Humanity's Oldest Fortress City

Whew. In spite of the Demonic Beast attacks along the way, it looks like you made it safely past the ruins.

This is...oh? It looks you're heading north?

Based on our mapping data, isn't Uruk to the southeast? I thought you'd go south down the Euphrates.

Do not be so shortsighted, Dr. Romani. We'd enter a different goddess's territory down south

Oh, right. You do not know the current situation in Mesopotamia.

Let me start with that. To be blunt, humanity in Mesopotamia is on the brink of extinction.

Roughly 80% of the population here has been slaughtered.

The survivors are huddled in the city of Uruk, facing the ever-looming moment of extinction.

...Who is causing chaos in this era? Does that person have the Holy Grail?

Yup, yup. We'd all think that, naturally. After all, the king of this era is the tyrant Gilgamesh.

It's not hard to imagine him using the Grail's power to oppress his people and lead the world to destruction!

The boss of the Demonic Beasts we encountered in the ruins... That is indeed a possibility.

Many Demonic Beasts appear in myths, and Mesopotamian myths are no exception.

...Furthermore, in those Mesopotamian myths, there's a great goddess dubbed the "Mother of Demonic Beasts."

If one of them has the Holy Grail...

？！

No, nobody has hold of the Holy Grail. Something other than the Mage King's followers is destroying this world.

Mesopotamia faces destruction by something equal to, if not greater than, the King of Mages.

Yes. To be blunt, the gods are the ones destroying humanity.

It's not the God you're thinking of. The gods of this era are different...

The Three Goddess Alliance has descended on this era and claimed roughly 60% of the lands of Mesopotamia.

G-Goddesses, you say!?

Fou, foooou!

No, she was a goddess that was forced to tag along with Orion, so I don't think she's powerful enough to destroy the world.

Hahaha, as the one who has been victimized the most, let me tell you this! Those three are devils indeed! Especially the oldest one!

She lacks Authority because of her low rank among Divine Spirits, but if there are any male dictators, she can destroy the world another way!

？！

So there are Divine Spirit Servants in Chaldea too...? That is...slightly unexpected.

I thought such powerful summons were impossible outside of the Age of Gods...

No, all the goddesses we've encountered so far have been diminished somewhat in order to be contained in Servant form.

Their Spirit Origins have been on par with Heroic Spirits, so I don't think any have the Authority of a god.

Good. That is more understandable. This must be what you call a fragment of the spirit.

However, the goddesses that have appeared here in Mesopotamia are different.

It is true they are Divine Spirits summoned by someone, but their Spirit Origins are on the level of true gods.

The monsters we fought earlier were subordinatesno, it's better to say childrenof one of the goddesses.

The Three Goddess Alliance is, as the name suggests, three female deities working together.

We know almost nothing about them, individually or as a group. Their objective, though, is crystal clear.

？！

...The annihilation of the human race. Complete extinction. No survivors.

"Eradicate humanity here to cause everything rising from this era to die out." That seems to be their objective.

Impossible... They're not just seeking to cause chaos in this era, but to annihilate mankind itself!?

That's no different from the King of Mages! If they're goddesses, aren't they on humanity's side!?

There's never been a time when gods allied with humans. Humans are nothing more than worker drones to the gods.

It is said the gods of Mesopotamia created humans to be "those who perform their jobs in their stead."

Whatever the truth is, for gods, humans are objects to keep, not objects to love.

Gods who love humans merely suffer from a logical error due to being multifunctional.

Take the great goddess Inannaknown as Ishtar in Akkadianfor instance.

That goddess has a confusing nature unfit for a deity. She loves abundant harvests, man, war, and being at the top.

She claims to love humans, but favors war where humans kill each other. Isn't that contradictory?

？！

Right. That's why it's helpful to think of it as a kind of logical error.

Lack of uniformity from having too many elements and functions. Put simply, she's just insane.

...Interesting interpretation. Contradictions are created from having too many functions...

In polytheism, the roles of the gods are subdivided into small parts. In other words, they are all specialists, so nothing is wasted.

That's why so few gods have this error that makes them love humans. Is that what you're saying?

Yes. Usually the demiurge who possesses many functions and roles is the one that loves humans.

The more roles a god has, the more they make logical mistakes. Just like humans.

...Anyway, it's useless to preach about gods here.

The three goddesses that appeared here each used their own methods to destroy Mesopotamia.

The greatest force of the three drifted over from Greece: The "Goddess of Demonic Beasts."

...Yeah, you should see it soon. I think it's simpler if you see for yourself rather than trying to explain.

From this plateau, you have a clear view of the situation at the Northern Wall.

That is the first threat. The evil offspring of the Goddess of Demonic Beasts, who crushed the very center of this world.

？！

Right. When Demonic Beasts filled the northern area, it was made with materials salvaged by dismantling Babylon.

Nowadays, it is called...

The largest and final fort that protects human hope and the four corners of the earth: Absolute Demonic Front Babylonia.

Amazing... Not as impressive as the Holy City's outer wall, but it's a tough wall that stretches out over the horizon.

Something is moving outside the wall... Are those the Demonic Beasts from earlier?

N-no, that's not possible! I see thousands of them!

No, that's not all. To the north, I'm getting magical energy readings orders of magnitude greater!

...Unbelievable. My goodness. There's no way humanity can possibly survive something like this!

The Demonic Beasts earlier had power equal to a small autonomous tank! Now there're thousands of them! You can't possibly hold that off with a single wall!

Uh... Doctor... I can hardly believe what I'm seeing either, but... that's exactly what they're doing.

There appear to be soldiers outside the wall, and they seem to be holding against the rushing Demonic Beasts...

I-is that possible!? Just how powerful are these Sumerians!?

Do not be surprised by that. They have been holding that wall for six months already.

S-Six months!? No human could do that!

Yes... But, it's amazing... They must be extremely proficient soldiers...

It is exactly as Mash has surmised.

The fortress city that fights Demonic Beasts day and night. An endless onslaught of Demonic Beasts driven back by its soldiers.

But the humans suffer fewer casualties... Precise army utilization. Seamless shift changes.

Training new soldiers even during combat, putting them on the front line, and having the wounded rest and concentrate on healing.

This is the ultimate form of point defense. At that rate, they should be able to hold the front line for another month.

Yes... They're clearly losing, but, in the grand scheme of things, somehow winning...

I wonder what kind of person is in command of that fortress...

？！

...Yes, truly. They shed needless blood as well.

There is no need to annihilate everything. They will die off on their own, so this is useless.

Fou...?

？！

My apologies. That was a bit much. Even Demonic Beasts are living beings. I was too emotional.

If you are interested, you can join the front line anytime. I hear the recruitment test for Uruk is very lax nowadays.

Y-yeah, it's definitely a situation we'd like to help out with, but Fujimaru alone won't change much.

For now, let's hurry to Uruk. The fact that military operations are in full force means that their commandertheir kingstands strong.

If the threat upon Uruk isn't a king gone mad with the Grail, but this "Three Goddess Alliance," negotiations will be simple.

Request an audience with the king, explain our objective, find the Holy Grail within this era, and recover it.

We'll think about dealing with that Northern Wall afterwards. Got that, Fujimaru?

？！

Are you done chatting? Then let's hurry on ahead.

As we were assaulted by Demonic Beasts earlier, this area is likely still dangerous. For now, let's get under cover of the forest.

We are almost at the safe zone. We should make it by sunset.

...So this is the Cedar Forest? Legends say it was protected by the Demonic Beast Humbaba...

Though I thought it was believed to be located east of Uruk, in the Zagros Mountains beyond the Tigris...

Oh, there are two versions of the story. The Sumerian and Akkadian versions differ.

The older records put the Cedar Forest to the west.

So it makes sense that we would find it here, but...

...Yeah. I agree. The Cedar Forest in the Epic of Gilgamesh was a holy place.

It was bright enough that they called it the "Forest of White Cedars." But this place... It's like being in the belly of the beast.

...Yes. We're walking farther away.

？！

Is something wrong? What's the matter?

(What should we do, Senpai? Shall we point out that we are going farther away from Uruk?)

？！

Oh, are you worried about the direction we are going? There is a wharf at the river up ahead.

There is a boat docked there. Once we get to the wharf, all we have to do is take it downstream.

I am sure you are tired, but hang in there. Once we get through the forest, it will all be over.

...Senpai, that's...!

Oh my! What wonderful news! I didn't know there was a wharf up ahead!

Hey, sorry to scare you! I'm not an enemy, so hear me out.

We're stranded. As you can see, we didn't know our way through these trails and got lost.

I figured we were going to end up monster food, but luck must be on our side!

See, Ana? Don't you think you were right to follow me?

We weren't lucky enough to reach our destination this time, but we met locals who know the way.

Good things come to those who wait! One step forward, two steps back! I didn't expect to see humans in the territory of the Goddess of Demonic Beasts!

...Senpai, these people who came out of the forest... I've seen them somewhere before

？！

Are you lost? That is unfortunate.

We're heading to Uruk. Will you come with us?

Of course. We'd follow you even if you refused to let us. We've been walking three days straight, and my legs are so stiff.

But, hmm... Tagging along with someone when we don't know their names is unsettling.

You there. Can you tell us your name?

Oh, I'm afraid I can't tell you mine. Nor can the girl.

I see. That's a unique name. Sure don't hear it around here. And the lady, then?

Now, now, don't be like that. Actually, we heard your name already.

You're Fujimaru, right? And who's the lady?

？！

My name is Mash Kyrielight. This is Enkidu.

Enkidu? Did you say that's Enkidu? Hmm... That's a problem. A big problem.

...Why? Is there something wrong with me?

No, it's just that if you're Enkidu, I'd have to start questioning my own memory.

King Gilgamesh is commanding the front line in Uruk. He's just returned from his quest for the herb of immortality.

Which means...

Whaaa Hold up! That doesn't make any sense!

If we're in the era where Gilgamesh has already returned from his search for immortality, something's very wrong!

He didn't set out on that quest until AFTER the death of his friend... Enkidu.

And that means, if he's already returned... Enkidu should be long dead!

He might exist as a Servant, but he can't be alive!

？！

Hah...hahaha, hahahaha!

Yeah, I figured this little farce of mine wasn't going to last long!

Hello, Fujimaru. Hello, incompetent fools of Chaldea.

Mmm... I was so close, though! Just a little more, and I would've seen something so very fun!

You're supposed to be the last hope of old humanity, right?

All humans are failures, but truly YOU are the most pathetic of them all.

If I had managed to offer the goddess up ahead something as rare as you, I would've been able to see a living hell!

So you led us into a trap...! Are you really Enkidu!?

Of course. I talk like Enkidu. I have Enkidu's powers. I am Enkidu itself.

Why would you think that Enkidu would be on your side, anyway?

I am a weapon created by the gods. Of course I'd side with the goddesses.

Mash, enough talk! Enkidu's magical energy already rivals a Demon God Pillar's!

I don't know how it happened, but the thing you're looking at is aligned with Solomon, the enemy of humanity!

Now that they lured you here, they'll never let Fujimaru return home alive!

You have to fight Enkidu! It's the only way to survive!

How rude. Up until a moment ago, we were so friendly to each other.

Ah well, sad to say, he's right. You were doomed the moment you stepped into this forest.

It's a shame I can't take you alive, but I can at least present your head to Mother.

...All right. It's time for your journey to come to an end, Chaldea.

Enkidu is taking a combat stance!

But...we know how powerful he is! There's no way that we can...

That's right. You have a snowball's chance in hell of winning. Do you know why I fought alongside you?

So I could show you just how much weaker you are! Ahaha! Humans are so pathetic!

So die. Die, old humans, to the sound of my laughter! Fall into the waste dump, as you envy this perfect weapon!

!!!

Humph. I have no idea what this fake Enkidu is going on about, but I understand the situation.

Fujimaru and Lady Mash are at a disadvantage. Ana, help them.

...Fine. This wasn't part of the deal, but I will protect them.

...!

Pathetic. You seem like a Servant, but you're no great hero. You're second-rate at best.

Did you really think such paltry Mystics would stand a chance against my attacks?

...There's no need for me to defeat you. The conditions for victory in this battle are different.

Having a human-like intelligence can sometimes backfire on you. You should take this opportunity to learn that.

...What?

This is... I see. I've been caught in an illusory dream halfway through.

Which means that's the mage working for Uruk... I finally got to meet him, even if it was dumb luck...

How irritating. I hate to admit this, but he's just like the legend says: good at running away.

Capturing him would be extremely difficult. Killing him, even harder.

...Which means there's only one way to break that spell of his...

I guess I'll have to give up for now. I can't leave her alone for a whole day.

She's such a child, considering how big she is... If I turn my back for a minute, she goes on a rampage.

We've been so careful and methodical in our planning and wiping out humanity.

If she gets out of hand, it could be over in a day. That's not good at all. Seriously.

I mean, if we just killed them, we'd be no different than humanity.

There's nothing wrong with killing, but you need a reason, and a theme. That's our duty as the new humans.

Fou, fooou!

Hm!? We were fighting against a fake Enkidu... Huh?

？！

Hahaha! Wow, that worked out great!

I figured they wouldn't be able to resist mental attacks yet. I felt a little remorse because it was like tricking an innocent child, but oh well.

We needed to survive. Nothing wrong with a bit of ungentlemanly conduct.

After all, we were fighting the mediator of the Three Goddess Alliance, the traitor to all Uruks, Enkidu.

That young man... Or was it a young woman? Well, it doesn't matter. They've killed countless soldiers.

After all, as the leader of the Demonic Beasts, they are working directly for the Mage King!

？！

Yes. They said as much while laying waste to many fortress cities. And while many Uruks seem to want to believe it isn't the real thing...

...unfortunately, that combat capability could belong to none but Enkidu.

You should be careful. They may look beautiful, but they're actually a weapon forged to kill humans.

The Enkidu we met has reverted to their cruel nature, to the way they were before they met King Gilgamesh.

Anyway, all that aside... Let me formally say hello!

I saved you when you were in danger. Please, shower me, your savior, with your humble words of gratitude!

Oh, right! Th-thank you, person we've never met before!

Wait... never met? Senpai, have we met this person before?

Foufou.

？！

Foufoufou!

？！

Foufoufooou!!! Murder Merlin foooouu!

？！

Dofooou!?

What are you doing, you feral beast!? Have you forgotten the years I took care of you!?

Fou, fooou!

I never should've taken you in, you wicked beast! Cath Palug! Take that, you cath-tastrophe!

How many busty women have you decieved with your cuteness!? You get all the ladies' attention just because you're fluffy!

I feel like an idiot for having to work so hard! Don't you feel bad for making me pull out all the stops!?

...

？！

Merlin, please limit your lunacy to when you're alone at night.

I led the enemy away, as you ordered.

It doesn't appear that they will pursue us, but I recommend we move to our destination as soon as possible.

Oh, glad to hear it. Good work, Ana. That's a big help.

...This battle was not part of our contract. Do not thank me. Think over your actions.

Hahaha! That's harsh. But you know how they say... Something, something... "Helping others..." Yeah! It's good... I think.

Now that Ana's back, we should introduce ourselves.

I am Merlin. I'm actually a Servant. This is Ana. She is a Servant too.

You can call me "The Amazing Merlin the Great." What about you, Ana? What do you want them to call you?

...It doesn't matter. Ana is fine.

Th-thank you so much for saving us back there, Miss Ana.

No "Miss." Just call me Ana.

...And I don't like humans. Please keep your distance if possible.

Oh, don't worry about Ana. She just really doesn't like humans. There's nothing more to it than that.

More importantly...

HOLD IT!

This is all so incredibly shocking that I've been sitting, frozen in front of my screen. But, now that I've thawed out, let me just say... HOLD IT!

Merlin!? Did you say Merlin!? The great mage of the Isle of Britain, born of a human and an incubus...

...one of the world's greatest kingmakers, and the world's biggest scoundrel! THE Merlin is right there with you!?

And as a Servant!? Merlin, the Grand Mage who shouldn't be able to die until the end of the world!?

Fwahaha! I knew I could count on you for a grand introduction, Romani Archaman!

Indeed. I'm none other than THE Merlin, Grand Caster. The greatest, most powerful, most handsome mage of all time!

Well actually, I only have the right to be given the Grand title. My Spirit Origin is but a normal Caster.

THAT IS IMPOSSIBLE! There's no way Merlin could be a Heroic Spirit!

I mean, you clearly look like him, but you're lying, you phony! Show us your true form!

Fou, fooou!

？！

It's probably... because of discrepancies in the legends about Merlin.

Merlin is the fabled mage from the Isle of Britain who primarily appears in Arthurian legend.

It was his help that guided King Arthur Altria Pendragonto the throne.

Afterward, he served as King Arthur's court mage and adviser, and appeared in many tales.

But due to his womanizing habits, he was driven from Britain and eventually ended up in the utopia of Avalon.

After repenting his wicked wayshis sinshe was imprisoned in a tower there. A tower he built himself.

He punished himself by watching over the world in the cramped tower, never dying.

Both Avalon and the tower Merlin is trapped inside exist outside of time, and will only disappear when history ends.

So, Merlin is still alive. And no one who's alive can become a Heroic Spirit.

I think that's what the Doctor is trying to point out.

That's right, Mash. Merlin is a hero who isn't counted as a Heroic Spirit.

Though it is possible he could be summoned by some kind of irregularity, like Scáthach...

But in terms of combat, he's completely useless!

All Casters with the potential to be a Grand Caster are powerful clairvoyants. Solomon's eyes, for instance, can see the past and future.

King Gilgamesh can see the future. And that scoundrel in front of you can see everything in the present.

Some can see more clearly or further than others, but all possess the power as observers.

But their superpower is basically magic sight. And Merlin's the worst of them!

He's nothing more than a magical telescope!

The only thing Merlin can do is view the entire world from the Tower of Avalon.

In the modern world, it'd be like having the power to look into any computer networkOh.

？！

Hey, excuse me while I butt in☆

I'm busy proving Fujimaru's existence, so I don't get many chances to talk this time around.

But since Roman's frozen stiff, I have some questions for Merlin.

First, thank you. You've secretly provided us with magical energy resources, haven't you?

The Incineration of Humanity destroyed the world, but Avalon, where you are, is still standing.

So you've been using a replenishing method similar to the Rayshift to kindle Chaldea's reactor... The Fire of Prometheus.

You've been doing it in secret, and only when we really needed it, without the King of Mages finding out. Impressive.

I was just helping out. After all, I hold the world record for being the oldest shut-in.

I had nothing else to do, so I've just been helping Romani here and there.

But it still doesn't make sense that you're a Heroic Spirit.

You're still in Avalon, right? So how'd you become a Servant?

The reason and the method. Unless you tell us these two things, we can't trust you.

After all, Enkidu just attacked us.

Based on the search plan Chaldea made, Enkidu was our most trusted candidate for navigator.

But then Enkidu turned around and betrayed us almost immediately.

We certainly can't put our guard down around another newcomer who seems to be friendly... You can see why Romani's worried.

Hmm... I see. So that's what got that idiot so mad, huh?

Fine. But I can't tell you the reason. I'll just tell you it has something to do with this Singularity.

I can, however, tell you the method. It's very simple, Da Vinci.

This Singularity manifested in an age that predates my appearance on Earth. In other words, my body doesn't exist here.

Which means that in this world, it could theoretically be said that I am dead.

I used that fact to make myself a Servant. Part of it was that I was called forth by a strong summoner.

A strong summoner... Is there a Master in this era besides Senpai?

Yes, of course. He's the one who summoned me, and I now serve as his court mage.

On the other hand, the influence of the Grail summoned Ana. She's a Rogue Servant. That is, she has no Master.

I actually just met her two days ago.

I was lost in this forest, and bumped into her. We got along, and made a contract to support each others' goals.

...He's awful. He tricked me.

Merlin is the embodiment of every kind of dishonesty in this world. And that is being nice about it.

Hehe. Aww, stop it! You're flattering me!

Fou, fooou!

I see. I understand the general situation now. Romani, give it up. That's the real Merlin.

Ugh... My stomach... This situation's a mess already, and now with Merlin showing up...

But we don't have time to be picky. Whether he is a scoundrel or not, there's no denying that he's one of the greatest mages.

Did you manifest to work with Chaldea, Merlin?

Will you fight with us to repair the Singularity, stop the Incineration of Humanity, and save human history?

Of course I will. My one joy in life is watching the present.

Without it, I'll just be a lonely man staring at the Garden in my tower.

That's a terrifying future. So of course I'll help you.

And you don't honestly think that you folks have been the only ones cheering for Fujimaru as they got this far, do you?

I've been watching your whole fight on the edge of my seat.

I don't think it's fair to not let me be part of your group now, do you? Though I know I'm a threat as a Caster.

I'm a Grand Caster, after all. A chosen one, just like the King of Mages.

All the other Servants, especially the Casters, are going to get jealous of me...

In the end, they'll realize they can't beat me and get shuffled off to the backup group!

... (Annoyed)

...Ahem. Sorry, seems I talked too much.

Maybe it's punishment for not listening to Ana's warning. A group of enemies is incoming.

This is, however, a great chance to say something I've always wanted to say.

"Everyone, be careful! Wyverns incoming!"

Humph. Well, Romani? Sounded just like you, didn't it? Give me a score!

Hahaha. Yeah, that was just like me. You get a ten out of ten!

Okay, Fujimaru, do me a favor!

When he's distracted during battle, punch him in the face for me!

That took care of them all. Let's head to Uruk now, for real.

Fujimaru, it's your duty to explain Chaldea's mission to the king of Uruk.

When you meet the king, it should become clear what you are meant to do. Oh! Also, Uruk would be ideal as a temporary HQ.

...That's what Merlin recommends... but what do you think, Master?

？！

Then it's settled. We'll go back to Uruk, but what about you, Ana? Will you come with us?

...I didn't sign up for this. I was told we would defeat the goddess.

Don't get so angry. I said I would lead you to the temple, but you understand the current circumstances, don't you?

We can't enter that temple alone. For now, slow and steady wins the race.

...But... going to a human settlement...

？！

...There's no need to shake on it. And no need to be so polite. Just keep away from me.

...All right, fine. For now, I'll leave the forest.

(I have a feeling Ana isn't actually so difficult...)

We've been marching for an entire day. You must be tired, Fujimaru.

But we're almost there. Just hang in there a little longer.

That area is easy to observe. We can finally have a proper operation.

Just a little bit more... One more day, and you should arrive at what I believe is the city of Uruk.

It's easy to observe this area because it's still close to the "former Mesopotamian world."

The only safe place is the area around Uruk, where the king is going strong and maintaining an environment livable for humans.

Northern Mesopotamia has become a kingdom of Demonic Beasts, while the south has become a mysterious jungle that no one returns from.

For humans who survived attacks by Demonic Beasts, the city of Uruk is the only refuge.

...

Now I understand the situation here.

With the rise of the Three Goddess Alliance, the Sumerian city-states have been dealt a devastating blow.

Many cities have been destroyed and many people have fled to Uruk, the center of this world.

The Demonic Beasts' invasion up north is the most serious issue at hand, as they're currently the major force wiping out humanity.

In response, Uruk's king has dissolved the city of Babylon and hastily constructed a great fortress known as the Northern Wall of Uruk.

In other words, Babylonia has turned itself into the front line for the war against Demonic Beasts. It's the last fort protecting the Mesopotamian world. Correct?

Yes. It's still unknown how the King of Mages influenced this era, but if the Demonic Beasts bring down Uruk, human history is finished.

If the first dynasty of Sumer, the blueprint of city-states, is destroyed, there is no certainty in what will become of the human race afterwards.

During the same period, Egypt's first dynasty was also flourishing, but they alone can't preserve the Foundation of Humanity.

Therefore, there are two things you need to do.

First, search for the Holy Grail the King of Mages sent to this era and retrieve it. That should give us an idea about his plot.

Next, take down the Three Goddess Alliance if possible. Although that fight should belong to the people of this era...

...if we do nothing, the Foundation of Humanity can't be restored. This task is beyond our abilities, but it is what we must do.

Not much. Out of the three goddesses, I only know the True Name for one.

There's the goddess controlling all Demonic Beasts up north, the goddess residing in jungles in the south,

then there's the soaring goddess who has no fixed residence.

The biggest threat is the goddess in the north, but the soaring goddess is another problem altogether.

In a way, she's the most troublesome goddess in Mesopotamia, even more so than the goddess controlling the Demonic Beasts.

The people of Uruk are still puzzled over what to do about her.

I was looking for something, under orders from the king. That's also why I was in the Cedar Forest.

I was searching for something called the Tablet of Destinies, but I've put that on hold so I can guide you to Uruk.

？！

...Hmmm. It seems all roads lead to Uruk.

Merlin. Is King Gilgamesh really the one ruling over Uruk now?

Yes, it is indeed King Gilgamesh! The most tyrannical of all ancient kings!

He severed his ties with the gods because of their arrogance! The most beautiful women and treasures are his to own!

The most irrational and unreasonable king who would just as readily kill his followers as his enemies!

？！

Gilgamesh, the King of Heroes. The king of Uruk in ancient Mesopotamia.

He is a historical figure who appeared in the Epic of Gilgamesh, mankind's oldest heroic epic,

as well as other ancient Mesopotamian stories.

His historical name was Bilgamesh, where "bilga" means ancestors, and "mesh" means hero.

His father was King Lugalbanda, a demigod. His mother was the goddess Ninsun.

He was a hero born of god and human, which made him a combination of the two.

In his youth, he was fond of people, while also being a sage grounded in reason,

but he became the complete opposite in his adolescence. He turned into an out-of-control tyrant.

He gathered the land's fortune, demanded prosperity in toil from his citizens, and abandoned the gods as relics of the past.

To admonish him, the gods created the being that appeared before us, Enkidu.

As fate would have it, Enkidu and King Gilgamesh fought for three days and three nights in front of a temple in Uruk.

The battle was a draw. Afterwards, King Gilgamesh recognized Enkidu as his only friend.

His tyranny relaxed a bit and he governed the country while still being feared by the citizens of Uruk.

However...

Yes. King Gilgamesh matured as a king after gaining a friend, but encountered many trials.

Y-yes. After we found out about the era of the Seventh Singularity, I studied so I could be useful to you, Senpai...

？！

Oh, the Cedar of Lebanon story.

King Gilgamesh set foot into the holy ground of the Forest of White Cedars and killed Humbaba, the Demonic Beast guarding it.

Due to Mesopotamia's climate, the country was always in need of lumber.

Bringing home quality cedar was his obligation, as both a king and a hero.

However, his achievement captured the attention of a wicked goddess.

The goddess's curiosity drove her to desire all things unusual, beautiful and praise-worthy.

Who was this wicked goddess you ask? She was Inanna, Queen of Heaven, daughter of An, also known as Ishtar. And she set her sights on Gilgamesh.

The world's greatest goddess confessed her love to the King of Heroes. However, King Gilgamesh rejected her.

Why? Because Gilgamesh knew how coldly she treated her husband Dumuzid.

This must have been quite a shock to Ishtar. To be rejected by a man... by a mere human!

Furious, Ishtar went crying to her father...

...who, out of love for her, gave her something terrible.

A Divine Beast powerful enough to destroy the world... Gugalanna, the Bull of Heaven. With it, Ishtar tried to destroy Uruk.

The bull damaged crops, made the rivers run dry, and summoned a tempest before being defeated by Gilgamesh and Enkidu.

Uruk was saved, but by killing the holy beast, Enkidu incurred the wrath of the gods and for their sins, the gods killed Enkidu.

It was, after all, the gods who created Enkidu in the first place. In modern parlance, the gods flipped Enkidu's off switch.

Honestly. The Mesopotamian gods' greatest fault was being pushovers to their daughters.

Between An and Enki of the Abyss, Ishtar was given a multitude of treasures.

Yes, yes. From that story alone, it's easy to see that Ishtar had a pampered upbringing...

That's right. The death of his only friend, Enkidu, was King Gilgamesh's first real encounter with mortality.

Death claimed even Enkidu, the mighty king's equal. Gilgamesh, in turn, began to wonder whether it was possible to conquer death.

As a result, King Gilgamesh embarked on a quest for immortality. He went to the ends of the earth, descended into the Abyss...

...and at its bottom, obtained the Herb of Rejuvenation. However...

It was stolen by a snake, right?

Gilgamesh returned to the surface and went to bathe. While he soaked, a snake crept in and ate the herb.

And so, snakes gained the ability to shed their skin, and humans forever lost the chance to become immortal.

No one could ever really know what effect that had on the king's state of mind.

Anyway, King Gilgamesh returned to Uruk, but because of his absence, the city had nearly fallen into ruin.

Reflecting on his own selfishness, he decided to try and restore Uruk.

From then on, he never went on quests, instead focusing on his kingly duties.

There you have it. The Epic of Gilgamesh in a nutshell.

The epic was set down in poetry, so we can only imagine what the truth may have been.

Did he really seek out the magical herb because he feared death, or was it because he loathed death?

I think it would be interesting to ask the man himself. Oh, but...

I suppose he isn't the type of person who would speak freely about his memories. Unless you were his traveling companion or something.

The point is, this is a man who had the guts to call a goddess as powerful, though spoiled, as Ishtar a fool and kick her to the curb...

...while bragging about possessing the originals of all the Noble Phantasms and having the greatest advantage over any hero.

Gilgamesh, the King of Heroes, is an extremely arrogant, cold-blooded tyrant. Remember that.

...Yes. And that is the legend of Gilgamesh, King of Heroes. Was it useful, Senpai?

？！

Hahaha. It looks like you don't want to go, Fujimaru!

I can understand that. After all, I'm trembling with fear, too.

And it's a town in 2600 B.C., right? There's a cold-blooded king in a violent world where might makes right.

I'm sure culture shock is inevitable, so you should mentally prepare yourself, yep.

...Excuse me. We've got trouble. Demonic Beasts that have strayed from the pack are heading our way.

...Are you still going to talk? If so, I can handle them alone...

N-no, we'll go! Thank you for pointing them out, Miss Ana!

...No need to use "Miss." But I'd appreciate some extra hands.

It's been three days since we Rayshifted to the ruins of Babylon... Master, we've finally arrived at Uruk.

It looks like we'll have to pass through an inspection checkpoint before we get into the city...

There's still some distance between us. Maybe we can sneak into the city without them noticing...

Yes, hello. I see you're full of energy. I'm glad to see that!

Yeah, good idea. I have a hunch any quarrel here would escalate into a battle...

Oh no! You over there! If you stray from the road, you'll be cursed by the Ritual Sect!

Are you refugees from Ur? Then please be careful. The king has given the Ritual Sect more power, what with it being a war and all...

Uruk is surrounded by a ritual warding the Demonic Beasts, but it seems to have some effects on humans as well.

Oh... okay. Thank you for the warning.

？！

I've never seen you before. Which city are you from?

Oh, they're refugees from Girsu. As for myself, I engage in business. With the Ritual Sect's permission, as you can see.

I'd like to evacuate them into Uruk. Are there any procedures I need to follow?

That's the sigil of Lady Siduri. You may pass.

As for reception of refugees, Nutra's shop in the west market should be good today.

We just received word that the storage space on the second floor is opening up for refugees.

Daily necessities can be picked up at each gate.

You can register as a temporary citizen at Rana's brothel. Please go there if you're planning to stay for more than two weeks.

You must be tired from your long trip. Get some rest first.

Welcome to the city of Uruk. We are fighting to survive, and we spare no efforts if it's for the cause.

O-okay. Thank you very much!

？！

Hmm. Hold on. I can't turn a blind eye on your fellow traveler.

You in the black hood. Yes, you. Stop.

...

(...! Master, Miss Ana has a blade under her robe...!)

...What is it?

I'm impressed you managed to walk all the way here with your small build. ...Here. These are just leftovers, but please take them with you.

They're candies my daughter gave me as an afternoon snack.

...B-but, um. I am, um...

It'd be a great help if you would accept them. You see, these are a little too sweet for me.

...(Nod)

Senpai, you're an adult. Control yourself!

？！

...Then, I'll take just one. Thank you...very much.

No problem. I was stationed here because of my good memory.

I know your faces now, so I hope we meet again alive.

Whether you set forth to battle, or return to your homeland, seeing you alive and well will bring me joy.

New arrivals! New arrivals! Tons of autumn ale in stock!

The newest from Dumuzid Brewery! Our ale is favored even by the king! Now's your chance to enjoy its supreme frothiness! Now's your chance!

Exchanges, exchanges over here! Check out our limited-time Silver exchange package!

Right now, you get 5 Fish Silver for 1 Sheep Silver, and 3 Turtle Silver for 1 Wheat Silver!

If you're gonna eat at our place, I'll toss in a free roasted chicken leg! Bring your own containers!

Folks! The west district is seeking personnel to carry clay!

Those who have muscle should come to the boat station in the city canals before sunrise! Looking forward to your help!

No, wait, the armory needs people too! At this rate, we'll be sending twigs instead of spears to the Northern Wall!

Those that know how to make weapons, come to the armory! Scaffolds can wait till later! Later, I say!

We've got plenty of aid from the king, so if you come to our place, you can make a fortune!

Flowers! This is Merle's Flower Shop! I know you must all be busy from the daily battles...

...but don't forget to put some cheer in your life! Celebrations, gifts for your wives... Ask us about anything!

Wh

Wh

Wh

？！

Yeah. The soldier earlier, the energy on the street... Is this really a city facing the end of the world?

That it is. Welcome to Uruk, the oldest fortress city in human history.

Times may be dire, but the city remains lively. Everyone holds their heads high.

Smoke from the smithies rises everywhere, and the ringing of their hammers echoes day and night.

Yes. Everyone is nervous, and they're in a hurry, but they haven't forgotten to smile.

Despair has no place in this city. It is bustling with the will to fight and the will to survive!

That's not all... Unbelievable... What an efficient cityscape.

Look at that map there. Each district is clearly separated by role, and transportation is perfectly linked!

Military production, construction, commerce, life... It's redesigned to provide for all those things.

How is this an ancient city!? This is a fighting city so perfect that it would even work today!

...

Sumerians started showing up in history around 4000 B.C.. But their civilization was quite elaborate.

It's the oldest human civilization. It began when people abandoned a village-based society hosting thousands...

...and formed city-states housing tens of thousands of people by pioneering crop production boosts through irrigated farming.

Of course, with a country that big, the invention of writing and the implementation of higher education in schools was only a matter of time.

Though they were not blessed with lumber, the fertile lands sandwiched by the two great rivers created quality mud...

...which the Sumerians kneaded to make clay. That, in turn, was used to build many fortresses.

That is Mesopotamia, the land of mud, clay, wheat, and sheep.

Now, Dr. Roman. You called the city "quite barbaric." Do you have anything to say?

...I don't... I'm sorry for underestimating it... I assumed it was just a city-state dependent on trade...

Good. Then we'll save a tour of the city for later. Let's head over to the ziggurat.

A shrine and altar for the Mesopotamians. I believe that giant trapezoidal structure over there is it!

Yeah. There is another shrine honoring Uruk's patron god, but unfortunately that particular deity has not been seen lately.

？！

We're finally meeting King Gilgamesh. Let's head on with all due enthusiasm!