping it. In this new life time, aside from pure fury, murder no longer tasted sweet. In a moment when someone was completely honest and they were not just part of her empire, Artoria did not know how to feel. Comrades, family, sworn protected, and enemies... four classifications of people who received from her, the four different emotions she possessed. But what did she give this man, who fell into none of those spaces? The fury innate to her soul, but without a true desire to kill?

Her thoughts were playing freely behind her eyes, and those same eyes, were watching as these gates rained down various things upon her. Unlike others who would despair at such a thing, the tiniest upturn of Artoria's lips occurred. Occasionally, things were knocked off course by swings of Excalibur. Other times would see her move to avoid damage to her body. Some things would graze her person as she moved about, but the armor she wore, reinforced by her mana would also deflect things. There was a time, when Artoria would have been able to do this for hours, capitalizing upon a single instance of victory. Still, she couldn't see one yet. 'Dodge, dance, turn. Eyes open, no stopping. Wait for the right step...' Artoria was fully on the defensive but didn't seem to hate the predicament at all. It was easier to defend than it was to attack in this particular case, she should probably be thinking of the victory, but when was the last time she felt she couldn't win? For a person who had started a fight in anger, she was enjoying it in earnest, the the determination to find a way through obvious. Despair? Why? This was fun!

[Bloodedge]

Fun? Gilgamesh was having no such thing this time around. Their last battle was something he could call fun, but the entertainment value of this one had yet to be discovered. He was merely tossing his tools, and she was merely dodging. There was no glory in this. There was no victory Gilgamesh wasn't already certain of, no threat of death, no true gain from flinging his treasures at the Queen of Knights. Well... at least there was banter, for a time. Artoria questioned the lack of presence of his possessions, at least in regards to their previous fight. Simply put, he hadn't any use of them in the grand scheme of things. The battle itself was never meant to happen, but he approached it with what he had once the time came. "H'oh? Does it insult your pride as a warrior, to know that I brought not even a morsel of my strength? Take no offense. It was this," he said, summoning the ornate key to his treasury into his hand. If she had the freedom to behold it while his arsenal rained down on her, it would be brandished for quite some time. "This Bab-ilu was a thing I left behind on my journey. If I were never to make it back, this thing was to collect dust, unusable to anyone else. Had I known a battle would follow that journey, perhaps I would have brought it along for a bit more entertainment. Though, it was for the best that I did not have it then. How else would I have enjoyed our match so thoroughly?"

[Apollymi]

Artoria was given some strange words. She was asked if it hurt her pride as a warrior to know he wasn't exerting himself truly in their previous battle. As she dodged watching those eyes of hers shifting around the battlefield. "Yes and no. It was job..." she gave a pause. Chivalry aside, when she acted on behalf of others it was not a matter of personal pride. "But... I do not enjoy fighting or attacking the weak. There is no honor to be found in a half-victory. I would rather suffer a defeat than celebrate something so very hollow," she expressed those opinions between movements and her eyes. If that had not been a victory for the sake of her sister she might have immediately gone into combat against Gilgamesh upon laying eyes on him the second time. Ah, was that a key of some sort? Surely there was an explanation incoming. Perhaps, through an explanation would be worthwhile, a single moment of eye contact was enough thereafter.

He was really just throwing weapons around. That seemed inefficient. Artoria could use any weapon she put her hands on... she could see clearly though that he'd rather just burst at her defenses in this way. Staying on the move wouldn't allow her to charge an attack with Excalibur and she would need to as a show of force. 'Enjoying that fight was the reason I let him live, right?' Ah, right... he'd started confusing her on that battlefield with that strange reaction, when she stood in defiance of him. Hoshimi Emi seemed to think she liked him in some way, but she couldn't. She respected him as a king and warrior, but that didn't mean she liked him. What did that word even mean? Artoria was a violent woman by her own nature, she was calmer now than she had been before, but could she win? Well, she couldn't see a victory just yet, but... 'Forward, thrust past weapon, both hands and...' she followed through with her own advance, there was an attack to be launched as shining light exploded outward. "EX-" she started from the bottom since the sword needed to go upward into him to accomplish the goal she had in mind. In this space she was no danger to anyone so she didn't bother with the normal windup, she doubted it would do the job regardless, but at least this way, she could continue her assault. "CALIBUR!" a shining arc of light from the middle range going up from the ground that reached for the heavens. She wasn't looking down upon an opponent she was reaching up for one. Even with the restrictions of her sword, and those imposed on her body... she simply couldn't let him stand before her looking so smug all the time.

[Bloodedge]

"Take what you can," he insisted without hesitation. "Of all who inhabit this world, only two have ever matched me in any capacity. Take solace in the fact that you measured up to even a portion of my power." It seemed Gilgamesh actually believed these words, and indeed, he did. None but Enkidu could equal him, and now none but Artoria Pendragon could injure him. That would not be happening today, though; not on his watch. He would allow her to show her resolve, but not to overcome the wall he presented himself as between her and the gods.

The chant of 'ex' was tantamount to a massive, glowing sign telling of the coming attack. She was done playing cat and mouse, was she? Well, he'd rather be playing house instead. This was an interesting little premarital argument they were having. Ah, but it was a mere dream that they could kiss and make up when it was all over. If anything, he imagined she would be of neither mood nor ability for such things. Now, he would show Artoria the defense of the gods in the form of their own gates. Massive and ornate, a great dome of a structure appeared in Excalibur's path. Her glowing arc was something he knew capable of damaging, perhaps even bypassing his golden armor, but this was the immovable object spoken of in the irresistible force paradox. From behind that great wall stronger than even the wall of Uruk, Gilgamesh spoke. "This is what one must overcome to even think of facing the gods. Shall I show you a sample of what must be tolerated?" he questioned. Behind the shield, one could already see a red line climbing into the sky and splitting into a web of cuneiform lettering which gradually shrank inward. Gilgamesh was calling upon the ultimate tool from the dawn of creation, its resting power seeping through all of Finis Chaldea like an ominous mist, and the shield had yet to even be banished to show what the tool was. . .

[Apollymi]

Take what she could, he said. There were only two who had the capabilities of matching him in any form, he claimed? That was that worth taking solace in? Yes and no. Artoria did not like shallow victories, but she could respect that she could win at some point. Of course, that whole thing did not stop anything, she could not win here and now or rather she was not certain. Victory which should be certain was uncertain and that was exciting. She was taking what she could get, but not in the way he offered it. That was the part of her which was uniquely Artoria. "I would be able to do that... if you did not always seem so smug," she admitted. Artoria had no idea why but the smugness of Gilgamesh made her want to argue with and harm the King of Heroes.

Ah, but her attack didn't make it to its intended target. That was a bit of an annoyance, well that wasn't true. It was a little exciting, about as exciting as it was that he kept talking to her after she'd nearly killed him before. That was probably not a good line of thought. Whatever the case, that barrier needed piercing and she could probably do it with the right amount of force, but that might not work out. Well, she had to try, but now there was something more pressing. A large ominous glow. Excalibur was raised up into the air, and in contrast to the red and ominous glow there was instead shining light gravitating towards the Queen of Knights. Still her eyes hadn't moved, from the man before her. Given his previous showing of ability she was preparing herself for something catastrophic, gathering mana, pouring it out from within her body the light of nostalgia, in a fight for her honor.

[Bloodedge]

Ah, he could feel it. Just on the other side of that shield, there was an opposing power to his ultimate force. How could she fare? He would soon find out. The Shield of the Gods returned to his treasury, and there it was. In Gilgamesh's right hand was the Sword of Rupture, its three segments rotating in opposition of one another, winds whipping out from the cycle and distorting space-time around Gilgamesh as the Sword of Rupture and the Sword of Promised Victory screamed at one another across the open field. "I will tell you of the beginning. I speak of genesis. Heaven and Earth split, nothingness congratulated creation, and my sword cleaved the world!"

What Gilgamesh utilized could be described as the wrath of nature itself. Frankly, he always wondered how the hopes and dreams of mankind would fare against it. Sadly, he had to show restraint. It would not do well to erase the world and his bride before their wedding night came. So then, what would he do? Well, he could at least offer fair warning, if Ea's power alone somehow did not manage as much. "Enuma..." The start of a chant would be the only additional warning Artoria received. In speaking that phrase, however, the cylinders of Ea spun faster. Compressed and intertwining stratifications of wind became a visual reddish torrent of energy that erased even the sands around him. His sword was lifted, soon to be brought down. . .

[Apollymi]

Artoria held tight to the light that was victory, as she always did. Once raised in the air, there was usually nothing that could stand in her way. This was so much the case that eventually restraint was placed upon her blade, she could not keep an exact count at any moment but she knew in most cases full power was nigh impossible to reach. Still, she could use it. Regardless of the power of the 'sword' across from her, she could rather suddenly see it, a path shining towards victory. A road of light to travel along even the darkest and most unknown space, she could go. She'd previously thought her own instincts could not reach so far, but now she was absolutely certain she could do it. Even while looking at those spinning cylinders.

The King of Heroes stood above her, bearing down with the weight of creation on her. And once more, if only for a second that little smirk appeared at the edges of her lips. That was no sword, surely? It in no way resembled a proper weapon, there was no blade. But that power was still obvious and she should have had reason to fear it. She did not though, and perhaps that would be her folly this day. No sharpness was lost to her eyes, and no purpose lost to the swing of her sword. Was he truly warning her of the coming attack? Well, she could clearly see it. "EX-" the start of the light show would grow just a bit brighter as Artoria held on to that final moment. She'd need to be careful, because it would require precise timing to launch herself after fending off something so ridiculous as this. It would be worth it though... she could do it. See that one clear moment which would place the light of victory squarely within her own hands. But that would be in the aftermath of his next attack.

[Bloodedge]

Artoria bore the strangest light in her eye. How interesting; she'd also become the second to witness the Sword of Rupture without hopelessness being what she experienced. What was going through her mind, he wondered. He saw no future in which she overcame him, but he supposed she would always be so resilient. The Queen of Knights could be nothing less, after all. "ELISH!" The downward swing of his sword sent forth the full force of Ea that had been built up thus far. Winds that tore apart reality were unleashed as a beam from the sword's tip. His other treasures had been successfully returned to the vault, leaving only this. How would she fare mentally with this being what she was up against? She hadn't so much as dented the ultimate defense, yet she still strived for more. So then, he'd give her a sample of the ultimate offense instead. He never blinked, he never let his eyes waver. The power of Excalibur would truly be put to the test, and the same would be said of Artoria's resolve.

[Apollymi]

The world was being torn asunder. Even so, Artoria had let go of nothing, no... she was content enough to face down death, destruction or whatever else and search for victory. That golden glowing sword of hers swung down in brilliant light. "CALIBUR!!" The battle cry which won a thousand battles was uttered once more. And what would it accomplish? Holding off rampant destruction with mana as the fuel. It felt like years, but even so... what was Artoria if not defensively capable? A light that was most practically human ambition fended off the power that once split the world and that strange light remained, while Artoria used her own body to absorb the shock. Well, such a statement would make it sound like she did it on purpose, but it was a side-effect of fending off an attack so powerful. All she had to do after the smoke cleared was move forward but...

Not today. In her own mind Artoria clearly saw the use of Avalon and the follow up attack after she was proven still capable of continuing. In that moment, some three steps ahead, she could have reached her target. She could have found the victory she was trying to accomplish but just because she could see the victory, didn't mean her body was capable of seizing it. Right. She hadn't slept in weeks, her body couldn't quickly recover from the recoil of several moments. She barely had the energy to power her armor, it shattered as her body took wounds to balance out the pressure. Artoria had been touted as invincible, how long had it been since she'd been so hurt in battle? Probably not since her battle against the Usurper. There wasn't enough magic left for Avalon to passively heal her and she could barely open her mouth to activate it. Of course this would happen, she'd never hear the end of this from the smug King of Heroes. That shining light in her eyes that held so much certainty, faded as her consciousness went along with it. There were several steps she could have taken before now, that would have contributed to her victory, but as far as she was concerned she'd made the point she'd intended. If she were to fight gods, odds against her with only the sword in her hand and the armor on her body, she'd do it to her last breath and that little smirk on her face, her eyes forward and her honor intact. One last thing, one small uttered word as she realized her current limitations were her own fault. "Fuck." Whoops, she could practically hear the Queen of Saints telling her not to curse. She could see nothing else. The light was fading from her eyes as she lost consciousness sword planted in the ground her hands on the hilt. She would not fall. Even as her wounds bled it seemed she was still upright waiting for the next. So far she reached, and so close she came. Maybe next time.

[Bloodedge]

Suddenly, there was a clash between two things that should never have met. Enuma Elish against Enuma Elish had once made glass of a desert, but Enuma Elish against the light of Excalibur seemed to erase the very atmosphere for just a moment. Had he been a bit more serious, and Artoria been without the restrictions applied to her weapon, perhaps all of Mesopotamia and beyond would have suffered. Instead though, only Artoria suffered heavily from the collision. She deserved a great deal of credit for even surviving, though he expected that much. Surprising however, was the fact that she was still holding onto that sword when the struggle came to an end... as well as the vulgarity passing her lips the moment she lost consciousness. When would she fall? It seemed she wouldn't. Bleeding, beaten and armorless, an unconscious Artoria Pendragon still upheld the visage of a knight ready for the last stand that would never come. How noble, yet how foolish. How unsightly, yet how absolutely stunning. Ea vanished, and Gilgamesh stepped forward to reach for the queen. His hand first went out to her face simply to touch its cheek, and soon enough, he was lifting her into his arms and walking to the Citadel of Uruk once more.

Sir Tristan had not been completely idle all this time. He'd listened to the commotion, and he'd observed the ensuing battle. He was there to meet King Gilgamesh while Artoria was being carried off. His bow was at the ready, though it seemed Gilgamesh expected this interjection. "Arrogant king, release my queen immediately. This battle is over," he insisted. Gilgamesh, however, continued moving forward. "H'oh? And what will you do? Loose your paltry little arrows and risk killing the queen you serve before dying yourself? I will forgive your empty threat just once, but hear this. This queen is mine, whether she has come to realize this or not. You are in her charge, are you not? Stand aside as I tend to this sleepless girl," Gilgamesh demanded. By the look in his eye alone, Tristan... could not stand against him. There was something in there, something beyond the pomposity of an old king... something even beyond the fury with which he spoke.

Gilgamesh would not halt once on his way inside. He did hesitate just briefly upon entering the throne room though, choosing to address... "Siduri." That word was the only one he spoke, meaning to have her follow along to his personal chambers. Within was all the lavishness expected of the hedonist king, including but not limited to a bed large enough to accept a full harem, velvet and lions fur adorning it. That bed was where he placed Artoria, gently upon her back. Just as gently, he aimed to wrest the sword from her hands. His free hand took the time to sweep hair from her glorious face, which once done, freed the king to press his lips upon her forehead as a doting parent would do upon tucking the child in for the night. With that out of the way, he spoke his order to Siduri at last. "The queen has been taken by the filth of combat. Have the murk stripped from her body, and the sands washed from this magnificent flesh. Three days, you have. In three days, this beautiful woman shall wake in Uruk's finest dress, to consume only the freshest meat and bread, and the sweetest wine made by your own hand. In three days, she shall want for nothing but the next bowl or cup to fill her hand. Care for her as you once did for me, at journey's end."

[Apollymi]

Artoria's last stand was one she would have regretted but also one she would have enjoyed. If this had still been that game she streamed, she would have restarted and demanded a rematch. That was how she was, if she wanted to do something, she did it. And if she lost she took her defeat and then went back and fixed said mistake. No victories were easy and no kills were messy, this was her nature. What else was her nature? Well, her men and those under her caring for her to great extremes. One such was Tristan who was accompanying her during her sleeplessness. His encounter with Gilgamesh would have been one she stopped if she was conscious enough. Actually, if she hadn't just gotten mad about it, she probably would have relieved him of his duty to her for a while given she was about to fight. Oh well, Tristan had been worried about the tyrant king, but it seemed he could at least understand what Artoria had meant when she'd vouched for him.

Whatever the case, Siduri was soon in Gilgamesh's room as he laid Artoria to bed. The man did say he wished to marry her, and to Siduri's approximation he was now taking the right steps to make that happen. Still as he tried to wrest the sword from her grip she seemed to hang on to it a bit tighter, Artoria did not sleep without a weapon, this was something Siduri was made privy to, "My king you are going to have to put a dagger into her hand, if you want the Queen of Knights to release her hold on the Holy Sword. She will not sleep without a weapon..." she advised. She knew this because of her vacation, she'd spent quite a bit of time in the company of the Queen of Knights and the Queen of Saints, she knew them pretty well now. As for the things he wanted her to do, she could take care of those things without question. "I will do as you ask, of course. And if I have three whole days. I might actually get through the whole process without her pulling a knife on me..." she mused ever so lightly. Siduri would have no problem taking care of Queen Artoria, and she found the King's doting tendencies with the woman to be a good show of his true intentions. That bed large as it was, more than anything Artoria would have ever slept on herself. She could barely differentiate between her own room and those of her Knights.

[Bloodedge]

Apparently, his queen would not sleep without her weaponry at the ready. What sort of nonsense was that? For Siduri to know this, it could not have been as recent a development as the attempted assault on her person. No, this was something discovered some time ago. "How foolish," he mused. "Such a knight, never truly a queen. When does one rest, if one can only do so with cold steel pressed to their bosom?" A curiosity indeed. Whatever the case, she would not be resigned to grasping the full weight of the Holy Sword Excalibur. Gilgamesh's treasury produced a ceremonial golden dagger with a lapis lazuli handle. Deft fingers crept between Artoria's own digits and the hilt of Excalibur, forcing room enough for the dagger to be slipped underneath. "Very well. On this day, the first gift will be given," he said.

Glowing eyes overlooked the Queen of Knights while Siduri spoke further. Three days were slated to pass, and in that time, the queen would be cared for. "Artoria Pendragon, Queen of Knights, Goddess of the Holy Lance and my future Queen of Alaya. Siduri, you shall never be harmed by this woman, least of all while she lies immobile within sleep's sweet embrace." With this speech came another meeting of his hand and Artoria's cheek. "Ironic, isn't it? This woman's first night in this bed, and it is not even for the sake of consummation. When will the day come, I wonder. . ."

[Apollymi]

Apparently Gilgamesh found it foolish that the lass only slept with a weapon in her hand. Siduri could only smile about the information and she watched dutifully as a dagger was produced and the weight of it given to the Queen of Knights instead of her Holy Sword. A chuckle escaped the veiled woman as she watched the King of Uruk finally wrest a the sword from the Queen of Knights. "I do not believe this is a knightly quality, the Queen of Saints also has this habit," Siduri mentioned. When questioned both mentioned it being a habit of their family. Siduri decided the family must be strange, but since both of the young women were nice, she figured it had something to do with whatever the family profession entailed. Regardless, Artoria's hand clutched at a lapis lazuli handle on an ornate straight bladed dagger, and her body seemed to relax a bit more in the moment. She truly couldn't sleep without protection. "Excellent choice, my king. She does enjoy her weapons~" the lass said.

Now Artoria was all tucked in and weapon in hand, according to Gilgamesh Artoria would come to have a great many titles and under none of them would Siduri have to worry about the lass drawing a weapon against her. This was a comforting thought, she'd grown a bit fond of the blonde haired lass while she wasn't working. "That is comforting to know..." she said of not being harmed by the Queen of Knights. Of course, beyond this there were words shared, as Gilgamesh continued doting upon the young woman in what would eventually be their bed. "It is just a little ironic, but the Queen of Knights is a different sort of individual, normal is unexpected." Siduri commented. Whenever Gilgamesh left she'd look after the lass. Cleaning her up and putting her in much more comfortable clothes, brushing out her hair and redoing it for the sake of its cleanliness. All the while, she slept peacefully with her hand clamped around that dagger. And in three days time, Siduri would have a cup and vase of wine at Artoria's bedside, for the woman to enjoy when she finally woke.

[Bloodedge]

Ah, so something was wrong with the lot of them. A curse, he'd lay upon the fate of a family for producing this situation. "A knightly quality it remains. Knights and dogs are much the same. To the world I ask, who looked upon this breathtaking thing and chose to make her submit to a routine fit only to those who heel." A few moments of thought, and Gilgamesh rose. He kept Excalibur in hand, leaving the lightweight dagger in its place. Excalibur would be held for three days until she was ready to reclaim it. "This one has not lived a single day of her life as a woman. Of course, it is my responsibility to break the wheel. Another journey is ahead of me."

With that said, Gilgamesh would take his leave of the bedroom. Siduri could be trusted with the tasks given, and he would not gaze upon his future queen's bare form with his own eyes quite yet. That was something to savor in the future, however far ahead it lay. Gilgamesh returned to the throne room to handle additional matters of state, carrying Excalibur all the while. It truly was a marvelous weapon; he found himself studying it numerous times over the course of three days. Ah... three days was actually quite long, wasn't it? On his long journey, Gilgamesh lost track of the days with great ease. Now though, only three days was a mountain of tablets and a sea of visitors, ages spent between each moment taken to view the slumbering queen. That is, until the third day began. Before sunrise, Gilgamesh would appear once more with... strangely, a tablecloth in hand. Excalibur and that cloth were to be taken with him as he sat at Artoria's bedside, awaiting the moment she woke.

[Apollymi]

Siduri had no real response for the King of Uruk. He wished to know why someone like Artoria had been looked upon and determined a knight. It seemed a bit cruel as a fate for a girl so pretty to be turned into something so harsh. But if anyone could change the outright strangeness of the personality of the Queen of Knights, she was sure Gilgamesh could do it. In what Siduri had personally witness of Artoria, she passed for a knightly prince instead of a queen in most cases. "I can agree she does not spend her life in the way women do. It will at least, be interesting to see..." she commented. And soon after the King of Uruk left to go about his work and Siduri went about hers. At sunrise three days hence she left a pitcher of wine, she knew the lass to like and a filled goblet at her bedside as per the King's request of her initially and then the King himself joined once more.

Siduri excused herself and Artoria was left to wake as naturally as she always would. Shortly before sunrise the blonde lass rose her grip on that dagger shifting as emerald eyes opened for the first time in days. Strangely enough the Queen of Knights felt refreshed and quite different. And what would be the first thing she did upon waking? Take a peek at the weapon in her hand. An ornate dagger with a lapis lazuli handle she sat up in bed inspecting it. She tossed it around in her hands, inspecting its weight. It would make a pretty good throwing knife. Yes, this was her first thought. But with a weapon in hand she actually looked around her surroundings and found herself in the middle of the largest bed she'd ever inhabited. Who needed a bed this big?! Wait. She remembered, she'd recently fought the King of Heroes in a sleeplessness induced rage and lost. So... she was in his bed sleeping? How long was she out for? Well, she didn't feel any differently. Lie. There was a gentle breeze across the back of her shoulders, as such she found herself inspecting her own form that knife being twirled around her fingers. 'My back is out...' she thought while flexing her shoulders. Artoria opened her mouth and found her voice unable to be forced out. She needed a drink, surely she could find some at her beside. Still, her eyes hadn't even fallen yet upon Gilgamesh so imagine her surprise to find him sitting at her bedside. Her eyes widened gently but then narrowed immediately. Didn't he have something better to be doing? Oh well... she reached for the goblet at her bedside. And sipped from the cup seeming not to be fearful at all about drinking from said cup. Sips later her parched throat was soothed and she had only praises to sing. "Siduri, you star-blessed wine-maker~" she murmured seemingly pleased. "Where is Tristan and how long have I been asleep?" she asked two questions the first of which was unrelated to her own well-being.

[Bloodedge]

Just in time, the queen roused herself from slumber. In waking, she was graced by the sun's light breaking through the space between curtains. From this, Gilgamesh witnessed grace in its purest form, sipping from a cup of wine fit for the gods. He stared unabashedly, never peeling his eyes away for a moment. In the whole of this world and the next, there was no sight more worth witnessing. Shameful though, was the fact that she first inspected the weaponry she apparently could not sleep without. Alas, he would have to make a goal of delivering comfort. No queen should feel required to be armed at all times. Now then, there was a question regarding her loyal knight, as well as one regarding her time spent sleeping. With Excalibur in one hand and a tablecloth draped over the opposite arm, Gilgamesh moved closer to that emerald-eyed spectacle. "Your dog is at work. I permitted his stay, as he would not leave your side until sufficiently convinced. For three nights and two days, you have slept in this bed. Now, you will rest further. Drink, eat, enjoy the greatest luxuries of this world. The filth has been taken from your body, but you shall enjoy glorious Uruk's baths in waking when you are done here," he rambled. With all that said and done, he summoned forth a bed table to the space above Artoria's lap. That table was where he chose to drape the cloth he'd been holding onto. With that, he would explain. "The Table Cloth of the North Wind. Three days since you have eaten, it has been. Sustain yourself now, my magnificent queen. Merely chant your desire, and this rag will produce it at the highest possible quality."

[Apollymi]

Alright, sips of wine down and now Artoria found herself listening to the words Gilgamesh said. Her mind unclouded by her own rage, heard the tone of his words, he would be considered at least three times as reasonable if he didn't refer to others as animals. Ah, but there was the knowledge that Tristan was still here, allowed to stay and put to work in the meantime. "Thank you for looking after Tristan, but I do not..." there was a pause. She meant to argue several points not the least of which was that she did not wish to continue to sit here and be idle. The idea of that was far too anxiety causing for the Queen of Knights. By this time every day, she was up and training, moving about eating quickly and going on to her regular duties. The idea that she'd already been asleep for two days and three nights meant she'd only let her body be still far too long. Too bad the number of days she'd been sleep was also the number of days she'd been without food. And in her particular case, her body would betray her long before she'd be able to argue. Post mana exhaustion her stomach growled and the hunger of a dragon overtook her small body. She mumbled to her stomach feeling betrayed by its utterances, her face gaining the most slight of pinkened hues. "Treacherous beast..." oh how strangely true that was of her own body.

It was a traitor to her in more ways than one. Managing to let her take the collision of that attack but not moving afterward, hyper-vigilience leading to sleep depravity and anxiety. Her hunger setting in upon her after she finally got a reasonable amount of rest, and then the final straw, not growing into anything resembling a feminine form after twenty years of her original life, but giving her younger sister the best such a body had to offer. Yes. Her body was treacherous indeed, so much so that she barely registered herself as a girl at all. Dressed in what was likely the lightest and most scanty clothes she could ever be dressed in, it was not even a point in her mind that anyone should find her attractive. The King of Heroes stood a table appeared before her upon which he spread a most opulent cloth. He made the claim that it would produce any food she desired at the highest quality. He called it a rag. "I think your appreciation of the value of items is quite skewed given what you say this does," she followed up immediately. But she sat up a bit straighter and thought about what she wanted to eat. The Queen of Knights was unsurprisingly famished but if she could have whatever she wanted there were a few things she wished to eat. "I want a medium rare steak, fried eggs, potatoes, rice, grilled vegetables, lamb chops, pickled vegetables, more rice... and rolls," she said these words and imagine her surprise when they appeared before her eyes. The creation of a well-balanced meal meant her brother could not be upset with her choices and the amount of protein and vegetables could make up for her lack of sustenance.

[Bloodedge]

She did not...? A clause remained incomplete due to Artoria suffering the betrayal of her own body. It was probably just some nonsense about how she had no desire to stay in this room. She'd managed to keep him from having her restrained here against her will some days ago, but there was no budging on Gilgamesh's side of this matter. Luckily, argument was avoided this time. From the sound of things, she would soon be dining. First though, she commented on his reference to the cloth as a rag. "H'oh? It is but a thing, of which I have many. Spare me your notions of value. What I consider truly valuable is of a very different quality to that scrap."

And so, the "order" was placed. She spoke numerous food items into existence via the cloth, very few of them being properly linked to one another. Well... luxuries tended to do such a thing to those who did not enjoy them regularly. Something was to be said about that sheer quantity of starch soon to be entering her mouth, but Gilgamesh was far too busy. What was he so occupied with? Well, he was continuing to watch. That thing of value he spoke of was sitting right in front of him, an impossible treasure that required utmost effort of him to collect. His efforts would be well-spent, though. One day, King Gilgamesh would know the ultimate success, possess a treasure too magnificent to adorn one's mantle or fill one's coffers. Long before that, however... "Fuhaha!" He laughed, thinking again how ridiculous this spread of food was. Was it simply a matter of Artoria being starved both times she dined in front of him? No, that wasn't the case at all, was it? "You shy from nothing, no? This life will suit you well... one day."

[Apollymi]

There was such a difference between them, but it wasn't that different was it? Of the things she had tangible evidence of him valuing she would say he had a better idea of value than his wording implied. That friend of his was important to him, more valuable than most things he'd come across. And here and now, he made the claim that something he had many of, simply didn't hit his value meter. 'Bravado aside he is not merely indulgent in this case, I cannot fault him...' she thought. Aloud she aimed for the general politeness she had when speaking to most people. "I do not find fault with the logic." Artoria found it endearing, maybe.

Ah, but her spread of food appeared before her, bringing a sparkle to her eyes. Artoria herself was not too picky about her food choices in most cases. But she had quite the appetite. She could easily down what most would consider a gluttonous amount of food, but never have her body reflect the indulgence. She normally subsisted just on what she needed, but now that her stomach was empty it needed filling. Such logic had her looking at the spread before her and picking up a bowl of rice and pair of chopsticks, egg, and vegetables only to begin eating them with the same ferocity she'd shown herself to have the day prior. What would this spread of food cause in the King of Heroes, apparently laughter. She shied away from nothing? "I need to eat, if the food is good there is no reason to avoid consumption," Artoria mentioned. The Queen of Knights had impeccable table manners but just the same she was demolishing enough food for an entire family by herself. "Besides to shy would require a form of shame I do not naturally possess," she said carefully. "I do not know this lifestyle you speak of, but I feel like I should decline, respectfully..." she mentioned. In a matter of moments, the eggs were gone, so was the first bowl of rice and serving of vegetables. She'd put down that bowl and pulled towards herself a perfectly cooked medium rare steak and began to eat that instead. She seemed to have a great affinity for meat of this quality enjoying each and every bite along with the potatoes she'd so recently wished for. A gentle pause and sips of wine occurred as well...

[Bloodedge]

Of course she found no fault. One could never care about things that were common, seen and utilized daily. Only the exceptional could be truly valued. Monetization and usefulness aside, nothing could stand above that which there was no comparison for. Artoria herself was a shining beacon of example for this notion, despite her obvious belief to the contrary. Regardless, he was content to watch the woman consume ridiculous quantities of food right in front of him. How she managed to shovel so much into her mouth so quickly was a mystery. Somehow, it was an endearing thing to watch. Such grace should have been impossible to maintain while consuming as the wild beasts would, yet she managed flawlessly. How absolutely adorable, he thought.

Artoria came with sound reasoning. While indulging so brazenly, she spoke of food being a thing to consume by default, no differently than Gilgamesh himself would speak of utilizing a mass of treasures. Even so, she felt it worthwhile to decline whatever lifestyle he spoke of? That was so very... her. Oh well. She could decline all she liked, but that would not stop him from providing exactly that life. As a king would always be a king, a queen would always be a queen. He would show her the life one with her title was meant to lead, even if he had to force it into the core of her being directly. "It is no surprise that you would decline. No matter. One day, I will show you enough of what a gem such as yourself deserves. Then, and only then, you will know and understand that the life you lead presently is truly humdrum one."

[Apollymi]

Artoria continued to eat, as if unhindered by the idea of her consumption. That steak and the accompanying potatoes were finished within moments as she shifted her bowls around in front of her. It would seem the King of Heroes was content enough to watch her eat, which she found exceedingly strange. "You would really sit and watch me eat without eating yourself? Do you know how strange that is?" she asked of the man. It was not that she was inclined more or less than normal to take meals in his presence, the Queen of Knights was simply not the type to enjoy being watched unnecessarily. Still her body would not allow her to stop satisfying the gnawing hunger she felt. After finishing two more courses, she was back to vegetables, lamb chops and another bowl of rice. She'd continue on her course, devouring food in a way most would have called gluttonous, but she had no desire to hold off on her own need to eat. The bites were delicious and as far as breakfast was concerned this had to be one of the best ones she'd ever consumed.

While she took bites, apparently the King of Heroes was unsurprised by her lack of acceptance of his proposed offer. He claimed she would eventually understand the way he saw her, and accept the treatment he offered. She could not see that. There was nothing in her life she'd call average or even humdrum. She did the things she liked, and enjoyed her day to day existence. She wasn't an idle individual, she needed to move, to kill, to exercise... as it were. "Sedentary indulgence, dulls both blade and senses... it is only natural to reject that which would have a negative impact..." she said calmly between what had been numerous bites. Of course, she did understand at least a little fun, when her siblings roped her into it as an activity, Artoria managed to know fun and accept it in a true sort of way. Soon after her entire meal was finished and she found herself desiring just a bit more, since she could have what she wished, she'd take her favorites for her post meal cleansing. "Strawberry shortcake, fruit salad and butterscotch pudding..." she said as several desserts appeared in front of her. Her eyes sparkled with untold glee. Knowing she was not causing anyone distress with her food choices, she very easily made strange food based demands. She'd have these while occasionally shifting her gaze to the man at her side. "I am surprised you managed to pry it from my hand, not that I dislike this dagger at all... Have you been holding Excalibur while I slept?" she asked finding it to be a strange thing for it not to have been left in her hands. Of course she also liked the dagger she now had in her lap. Artoria found herself wondering what it was that King Gilgamesh fully intended while she had no real interest in his person. Surely he didn't see her as some sort of tamable girl, she was not that at all.

[Bloodedge]

Indeed, Gilgamesh fully intended to watch the woman while she ate. It was something he found more than worthwhile to behold, so what could he do but... well, behold as he saw fit? "Is it so unorthodox? Nonsense. When the stars above shine, does man not gaze upon them? If one were to not admire your radiance, the rivers would run dry, and famine would consume the land. What I do now, I do because mankind is too foolish or unworthy to do the very same. I will appraise that which commands appraisal. You may let your brilliance shine, knowing I will always be there to accept what others cannot."

True enough, Gilgamesh would watch and watch, until time itself came to an end. His decision had been made, and he would stick to it firmly. The same could be said of his philosophy regarding indulgence, which Artoria herself opposed for reasons he could hardly fathom. Once more, they simply could not agree. "You fool. It is not indulgence that dulls the blade and senses, but ignorance. Overindulgence can be a fatal flaw, yes; none has learned that lesson more than myself. However, refusal to indulge is no less disastrous. Enjoy the fruits of life, lest they be lost upon you forever," he stated. At the very least, this woman took no issue with the consumption of fine delicacies... if her choices could be called such. When asked about his possession of Excalibur during her sleep, he brandished the blade and inspected it briefly. "It was not without difficulty that I wrested this from you, but a queen shall not sleep with the weight of a world on her chest. A ceremonial blade, however... I suppose I can allow."

[Apollymi]

Artoria started on dessert at an admittedly slower pace than that of real food. It was a strange moment to note but apparently even the Queen of Knights, knew that properly savoring sweets was a life necessity. Doing such made her miss her brother's cooking even more so than well-cooked meats and balanced dishes could. It was still true she wasn't very picky, even so... she did have leanings of a specific way or another. It was simply that most times she bothered little with anything other than whatever was cooked because she would not be doing the cooking. One could not offer true criticism while not contributing, she believed this thoroughly. The words of Gilgamesh made her eyes flicker in his direction ever so often. The words he spoke made it seem like he was comparing the sight of her devouring food first thing in the morning, similar to the wonder of gazing at the stars at night. Those two things, could not be objectively compared of this she was certain. Why would he bother saying such nonsense to her at all, he did not think she believed him, did he? Artoria could not help but wonder what he gained from saying such things to her, but somehow found her cake tasting just a bit sweeter than she thought it had to be a few seconds before. "You open your mouth occasionally and flowers fall out. I am sure I understand the words in their entirety but do not understand at all why you speak them to me..." she said as she finished the cake and moved on to a bowl of fruit. And saving the best for last that delicious looking bowl of pudding would be the best end of a meal yet.

Ah, but what was this? The King of Heroes, Gilgamesh decided to clarify himself to her. Claiming that it was negative to overindulge but also negative to abstain in totality. Of all things she expected in life she did not ever think such a man would sit at her bedside while she ate what was probably the most ridiculous breakfast any one should eat, while dictating to her the necessity of moderation. "I must say I am surprised. Of all the people I have encountered you are among the last I would have thought to sing to me of moderation, King of Heroes," she said thoughtfully. "I do not dislike this, even if it is my natural inclination to disagree..." she mentioned as she finished off a bowl of fruit. And finally all that was in front of her was a bowl of butterscotch pudding. When was the last time she had pudding? Good pudding?! Her eyes were sparkling as she reached for it and the spoon. All the while she heard the words spoken by the King of Heroes, which denoted that it had taken quite a bit of effort to take Excalibur from her in the first place. He claimed that he wouldn't allow the Queen to sleep with the weight of the world on her chest and Artoria found his mention of this strange. "It is not as if I normally share my bed with Excalibur. Even I would find that difficult..." she said with a small smile coming to her face. This pudding was to die for in the most absolute sense of the word. If this, some meat and rice were the only things she could eat, she'd never be dissatisfied. "Sleeping with a weapon even just a small one is comforting. I always have..." she said and she knew it to be the truth of every individual in her family, even her brother though she doubted he'd admit to such a thing. "And in that case it is not about protecting the world or bearing its burdens. It is about protecting myself." Self-reliance, protectiveness, and the slightest showing of insecurity were always dictated by such a behavior. But it was not as if Artoria feared anything or even many things. Artoria was simply practical in nature and thought like an assassin, she expected to be attacked when she was considered most vulnerable, this included when she was asleep, unguarded or indisposed.

[Bloodedge]

The comprehension of Artoria did not extend to his words about her; that much had been obvious for quite some time. He would not be stopped by something so trivial. She would be made to understand in time, even if said understanding came from her being overwhelmed by all he had to offer. "The truth of it all is simple, no? I speak to you as the poet's muse speaks to him. The greater the muse, the greater the poetry he writes. You claim my words are like flowers, but it is inspiration alone that produces them. You, Queen of Knights, are the culprit here."

He spoke of moderation, yes. Gilgamesh lived the truest form of hedonistic life for decades, but in more recent years, mental age had overtaken him. Perhaps the fault lay with Enkidu's death, or even with the difficulty of his long journey. Whatever there was to blame, he understood more now how important a bit of restraint was. Artoria's surprise was something worth laughing at, as such. "It is preposterous, is it not? It was once King Gilgamesh who took all leisure unto himself, beyond even the claiming of this world's treasures. He took even the bride from her bridegroom, until the admonishment of the Chains of Heaven." Gilgamesh's explanation came almost in a way that implied weakness in recent development. Alas, he was still holding onto the Holy Sword while discussing Artoria's... very queer sleeping habit. He'd make a point of showing her that such protection was unnecessary as well, even going on to address it right away. "What purpose do your knights and servants serve if you have no faith in their ability to keep threats at bay? Tell me, do you collect warriors as I collect possessions? It should not be a queen's place to carry her own last line of defense even when at rest."

[Apollymi]

A simple truth according to Gilgamesh, she was his muse, so his flowery speech directed at her was her fault. Artoria ate a bowl of pudding with all the childlike glee one could have while consuming dessert and found his words strange. So much so, that her brows furrowed gently. He saw her in such a light? That was preposterous! She'd just sat down before him eating enough food to set a family aside for a feast. She literally was more comfortable armored and on a battlefield than doing anything else. And she took comfort in weapons and skill more so than any normal 'girl' type activity. To put it simply... there was no reason in her own mind that anyone should be romantically interested in her, and his insistence upon the fact that he was interested was confusing at best and infuriating at worst. "You may be the strangest man I have ever met," she said before going back to her meal.

Beyond this point, the King of Heroes explained that his once hedonistic lifestyle had been altered by his friend admonishing him. That made sense, one of the main uses of friends was their ability to share hard and unknown truths with others. She could imagine him doing all the things his story claimed he did and given that she still couldn't figure out his fascination with her. "Hm, so you are saying you have grown out of your less charitable personality traits?" she summarized with a small smirk. Eventually, her bowl was empty and she held the spoon within her fingers, having that last bite with a shining light in those eyes of hers. Still the King of Heroes thought to point out the strangeness of her sleeping habit. Did she collect Knights as he collected treasures? No. Did she trust them? Yes. Did that mean she was willing to be vulnerable while she slept? No. "Trust them to carry out tasks and keep us safe from things they know and understand. I do not collect them for the sake of having them. As a group there are none more honorable and trustworthy," she said. "In the case of the everyone and everything else in the world though, such trust cannot be extended. You say it is not a queen's place to carry her own last line of defense, but I find that to be a bit idealistic... the world has always been more complex, and not everyone is chivalrous. I do not always think in such terms but my habits have saved and helped me save others..." she explained of herself. When being trained to assassinate people one becomes innately sure of times in which people display the most vulnerability. When uniting warring kingdoms, you become fully aware that not everyone cares fully for the bodily autonomy of others, given these two facts and knowing she has always had the size and look of someone to be taken advantage of, she simply made it an impossibility. She saw no problem with this, and recent events had proven if she held normal lines of thought she would have been traumatized, well more so than she was in actuality.

[Bloodedge]

It was no secret that Gilgamesh did not fit into the standards set by mankind. Of course, he was far above such measly things as human expectation, in every regard! With that sort of mindset, however, even he did not see the current reason for said strangeness. "Fantastical though I am, the only oddity here, is the likes of you. Queen of Knights, I declare that you are the South to my North. Your ideals shield your eyes from the light you, yourself, emit as freely as the sun. I will become the mirror that reflects that light upon you, and one day, you may be blinded by it as I have been." Yes, the greatest plan was now in play.

Had he grown out of his "less charitable" traits? Any answer was completely subjective, but that was of little importance. Gilgamesh was a king, the King of Heroes and strong-walled Uruk. He could only behave as such, no matter the state of his mind, body and soul. Those who stood above the masses must never put themselves within reach of lesser beings, lest their footing be for naught. In Artoria's case, a very different approach was taken. Her knights were in no way disposable, in no way untrustworthy, yet also not trusted fully without exception. "Hmph," the king murmured. They could not fully disagree on this matter, surprisingly. He did not surround himself with soldiers for protection against the world at large, as there was no one he would be capable of trusting. However, Gilgamesh had more than enough faith in his own capacity to believe none could do him harm, if they even had the audacity to try. That is... until Enkidu fell. Only then, for a time extending even to the present, did he know fear of death. Even then, it was only the gods who wielded the potential. Choosing not to harp on these matters for long, he stood. "Humanity. To have faith in one's brethren while harboring no faith at all in those same brothers... That is beneath me," he surmised. A hand extended to the bedridden woman sporting that dress of fine lapis lazuli, and his gaze remained stagnant cast over her. "Come then, Knight-Queen. Cleanse yourself in the great baths of this citadel, don the robe suited to its future queen, and see the return of your blade."

[Apollymi]

Apparently Artoria was the strange person here. Even though the King of Heroes had quite the description for himself in a moment like this. He claimed that her own ideals blocked her from her light. Artoria looked at him strangely once more. She had no use of her own light, why did he want to show it to her. Moreover why was he flirting with her so much? It was clear enough to her that such words were wasted upon her, she simply did not have it in her at all to reciprocate. "Definitely flowers... I am not light for my own sake, I doubt I would understand it," she was assured of his nature. Words like that definitely made no sense when applied to her. She was almost certain of it, she might think he was joking if he wasn't so absolutely earnest in his showing of himself.

Whatever the case, it seemed that Gilgamesh was not willing to speak on the development of his personal character. What was that? Was he... abashed? No. That wasn't right, this man didn't know embarrassment. Perhaps then she was simply right and he did not want to admit it. That seemed more likely given his standing personality defect. What was more, he claimed that it was human to both trust and distrust the same people and he claimed to be above it. "It is nothing so pessimistic. I give no faith without proof and I do not leave it to rest on its own. I trust those I test, but I am vigilant of potential change. Hopeful and vigilant, it is all anyone can be... that is humanity." Artoria's opinion about people was very different from most, considering how much she worried about personal safety she did not seem to be completely hopeless about the forward momentum of people eventually. But now, she had a new worry. There was a hand extended to her, and Gilgamesh speaking of baths and clothing. She supposed she could use a bath it would further relax her muscles and make sure she was ready for her next battle. But, this extended hand caused her to look for several seconds blinking strangely. She'd offered a hand like this many times to many women, but never had she been on the receiving end of such a hand. Obviously, she didn't need help, she never assumed anyone did, but it was a curtesy that was normally extended by knights. She was the Queen of Knights and no one offered her this kind of hand before. She barely thought of herself as a girl but in this moment she realized how much of one she must have looked. "I have never been the girl in this situation before..." she murmured. But she supposed there was no harm in taking the hand right? There was no extra implication in doing so... and it was not as if she feared for her own safety in Gilgamesh's company. Her smaller hand met his calloused though it was as she took his help to climb out of this abnormally large bed.

[Bloodedge]

Understanding of Artoria's light would fall upon its caster one day, perhaps. For now, Gilgamesh would refrain from throwing additional pebbles at the limestone wall that was her emotional unavailability. He'd done things that had taken much longer than this was expected to be, and for far less payout. For the Queen of Knights, he would wait centuries, even millennia for her understanding of his advances.

This day, there was one additional test of resolve... in a manner of speaking. Gilgamesh's hand was offered, and Artoria was heft hesitant. She didn't seem to be arguing with herself about taking it very much. No, she instead looked at that hand as if it were a foreign object and a strange concept overall. In the meantime, Gilgamesh was left to mull over her assertion about humanity. It sounded pitiful, frankly. To test for worthiness of faith went against the king's understanding of human faith itself. Was it not so blind after all? Oh well. He could not concern himself with the light of hope and all of its workings, as it was something he had no need of. As such, he shrugged off the notion overall. "It is no less foolish a thought," he declared. Now then, what of his offered hand? She took it in the end, stating that she'd never been the "girl" in this situation. Of course she hadn't. Altered genetics aside, the expectancies of chivalry came with a certain applied masculinity. Of course, the memory he held of her in a previous life was not exactly the idea of femininity either... and that was all fine. Taking her hand into his own, Gilgamesh closed the distance between them. Another thought required sharing. No, it was no mere thought; it was a fact determined by Gilgamesh himself. "You are free to adjust. You, never having been as a girl, are to become my woman, after all. One day, I will take your hand when leading you to this very bed."

[Apollymi]

There was some understanding, even if not in full scope. The King of Heroes realized that he was unable to pitch woo towards someone who simply did not understand enough of its application as a concept. In the meantime, Artoria began to understand that Gilgamesh was apparently quite content to see her in a way no one else did, as a woman. That was a strange thought, one she might have willingly abandoned to think of something else.

It seemed that the King of Heroes did not truly understand the expectancies of humanity. How strange, he claimed to lord over humans, holding himself at an exceptionally high standard, but he did not fully grasp what moved humanity forward and upward. She came to the conclusion that he didn't spend enough time in the company of people, and though she could not really talk about that in any great detail, she at least kept a few humanizing influences close enough to keep any of them from losing sight of their monstrous differences. "You have been holding tangible hope in your hands for days and you truly think that? I am beginning to believe I am not as strange as I thought," she said almost rhetorically. She didn't truly expect an answer. Whatever the case, that subject she was willing to drop reared its head again. This time after she finally grasped the hand extended to her. The utterance that she was never on the receiving end of such offers, would have the King of Heroes within her personal space and relaying a message to her of their apparent future.

He was quite close to her when relaying this message, but her own personality did not allow her to feel any thing beyond the movement itself. She found herself staring at the King of Heroes with confusion and curiosity in her eyes. He was speaking of sex... she was certain of this. She understood sex in the broadest sense, but she did not get the appeal. She had not been an active participant in the activity even before, simply because such a thing did not seem necessary. Was this a matter of attraction? Did she think him attractive? Did he think her attractive? Surely, he did given his own explanations of her, but how? That would be something to give her thought. Since she never thought of herself as much of a girl she didn't often consider how she was viewed as such. She knew her sisters to be lovely actual women with womanly thoughts, demeanors and bodies, but her own disposition was never really that. Was he a deviant who decided that after trying everything he had a strange preference? That seemed likely... "I do not imagine how I could adjust to that, and I will refrain from the violence that is my normal method of coping," she said. Still it was strange, if this man could have any woman he wanted, why did he want her? Whatever the case, she could be led to this bath while she pondered her own thoughts and the abstract thought of attraction.

[Bloodedge]

Indeed, he had been holding the physical manifestation of hope for the past few days. Had that changed even one thing? Not at all. There remained a certain emptiness to the thought of hope tempered by an objective understanding. "Hmph," was the only additional thing he could offer. His primary concern was not understanding the pitiful mentality of humans─ not presently at least. No, he was far too invested in the idea of claiming Artoria Pendragon, and further yet Hoshimi Eri. She continued to defy him, and he would continue to allow it all the way to the bitter in... and beyond, if necessary. She wasn't sure how she could adjust to his methods; that was fine. She'd refrain from violence? That was just another adjustment already in place. "Refrain? I will allow your violent outbursts. Your foolishness, your destruction of everything including yourself, your hatred and the lost concept of love─ I shall rest it all upon myself and cherish it thoroughly the day you take my side."

With one additional declaration, Gilgamesh spaced the pair of them again. He led the way through his chamber door, out into the great halls of the ziggurat. Only a few dozen or so paces from his bedroom, was the... well, some would consider it a bathroom, though it was better viewed as a sauna far too ambitious for its own good. It was not a room containing toiletries and the like; that room was across the hall. The room he led Artoria to contained numerous heated pools of varying shapes and sizes, and at different elevations to boot. The irrigation system of Uruk had an entirely separate channel passing through just this room, keeping a continuous stream of fresh water in every bath. Steam rose high from every pool, creating a thick layer just beneath the ceiling. Scents were... all over the place, really, for many baths contained different "moods" so to speak. Whether containing flower petals, oils, or some mixture of the two at their sides, every large pool of hot water boasted a certain uniqueness from all others. It had once been said that one could spend all day perusing the Citadel of Uruk's baths, and be wearing the next day's filth by the time a choice was made.

[Apollymi]

Artoria found it interesting, the things missing from Gilgamesh's understanding of humans and thus his understanding of her. Still he remained close and she remained curious. He claimed she did not have to refrain from her violent tendencies, he would instead accept them. The King of Heroes spent the next moment making a declaration the likes of which Artoria had not heard before. Once again it was earnest but once again she did not truly understand the nature of his concerns. "You say, very strange things to me... I do not think anyone normally agrees with me being so ill-tempered," she replied. Again those words were understandable in language. She knew them, but they did not at all fit her mind's understanding of how people addressed her.

And just as close as they'd been together they were physically separated. For her part in this, Artoria managed to look only a bit confused. When he pulled away like that how was she meant to interpret it. This was not a battle in the way she understood them. They were not presently fighting so it wasn't evasive, but she did not like the space between them, she also did not hate it. Twelve or so paces they took from outside of his massive bedroom into what could only be described as the most massive bath she'd ever seen. Why did one need this? Artoria, Queen of Knights, stared in awe. "This... is," she gave pause, how did one describe the unnecessary extravagance that was this bath. "I do not have words..." the pools of this bath were ones which smelled so very different from one to the next. The Queen of Knights was not a gross person, she liked baths... they did not normally come with this level of choice, but as she was already here and had already done the angry fighting bit, some time alone with her conscious thoughts was not terrible, she supposed. Perhaps she'd easily find something she wouldn't mind smelling like and spend her time there for the duration of her bath. This seemed excessive for one person, but the King of Heroes did indirectly mention only recently growing out of his errant personality phase. Perhaps there was a harem of women somewhere who normally exhausted this space and that ridiculous bed of his. Yes, that likely made sense. Hm, was she about to meet a strange woman with a catty attitude staking her claims to a man, Artoria herself only had mild curiosity about. Maybe that would be a topic of thought for the bath. Whatever the case, the blonde haired young woman began pulling apart the bun her hair was normally kept in freeing it and raking loose curls with her finger tips. She'd be taking a bath regardless she might as well prepare while deciding which smell tickled her fancy.

[Bloodedge]

"I've spoken the words once, Queen of Knights. Only I, Gilgamesh, am capable of truly appreciating all that you are." There was a certain finality to the king's words, as if the phrase he'd spoken was also a command to all others who drew breath. It almost seemed none were allowed to even attempt witnessing Artoria Pendragon in all aspects, as only he could receive those various sides properly. Perhaps he did mean it that way at some level. Regardless, his goals and intentions could hardly be made any clearer as they set foot in the "bathroom" of this ziggurat. Speechless as any who knew nothing of true luxury should have been, Artoria was witnessed during the consumption of a visual spectacle indeed. Of course, Gilgamesh was soaking it all in. What words could one ever apply to his possessions?

Upon releasing the queen's hand, he stood with one hand upon his hip, the other holding firmly to Excalibur. He seemed to have grown quite fond of its weight and balance, yet it was not something he thought to hold in his treasury these past few days. Ah... he should have been leaving as well, returning to his work while Artoria cleansed herself. He didn't; he even couldn't right away. Hair was being loosed by Artoria. That alone was a tantalizing enough sight that Gilgamesh found himself transfixed by it. As such, that grinning face of his was aimed forward, eyes taking in every lift of an arm, every billow of hair as it was left to cascade over her exposed back. He could only think of this as something he would see again, for a different purpose entirely. He could almost see the throes of passion overtaking the pair of them mere moments after this very image, yet at a very different point in time altogether. Time... how fickle a concept, making a king of his magnitude wait for something like that.

[Apollymi]

The King of Heroes continued to claim only he could appreciate the kind of person she was... and Artoria for her part in this conversation, was beginning to believe he saw some great truth in statements like that. He'd seen her spiral in several different forms of her own manic behavior and yet there was always an interesting light in his eyes while looking at her. He was very obviously attracted to her, but she was beginning not to understand how one came to such a conclusion. When her hand was dropped for her own sake she felt strangely, she'd walked hand in hand with women. She understood why it was comforting in some way for them to know that someone would look after them. But she'd never in her life felt so inclined. Right at the moment as one arm tossed golden locks around the other hand so recently released was stared at like it didn't belong to her. She had the thought that she would require a haircut soon, it was taking longer and longer to put it all away in that neat little bun she enjoyed. All the while she did not notice the staring of Gilgamesh, the way he saw her, so unlike the way she saw herself.

Since he was still here, she decided to interrupt his staring to ask a single question. "Where are my clothes?" It was a simple question but one she would need to know the answer to, once she was finished with her proper tub time. Artoria strangely enough made the assumption that Gilgamesh would not be staying in this room while she bathed. Hm, she had no idea why she thought that wasn't his intention though... was it a decency thing? Did he already have an established understanding of boundaries? Was there some kind of middle ground where he was old enough already to understand what would and would not be entertained by one like her? She did not know. She truly had no idea how very interesting someone else found her to look at. In her own mind, she was not worth the extra thought. Even right now, as near to naked as she could be with a hand in her hair as her nose twitched and she began to move around the pools of water. She could not see the light she possessed. No matter, that wasn't a concern of hers, what was... was a particular pool. One that smelled gently of lilies, blackberries and nectar. It was sweet by smell and nostalgic... she'd bathe there.

[Bloodedge]

There were many things Artoria could say here in this bathroom. What she chose to say, was a question. Where were her clothes? There was no inquiry as to when he planned on leaving, nor why he stared so intently. One could chalk this up to progress in the right direction, he thought. Regardless, he could easily assume she spoke of her own clothes, not the fine garbs of Uruk she'd woken in. Where did he put those after picking them up from her bedside? "Those tattered rags? Do not concern yourself with those; I may have even thrown them away," he said, having nearly no memory of what happened to them. Even when claiming he'd thrown her garments away, though, he seemed to be full of pomp. Why? Well... "Fear not. Those remains served the glorious purpose of finding something that fits you perfectly. Let this bath function as your closet."

With a casual click of the fingers, Gilgamesh produced an entire wardrobe... or even, a market's worth of the finest garbs all perfectly tailored to the queen's form. Dresses of lapis lazuli were aplenty, alongside pure whites, satins, silks, all manner of colors and fabrics to grace her skin. One could almost mistake this bathroom of his for a shopping district, as clothes meant specifically for one Artoria Pendragon were all across and throughout the room. Where there was not a pool of water, there was a rack of dresses and the like, with a small amount of walking space between. There was a distinct lack of any undergarments, but... this was an ancient desert. With those garments offered, and not an additional word spoken, Gilgamesh made his way toward the throne room. He would keep Excalibur in hand while handling a bit more work for the day, all while awaiting the completion of Artoria's bath.

[Apollymi]

The words of Gilgamesh about her clothing hit her ears with about the normal amount of pomp his words tended to. This wasn't even a matter of him not getting value this was simply an assumption of his that what he had to offer was better. "You do know I can not stay here indefinitely right? I have my own kingdom to raise, a cold weather kingdom. One does not walk around in desert clothing in Camelot, you would freeze," she said. Truly if he'd gotten rid of her original garments she'd have another stop to make on her way back, to see the great Pharaohs in Egypt and hopefully not interrupt their afternoon for a more appropriate set of clothing. Of course, with Gilgamesh's arrogance came the presentation of an entirely new wardrobe for her to choose from. He was seeming more and more like one of her siblings, trying their best to just take over some random aspect of her life they thought needed extra control. Then again, Artoria was not so very picky, surely she could find something to suit her current needs while she figured out where her actual dress ran off to? "I will have a look... I make no promises about it though," she said. Finding clothing that fit her was one thing, finding clothing she liked on her own form was an entirely different matter. She was comfortable enough in what she currently wore, but it was more like extravagant bedwear, it at least made sense. The rest of the clothes strewn across this bath didn't seem too much more covering than what she had on already. It was going to be a long bath wasn't it?

Whatever the case, after Gilgamesh exited the lass stripped down and had a wash and rinse before settling herself into the pool. She dipped her head back ran fingers through wet golden locks and relaxed. Eventually, she was in this pool her eyes turned up to the ceiling partly floating just being in the warm water. What kind of man was the King of Heroes that he took even her wardrobe choices upon himself? What did he actually expect of her? Did she like being around him? Well... that was strange, she couldn't say she disliked being around him... but she also couldn't form a hard opinion one way or another. She was likely to turn to a prune before she finally found the right answer. An hour of deep contemplation in a hot bath was about all Artoria could take before she muscled herself out. A towel around her person, another around her drying locks she stood before this clothing and began thinking through what she could wear. "Too short. Too loose. Too open. There are no underwear. Why are there no undergarments? How do these people survive without accidentally flashing each other?!" she was near outraged as she settled for what could only be considered the softest of all presented choices, only found after an hour of searching through what felt like miles of clothes. A white silk number with two arms and enough length for her to feel comfortable enough. Her arms were lightly exposed, it tied under the chest with a bit of blue that was closest to her more favored pieces. It had flowy bits of fabric that apparently needed to stop above her knee for reasons she did not understand. She wasn't even a prude, but with no underwear she was officially worried. And now she was doing something about her hair, which would not take long because she only did a single bun with that braid surrounding it. The loose pieces framing her face were enough to give it her normal bit of flair with that one little blonde lock over her head completely untamable. Whatever the case she exited her bath looking exceedingly uncomfortable, though as stunning as she always did. The exposed skin on her shoulders and back only made her long for a weapon in her hand. She felt so exposed, something she figured she likely wouldn't have felt if Gilgamesh hadn't been staring at her earlier. Sandals? Yeah, it looked like she'd be wearing the sort that wrapped her legs up in golden twine, still, the overall look wasn't terrible to her she was certain, she just felt so very different.

[Bloodedge]

It could not have been more clear that Artoria wouldn't be capable of remaining in Uruk... Not yet. She had to acquire a Holy Grail for herself, and bring her own land into the sky before their glorious wedding day could be planned fully. As for her clothing, it hardly mattered. Assuming she didn't have only a single dress like some peasant back home, she could simply change to something warmer upon her arrival; it was all too simple. Without dawdling on that topic at all, Gilgamesh was back to business, as he always would be. One hour passed, and there was no sign of Artoria. Two hours passed, and she had still not arrived. How long did that woman intend to bathe? How many tablets had he gone through in this time? Too long, and too many. Multiple times, he gave consideration to the idea of sending Siduri into the baths. Of course, he refrained. Perhaps it was a simple matter of Artoria finally enjoying luxuries long overdue? Yes, that sounded reasonable. Anyone should be sure to thoroughly enjoy such an extravagant bath and selection of clothing. More important was the curiosity about her eventual arrival. What would she choose, how would she appear before him? He dared not utilize the power of his eyes; this was something he wanted to appreciate in the moment. Surely she would step into his sights within the next few tablets, no?

[Apollymi]

Artoria was moving rather carefully, she was uninjured but had become rather distinctly aware of her lack of undergarments and the general openness of her current clothing. Still it was not that she was innately uncomfortable, just one extra piece in this outfit and she could have felt less exposed so to speak. Calf-height golden straps up her legs, short silk ruffled dress with her back and shoulders mostly exposed along with a window that made it more obvious than normal that Artoria was definitely Queen of Camelot. For the time she actually looked like a cute young girl, those green eyes of hers just as sharp as they always were. She normally left clothing choices to other people, but she wouldn't say she had no sense of her own desires as far as clothes were concerned. She lived in a cold place, clothing needed functionality and coverage. It was warm so she could understand the lack of full coverage, even so, most of it didn't fit her need for functionality.

Appearing before Gilgamesh was a matter of strangeness, knowing he was watching her, she'd aim to be unbothered though it'd taken her long enough to get dressed that she figured there would be a conversation about it. Perhaps over the course of that, she could find out why her entire wardrobe included slips of fabric and no undergarments. Yes, that made sense. In the meantime, she was maintaining her regal posture, right hand clasping her left wrist behind her back as she had to try for a neutral visage. "I..." she gave pause. "Enjoyed my bath, choosing clothes however got away from me a bit there..." she managed finally. Yes, that was a good start to a strange conversation. She found herself eyeing everyone present except Gilgamesh. Why? Well, Artoria was searching for signs of undergarments, while those hands clasped behind her back did the dual job of occupying a hand that would normally be on a sword as well as keeping that short dress from blowing up due to any errant breezes.

[Bloodedge]

At long last, there she was in the throne room. Artoria truly looked the part of a Mesopotamian queen, and indeed, Gilgamesh made the perfect decision in avoiding the spoilers of this sight for himself. "H'oh?" he murmured. A tablet was lowered and set aside completely; there could be no distractions from this. Those inhuman eyes moved just slightly, scanning every inch of the Queen of Knights's form from his place on the throne. Magnificent, he thought. She was worth nothing less than a throne of her own, just beside his... or perhaps a singular large throne, as those Egyptians had? Yes, that sounded quite lovely. The grin on Gilgamesh's face could not be swept away by the strongest breeze, nor by the heaviest tide.

It was worth eons of discussion, the way she stood before him with all the poise of an innocent maiden. Even the way she held onto her virtues drove the King of Heroes to madness! What would he have to say about the time she'd taken, though? Well, given where his mind had gone within only a blink of her arrival, there was but one thing to say. "One day, you will not be bothered by such trivial things as choosing garments. You shall be far more concerned pondering over when your legs will regain functionality, as I will be joining you."

[Apollymi]

Artoria was soon more than vividly aware that Gilgamesh was staring at her. How strange it was to note that she didn't normally notice such things, but now having been made fully aware of them she could practically feel his eyes on her skin. She would not falter though she also would not be making eye contact. She was not certain what would be found in her own eyes, but she still didn't understand his fascination with her person, and as such she had no intention of giving him further ammunition. Too bad she did not realize that she had to do nothing other than exist and speak. Her words about dressing brought about a strange answer from Gilgamesh. The wheels in Artoria's mind turned and then she realized exactly what he meant. Those eyes of hers widened and her face shifted to a bright shade of red. Why was her face hot?! That didn't make sense, she should be offended right? He'd obviously misinterpreted her meaning, right?! How would she respond? Well, by saying that needed to be said, "You cannot say things like that King of Heroes! It puts the wrong ideas into the minds of all present. That is not what I meant at all and that is a wild misinterpretation of my meaning," she said turning her head back to the side to avoid an accidental moment of eye contact.

"Anyway, I was looking for undergarments and I found none and I was very confused because I have seen women walking around in loin cloths and the like with their chests out," she said giving a due amount of thought to all particulars. "And I do get it, warm weather tends to mean fewer layers but does everyone here literally just choose top or bottom coverage?!" she asked seemingly shocked and trying to recover from rather suddenly having a red face. "I would not want to reveal myself," she murmured. Siduri found herself looking at the Queen of Knights and in this moment, she was certain that this girl was definitely a girl and had very different customs from themselves. Moreover she wondered if she thought herself properly admonishing the King for his words. The term undergarments was used, but Siduri had seen some tiny strip of cloth on the bottom of the Queen of Knights when looking after her. She figured this was directly related to cold climate layering. Surely, all women below didn't dress with so many extra layers.

[Bloodedge]

Perhaps the visiting Queen of Knights should have kept herself silent in the aftermath of Gilgamesh's words? She may have wanted to avoid handing him ammunition, but alas... the King of Heroes made ammunition of everything. Surely their battle a few days prior was testament to this, yet here she was... saying words that only armed him further, regardless of their intention. He was so amused by Artoria's reaction, he even leaned into his own knees, hands clasped and beaming down upon her. "Fuhahaha! And what wrong impression have I given? I assure you, my meaning is delivered as intended... unless you've missed the point," he rambled, head tilting as he sat fully within his element. "Shall I be clearer for you and the rest of this world? Siduri, take note. Engrave on the sturdiest tablet that the king will conquer the Queen of Knights, and she will be left gimp for a fortnight in the aftermath."

With all this talk of undergarments, one would wonder where the queen thought she was. This place was Uruk, of hot days and cold nights. It only made sense for one to go without those useless additional layers by sunlight, worrying for nothing by moonrise as they greeted the hearth at night. As for coverage... well, that was just pointless, wasn't it? "Spare my city your notions of propriety. One's form here need only be sheltered from the elements, not the wandering eyes of others. Clothing shall be as ornamentation. Do those garments not suit you? I find them... titillating~"

[Apollymi]

OH. NO. Artoria was clever enough to understand the King of Heroes meaning even without him going into further detail. That being said, the man himself was so amused by the entire situation that he even sat forward on his throne and laughed. He would have Siduri take dictation, to what end? Well, according to the King the record that was supposed to be made was one to do with his conquest of the Queen of Knights and her subsequent rest period thereafter. Siduri's eyes widened, poor girl and why would the King of Heroes bring her into this fray, she'd done nothing to deserve the Queen's ire. The color in Artoria's face hit a maximum peak of reddened color. What was she actually supposed to say to that? Her hand moved and she realized she was unarmed. Yes, violence was her first response and violence she would have. "I will have my weapon back now!" A demand issued by the Queen of Knights when she'd been so nice before now. Siduri could only wonder if she was about to bear witness to the violence of Artoria Pendragon. The Queen of Knights herself on the other hand, was so very confused by this man's forthright nature that she could hardly contain her own thoughts enough to process them. Who actually spoke so freely and why in all humanity was it aimed precisely at her? She needed to be armed. Yes, she realized that being armed against words was not at all conducive to continued conversation, but when one's life was violence a sword in hand calmed the nerves.

Ah, but it seemed before she even received her weapon she was due to receive more unnecessary torture from the King of Heroes. Clothing here was apparently basically optional, she'd gathered that from the amount of random nudity she saw on a day to day basis in the city. Again, she wasn't judging it was a personal matter of comfort that she sought. What was more, there was the claim that the King of Heroes liked what she'd chosen to wear, and wondered if she was displeased. WHAT?! Artoria was nowhere near armed enough to be hit with such a weapon today. Had anyone in her life ever complimented the way she looked before this point? No. She didn't even think much of her own attire at all. But that was a compliment was it not?! "I do not dislike the clothes. What I want, I want for my own comfort, I am not such a tyrant as to tell people about their own clothing choices," she mentioned having turned from outrage to normal in just a second or two if only to help herself along a bit. "Now, if you do not mind. I need my weapon and to go on a walk... before preparing to return back to Camelot," she mentioned her eyes closed for several moments only to open them and stare back at the King of Heroes taking a few steps forward and wait with open hand to take hold of the normal weight of Excalibur once more.

[Bloodedge]

Oh, how would the chaste queen react now? Apparently, she'd do so by demanding the return of her weapon. How absolutely hilarious. It was no secret that he fully intended to bed this woman; that much was a given by his desire to wed her, was it not? The red hue stretched across her face had many implications, all of them good in some way to Gilgamesh. As such, he only laughed more. It had almost become painful by the time his guffawing came to an end, and by that time, Artoria was commenting on her... well, her apparent lack of clothing preference for visual purposes. "And you find comfort in further covering your unmentionables? Such grace you have with every movement; surely there is no chance of a mishap. By all means though, if such a thing were to happen, let it be so in my private quarters. I will allow it."

Again, Artoria spoke of Excalibur. This time was slightly different, as she began to approach the king at his throne. Watching her ascend those stairs made every event of this world thus far worthwhile, all for the sake of imagining her doing so as Queen of Uruk. Again... one day. Alas, the sorrowful moment of parting would soon be upon him. A hand was extended, and it would be filled with the Holy Sword Excalibur. "Very well. I have chosen to allow your rambunctious behavior, so here. As I will soon place part of myself in this hand, I return to you your sword. You may keep the dagger." Naturally, there would only be more of such speech each time they met; today would especially be no exception. There was greatness to this moment of passing, however. In parting moments, there had to be parting words befitting the state of acceptance Gilgamesh reached regarding this woman. "When next we meet, you will have a divine chalice to drink from after a toast to our union. I will tolerate nothing less from the likes of you."

[Apollymi]

The laughter of Gilgamesh at her current state of embarrassment was a thing the Queen of Knights had never heard so freely before. She was not sure, but somehow this man was instantly more tolerable while being in this sort of good mood, though she would not speak on that. The conversation shifted back to this lack of undergarments and she gave a small sigh. Of course, he would say the things he said. And even made the claim that he doubted she could reveal anything accidentally, though he gave her his permission to do so in his private quarters. "The functionality of clothing is equally important, whether I have the grace to avoid incident or not... I cannot imagine being in such a state for very long," she said softly. Truly, the Queen of Knights had an image to uphold and felt that the current level of exposure of her rear would taint that. Perhaps it wouldn't because she'd only ever felt the eyes of the King of Heroes on her so thoroughly, but her image of herself as a person was apparently very different from how the world saw her at large.

So after a few steps she was standing before Gilgamesh, that dagger was in her other hand and she'd intended to hand it back to him. But his words implied he did not wish to take it back from her. Curiosity painted the visage of Artoria as her hand closed around Excalibur. "My actions are never truly rambunctious, King of Heroes. In this case though, I do apologize in advance for the extra clerical duties that will befall you..." she said earnestly. Still her eyes shifted to that dagger in her other hand, she was told she could keep it, and found herself staring at it for a few seconds longer. Arguing about it would change nothing, that much was obvious given the king's attitude. "Thank you, for the dagger then." she said turning on her heel a firm grip on Excalibur. What was this, more words from the King of Heroes. He expected her to come back with her cup in her hand. Oh? He wasn't questioning her resolve or ability at this point, merely making a claim. The smallest upturn of Artoria's lips would take place as her feet were finally placed on the ground again. "Your toleration of the situation not withstanding King of Heroes... that cup is mine." Siduri looked at the Queen of Knights in this moment and knew the King of Heroes had chosen his bride well, whenever that came to pass, she'd happily serve them both. And with that statement alone Artoria went to retrieve her knight from his tasks and do a little spring cleaning before leaving the city of Uruk.

[Bloodedge]

There she went. Moving away from the throne, Artoria Pendragon held fast to her Holy Sword as always. He knew the purpose of her preemptive apology; he'd known all along what she would do when released. For three days, he'd been laughing at it occasionally. Perhaps he'd laugh again once the future became the present? That would be incredible. Just as incredible though, was the conviction with which Artoria spoke of the Holy Grail. She sounded so very much like... him. To lay claim to something before it even existed was his divine privilege, and his alone. Of course, he could extend that right to his betrothed. Yes... it was allowable for her to behave that way.

And so, the king watched his future queen depart, presumably for the final time within the decade unless paths diverged along the way. Even ten years apart would be nothing, though. He'd spend the duration of a decade watching, and maybe, just maybe... he'd visit her in the world below when the Holy Grail reared its head once more. Now that he thought about it, that was a wonderful idea! Who better to great the Queen of Knights as she claimed her rite of ascension, than the king who accepted her into his midst long before the event transpired? Oh, he'd have to get a new suit to wear, or something along those lines. "Fufuhaha! Siduri! When the people come crying over the defiled temples, tell them the world belongs to mankind now, and send them on their way! I've been contemplating the possibilities for some time now, but... perhaps I will give this hope thing a try."

[Apollymi]

Siduri took note of the king's words. Was this truly what the Queen of Knights intended? She'd heard the woman was upset, heard she'd suffered an attempted attack at the hands of a certain vengeful goddess but she'd never expected someone so different, so very human to take on such a task. Cutting off the temple of a God or Goddess was a real way to end their power. With no where to go to, they'd have to migrate or be weakened in Celestia for some time to come. Artoria Pendragon, the blonde haired girl with a face most angelic planned to commit acts of sacrilege no one else had dared. Something about that as an ideal resonated within Siduri. Only a small smirk appeared on her face, beneath her veil, "Of course my King. It shall be done."

Artoria was not a rambunctious child by any means. Instead she was Queen and a woman. She'd decided weeks ago, that no god who allowed such depravity in their ranks deserved worship. She'd decided the goddess who perpetuated the rape of a virgin Queen over a man that woman barely understood, could not call herself a woman, much less one for worship. No. Artoria took unto herself what she always would, responsibility for the state of the world. Just as she'd wrested Albion from the hands of a Usurper, she'd pull mankind from the clutches of false deities. Those who did right by their people, she had no qualms with. The Pharaohs in Egypt were gods incarnate and they were fine individuals. Even Gilgamesh himself, two-thirds a divinity had shown more tact. No. The Queen of Knights had just the word no, to utter in response to atrocities, like the goddess Ishtar. She walked the countryside on her way back down, entering first into the temple of Ishtar. She ushered everyone out of said temple and then stood outside of it. That golden light raised high above her head as she charged a weapon. People would stay by awestruck as the cries were heard. "EX-CALIBUR!" the whole of a temple would crash down in its wake, leaving nothing but rubble behind. Each and everyone one she saw she took the same actions too, sparing disrespect based on their stories. The Crone, The Smith, The Stranger and the Mother, were headed by those with sense and those without absolute failure etched into their stories. But, she still could not allow one temple to stand. No, she took them all down and at the end of four days, she approached the chill of Camelot with a smile on her face having taken the realest step to freeing mankind. She had only a decades time to prepare for the next Holy Grail War. And so she would prepare.

[Bloodedge]

One decade, and one decade alone. In that ten short years, many things transpired. The world, or even the Nexus, had made a few decisions based on the previous two battles for the Holy Grail. Choosing a champion was made all too easy, and it had not yet been made clear whether those champions were the proper choices. Moreover, the second Holy Grail war permitted an anomaly in the form of King Gilgamesh. As that could never be allowed again, the Grail itself was given the ability of choice. Knights of the Round Table, Lady Galahad, Sir Percival, and the former's squire, Freed, had discovered the physical representation of the Holy Grail within a magically-fortified castle. Sir Percival was wielder of his own Holy Artifact, Longinus, and had thus been capable of bypassing the mighty walls set up by the Grail's existence.

What that group of knights did with the Holy Grail, was an affront to the war itself. There was to be no war, but instead a proving of ability. Artoria Pendragon, Queen of Camelot, was made the holder of a chalice which continued to call upon warriors far and wide. Only a year or so after the Grail was collected, it vanished, returning to the castle from whence it came. Artoria would find herself summoned by the very goblet she'd been handed a year prior, along with six others who sought its power. All the while, Gilgamesh would be watching from high above as the bounded field began to form within Albion itself. . .

[Apollymi]

A single decade and Camelot had some very interesting happenings in the meantime. Artoria Pendragon, was Queen of Camelot and spent her time doing what she always did. She trained, she worked, she raised more knights. She did good deeds and she after some time, held the Holy Grail, if only for a short while. Apparently, the rules of this particular challenge had changed quite a bit and Artoria herself was transported to the magical castle which the cup had spawned from originally. "Hm, something has changed..." she murmured. Still her resolve to hold on to her Holy Grail would not be shaken. Her life had gone back to normal, and she was currently dressed in blue and white, though not the dress worn in Uruk. No, it was one of a similar design though not truly the same and over it, several pieces of armor would emerge as she took her own stance. She'd prefer some easier methods of gaining it, but if she needed to she'd slay every other person who came forward. That magical castle would apparently sit her close to the grail itself, and she like a good protector would plant herself before it, waiting to take all comers.

At the same time, a white haired young woman could soon be found within the area as well. She had a veil on her hair, but her tanned skin and red eyes seemed to belie a less than friendly nature. Still she seemed to be watching waiting just on the verge of combat. Strangely there were long white lines painted along the exposed skin of her body, each of these seemed to glow in turn as she readied herself for whatever challenge would come. Still within the cover of some nearby trees, she seemed to have a reasonable enough vantage point.

The last of the young women to appear, would be a girl with long red ponytails. She had a keen eye but also seemed to be the most confused. She hid herself at the very edge of the castle wall, seeming to peek out while hiding herself. She couldn't help but allow her vermillion eyes to scan. She was looking for a very particular person, though she made the assumption he wouldn't be found here. Her leg was against the wall and her visage looked a tiny bit sullen. She'd know within a few moments what was going on, until then she'd have to wait and see.

[Bloodedge]

This Holy Grail had carefully selected those who would be allowed to seek it. Each participant, if victorious, would alter reality around them in some way. Alas, the choice was not too carefully made; some selections may have undergone drastic changes since the Grail chose them. Either way, there were seven. Each appeared at once, and the bounded field erected itself. "The Holy Grail will choose another. Seven have been found; seven will be tested. Seven times, fill the Grail. One remaining may drink."

The mysterious voice spoke into the minds of seven participants, and then, the space around them all appointed their roles... and therefore their names during this competition. For Artoria Pendragon herself, she was once again designated Saber. An anomaly appeared in the form of the tattooed, white-haired woman. For some reason even the Nexus could not comprehend, she could not be properly placed. As such, she was designated Foreigner. As for the red-haired one in hiding, she was given the mantle of Archer. Four others remained. By the waters outside this castle, a blue-haired young man with a braided ponytail and a wooden staff was granted Caster, much to his chagrin. Upon a nearby hill, there was a dark-skinned giant of a man, bald and covered in various markings and golden ornaments. This one was granted Berserker. At the front gate was another hulk of a male, red of hair and beard, and infinitely satisfied by his location. He happened to be an enemy to the previous individual. This one had just managed to steal Rider from his rival in this competition. Lastly, a tall and thin male figure arrived wearing a full suit and... very long bandages covering his head and hands. The bandages on his head were marked with three large, sideways eye-like designs that glowed crimson as he observed the selected battlefield. He was another anomaly, deemed Avenger by the Grail.

With that, the seven participants of the Third Holy Grail War were chosen. Titles were granted, and they could all proceed with their hunt for the omnipotent wish-granting apparatus. . .

[Apollymi]

Saber. Yes, once more Artoria was pegged Saber by this world's wish granting cup. At this point the young woman in blue wasn't even surprised, not even as she planted her sword in front of her, this time it was wrapped in invisible air the length and look of it hidden by a compressed swirl of air that was magical in nature. It was honorable for Artoria to claim her cup with herself at the ready, but she'd not exactly been quiet throughout her time in Albion, she did not wish to be unchallenged for something as simple as the holy sword she wielded. Still as this voice gave her mind new words to think she grinned the happiest smile that had crossed her face since the start of the decade. There was little that excited Artoria, but one of those things was a good fight, "Foreigner, Avenger? Those are strange classes, I would have words..." she uttered in an almost excitable manner. So then, how long would it take for someone to reach this castle directly? She couldn't give up an advantageous spot and the hard work of her people just to chase and sate her bloodlust.

The girl titled Archer wondered if she could take the Saber. She seemed to be a girl about as small as herself, and she would have the advantage of range right? That seemed like a good enough idea. She'd wait a while to take that particular shot though. At the same time, the one titled Foreigner found herself walking along as if unhindered. For all intents and purposes it did not matter who she fought, she would simply fight whoever she came across and strong arm them into fighting with her. Yes, that was the most apt plan, if she did that, she could drink from the Holy Grail herself and then bask in the ambiance of the moment. As such, her movements through the woods left her open. The Archer in this case, looked upon this one, and decided it was far too easy to shoot her... no one left themselves so open without purpose. She'd refrain once more. Who... who would be the first to start combat?

[Bloodedge]

This war would be no simple matter of one person initiating combat. The young male in this group of seven had already become mobile. He lamented the Class granted to him by this Holy Grail, but of course, he could blame his master for causing such a thing. She'd been the one to force him into magical training, which made him forego his preferred fighting style for quite some time now. Whatever the case, Caster decided to go for fortification first and foremost. There was a castle here, and for all he knew, it was at least relatively empty. What would he do then? Only two magical sources were inside. One could assume the grail was within as well, so he would take his chances. The first few moments of this war were spent by Caster utilizing Territory Creation to form a space of his own around the Grail Castle, working toward sealing it in to avoid having too many problems at once. Surely he could deal with the two inside, and any others would first have to find their way through a misty labyrinth being created immediately around the castle. Yes, perhaps something like that would funnel them enough for Caster to take down one opponent after another.

Meanwhile, Rider was perhaps the most excited of the bunch. What he saw in this war was the ultimate opportunity for conquest. He manifested a grand chariot drawn by two black bulls, and took up his mount. He rode off toward a glorious battle, but there was another watching. Berserker was not one of great magical ability, but he was a necromancer tried and true. The corpses of his own fallen armies inhabited the ground around him, and they were beginning to rise while eyes were set on Rider.

[Apollymi]

"A mage." Artoria said noting the start of territory creation. She was quite familiar with it by this point in her life, and would have no issues being trapped within such a space. If the worst happened, she could puncture most without too much issue. The Archer though didn't like this at all. She was beginning to have her targets disappear from sight as she was right outside the castle. She pulled the string of her bow, a shot charging alight with energy as she fired it, aiming for the center of Caster's body from her current position which was from the castle's broken battlements slightly above and to the left of his position. If it struck it would go straight through him, disrupting his spell and leaving the castle be. Regardless of that fact her position would become obvious if it wasn't already, so she'd already begun figuring out the next aspect of her plan.

In the meantime the one called Foreigner felt the start of war among several bodies. As such she easily found herself moving through the woods towards the location of Berserker and Rider. Why not? She was here to fight and they seemed the most apt to do so. She didn't seem to care much about anything and instead each and every step she took would be seemingly unguarded and uncaring. Did she truly believe so highly of herself that she wore no protection and took no precautions? Well not exactly, she'd simply decided she'd come here for a fight and she would have it.

[Bloodedge]

Caster continued to forge his territory. An interruption was soon to come, though, in the form of none other than Archer. Luckily for him, he had just the supportive ability to deal with someone loosing arrows in his direction. The lad was born with a protection which specifically functioned against projectiles. Though its primary purpose was against those he could see, it did offer its gift to him in other ways as well. The mere sound of air being cut through, the intent to kill─ these were things his senses picked up easily at range. Maybe his master deserved some praise after all, if only for bolstering this ability so much. At any rate, Caster's creation was brought to a standstill by the sudden need to evade a stray arrow. He leapt back, watching the projectile rip through the air in front of him. The lad was then able to follow its trajectory right back to the redhead from whence it came. "Oi!" he shouted, waving a staff that launched half a dozen fireballs in the woman's direction. "I'm building over here! Rude! I was coming for you later!"

While the first encounter of this war became official, the second was getting underway as well. Berserker's dead army had come out to halt Rider's forward momentum. Corpses piled atop one another and merged, eventually forming a giant war elephant to thwart the chariot ahead of it. Berserker stood atop said elephant, wielding two axes with gems that produced emerald flames. "You again, eh? Wahahaha! I won't be going easy!" Rider proclaimed. There was a great magical power within the elephant, and just as much forming around Rider as he summoned a phalanx through even the bounded field. Soldiers charged, undead charged, and just like that... an entire battlefield had already been created on the mountainside.

[Apollymi]

If Caster could build a territory he probably should be finishing it, this was the thought of Artoria as she began using her right hand to play with a small ornate dagger while the other held tight a grip on her sword. The movement of great armies outside of this immediate area said that finishing such a thing would be helpful to both him and those also stuck in the area. Even so, the redhaired girl who'd attacked him would much rather use the extra carnage to her own advantage. She didn't think she could take the Saber alone, nor did she think getting locked into a space with her and Caster was a good idea. He'd stopped the formation of his territory, but it seemed that he was somewhat immune to arrows. How strange. Her arrow went through the air instead of through his body and now he was calling her rude and raining fireballs down on her. "I am not rude. You are the one trying to trap me in here with a monster!" she exclaimed. If this group was smart they probably would have tried taking out either one of the men with a whole army at their disposal or the girl sitting in the castle with the grail. Alas it seemed small battles were breaking out instead. The fireballs were raining down but the girl didn't seem to be moving at all. That bow of hers remained drawn as she shot off multiple arrows instead of defending herself. A whole line was fired in rapid succession aiming for each of his limbs and a few at the direct center of his body and she should have been burning but she could not, her own skills made her immune to fire. She'd been burned on purpose before and now she would use fire as cover to try and shoot enough arrows at the man that they couldn't be dodged, all while keeping him from finishing his territory.

While progress was aimed to be stopped, both Rider and Berserker were seemingly on the move with two whole armies at their disposal. A war elephant and a chariot, a phalax and an army of undead. Foreigner stood at the edge of this great battlefield and her arms crossed over her chest. This was her element two armies clashing combatants clobbering each other each one trying to win the ultimate battle. Was there an opportune moment to attack? Probably, she'd wait for it... all the while not seeming to be negatively impacted by an army of the dead nor an army of soldiers.

[Bloodedge]

Archer was being consumed by the magical flames produced by Caster, but still, she attacked. Though he couldn't see past the fire, he had eyes on her location now. That array of arrows she unleashed could only slow down his territory progress by requiring much more movement of him. He dodged and dodged, wondering why this woman wasn't burning alive. "What monster? The only monster I know is somebody who tries to snipe a guy while he's building!" he insisted. Once he had a brief moment of reprieve between evasions, Caster tapped the heels of his shoes. A rune was applied to each, showing a sudden drastic increase to his maneuverability. Something previously annoying was suddenly more of a stepping dance, and almost... fun-looking. With that, he was able to at least progress a little on creating his mist fortress. "Guess you're Archer then, huh? Why don't you scream when I set you on fire?"

Foreigner was observing a more legitimate war take place, and the two main participants were none the wiser to her presence. Their focus was entirely on the other combatant in their little duel. Bloodshed on one side, rotting limbs falling apart on the other; there seemed to be no end in sight to the carnage. Such was the case when these two met on the battlefield. At this rate, the pair of them would expend all their energy throwing soldiers at each other's army until one of them fell. Rider carried a great deal of confidence in this encounter, though. Berserker's army was virtually endless, but his was the mightier by far. One could fell five hundred, and the other could easily topple a thousand; Rider's would end with the greater kill count. The only suspicious thing about this battle to the red-haired man was the fact that this army wasn't previously undead. . .

[Apollymi]

What monster?! Did he really not sense that massive power aside from the Holy Grail within this space. "I am no monster. I am Archer obviously but do you truly not sense that presence with the cup?" she asked as if mortified. If she'd known he didn't realize what was in there, she might have let him go in and get crushed. "Besides, getting trapped in there with her is not a good idea," she said giving a firm nod. This man was not the one she was looking for, of this she was certain. Even so, he seemed reasonable enough after a few sentences. He wanted to know why she didn't scream when he'd tried to set her own fire, she gave a superficial shrug. "I was once given a trial by fire. I was found innocent of that which I was accused fire cannot harm me as a result," she said as if it was a simple enough reason. Knowing she was immune to fire he might try using something else, but there was no problem in her near future. His increased steps and the advancement on his steps made him a harder target to take aim at, Archer would soon be forced to just loose as many arrows as possible and hope she managed to snag him once. Maybe one more person could show up, if she was being honest she simply didn't wish to be trapped along with this lad in this labyrinth he was building with the Saber she'd seen inside with the cup.

Berserker and Rider were currently fighting and Berserker was using corpses. There was nothing new in the bodies of the dead, Foreigner didn't truly appreciate that side of the fight. Still, this was war, so she'd allow them to continue. One winner needed to be determined before she felt it necessary to interfere. All would fall to her, she was certain of this... but she was uninterested in the squabble taking place between these two warlords. She wanted combat, true combat.

[Bloodedge]

A presence within? There was something inside, and there was presumably the Grail itself. Perhaps Caster had been mistaken about something. Alternatively, this was all some strange plan to throw him off and take advantage of the moment. "Yeah yeah, that sounds terrifying and all, but I've got a thing about trusting women who throw shit at me as a hello!" he griped. The memories being triggered in Caster's mind were not at all pleasant, and in fact... they were quite traumatizing. Worse yet, was the reveal of Archer's lack of burning.

Oh... damn. Suddenly, Caster's movements came to a screeching halt. One additional arrow swept by his face, dealing him no injury, but cutting through his hair en route to the ground. Why did this have to be his luck? "You... don't burn," he said. A sigh was the next thing to pass his lips, followed quickly by a more upbeat tone thrown Archer's way. "So! You not being burnable makes us a perfect pair to team up, doesn't it?" he asked, even with a bright smile on his face. It seemed the only guaranteed way he had to deal with this one was to let her be eliminated along the way. Otherwise, he wouldn't be touching that cup regardless. "Whaddaya say, huh? Pretty girl like you has to see the benefits, right? Besides, I hate fighting girls in general~" In actuality, Caster spoke truth. His master was a woman, but her training didn't exactly allow much "fighting" her per se. If he could kill two birds with one stone, he'd do so without a second thought. An epic battle was happening not far from their location as well, by the sound of things. Maybe he could let her be worn down over the duration of the war, and get himself a cheeky victory in the end?

[Apollymi]

Artoria was still sitting on that one spot, that ornate dagger dancing over her fingers as she absently waited for her challengers to appear. Why wasn't she moving? The answer was simple, if she ended up having to kill everyone here, she'd rather take it one at a time without revealing fully how it occurred. Beyond that, she'd already laid claims to this cup, so she'd take on the challengers who came for her directly, as they were the ones most likely to sate her desire for battle. Besides that, her ability to feel energy relative to herself would allow her better general strategizing. Patience was not often practiced by Saber, but today... for complete victory she'd sit. Not hiding but hording her specific treasure waiting for the potential thieves to show up. Perhaps, if she'd had less concentration, she would realize that she seemed a lot like the King of Heroes in this moment, but she was focused and not on him. Well, that wasn't entirely true, the dagger in her hand was an ornate one, given to her as a gift a decade ago by that very man. She hadn't been able to part with it since getting it for reasons she didn't properly understand yet.

"I also do not like being trapped in places without my consent. Especially not with people who are trying to kill me to gain a blessed cup," she said as if this was a perfectly normal conversation to have. The last arrow loosed by Archer slid past the face of the man who was Caster. It appeared he was stunned to find she wouldn't be set on fire. She wondered now if he was one of those mages who specialized in a specific kind of magic, and it would seem the answer was yes... though he didn't say so. Even so, she confirmed it by his sudden tone switch and his desire to be partners. "You cannot win in a fight against me," she said as an observation. "I would not mind a partner, it would make my tasks easier. But... if you truly do not like fighting women you are going to have to do some more thinking. The one in this castle is definitely a woman and she by power alone is frightening." Archer's statements were factual. By her own account there were three women in this area and two of them overpowered her by quite a bit.

[Bloodedge]

Caster wasn't trying to kill any specific person for a cup. It was more like... he was trying to wipe out everyone necessary for a cup, which would then give him a leg up over his master. Sadly, Archer came to realize the true reason he offered a partnership. It was true that he had no way of defeating her, at least while they were both at their best. His best hope of besting her in combat would be tiring her out first. Besides, there was no telling what else she had in her arsenal. If she only had arrows, they'd be at a lengthy stalemate. If she had anything with some decent spread to it, however, he was in quite a bit of danger in a proper fight. "Uh, well... no. No I can't. I wouldn't even be a Caster if my damn mentor didn't toss me out here without my spe─" Wait, what did she say? There was a woman here, and she was frightening? Only one woman he'd ever seen registered as such, and it was the very master he spoke of. Oh... Caster had best shut his mouth then, eh? Panic overtook him, the light leaving his eyes and a shiver passing through his every fiber. "I... I... no. Please no. Please stop following me places," he chanted as if from memory. It would have been no surprise to him if his master sent him to this wretched place, only to follow and become his final obstacle. The thought alone was enough to make him think of resigning this war. "Can I quit if it's her? Would she kill me if I quit because it's her? It can't be her, right? There's another monster woman in the world somewhere. . ."

[Apollymi]

Archer was soon made privy to the fact that Caster could not best her as he was. Apparently, he was not normally a magic user, that explained quite a bit. But at the mention of the strong woman within the castle, he immediately went into a panic she had never had the privilege of witnessing before. Whatever his 'master' was she was a scary strong woman that Caster didn't want following him around. He wanted to know if he could quit if she was the one in the castle, that did not bode well. "I mean, I have heard it is possible to bow out of a Holy Grail War, but I do not know what is required to do so..." she said carefully. Poor lad. "We do not know it is her, so please calm down. The one inside is Saber from what I can tell, is your master a sword user of some sort?" It would seem that this Archer was a fairly caring individual, she didn't wish this man any undue distress. She was only involved as it was trying to find her husband, everything else she did not truly care for. "Regardless, if we are going to be partnered you will need to pull yourself together," she said giving the man a curt nod which made those pigtails of hers swing in the breeze. For two people who had been fighting a few seconds ago, they'd calmed down quite a bit. "Your territory, what were you planning to do with it?" she asked calmly. Perhaps if it was built well, she could abuse it to avoid wearing herself out and in turn get them both closer to their goals. She was fairly vigilant regardless, keeping an eye on everyone around them knowing the locations of the other individuals relative to their current position. Whatever they decided to do, they would need to be ready by the time the two big men finished fighting each other.

[Bloodedge]

"Of course you don't. I wouldn't be surprised if she made it impossible to quit anyway, just for me," Caster rambled. There was no end to the troubles in this lad's mind. If his master was anywhere near this war, everything was over. Maybe someone could take her down, but certainly not him or anyone he was capable of fighting! Ah, but there was a shining beacon of hope on the horizon. By Archer's words, the woman inside was deemed Saber. A sigh of relief came from Caster; he knew that abominable woman would not spawn as such. Her own power would go against even her parameters, even if the Grail tried. "Whew! No... definitely not her. She'd be Lancer, maybe even Assassin if she felt extra murder-y. But... what if she's just been hiding stuff this whole time─"

Right out of a spiral, and right back in. Caster's master was one of the most problematic women in this world, by his standards and the standards of many others. He officially wasn't worried about anyone else could appear; that was the extent of her torment. Nevertheless, he did have to calm down. Slapping his own cheeks, Caster squinted. Archer wanted to know about his territory. So, she was agreeing to the partnership after all? Good! "Right, right. OK! I'm calm, I'm cool, everything's gonna be fine! The plan is to funnel. Since I'm stuck being Caster, I don't want to go around dealing with too many problems at once. This territory is one I've been trying to work on for a while now, as opposed to the one I can pull off easily. It should be a misty labyrinth that keeps everybody separate by the time they reach this castle. Here... Kenaz." With this chant, Caster carefully raised a finger to point at the red-haired woman's forehead. She would be granted a superior form of sight by rune, allowing her to see beyond the intricacies of his territory without any additional input on her part.

[Apollymi]

"That seems extreme for training," Archer mentioned. Just because she wasn't sure how it was possible, didn't mean someone's mentor had the power to just change how the Holy Grail worked. It was practically a magical entity unto itself. Still it was fine, apparently his master couldn't be a Saber so all was fine... or not. Actually, it was definitely not. The Caster immediately fell into another depression about the things that his master could have hidden from him. Still if Lancer or Assassin were the best options they were mostly safe. "You are very easily worked up, you know..." she said carefully. It was no wonder he was afraid of his training. But he also seemed to bounce back pretty quickly. As far as she could tell both of these were pretty good skills to have.

How did he bounce back? By explaining what it was he was trying to do, and offering her a rune which allowed her to see within the territory he was creating. This was very good. She'd been a bit worried initially about losing her line of slight. She needed it to be useful as an Archer. But if she could see regardless of the space he put up, she could still be useful and they might have a more reasonable shot at working down the competition. "Yes, now that I can see I don't mind this territory. I am still wary of Saber though... maybe it will be possible to catch her off-guard at some point. Or maybe wait out one of the other strong ones to distract her," she offered as the best possible strategy. Her charged shots could be extremely strong with magical fire behind them, but... getting a clear shot and the time necessary to charge it was dangerous. She'd rather not risk it not working before she could use it properly. Thus their partnership was mutually beneficial.

[Bloodedge]

"Everything she does is extreme." These words left Caster's mouth with a great lack of energy, as if it had been sapped from him by the thought alone. It was no lie that the lad was easily worked-up. In his defense, however, it was also no lie that his master was an absolute menace. Assuming his master had nothing to do with this Holy Grail War was the best route to take, so Caster tried his hardest to do just that. He shared his rune with the Archer, as well as the idea he was working on. They could both benefit from funneling and/or separating the opponents, though she had a point about Saber being an issue. Maybe they could even use the other combatants to have her dealt with, or weakened? If she was such a threat, perhaps Archer could be Saber's final opponent, and he could deal with the weakened winner? "Hmm. Should we take the wait-and-see approach?" he asked while returning to the work on his labyrinth.

Meanwhile, the battle of Rider and Berserker was taking a turn at last. Berserker's undead army was no true necromancy; they were not being restored fully each time they fell. This little war was becoming more one-sided by the moment; few undead warriors remained. Berserker occasionally attempted to reduce the size of his war elephant to bolster the army's numbers, but Rider's soldiers were already in high spirits; those numbers would dwindle quickly again. Between these two, the victor was likely clear already to any who happened to know who they were by this display of overwhelming might.

[Apollymi]

Caster's master was apparently just extreme, Archer could agree, if only because he didn't even have his usual weapon on him in the middle of a Holy Grail War. He went back to work, asking her thoughts on the wait and see approach and she turned her eyes back towards the battlefield. Saber was a frightening power, There were two irregular classed individuals and the pair of them who couldn't easily fight each other either way. "Waiting it out for at least a little while seems like the best option. I think one of the irregular classes might give us a hint about Saber, but I couldn't decide a target when I first drew my bow and that hasn't changed yet," Archer said. Her analysis was astute. Though she'd spawned close to Saber, she was innately worried about revealing her position to someone so strong, no other potential targets even looked like the sorts she'd want to fight. They could wait, she could maybe pick off a few of the others in an opportune moment or two, that seemed like the best strategy for them.

Foreigner stood on the sidelines watching the outcome of the battle between Berserker and Rider. The longer that display carried on, the more obvious the winner became, "Hmpf" just that little noise was enough and rather suddenly that tanned body began moving forward. Red eyes were narrowing as she took steps forward at the edge of the battlefield on the way she picked up a spear. That spear, transformed in her hands, taking on a strange quality only to be thrown immediately through a man that belonged to Berserker and into the one that belonged to Rider. They were in her way and she wouldn't tolerate it. She jumped over a large collection of individuals, those crests lining her body glowing as she landed in the middle of the battlefield. Every person she encountered was killed by her along the way, each time she stopped she picked up a new weapon used it and discarded it as if it were nothing. All the while she was headed for Berserker, if Rider wouldn't put him out of his misery she would so they could continue on towards a more proper battle. What would she do? Well, she'd have to reach him first.

[Bloodedge]

Saber was nothing he wanted to hear about now. If she was such a problem, Caster was content to leave her inside the castle; she could be someone else's problem. Then again, he didn't want much to do with any of the others in this battle either. The only thing that could make him properly interested in this Holy Grail War would be having his spear, and there was no such thing in sight. Worse yet, his parameters were geared toward Caster, so he couldn't even get away with picking one up. With that same Kenaz rune applied to his own sights, Caster took the time to inspect the others outside. Something was off. There was himself, Archer, obviously Rider and Berserker locked in combat, and some strange and weaponless woman approaching the latter two. Saber was inside, but there was one irregular unaccounted for. "Huh? Keep your guard up," he said. "I'm almost done here. Can you see the seventh person?"

Rider's victory was in sight. Sadly, that very victory had a chance of being taken from him by the sudden appearance of a woman. She was not herself armed, taking up weapons from fallen soldiers and plowing her way through Berserker's minions... but also his own soldiers. For a moment, he wasn't sure what to think of this. An enemy was an enemy, but what was this madwoman's intention? "This is beyond absurd! Wait your turn girl; I'll have your head next!" Rider yelled across the battlefield. In the meantime, Berserker's rage enhanced by the appearance of another foe. A mighty roar left the near-mindless male, and the same came from the war elephant beneath him. Corpses and skeletons were launched forth in two waves, both targeting Foreigner and a great deal of Rider's forces. First came the skeletal army wielding bladed weapons, moving as a stream with their blades pointed forward. Behind them was a mass of corpses moving as a wave, hellbent on consuming Foreigner, Rider and his army, and even Berserker's own servants in their path.

[Apollymi]

Ah, there was a question on the table and it was one Archer was not prepared to answer. She'd never actually let her guard down, it was part of her overall strategy to know where every individual was, and pick off the one she thought to take in direct combat. That'd been thrown out the window the moment Caster had started work on his territory but now that they were past that little hiccup everything should be fine right. "I do not want to alarm you but..." she knew exactly where the others were. Clairvoyance along with Kenaz as a rune meant she had literally expanded her own vision by a great deal. But where was Avenger? "I am fairly certain he is above us, do not lift your head though... perhaps we can get away with ignoring him for now..." she said this but she was still charging an arrow, best case scenario she wouldn't need it, worst case scenario she'd need to shoot off an entire shot as quickly as possible in a single moment because Avenger didn't like being observed.

At the same time, more dead began moving straight for Foreigner. Though she had a weapon in hand now it seemed that her pair of opponents did not wish for interruption. For that to be the case they sure were taking a long time to finish each other off. But there was no fairness in war, only death. "I will kill you both," she said as if this was a certainty in her life. She carried on from there, a large group swarming her, would only give her more weapons to take. Those skeletal beings were easy to shatter apart, she could do so even with just her fists and their weapons were easy to handle. A wave or two would be no real hinderance as she approached Berserker and given his roar he was easy to pick out. She stood before him and his war elephant. That short broad sword currently in her hand had at its tip a charging energy blast, one which counted as her Omega Skill. "Scourge." It would release in a beam that would aim to encompass both Berserker and his elephant as well as a great deal of the battlefield behind him, leaving nothing but charred remains and scattered body parts in their wake. Admittedly, doing such a thing would completely shatter this weapon but that didn't matter, she'd simply toss it aside afterwards.

[Bloodedge]

Apparently, neither of them had an eye on the one called Avenger. Archer, however, had an idea as to that one's location, though she warned against looking. Fair enough. She had her arrow at the ready, and he could sense incoming projectiles if they were a danger. Their best bet was to remain where they were, avoiding too much conflict. Soon enough, Caster's territory was complete. A dense mana-induced fog covered the area immediately around the castle. None who entered would see, and all would ideally be led astray by shifting mana signatures within. With this, multiple enemies could approach the castle, and all would be led on a roundabout trip into others who did the same. The competition could potentially pick themselves apart while victors were picked off by Archer and Caster. "Alright, we're good to go here. I can set some traps as well, I think─" he said, not entirely sure of the functionality he could manage with those particular runes.

Foreigner made one hell of a proclamation. She'd kill them both? Fat chance, thought Rider. Even as she mounted an assault on Berserker, Rider watched her form. How would she be dealing with what he knew to be Berserker's ultimate attack? Well, she'd use a mighty force of her own, even with a pilfered weapon. No, that wasn't even the truth of it. Foreigner's defense was in place long before she even began her attack; she seemed even more unbothered by Berserker's abilities than Rider himself did. From the looks of things, she was going to be a very interesting opponent indeed. A beam the likes of which Rider expected of a mage erupted from the tip of a stolen blade with enough power to shatter the weapon itself. How strange. Rider knew that sword; it belonged to one of his men, and was made of Magisteel. How she managed to put forth enough power to destroy it was a mystery, though the potency of her attack couldn't be argued with. The hill Berserker descended from was gone. The war elephant Berserker rode was gone. The undead army following Berserker, or at least the few who remained from the elephant's collapse, were floundering about with little energy to support them. Berserker himself was nowhere to be seen, though it could be surmised that some small amount of life remained in him yet. Seeing all this, Rider could do naught but whistle. "Your bite matches the bark then, does it? I was having fun trampling that guy's army again!"

[Apollymi]

It seemed that they were going to take Archer's advice today. Good. She didn't want to deal with Avenger either, considering she had never even heard of his particular classing before. This was a strange Holy Grail War but if this is what these instances were like, she imagined her husband would have had a much easier time of the whole situation. "Traps, would be nice. I am pretty comfortable within this space but I am very worried. If we could take out a person or two without putting ourselves in direct risk that would be the best possible outcome," she murmured seeming to be rather carefully. That shot was still charged. She was just waiting for a bit too much movement above them to release that arrow up into the air. If she had to risk it, she could then run afterwards, that would be fine for keeping them relatively safe.

Berserker had been maimed at the very least, shot to the far side of this barrier. Foreigner now simply had Rider and potentially his men to deal with. She was currently unarmed again, but he'd already seen how she was, it was obvious to all after even just a few moments, that she didn't need a weapon in her hand to harm anyone else. "You were taking too long." There was a simplicity to Foreigner that couldn't really be grasped by the average person. She was here to fight so she would fight. She turned unarmed and launched herself at Rider, even with nothing in her hands she aimed an empowered kick at his chariot. Launching it by spinning her body in a circle before lifting her left foot in the faces of the beasts who pulled his rig. There was enough force in such a kick to blow a hole in the body of a lesser being, but here and now it was a greeting. A simple manner of testing his defense and mettle before she figured out if this was to be a proper mercy killing or not. That as an aside, she didn't need him having the ability to flee her once he realized how powerful she was, a simple tactic but potentially very effective.

[Bloodedge]

"Gotcha. Traps... hopefully," Caster stated. With a simple nod offered to the Archer-Class woman, he began to move. Those runes of his had to be planted directly; he wasn't very good at utilizing most of them yet. He could at least plant a few magical mines with use of runes, scattering them along paths that would be taken by any who sought entry or exit to/from the castle. "So when do we talk about a win condition here? What made you decide to work as a team at all?"

Of all the things Rider had ever heard about himself, the idea that he took "too long" with anything was ridiculous. He was the great conqueror who never stayed in a single place for very long at all, always moving on to the next land that would become his. Now, he sought the Holy Grail and ascension to the mythical place in the sky. If he could conquer those lands, his legend would never die! "Too long for fun? That's just─" What did he intend to say? Apparently, it didn't matter. This woman may as well have been marked Berserker, quick as she was to kick his chariot with surprisingly monstrous strength. With wide eyes, Rider leapt from the flying chariot, holding his weaponless hand out beneath him. "Bucephalus!" he called out. While Foreigner was busy apparently murdering his bulls for no good reason, Rider was descending on a newly-summoned charger. His sword charged with mana of the lightning attribute while mounted, and with that, he swung down. If Foreigner was not struck over the head with his blade, he would not be surprised given her earlier movements. However, he took that into account. Lightning would arc from his blade during the swing, striking the area immediately around himself and the horse, each bolt spreading outward. "Oi! Got something against cows, do ya'?"

[Apollymi]

Hopefully, they would have traps. Archer couldn't even really be upset with this potential not outcome, considering they were working together solely because their differences made it impossible for the pair to commit to proper combat. As for real questions presented by the lad she was currently partnered with, Archer had a very simple set of answers to present. "I figured the win condition would come up if we got closer to the goal of actually winning. Until then, it's a matter of strategy and survival," she said seeming to understand the basics. "I agreed for the sake of strategy. It is difficult to work alone without being amazing at base. In a straightforward combat situation I am in danger of being overpowered, unless there is fire. So... it is easy to pair up and try and whittle down the competition before committing to anything too strenuous," she mentioned simply. "Besides I am more used to working with someone than going against a slew of monster people," she finished. True enough before they got separation she and her husband were having a pretty good time of this adventure filled lifestyle.

Foreigner was acting like a Berserker in the mind of Rider? He was misinterpreting things, but he'd learn that lesson soon enough and take it with him into the afterlife. He had been aiming for fun in his fight against Berserker, meanwhile she was aiming to win. Whatever the case, her destruction of his bulls and chariots seemed to go according to plan, though much to her general discontent he summoned another steed just in the nick of time. She gave a casual eye roll as her hand rose above her head and she held onto that blade even with the lightning coming from it. Her own body was reinforced in this moment that arms tattoos glowing a bit brighter than the norm. "Dominion." A different skill use which she'd aim to enact while she had him pinned in place hanging on to his weapon above her head. What did it do? Well, any of the men across this battlefield still capable of fighting that she'd personally subdued were now slated to be under her control. They would aim to fight against Rider, injure and help take him down while Foreigner aimed to claim victory in this way. It couldn't even be said who all would swarm, she'd personally gone through quite a few men on her way to this spot, and even Berserker had technically been beaten back by her use of her other skill. Would she be able to capture him with it too? Well it didn't really matter, she could always kill that one outright by her own approximation. This veritable battle would range on...

[Bloodedge]

While two participants discussed their approach to victory, two others locked themselves in glorious combat. Much to Rider's surprise, the unarmed woman had a hand upon his sword to halt its momentum. More to his surprise, the electric current in his blade did nothing to her either. Oh. This was fine; he'd just encountered some sort of freak. It wasn't as if her passive approach to a magnificent battle was weird enough already, but alas, things would only become stranger yet from there. One word turned a collection of his own men against him. Many soldiers charged inward, though a single wave fell to no additional effort of Rider's, all within the arcs of lightning. Still, his gaze shifted about briefly to witness the dissent and fall of his own men, and he retracted his sword.

A jerk to the reigns of Rider's charger had him riding in a growing circle around Foreigner. More of his own units continued to hunt after him, while more still were forming a phalanx around Foreigner. "I'm no stranger to traitors, but this is extreme," he mused. If his army would turn against him, he would banish them all in an instant, bar the steed he rode. Even that, though, would soon be dismounted. The type of victory sought by this woman was more absolute than even his own, and perhaps unconnected to the glory of it all. In keeping with what he presumed was both of their preferences, Rider decided to face this woman directly. "I am Iskandar, the great conqueror. Who are you to be capable of taking my men?"

[Apollymi]

The discussion of tactics between one group, would become a one on one battle in another. It would seem that Rider wasn't quite prepared for his group to turn against him. He made the clever decision of getting rid of the liabilities which decreased the number of combatants down to two. This was in keeping with what Foreigner wanted. Rider even went through the trouble of introducing himself seeming to want to know exactly who she was that she had such power over his men. It was the wrong question, it wasn't simply his men she had power over, it was very individual she fought and beat. No matter, she didn't know if tales of her had spread so far, but if they had he deserved to know who he was up against. She reached forward taking into her hands a short sword which she twirled about a couple of times. "My name is Altera. If you have heard of me, you've probably heard my name pronounced wrong... you'd know me as Attila," she said. Her name in this world was Altera but everyone called her 'Attila the Hun'. She was a person who was sweeping across the continents leaving nothing but devastation in her wake. Strangely though she was in charge of the Huns she was not herself one of them. She was their leader in much the same way as she was currently leading his army.

Now she was armed, he was armed... and there was nothing left but for the fight itself. She moved forward, approaching rapidly. Her sword arm strengthened by her crest, as she aimed multiple slashes at his chest and torso. They totaled in number five and went diagonally across the large canvas. It was as if she fully intended to cut him to ribbons in a singular moment. Even if these hits were blocked they'd do bone shattering damage to most individuals. Still, so long as she avoided the use of magic, she could keep the weapon in her hand long enough to potentially slay someone, which was all she wanted.

[Bloodedge]

Rider, or rather Iskandar, had no reason to withhold his name. Did this woman in front of him have reason to hide hers? Apparently, she did not. Foreigner's true name was Altera, or as it was commonly mispronounced... Attila. There was a single question in Iskandar's mind. She couldn't have meant Attila the Hun, could she? A few seconds of thought, and suddenly, the word scourge as she spoke earlier made perfect sense. Frankly, Iskandar was a little awestricken. "No..." he muttered. Attila the Hun was an absolute legend, known to all who were... likely his descendants─ or her descendants, in this case. "Really?! Wahahahaha! What a great opportunity! Which one of us is better? We'll have to find out!"

Finding out the superior legend had become Iskandar's main objective. Her legend truly made sense of the monstrous strength she exhibited thus far. Alas, his did the same, and he would do his best to exemplify that. Each slash that came the Rider's way was met by his own natural, hulking strength and the lightning channeled through his blade. It was already obvious that he could not truly compete with the might she showcased earlier, but with a fair bit of magical output from the lightning at the start of each swing, he was managing to take enough of the brunt off. With that, their clashes occurred on equal terms, and blades clanged as they always should. Iskandar would continue swinging his blade even beyond those five parries, notably having each movement become stronger and stronger as lightning surged through the sword. The Divinity he possessed rose, and his body strengthened further still. It was his intention to break through the sword Altera was wielding, and gash her torso during this defense-turned-onslaught.

[Apollymi]

Altera introduced herself and received the strangest reaction she'd ever gotten to the information. The Scourge of God was not a being to be awed by, and definitely not worthy of jovial laughter and excitement surrounding her appearance. Her brows drew together in almost abject confusion at this particular happening, "I have never seen someone be happy to meet me," she said even as she aimed to blow him away with her physical strikes. Admittedly she'd lost just a bit of fervor, her power had dwindled the tiniest bit because he had gotten rid of the ones she had command over. Even so, her hits were well placed and though each one was blocked and the sword she used eventually broke, and Iskander pushed forward, gashing her stomach though the hit itself was more a graze than an open wound. A broken sword was practically useless and once again would be thrown this time directly into the face of the man before her so she could use her left foot to kick up another weapon, this time a spear, which seemed to change form ever so slightly before she used it to perform a series of quick stabbing motions. She aimed to push into his flesh around his guard and cause bleeding damage. These jabs were aimed at joints and tendons as if she intended to disable his physical form to capitalize upon these injuries before killing him. These jabs specifically were aimed about his shoulders, hips, knees and ankles, as if she simply wanted him incapable of defending himself.

[Bloodedge]

It was strange that Altera could not fathom his excitement. He was a warrior, and she was a legend. The chance to fight and best her was not one worth missing, so of course he would leap at the opportunity right in front of him. Few things beat the feeling of a good clash. Sparks not simply of his own sword's creation were flying, and the grin on Iskandar's face was widening each time. Managing to break that sword she was wielding felt quite satisfying, but it wasn't enough just yet. He had to wound her, to defeat her, to stand over her fallen form in wonderous victory. He felt the sensation of his blade passing through flesh. Alas, it just barely did so. What would Altera have to offer now that she was without arms? He would soon regret the fact that her next weapon of choice was a spear kicked up into her hand. Lithe and nimble as Altera was, she would prove quite dangerous with a weapon like that in close quarters.

Lo and behold, he was right. Iskandar took one step back, then half a step more as he continued to parry. Deflecting spears without a shield would always prove annoying, but each attempt on his upper body was successfully reduced to a mere graze to the arms and armor at best. This remained the case until one particular thrust pierced his left ankle. An outcry of Iskandar stretched across the battlefield, though adrenaline fueled him still. While that spear tip was still between flesh and bone, the Rider's sword swept through the air aiming to cut through the spear. Its immediate return stroke was aimed higher, horizontally slashing across the area inhabited by Foreigner's midriff. He'd gut her for managing to land a blow like that; that was his decision.

[Apollymi]

It wasn't really that strange to Altera that people were not happy to meet her. Unlike this one, most did not fathom the idea of felling her in combat. Most did not assume such a thing was possible. Most laid eyes on her and saw the destruction of their entire countries, the turning of their men, every weapon being used and tossed away as trash until the one known as Altera was finished sweeping over the land. Yes, this one's excitement was strange, but maybe it was because he entertained what Altera saw as false ideations. She would not be stopped by anyone, she would claim the holy grail, this land and everything on this continent while she was here. This was her nature, her duty and her life, as she saw it.

And what was she seeing now? The movements of Iskander, as he tried furiously to dodge which he did impeccably for his upper body but his lower body did not have the same safety. Her spear was soon lodged within his ankle and the man himself aimed to sweep through it. She did not care, the thing about being able to hold any and every weapon at length was that she had no attachment to them. The break of a weapon did not influence her fighting at all. She mustered through keeping hold of what was now a jagged spear stick and being calm and lithe enough to hop up and over the arm aiming to gash out her midsection as he moved forward. She balanced atop the arm, striking out with that jagged stick she sent multiple slaps to his face before kicking outward with her right leg, reinforced as it was, her kick would aim to jar the man further. Whether this happened she would fall towards the ground and another weapon of Altera's choice. What would she pick up, a flail.

[Bloodedge]

Another whiff. Iskandar always hated the types who buzzed about like some annoying insect. Each time he encountered such a fighter, it was always ages of attacking and attacking, until a crucial blow was landed at last. In this case, Iskandar was also in the situation of being mainly immobile. On the positive side of things, Altera's movements led her to a position atop his arm. The assault she had planned made no difference to Iskandar with that being the case, as her weight was next to nothing. An upward movement of his arm, made quick, displaced Foreigner's small frame into the air prior to her attack sequence. Iskandar couldn't move fully, nor did he need to. He was Rider. He would ride. Once more, the chariot he began with appeared beneath him again, along with the return of Rider's bulls in full health. While the Foreigner held that mace so recently acquired, the self-proclaimed "Great Iskandar" rode toward her. That lightning once present in his sword was not so limited in its accessibility. The chariot itself, and even the bulls' hooves produced powerful arcs during the charge. He'd felled many an opposing army with this simple approach. The power of lightning he utilized was invoked in the name of the son of Zeus. The ground below his chariot was torn asunder, and the sky screeched as lightning rose to form a barrier at his fore. If Foreigner could not be cut, she would be trampled by the wrath of a demigod, and he would have his shining victory over a legend that he couldn't wait to fell in glorious combat!

[Apollymi]

Iskander's tactics might have been commendable, against anyone else. This was the thought of Altera as she was atop his extended arm, she wasn't surprised to be tossed up into the air, it was only normal to protect one's face. It was also only natural to use the tools at your disposal in a fight to the death, as such she showed no surprise when the man was once again within his chariot. She didn't like the idea of him being too mobile. Even though she was the type to attack from horseback if need be, this was a tactic to stall in her own mind. Her weapon of choice was now a flail as he rode towards her and given her own inclination this weapon would prove useful. Altera didn't flinch as she was ridden towards, she had ground to hold even as it shook and shattered beneath the great chariot. Without him so close she could do something else. There was a barrier going up in front of him, lightning screeching and a prismatic glow as she drew her weapon back. "Scourge." The power of her Omega Skill would rip forth, a beam which bent along the path of the flail would aim to whip around said barrier, it would aim to use sheer destructive power to break and destroy what rode in front of her. She aimed to use this power to kill, recklessly. Would it pierce the barrier? Hit around it and knock off Rider from his horses? Would it wound properly the man before her? Well, if it didn't she would continue to press forward. Mighty though she was, even she would tire in long term combat against a demigod. How many of these blasts did she even have left to give? Though her form was perfect, every injury she took was one which slowed her, not that she would ever let it appear as such. Remaining mobile and able to channel energy was her only hope of victory and here and now she faced what had to be her most formidable foe. Forgotten were the others, her sweep was here and now. Either she hit and she did not have to worry about the coming tampling or she would be trampled and for the first time pull herself from the ground before continuing. Either option was sweet in its own way.

[Bloodedge]

Someone needed to get this woman a weapon of her own, if only to halt the variety she utilized. Here she was now, showing something entirely new by virtue of having a flail as opposed to a straight weapon. He charged forward, and she whipped around that flail while making use of the same technique which toppled Berserker. Ah, but it was in no way the same. This variant whipped about just as the flail did, yet Rider's focal point was the eyes of Foreigner already. "You run around grabbing the weapons of others to fight. Why did you sacrifice those men who joined you? Attila the Hun is a great king! The king is the one who collects the envy of all his heroes and stands as their guide; therefore, he is not alone - for his will equals that of all his followers combined!!"

What Rider gave was a speech, but it would just as quickly become an incantation accompanying him into the future. Mana swirled around him, swelling up as he charged. As for that whipping beam aiming to slip around his barrier, it would invoke a sacrifice of a different sort. Energy whipped around the barrier, hooking around to Iskandar's rear as he braced with one arm and his remaining functional leg. He had strength enough to launch himself up and forward, over the chariot and bulls a both were consumed by the enemy attack. What a shame; he would not be capable of calling upon them for quite some time. On the other hand, that energy swelling outward from Rider's body was soon to prove the difference between Berserker and himself. One commanded an army of undead loyalists, while the other called forth more legitimate comrades-in-arms. Rider could do so within the Holy Grail's bounded field because he possessed a bounded field of his own─ a Reality Marble which held his army. Never had he utilized it properly; he'd only managed summoning his soldiers on an individual basis. Now, however, his sword aimed a downward strike at Foreigner while he flew through the air. It seemed to fall just short of reaching her, but it was not for her anyway. "Ionioi Hetairoi!" Rider shouted.

A bubble swelled out from him immediately, consuming himself and Altera to create a veritable dimension around them. Around the two would be a desert battlefield with no obstacles, no weapons in sight for Altera to rely on bar what she already had, and... a distant mirage of Iskandar's entire cavalry of soldiers. These soldiers were all who personally fought alongside Iskandar as they swept across continents until reaching here. He could feel them all; few were missing from these ranks. While Iskandar landed on the ground before Altera, those mirages were charging and becoming tangible enough to act as a diverse fighting force with the fierceness of a true army. Their charge was without hesitation. They followed the heightened Charisma of Rider within this space, converging on any he deemed to be an enemy force; Altera was their sole target. Spears were thrown, arrows were loosed, phalanxes marched and horsemen rode forward. All in all, one could say Iskandar summoned an entire siege for a single enemy. Well... he viewed it as a worthwhile endeavor.

[Apollymi]

Altera found herself being lectured by Iskander. Strange, he really did not understand what she was at all. Everyone thought Altera was some great leader, who had the Huns at her back and the world to sweep before her. But, she wasn't a leader in the truest sense of the word. She wasn't charismatic. She did not care one way or another about other people. In fact, one could say she stood against everything people were. She did not like groups, wars or battles. She wasn't fighting for honor or even to take land for herself and her men. She wasn't practical or pragmatic, she simply wished to kill. Every time she saw people in front of her she had the desire to end them... to wipe everything they were from the face of the planet and leave it the way it was meant to be. It was such a different cause than all the ones she'd ever heard from other people. So much so, she was sure she could not share the information, she was certain others would not understand. She was here to fight and she would fight and if she died, well combat was the only way she wished to fall. It was an absolute truth of her that couldn't be denied. Would she bother explaining herself in this case. "I am no king. People follow because they don't have the strength to stand on their own... tools are here to be used and they will be. And when they are used up, they will be replaced," she said. Use everything at her disposal, use humans to get rid of other humans. Such a thought was practically engrained into her soul, and she would use it.

Ah, but there was a great power coming her way. Iskander jumped towards her falling short of a downward strike but creating around them another space. If she'd been cheeky there would have been some sort of commentary about being inside of a bubble, inside of another bubble, but she wasn't the sort to care about that sort of thing. This man brought forth, not an army of the undead, but his men. The ones who gave him strength, his form of 'kingliness'. She'd heard of this one, the great conquerer who swept across a continent, taking every piece of land he saw for himself, even going so far as to name each place he took after himself. There was something oddly vain about such an action, but it mattered little. Now, there was a siege before her and it was all for her. Arrows were loosed, spears flew, and everyone here deemed her the enemy. It was just as well... she was their enemy. This battle would be legendary as that flail began to spin in her hand more energy was poured into it. She'd aim to use this whip of destructive energy as both offense and defense as a horde came to overtake her. And in the end, eventually she would not have the energy left to power it. When it broke she'd go back to physically dodging abandoning the use of a broken tool as she always would. And beyond that point she'd fight until her last breath, but eventually that crest on her body couldn't empower her anymore. Eventually there'd be no tactic she could use to escape and eventually, she'd die besieged by a superior army. But it would take a whole army to down her, she'd take that as an honorable defeat.

[Bloodedge]

Alas, the honorable defeat would not be one of Altera this day. Iskandar was the great conqueror who laid claim to all land he set foot upon, and moved on to the next. In this case, he would also be conquering the honor of this battle. It was nothing new for the Rider to use his ultimate ability for the sake of summoning of cavalry. It was, however, an entirely new experience to create a Reality Marble that brought forth all of them at once. That was a costly maneuver, and he'd spent a great deal of mana across two battles already. Altera fought and fought, until her weapon had nothing left to offer, and her body was nearly in the same position. Iskandar saw victory in his immediate future, and then, it all faded away as he lost the ability to sustain Ioioi Hetairoi. His soldiers faded. The bubble around them faded. So low on energy reserves, he hardly had the strength to turn over and sit up on the ground. All he could do in the face of this, was laugh at his own inability to claim victory. "Heh heh heh. I guess we can't always have our way..." he muttered, propping himself up on his sword. It seemed almost as if the Rider intended to rise and fight again, and perhaps he was considering it. What would come of this war even if he claimed victory in this battle, though?

Meanwhile, Caster was sitting against the Grail Castle's outer wall, bored enough to try balancing his short sword atop a staff, which itself was balancing atop his forearm. None had entered this labyrinth of his from either side, and he'd long since finished setting trap runes all throughout. What the hell was going on out there? "Ugh, I thought this was a war, not a stakeout!" he griped loudly. This hardly even counted as a battle thus far, as far as action coming his way was concerned. It was all a bittersweet experience, but Caster could always keep his spirits high. "Make-out in the mist while no one's around?"

[Apollymi]

No real defeat to come? Altera was on the ground breathing deeply looking up at the sky. She was a warrior by her own nature, but what would have happened if she'd been something different? Since she'd appeared like she was in this world, she'd never had a problem conversing with others. She didn't have much to say but she was still talking. One such moment was happening right now. It appeared both she and Iskander were worse for wear post this battle, so much so that he couldn't come and actually kill her, and she was only barely mustering the necessary energy keep her body alive. "It seems not. It is a waste if one of us doesn't die soon. Still though I lost this battle I am not so foolhardy as to want to die myself," she mentioned. Maybe, finally she could sit up, they were warriors should they punch it out? She supposed they'd figure it out eventually.

At the same time, the lad known as Caster seemed to be having a problem with how slowly everything was progressing. A war and not a stakeout he claimed. Perhaps he was really just a bit too rambunctious? Well, even if he wasn't he was way too forward. His offer to Archer made her eyes widen and she managed to look completely aghast by the suggestion. "Absolutely not! I am married and faithful!" she exclaimed. This kind of situation was exactly the sort that had gotten her burned on a pyre before. Never again, she would not be questioned she was true only to her husband and no one else could have her. She was certain of this. Whatever the case, it wasn't just Caster who was growing bored of the wait.

The woman sitting in the room with the Holy Grail was still playing with that dagger across her fingers. Over and under, in and out... she moved this well balanced knife around in her fingers with a level of precision most couldn't have fathomed. It was a really well-balanced knife. She really enjoyed it, and it'd been quite a while since it wasn't on her person. She finally managed to sleep again and when she did, it was there... giving her comfort. She did not have a real explanation for that though, and if asked she'd simply explain that she liked the knife and it had nothing to do with the person who'd placed it into her hand. Speaking of things placed into her hand, this grail was an item she intended to pick up, and that would be exceedingly difficult if no one actually approached her. "Is it impatient to make sure they know where I am?" she questioned while standing. Perhaps it was, perhaps it wasn't but she pulled up her blade, canceling the magic around it, revealing a glimmering blade. Doing so, she took her proper stance holding that shining blade above her head as light began to gather around her. The other members of this war, needed to know where their prize was, and it was only honorable to let them know that she was not planning to simply let them have it, one way or another. Those glowing orbs of light coalesced into a pillar of shining light right through the top of this dilapidated castle, visible to all within the barrier of this Holy Grail War."EX-"

[Bloodedge]

"Hrmph─! You're right. I don't plan on dying either, though, so... apologies." As Iskandar spoke, he was essentially using his sword as a cane to drag his bulky form across the marred battlefield. Altera was not a woman he fancied the idea of killing. What if they could fight alongside one another instead? Neither of them were particularly noble individuals, but there were few combatants he'd come to respect; she managed to make herself one of them with today's little show. "Well... maybe it wouldn't be so bad. Here's an idea. I don't think either one of us wants that Grail for power. Whichever gets it, takes the other up top, and we fight the good fight all over the sky." Ah, what a wonderful suggestion. Sadly, a certain beacon of light would argue with either of their ability to claim the Grail. Perhaps together, even their battered forms could have taken out opponents who were otherwise equivalent or lesser. That light rising into the sky from the Grail Castle, however, was not something Iskandar imagined facing at his best. Altera's ability was bad enough, but that... was truly monstrous. "What..."

There was a fault to Iskandar's incomplete clause. Berserker had been matched by Iskandar and defeated by Altera, but it seemed he had not been felled. Iskandar offered only one word upon viewing that beam of light because there was no way for further words to leave his mouth. Berserker's return was sudden, and it was forceful. One axe coated in green flames had cleaved off his head, and another was simultaneously moving through the air en route to Altera's neck. There Berserker was, still making his way through rubble and corpses, intending to pick up his weapons after ending the two remaining lives in his path.

At that same time, Caster was experiencing the shock of... well, encountering yet another married woman in his life. "What?!" he shouted. Married and faithful was no new statement to him. He'd heard it a hundred times in just as many attempts to pick up women, usually because he shot above his age-range. In this case, Archer hardly seemed to be even the same age as him, but... she was married? "Of course you are. Shit! If I hear that one more time, I'm going to assume every woman in the world is lying to get me off their back," he groaned. Just then, his head lifted. A warmth had enshrouded him, but still no one had entered the mist. What could have leaked through? It must have been that eerie light he could see through the mist, even without utilizing the rune of sight. That was coming from within the castle. Well, he could easily confirm it wasn't his master, but... "Um... More importantly, what in the absolute fuck is that?"

[Apollymi]

So, neither of them wanted to die. It was a shame they'd already spent so much time wearing each other out. They likely could have abused some pretty effective combinations against others in this war. It even appeared that he was on the same line of thought as he dragged himself up. Altera looked at the man. She didn't want the cup for any particular reason, she wouldn't have minded allowing him to come along for the ride if she won it, it wouldn't have been a problem for her. Besides all of that, he was likely one of the only people she'd ever spoken to who didn't fall into the category of a useless tool. "That would be acceptable..." she started to say, but that light that emitted from the grail castle was one which she'd never seen before. She felt it in the core of her being, like a long fought battle won in her memory. Before she could even comment on that properly though there was an axe of green flames flying towards her, her head coming off her body in an instant with only the thought, 'I should have made sure he was down.' floating about in that head as her body fell apart.

At the same time, apparently Caster was finding out about the marriage of the young Archer. She found his musings on the matter to be kind of funny, poor lad must have had terrible luck with women if that was his standing. "I have been married for quite a while. I am fairly well blessed as an individual and my husband and I are fated people... it isn't anything so disheartening," she said of her marital status. Well, he was still pretty hurt, making the assumption women were turning him down and hiding behind marital status, while she could see doing so if the women in question thought him dangerous he didn't give off the sort of vibes that implied such falsehoods were necessary. "I don't think you should consider it so glumly. Maybe you're just really good at choosing women to like, so good in fact that someone else has already claimed her charms for themselves. You don't seem the type to be so untrustworthy as to need an excuse to escape you," she said, knowing it likely wouldn't ease his suffering at all. Ah, but that didn't matter either, she also felt rather warm at the light she could now see shining even inside of this place. It'd been what she'd been observing this entire time, though admittedly concentrated. "I did say Saber is a monster. This is about what I meant. There are also two people down, Foreigner and Rider have fallen," she commented not knowing if he was keeping track.

Ah, and at that moment there was a bitter end to what had been the start of a newly blossoming friendship. Berserker was now on the loose again, with two kills under his belt but that light was still shining in the sky. It would be just a moment, just a pure and shining moment of clarity before the phrase that was connected to it finished. "CALIBUR!!" the sword end was brought down and all that was before it, would shatter as that beam of light aimed in front of her. Through the castle wall, potentially through the misty labyrinth and all the way cross the field. It wouldn't be too surprising if Berserker was caught in the blast as the monstrous light of hope rained down upon all present. And just as quickly as it had started it was over. and Artoria was standing before the grail her sword planted in the ground once more. "There that should do for a greeting," she said as if it was a perfectly normal thing to do.

[Bloodedge]

With the fall of Rider, came the fall of Foreigner. Two of seven were downed, and soon after... Berserker's essence filled the Holy Grail as well. In the wake of Excalibur's light tearing across the land and shredding the entire territory setup around the Grail Castle, the wish-granting apparatus she stood beside became filled halfway. Bodies did not remain on those three; there were only accumulations of Mystic Codes that, when spreading through the bounded field, were converted to that golden liquid filling the Grail.

To think Caster was sitting against the remnants of a castle wall, worried about idiotic things like his woman problems. No, nothing Archer had to say actually lifted his mood. That didn't matter one bit. She was married, and that was fine. He was rejected a thousand times, and that was fine. A giant laser of hope, dreams, and moreover death for those who stood in its path was unleashed through the wall right beside where they sat... and that was anything but fine. "No," he said, trembling. According to Archer, two had fallen. By the time Caster spread his senses outward, he discovered the number was actually three. Was that something done casually? Caster's interpretation was that the beam caused all three deaths. He wasn't even sure if his master was capable of such destruction as what he only imagined was a practice swing. "Fuck this. Fuck my master. Fuck this team. Fuck that cup. I don't want any part of what I just saw," he announced. Even if Caster wanted to move from his current position, it was very likely that he couldn't do so at all.

One could move, though. The bounded field was gone, and nearly half the combatants were gone as well. Avenger still floated high in the sky, just within the limits of the bounded field. The bandage-wearing male descended slowly. He exuded a thing called Madness which spread far and wide once he decided to enter the fray. This particular variant of Madness carried the aspect of fear with it, being born of Avenger's own fear, and spreading fear to any within its wide vicinity to incite the madness deep within the living soul. Facing insanity and hallucinations were no strange occurrence to the afflicted. Normal mortals would become suicidal in moments, and those somewhat less normal would cower. Caster, already in a frightful state, would easily be the first afflicted with visions of his own dead body with his master looming over it.

[Apollymi]

Artoria's practice swing had an unintended consequence of ending the life of Berserker. Though it wasn't her intention, that one would have still been problematic long term. She gazed at her cup, half-filled and frowned. There were still others who would have to go in, it wasn't like when Gilgamesh was nearly slain, each one of the people here seemed to be on closer terms as equivalent existences. Though what she couldn't know was how her own codes would weigh in the cup and obviously she had no intention of finding out. What she did wish to know was where the rest of her opponents were and she'd be hearing the voices of two of them soon enough.

Archer had tired to calm Caster, but by the end of the showing of Saber he seemed to be too frightened to move. If she was being honest, she was too. Instead of seeing images of her own dead body she couldn't help but see her husband murdered at someone else's hands right as she found him. She fell against the wall on the other side of the hole in the walls her knees shaking and tears falling down her face. She couldn't know that this was an effect of Avenger. Instead she couldn't help but agree with Caster. "I can't actually do this. I just want my husband, I don't want him to die because of this..." she mentioned shakily. These words were heard by Artoria as she stepped towards this open wall. "Oh? there is something strange going on here," she mused as she looked at this pair. She was stepping ever so slightly forward through the hole in the wall until she could be seen by both of them. She made no real gestures but could seen in both of these individuals a fear like they could not move forward. Such a thing wasn't uncommon in those new to battle, but they didn't seem to be that, no... this seemed so much worse. They were fearful but that was strange. Did normal people not attack what made them afraid? "I will not harm you if you do not wish to fight. If there is another issue then it can be resolved at a later time..." she said carefully to the pair. Excalibur was still shining in her hand as she turned her eyes up towards the sky. "If you can not will yourself to fight, you can stand behind me. On my honor I will protect you," she said to both of these individuals. This was simply put how Artoria was, if these two didn't wish to fight, then she'd look after them. If they were too scared to move, she'd make sure they didn't have to. And so long as they didn't challenge her need for the cup, it was fine. She stood where she could be seen pointing Excalibur towards her intended target, "You, come... I would have words."

[Bloodedge]

Caster's mind had been all but wiped. What this vision of his some sort of premonition? Or, perhaps... was he seeing the truth of current events from the perspective of his own ghost? What a terrible reality, but there was no undoing it if it were true. But... what if it wasn't true at all? He didn't remember feeling anything, so this had to be some sort of vision. Premonition confirmed? Maybe. Whatever the case, he was frozen while trying to even rationalize current events. The woman classified as Saber approached and spoke to the pair, but he registered none of it during his own state of shock.

Another who did not register something, was Avenger himself. His descent continued when he was addressed. During this, there was a tilt to the male's head; it was confusing that some random girl addressed him the way she did. Two were cowering, so why was this one standing firm? Curious, curious. Avenger slouched, his long arms hooking at the elbows as he furiously scratched his own neck. It seemed to be a fearful reaction of some sort, but it was during said scratching that one fact was perhaps made clear. His head and hands were covered in bandages... but those bandages were not made of cloth. No, they were in fact Avenger's own skin torn off and used to mummify him prior to his ascension as some sort of evil god. He was confused, and confusion only made him more afraid, which in turn enhanced the madness pouring from him. Why did she not cower? Did she not understand that everything in this world was frightening? "Words. No─ no words. Grail. The Grail will fix the world. Kill yourselves; give me the Grail."

[Apollymi]

Both of the remaining people seemed to have a problem with the amount of fear coming off of the last real enemy. Artoria had no issues with this, mostly because everything she could have been afraid of had been crushed a long time before now. Of course, this didn't stop her from trying to reason with this person she was looking at and the more she stared the worse off she realized that one's situation was. He was draped in skin, he had nervous reactions and he didn't seem capable of normal people thoughts. He wanted the grail to fix the world and wanted everyone else to kill themselves to make this happen. A strange look crossed Artoria's face, she felt nothing for this man but pity, but she could not do as he asked, nor could she let anyone else do what he wished. "That grail belongs to me. On my honor it is going with me... I can do nothing to change that," she said carefully. "I am sorry, truly... Both for what has happened to you, and for not being able to offer you more solace," she offered truly apologetic. She could see he'd experienced what was likely the worst this world had to offer. She could see him in the same way she saw herself most of the time even so she could not turn over the grail, nor would she let anyone kill themselves over it.

The light from Excalibur shined even as she held that weapon and now standing between these other two and this man she was preparing to potentially have to do the worst and kill what was a man who presented themselves like frightened child. "I would prefer not to hurt a frightened child who does not wish to fight. I would help you if you would allow it, but you must stand down," she offered genuinely. She was a knight first and foremost. She did not like the idea of hurting an already wounded person, of course, she also did not like the idea of leaving him to run amok around the world inspiring fear in all around him because he was afraid. She'd put him out of his misery and take up what he was with those who created him, no one should suffer as such.

[Bloodedge]

Scratching, scratching, scratching, scratching. Avenger continued clawing at his own neck, tearing flesh and letting a strange, blackened blood leak from the wounds. The Grail was hers? No! He couldn't take something that belonged to someone else; that was too frightening a situation to deal with. No, but it couldn't be hers. He'd been brought here with the promise of a wish, if only six others died. Three were gone already, and three were standing right in front of him. All they had to do was die and free themselves from the horrors of this world, so he could free everything else. "No, you can't!" he yelled, his upper body contorting frontwards and backwards as he stood with bent knees. "Don't you see?! Everything is just. So. Terrifying. I can fix it. I'm scared, but I will fix it!"

He was beginning to freak out just a bit. With that though, his blood itself reacted to the sensation of fear. Those wounds in his neck spewed black blood, which coagulated while forming spikes extending from the wounds toward Saber and the others. They were still attached, of course, and the blood was strangely as firm as any weapon. It wasn't his intention to do battle with this woman either. He didn't want to fight; that was terrifying. He also didn't want to run away; there were a frightening number of possibilities that happened as a result. Whenever Avenger felt this way, he was at his worst. The flaps of skin used as bandaging contorted around his body while his blood did what he couldn't bring himself to do... and attacked.

[Apollymi]

Artoria watched as the man before her scratched his skin and freaked out. Of course, she only felt worse for him, but that didn't change what she would have to do here. Truly, this grail was hers, she'd claimed it already. She could not return without it, she also could not die here and now. So on all accounts this man would have to be put out of his misery. Even so, she'd done her duty to see that she tried her best not to have to harm someone whom didn't need more harm. All the while, she watched as black blood oozed from his wounds and kept an eye out for any sudden movements.

"Life can be terrifying, yes. But you can't see it be anything else if you do not try to," she mentioned. He wanted to fix it, that was commendable. Even so, she didn't think he had the right mindset to make it so. Poor poor man, he couldn't even bring himself to attack initially. So here, he is standing before her finally attacking at the last possible moment. Artoria saw that there was a blood on the move. She'd told the others that she would protect them and she had every intention of doing so. "Avalon's Sanctuary." The sheath of her sword which had been simply floating around her, moved on to protect the two who were behind her. As she moved forward. She swung her blade to keep said hardened blood from approaching her and aimed to swing with not just light but power behind the swing, mana flowed down her weapon in the form of wind based energy which would aim to disrupt that blood that came from his body. She aimed to push it further forward in a bursting wave which would knock this man backward several meters. but it wasn't just that anymore. Artoria now possessed extra magical abilities, ones which directly combated 'evil'. This could potentially have the effect of burning away that blackened blood without further harming the one it came from. "I cannot let you harm anyone and as you are, you are in no position to help anyone else... maybe next time you can manage it. Or you can tell me and I can carry it for you," Artoria stated. She was rather obviously coming to the decision that this one would need to die, but she'd rather give him a painless and fearless death if she could manage it.

[Bloodedge]

It was no lie that life could be terrifying, nor was that the whole truth. Life was terrifying. Everything was terrifying. In the state Avenger was in, he saw no positives in the world. Nothing that happened was anything but frightening. This Saber was also frightening. Trying was not something he had a mind to do, nor was refraining from trying. Why couldn't he and everyone else just die, and let their forms answer to some mysterious puppeteer. His blood did that for him, and that was something... almost comforting. "No, no harm. Only help. Help everyone, end everything. Grail. Grail will help stop everything scary," he rambled. Those black blood spikes were not cleaved through by the Saber's blade, but the burst sent forth to knock him back did manage to space the spikes around it. Still, they extended further. Even while Avenger himself was being thrown back, his blood was still working. Now was the time his skin wrapping would become involved by stretching outward and latching onto wall and rubble at multiple points. Avenger's body would be steeled, his blood javelins would angle themselves inward and assault Saber from above and each side, and further still... his hands would meet at the palms. This woman was without understanding; she required enlightenment. Nothing could exist without madness, so of course it would be his duty to focus on the insanity deep within her soul. There was no such thing as fearlessness. Somewhere, there was something that resonated with Avenger's madness, and his own sense of dread would continue calling to it directly.

Meanwhile, there was yet another entity appearing within the Holy Grail's bounded field. The Grail itself was being moved just slightly, displaced from the altar it rested upon to make room for... well, the King of Heroes' backside. He'd been watching this war all along, choosing these final moments to gaze upon Artoria's escapades with his own eyes. In doing so, King Gilgamesh thought to keep a firm grip on the cup she laid such certain claim to.

[Apollymi]

Help everyone, end everything. Those things did not compute. In Artoria's mind the end of everything would not be helpful to anyone. The only way one could justify such a thing would be seeing the world as so bad it needed to start over. She didn't know what this man had been through in his life to make him think such a thing was necessary but she wanted more than anything to give him peace. "You can not stop everything scary. You can only face the things that scare you... and give others the solace you do not have," Artoria said these words and meant them expressly. She probably wasn't the one to give advice. In fact, most people would say the Queen of Knights was inhuman in the way she addressed her own emotions overall. How did she address them? Well, we were soon to see.

As Avenger continued on, his black blood was disrupted but not properly stopped. That being said, she could note the effect of her magical outpouring on this aspect of his body. If he couldn't be reasoned with, he needed to be put down. "Holy Queen." The magical outpouring from her own body was one which could keep the black blood at bay even while she decided her course of action. There was only one way really, one victory she saw here and now. And just now he was deciding to reach for the things Artoria feared. She was unafraid of death, unafraid of life and for the most part unafraid of any given situation. Though a decade ago, she'd been given a fear she hadn't had before. One related directly to being a girl in a world of men, betrayed by one who should have been trustworthy. Artoria's hidden fear was fairly obvious, she feared for her virtues, of becoming something broken and shaken. And for just a moment, it would seem to stop her, as her hand on the hilt of her sword seemed to loosen for just a second. But... even while deathly afraid the Queen of Knights was resolute. If she feared for her body, she'd kill what made her fear. When fight or flight were the only options, she'd fight because that would give her solace. Her grip firmed, her breath exhaled and both hands met the hilt of her sword. Fire burned behind her gaze as fear, gave way to anger but just beneath that, the standard was pity. This poor thing was weaponizing emotions but he happened to choose someone who was emotionally unavailable. There wasn't enough depth to Artoria's emotions to fully wrestle one specific one out of her body. Perhaps if anger had been it, he might have managed to stop her here and now. But instead the sword rose in the sky and the light of it gathered, bolstered by her own magic and her newest skill, Holy Queen. Right that light, the light that could turn away evil, would not be in use alone. Hopes and dreams gathered in the blade of her sword as well, all the while she was waiting to crash it down as this creature made itself a rather easy target. Well, the best thing to combat fear was hope, she'd always spoken of hope and vigilance, here she was making it obvious that it was actually her stance.

"EX-" She started once more. There was only one thing she ever said in the face of things she feared. "CALIBUR!!!" A downward slash finally occurred a mix of hopes and dreams and holy light. She aimed to shatter everything this creature was and give him a death that could give him new life. If this one was so fearful so dangerous to him, maybe the next one could be better? She could try for his sake. The walls he pinned himself to would crumble beneath the weight of such a slash and even the barrier around the grail itself was in danger of breaking by virtue of this power. Still, Artoria couldn't let this being's fear infect anyone else.

[Bloodedge]

Lies. He could stop everything that caused fear. If fear could somehow not be eliminated, the only answer was for everything to choose death. If everyone understood the truth of fear, no one would resign themselves to an eternity of it for very long. Even Avenger himself lived only because... well, some would say he was too afraid to even die. As long as there was blood in his veins, he would live in this life. Previously, life was lost to him only when his heart could no longer beat... and even that was changed when new blood flowed black through his arteries.

Something about the Saber's assault was... triggering, in a way. The aura which aimed to halt his blood spikes did accomplish such, but in a very strange manner that almost seemed to enrage his blood. Worse yet was her reaction to the first fear brought forth. There were more terrors within, he was sure of it. Even so, the transition to fury in the face of fear was... infuriating. "You condemn me?" Avenger questioned. The holy light emanating from Saber's weapon was offensive to the mind of Avenger. Once more, he would be assaulted by some notion of divinity? He was once a normal child. He'd done no harm to anyone, but was subjected to torment and labeled an evil god for the salvation of others. Now, he faced something similar. Avenger was no evil individual by nature; he could even be considered akin to a messiah in the proper light. Not in this light, sadly. Regardless, those clasped hands of his produced a red and black barrier resembling the three eyes painted on the skin covering his face. Even as his hold on wall and rubble was loosed, he levitated in place against the light of Excalibur.

The beam unleashed by Saber met Avenger's barrier, its holy aspect acting to actually strengthen his power. Such was the nature of his status as Avenger. Once deemed evil by opposing forces, he only became more of the god he was purported to be long ago. A second barrier appeared behind the first, and the first subsequently shattered into hundreds of large shards. Each of said shards were angled toward Saber and launched against the beam now pushing against the replacement defense. "I. Hate you." Avenger's statements would only become more broken as his mind became the same. Those barrier shards continued through Excalibur's light with intentions of lacerating Saber from head to toe. Sadly, those behind her would be naturally unaffected... but they could surely sacrifice themselves just as he was sacrificed, no? Certainly, that would be the outcome once he ended the oppression of Saber.

All the while, King Gilgamesh continued to watch. Blinding as this little struggle ahead of him was, he did not look away. No, from here, he could see the silhouette of one Artoria Pendragon from behind. She was so perfectly placed between Excalibur's light and himself, this altar he sat upon was the perfect place from which to view her majesty. He sat there swirling the Grail's content, seeming infinitely entertained while musing to none other than himself. "Go forth, my precious queen. One must walk through hell to reach the heavens. In hell, one often finds those who should never have entered the embrace of Kur─ stains on the floor who must be swept away by far less conventional methods than even the finest broom."

[Apollymi]

Artoria was faced with a strange thing in this moment. According to the man she now fought, she was condemning him. Was that really how he saw it? The Queen of Knights was nothing, if not fair and just. She was not condemning this man, she did not know him. She only knew in a moment like this that his suffering was well beyond anything it should have been. Human life was difficult and coping with difficulties was the hardest part of being human. "No. I do not condemn you... I condemn those who made you feel this was your only option," she said honestly. In the same way she fought against those who caused her to fear for her virtues she felt anger for this man and his rather disgusting condition. No one was like this of their own accord, and if such a thing was what was chosen by him, he'd have no reason to fear it. No, fear was born of misunderstanding. And in his case, his fear seemed directly connected to whatever he was, not that she understood it completely.

A barrier broke but still it pushed against the light so it was all Artoria could do to hold it up. She'd given away her defense for a while, protecting those who could not look after themselves in the face of this fear. Well, that was her duty, her honor as a Knight. If she couldn't muster the strength to move forward in the face of such an assault, she could hardly call herself Queen, much less, Knight. So what would she do? That light pure as it was would be going nowhere, but she hardly intended to let herself be completely worn down again. In moments like this she gained clarity on actions which led her to victory and in this case, her steps said move forward. In previous times, she taken deaths unto herself for the sake of sparing others the guilt of such actions. She was the Queen of Camelot and she was not a revenge killer. She killed because it was just and right and today would be the same as any other day. Those shards that came before her, might be capable of moving through to hit her person. Her armor could protect her some, she'd gain quite a few lacerations regardless. They didn't matter. As she took up a single path the only one she could take, she stepped towards that creature, the light of her blade sharpening to a point with enough force to shatter barriers, break fortresses and break skin. If she couldn't kill him with magic from a distance, she'd close in upon him, and kill him with a blade, facing him every step of the way. Each step taking her closer and closer until she aimed to sink that shining blade directly into his person. He hated her? "It is fine to hate me. I accept this from you with honor. Go in peace towards the hope you were not allowed and I will do everything in my power to make sure none know your fear again," Artoria could be hated by any man she killed. Artoria could be hated by everyone if it meant happiness for those she cared about. Artoria had chosen to bear such a weight long before now even to her own detriment, so she'd aim to ram her sword into the heart of this man, drain and cleanse that black blood of his and send him away from the world that poisoned his life with nothing but fear. No one deserved to live like that at all.

[Bloodedge]

How hatred could be simply accepted, was a mystery. There was only one thing Avenger hated, and it was the aspect of fear itself. No... Perhaps that wasn't fully the case either. One could say he was actually afraid of fear, but being delivered something else that could function alongside it. No matter; there was a clear path to take as determined by Avenger's own body. This Saber was to be slain not as a villainous individual, but as a mercy to fears she'd yet to even realize. All would die to avoid the terrors of the world; some would merely be relieved earlier than the others. All Avenger needed was the Holy Grail.

In spite of lacerations received by the jettisoned first barrier, Saber moved forward. His second defensive maneuver had gone nowhere still, but the tip of her blade led the charge of her body. Some words were spoken by the woman moments ago... What were they? She condemned those who wronged him? They were not truly to blame, right? He was a sacrifice for the greater good of his people. The thing worth condemning was the fear he felt while succumbing to their tortures, and the hatred he felt for them during that life of pain. That hatred was born of that fear. More fear came of it, simply for the damnation he would suffer for hating his people. Those things, those feelings, should be eliminated. If not wiped out entirely, Avenger thought they should all converge on him, and him alone. Alas, there was but one thing converging upon him this day. Excalibur slammed tip-first against his barrier. His aggression could not be fully pointed at Saber while she took pity on him. When was the last time someone gazed upon this Avenger with anything but contempt? He couldn't remember once.

A fractured emotional state resulted in fluctuating energy output, which itself resulted in a fractured and penetrated barrier. That blade continued moving forward thereafter. Suddenly, its tip was visible on the opposite side of Avenger's torso. He'd been... stabbed? This was far from the first time, but there was mercy on this sword not formerly present on knives and stakes. Avenger was rather confused. He seemed strangely unfazed by even a stabbing through the heart; black blood oozed with no haste at all from either side of the stab wound. "You. You know. Nothing." What he meant would not be specified. Avenger's aura spread once more while that sword rested in his torso, as he feared death even while death's embrace was not yet open for him. Arms that looked feeble rose, strengthened only by Avenger's madness during an effort to squeeze Saber's throat. If nothing else, surely he could suffocate her. . .

Gilgamesh sat atop his altar while wearing a grimace, huffing in a very antsy manner. He could see things happening with perfect clarity now, and he could see several possibilities in the immediate future of Avenger's actions. While those arms rose, the king begrudgingly refrained from accessing a few hundred Divine Portals right then and there. This was not his war to win, but to observe with interest. Still, the current efforts of that damned Avenger were repulsive to him. "Zasshu. I did not give that disfigured cur permission to even think of touching her neck. That nape is for my use alone!" he murmured.

[Apollymi]

As Avenger decided his course of action, Saber decided another and both would progress towards their varied ends. Artoria couldn't help but pity anyone so full of fear that death of all was their only given response. Even so, even she had fears and even those would come to light as she moved inwards. Multiple lacerations wouldn't stop her. Her own blood dripping down her exposed face and neck wouldn't stop her. What would actually stop Artoria Pendragon from moving forward? Nothing.

Well that wasn't entirely the case. She had stopped because her sword had found its home. Excalibur within the chest of a man turned creature, seemed to start the process she wished to see through, but it was likely to be quite ardrous. In the meantime, he was still speaking. She knew nothing. "That is a fair summary. I do not know what you do... I can only sympathize," she offered. "And give mercy where I see fit," she finished that. Ah, but he was reaching for her now. And what did he aim to do? Close hands around her neck and choke her while exuding that madness of his. Well, it wasn't like she could let go of her sword, so... she would remain here until the job was finished. Still this one induced fear, with his very existence but it was quite different. Her sword was lodged in his torso, and black blood was oozing from him. Where he found the strength to keep attacking she didn't know but she normally could commend it. Instead of that though, she was faced with something entirely different.

The truth of Artoria's fears, were nothing as simple as those moments in her bedroom a decade prior. Fear for herself was something she only felt in singular moments, before they were eliminated. They weren't lasting. Instead, what she truly feared, what kept her from peace in the truest sense of the word was... family. Though the Queen of Knights was a responsible individual, shouldering the hopes and dreams of the entire world all the time. Most of the time, she was busy with something else entirely. She feared her family in the simplest terms, and failing them in an unrecoverable way. Not simply failure, but failure to give them the happiness she wanted for them. A failure to provide safety, life and happiness was something that bothered her deeply. It was true she was selfless enough not to care if she died, but if she did not manage to do something as simple as keep her siblings safe, make them happy and let them truly live before then. If she didn't see the smiles on faces so very different but so very similar to her own... how could she actually live with herself or even die in peace? For a moment that stretched on like eternity all stopped around the life of Artoria Pendragon, or more accurately Hoshimi Eri. For even just a few moments one might have thought her one to lose this battle, because what was her honor in the face of a failure so massive she'd never recover from it? What could she do?

A shining light. Out of the corner of her eye when her vision should have blurred, from the pressure of having one suffocate her, she saw her sword. A glimmer of its blade, even as it flowed with black blood. Right. Hope. Artoria, pushed past the fear of her own failures and rejected the idea that she could not do what she said. Hoshimi Eri could and would do anything for her family and as such, her hopes for them and their future, always overpowered her innate fears surrounding them. There could be bumps along that road, but never while she breathed would she allow those bumps to be anything but minor deterrents. Her hand tightened and her other joined it as she used her physical strength to finish driving it home. For the Avenger this was a mercy and for Artoria it was also a mercy. Perhaps she could not do right by him, but she could at least give him the hope he was so obviously missing. The rage necessary to reject that which could not stand in front of him... maybe that was a good enough lesson for the man who became a sacrifice for others without knowing fully what that meant. "EX-" she choked out before a final exhale. "CALIBUR!" she finished as the light of hope would aim to blast itself through that body. Not just deliverance from evil, but hope for the future. She'd used that to deliver the mercy of bleeding this man dry and saving the world from his depraved salvation. It was all she could offer here and now.

[Bloodedge]

Death would come through Avenger's hands. He could see the start to the bulging of Saber's eyes, and feel the constriction of her windpipe through his own fingertips. Madness was overtaking her as well; he could always feel that. Fear was so very deeply rooted in this man, he felt all of it, everywhere, from everyone. Yes, yes! She would surely give in. She would surely let herself die to take those vital steps toward a fearless world. She would... slip away, right?

Wrong. Something in those emerald orbs rejected fear rather than giving into it. Something about this one's reaction made no sense at all. Was she not afraid to even combat her fears? By the word climbing through her collapsing trachea and exiting her mouth thereafter, one could surmise that no, she was very much not afraid. How did one battle through fear using conviction? Whatever the source of opposition to Avenger's nature, that spoken word would not do well for his intentions. Saber's third beam of light in this war erupted, and regrettably, it began within Avenger's own body. Everything seemed to slow down as the phases played out.

In one moment, a sudden burst gaped Avenger's torso, leaving Excalibur floating in a large hole littered with specks of black blood. In the next moment, that light emerged and vaporized Avenger's life blood, expanding the hole and causing his grip of Saber's neck to loosen. No longer steeled by a grasp, the full formation of the beam rocketed Avenger away. Naturally, as the beam grew wider along its arc, it consumed more of Avenger. Soon enough, there was no sign of the man at all... bar the glow of Mystic Code floating into the Holy Grail held by Gilgamesh. Still grimacing as always, the King of Heroes opened a single Divine Portal beneath himself while Avenger's essence made its way. Silver ash emerged from that portal, spreading a mist with a peculiar smell in the immediate vicinity. As Spiritrons turned to liquid, part of that essence separated into dark particles that remained around Gilgamesh himself. He kept this up long enough for Avenger's portion of the Grail's content, dispersing it once the Holy Grail accepted all that was needed, and no longer pulled on the... unnecessary extra. Only a small amount remained to fill the grail; how would the Queen of Knights go about acquiring the rest?

[Apollymi]

So, just as soon as it had started, that moment in time passed and a hole was blown through the chest of Avenger. He'd die here, of this Artoria was certain and she withdrew her weapon easily as his hands slipped away from her throat. She'd gathered a decent enough number of injuries but still she would watch as this one died here and now. She still had nothing but sympathy for him. "Sincerely, I am sorry you were here. I take no joy in such a battle, but still find peace next time," she stated. There was a certain amount of earnestness in Artoria as she managed to fell this man and then she turned around. Her cup couldn't be full quite yet, the instructions had been clear she would need to feed someone else to her cup. That being said deaths were still not necessary. Those she protected simply had to surrender. And she would give them this option. "Break." Her words were calm and both Caster and Archer would be freed of their temporary stay in Avalon's protection.

And with Avalon returned as her sheath the injuries she'd maintained during her recent battle began to close up almost instantly. She walked towards Archer and extended her hand to help her up from the seat she had on the ground. "Are you alright?" she said. Truly a knight, Artoria Pendragon offered a hand to help a lady up from the ground. They should stand and talk and Archer for her part in this looked at this green eyed woman in absolute awe. There was something ever so inviting about the hand she had been offered after the protection she'd been given she took the hand and pulled herself up. "I was terrified but I am fine. I felt well protected in those moments but... I do not understand. Why did you save us, are you truly so fearless?" she asked which made Artoria's brows knit in confusion. She opened her hand in a different way towards Caster, willing to offer him a hand up as well. As far as Artoria was concerned this question was abstract. "I gave my word I would protect you. I was simply following through on that action. Even in war there are rules to be upheld. And I am not fearless by any means, I simply decided long ago that fear was more of a reason for me to act, not less." she stated as if what she'd done was truly nothing more than what she would have always done. Still she looked at both of these individuals. "Though now that you are both safe, I must ask if you intend to stand against me?" her eyes danced between these two individuals. "I will accept your surrender if you would prefer not to battle me directly. Or if you would rather fall in combat I can honor that as well," she stated. Artoria spoke in absolutes this day, there would be nothing between her and her grail, whether these two wanted to bow out gracefully or fall honorably in battle she would allow either outcome. She'd felt their presences right outside of the Grail Castle, but neither had approached her directly. She wondered if both were pacifists or if they had some kind of sinister plan. She'd face them head on if they did but, she'd give them the chance to back away with their dignity in tact.

[Bloodedge]

While within that barrier produced by Saber, Caster's fears melted away. He truly felt as if the madness had no hold on him whatsoever, and had the privilege of watching as Saber proved exactly who she was, and why she was regarded as such a monster. Simply hearing the chant of Excalibur should have been enough. Seeing it should have been enough. With those things together, there was no question in his mind about Saber's identity. Artoria Pendragon, Queen of Camelot, was her identity. All those legends had to be true after all.

Fully recovered from a traumatic experience, there was still one problem. Caster had seen a vision of his own downfall; he'd seen his master standing over his fallen body. He'd seen disappointment in that woman's eyes, and knew his desire to succeed. The choice was clear. Caster could be either a dead disappointment, or a living one; one of the two could become something greater. Artoria extended a hand to him, and he rejected it. The young man lifted himself, thinking there were only two circumstances under which he would accept a woman's hand to rise. Then... there was the ultimate question. Artoria stood under his scrutiny, a queen smaller than a mere boy, but mightier than a monster in one's nightmares. She was well-poised to a point of being indescribable, offering surrender or combat. Caster scoffed. "Falling in combat is the only way to go," he stated as a matter of his own truth─ the truth imparted to him by his mentor's own ideals. Even with that in mind, he bore only a staff, a short sword, and Rune Magic that would not be suited to combat of her caliber. He was always chided against being ignorant enough to take a losing battle. He already disliked fighting women. This one, he could fight and enjoy... but not as he was now. "I want to fight... next time." While speaking, Caster brandished his staff as if it were a thing to dislike. "I'm working my way up to a certain spear from my master. When I've got that, you're on the list of targets. Both of you."

[Apollymi]

A hand to Archer accepted as the lass was pulled to her feet. A hand to Caster rejected as a boy always would. Still, Artoria Pendragon seemed nothing but amused by this fact. She remembered being a boy of around his age, she also wouldn't have taken a hand up from anyone. In fact, she might have stood up swinging as such she had nothing but a warrior's respect to offer. Archer was given an offer of surrender or falling in combat. "Anyone who can defend two others, and then turn around and make such an offer only confirms what I thought in the first place. I cannot currently best you in combat. And I owe you my life, so I could not in good consciousness stand between you and your prize," she admitted carefully. "I do not know how to surrender though..." she added as an afterthought. "Think the creation of a copy of your mystic code and make it an offering to the grail. That will suffice," Artoria mentioned. She accepted that girl's surrender without a secondary thought. Archer would commit to this action, and soon another sip would be added to the grail.

But what of Caster? Apparently, this lad preferred to fall in combat. But not as he was currently classed. He was apparently still training and wished for a spear as his primary weapon before facing Artoria. He claimed that if he got it, both Artoria and Archer would be on his list to be challenged. A smirk came to the Queen of Knights as she respected such moxie. "Is that so?" she said with a look of absolute smug. "The climb to Camelot is about to become quite steep, but if you knock at my castle gates I would gladly face you in open combat and knock you down properly," she said on a matter of her own honor. Strangely, the Queen of Knights would take on any who came to her door in open combat and freely defeat them, of this there was certainty. "So go, and finish your training... I will be waiting." And that would be how this Holy Grail War came to an end. Artoria had stood on her honor and won. And now there was a certain happiness as she approached the cup that was her own. There was a smile on her face strange though it was, she was actually quite pleased at the end of this day.

[Bloodedge]

One sip, then two. Both Archer and Caster resigned from the third Holy Grail War of this continent, and of this world. In doing so, however, Caster had his challenge prematurely accepted. She'd knock him down if he came to challenge her in his proper element, would she? That wasn't currently a surprising concept. Alas, he would one day hold himself to being capable of defeating his master. If he could manage that, Caster was confident that he could face this beast of a woman as well. "Heh! Say all that now. I'll see you again when I'm way too badass to even look at!" he said as Saber made her way toward the grail.

How laughable. There was only one who could be called "too badass" to gaze upon directly, and it was he who invaded the bounded field to grab the Holy Grail with his own hands. King Gilgamesh waited patiently for the return of Artoria, holding a now-filled grail that was ready to act as a key. The queen was on her way. Each step took an eternity, and there he was, just waiting and waiting, with that cup held in front of him. Once her footsteps became audible, Gilgamesh spoke at last. "What a wonderful show! I must say, watching you destroy everything in your path is most titillating... Queen of Knights." His greeting was most casual, but most purposeful. He thought to congratulate her victory while the Holy Grail she earned inhabited his hand, the golden liquid within swirling about as he wafted the drinking apparatus ever so nonchalantly.

[Apollymi]

Both of the younger individuals resigned from the Holy Grail War. The last words from Caster were quite interesting, if he managed something like that she'd be terribly surprised. In the moment she committed his visage to memory and would be on the lookout for a blue-haired spearman claiming to want to fight the Queen of Knights. Whatever the case, Artoria had made a claim and followed through all the way to the end, she could rest easy on her win, but as her footsteps approached the cup she'd left, her ears were assaulted once more by a voice she'd gone without hearing in nearly a decade. Her eyes trailed over the golden majesty that was the King of Heroes and though she was immediately annoyed she couldn't quite get rid of the smile on her face. He was congratulating her? Truly?! And even now his hand was on her cup. It was quite literally her cup. Artoria Pendragon had earned this for herself and her people. Truly none could argue this point. "King of Heroes," she said giving thought to her general response. "I suppose I should accept the compliment. Though I would assume you have something more pressing to do than to watch me do what I said I was going to," she said as those green eyes of hers tracing his form. She'd just been engaged his battle and he'd enjoyed watching her fight. It was such a strange notion, an annoying notion. The King of Heroes interest in her had always been so obvious that she'd not known how to argue against it, even so... she held open her hand. As her armor was banished that empty hand, she intended to fill with her grail. "I will have what is mine, King of Heroes..."

[Bloodedge]

King of Heroes, she chanted. They only ever addressed each other with utmost formality, but the way Gilgamesh saw things, they were mere steps away from being wed. It was only fitting that a couple so magnificent as them have discussions such as the present, in which Artoria questioned the state of his duties versus his chosen activity of watching her. "You fool. This world will burn before I turn my gaze from you. There is nothing more pressing than my pursuit of a most divine life, where you are my bride," he stated. In actuality, there was much more truth to his statement than he revealed. In coming here and taking the Grail into his own hands, he stayed the corruption of the fallen Avenger. Something about that Class was sinful. Even in dying, an Avenger would take vengeance. Gilgamesh had seen multiple possibilities, some of which involved the corruption of Artoria, her Grail, or even both. The decision he made was one that would corrupt the Holy Grail's very system in all future wars... but it was worth the sacrifice to keep this woman on her chosen path for the long-haul.

A hand was outstretched, implying that Artoria wished to be granted her Grail. In response however, Gilgamesh held the object dangerously close to his own lips, smirking over its brim. "H'oh? Would that be this cup, by chance? Or would it be the King of Heroes himself?" he questioned as if to pick at her wording. "Both are yours to partake of as you see fit, of course. But I suppose, my queen must first be crowned. Surely a queen must not pour her own wine, though. Shall I offer my queen her sustenance as the birdmother does? Or perhaps..." He had another idea─ a brilliant one. Out went the cup, but not into the woman's hand. Instead, he tilted it just slightly toward her lips, nearly touching her bottom lip with the brim. "Should I offer drink from mine own hand instead? Either way, this world does not have my permission to place the proverbial crown atop your head. Only I, Gilgamesh, may have that divine privilege."

[Apollymi]

The words. The King of Heroes was just the type to open his mouth and have flowers fall out when his speech concerned the Queen of Knights. What did he say this time, to make her give him a strange look? Well, he claimed the world could burn before he'd look away from her. He also claimed that there was nothing more important to him than his pursuit of her. Annoying. "Considering some would call you king of the world, that sounds like a gross dereliction of duty, King of Heroes," Artoria stated. Still, somehow she could not actually express much distaste at his words initially. It'd been a decade since she last saw him, and she'd sworn she'd told him in no uncertain terms to leave her be, but here he was, bothering her again.

The King of Heroes was to be addressed in the most professional of tones, with nothing but formality. Even as he so shamelessly flirted with her, she was sure he was simply amused by his own actions and rather obviously pleased to see her. That was still strange to her, aside from her own people no one was ever really pleased to see her, right? What was more he chose to question whether she was after the cup or himself. He even made the outrageous claim that she could have either. "Obviously, I mean the cup. I already told you I would not have you added to my responsibilities," she said. She was sure she'd said something to that effect a while ago. Yes, this was how she was. Of course given what this man was like she figured he'd simply not heard her the first time. She was now having her cup tilted towards her own face. She couldn't pour her own wine? He wouldn't give the world permission to crown her? Well that much was obvious by the way he'd titled her before she'd even reached this point. "King of Heroes, you still have flowers pouring out of your mouth for every three seconds of speech. But I am in a good mood today, so I will allow just this one indulgence from you..." she said as she pushed at her cup in his hand. She'd take hold of said cup eventually, but she had a wish to make presently.

[Bloodedge]

"On the contrary, my wonderful queen, one should consider it an acceptance of duty. If I am to be wed to the likes of you, I must rest every now and then. How else will I make sure I am prepared for consummation?" he inquired. Of course, that wasn't all he had to say. There was a great deal of anticipation in the King of Heroes, and he was sure to make it known what his intentions were. "After all, if you are even able to walk of your own accord the next morning, the failure is mine to bear. Ensuring that failure does not occur is the ultimate duty imposed upon King Gilgamesh by himself."

Though she may have thought otherwise, Artoria was heard loud and clear in her rejection each time it came. In fact, he intently listened to everything she said, every time. That didn't mean he was going to take her naysaying at face value. The best part about the functionality of his eyes, was the fact that he could see his own idea future, and decide to pursue it. "Hmph. Indeed, you did say such a thing. Since you enjoy reminiscing so much, be sure to do so as we share moments of fleeting consciousness following a fortnight of debauchery," he insisted. Perhaps that was more of the "flowers" she spoke of. Whether it was or not, his words were never lies. Whatever the case, Artoria's lips were soon pressed against the Holy Grail, with Gilgamesh's hand tilting the object forward to pour its contents into her orifice. There would be many more indulgences; this much, he knew. For now though, he would allow her to think otherwise while she temporarily became one with the Nexus by drinking the nectar of souls. Once within that blank space, Artoria would be met by the same voice that previously addressed... four others. "Another has claimed the Holy Grail. Your case is a special one; there is no name to grant you. Queen of Knights, you already are... and thereby, you must be my Queen. What would you have of me?"

[Apollymi]

Oh, he intended to turn this around on her? Well, that was part of his ability to converse, she supposed. He claimed his need to take a break now and again was necessary as he planned to wed her. He was truly still on about that. Artoria would have almost found such devotion endearing if it was anything she could process with any level of certainty. Yes, he was being sincere she could tell this but she still found it to be strange. "Still you flirt with me..." she murmured. It'd been a decade, she figured that was more than long enough for one to give up on fanciful notions. Though, he could see the future so it was also still possible he saw one where he got his way in the end, and he was clinging to that the way children did to stuffed toys at night. It seemed like the likeliest conclusion. "Well, I am not the one to strip men of their dreams. Even when I do not understand them so long as they hurt no one else," she said, obviously she could not argue against him yet, but she could withhold her own judgements one way or the other. That was about all that could be expected of the Queen of Knights.

Did Artoria enjoy reminiscing? Well, at least a little, fond memories were all one had in a long lifetime. The ability to enjoy and recall them was about all one could wish to do. The King of Heroes flirted and she let him, while also letting him have his particular kind of indulgence. The cup of trials was emptied into her mouth and that was an interesting thing to take in. It was almost like a perfect drink where all others paled by comparison even so, she'd not be bothered too much about it, as she'd soon have this strange voice to deal with. Artoria had been warned by her sister, to be nice to this voice, and she would, though one of the first things it said within this white room was exactly the sort of thing to inspire her ire. "Oh? You acknowledge me as your Queen and ask only what I wish? I should be more annoyed by that than I am... I will blame my good mood for any lack of spite," she said while staring into the emptiness of white space. "So, if you are not granting me a title and will move my lands as I see fit regardless, does that mean I can ask other things of you and receive them instead?" Artoria's questions were strange indeed, but she needed to know exactly how much room she had to work with. Her younger sister made it sound as if this voice was not forthcoming but in the moment it seemed she could potentially get whatever she asked for, that would be interesting indeed.

[Bloodedge]

With Artoria residing in another section of reality, or perhaps another reality altogether, Gilgamesh awaited her glorious return. He still had something of hers, after all─ a few things, if one were to ask him. Ah, but her discussion was with the disembodied voice inhabiting the Nexus. None had been granted such a detail as of yet, but Artoria could indeed be granted whatever she desired. "I cannot grant that which you already possess. Sanctuary belongs to you. You are my queen, and I, your servant. For you, the goblet was only a key." The voice spoke only in deferment to Artoria Pendragon, truly meaning every word it spoke. Here, she was sovereign, unquestioned as of yet. There was supposed to be another, but... something had gone wrong after the Holy Grails were created by the one named Solomon. Strange; they were meant to function as a bridge for those who took charge of "Sanctuary". Two were meant to appear together. It had once been thought that the first winners of the Holy Grail war were, in fact, those two... but they were not the chosen. Artoria Pendragon, once seen, was believed to be one of the two. Perhaps there was another mistake? No matter; she was the one that would be answered to henceforth. "If ever it is within my power to grant your wish, it will be granted. Your gift is being shared with the world as we speak. Speak your desire, Sovereign. For you, and the first cupbearer Solomon, the Nexus shall always be fully accessible."

[Apollymi]

Artoria was standing within this space, and being given more information than any other had been so far. Sanctuary belonged to her. The Holy Grail she came to possess only functioned as a key. Those green eyes of hers narrowed. She was a bit skeptical of something calling itself her servant. It was an abnormality she did not know how to handle yet. Her arms crossed over her chest as she processed this information and with the ability to receive it, she supposed it was her duty to find out all she could and help those who would come later and those already in a position of confusion. "I have questions," Artoria mentioned with haste. "They will be answered and then based on my understanding my desires will be spoken," she explained of the current situation. She was not the type to enter into an unknown situation nor was she at all the type to rest on the idea that she was all powerful. She definitely wouldn't be sharing with anyone the idea that this voice was one which answered to her as its Sovereign that would be unnecessary information. "I should admit I do not know Solomon, first and foremost. It was my understanding that the King of Heroes has the first cup," she explained this situation as this thing may not have fully understood what it was getting into. "Are you implying that you are the Nexus? I know what that is," she said her face not seeming to shift. "What gift of mine are you sharing and how many others have you shared?" she asked giving it a bit more thought. If she was able to converse directly with what she'd known as a video game interface, she could basically take a cheat or item of her own desire into the world. Her sister had established an organization with its own power structure, which meant that Artoria could be a bit more selfish with her own desires. Perhaps she should take a couple of things and test the limits of her control?

[Bloodedge]

Questions. This voice was expecting questions each time someone appeared here, but only once had it been so inclined to answer them. The one called Solomon had been given the method of receiving his own answers, but this one would seek them directly from the source. First though, there was mention that she knew nothing of Solomon. Strange... She had the first Holy Grail's light upon her as well, in the depths of her soul and all throughout her identity as an existence. Moreover, who was this King of Heroes she spoke of? "I have not named a King of Heroes. The first goblet went to the creator, the King of Magecraft as he titled himself when constructing the keys. The second divided between the King of Kings and the Queen of Queens. The third has reached the Queen of Saints, and to you, Queen of Knights, there is the fourth. These have been the only visitors to this plane," the voice explained. "Something is strange. I am sensing the title you speak of. The King of Magecraft's key been taken? The source seems the same."

Indeed, even the Nexus knew confusion. Trying to keep the world order was enough to keep even a conscious dimension on the ropes. Ah, questions were already being presented. In spite of the need to understand matters at hand, answering the queen took precedence. "I am what you understand as the Nexus, yes. This realm, and all that it encompasses, is the Nexus. The power you have seeded into the world is the power of versatility. You possess additional abilities beyond any other, and the anomaly that creates your second core is being processed."

[Apollymi]

A frown came to the face of Artoria. The Nexus was apparently confused and had never had direct contact with the King of Heroes. The rest of the names and titles, aside from the King of Magecraft were easily recognizable. "Yes, that first one is an unknown to me," she said. "And according to you his cup has been taken..." Artoria's eyes narrowed just a bit. "It seems a bit lax for you not to interact with someone who has one of these coveted titles or cups, you are talking about, even if it was not gained by conventional means," Artoria said. Perhaps she was a bit too strict as an individual, but it still seemed a bit irresponsible. What she understood of the King of Heroes was that he wasn't a direct thief. Of course, she couldn't know it as absolute fact, she'd have to think it through a bit more. Oh well, in the meantime she needed to have her questions answered and she would sit through this portion of the conversation and keep herself calm.

Versatility. According to the Nexus this is what the rest of the world would get from her. Abilities beyond the standard. What ability did she have beyond the norm? Well, she did take the skill Holy Queen even after having what should have been her omega skill. The levels on her person were also going up, but that wasn't unique to her. "My second core? I do not understand..." she said with her brows furrowing. "So, I can ask you for skills, abilities, or items?" she asked of the voice. Of course, she was not the sort to just ask for riches or anything of the sort, but there were a few things she would want one in particular was forming into an idea within her head.

[Bloodedge]

How did she not know the King of Magecraft? There must have been some trickery behind the presumably pilfered Holy Grail of Solomon. It did make sense that his Grail was used to activate Artoria, even while he was not in possession of it. Someone who bested him in combat could have taken his possession and attributed it to themselves. "If the owner is felled, the key may be taken. However, its other owner has not appeared before me. I am currently unable to interact with one who has not utilized the key," the Nexus explained.

Mention of the queen's second core was not understood. Of course, this was a new concept brought about by her own ascension─ something fresh even to the Nexus itself. "With the Queen of Saints' appearance, the Mystic Code was granted the form of Spiritual Foundation. Within, is the Spiritual Core. These are to be understood within the world as the Saint Graph and Saint Graph Core. You have developed a second core in this form, classified: Paladin. The template has been spread to the world. It seems that even if one of your cores is damaged or made otherwise unusable, the second will sustain you." That was the Nexus' understanding of how Artoria's spirit functioned, and how others would function in future. There was yet another within her, strangely, but that was something beyond even the Nexus' ability. That one was something... primordial, or even older. "I attempted to grasp something else within you, similar in concept to these cores. That power predates me, however. Now, you may ask anything of me. Material or immaterial─ even rewriting the world, if possible, will be bestowed."

[Apollymi]

Oh? The Nexus just mentioned the idea that the owner of a Holy Grail could be bested in combat and have their grail taken. That was an interesting bit of information. Well, what she understood of Gilgamesh he may have done that, even so, this was something that would need to be addressed by those of current holding. Apparently, the Nexus was only able to interact with people who utilized the key. "I think I understand a bit better now. That is quite useful information," Artoria said. Of course, she couldn't truly figure out Gilgamesh and there were a few others she couldn't quite read completely. That was a problem she could perhaps be helped with, especially given a long term problem she'd been having even before coming here.

More of an explanation was incoming. Apparently, there was a core, granted by the coming of the Queen of Saints, had created in the world a spiritual foundation for people. Saint Graph and Saint Graph Core, were already there and Hoshimi Emi had been the one to make it so. What did Artoria add to the world, apparently a secondary classing which could be used even if she damaged her first. Her own was apparently Paladin, that made sense considering the magical nature of her extra abilities. "I see, these things all make sense I suppose..." she said. What did she want? Her inner assassin said she wanted and needed clarity, and that it needed to be something no one should know. "There is something that is part of me that you cannot touch? How very interesting," she admitted. "If you can grant me what I wish I would like something specific," she admitted. "I wish the ability to discern the true motivation of people when I look at them, but I also do not want anyone to know I have this ability," she said carefully. She looked up quizzically. "Can you provide this? And can I ask for more?"

[Bloodedge]

At last, the wish of Artoria Pendragon had been spoken. The Nexus wanted nothing but to grant its Sovereigns' wishes, as that was viewed as the truest way of repairing the world. The Nexus could grant her desire easily, and would begin the process of doing so right away. In this realm was a single light─ one that enshrouded Artoria and kickstarted a new Saint Graph Core. "Artoria Pendragon. Designation: Ruler. Ability Code Designation: Pending. Attempting to access unknown core. . . Failed." A bit of a hiccup occurred, but the limits of possibility would be stretched for Artoria's sake. "Reattempting access of unknown core. Sacrificing: Wynebgwrthucher. Gateway opened. Accessing unknown core. Routing from unknown core to produce code. Ability Code Designation: llygad y Cymraeg Ddraig: The Eye that sees all tricks, and bends all fortune." Finally. Many calculations were performed in the span of several seconds, but forcing access to Artoria's mysterious additional power source made it possible to achieve what she desired. "You have your power, defaulted to Class designation: Ruler. What more would you have of me, my Sovereign?"

[Apollymi]

Artoria asked for something, and received for her trouble, a light enshrouding her person. It would seem that the Nexus was content to immediately try and do what she asked. Strangely, it didn't seem to be possible initially but with a few more specifications it was able to give her the ability under her title of Ruler without issue. "Oh, that is amazing," she said seeming to think such a thing good. This skill was connected to her in a strange way, and thus hidden among her other skills as if it was not there. Her own hidden Dragon Origin seeming to let her have the skill she wanted without the ability for it to be read. That was precisely the sort of thing she wanted. And given the title the ability had, she could assume it would do all she needed, and she'd have time to figure it out a bit more specifically. What else would she have of this Nexus? Well, she wished to ask it one more thing. "Am I able to access you freely even after now? I am not ready to make Albion move without final preparations. I also wonder if it is possible to ask more of you as I think of tasks you can help complete," she questioned this being at the final point. She didn't imagine herself abusing the power of the Nexus, but she did wish to make sure all was in order and every Knight she wanted with her was ready to go before she left. Perhaps there could be potentially an easier method of transport between the two places, she should look into that for both the Holy Knights and herself. Since the Nexus was like a home menu maybe something like quick teleports could be installed for those with the right 'key'.

[Bloodedge]

Artoria seemed pleased with the Nexus' gift to her. Good. Of course, there was also another thing she wanted, or rather another piece of information. That could be provided. As for access to this space, it was achievable under normal circumstances only with the "Holy Grail" as people of the world had taken to calling it. Those who used one to enter this space, however, became the Nexus' chosen. It was they who possessed the ability to function as creators, and they who could go beyond even Sanctuary and Celestia. "You may or may not find difficulty reaching this space physically. However, my existence lives within you. All who are brought here by the key have become envoys who carry a piece of this realm into the world, for the sake of themselves and those they influence. Within the world, this would be referred to as the Heavenly Aspect, not unlike the ones called divinities as you know them... but more specifically a connection to this plane, and an existence greater than theirs. If it aids your understanding, the King of Kings and Queen of Queens function as their own linchpins, though one could easily route their 'divinity' into an object, a location, or an ability. Would you like your access point connected to something now, or would you rather be given a placeholder to take it from later?"

[Apollymi]

Artoria was indeed pleased with the Nexus' gift. Beyond that, the question she wanted answered would come with some interesting information. According to the Nexus itself, her and those like her, carried a piece of the Nexus with them. Their keys allowed them access and while they might not physically be capable of reaching this place they could access it with varying degrees of ease. They were in a way similar to divinities but something beyond the ones known to the regular world. That was amusing to know, given her own interactions with the world divinities. A Heavenly Aspect, beyond the simplicity of worship. Good that meant nothing as simple as worship was necessary for them. The Nexus explained that divinity could be carried in body or object or even seeded into a place. "I see, so by understanding, I can have my power issuable like the Pharaohs of Egypt, or I could connect them instead to a place or object..." she said giving it a bit of thought. If she was to be any sort of Divinity it probably was not a good idea to let it rest within herself. First because her death was imminent and secondly because Artoria did not trust herself.

Well that wasn't entirely true, Hoshimi Eri knew herself to be a killer. A person like that could become something evil and be basically unstoppable. She wouldn't lend herself to doing the sort of thing that would endanger the world in such a way. And she definitely wouldn't do something which would make her siblings have to hunt down and slay her which was about the only way she saw true death coming even in such an instance. No, she would spare others her hubris. "You can connect my Heavenly Aspect directly to the Holy Lance Rhongomyniad, I think that would be best given the situation," she said objectively. Little did Artoria know that doing such a thing was so innately her, and beyond that part of the greater good. She'd keep the rest of her powers and abilities. Her keen skill to corral and train knights and all of the like. But she did not think to set herself up with godhood at all.

[Bloodedge]

When issuing divinity, the Nexus had granted a choice to only one recipient thus far: Artoria herself. To think, she would also be the first to choose an external source for her gift. Her reasoning was sound as well; the Nexus had seen the result of those who both possessed and desired such unrivaled power while having influence over others. One who could influence the world at large could not be trusted by others, but one who did not trust themselves with the power was just what the Nexus sought. "Understood. Routing the Holy Goddess' power source to weapon: Rhongomyniad," the Nexus spoke. The Holy Spear Rhongomyniad would have the full Divine Aspect seeded into itself, accessible to its chosen wielder when actively used and integrated with. At the same time, the Nexus gained something physical from the interface. Before Artoria was her chosen lance, and behind her was a large set of doors leading to the location of her "key". The Nexus would not banish her as it did the others, but would instead allow her to leave of her own accord. First though, there would always be another question. "What else will you require?"

[Apollymi]

In the time since she'd entered the Nexus, Artoria had learned and technically done a great many things. Her last change would be to place her divinity into an object so that she could have access to it, without the ability to abuse it herself. She knew people too well, and knew herself even better. She was not a kind hearted soul nor was she pleasant people. What she wanted was to make sure she'd never be so much of a danger that she'd need curbing. She reached for her weapon soon after the Nexus spoke of the connection and in taking hold of the hilt she found it to be very different from the last time she'd held it. "Nice." she commented. So much had changed, yet so little had changed as well. With her current setting as Ruler she had a new hidden ability to abuse and a way to access the Nexus again if she needed to do so. Did she require anything else in the moment? "I do not believe I have any more immediate needs. But you will be the first to know if I do," she said carefully. If the Nexus was willing to trust her, she'd do her best not to betray that. And she turned in the moment towards that door that would lead her back to her grail and in turn back to the King of Heroes.

Artoria pushed open those doors and stepped through, finding herself back in the same place. Her eyes slowly opened and she gave a gentle exhale with her hand around the Holy Lance, Rhongomyniad. A wide grin crossed her face in the moment as she felt oddly satisfied with what she'd learned. There was a certain amount of enlightenment currently held by Artoria but she was just cautious enough that knowing it wouldn't be enough to ruin her as a person. What it would do, was help her properly acclimate everyone else. She'd given them something new, and in return she'd been given something tantamount to absolute power. She stared at the weapon in her hand and took in the changes of it. "How very fruitful," she mused. She felt like this weapon could do anything now. Always she would check he weaponry and then her eyes would flicker upwards and over to the King of Heroes.

[Bloodedge]

One might wonder where those who acquired a Holy Grail in one of these wars went when drinking from it. Gilgamesh had nary a clue, but he did know they all returned eventually. Artoria took far longer to do so than her sister did one decade prior, or perhaps that was simply his state of impatience making him think so. No matter; the Nexus' light eventually shone once more, giving way to the queen's radiance for Gilgamesh to set his sights on. What perfect timing, he thought. By the time Artoria returned, he sat next to a golden jug of what he christened as "King's Wine" based on the belief that only a true king was worthy to drink it. Artoria's Holy Grail had been filled with that wine during her absence, and the same could be said of another Grail that... seemed to have never been emptied of its power. What a funny thing; Gilgamesh realized he'd been in possession of a Holy Grail for years upon years. In his time, however, it was referred to by a different name entirely. What a day he had when realizing that entire war was fought for no reason whatsoever.

Artoria's return occurred as she brandished a lance he'd yet to see her with. No. No, he'd seen that light without a doubt. In all but physique, the grinning Artoria resembled the vision he once had in the most perfect way conceivable. If he ever had doubts, they would have been crushed the moment he gazed upon her. She looked as he did, radiating a divinity and brilliance unreachable by even gods, even others who possessed the Holy Grail. That alone... was absolutely thrilling. "H'oh. I should have been warned that you would return with an effulgence that somehow stirs the loins with greater vigor than before. You seemed to enjoy the finest wine available in this world, so I took the liberty of refilling this empty mug of yours. Come. Before the inevitable celebration of your rise, I would share a drink with my future queen."

[Apollymi]

Artoria had returned, and she was somehow less than surprised to find Gilgamesh still waiting. The King of Heroes was still a strange individual, but the moment of her arrival had dictated an utterance which made the blonde lass stare at him strangely. This was another of those strange moments, where out of his mouth came the petals of sweet scented flowers. He was flirting so very forwardly but that wasn't all. Her new ability was something she could use actively with just the shift of her gaze, and with those green eyes of hers upon him she found no deceit. These things he said... here and now he honestly meant them. 'He truly is not jesting or using his words to rouse. Who actually speaks with this level of frankness?' Artoria all but questioned aloud this man's words. "The voice beyond the light could not change me in the ways of its conventions. Do I truly appear different?" she asked. She might considering Rhongomyniad being on her person presently but that was not truly important. But what was this, he was offering a drink. She supposed she'd just won a Holy Grail, she might as well enjoy a drink, especially if he simply wanted to share one with her. "I must be going mad to allow such a secondary indulgence this day," she said heaving a slight sigh. "Fine, a drink, but I still have agreed to no such thing as being your queen, King of Heroes," she stated as she reached for her filled cup. Once upon a time she'd been told she didn't understand the hearts of men. She'd aimed to be a bit more empathetic and now she could see those same intentions clearly without the inbuilt skepticism of her own former training to get in the way. She was almost astounded by this man's sincerety.

The cup she'd found was a key. The Key led to the Nexus, and the Nexus led to a power beyond the paltry status of 'divinity' as it applied to even gods in this world. How very strange. "Celebration is not inevitable. I would want no such thing..." she added quickly. How could she justify celebrating anything after she'd made the claim she would take a grail. Such hubris shouldn't be rewarded, she had only just managed to maintain herself. Her country would rise yes, but she felt no need to celebrate further than this drink this afternoon. Besides all of that she hated being the center of attention and there was no doubt she would be if such a thing happened. For one who ruled, Artoria was surprisingly modest. Still, she was in a rather good mood at the moment, she could allow the King of Heroes a bit of fun before he returned to work.

[Bloodedge]

"H'oh?" the king murmured as that goblet transferred into Artoria's hand. She knew not whether she appeared different, but there was nothing more clear to him. The Queen of Knights was shrouded in the light of divinity, most of it radiating off that lance in her hand. "It is no surprise that you could not be altered. How does one improve upon perfection, other than simply polishing it? I must admit, it is a very decent polishing you've received... though the one I perform will certainly be more thorough."

With yet another ridiculous declaration, Gilgamesh tapped his own wine-filled grail against Artoria's. True enough, she had not agreed to be his queen... "Yet." She would do so eventually. The wheel of fate turned, and Gilgamesh would ensure it turned in his favor. Even an act so pompous as destroying all alternate paths that she might take, was not beyond him and his desire to have her led into his midst. Now then, what was this about celebration not being inevitable? Poppycock! It didn't matter whether she wanted it or not. "A hamstrung monkey could presume that you do not want for celebration, Queen of Knights. However, it is my divine right as your king and husband to give you everything you desire, even when you don't desire it. I've already taken the liberty of informing the masses of your ascension; the reception of your victory will proceed at the sound of a bell, heralding in the knights, the pharaohs, the wise men, and indeed even the drudges to bask in your radiance!" With that said, Gilgamesh's grail was pressed to his lips for a hefty swig. Several gulps later, he turned it down and sighed wine-stained breath to the open air... looking no less satisfied than ever as he continued. "The Holy Maiden herself seemed especially keen to the idea. That woman has a good head on her shoulders."

[Apollymi]

More flowery words from the King of Heroes. This set was so frank she had to look away from him while sipping from her cup. What had she done to deserve this fresh hell? Was it pay back from the universe from all those slayings. Was now even her dignity to be slain by some man who simply could not keep his mouth shut about matters which had no business being spoken. "I can not even question the things you say King of Heroes, or risk falling into some strained trap. I have done nothing to deserve this..." she said. She almost seemed to take it as a punishment. But that wasn't it entirely. Though she was quite good at what she did, the Queen of Knights did not see herself in the light other people did. The words of the King of Heroes always seemed to hit her ears, translate in her mind and present in their stead a semblance of emotion she could only recognize as annoyance.

Yet. A scoff escaped the Queen of Knights as she sipped from her cup. "That word is why those who have sight beyond mortal means cause me nothing but annoyance," she said accusingly. Of course, this wasn't entirely Gilgamesh's fault. Fault lied with all those who had used such words on her, building such intolerance with the annoyance of knowing the future. What was more he claimed this party would be happening. That all were invited and had been informed of her impending victory. He knew for a fact she was uninterested in such things, but put it together anyway as part of his rights as her future husband and king. The frown on Artoria's face deepened. "If you know I do not like them, putting together a celebration is completely unnecessary," she exclaimed. Still she looked at the man over the rim of her cup. He was so serious. He truly thought she deserved such a celebration that people should look on her and bask in her victory with her. Ugh, it was high school sports all over again. Truly the Queen of Knights hated being the center of attention in such a way, it always made her feel awkward. And what was this, the mention of the Queen of Saints being keen on the idea of celebrating. Another scoff would occur. "Of fucking course she would agree to it. It is all fun and games with that one. It is always, I'm a Saint not a Nun! and the next thing you know you are drunk in a bath playing 'never have I ever' with a wine-maker and drinking so much you cannot see straight!" Artoria was outraged. Of course, this would always be the case, strangely though, the lass would do anything for her younger sister. Even put up with the idea of a celebration where she was centerpiece because it would make her happy. "Do not tell her I said that," she followed up, the last thing she wanted was to be chided for swearing once again by her younger sister. "I am not mentally prepared for this, another drink," she said holding that empty cup out to be filled again. If she was going to be required to attend such an event, she might as well have one more before her arrival, lest she fall immediately to cornering embarrassment.

[Bloodedge]

Trap? King Gilgamesh did not lay traps, nor did he mislead. Prideful as he was, every word from his mouth was nothing short of his true intention. He walked the path he chose, and he demanded that the world itself follow suit in the wake of his glory. "That you were born Hoshimi Eri, is sufficient enough. You will receive all that you deserve, which is all that exists," he said with the very same candidness one would use when stating "the sky is blue." As a forge master at work, Gilgamesh would temper the steel of reality around himself, shaping it into the arrowhead of Nanaya with which to pierce Artoria's maiden heart. This was the decision of Gilgamesh, and would therefore be the law of reality.

Artoria spoke of sight beyond mortal means, and Gilgamesh thought it ironic that she would do so. Could she truly claim such a thing while under his scrutiny, mere moments after visiting the Nexus? Certainly, she had little ground to stand on. "Do you proclaim to be annoyed by yourself? You lost the ability to see as mortals do sometime after leaving my sight. Welsh Dragon, is it?" he questioned. As unnatural sight was concerned, Artoria was officially counted among few who possessed such a thing. Hidden though it was, nothing could avoid his gaze. Moving right along though, an interesting amount of outrage would soon fall from those perfectly-sculpted lips─ a full tirade about the nature of one Jeanne d'Arc. It was a rather flavorful complaint, ending in a plea to refrain from telling the saint about it. "Fuhaha! And what, avoid having her know that the tongue of her dear sister possesses bronze beneath the silver lining? Hmph. Worry not. My silence will be remuneration for the mental image of you, flushed and befuddled from Siduri's wine. Here; take another step toward that eventuality." As per her request, and his own desire to see her reach a drunken stupor, Gilgamesh took up that golden jug and filled her grail until it began to overflow. He would finish drinking from his own while doing so, only to follow by refilling it as well.

[Apollymi]

Artoria had a hand over her face again. Truly this man would say anything he wished and mean it absolutely. That she was born herself was reason enough for him to do anything he did. Not even as Artoria Pendragon, but as Hoshimi Eri. "I am certain we have two very different ideas about my nature..." she said not even realizing how very pink her cheeks were at a moment like this. Hoshimi Eri was an assassin, she was a murderer who killed simply because she was paid to do so. She was not a pleasant person nor a deserving person. Artoria Pendragon was similar, a killer who murdered but at least her skills were being used implicitly for good, with the mantle of Chivalry to give others a fighting chance against her. "But you are so very certain about what you say, I find it bothersome to consider," she offered honestly. Gilgamesh was such a strange man to her, she was certain he was truthful but also very sure he could not fully understand why she was the way she was. Why wouldn't he just accept being talked out of his ideations about her, all could be well if he would simply accept it.

Oh well, she did not have time to argue the finer points of her existence with the King of Heroes. Or rather, her original existence. Right at the moment they were discussing her distaste for the clairvoyant and her apparent hypocrisy. She'd wondered if such a thing could truly escape his sight, she'd asked for it to be hidden but it wasn't him she was hiding her new found sight from. Instead it was the others who made her wary even just a tad who made her wish for an unknown skill. Some habits die hard and that one wasn't going anywhere. "First and foremost no one bothers me more than me," she said as a declaration of absolute fact, she was no liar after all. "Second, my sight is not something so fanciful as what I find truly annoying. Since I could not be given title as the norm, I took instead a tool for the sake of clarity in the here and now. About the Welsh Dragon though, it is something clear in even my birth though none truly understand it. There is nothing to be so concerned about," she said calmly. Her cup was filled almost to the point of overflow and she'd take it up to her lips once more and sip it down to more reasonable levels. As for her desire to have her younger sister not know about her swearing it seemed that the King of Heroes was agreeable to the situation, though he found humor in what she wished. "I was not in any position to be a good person to start with, then raised on a farm and then this... it is not normal to change so completely with every shift in life. The Queen of Saints can be a slave-driver about her sticking points my use of colorful language has always been one of them. She is our pride and joy though so, for her sake, I do try," she said gently. At a point halfway through this cup she had found herself speaking to the King of Heroes with the same calmness she'd had more than a decade ago. She did not understand this at all. If she thought she could get away with it, she'd probably just have disappeared into the armory or her barn. Care for horses and weapons in a quiet evening, instead of anything like a party. She'd finish that drink and take a deep breath clutching both Rhongomyniad and the cup of her victory. Shoulders back, disposition shifted, it was like watching her become a completely different person over the course of a few seconds, as she shifted to what she should be for such a thing as a victory celebration, such was her nature. Hoshimi Eri was so rarely herself she couldn't even be sure who that person was... or if they even existed to start with... but that was a problem for a different time.

[Bloodedge]

Oh, Hoshimi Eri existed alright. In a previous life, there was no human more worth having one's eye on, even for the King of Heroes as he observed the memory of her existence. Everything from strength to flaw was perfection incarnate. He'd spend the rest of eternity watching her destroy everything including herself, and he'd relish in the desolation that followed. As for her being "good" as she put it, well... that was a totally subjective matter. "Hmph. You continued to speak of yourself as if you could ever be so low. No matter; I will allow you to batter even yourself. I will consider it a privilege to reassemble the pieces of your broken soul, and I will proceed to... break the body, so to speak." A bit of cheek would never be absent from Gilgamesh. In fact, Artoria would have to become used to such statements occurring between sips of wine; there was much of it to be found in her future.

Also in her future, was the greatest celebration this world had seen thus far. The assembly should have started already, even of the knights she commanded on this level of the world. Perhaps she would ascend Albion right away; most routes saw it remain in place for a time. Whichever path she took, it was Jeanne's privilege to assemble the knights, the pharaohs' duty to assemble the venue, and Gilgamesh's right to collect the guest of honor. Downing another grail of wine, he considered that it was time to move forward. "Now then, shall we make our way? Or, would you instead prefer discovering how intoxicated you can become in my presence while still resisting me?"

[Apollymi]

Gilgamesh spoke and once more his words hit her ears. She processed them and even understood them as what they were, but overall they just sounded to her like flowers smelled, sweet, fragrant and fleeting. Only, in looking at him, she had an absolute clarity that he was not speaking just to do so. He fully meant the words he spoke, even with their sassy flirtation at the end. "You continue to flirt with me... it is like you cannot help it. I truly will never understand this," she muttered in the moment. Even knowing he was being absolutely serious and sincere how was she supposed to react. Her training never prepared her for this, not with any intention of it not just being a means to the end of a life.

Ah, but such things were already in motion. And after drinking the contents of another grail of wine, it would appear it was about time for them to leave. Where would they be going? Well, she did not know, but she could assume this was the sort of thing people planned ahead of time. Annoyed though she might have been, she could be happy to see her sister and the Pharaohs at least. "We can go, but do not mistake me, King of Heroes. Even drunk I could slay an entire army by myself... nothing will get in the way of my stance," she said succinctly. She really needed to drive home the idea that this man was not going to get his way. She was not flirting with him as far as she was concerned either. No, this was the absolute truth of the matter as far as she knew it.

[Bloodedge]

Sadly, what Artoria knew was truth only for the moment, and only in some imaginary world where Gilgamesh was not king. In the real world they lived in, he was sovereign to all. In the real world, he would certainly have his way. In the real world, he knew for a fact that she would accept him and reciprocate interest in due time. Artoria chose lying to herself over embracing the truth of their future together, but that was fine for now. "Save the slaying of armies for later, Queen of Knights. When you choose to express your drunkenness in such a way, I will be there to witness your every graceful movement, and ensure that the aftermath is filled with pampering and debauchery. For now, there is are festivities to attend!"

Fully prepared to depart, the only thing left to decide was how they would be making the journey. Stylishly was, of course, the only true answer... but there would be much more to it than that. Gilgamesh swaggered his way up to the queen, hooking his free arm around her waste to drag her into his clutches. It would be in that same moment that he summoned the golden ark, Vimana, beneath himself. Gilgamesh would be immediately sat upon the throne of Vimana, ideally having pulled Artoria into his lap. A seat upon his groin was her just desserts, he thought. "Now, let us go!" the king announced. Vimana would respond immediately by taking flight into the sky, not at its previous speed of thought, but at a pace he considered viable for a more... scenic route toward Chaldea.

[Apollymi]

Gilgamesh spoke again and confusion played across the face of the Queen of Knights. Why was he like this? People were not supposed to be okay with the level of violence she offered to dish out. There was nothing alright with the way the King of Heroes acted around her. "You realize it is mad to offer pampering in the aftermath of violence, right? The rules of civility have not changed. Why does nothing make sense anymore?!" she asked of this man. Of course, she knew he would be this way all the time, that given the quality of his speech he meant his words and would in no way be talked out of it. But why? It was almost incomprehensible.

Whatever. It was fine. Artoria could recover from this. She could enjoy her few sips of wine, and prepare herself for an evening she didn't at all want in her honor. She'd let Gilgamesh accompany her even though she did not ask him to, and all would be well. No. No it wouldn't be. This man swaggered over to her, and she found herself hooked and dragged into his lap. They were rather instantly moving but she was so beyond shocked by the casual way he'd grabbed her she couldn't really do anything about it. Even her hands were currently full between Rhongomyniad and the Holy Grail. And where was she sitting now? Within his lap. No. Absolutely not. "Unhand me, King of Heroes!" She demanded. How dare he put her into such an embarrassing position. She was not a child she didn't need this sort of assistance. It almost seemed lost upon her why one would sit an adult woman in their laps. All she wanted now was out of this rather childish position.

[Bloodedge]

"Hmph. Is it madness, or is it sensible? Felling an army can be mentally and physically tiresome, whether one is capable of it or not. For you to do so, you must be properly treated afterwards," he countered. There was no madness in pampering after the violent massacre of hundreds, even thousands. Such a thing should be the norm, as far as he was concerned. "Besides, it would be a waste of alcohol for you to do anything but relax under my care after whatever you choose to do."

Once they took to the sky, Artoria had but one demand: for Gilgamesh to unhand her. In the following moment, Gilgamesh had nothing but laughter to offer. Seconds of this passed before the slyest of gazes fell upon her. He leaned in, speaking only when the distance between their faces became something dangerous. He was grinning from ear to ear, wine on his breath, a glimmer in his eye, and his arm holding the queen more firmly against him. Why had she demanded releasing, he wondered. Was it embarrassment? Perhaps she felt his groin beneath her thigh, and feared the sensation of it? No, he doubted it would be anything so glorious. Either way... "Why would I even think to do something like that? Once something has been regarded as treasure, it is mine to claim. Once I have determined that a treasure is more valuable than any other, I will embrace it with all I have, letting it from neither sight nor clutches for the rest of time. Even you, the treasure I have chosen, do not have the power to stop me."

[Apollymi]

Sensible. According to the King of Heroes, it was sensible to relax after felling an entire army because it could be both mentally and physically stressful. "I would call felling an army fun..." Artoria countered. Something about that wasn't truly strange to her. She did actually enjoy fighting, killing and in general having a proper outlet for her obviously violent personality. Why anyone thought relaxing afterward was necessary when it was relaxing to do the thing in the first place? Regardless it seemed it would be a waste of alcohol for her not to relax while in his care. "I feel like several assumptions are being made here that I do not like," she said giving it a bit more thought than normal. Why would she want to be in his care? She was a sovereign unto herself, why did she need to be cared for? Why was he still being honest in saying words like this? Her head would hurt if she thought about it too much.

Luckily, or rather unluckily enough she wouldn't be granted much time to consider philosophy. No. Instead she was having an entire fit in the lap of the King of Heroes. Why was she here? Well because he wanted her to be, but there were so many problems. Not the least of which was the fact that after she demanded to be let go, he simply held her tighter in place. Strangely enough she did not feel fearful of him, instead she was cross about his closeness. Leave it to him, to capitalize upon this and move closer a sly grin on his face as she spoke to her from a distance most would never consider reaching. And what did he have to say for himself? She was treasure with value indeterminable so he had claimed her. She couldn't force him to relinquish her, from his sights nor his clutches? Her entire face was a brilliant shade of red. He was still being honest. Maybe one day, she wouldn't be surprised by the fact that he wasn't lying to her about his feelings, but here and now she was both surprised and embarrassed. She couldn't refute any of his points, but she could not sit within his lap happily. "Be that as it may, it is wildly inappropriate and exceedingly embarrassing to be an adult sitting in someone's lap. Release me, immediately!" Maybe one day, she'd notice she didn't actually mind being within such a space at all, but right now she really wanted both of her feet to be on solid ground and as much physical space as she could put between herself and the King of Heroes. And given the current items within her hands, she hadn't even tried to attack him, perhaps she'd notice that one day as well...

[Bloodedge]

She found fun in combat, even against armies. Of course she did; that much should have been apparent all along. The two of them shared a love of battle, but therein lied the difference. In his experience, to fell an army was nothing more than pest control, where the only thing "fun" was the celebration of yet another glorious victory. Nevertheless, there was not a single assumption being made by the King of Heroes. He stated only the facts, even though they were not factual just yet. No matter. Artoria still desired release from his grasp. This was inappropriate, was it? "And what do you know of propriety? Where does my woman belong, if not in my lap? Abrasive as you are, one would naturally presume you desire such a position."

Only a moment of thought followed Gilgamesh's statement. Following that, he snickered. If it was not his lap she desired, he could easily acquiesce in a different way. "Or shall I take my place atop you, instead? I would gladly do so," he declared. Despite her insistence, he had not yet released her. He even banished his own grail to the treasury, placing that freed hand against the opposite side of her face. If he had a mind to, he would tilt her head and taste of her lips then and there, but... no. Perhaps he would actually wait until her desire was clear. Perhaps he wouldn't. Either way, he needn't rush that which was a certainty. "Besides, look at you. How could I possibly let you go, when the alternative is enjoying the look on your face when it is tinted red with bashfulness? The most hilarious jester and the most melodious bard could not put together a show so entertaining as this."

[Apollymi]

Gilgamesh saw army clearing as pest control, Artoria came to realize in their previous conversation that the King of Heroes took his joy of combat seriously. That was to say, he seemed to enjoy the challenge of combat not just the action of it. Artoria, or rather Hoshimi Eri enjoyed killing while also enjoying the reactions of those whom she would fell. How strong they were, only mattered for her honor, for her fun, she needed only to experience something different than the reaction she expected. Ah, but she wouldn't get to keep that little happiness. Of course, he claimed his woman belonged in his lap and that her own attitude would imply she wished to be there. "Nothing in my attitude implies any such thing. Especially when I have spoken to the contrary!" The King of Heroes statements were far too loaded for the mind of the Queen of Knights.

Oh. This was a sexual thing. Why was this a sexual thing?! "You know that is not what I meant at all!" Her face couldn't have been redder if she'd actually managed to get drunk before this little outing. Why did he always manage to do this to her. Every time she was in his company, she was made distinctly aware of the fact that he knew she was a girl and saw her as such. Even now, there was a soft hand upon her face. He'd done this before, and she'd not known how to respond then either. Her eyes simply widened well past the normal stoicism she managed for every other aspect of her life. Who was she supposed to be when he acted like this? How was she supposed to act? There was nothing in either of her lifetimes worth of training for this level of impropriety. "No one asked you to enjoy embarrassing me, King of Heroes!" Artoria was at a loss, she generally was whenever she was in conversation with the King of Heroes in moments like these. Why did he cause her to react so strangely? She could hardly recognize her own attitude when she was in a moment like this. Looking at him from this distance with her face so red how was she supposed to feel? Why would she have wanted to be in his lap, what about her personality implied she would like that? What difference would position make to sex? She didn't know enough about any of this to understand the point. Why was he interested in her when it was so obvious she could not understand his points? The Queen of Knights would spend so much of her time confused by this man she was unsure of how to become less confused.

[Bloodedge]

"H'oh? Anyone with a mind for pleasure would say otherwise. But, that is fine. It does please me to take my place above you, rather than below. My experience will guide us both to the heavens and beyond, I assure you~" he proclaimed with absolute certainty, just as he did with everything else. Artoria's behavior was simply hilarious; he could hardly stop laughing at this point. "Fufuhahahaha! You needn't be shy. Look at you, a divine queen reduced to this! Save some blood for the rest of you, Queen of Knights. You will especially need some for your legs when you decide to lock me in place because you cannot bear the idea of me stopping. Ah, yes... the day you receive my heirs will be a wonderous one."

If it was not yet clear how certain of himself the King of Heroes was, more clarity would undoubtedly be provided as time passed. Just now, he could almost feel her cheek against his lips, while both of their lips were just nearly meeting at the corner. To Artoria's credit, she had yet to actually shy away from him. He could almost let that be interpreted as interest, but the time had not come for her to understand why they were destined to be. "And no one gave you permission to believe I do not enjoy every aspect of your existence, Queen of Knights. You should never let yourself be so foolish as to think otherwise. Just look─ here you are, admitting that a few honeyed words are enough to fluster the impassive Lady King of Camelot. What will truly come of our loins intertwining, I wonder." Indeed, he did wonder. Why, though? Well... he would also be revealing that. "Hmph. I dare not even spoil the surprise for myself. It is only with a king's restraint that I can refrain from tasting the wine presently coloring your lips. Why do you not flee from such an eventuality? That is also a curiosity."

[Apollymi]

Gilgamesh kept talking and Artoria couldn't help but have her eyes widen more. What were these sentences coming out of his mouth? Was it meant to be comforting that he could take charge? Did women find that comforting? "These words are language. They are put together in a way that I understand their meaning, but I do not understand them at all..." the Queen of Knights was beyond aghast. Only Gilgamesh had ever managed to confuse her in such a way and he probably would have no idea why she had so much confusion surrounding how to deal with him. Her own mind was set up in such a way that she had a set way of dealing with every situation. But no one had ever told her she'd have to deal with this man being this way... she had no preset way of dealing with his advances, and now understanding exactly how sincere they were, she was even less prepared than she had been initially.

The King of Heroes was quite right, she was a divine queen being reduced to a bumbling mess of a maiden girl by words alone. She hadn't even the presence of mind to pull away. But that wasn't really a negative thing at all. She simply wasn't the type to back away in a fight or flight kind of situation. She couldn't bring herself to fight either because she wasn't sure the level of violence needed for this situation. Her life had gained a level of confusion she wasn't entirely certain how to deal with. Even now, according to this man he hadn't bothered to properly look into the future to see what would come of their union though he had an idea it would be happening. He wanted to be surprised by the information. "What? How the hell do you justify having clairvoyance not to use it for the sake avoiding spoilers?! All of you people with it for future sight are odd, and I refuse to believe otherwise," she exclaimed completely unsure of how to proceed. As for why she didn't bother pulling away the answer to that was rather simple and yet still complicated. "I am not inclined to fleeing even when I lack clarity. I am confused but I do not find you to be innately dangerous to me so I am uncertain how to proceed." Artoria's words were long winded but they did have purpose, she did not completely understand her thoughts about the King of Heroes. "You annoy me, but I have been told I use that word for things I cannot currently verbalize. I do not dislike you... but I have no preset understanding of how to deal with you," Artoria's words explained much about herself and also very little. She was in her previous life, an assassin one without ego. Her own personality had been long since lost, she had different methods of dealing with people. Faces and facets she showed when necessary. She knew the face of the Queen of Camelot. She knew the face of doting big sister Eri, she knew the face of the warrior-queen who stood between innocents and danger. She had no face to understand how she felt about the King of Heroes. "I need guidance, I would have words with my sister!"

[Bloodedge]

Language? Yes, Gilgamesh's words were indeed a very special language. The language of love, however, was not one to be understood by the stoic Knight-Queen of Camelot. Again, that was fine. As if teaching a child, he would continue speaking the words until the words themselves, and their context, was understood and regurgitated. And, just as his golden capital was used to launch an array of treasures in the likeness of machine fire, he would continue freely throwing every ounce of his adoration at this wonderful woman until it made her crumble.

What of his clairvoyant ability? Only one who knew, could truly know, in a manner of speaking. He could not simply look into the future for everything. "It is not the future these eyes see. What I see beyond all present truths in this world, is the endless web of possibilities ahead. It is my preferred path that sets in motion the events of mongrels who inherit a semblance of my gift," he stated. He'd seen her standing before him in garments one such as herself could have only received from him. He'd seen an impossible woman standing there, waiting to receive all that he had to offer, and decided... all other futures were forfeit. It was a matter so simple to him, he could even consider all other possibilities as hogwash. In fact, it seemed as easy as Artoria herself making the decision to avoid fleeing from their current proximity. He was not a danger to her? To her sanctity, perhaps, but to nothing else. He was annoying to her? What else could a spouse be? She did not dislike him? Soon enough, she would love him. All of these things were clear not even in his eyes, but in his mind. Now, she sought the council of her sister. How laughable. "She will be there for the festivities. Did you think I would not rouse your every associate and relative to bask in victory at your side?" he asked. When Gilgamesh claimed he had brought everyone along, he did mean everyone. As they reached the upper limits of the world, entering Finis Chaldea and approaching the floating island prepared specifically for this event, he scoffed at the idea of doing anything less. Of course, scoffing wasn't all he had to do. "So then, since you will not flee, shall you fight? My future queen is more than welcome to attack my lips with her own, if she is feeling so bold~"

[Apollymi]

Good good. Artoria would get a moment or two of reprieve while the King of Heroes explained the nature of his clairvoyance. According to him, he saw the possibilities of the future, and the ones he chose were the ones that went forward. Everyone else who had use of the ability got to see what he decided upon. To Artoria there was only one way to respond to that information, "That sounds so unnecessary and uncommonly stressful," she said. Then again, she was already having a hard time, just knowing how luck and deceit were bent around her, so it made sense that she took issue with this as an ability. What else was there, the matter of her sister, according to the King of Heroes her sister would be there at the celebration. He'd roused all her friends and associates to share in her victory? "Really?!" she questioned as if astonished. She wasn't speaking after all of the Queen of Saints, she was speaking of her elder sister, the errant lake fairy. "You know which one I mean..." she seemed confused by that. Of course, with the apparent level of his clairvoyance it was less surprising but still no less extravagant as an idea.

Moving right along, he was still dangerously close to her face. According to him, if she would not flee she was free to attack his lips instead. If she was feeling so bold. She had to think about that, "I do not know if I should..." she said giving it thought. This was another moment of needed guidance. Well she was already talking so perhaps she'd avoid being completely dishonest, "I have not kissed anyone in this body. And before that I only gave forehead kisses to Emi or well, the sort that are used for the sake of lowering the guard of a target on a job," she said. Ah that was it, Artoria or rather Hoshimi Eri, didn't know what to do with emotions that were genuine because she did not experience them that way. She'd only used emotions as tactics to seamlessly and emotionlessly kill, never for her own sake. In this case, she had no idea why she would have kissed the King of Heroes so it wasn't a thought that crossed her mind. And now that he'd mentioned it, she'd begun thinking and had no idea if it was something she should be doing at all. She was the Queen of Knights, that seemed like the sort of thing that would contradict her image in some way.

[Bloodedge]

Unnecessary and uncommonly stressful was essentially the perfect description of Gilgamesh's life, as well as his existence. Still, it was both his right and his responsibility to bear this particular breed of clairvoyance. In the time Artoria had been preparing for the Holy Grail War, he'd decided to name it. Sha Naqba Imuru was to be its name, insinuating that he saw the "deep" of this world. In his eyes, there was no truer title for the way his understanding functioned. Alas, it was not with this power that he accessed the sibling Artoria desired. "It is as I said," he affirmed. Yes, he did know which sister she referred to. It should be clear even to the common folk that she would not seek the younger sibling she doted over for such a discussion. The Lady of the Lake, Vivian herself, would be present.

Now, would she attack him as instructed? He was rather keen to find out, and he would indeed have his answer. She didn't know. There were interesting inferences to be made with an answer like that, such as the idea that it was something to be considered by the queen. "H'oh?" How strange. Such a marvelous woman walked this planet with virgin lips, which even previously only found the forehead of her younger sister, or even the lips of those she had no interest in. Well, he had yet another treasure to claim, didn't he? "Then it is passion you must learn of," he decided as the golden ark lowered toward land. "Shall I take on the role of instructor to compensate for your ignorance? These lips have not known the touch of another, you say. I say they are mine to claim, even here and now." Gilgamesh's words were accompanied by the movement of his hand. Away from her cheek it went, his thumb tracing along Artoria's bottom lip before joining his forefinger to grip her chin. Even while landing, he didn't seem too keen on stopping this approach. "What say you, O' fearless queen? Shall I be the first to attack this time?"

[Apollymi]

Apparently, Gilgamesh had gotten the sister she wanted to see. That was interesting. She hadn't seen either version of her older sister since she'd slayed Morgan Le Fay during her quest to unite Camelot and thwart the non-believers. Of course, this slaying of her sister had been part of her sister's plan but it was still a difficult thing to do. What was more, she only had fleeting contact with the other woman as it stood, it was fine though, she was raising her children and quite certain she would see her again. "Good, I have not seen her since I slayed her other self. I was beginning to worry she was cross," she said seeming to skip over how absolutely psychotic it was that she'd murdered her older sister at some point.

Her words were not met by strangeness instead Gilgamesh laid claim to her lips as if they were treasure. He wished to take her first of such instances. Did he not fear? She'd literally just told him that kisses normally came with violence of the life ending variety. And he'd preach to her instead that she needed to learn passion? "That is not a question anyone normally asks me," Artoria's words were strained he was far too close. This seemed to be exactly contradictory to her normal methodology. Even so, backing down wasn't an option. How did she allow this? There was a finger on her lip, she did not hate it. Should she allow it? It felt like he was challenging her and deep in her soul she couldn't really take that kindly. "You claimed I could not stop you from claiming something you consider a treasure, if there is any truth in that I should allow this indulgence just the once," Yes. That was the right answer of this she was sure. She did not understand what he meant of passion and though she was unlikely to care one way or another, no harm could come of allowing this by her own understanding. Perhaps it would even give way to her own understanding of the King of Heroes.

[Bloodedge]

Oh? She'd never been approached by one who would take up the instructor's position in matters of passion; that much was blaringly obvious. The only passion she could be considered capable of wielding, was in regards to combat. Fine. In addition to the many other things he would claim of hers, he'd take it upon himself to teach her the ways of indulgence in another's form. How privileged she would be to receive him, and how privileged he would be to claim her innocence bit by bit. "It is not a question I would bother asking another. I will forgive your chastity, if only because it is another thing I shall soon possess."

Would she truly challenge his resolve? At this point, she was not simply consenting, but demanding. She claimed she would allow an indulgence, totaling three for the day. Surely she did not think he would back down after all the talking he'd done; he was never one to refrain from delivering. Most interesting of all was the fact that they had landed, and still she made no attempts to extricate herself from his lap. Well then, there was but one thing to do. "Hmph." This was not a moment of Artoria calling the king's bluff. Never had there been anything resembling a bluff passing his lips, but in the next breath, there would be a foreign pair of lips against them instead. His grip of her chin had firmed, and his lips had pursed just slightly. Two mouths connected in the most brilliant moment this world had the honor to behold thus far. Such a fool she was, with her experiences that held no real purpose. This day, Gilgamesh would be taking the first step down a long path of endless bliss. The first step being the most important of any journey, he would take all the time he had to enjoy a single, extended moment. He'd feel the swell of her lips' flesh, he'd savor the hint of fermented berries left behind from her wine-drinking, and in-turn offer the same. Ah, there was even the gentlest hint of warmth still creeping out of her face into his own. Truly, it was as magnificent as he could have imagined. Without a doubt, this was the first of many memories that would be engraved on the essence of his very soul.

[Apollymi]

Artoria ran into the situation consistently of Gilgamesh presenting himself to her in ways she was not normally spoken to by anyone else. In most cases, people did not approach her so very earnest ways. Of course, she also was not always so forward either. It was normally the case that Artoria Pendragon was stoic aside from her nature on the battlefield. As such, it wasn't likely for her to experience anything akin to fun or passion aside from moments of combat. So imagine her surprise when she called the King of Heroes on his words and he followed through with his actions.

She was surprised! Well, not entirely. She'd known the truth of his words when he'd spoken them. She knew he would not back down but she couldn't bring herself to back down either. It was quite a pickle she'd ended up in but as their lips touched his fingers firmed against the lower part of her face and she felt strange. His lips against hers, should not have inspired any new feelings but she could taste wine on his lips and feel the heat of his breath against the pursing of his lips. They'd landed she could have walked away based on that, but she hadn't. No, instead she was now locked her lips against his own, her eyes having closed ever so softly. Why had she done that? The heat of her face had gone nowhere and now her heart had gained an erratic rhythm in spite of the fact she should have felt nothing. She didn't know how this felt but she was quite sure it was something. Something new and different, and exciting judging by the thumping in her chest. This chaste press of lips had started soft and unsure, but confidence came naturally when engaged. Artoria was sitting in the lap of the King of Heroes kissing him and she was feeling something. Well, he said he was teaching it was his job to back away right? Yes, that seemed logical enough she didn't know if she should trust him with the task but she also couldn't trust herself to pull away. She was not sure it was something she wanted to do.

[Bloodedge]

Sadly, any lack of trust Artoria had in herself to pull away would be her undoing if care was not taken. Just as she should never have believed Gilgamesh would not back down, she should never believe he would think of pulling back. Once he felt the shifting of her lips, the deal was sealed. To Gilgamesh, this was an uphill climb in a stairwell that crumbled behind every footfall. The only way was up, until the destination was reached. Ah, but what was the destination? Surely he wouldn't continue until anything ridiculous happened; that would be uncouth, and would furthermore sully their future wedding ceremony. However, a simple meeting of lips was never the way for one who sought true pleasure.

How far would the Queen of Knights' confidence take her? She fell to the kiss easily enough, but what of the evolution? Right there in the throne atop his golden ark, Gilgamesh opted to partake of more wine than her lips had to offer. Where would he find it? Once past the lips, the only destination was the tongue. The fingers upon Artoria's chin shifted to either cheek, pressing in to further the puckering of her lips and pry open her maw. That opening, once created, would give way to his tongue as it sought warmth, sanctuary, and deliciousness against the moist muscle she'd been abusing with words of challenge so recently. The slightest space remained between open mouths then, acting only to diffuse the breath that escaped Gilgamesh's mouth during this act. Sensuality was almost a mandate for these meetings in Mesopotamia; Artoria had essentially resigned herself to learning this first-hand.

[Apollymi]

Artoria found herself falling. If for Gilgamesh this was an uphill climb, for Artoria it was a freefall from a skyscraper. Every second she seemed to lose more air from her lungs and the ground was rapidly approaching. This whole thing could have taken only a few seconds but it felt like hours, and time would only extend for her as she was dragged along a varied path. She'd kissed people before killing them but such things always ended. What would she do when there was no end in sight? Well she'd continue her descent. But there was another matter entirely...

The grip of Gilgamesh's fingers on her face shifted. Her small jaw found itself opening to a gentle squeeze. He was forcing open her mouth and when her lips parted as they always would, he forced his tongue within the space. How audacious. Her eyes opened wide for just a moment as she mentally questioned this action of his. There was a tongue seeking sanctuary in Artoria's mouth, moving about within and taking up space for itself. She didn't remember agreeing to such an intrusion. Her natural inclination would have her fight back against anything intrusive. Of course, this tongue of his was included after a tentative stroke or two. The space between these two mouths was open and warm breaths were escaping her. Why had this been a reasonable idea? She really needed to rethink her impulse control, just the same... she couldn't truly deny enjoying this action. She couldn't say why she liked it though either. Stuck. She was stuck in the middle of emotions she did not normally possess. And beyond that point her body seemed to understand a bit more than she did. Why was she warm? Her face, and her neck both seemed to be on fire. As she moved against the tongue in her mouth that place too felt warmer than normal. Her mind had to have lost functionality for a few seconds, she didn't remember sinking so far into this. They should stop right? The smallest sound the tiniest little moan crept out of her throat. It was strangely a noise she didn't recognize as belonging to her body, it truly was a treacherous beast.

[Bloodedge]

Treacherous indeed. While Artoria lied and lied, her body spoke only the purest truth. Luckily for her, the heat welling up inside had an outlet. Gilgamesh could feel it as it crept out through her mouth via every breath she took. Wonderful. That tongue he assaulted rubbed back in the most adorably timid manner, but shortly afterwards, the fighting spirit of Artoria Pendragon showed itself. He was rather keen on responding in kind, as this was always the sort of dance arousal led to. If he were not so busy making a home for himself in her mouth, he would have equated this to combat. One attacked, one countered, the other countered, and so on. Well... it seemed she understood the way of dancing well enough by instinct alone. Hers were clearly not practiced movements, but rather actions of confusion. Her tongue lashed against his with an arousal Artoria herself had not come to understand, while Gilgamesh knew it as a key to her loins. That little squeak of a moan was so audacious to her, and so inviting to him. She was into this enough that he could let loose her face and take her by the back of the neck instead. Ah yes, a proper embrace was best suited to this. His hand hooked around her neck in the same way his arm had been hooked around her midsection all along. In this way, he could take even greater thrill in the rolling of saliva across one tongue, back over the other, and all between.

[Apollymi]

The lies Artoria told herself were the truth as she saw it. She saw no real purpose in engaging in such a way before now, but perhaps, that was due to her own notions. Whatever the case, she found herself heated up to the point of melting against the actions presented by the King of Heroes. Those tongues of theirs engaged and she found further confidence. She could not help but lash out against him when he decided to invade, it truly was her own instinct which made her face such a battle. Still that little noise and suddenly Gilgamesh's grip on her person had changed. No longer was he hanging on to her face, instead his hand was around the back of her neck. He held her as their tongues danced and they swapped saliva between them as if it was their favorite pastime. Did she like being held this way? She didn't dislike it, but she could say that about everything. Her own body was betraying her at every intersection. She was certain she'd never considered anything about this man before now, and right now she was thinking only about the way his lips and tongue moved against her own.

Artoria was the Queen of Knights, surely she should have had more control, but no... she'd lost it all the moment he'd taken up with her more tenderly than she'd imagined while showing her a notion she'd never known before. She should have been squirming but she wasn't sure she could even feel anything in her body besides the exhale of warm air, the spreading warmth of her loins and the feeling of his tongue and lips against her own. At what point could she even pull away? Well likely at the point where the feelings in her body neared a threshold she didn't understand. At the point where a noise escaped her mouth that she recognized as belonging to her, her eyes shot open and she finally pushed against him seeming surprised to find herself still wrapped up in his embrace. Her face was flushed, her lips felt swollen and there was a distinct almost throbbing quality between her legs. Surely, she shouldn't still be here. "I... you... should let me go, King of Heroes." Already she was avoiding eye contact and feeling the necessity of squirming out of his lap. She needed to put space between them, as much as she could get as quickly as she could get it.

[Bloodedge]

Gilgamesh found merriment in the continuation of this epic conquest. He would be sure to spoil himself on this, favoring the aroma of Artoria's wine-drenched tongue over the sweetest desserts and most well-seasoned meats. To think, something would surpass the wine of Siduri, she who made wine for the gods themselves. He could no longer refer to it as the best in this world, so long as it could be further improved upon by simply passing the lips of a particular queen.

There it was again─ that noise signaling the Queen of Knights' heightened arousal. This was all just the beginning, the speech before the true battle, the appetizer of a grand meal. Sadly, it was also the most fleeting experience in spite of its own length. It felt as if he had only just begun to experience the vigor of Artoria's tongue when it jerked away, the whole of her pushing against him to reiterate a desired release. Gilgamesh hesitated, but he seemed all too pleased in doing so. Eyes were upon the queen still. Still, a grin was upon his face. He let loose her neck and waist as requested, leaning into his own fist thereafter. "What's the matter? Has my simplest approach ripped your very soul out through your mouth? I will gladly put it back, if it pleases you." he chimed. It was clear to him why she pulled away. Confused as she was all along, it seemed they had approached a crossroad, and Artoria found herself without a map. He would have easily acted as a guide, but... all in due time. After all, there was a veritable palace just ahead of them, and many guests awaiting their eventual arrival. "Or, you may go. Find your lake woman, and have her take the reins in my place... for now. Rest assured, I will be waiting for your return when the thirst demands quenching."

[Apollymi]

That kiss was broken and Artoria was given the time to catch her breath. She was not the type to back out of any situation, but here and now... she could not move forward. Yes, that was the case. But what would Gilgamesh have to say about this denial. There was smug acceptance and a claim that this had been the simplest approach. That was terrifying. He'd also loosed her neck and waist, she could move and she would do, though it took her a moment. Artoria would not be taking uneasy steps in front of this smug man. "Do not tease me, King of Heroes," she said with sharp eyes but less firmness than she would have preferred in her own voice. She extricated herself from his lap and stood, cup in one hand, The Holy Lance in the other, which would disappear as it was switched with Excalibur. She would be finding her sister immediately. He claimed she could go, and find her sister instead of having him place her soul back into her body. She was fairly certain she did not have a soul at all to begin with but if she did, he'd definitely taken a piece of it. "I am going," she said to mark her seemingly calm exit. Even so, there was something disturbed about her face. Like she hadn't quite gotten it completely under her own control. She wasn't distressed or dishelved, she simply did not fully have the mask of her normal visage in place. Where would she go? Towards the palace not knowing who she passed initally as she sought out a bath. Why a bath? Because a standing body of water would do, and she intended to be clean before appearing in front of guests.

Even so, she dropped Excalibur into the water and watched it disappear in the surface. This same blade would appear in the hand of another in front of a certain Pharaohs whom she'd been chatting with. "Oh? I think we will be in the bath. Give us a few minutes... she's probably freaking out about something~" said the blonde haired woman with startling blue eyes. Not the color jewel sapphires like their youngest sister, instead a more electric sort of blue almost otherworldly even here. A few second later in front of a large steaming bath the Holy Sword Excalibur would appear back in the hands of Artoria and on the other end that long haired blonde fae girl would also be there. There was no stopping this lass in a moment like this, she had to just spill everything. "I kissed the King of Heroes. I do not know how to feel or what to do about it, I do not have a face for dealing with this situation!" she exclaimed immediately. Those electric blue eyes widened just a tad and then a laugh escaped her. "Well, you could always get back out there. I am sure something really fun will happen by the end of it~" she teased ever so gently much to Artoria's dismay. "Absolutely not. I do not understand why I did it at all... I do not have feelings Rie. I do not feel things, I thought it would just happen and be over, but I felt this. I felt it and I did not dislike it, my body is not my own, it betrays me at every turn where he is involved."

[Bloodedge]

Do not tease her, she insisted. No... it didn't actually seem very insistent at all. Surely she meant for it to be, but that demand was spoken with a lack of firmness uncommon to this woman. Hilarious. With only a kiss, he'd put the battering ram to the first of many thick walls toward the Queen of Knights' heart. She would not escape the fate he chose for them; nothing proved that more than this very moment. Whatever the case, now was the time of their parting. Celebration would be taking place once the queen was fit to participate. Knowing that would be some time, Gilgamesh took a few additional moments to himself. After that ordeal, he had to bask in the afterglow. Time should be taken to properly burn the sight of Artoria's flustered face into his retinas. Besides, there was likely some reality in which she returned immediately after walking away, so he had to be prepared just incase. . .

No, Artoria instead took the route of actually meeting with her sister. She did so by entering the bath and sending Excalibur as a calling card to the Lake Fae, much to the surprise of the male pharaoh currently partaking in conversation with her, as well as his own wife. "Ho. Take your time, and send the regards of Ramesses to that queen. With the Moon of my Life here, I have no need of your premature return," the man stated. The Lady Vivian had no need to rush back to their conversation; he would just as soon sit through the whole of the festivities speaking only to his wife. Of course, throughout their casual banter, Ozymandias did determine that the Lady of the Lake was no less reasonable as company than her apparent sisters were.

[Apollymi]

Gilgamesh would have a few moments to himself, and Ozymandias sent his regards. A chuckle escaped the woman at his side with those almost rainbow eyes after the appearance of Excalibur in the hands of another individual. She nearly scoffed upon seeing it, given what the Queen of Knights was like. "I am surprised. I figured she would not part with that weapon for anything in the world~" she mused as the Lake Fae disappeared to see her sister, giving a nod to their regards. Soon after, she looked to her husband the Sun King and had but a few words to share. "My Sun and Stars, we both know I will be joining them shortly. I could not let the Queen of Knights appear at her own party without a look fit for the level of Queen she has become~" she mused. There was excitement in her eyes, she'd be designing soon enough.

"Calm down Eri. The Sun King sends his regards, so does the lovely wife, who will be with us in a bit..." she mentioned with a casual shrug. Artoria for her part in this was now pacing back and forth in front of the tub, the sword in her hand as she couldn't calm herself down. "I do enjoy the Pharaohs, but I cannot think about that. Rie, is it sorcery, is that why my body betrays me?!" she questioned. Artoria was grasping at straws for an explanation for why she was moved by the King of Heroes now when she felt nothing for anyone before now. Her elder sister, known to most currently as Vivian could only laugh at the notion. "It is hardly sorcery, more like biology. A hot guy likes you... it is normal to feel something in response..." she explained to her sister. "This wouldn't be a problem if you'd been more honest about the fact that you didn't have feelings at all. I thought you were only crushing your emotions, you're making this more difficult than it has to be..." her elder sister gave sound advice as she always would. Even in the face of the pacing Artoria. "That is easy for you to say. You do not understand. My body reacted of its own accord and then he had the absolute and unmitigated gall to look smug about it! I hate him!" Artoria was outraged again and it took all Vivian had to avoid laughing given what the girl was like when she felt murderous. "Little Sister, you do not hate him. You hate that he is smug, but the good ones usually are when they figure out how much power they have over you. Again, it's biology," she said indirectly referencing her own experiences which made Artoria pause her movements. "That sounds like a compliment towards that damnable mage coming from you..." Artoria said less murderous more confused. She would remain confused by her own actions. "It isn't a compliment it is a truth. You learn to live with it, or rather... it will become worth it to deal with..." she explained of the situation generally, knowing she would have to give this same explanation to this girl again. "Look how about this, have a bath, relax and talk it out with me. You can take it at the pace you are most comfortable with or seek advice elsewhere later. Not everything requires immediate action." Vivian offered Artoria stared at her sister several moments before she acquiesced. A bath would begin with the two siblings while Artoria tried to figure out the nature of her feelings about the King of Heroes.

[Bloodedge]

"Does that really count as parting with it? I would sooner call that woman the second sheath," the male said regarding Artoria discarding the Holy Sword Excalibur. As well as that group suited the lore learned in their original world, the sudden appearance of Excalibur in Vivian's hand was only proof that it could travel at least somewhat freely. Ozymandias remembered several films in which the sword traveled through any random body of still water, so he assumed that was the case here.

Ozymandias was content with the current, but sadly, he would not be for very long. True enough, Nefertari would soon be parting ways with him to work her magic for the Queen of Knights. Damn. With them being in the bathroom, there was no way for him to observe her at work. "Tch. You would abandon the Sun for that, in a place I cannot see? That is a grave offense," he declared. Nefertari in her element, but outside of his scrutiny, was tantamount to telling a child it could not play. Of course, Ozymandias would react to such a thing in a manner none too different from the child in said situation. "What recompense should I expect for this great loss?"

[Apollymi]

According to the Sun King, the Lady Vivian was a secondary sheathe for Excalibur. Nefertari supposed she could see that given the trust issues surrounding the Queen of Knights. "I suppose that was the way of things. Still, I know a little sister begging a big sister for help in a panic when I see one. I was one... for far too long~" she mused. Her own older sister had delivered her from many a panicked interaction with a boy, even one with the very Pharaoh she was currently beside, well before he was Pharaoh anyway. Moving right along, it appeared that the Sun King took offense to the idea that Nefertari would be joining the Queen of Knights in the bath instead of allowing him the great pleasure of seeing her work. He could not always come along with, and the bath of the great ladies in preparation for a party was tantamount to a sacred right. "My Sun and Stars, you know how sacred the time of women in preparation is. Surely, the great Pharaoh will not pout like a child when the moon has to leave his side for a few short moments~" she mused with a cheeky smirk. "Especially not when the other side will be visible for his viewing pleasure for at least a while," she said practically telling the man to take a full gander at her backside when she left for the bath. "Besides all great works need a helping hand and my own cannot be stayed for a Queen like that one~" she chanted.

Ah, yes, bath time. Artoria would soon be found drenched in water hair down. Her elder sister sitting behind her brushing out her locks while the other lass tried and failed to come to terms with what was likely her first bout of attraction. "I cannot like him," she said soundly. "You can and you do. It is obvious to all but you..." she said carefully, as she brushed out knots and tangles through clean locks of golden hair. "You say this but there is no proof of that..." Artoria's body was betraying her once more. And Vivian reached around the lass with an extended arm tapping her wrist with two fingers, and watching something strange happen. A twirling blade in her fingers came to a halt. A Lapis Lazuli handle and a strangely forged blade. This was no relic of Camelot and yet the Queen of Knights was using it to comfort herself. Vivian was Rie her older sister. She knew the lass habits better than she knew them herself. And her holding this blade was a sign of affection whether she saw it as such or not. "That dagger dancing across your fingers is no piece of Camelot, Little Sister. You did not get it from me nor any one of your Knights. Meaning it is a gift from the King of Heroes and it grants you comfort enough that you are using it while trying to speak to me of your distaste. Lie to someone else Eri. I've known you too long for you to hide from me," she said which made the other girl pause looking over her shoulder at her sister. What could she even say to that? "I... cannot argue I like this knife. But it is a really great knife," she said carefully. "Yes, and Kei's cooking is also really great as you would say." was the immediate follow up. "Shit." Artoria was saying these words for the first time in ages. Did she truly like the King of Heroes. "I do not know how to speak with him, Rie. I cannot like him, I do not have a face for that interaction," she said calmly as that knife began moving again. All the while Vivian did the girl's hair, a couple of braids and that tight bun, it would be made so slightly different from the norm, on one side an extra braid tucked in for the sake of flare. "Do not try to make a new face, such a thing will not suit you. You can be yourself now... you know? He likes you."

[Bloodedge]

Apparently, that little stunt Artoria pulled was a sign of a sister in need. That was an interesting way to see one of those, perhaps different in his experience because he was a male... or perhaps because his sister had a very strange way about her. Hell, maybe it was a bit of both. "Ho. I never would have guessed. Dealing with Bree, her tell was always bringing home foods that would ruin a diet," he mentioned. Ozymandias remembered many a time in his previous life, where his dear sister spoiled him with ice-cream, cakes, confections of all sorts and... loads of chips. There was always something wrong in those situations, but ah, what sweet memories they made. "I wonder where she's run off to now..."

Whatever the case, there was no way for Ozymandias to find satisfaction in observing his queen's work this day. Though, according to her, he could always observe the work of her mother... in a roundabout way. "Hah! And you think the sun will not eclipse the moon at its earliest convenience?" It was a dangerous game Nefertari played. Any time she invited him to do such a thing, the chances of neither of them accomplishing anything productive skyrocketed. In cases such as this, however, he would not truly attempt to pull her from her work; she was entitled to her fun alone. "I suppose the new moon must come every once in a while. Afterwards, you may be certain that the moon's waxing phase is upon us, no?"

[Apollymi]

The Sun King didn't spot the signs of the distressed younger sister, his apparently spoke a different sort of language when she was in need of advocacy. A smile spread across the female Pharaoh's lips in the moment as she gave a nod of her head. "That isn't too odd. It is a love language, she probably made safe with the idea that letting you cheat your diet would mean equivalency in exchange for the time she was taking from you. I was prone to locking myself in my room all the time, so when I had a bad day, I could always be found right under Ronnie drawing something furiously until she acknowledged me," she said thinking back on her own younger self. "Bree said she wanted to be a rock star now that she isn't tone deaf, I assume we'll be hearing about her eventually~" she said with happiness. "Everyone is different, it would seem our resident Queen of Knights has become a girl properly since we last saw her, both her clothing choices and the lack of vision when she entered hint at it. I haven't seen such a thing myself since Iris... the Golden King might be to blame for the emergency meeting," she said taking a knowing sip from a cup of wine. Ah, but in addition to the conversation surrounding the party, there was the private conversation between herself and her perfect pharaoh. "Of course, I expect it. It is a celebration after all, I would always welcome my Pharaoh~" she said offering a wink to the man. Still there was the matter of the waxing of the moon. "As you like Pharaoh, I am waiting for the sister bonding to ebb so I can help our young Queen's confidence. After that and making an appearance I am sure no one will miss the Pharaohs for a while~" she mused lightly.

In the meantime this hairstyle was set in place and a quick signal would be sent to the Queen of Queens about the readiness of Artoria. Though Artoria herself was only barely just starting not to panic. "He cannot. I know he does but it makes no sense. I do not even know who I am outside of my faces... he cannot be sure of any of that and he is. I am a killer. The death and hope of millions incarnate. I am not a pleasant person, Rie, I don't even count myself as a person but he is so sure he likes me. I do not even like me," Artoria's words surprised her older sister. She knew this lass didn't possess regular emotions but she didn't expect this level of confusion. "Not all problems have immediate solutions, Eri. Sometimes it is best to let nature take its course. If you wish to think on your feelings you are free to do so..." said Vivian. Artoria reached for her head feeling the difference of the extra braid and turning to face her sister. "You changed the style," she said acknowledging the difference. "You will come to like it this way. I have never led you astray. Trust me Little Sister." Artoria looked at her older sister and relaxed even sitting in the water body wrapped in a towel she could see no deception in her elder sister. "I cannot kiss him again. I do not understand my reaction... or why he has that sort of power over me," she said finally. "Well, it's basic biology. Communication between bodies is a lot less complicated than you are making it. I am sure it will make sense to you eventually. Some people have that effect on other people and are comfortable with and use it. Some people do it and abuse it, but the rare ones have that effect and hold it with glorious purpose, you seem to have found one like that last. Do not run for too long little sister," Vivian said. "I am not running. I am strategizing it is different." Artoria's words betrayed her fears. Yes she would face them but not while her body did things she did not understand and not while her heart seemed incapable of settling. Even now her face was gently red as she thought of that moment. "I'll never be able to look at him directly again." Vivian laughed. "When did Eri become a proper school girl? I need to know~" she teased.

[Bloodedge]

Nefertari's words made infinite quantities of sense. He'd come to the same conclusion, that his sister thought bribing him would somehow soften the blow of interrupting his schedule, but... he'd also told her many, many times that she took precedence over both work and leisure. That didn't stop her, but he figured it was a matter of comfort, and thus let it pass. Besides, the man named Oliver Williams would never turn down free chips. "Hmph. I would have a chat with Serenity then, about how the young ones never make it easy on us. She seems similar enough that I can say you, like Bree, were wasting your time doing anything but opening your mouth. Luckily, though the reasons differ with the moment, I enjoy when you both open your mouth," he said.

Moving on to talk of Queen Artoria, apparently she was growing into herself as one of the female persuasion. He could see that, given how she rushed past everyone without a word offered when reaching her own party. She had the bearings of a person flustered beyond belief, but making every conscious effort to keep it covered. Hardly a girl exclusive thing, as he'd once been in similar shoes as well. Ah, but what was this? Nefertari spoke of Iris, her child cousin from their previous life. When had that one done? "Hmph! Iris is a precious and innocent child. Who had the audacity to catch her eye?" he wondered, almost angry at the thought as an older brother would be. As for the King of Heroes being the reason for Artoria's current state, well... he couldn't be very surprised. In fact, he chuckled at the idea. "From how insistent that man was about the quality of our work here, and the attendance of everyone here... I'd say he has a terrible case of Down Horrendous Syndrome." Ozymandias had seen behavior like that before. Looking at Gilgamesh during the setup to this celebration was like looking into a distorted mirror of his past self. Well, they had many similarities in this world as things stood, but who would have imagined them having similar dedication, or even obsession toward their desired ones as well?

[Apollymi]

The Sun King would discuss with his sister-in-law the nature of having a younger sister not come out and say what they were looking for. He expressed a desire for both of them to know that they were wasting their time with emotional bribes in exchange for advice freely given. "Yes, well most of us come to realize that in our own time. But when you are young, hormonal, impatient and bratty... it is sometimes difficult to see the forest for the trees. Especially if you've recently been disagreeable," she said with a curt nod. Ah, he liked when she opened her mouth did he, well, she would be sure to keep that in mind. The rest of the conversation took an interesting turn though, it would seem that the great Pharaoh Ozymandias was blind to himself as always, a scoff escaped Nefertari as she explained whom the great Sun King should be angry with. "Oh, none but the Sun could catch the light of a rainbow~" she said with a chuckle. "You truly are blind, Ozzy. Iris was furious with me for weeks after I introduced you. Only agreeing to relinquish you to me under the dire promise that I never leave you. Only then could she try and find a way to console her heart~" Nefertari explained of that young cousin of hers, who'd had an unwavering crush on the God King until confronted by his relationship with her older cousin. Whatever the case, the works of King Gilgamesh to make this entire party happen did reek of a man infatuated beyond belief. She looked at her cup and saw a small fairy within only to have it disappear the moment it caught her eye. "Yes, he does seem quite interested. I suppose I will be finding out if she is as well, my Sun and Stars, feel free to bask in my radiance as I depart and keep an eye out for anything that we can take amusement in later~" she said as she took the moment, to peck his lips before running off towards the bath. Yes, she was going to dress the Queen this day.

At the same time Artoria was pacing that knife still twirling around her fingers in a perfectly balanced way. "I am not a school girl. School wasn't even that difficult. I had a face for that..." she said. Hoshimi Eri had been a popular athlete and star student. She seemed busy enough with her studies but would hang out from time to time in groups if need be. She was, in that case much like she was as the Queen of Knights. A firm and fair individual who seemed to be a little fun just below the surface. "You can just be yourself. I am sure your King of Heroes has explained that he knows who you are, if you feel the need to share with him the details of your past, I am sure he would not judge," she said trying to encourage a bit of emotional depth. Any little bit of attachment would make the future easier. All the while Artoria's gaze fixed on her sister, she could see her mind working and her good intentions, no deception just her desire for her sister to be nice to the man she liked. Strange. "He should judge me. Nothing about me is particularly likeable. I do not understand his obsession," said Artoria. It would be in this moment that Nefertari entered. "If I might, Queen of Knights. Obsessions do not need to be understood just accepted. And you do not need to dislike yourself so much, you are plenty likeable. You ran by me so quickly earlier I could not stop to appreciate a good faith work in your clothing choices. No matter, I cannot let the Queen appear at her own party without a little flare," she said with a smile on her face. "Queen of Queens, you are a goddess, but I do not understand about this matter of men," she said truthfully. "Take it a day at a time young Queen. Confidence and understanding will come at your pace~ My own Sun and Stars spent quite a while showing me the beauty of myself before I believed him, and even I eventually saw the truth of his words, yours shall be no different of this I am certain," she added. Which made Vivian snap and nod her agreement. "That. Everything can't be a battle or training but if it makes you feel better, you can work your way up to feeling comfortable with your King of Heroes~" she said. "Now we ask questions we see things. I know you have changed your look recently do you like your boob window?" Nefertari asked about Artoria's dress. "I do not dislike it. My only complaint about clothing ever is functionality, I like the bottom free for movement but the top I do not mind." she said as the rainbows in Nefertari's eyes began shifting and those marks around them began to glow. "Ah, I have a great idea then. You are so petite but so fit. It's great, a form like this brings musings from me~ Come, we shall make sure the Queen feels confident and functional in her new wardrobe~" she said happily. And with that she'd begin the process of creating a proper dress for the Queen of Knights.

[Bloodedge]

"I'm sure you do. If memory serves, there were a few times that a certain someone ran up to me and started ranting before I even got so much as a hello out of her," he recalled. These moments of reminiscing did Ozymandias the world of good. In having them, he could always keep hold of his original self, never delving too far into the existence of Pharaoh Ramesses II. Though he did enjoy the current position this world offered, he'd have hated seeing himself become the full mentality he bordered upon.

The one called Iris had an eye for someone, and according to Nefertari... it was Ozymandias himself?! Impossible! "What?! I thought she was just a little sweetheart that was pissed with you because... I don't know, kid reasons!" he explained, baffled by this new information. Strangely, discovering that child had a crush on him was both bothersome and adorable. How he'd deal with it, however, was a curiosity and a half. "That's going to be very awkward later, now that I know. Damnit!" He would be needing to compartmentalize that knowledge for whenever it became relevant again. Either way, it wasn't worth any worry at present; Nefertari had been called upon by the Lake Fairy. Oh! That meant it was time for a strange combination of disappointment and satisfaction! A quick kiss to the lips, and Nefertari would be on her way. As much as he hated these parting moments, brief or otherwise, watching her leave was a different matter entirely. As such, Ozymandias would be seen shamelessly ogling her backside every step she took, until she was no longer in sight. "Look at that," he murmured to none other than himself. Now that she was done, it was time for the male pharaoh to mingle and... find a decent spot away from the crowd, for later use.

[Apollymi]

A chuckle had come from Nefertari. Of course, such a thing was likely to happen, teen girls were either emotional rollercoasters or pretending to hold it together and nothing in between. "Sounds about right, poor things being young is so difficult~" she said as if teasing but in truth she felt that sentiment all the way to her soul. Towards that same topic the kid crush of her younger cousin seemed to be a thing Ozzy truly didn't know had happened and he blamed kid reasons for her potential bad attitude. "There was also Hop, sizing you up all the time. You really are a strange one not to notice this sort of thing~" she said helping keep them both a bit closer to grounded in their original personalities. Of course their chosen forms, the fact that they were together and their shared life experiences helped them both keep a good grip on themselves.

Meanwhile post her leave and what she was certain was Ozymandias eyeing her backside, there was a gathering of women as the Queen of Knights needed to be both comforted and dressed. It seemed her elder sister had taken care of hair and Nefertari was taking care of clothes and both had taken on the role of calming her fears about the King of Heroes in the meantime. Nefertari would do this the best way she knew how, a new outfit to help her outer confidence. At least this way she could hold her public self to a certain standard. "I am thinking a sapphire blue. Something that pops. Slim fit on the top, large window, wide sleeves for your sword movements but... narrow wrists and form fit about your body. Yes. That sounds great~" said Nefertari as her vision came to life. "Oh yes, white as the main secondary, nice fit top a couple of buttons if you're feeling a bit frisky~" she chimed. "Oh trimmed in gold, corset on the front yes, keep it nice and tight show off all that hard work," Nefertari seemed to be talking up the young Queen of Knights and her elder sister approved. "You're right. I've always been sort of jealous of how good she looks in blue. Not like my sort of blue but that really rich one... she definitely has the skin for jewel tones~" she commented. All the while Artoria found these fabrics light and flexible while also enjoying the current tightness of her top. Even the golden trim seemed to shimmer as she looked down the front of her form. She had such an obviously feminine tilt to this dress, she found herself appreciating it already. "A bit light on the skirt but with a flare. If you don't have the hips yet, you can fake it a bit. And little boots underneath finishing touches..." she chimed the Pharaoh. "That might be some of my best work, honestly. Even the shoulders look the way I imagine. What say you Queen of Knights, any issues?" she asked as if willing to take criticism. "I think... I love it," she offered honestly. Artoria had never felt more like a girl than she did right at the moment. She didn't feel this dress would get in her way at all, she enjoyed the snugness of the top and the slight billow at the bottom. It was knightly, but also queenly and so perfectly fit she could do nothing but appreciate it. The colors and softness of fabrics even made her feel like she could wield Excalibur with no problem. In fact she reached for the sword holding it in her hands moving her body around with it. It would be for an instant like watching her dance. Nefertari smiled as she saw the Queen of Knights reach peace for herself. "Then my work here is done. You look great, Queen. If you ever need anything else... and you find you really like that one, I am always willing to dress another fabulous queen." And with that Nefertari would disappear. Vivian too gave an appreciative whistle... "We'll be waiting for your grand entrance, Queen of Knights. Remember, one day at a time, the King of Heroes chose you, you can choose to believe in you~" she said making her way back to the party. And now it would be time, Artoria only needed a few minutes to calm her still beating heart.

[Bloodedge]

In those few minutes the Queen of Knights needed, several things were coming together. Pharaoh Ozymandias had returned to the grand hall of this building, and seemed to be having a most casual chat with King Gilgamesh. The two were laughing wildly over this thing, that thing and the other while awaiting Queen Artoria's return. Most of the hundreds of people seemed primarily idle in the grand hall, bar the few who moved about serving wine and snacks to hold over for the coming feast. Strangely, the hall contained two thrones at the very end. Multiple Knights of the Round Table had taken note of this, viewing it with judgment and curiosity alike.

Amidst all the mingling, it seemed one individual was content to occupy the guest of honor's remaining sister for a time. This particular knight boasted the greatest stature of all who visited the venue. He had silver-grey hair, a body encased in radiant silver-woven plate armor. He carried a Phantasmal Greatsword, Balmung, on his back even while attending a celebratory event. His tall stature, slender body and tanned-colored skin were proof of him having been soaked in the blood of a dragon. Naturally, this man who stood apart from even the Knights of the Round Table was the designated peacekeeper of ongoing events. What did this man want with the Queen of Saints? Well, he was essentially the bouncer of this party, and stature aside, Jeanne d'Arc was the one he deferred to. "Jeanne, are you really sure all of these people are trustworthy? Some of them look... more than questionable."

[Apollymi]

The Queen of Knights was centering herself, quieting her own mind and preparing to have to enter this hall which she did not want to do. While this happened, Nefertari found her way back inside and easily slipped her arms around the Pharaoh Ozymandias while he carried on laughing with the King of Heroes. At the same time, the errant Lake Fairy took up drinking among a few of the Knights of the Round Table.

For her part in this, the Queen of Saints found herself near to the tallest man in the room, and technically the one she was most familiar with. Why? Well, they were speaking about the situation at hand, this strange gathering which had people in it who fell less than stellar on any random person's listing. In this way, the tall man before her, reminded her quite a bit of the Queen of Knights. "Don't worry so much Sieg. Between the Knights of the Round Table, You and I, and every other holder of a Holy Grail here, if any thing bad happened we could take care of it. Besides, my sister would probably relish in blowing this place out of the sky after having it sprung on her~" she said knowing the truth of her elder sister in a strange way. She knew that Hoshimi Eri wouldn't at all appreciate this sort of party, but she also knew she deserved to celebrate. As her darling younger sister, she'd take the heat for any negativity her sister wanted to dish out, knowing full well it would never truly reach that point. "Now, how long is she going to make us wait, that is the question~" Jeanne managed seeming pretty pleased beyond the norm. She had on dress white in color with heels seemingly happy about the ensemble even though she was usually hailed as a commander on the battlefield. Whatever the case a strange bell could be heard ringing and when it did, Artoria Pendragon finally emerged from the bath in her new dress with her Holy Grail in hand. What else, it was this victory she was celebrating after all, and those emerald green eyes of hers were quite content. Why wouldn't they be, she had done exactly what she said after all.

[Bloodedge]

The sudden appearance of Nefertari stole Ozymandias' attention, but did not halt his laughter. His arm hooked around her once contact was initiated, and he gestured for a server to provide her wine. After all, he was already quite a few ahead. "Ha ha! Moon of my Life, listen! The Golden King says he will soon have work for you!" he said, still laughing his head off at all the random merriment thrown into their discussion. To continue, Gilgamesh took over the clause. "Indeed. The Sun-King claims there is no seamstress in creation that rivals the likes of you. From what I have seen, I do not disagree. One percent of my treasury will go to you, if you will simply construct the wardrobe of a lifetime!"

Meanwhile, the man deemed "Sieg" was being told not to worry. Looking around at these individuals, he wasn't sure exactly what one didn't have to worry about. The Knights of the Round Table, Jeanne d'Arc, wielders of the Holy Grail and so on... They were all indeed quite powerful. That, however, was the problem he foresaw. "Everyone is mighty, yes, but is everyone agreeable? It seems a single argument between two people could quickly escalate to a calamity, once a few sides are taken. Would that happen to be why I'm here?" the tall man wondered. Alas, he was soon to have his attention taken away─ a fate that would be suffered by all. The bell tolled, answering Jeanne's question to the world to herald in Artoria Pendragon herself. In this new and stunning dress of hers, how would she behave with all eyes on her? One such as Gilgamesh would wonder as she took her first steps into the great hall. "H'oh? I presume this, too, is a a sign of the Sky-Queen's capacity?"

[Apollymi]

Upon joining the pair of Kings, Nefertari was informed of her future works. She couldn't help but grin at the idea of being able to dress more the Queen of Knights, knowing the intention of the Golden King. "Oh? Are we flattering me today?~ I don't know how much that is, but... the Queen of Knights is one of my favorite models. I have no problem with such tasks and she is far more agreeable than she tends to let be known~" she said with a smile on her face. "Unless of course you meant for you. I have been known to design men's clothes from time to time~" she said giving a quick glance at her husband as she took a single drink and found herself easily sipping upon it. She had so much information about the state of the Queen of Knights' mind right at the moment. She knew there was about to be a rather stunning realization for the lass.

Jeanne, found Sieg's points both agreeable and worth glossing over. He was worried about the state of these groups of people should they choose violence. "I could see that as a reason to be worried but..." she gave a pause and smiled. "My sister is more of a problem than anyone here. And she is not above using violence to make her point. No one will come to blows if she does not allow it," Jeanne seemed very certain, and she had every reason to be. But there was one thing she did not know and one thing that had rather conveniently slipped the Queen of Knights mind.

She'd forgotten to mention the role of the King of Heroes in her life. She didn't truly know what to call it, but she hadn't mentioned his looking after her, nor her trip to the upper realm a decade ago. The only one who knew of this man's leanings towards her besides those of the upper realm was Sir Tristian who'd left her company because he was saddened by her lack of affection towards the King of Heroes. Yes, Queen Artoria Pendragon had forgotten to tell a collection of knights that she was technically being courted by the King of Heroes and this was going to become a huge problem when he sat beside her in a few moments. She was well aware of this and her eyes narrowed just slightly. 'Fuck, how could I forget something so important.' she thought hiding panic behind her visage. The lady knights of Camelot were looking at their queen with near stars in their eyes. The Lady Kay had known Artoria most of her life, and she was being so much a little lady right now she was colored surprised. The Lady Galahad in her infinite cleverness had taken all of a quick viewing of this room to realize what exactly was in store for them all as far as shock was concerned even without the direct details. Oh yes, this was going to be a problem. Even as the Queen of Knights walked with her hands clasped in front of her holding onto her Holy Grail. In her need for comfort she rather suddenly wanted to be holding a weapon, perhaps this wouldn't go as badly as she thought it could. Maybe she could get through this evening with just a few wayward looks from her Knights and have time to explain it to them later? She could hope right? Maybe pray? Could she pray to the Nexus? Every step was taken with dignity, she did still feel very confident in this dress speaking of, Nefertari had something to say. "Of course, can't have a Queen showing up to her own party without a proper new look~" she said after another sip of wine.

[Bloodedge]

In terms of flattery, all words spoken by both Gilgamesh and Ozymandias were simple truths as they saw it. In terms of how much Gilgamesh offered for the Sky-Queen's work, it seemed she hadn't a clue what 1% of his treasury entailed. With his specifications in place, a mere desire to work with Artoria Pendragon as her canvas would not be sufficient. "Demand is high. What I require is a wardrobe greater than your greatest works. One percent would be enough to exceed the monetary value of your country, if not for the pricelessness of one-of-a-kind structures found there. Regardless, the offered quantity is great enough that you can spread it on the ground all around you, without a single piece touching, and not see either end. Return to me with your answer when it is time to dine."

While the King of Heroes was being unnecessarily frivolous for a woman who rejected him time and time again, "Sieg" heard of how apparently ridiculous the Queen of Knights was. With that being the case, he had to wonder what he'd been called upon for... though there was no summons from Jeanne d'Arc he would not answer. "I suppose this is an easy job then. If necessary, I will at least do my best to prevent any issues before someone else has to step up," he assured with a light bow, which barely brought him down to eye-level with the Queen of Saints.

Nefertari confirmed her work on Artoria's current dress. Gilgamesh heard these words, but his attention was fixed. "Hmph. Magnificent, as expected," he said, though his words were not truly about that dress at all. Nothing was on her face, but panic was in her soul. This, too, was the dichotomy of Artoria Pendragon that Gilgamesh found perfect. Leaving the pharaohs to their devices, he stepped toward the end of the isle. Those knights' concerns would be realized, or perhaps even given reason as King Gilgamesh stood before two thrones, while Artoria walked a path toward them. His arms were crossed, and a massive grin was upon his face. There was an announcement to be made, and what would it reveal? Well... everything Artoria failed to tell her faithful knights back home. "Hear me, you pack of fools! Behold the radiance that is the hope of humanity. Flounder before the queen of all creation. As this is a celebration, I will allow the lot of you to gawk and extol to your hearts' content. You should all take advantage."

[Apollymi]

Nefertari was provided a strange explanation. He claimed what he would give could have outweighed the monetary value of their country aside from their specialty buildings. Ah, that was quite a bit, but what he wanted was a wardrobe of such a great magnitude it would have been even greater than her own. "What an interesting proposition~" she said. Giving it a decent bit of thought she had until dinner to decide, she'd give it a bit more thought. To undertake an entire wardrobe for the Queen of Knights was extreme especially when she considered the lass likely wouldn't just want it. Still, it would be fun and she had quite the interesting figure.

Ah moving on, Jeanne explained to Sieg how the events of the night could play out with the Queen of Knights and her violent tendencies. Of course, him doing his best was all she asked for, but she didn't exactly bring him along just for that purpose. He bowed bringing him within distance of her face and she pecked his cheek with her lips. "I should be clearer. If anyone is going to attack, it will be my sister attacking the man who... is currently speaking. No need for you to get between them~" she explained knowing the truth of a battle between Gilgamesh and Artoria Pendragon because she'd once witnessed it herself.

Of course, this fact would only be culminated in a moment where Gilgamesh technically revealed everything the Queen of Knights hadn't told her band of people. The lady knights both had their eyes snap to the Queen of Camelot. They had not expected this, even so, this man was brash and as abrasive as she'd claimed. Both of them knew how one ended up with a man like this, but both would have only smiles on their faces. The Lady Kay would be the first to speak, as she flipped a blonde ponytail over her shoulder and sat in a very well put together bit of armor with a flowing blue cape. "I am clear headed right, there was just the implication that our Queen is at least courting a man, correct?" she said aloud to Galahad. That pink haired young woman could only nod her apparent understanding. "That does seem to be the case, but... she forgot to tell us. And she didn't expect him to," she said with a gentle gesture towards the Queen as she approached Gilgamesh. 'Fuck, fuck fuckity fuck fuck!!!' her mind was all swears and no room to deliver. She shouldn't attack him, that would give the wrong impression, but she wanted to give him violence for the crazed way he announced the information he did. Her Knights weren't prepared for this, and that was a problem and a half. "Why? Why are you like this King of Heroes? Do you live to embarrass me?" She asked this question with a reddened face and softness at the edge of her visage. She'd had a plan, and a face in mind for this evening and now she had... nothing, her entire look had shattered in a single moment of speech knowing that she'd forgotten to tell her Knights about the intentions of the King of Heroes before now.

[Bloodedge]

When Jeanne spoke, full sense was made, though it also made no sense at all. Artoria being the one to attack, if anyone did at all, was perfectly reasonable based on what he'd heard thus far. Her attacking the man speaking at present, however, seemed wrong. Before anything regarding that was addressed, the lips of Jeanne were pressed to his cheek. The man's eyes widened as he pulled away, pressing a hand to the location and looking around abashedly. "Is that really an appropriate thing for you to do here?" he wondered aloud. About the Queen of Knights' potential attack, he was even more curious. "Why would she attack him? She seems to be the only one he speaks positively about, and it sounds as if they're engaged to be wed. . ."

Engaged indeed, Gilgamesh would say, even if that was not truly the case at present. Others believed the same, though. Lady Kay and Lady Galahad were not the only visiting knights to discuss the words of King Gilgamesh; Sir Lancelot and Sir Gawain were in a very similar position. "Is there something we've misunderstood?" Gawain asked, to which Lancelot grunted and shrugged. "Your guess is as good as mine. He's still breathing after saying such things with her standing right there, so... maybe we completely missed something? I don't trust it; we would have heard about this. Something suspicious is going on." It seemed Sir Lancelot would be doing a bit of investigating soon. First though, he had to let the overall shock of the crowd die down a bit. It wouldn't be best to make an even bigger scene, after all.

Besides, Gilgamesh had the ability to make the scene even bigger all by himself! Looking upon Artoria's beet-red visage, he laughed hardily. "Bwahahaha! Of course; what else? It is my divine right to bring heat to both your face and your loins! I find it beyond titillating to see you in such a state. You may call it an exercise in restraint, that I do not throw myself upon you each time you show that face," he announced, being none too quiet about it. Why would he be? As far as he was concerned, there was nothing at all strange about his words. Regardless, he took one step to the side, next to the throne he would soon sit upon. "You come brandishing the Holy Grail, the fruit of your own labor. Have you no words for your subjects, those dogs of Chaldea?"

[Apollymi]

The words of Jeanne seemed to click in the mind of Sieg as he was being called by her. Moreover after she pressed her lips into the side of his face, he pulled away abashedly making the young blonde woman with eyes like blue sapphires smile up at him with the slightest bit of mischief as their light. Was what she'd just done appropriate to the situation? Yes. "Of course it is an appropriate thing for me to do here. I am a saint not a nun. And I'd need a step ladder or you to be seated otherwise~" she said with a smug little smirk across her face. Ah, yes, Hoshimi Emi was just as bad as her siblings without their abject personality defects. As for why the Queen of Knights would attack the King of Heroes, Jeanne looked at her sister's cracked visage following the announcement of Artoria's status within Chaldea. "If you wish not to fight, I would avoid using that word directly to her to describe that relationship. My sister is... emotionally unavailable. The King of Heroes deserves more credit than that, he also does not have anything bad to say about me, we get along swimmingly." she said as if she couldn't get along with literally anyone. Still the King of Heroes was quite openly abrasive, her sister was similarly openly violent, they were bound to have disagreements from time to time. "He is an interesting person and their conversations are series of battles. I have seen her nearly slay him when he proposed marriage so... take that as you'd like. I am not going to question how they love each other. But I think he's good for her~" she said of the Queen of Knights and the King of Heroes.

At the same time as the conversation between Gawain and Lancelot, Agravain looked at the Queen in her distress. They had always been of the opinion that the Queen of Camelot was an inhuman dragon-slaying beast with the heart of an assassin tucked under the hem of their Chivalry. To see her now, looking as red faced as a school girl created a contradiction in the mind of the young blonde causing their eyes to flicker a brilliant shade of red. "Who are we to know the truth of our Queen's heart? Has she ever been the type to tell us anything we did not need to know?" There was the slightest bit of outrage in Agravain, who'd spent time with their other aunt, the Queen of Saints, just to find out the Queen had at some point decided this man could speak to her in such a strangely direct way. "Still who is this King to speak to our Queen in such a way?" Agravain's loyalty to Artoria was never to be questioned, even so that one's temper was almost as bad as her own. 'Fuck. Agravain is pissed. The world is falling apart and still...'

Gilgamesh kept talking. Every word he spoke inspired Artoria's reactionary nature. "Do you leave me no dignity? Would it kill you to shut your mouth for three seconds and see what you have caused?! I am sovereign of my own nation and have been for a century do you have any idea how you saying such things will affect my image?!" Artoria was whispering but every word was full of ire, and embarrassment. Audacious was the King of Heroes with every word he spoke about her, and yes they were all still flowers but did he need to say such things directly to an entire crowd of people? Still there was a matter of addressing the audience. She did need to do that, she hated doing that and she'd lost her public visage for just a moment. Right, that one she could do, before taking the Knights with her to set them at ease. "I... succeeded in capturing my Holy Grail as I said I would. Albion will rise at my command, and you all have done your fair share in preparing so, until this enjoy the celebration." she said with all the dignity of the sovereign she was. "I know you all have questions so, Knights with me," she'd take all of this at face value that cup still clutched in her hands and walk towards her group most unsettled. She knew they were all curious. Agravain's eyes had not left the King of Heroes, but they turned to follow their aunt the Queen of Knights as they always would.

[Bloodedge]

According to Jeanne herself, her actions were very much appropriate. As for her excuse, however, it was quite... misplaced? Yes, that was it. "I'm not so sure needing a stepladder is enough reason to be so forward with an opportunity in public. Though, it's not that I mind. I worry for your image," he said. She was a saint, not a nun... True. However, the company she chose to keep was not exactly what most would expect of either. His story was not necessarily an honorable one, contrary to the truth of events. Whatever the case, he was presently being advised against speaking on the apparent engagement between king and queen. He couldn't imagine why, though he also couldn't fathom how someone emotionally unavailable could be in a situation like that. Further information about the previous meetings between those two only proved more perplexing. "You have the most interesting family. Are all of you so strange?" he asked.

In the midst of an ongoing discussion, Agravain offered their two cents, so to speak. They were the most loyal to the queen in the strangest, most suspicious of ways. They were at least right; the queen never shared unnecessary information. "Isn't that the problem? Isn't this something we should know? Even if it is a personal matter, something like that not being shared with us by our own queen is suspicious," Lancelot claimed.

Gilgamesh knew precisely what he was causing. It was all for the best; everyone would simply have to adjust to things. Artoria herself was included, of course. Artoria's current image was nothing to be concerned about, as all were required to see the image Gilgamesh saw. "I have every idea that the image you have now is the play of children. Queen of a nation? That pales in comparison to your true self: Queen of Everything. Addressing you as what you are, merely comes with the territory of becoming my bride," he said with utmost confidence. With that, Artoria offered the briefest speech. That was more of a greeting than anything, but there were no qualms to be had. There was, however, an issue to be taken with one of the knights who followed Artoria out of the hall. Gilgamesh felt those eyes upon him, and his own were set upon the smaller blonde in kind. What manner of mongrel was this, to stare at him so brazenly? A glare was returned as those strange pupils drew to narrow slits, then opened slowly. In his mind, Gilgamesh ended the life of that audacious brat in the time it would have taken to blink... but alas, he would not be sullying his queen's celebration before it truly began. "Hmph."

[Apollymi]

According to Sieg he didn't think her seizing such an opportunity was misplaced. According to him he worried for her image, that was dumb. "My image needs no worrying. I want to be seen with you. There is literally no reason I wouldn't be so forward, I am expressive as an individual, a bit of opportunism is the key to success in life~" she said. She took that attitude into most things, including but not limited to battle. There was also a question of her family and the strangeness surrounding her siblings. "I do not think we are too strange. We just had a very structured life before and all of us took it differently," she said that explanation making all of the sense but also being exceedingly vague. Not that she would not explain such things to him if he wished to know them specifically.

According to Lancelot there was suspicion around the Queen not sharing information. Artoria could practically feel the dissent; why did he have to be so brazen and difficult? The Queen of Knights could have eased her group into this instead they were thrown into the deep end. At the same time Agravain was given the strangest glare they'd ever had the displeasure of meeting, before they turned. Artoria had something to say about that though even as she walked away knowing what that person was like, because she would have been doing the same thing herself. "If you have time to glare Agravain your eyes should be on me. I raised you better," she said which immediately made that one drop their gaze and most of their attitude. "My apologies, I spoke too freely..." was offered and meant with sincerity. Artoria had nothing else to say to Gilgamesh as she was still steaming at his words while she could not contradict them at all given her own conversation with the Nexus.

Once outside with all her personal Knights gathered, including the Lady Kay and the Lady Galahad Artoria fought with herself over how to explain the situation. She'd decided a few moments ago she'd simply start speaking and hope everything made sense by the time she was done. And strangely though she was their sovereign the first thing out of her mouth was. "I owe all of you an apology. I had planned to ease this transition a bit better, but I also came to realize today that I forgot to mention the King of Heroes before now aside from that first mention ages ago," she said still holding the Holy Grail in her hand. "That situation is a bit more complicated than I initially intended..." Artoria took full responsibility for this as she could, admittedly it wasn't a situation she'd imagined herself explaining but given he'd showed up when she won her grail she figured she'd have to explain it. She just simply didn't expect to do it, today and she'd forgotten to mention the development of their ability to converse with each other at the start of the previous decades wait.