Summoning of an Ancient Legend

[Gareth Gwynfor]

Darkness...

That is what filled the large empty space in the middle of Shinto. The blank field left for nearly an entire century without so much as a single imposing foot of industry. It seemed even those in the business world were superstitious. The memorial left behind to honor those several hundred who lost their lives in the great conflagration. The towering inferno that left nearly half of Fuyuki City in ruin. The fire that left only a handful of survivors.

The blaze was created by the corrupt Kotomine Kirei. A man who was said to be devout to the Church. A brief history of the man showed that he was an Executor for the Church and took on the role of judge for the Holy Grail Wars as do most Kotomine Fathers. His involvement in the Fourth War along with the death of Kotomine Risei made him the perfect substitute for judge. No one really knew what transpired that war immediately afterward, but only a few survived.

His true colors were shown in the events of the Fifth Holy Grail War. Another participant with some history with Kirei revealed everything. Rin Tohsaka, master of the enigma whose name we never truly knew. She told the world everything he had done and how he had worked behind the scenes to manipulate everything in his favor. It was said that Rin Tohsaka and El-Melloi the Second, also known as Waver Velvet another survivor of the Fourth Holy Grail War, destroyed the Grail's form in Fuyuki. However, like clockwork the Holy Grail War began again. No one was sure how this was possible, but it happened all the same.

Another representative was sent to judge the wars as if nothing had changed. They burned down the church and purified the grounds. Even the graves were dug up and burned. Nothing could be left of what Kirei had done. Many protested at first, but all were silenced. The judge was not a direct relative of the Kotomine line, but took up the name none the less. He acted as a judge normally would. Gareth had the opportunity to meet with the judge on his first day in Fuyuki City.

The brand new church stood in the remains of the old. Grass covered the grounds of the church. Only a few new tomestones erected from the ground as the dead flooded back to fill empty ground with their corpses. Some small trees grew in the yard as nature attempted to recover from the Church's purification.

Gareth walked through the main doors of the Church. The first chamber with another set of doors about ten feet in front of him that were side open. He could not see what was to his left or right, but did not care to find out. He entered the main hall of the church seeing the pews and the stand up front. Several stained glass windows allowed limited outside light into the church. They helped very little to alliviate the darkness. To assist in this effort several candles sat around the room giving off a small orange glow here and there. The front was lite by dozens of candles allowing only one area to be reasonably lite.

The blond haired man walked down the aisle passing pew after pew until he reached the very front. Sitting roughly center was a man with well trimmed gray hair reading some kind of novel in the candle light. He lifted his head from the book to observe Gareth walk up to him. He looked over with closed fox eyes before smiling and closing his book.

"Ah it's good to meet you Gareth Gwynfor. Thank the Lord for safe travel," he said in a soft voice. The words came out like the words of a wise old man, but still had a sense of youth to it.

"Of course Father," Gareth said, "I trust the Mage's Association has performed all the tasks prior to my arrival?"

The Father nodded a few times, "Yes yes Gareth everything has been taken care of." He turned his back to Gareth and took a few steps. The Father faced Gareth once again with a frown on his face. "I don't like giving you this information. I'm not at liberty to give away the identities of the Masters."

Gareth nodded to this, "I completely understand Father. The only reason I need to know is I represent the Mage's Association's Enforcers as well as play a role as a Master in this war. I only wish to know who is participating. I will need to come back on a regular basis to gather information."

The Father kept his grim expression, but sighed. "It can't be helped I suppose. There only a handful of registered Masters and even fewer have had a chance to summon their Servants." The Father lifted a small folded piece of parchment from his coat pocket. He unfolded it with slow hands and placed a pair of reading glasses on the bridge of his nose.

"Let's see here...to start we have Mariele Clarisviel von Einzbern. She was one of the earliest to register. She too lived in the area and has worked with me once or twice as the war began." Gareth traced the information in his mind as the mental files opened based on the name.

The newest head of the Einzbern Family working as the heir while the Nineth head continued to oversee the family. She had a bumpy road through her academics, but was a genius in all aspects. She disappeared off the map for a while, reports indicate that she hid in America during this time, before appearing on the doorstep of the Einzbern manor. She worked in silence for many years only coming out to report her accomplishments. Accomplishments that brought her much too much fame. Her first was the new style of homunculus that nearly mimicked the human life-cycle. The other was the Mystic Code she created that worked near identically to a Philosopher's Stone. The alchemic scholars were dumbfounded at its abilities. Apparently it was almost on par with the legendary stone crafted by Nicholas Flamel. Something akin to magic lost in the days of old. She was issued a Sealing Designation to research within Clocktower and work with the leading scholars. It was suppose to be a bright future for her. She ran away to Japan where she hid in Fuyuki City. The Enforcers were first sent to retrieve her, but failed. It was decided to leave her alone as she probably only wanted the Holy Grail which she wouldn't be able to get in Clocktower. They said they would apprehend her after the War and hopefully make up for lost time.

The Father looked upon Gareth with a confused expression as he zoned out. "Gareth? Are you ok?"

"Oh!" he said shocked, "I apologize please go on Father."

He gave a kind smile as he continued reading, "Our next one is named Chao Rinshen."

"El Melloi the Third," Gareth muttered. Another with a Sealing Designation. She was a genius upstart with no background. She quickly went past all other magus her age and began to come up with theories that brought controversy. Her ideas of integrating magecraft and technology was an idea never entertained before. Many said she had no pride. She was issued a Sealing Designation to guarantee her safety. However, just as the Seventh Holy Grail began she vanished. Not exactly surprising. Gareth looked back on the Father who was giving a very similar look. "Just a title Father."

"The last one was added just recently. Her family reported that she may have summoned a Servant from evidence of a circle in their basement. They claim that she has run away and has gone rogue. No one has been sent to apprehend her due to the fear of her Servant fighting against them. Her name is Veronica Barthomeloi."

Gareth gave a perplexed expression at the mention of the final name. The Father shared a concerned look once again, but Gareth brushed the thoughts aside. "I suppose the allure of wishes brings all of the runaways here," he said flatly.

The Father gave a shrug as he placed his reading glasses away and the parchment back into his pocket, "I wouldn't know, that's the work of the Mage's Association."

"Thank you for the information Father. The donations are currently in the works and if you require anything please just ask." Gareth gave a small bow to show his gratitude. "I will be taking my leave now Father."

//Day 1; 03:55 A.M. - Fuyuki Central Park; Shinto, Fuyuki//

A cold breeze blew through the dead silent park causing the leaves to stir and the grass to sway. Anyone who walked through this park may compare this breeze to the hands of the deceased running down their spines. All the superstition that surrounded this park even gave those who shied away from such the chills. Baseless rumors and overactive imaginations.

A lone figure stood in the center of the park unaware of the legend and unaffected by the chilly night. His fair complexion, blond hair, and white top below his vest betrayed his presence in the dark fields. The night was silent and black. The new moon left only the few stars that could peak through the bright lights of Fuyuki's modern half. Gareth personally preferred nights like these to say nights with a full moon.

The man found a spot that he liked. Throwing the bag he held aside it landed with a wet sound as it hit the ground. He relinquished a note from his pocket with an intriquet design upon it. He studied it for several minutes before closing his eyes and holding out his hand.

"Crash"

A barely audible whisper escaped his lips before the sound of a rushing freight train filled the park air for no more than a second. The grass had been ripped from the ground from the force of the magic. A complex circle outlined by a two inch deep indention was carved from the earth. Gareth looked upon his handiwork for a few seconds before becoming satisfied.

He focused a different magic upon his hand taking the form of a red glow upon his index finger. He drew a series of runes upon the air that hung there like a crimson flame. Afterward he knelled down next to the sack he had tossed aside. He turned over the sack and dumped the contents upon the ground. Several carcasses of recently deceased animals lay in a pile. There was no correlation existed between the animals as they were all sick or injured creatures Gareth had come across throughout Fuyuki today. Choosing to take the lives of animals in bad situations rather than those of perfect health. It made his work more difficult, but easier on his conscience at the end of the day.

The runes began to tear away from their stationary position turning into a stream of red light that flew into the carcasses on the ground. Their corpses glowed with a soft light that slowly engulfed them from within. Once it seemed as though they had reached their peak the light began to fade. Through their orifices and open wounds the blood within them poured out. Coagulated or not the blood was once again made fresh as it exited their bodies, glowing with a soft red light, and splashing upon the engraved seal. The blood filled in the circle until it leveled out just at ground level.

This is where the real work began. Gareth took a deep breath as he activated all of his magical circuits. It was just around four o'clock in the morning. He always felt at his best at this time. His superiors said that he needed to perform the summoning at the best moment of the day to get the absolute best results. As he finished his breathing exercises he began to 'flex' his magical circuits to prepare himself. The air felt as though it were thickening. Clotting in the air. The vision phenomenon was described to him as a sudden downpour of black rain and static laying over the natural view. Gareth himself didn't feel any of this, but longed to know what this may feel like.

He relinquished a small box from his pocket that held within it his catalyst for summoning. It was said to be the tattered remains of the robes that Enkidu wore. The mundanes used a process called "Carbon-Dating" and claimed it was old enough to work with the epic. Gareth couldn't be too sure. He meant to alter his incantation to remove all insecurities he had. Even if he managed to summon Enkidu he feared that he may fall into an unfavorable class. It was rumored that Enkidu would be summoned as a Lancer class, though his research turned up no results as to how this were possible. He wanted to avoid this outcome as Lancer's often suffer tragedies in the Holy Grail Wars. To be Lancer was suffering. He too took precautions for this, and planned to add the "Berserk" command to his incantation. One could never be too careful.

His hair stood on end as he finished warming up. His magical circuits were ready. Soon he would have his servant. His blood ran cold from excitement and the air stuck in his lungs as the tension held him back. Even still he pushed forward not backing down.

A bold voice pierced the chilled night air in the dead of night. Not a soul was in the park or for that matter in the immediate mile excluding those in their homes more than likely asleep. Now was the perfect time to perform the summoning in an outdoor place. One where nature would be able to play a role in the summoning.

"Ye first, O silver, O iron." Gareth's deep voice called out, the magic already beginning to work. "O stone of the foundation, O Archduke of the Contract. Hear me in the name of our great teacher, the Archmagus Schweinorg." Personally Gareth only knew the bare basics of Schweinorg, thus his massive importance in the summoning was some what lost upon the man. "Let the descending winds be as a wall. Let the gates in all directions be shut, rising above the crown, and let the three-forked roads to the Kingdom revolve."

The circle began to glow a pale blue light. The magic was focusing on the crest inscribed on the ground. The concentration of prana increasing with each passing second. Gareth purposely took a breath here to lengthen the process only slightly. His resolve remained as strong and his body was still ready.

"Fill." The air seemed to crackle with energy. "Fill." The circle intensified in its glow. "Fill." The crest upon his hand began to burn intensely as if a hot iron pressed upon it. "Fill!" The entirety of his ability was focused at this point. His whole body was working to produce the largest prana boom it had ever done. "FILL!"

At the final command the circle burst into a pillar of pale blue light. It could have been his prana or just an effect of the dark night. The pillar reached high above the trees as violent winds blew through the park. Surely if anyone were walking about they would be curious and take notice, but the rumors of the park would keep them away.

"Five perfections for each repetition. And now, let the filled sigils be annihilated in my stead!" His conviction remained clear as his voice commanded above the wind and light. His presence exceeding that of the circle. He remained the dominant force in this storm of chaos. "Let thy body rest under my dominion, let my fate rest in thy blade. The great beast-man, product of Anu. Heed the call of the Holy Grail. If thou hears my cry then thou must respond. Obey this mind, this reason, and thou shalt respond!" The altered verse that called for Enkidu and only Enkidu. Only he would hear Gareth's cry as he sought to summon him. If Enkidu declined then the circle would fade.

The bright blue light and the violent winds said otherwise. They persisted and the magic continued to erupt forth. He had certainly heard his cry. Gareth bared a toothy grin as he continued his summoning with Enkidu as his sole audience.

"I make my oath here. I am that person who is become the virtue of all Heaven. I am that person who is covered with the evil of all Hades." The light intensified as the pillar began to spiral about chaotically. The light must have meant that Enkidu was excited by Gareth's call.

"But, thine eyes are clouded by chaos. Thou, bound in the cage of madness. I am he who commands those chains." His call caused the pillar of light to shoot back down into the circle for a moment. All became dark as if Enkidu had declined his summoning. Gareth allowed for a moment of fear. Then the circle erupted again. This time the light had changed to a dark purple and spiraled around the circle spewing outward. The light engulfed Gareth at first, but parted so that he were still visible to the circle. The "Berserk" command had been taken fully.

"Thou seven heavens, clad in a trinity of words, come past thy restraining rings, and be thou the hands that protect the balance-!"

At that very moment the circle exploded outward with dark purple light. It filled Gareth's vision completely. The sound of rushing wind took away his hearing. He couldn't even smell anything beside broken grass and strewn dirt. The storm of chaos engulfed all before calming as if nothing had occurred. A great cloud of dust and smoke filled the area. Gareth's breath came out in small bursts as he awaited to see the results of his labor. Any moment now the smoke would clear revealing his Servant before him. No one other than Enkidu could stand before him.

[Enkidu]

Day 1; 04:01 A.M. - Fuyuki Central Park; Shinto, Fuyuki

"Ye first, O silver, O iron." Gareth's deep voice called out, the magic already beginning to work. "O stone of the foundation, O Archduke of the Contract. Hear me in the name of our great teacher, the Archmagus Schweinorg. Let the descending winds be as a wall. Let the gates in all directions be shut, rising above the crown, and let the three-forked roads to the Kingdom revolve."

"Oh? I see we have someone calling out to me. We shall see young Magus. Continue your call and we will see whom you truly call out to." Enkidu said playfully, His pure white room was filled with a blue light. The single chair there was turning into a tree and the world itself was warping to fit a natural feel.

"Fill." The room's nature was growing faster. "Fill." It's nature was now nearly matching the outskirts of Uruk. "Fill." The room was now starting to match the jungle where He and Gilgamesh wrestled the Divine Beast. "Fill!" Now it was a beautiful lush forest, something Enkidu was admiring this man was doing to his room. "FILL!"

It was amazing, even to Enkidu the perfect combination of nature and man. It was the forest that even gods would dream of as a garden, life could be seen from each and every plant. Each one would glisten as if it just finished raining, birds could be heard but above all the noises one voice was heard. This man whom was trying to summon Enkidu.

"Five perfections for each repetition. And now, let the filled sigils be annihilated in my stead!" The forest looked as if a small path was being formed, but it was nothing major. Only to Enkidu's trained eye could he notice the difference of the forest's floor. "Let thy body rest under my dominion, let my fate rest in thy blade. The great beast-man, product of Anu. Heed the call of the Holy Grail. If thou hears my cry then thou must respond. Obey this mind, this reason, and thou shalt respond!" Enkidu stood there as the voice echoed through out his beautiful forest, "Continue young magus, I wish to see what your capabilities are." Enkidu said to the forest. With him agreeing to such a thing the forest floor continued making it's slow path.

"I make my oath here. I am that person who is become the virtue of all Heaven. I am that person who is covered with the evil of all Hades." Enkidu's eyes glistened with excitement, only one man was bold enough, arrogant enough, strong enough to say such a line. This magus spoke it as if it was the truth, Enkidu felt a feeling of excitement that he hadn't felt in a long time. He smiled to himself gently and listened to this man's call.

"But, thine eyes are clouded by chaos. Thou, bound in the cage of madness. I am he who commands those chains." Enkidu's smile faded as he murmured a single word, "What?" stumbling backwards Enkidu felt a surge of rage over take him. He felt pure anger that he hasn't felt in a long time either, it wasn't a welcomed feeling. He couldn't control it though, he roared as he tore through the forest chasing after the path. Like a mad beast he ran on all fours to see where the exit was leading towards, his eyes glowed red and he could no longer speak. Enkidu was now under the effects of Mad Enhancement, however in his mind he could speak coherently and was logical. But for poor Enkidu it was like watching a mad dog take control of his body and rush after a rabbit.

"Thou seven heavens, clad in a trinity of words, come past thy restraining rings, and be thou the hands that protect the balance-!" Enkidu's body found the exit, it stood up right and ran into the pure white light. "▂▂▃▃▄▄▅▅!" He roared with the smoke clearing, then he stopped moving. He hung his head as he found himself in the white room once more, "Shamhat..." He spoke so softly. There stood Shamhat glaring at him, "Enkidu! What is wrong with you! Stop acting like a Mad Dog! I civilized you and Gilgamesh taught you the ways of a man. Now you revert to this state? I am disappointed in you. Now go back there and greet that man properly." She scolded him and Enkidu had shrunk back for most of the scolding until she told him to go back and greet the man properly. The room disappeared and before him stood his master, "I'm sorry about that, I lost myself there for a moment." Enkidu explained with a gentle smile. He brushed his hair behind him and spoke the most recited line in all of the war, almost as if he rehearsed it a thousand times it came out flawlessly. "Are you my master?"

[Gareth Gwynfor]

Day 1; 04:04 A.M. - Fuyuki Central Park; Shinto, Fuyuki

It was quiet for a moment as the dust stirred. A soft breeze was quickly blowing the airborne debris elsewhere, but not fast enough as far as Gareth was concerned. The moments were taking an eternity to pass. Gareth knew standing just beyond this veil of dust was the great beast-man Enkidu. A servant on the level of Gilgamesh, King of Heroes. Someone who would hopefully be much better to deal with.

A low rumbling hit Gareth's ears. His blue eyes widened as the rumbling grew louder. A primal fear seized in his chest as his blood ran cold. A great fear unnoticed until took hold. By becoming a Berserker Enkidu would become more beast than man. If Gareth didn't act fast Enkidu could go on a full rampage. It would only be a matter of time before he ran out of prana to support him, and they both disappear.

"▂▂▃▃▄▄▅▅!"

The sound alone was enough to send Gareth reeling back as if hit by a semi-truck. A cold sweat wet his neck. The dust was beginning to settle. He could only imagine what manner of horrible beast could await the moment in which its sight would return. He held his arm forward; Command Seal at the ready. The moment he laid sight on the beast he would issue a command to calm down. No chances could be taken.

"I'm sorry about that, I lost myself there for a moment." The soft voice was unmatchable to the great roar he had heard just moment's before. Gareth stood dumbfounded as his left hand grasp his right. The Command Seal ablaze just waiting for an order. The feminine being brushed a few stray hairs away from its face as if nothing had occurred. "Are you my master?"

Gareth's body relaxed, but his mind was still running on edge. He couldn't comprehend the situation he was in currently. He was sure that his Servant, the great Enkidu, had arrived in this world in Mad Enhancement. Yet there he stood as calm and un-berserker like as possible. A hand met his face as he collected himself. After a sigh and a sweep across his head Gareth addressed Enkidu. His own philosophy taking charge.

"No." Gareth said flatly. It took him a second to realize that that was probably not the best answer. He quickly righted himself. "Wait, yes," he said showing Enkidu his Command Seals, which were in the shape of a Scandinavian rune not used for magic whose meaning meant "Great Beast".

Gareth took in a breath as he approached the green haired servant, "I mean to say I am your Master. As far as the contract of the Holy Grail goes I am the Master who summoned you," he said clarifying the situation, "I cannot accept such a title though. As we are both human in spirit I cannot pretend to act above you. I would like to have a different relationship where we both stand on equal grounds. Rather than Master or Servant, I would like to be Partners."

A few seconds past after Gareth's heartfelt proposal to Enkidu he began to speak again. This time not as formally or with as much composure as he had previously. "I have to ask are you the beast-man Enkidu?" This being did not appear as he thought Enkidu would. The feminine, almost frail, build he possessed didn't match up with someone who was known for being on the level of Gilgamesh and leveled a city with a wrestling match. "For that matter are you Berserker-class? A roar the likes of which I just heard couldn't have been produced by you?" Gareth meant no disrespect, but this Servant seemed incapable of such. He didn't even come up to Gareth's height sitting just a head or so shorter. He face was filled with child-like curiosity as he watched the green-haired being closely.

[Enkidu]

Day 1; 04:08 A.M. - Fuyuki Central Park; Shinto, Fuyuki

"No." Enkidu paused for a moment before thinking to himself, "Is he playing around with me or is he an idiot?" As if hearing Enkidu's thought the man quickly corrected himself. "Wait,yes," He even showed his command seals to reinforce this fact, however Enkidu didn't care about the command seals. They were useless as he was already loyal by nature, "I mean to say I am your Master. As far as the contract of the Holy Grail goes I am the Master who summoned you," Enkidu nodded his head to show he was following along. It was only natural for him to be the master of Enkidu if he summoned him.

"I cannot accept such a title though. As we are both human in spirit I cannot pretend to act above you. I would like to have a different relationship where we both stand on equal grounds. Rather than Master or Servant, I would like to be Partners." Enkidu tilted his head to the right as if pondering what he said, it wasn't like someone to consider Enkidu human. "Well, technically I'm half human." Enkidu said correcting the man before him. It was merely him trying to explain that he doesn't need to be treated as a human, he was a servant. All he wanted from his master was some respect and trust from him.

"I have to ask are you the beast-man Enkidu?" Confusing Enkidu to even more of an extent he tilted his head once more, "Well Master- I mean Partner, Who else could you have summoned? Was I not satisfactory during the summoning? Do I not appear as Enkidu to you?" Enkidu asked innocently, he really wasn't trying to be mean only try to understand what the man meant. "For that matter are you Berserker-class? A roar the likes of which I just heard couldn't have been produced by you?" Enkidu smiled at the man finally hinting at why he wasn't sure he summoned Enkidu.

"I assure you I am Berserker-class, I have a personal skill that allows me to calm down from the curse known as Mad Enhancement. So it's only natural I use it to not waste prana no? As for that roar, I can easily produce something much more fierce than that if you wish." Enkidu said explaining everything with a matter of fact tone. Clearing his throat one could only prepare themselves for what Enkidu, the beast-man would have in-store for them. After a dramatic pause of taking in air Enkidu breathed out slowly, he then took in air and roared.

"Gaooooow" Enkidu perhaps did the least terrifying thing he could have done. It was more adorable and sad at the same time, one if in a different situation would find it adorable. But it was only disappointment that could have been felt here. Feeling proud of his roar Enkidu was puffed up with pride, "There Partner, did that clear up any misunderstandings you might have?" Enkidu said smiling with his eyes closed and his chest puffed out. His hands were behind his back as if trying to be modest but his tone and words said otherwise.

Who on earth told this beast-man that such a roar was fierce? The world may never know whom did such a thing- "Gilgamesh told me my roar was fierce enough to scare the pet cat away from me for a week. Oh and the cat was a lion the king of animals! So imagine how scary that must of been for the lion!" Enkidu said while waving his arms around to illustrate the lion and to emphasis how scary it must have been.

[Gilgamesh]

Day 1; 04:12 A.M. - Fuyuki Central Park; Shinto, Fuyuki

Within the stagnant air of Fuyuki Central Park, two presences lingered. At this early hour, the park was usually empty...and surely, the place had been secured before some idiot magus had proceeded with summoning his Servant in such a place. These second presence which had been called forth by the first was also an idiot. Which one of the two was more stupid, though, was up for debate. Either the magus who thought he could get away with bribing the church, or the "fearsome" Berserker who had so quickly grown tame and intimidating. Yet, once summoned into the world, the Mad Enhancement had still blinded him, and the servant had let out a terrifying roar which had pierced the night air.

That roar gave away his Servant class to the approaching, third presence. Originally, Gilgamesh had been atop an apartment penthouse suite overlooking Shinto part of Miyama in the distance. He had stopped appreciating his city when the presence of another Heroic Spirit had caught his attention. Gilgamesh believed the abruptness with which the presence of the Servant appeared signified that the trespasser was Assassin. However, as Gilgamesh quickly bent the laws of space and time by using spirit form to travel more quickly towards the newcomer's presence, that roar shook the air as Gilgamesh entered into the park. As an Archer, Gilgamesh was only bound to sense such a nearby Servant...and the fact that this Servant was a Berserker meant the King of Heroes would likely not be noticed until it was too late for the pair of idiots.

The shimmering kaleidoscope of light likely remained unseen and unfelt by either Master or Servant, since he had appeared whilst the two were apparently deep in conversation. Gilgamesh had re-solidified behind a large tree, and lingered for a moment to survey his enemies. This wasn't honestly his style of reconnaissance, but Gilgamesh had been feeling restless, and so confronting this audacious trespasser had seemed like a good stress reliever. In short, Gilgamesh planned to take out his anxious feelings and unease upon the innocent Master and Servant pair, to play with the until they died or he grew bored. This plan changed, however, when Gilgamesh stepped out from behind the tree - still unintentionally concealed by shadows - and he laid eyes upon the Servant within the circle.

Before his eyes stood a man...a man whom had lived in his time, and by his side. Gilgamesh, the unshakable King of Heroes, actually hesitated as he stared in disbelief. Yet, if his eyes deceived him, then so did his ears. And that simply was not possible: the King of Heroes was not a man easily fooled by magecraft or tricks. The long, soft green hair which fell gracefully around and behind the man's shoulders. The tall, lithe form of the Servant, and his archaic choice of wear. And then, as if the sight before him was not enough to convince him that the only man he had ever considered his equal stood before him...

"Gaooooow!"

The King of Heroes had not heard that sound since his original life on Earth. The sound of his friend and brother trying to intimidate someone by roaring, usually the giant housecat Gilgamesh kept as a pet. And the roar was, of course, no more fearsome in this day and age. And Gilgamesh's left eye twitched for just a moment. He remembered how much he loathed that sound, and it had always hurt the large lion's ears, which had caused it to sulk off. A frown was upon Gilgamesh's lips, and all joy he had experienced and considered showing at Enkidu's presence was gone. While Enkidu tried to tell his Master how fearsome he was, these mirthful feelings were replaced by feelings of irritation. Without hesitating further, Gilgamesh narrowed his crimson eyes upon the man, and utilized his still open Gate of Babylon.

In an instant, numerous blades - no, numerous weapons - had lodged themselves in the ground upon which the summoning circle had been drawn. Not a single one had hit the man within the circle, but any other creature within it would have been slaughtered. A trident said to be wielded by the Greek deity Poseidon, a hammer which crackled dangerously with violent arcs of electricity, a battle-axe which had cleaved the ground like a hot knife across a bar of butter. The ground around Enkidu was ruined, and for a moment the numerous weapons would block Enkidu's sight of his Master. Then, as quickly as they had come, they disappeared. Gilgamesh - still clad in only his loincloth and boots, jewelry aside - stepped now into the moonlight. A scowl was upon his face, and he spoke with quiet anger in his voice.

"I believe I told you to stop making that noise, ye God among men." The haughty voice quickly lost its edge, and Gilgamesh came to a stop opposite the magus, behind Enkidu. "It has been countless generations since we last embraced, and yet you do the one thing I didn't miss about you. I've told you before, my brother...if a younger sibling disobeys, then it is the right of his older brother to punish him, not out of hatred but love. Restrain yourself from making that dreadful, grating sound, King of the Beasts. And do not try to deceive your Master, for I never told you it inspired fear. I specifically said it hurt Felix's ears, idiot."

[Gareth Gwynfor]

//Day 1; 04:15 A.M. - Fuyuki Central Park; Shinto, Fuyuki//

Gareth paid close attention to his Servant. Enkidu added his own thoughts or concerns in between Gareth's questions bring reactions of his own. He didn't mind that Enkidu was only 'half-human.' It was the principle of the thing. He couldn't bring himself to treat as if they were anything but human.

When questioned as to who he was Enkidu seemed just as confused as Gareth. It wasn't until Gareth explained the roar that Enkidu understood what he meant. He puffed up from the comment obviously proud of his roar. He spoke of recreating the roar that rattled Gareth to the core. The beast-man cleared his throat and took in a deep breath. Gareth's body tensed up as he awaited the blast of sound. A nervous sweat rolled down his brow as the moment of truth came. He was sure that he would brave the roar much better a second time.

"Gaooooow"

Gareth stood frozen for a minute. His eyes had unconsciously shut themselves. His mind was reeling back instead of his body this time. The 'roar' as Enkidu called it was nothing in comparison to the roar he had heard as the summoning was completed. This exercise was to rid Gareth of any doubts, but this simply created more of them. His eyes opened and looked upon his Partner with disbelief. Enkidu stood there as proud as he could be by his roar.

"There Partner, did that clear up any misunderstandings you might have?" he said with a boastful grin. "Gilgamesh told me my roar was fierce enough to scare the pet cat away from me for a week. Oh and the cat was a lion the king of animals! So imagine how scary that must of been for the lion!"

Gareth couldn't comprehend this last statement. He knew all about Gilgamesh by his researching their very close legends. Surely in days where the Earth was a more savage place there couldn't be such a vast cultural difference that that roar would be intimidating. Gareth knew not what to say whether to pull Enkidu on or to object to the ferocity of the roar. It seemed that he might have the chance of offending his servant. That was until another guest made an appearance.

The ground around Enkidu was torn asunder by a mass assortment of weapons. At least a dozen lay in the ground. None of which hit Enkidu nor Gareth. Many iconic weapons lay there. Gareth's eyes examined each and every one of them. Though he could only speculate which weapons they were he still felt an immensely powerful legend behind each.

The hammer of the Thunder God Thor, Mjolnir. The iconic trident of Poseidon. A great battle axe wielded by Herewald the Wake. A sword that glowed with the light of the sun, Claíomh Solais. A great sword whose edge looked sharp enough to slice through a man by touching them, The Stormblade. A halberd of japanese design, Ame-no-nuboko. And many more great weapons that Gareth couldn't recall. So many legendary weapons with legends that have nothing to do with one another.

Only one man, or should he say Heroic Spirit, had an arsenal capable of such production. Gareth turned around slowly to peer behind him to spy the source of such legends. In the scarce light of the park he could spy a sole figure. His hair was a bright gold that matched jewelry that lay on his form. His body was bare excluding a cloth wrapped around his waist. His flawless white skin almost allowed him to be seen in the dark. A small smirk came across his face.

"I know where the horns of the Divine Bull disappeared to now," he said in a low voice.

He recognized the Servant as Gilgamesh, King of Heroes. He was obviously still of the Archer class wielding his iconic Gate of Babylon. After appearing in two Holy Grail Wars back to back there was enough information floating around about him to easily tell who he was. He was as famous as King Arthur, or should he say Arturia Pendragon. The human moved to fully face the greatest legend, and brother to the Servant he himself had summoned.

His eyes showed admiration as he held a happy smile upon his face to meet someone closely related to Enkidu. Perhaps he wouldn't be as happy if he could know the thoughts many figures were having about his dealings with the Moderator and Supervisor of the war. Surely it would be those of a weak mind to automatically assume that it was some kind of 'under-the-table' deal. The Mage's Association made their point obvious. It was not their nor Gareth's fault that the Moderator, Father Cornello as he was apparently called, was a cheat in his own right by taking all of the favor and not reporting it to the Church. Though arguing this meant nothing at the current moment.

"The King of Heroes, it is an honor to have caught your attention with my summoning. I do hope I hadn't disturbed you so early in the morning." Gareth called out to Gilgamesh with a confident yet respectful tone. He glanced over his shoulder to look at Enkidu who no doubt would have some sort of reaction to seeing his brother from life before facing Gilgamesh again. "I will remove myself to avoiding being a bother." He turned to Enkidu for a moment, "I'll remain close by and wait until you call me back."

Gareth proceeded to walk away from the summoning circle and his servant. He planned to put plenty of distance between himself and the two servants, but remain close enough to at least watch their interactions. He feared he would only get in the way if he stayed there. His eyes never left Gilgamesh's though as he walked. The instant he felt any sort of hostility, the moment anything along the lines of a light or action, Gareth would launch himself away from the current area. A sudden burst of speed from his runes might be enough to avoid being skewered in one barrage. He had no plans after that. He hoped that Gilgamesh's arrival was one of peaceful intention rather than an act of conflict. Surely Gilgamesh would have something he would like to say to Enkidu after being reunited after so long.

[Enkidu]

//Day 1; 04:17 A.M. - Fuyuki Central Park; Shinto, Fuyuki//

Enkidu's eyes widened at the feeling of another servant, he didn't recognize it before it was too late. The area around him was carpet bombed with weapons, each one having some form of divinity leaking from it. Enkidu looked through the blades for his master despite knowing his line of sight was cut off. Soon the blades disappeared, just as fast as they appeared, his master was fine with let Enkidu's mind rest. However the servant was still around, Enkidu was prepared for battle until the voice rang through out the air.

"I believe I told you to stop making that noise, ye God among men." It sliced through the air and made way for the voice of the true king. The king from ancient times whom none challenged, the one who had Enkidu's true undying loyalty.

"Gilgamesh..." Enkidu muttered as he saw him step into the moon light, he wasn't scared nor was he sad. Tears still welled in his eyes from remembering on how he left this great man, this true king, crying by his corpse like a child with out its mother. Enkidu hated that the most about his death, it affected Gilgamesh too much for him to ever think of looking him in the eye once more. But he knew this man was glad to see him, this was his brother, his true partner. Enkidu looked upon Gilgamesh's perfect body, it was even more perfect than Enkidu's he believe. Truly this beast-man valued the opinion of Gilgamesh more than any other. Tracing up Gilgamesh's body up to his eyes Enkidu saw no hostile intention. He held only gentleness of an older brother that one Enkidu would recognize.

"It has been countless generations since we last embraced, and yet you do the one thing I didn't miss about you. I've told you before, my brother...if a younger sibling disobeys, then it is the right of his older brother to punish him, not out of hatred but love. Restrain yourself from making that dreadful, grating sound, King of the Beasts. And do not try to deceive your Master, for I never told you it inspired fear. I specifically said it hurt Felix's ears, idiot." The king scolded Enkidu playfully, he truly hasn't changed since their last encounter. Enkidu looked up at his brother smiling like he always has, he couldn't lie to anyone much less Gilgamesh. However the story he told was not a fabrication merely it was Enkidu distorting the memory as it was so long ago.

As for his mighty roar, he remembered why he never was allowed to in the city. Everyone laughed and the girls would play with him calling him 'cute' and such. Gilgamesh would hate the sound as if it was hell itself coming from Enkidu. Thus every time he tried to roar he was scolded and resulted in getting a gentle smack from a pillow near by.

"The King of Heroes, it is an honor to have caught your attention with my summoning. I do hope I hadn't disturbed you so early in the morning." His master- partner called out to Gilgamesh as if to keep him at peace. He would've been better off staying quiet and getting out of the way if this was the desired result. Even Enkidu could tell that confronting Gilgamesh during such a scene would lead to either his wrath or mercy. This almost always ended up being wrath, Enkidu never blamed him though, for he is the king and the king must make such decisions daily. So it is obvious after a while Gilgamesh treated it as if it was nothing.

"I will remove myself to avoiding being a bother." His master- partner then turned to Enkidu for a moment "I'll remain close by and wait until you call me back." Obviously he was trying to appease both of them. Enkidu however was fine with his master staying but if Gilgamesh didn't wish for it then it can't be helped. As he master retreated to a safe distance Enkidu walked slowly towards Gilgamesh. He truly did miss his brother though, they had much to speak of and Enkidu couldn't wait.

"Come mighty king, Let us embrace once more. It truly has been ages and I apologize for what I have done tonight to upset you. But allow me to be forgiven just this once, I was simply forgetful about my roar." Enkidu was practically a step away from Gilgamesh, He opened his arms to accept his brother. His wish was granted by the holy grail war. Perhaps Enkidu's only goal now was to ensure either Gilgamesh or his master gained it. Enkidu smiled softly towards Gilgamesh as if to entice him for the embrace, surely the King of Heroes would never deny his brother a simple embrace.

[Gilgamesh]

//Day 1; 04:18 A.M. - Fuyuki Central Park; Shinto, Fuyuki//

"I know where the horns of the Divine Bull disappeared to now."

Gilgamesh heard first the voice not of his brother, but of a presence he had purposefully ignored. To tell the truth, Gilgamesh had initially held no interest in the presence of the "Master" of his brother and friend, even though he had vaguely mentioned him and recognized this magus as Enkidu's Master. Gilgamesh's crimson gaze had been focused on his brother, but as if to put himself on the chopping block, this presumptuous human dared to stand before him. The Master of Enkidu had not approached him respectfully as Gilgamesh was accustomed to, and he practically forced the King of Heroes to acknowledge his presence. Had this ignorant, foolish magus summoned anyone but Enkidu the Beast King, Gilgamesh would have most likely skewered the human on the spot the moment he interrupted the King of Heroes’ attempt to confront another Heroic Spirit.

"The King of Heroes," The magus began, in - at the very least - decently reverent tone. Gilgamesh turned his focus briefly upon this bold magus, who likely did not realize how close he had come to getting skewered before even Enkidu might do anything to protect his Master. But because this magus had called upon Enkidu, Gilgamesh was willing to stay his temper for now. If Gilgamesh removed this man from his sight as he often did to unsightly humans, then Enkidu's existence in this realm might be shortened.

"It is an honor to have caught your attention with my summoning. I do hope I hadn't disturbed you so early in the morning."

This input from the magus internally calmed the King of Heroes down just a little. Truly, if Enkidu had not been the one standing before him, and a human had dared interrupt the King's interest in any Heroic Spirit...well, then Gareth would have gotten a much closer look at some of the King's treasures he had taken a moment to admire and recognize. Gilgamesh took no interest in the corrupt magus' affairs, or the corruption of the Church. If anyone could rightly accuse this simple-minded magus of vice, who demonstrated corruption by exploiting the corruption of others, then it was the King of Heroes who stood worthy to judge him. But the only interest Gilgamesh had in judging humans, typically, was whether or not they were worthy to stand before him. And because of the Servant this magus had summoned, Gilgamesh had temporarily given him a pass, as it were, to speak out of turn.

"I will remove myself to avoiding being a bother. I'll remain close by and wait until you call me back."

"Tch. If that was your goal in the first place, you would have been better off simply holding your tongue and receding into the background, magus." Gilgamesh said, quietly but with subtle venom saturating his tone. Gareth would have been able to hear Gilgamesh's remark, but likely was smart enough to keep any rebuttal to himself. The famed generosity and mercy of the King of Heroes could only be trod upon so much before giving way to the wrath of the One, True King. Luckily for Gareth, though, that verbal jab was all Gilgamesh offered him in the way of reprimand.

Within seconds of making that remark and visually confirming through his peripheral vision that the human was moving to one side, Gilgamesh again turned his gaze upon the glorious man among beasts who stood before him. After so long without seeing his companion, Gilgamesh was again able to lay eyes upon his brother. Even the audacious behavior of Gareth was only able to slightly irk the King of Heroes when he was in this good of a mood. He had not been sure he would ever see Enkidu again, and so it was a relief and a joy to be in the presence of the Greatest of Men. Enkidu saw his Master off, and began to approach Gilgamesh. Despite being recognized by the King himself as his only equal, Enkidu spoke modestly and with no intention of flattery: the appeal to his brother and friend were sincere, full of respect and admiration of the King.

"Come mighty king, Let us embrace once more. It truly has been ages and I apologize for what I have done tonight to upset you. But allow me to be forgiven just this once, I was simply forgetful about my roar."

Those were the only words that were needed to calm the ire of the Golden Knight. Enkidu had always been the exact opposite of Gilgamesh, and as his closest friend, it had always been Enkidu who could cause the King to stay his hand. Though, even the King of Beasts knew that Gilgamesh's judgment was just and that his mercy would only be extended for so long before more firm measures had to be administered by the King. In short, Enkidu was wise to quickly gather the attention of his friend, though tonight such a measure was uncalled for: for had there been a thousand audacious men, this would be the night they might all be forgiven by the King, so overjoyed was the Sumerian King of Uruk.

The King of Heroes embraced his brother, bringing Enkidu's more lean, hairless chest against his own. There was no safeguard between the two, because none was needed. Gilgamesh's powerful arms wrapped without hesitation around the more smallish Enkidu, and Gilgamesh spoke as his chin rested upon the shoulder of his brother.

"Rejoice, ye King of the Beasts! For tonight we brothers have been called together once more. Never, when I was called forth, did I imagine I might confront my only equal...I have been summoned twice before, and aside from the odd one or two great Heroic Spirits, none were as worthy as you to stand in my presence. A King of Conquerors and a King of Knights...those two were my only entertainment and solace in your absence. And to see you here fills my heart with joy. Your simple-mindedness is forgiven, my brother. I cannot stay furious with you when it has been so long since we have met."

After the meaningful embrace of brothers, closer than any lovers could ever hope to be, Gilgamesh pulled away from the hug but kept a hand on each of Enkidu's shoulders and looked him in the eyes. The brilliant, red eyes of the King of Heroes were as radiant as the dawn, and all pretense of pride had briefly slipped away. For this one moment, the two were united again in presence, body, and mind. Gilgamesh spoke now, unsure about one thing, though within his own brilliant mind he had figured out the answer anyway.

"Into what class did that idiotic mage call you forth into this world? I felt the presence of a mad dog...has he restored to you the feral nature of your origin? If so, speak the word and I shall take vengeance for you and find a new Master, one a little more worthy of the Greatest of Men." Gilgamesh offered, essentially saying he would personally kill Gareth if that was the desire of his long-lost brother.

Gilgamesh was overjoyed to look into the eyes of his brother once more, to feel his presence again...truly, in such proximity to the only one who understood Gilgamesh, that pathetic roar meant nothing to the King right now.

[Enkidu]

//Day 1; 04:19 A.M. - Fuyuki Central Park; Shinto, Fuyuki//

Enkidu smiled as he felt Gilgamesh's arms wrap around his body, their chest pressed against each other. Their hearts beat almost in sync, Enkidu rested his head on his brother's shoulder and took in his smell. It had been years since they last met yet Gilgamesh still smelled of Uruk. Enkidu felt a wave of relief roll over him as he relaxed in the arms of his brother. He felt tears well up in his eyes at the fact Gilgamesh was alone for so many years after Enkidu's death.

"Rejoice, ye King of the Beasts! For tonight we brothers have been called together once more. Never, when I was called forth, did I imagine I might confront my only equal...I have been summoned twice before, and aside from the odd one or two great Heroic Spirits, none were as worthy as you to stand in my presence. A King of Conquerors and a King of Knights...those two were my only entertainment and solace in your absence. And to see you here fills my heart with joy. Your simple-mindedness is forgiven, my brother. I cannot stay furious with you when it has been so long since we have met."

Enkidu felt his heart drop at the words of Gilgamesh, he was so lonesome, he had nothing to entertain him. Enkidu bit his bottom lip feeling horrible for this, he blamed himself for Gilgamesh being alone for so long. He felt himself being pulled back or rather pushed away as their embrace broke, Enkidu's tears were gone now. He looked into Gilgamesh's eyes, he felt their warmth roll over his body. Gilgamesh wasn't his lover or his brother, he was a part of Enkidu that was missing for years.

"Into what class did that idiotic mage call you forth into this world? I felt the presence of a mad dog...has he restored to you the feral nature of your origin? If so, speak the word and I shall take vengeance for you and find a new Master, one a little more worthy of the Greatest of Men." Enkidu immediately recognized the tone Gilgamesh used, he used this tone once when he was offering kill those who insulted Enkidu on the streets.

"No no. It's fine! I have this ability that let me calm down from that rage. Besides he seems very nice. His prana feels nice when it flows into me. I can tell he has a good nature about him." Enkidu said smiling towards Gilgamesh, he did like his master as Enkidu was positive he was a nice person.

"Gilgamesh! You should meet him! Let us call him over and you can see he is a good person! Please?" Enkidu asked nicely, he looked up at Gilgamesh with pleading eyes as he continued. "He seems really nice so please, just think of me when you meet him. Excuse him of any rudeness he does and tell him how to improve upon it. He is like a child compared to us. He knows not of our ways nor the old ways of the earth." Enkidu said to Gilgamesh while waving for his master to come near, hopefully Gilgamesh wouldn't be too displeased with him.

[Gilgamesh]

Day 1; 04:21 A.M. - Fuyuki Central Park; Shinto, Fuyuki

Where Enkidu felt a bit of sadness upon their reunion for a number of reasons, the King of Heroes had no reason to be sad or remorseful whatsoever. He was reunited with his brother, the only man who Gilgamesh would ever see as an equal. The man who had been made specifically to entertain Gilgamesh during his more youthful, oppressive reign. It had been Enkidu who had changed Gilgamesh and motivated the latter to believe there was worth in people and the world...and upon meeting Enkidu and wrestling him to that fateful draw, their friendship had been sealed. Truly, it had only been because of Enkidu that Gilgamesh had ever wanted to go on adventures...it was because of the beast-man who stood before him now, that Gilgamesh had sought and found what it meant to be immortal.

Gilgamesh's only concern was whether or not the magus who had summoned him was stupid enough to call forth the bestial spearman into the class of a Berserker. Gilgamesh had once fought a black Berserker in armor, and in the end had all but defeated him. Still, despite the black knight's ability - one practically designed to counter Gilgamesh - the Golden Knight had prevailed and dealt a decisive blow to end the skirmish between the Fourth War's Archer and Berserker. So, the thought of seeing his brother in that blind rage angered Gilgamesh, and as if to stay Gilgamesh's hand, Enkidu spoke with haste regarding one of his own abilities.

"No no. It's fine! I have this ability that let me calm down from that rage. Besides he seems very nice. His prana feels nice when it flows into me. I can tell he has a good nature about him."

Gilgamesh frowned slightly, but he was no longer visibly irrate. If Enkidu, the only man Gilgamesh could see as an equal endorsed someone, then they were worth their own existence in the eyes of the true king. Gilgamesh was more often than not willing to trust the judgement of his brother, even if both Enkidu and Gilgamesh recognized the latter's judgment over the former's own. Still, Gilgamesh did not argue...he could believe that Enkidu's own abilities had allowed him to calm the rage of the Berserker class. As Gilgamesh fondly recalled, Enkidu had been a feral man more like an animal when he had first appeared near Uruk. And it had been a woman's wiles that had tamed the man and allowed Enkidu to become civilized.

"Gilgamesh" Enkidu suddenly proclaimed, as if to plead for the attention of his dear friend. "You should meet him! Let us call him over and you can see he is a good person! Please?" Enkidu insisted, trying to convince Gilgamesh to meet his Master. This request would normally bother the King, since few people - let alone any human magus - could be considered worth his time and attention, but because the request was put forth by Enkidu of all people, Gilgamesh was willing to grant it.

"He seems really nice so please, just think of me when you meet him. Excuse him of any rudeness he does and tell him how to improve upon it. He is like a child compared to us. He knows not of our ways nor the old ways of the Earth."

"Hm. I will keep in mind your Master's childish perception relative to ourselves. But realize your excuses will only go so far for him, should he see fit to spit in the face of the King's generosity. I will give audience to your Master, and restrain my hand this meeting for any rudeness he might display. However," Gilgamesh said, speaking up so the approaching Master could hear him. "Your Master would do well to know it is only because of the wonderful Servant he has chosen that I have not already slain him and his Servant." Gilgamesh said, no threat intended to the beast-man...but certainly the magus must have been meant to take warning from the King's words.

[Gareth Gwynfor]

//Day 1; 04:24 A.M. - Fuyuki Central Park; Shinto, Fuyuki//

Nearly ten meters away Gareth crouched down in the grass with an attentive eye on the two servants whose paths had intersected in the far future. What were the chances that his summoning would attract the attention of another being? Then figure out what the chances of that being being servant. Then figure the chances of that servant having some kind of history with Enkidu. Finally throw all those aside to have the pleasure of that servant being Gilgamesh, King of Heroes. Certainly the odds were not in Gareth's favor to have such a guest meet up with him. He grimaced at the idea of having any further contact with Gilgamesh at the moment. It wasn't that Gareth didn't like the man, quite opposite he could find himself looking up to Gilgamesh. From the stories of old he had heard of the previous wars those who made themselves even a remote nuisance were slaughtered mercilessly. Gareth's one fear was doing something to irritate the King above Kings.

Even though he called Gilgamesh a man, Gareth had a hard time seeing him as anything other than a God. The idea of him even being considered a Servant seemed ludicrous as this being would certainly reverse the roles upon his Master. Sometimes he imagined Gilgamesh as a being who had not an ounce of humanity within him. This opinion changed rapidly as the magus continued to observe the reactions between the fated brothers. He saw them embrace one another and heart felt smiles upon their faces. One who had lost their humanity would not be able to feel such longing after meeting with their closest sibling. Gareth couldn't keep himself from smiling at the display. From his distance he couldn't make out what they were saying, but he could feel the general atmosphere around them.

However, what was once a gentle peaceful atmosphere rapidly shifted toward tempests and storms. He felt a surge of killing intent. It wasn't one of a murderer or a savage, but a much more dignified feeling. Gareth felt a chill run down his spine as if he were the target of such a threat. He wondered what would occur if he were to die tonight. No one would know that it was Gilgamesh who killed him. No one would know what had happened to Gareth Gwynfor. The Mages Association would probably not even bat an eye at the lose of an Enforcer in this war. It would be a death no one would look into, but not an unexpected one.

Where one would be frozen with fear Gareth was filled with energy. He was ready to spring into action and flee if necessary. It would be thrilling to fight with such a legend as Gilgamesh if he would not perish in moments. Even if he were to become prey Gareth was prepared to make even the King of Heroes work to make his death a reality. Given the speed at which those weapons had first appeared the prospect of dodging seemed impossible. Still if the options were die or dodge, Gareth would choose to dodge even if he couldn't. He wasn't beyond running away from an un-winnable fight against a being far beyond himself.

The adrenaline only increased as something occurred that he did not even wish to think about. Enkidu was waving Gareth over to join them once more. The weight of being in the presence of Gilgamesh was only dropped when he could remove himself from the encounter. He tried to think of ways he could get out of it. Perhaps he could politely decline the offer.

The red eyes of Gilgamesh glanced upon Gareth. He knew at that moment that declining was not an option. The moment he tried to get out of it would be the moment that he died. The blond magus let out a soft sigh. How many times would he stare death in the face? Was this just the beginning of a long series of near fatal events? He knew not.

Gareth lifted himself to his feet and closed the distance between them. The golden mane of the King and the green locks of the Beast. It was very easy to identify both of them. They continued conversation as he approached and their words became more identifiable. He barely heard what Enkidu had said, but he had an idea it was something along the lines of assuring Gilgamesh of something. Probably about him. Everyone was aware that Gareth's presence just made things more problematic. The human would have preferred to just be left out, and he could guess Gilgamesh felt something similar. It was only the grace of Enkidu that wished for everyone to get along in some way. Gareth didn't want to waste Enkidu's gift upon him.

"Hm. I will keep in mind your Master's childish perception relative to ourselves. But realize your excuses will only go so far for him, should he see fit to spit in the face of the King's generosity. I will give audience to your Master, and restrain my hand this meeting for any rudeness he might display. However," The last word seemed directed toward Gareth. His voice had risen in volume only to ensure that his voice would be heard. "Your Master would do well to know it is only because of the wonderful Servant he has chosen that I have not already slain him and his Servant."

Gareth's brow furrowed at the comment. He never worked well with authority. Especially those who were arrogant and full of themselves. Still there was no helping it when one dealt with an entity such as this. His face softened pushing the comment aside as he came within a few meters of the two Heroic Spirits. His only option was to look on the brighter side of Gilgamesh's words and act accordingly else his tongue may be the death of him.

"Fortune's blessing is all I have to thank in my interest toward summoning Enkidu," Gareth said aloud agreeing with the King of Heroes, "If met with any other Heroic Spirit I'm certain Enkidu's might would be more than enough to handle them."

His words held no tone of over-confidence or sarcasm as it normally would have. It was humble and certain. He was choosing his dialogue carefully in attempt to prevent the opinion of him in the eyes of the King of Heroes from dropping any further than it may have already. He had planted himself a few feet from Enkidu. He did not dare approach any closer and invade either of their spaces. His body was stiff as if to prevent himself from falling, but a certain tension was there as well. A primal fear was being held in check along with any emotions that might spur. The man's blue eyes didn't waver. They moved between the two great beings without dropping or avoiding eye contact.

There were many questions that popped into Gareth's mind as a short silence fell upon the group. He wondered what might occur now that they both were aware of each others presence in the war. What business might occur between them and if any alliances were possible. Or if a great battle were possible at this point. He wanted to ask of their past and learn more about the time they had lived in. Perhaps even ask about what other classes Enkidu could have been summoned in. He stayed his tongue choosing to remain silent. He knew not what his presence in the conversation might cause and what reactions might be happen if he were to speak freely. At the moment he chose to take the route of "speaking when spoken to" as he had nothing to break the tension he felt.

[Enkidu]

Day 1; 04:25 A.M. - Fuyuki Central Park; Shinto, Fuyuki

"Your Master would do well to know it is only because of the wonderful Servant he has chosen that I have not already slain him and his Servant."

"Fortune's blessing is all I have to thank in my interest toward summoning Enkidu," Gareth said aloud agreeing with the King of Heroes, "If met with any other Heroic Spirit I'm certain Enkidu's might would be more than enough to handle them." Enkidu could feel the tension in the air, despite the flattering comment made by his master he knew Gilgamesh didn't like him. But like most things it would simply require work, just as slaying the divine bull. Enkidu smiled at this memory looking back and forth between Gareth and Gilgamesh. The two were strong men of their time however one was a king, no matter your strength you always serve the king. Enkidu could feel the silence creep on them, both were reluctant to speak to one another.

"Master! I mean Partner! Do you have any questions about the holy grail war? I'm sure since Gilgamesh is a veterinarian of two of them he could answer your questions. Even if they aren't questions about the war and of us I'm sure Gilgamesh will have no trouble in answering them." Enkidu tried to come up with a solution to this silence, not realizing his mistake with his words. Enkidu noticed the distance between the two and was aware of why it was awkward. It was a god staring down a mortal, they needed someone to bridge the connection. Enkidu took it upon himself to walk over to Gareth and motion him to take a step closer. "I won't bite you if you come a little closer, It is awkward if we have to yell at each other. Just don't touch Gilgamesh, he doesn't like being touched by almost anyone." Enkidu warned as he stood between the two, there was three feet from Enkidu to Gilgamesh and two from Gareth to Enkidu.

Hopefully if they got closer the tension would go away, then again it could also increase it. But Enkidu hoped for the best, Gareth and Gilgamesh were the two men he had sworn loyalty to. He had to do his best to ensure that they were both happy.

[Veronica Barthomeloi]

Day 1; 04:27 A.M. - Fuyuki Central Park; Shinto, Fuyuki

The silence that fell between the three was palpable. The presence of two Servants, both equal in their own right, was enough to deafen any magus. The reunion of Gilgamesh and Enkidu was something Masters had been waiting for, with fear and relief. Relief for the Masters who summoned the two, fear for anyone who did not. Gareth had been very sharp to grasp Enkidu so quickly. With Gilgamesh around, people would have been scrambling to summon the beast. While this reunion was very touching, it was missing one key person. While Enkidu had a Master to boast, Gilgamesh had no one to stand by his side. Not that he would mind that, but it was a notable absence. Enkidu was not aware of Gilgamesh's previous masters and their habits of staying in the shadows.

Veronica Barthomeloi walks through the clear opening, feeling estranged with so much empty space. As the line of trees breaks into tall grass, the young Master dares to not travel any further. She is within eyesight. The young Master leans against one of the few trees, the brief light from the moon enough to sculpt her outline, highlighting her features. There was no need to hide. It didn't take long for Veronica to know what was happening. In all honesty, she knew it would come around eventually. Enkidu was a factor she had contemplated, and had even expected to Master over. Thus far, it seems like they had done their reunion. While she was a bit sad she didn't see any glimmer of humanity from her Servant, she does not voice it. Her command seal continues to throb, indicating the presence of Enkidu's Master. The man, she observes, seems reserved. Smart man.

As the silence continues, her impatient behavior starts to kick in. She had no intention of being rude towards the newly bounded pair, Gilgamesh was another story. The young Barthomeloi had yet to figure how far she could push Gilgamesh. While she would be an idiot to push him too far, a couple pushes and prods would only help her strengthen the bound. Or at least, she hoped so. Giving a sigh, she moves away from the tree, both hands secured to her sides. The Barthomeloi walks with her head held high, confident but not overly so, as always. “I see I've missed out on quite a bit.” Her voice is not directed towards anyone in general.

She stops, only a foot or so away from her Servant. Sending a smile towards who she guessed to be Enkidu's master, the Barthomeloi does as he does. Veronica wouldn't dare barge into the meeting of these two. Rather, she'll wait for Gilgamesh to introduce his Master, just as Enkidu had. Her hand rests calmly on the handle of her saber. Less out of defense, and more out of comfort then anything. She knew that this wouldn't be a hostile encounter. There was no need for it to be, unless Enkidu's master wished so. Silently, veronica highly doubted that. In fact, he seemed almost familiar. Briefly, she glances at him out of the corner of her eye, catching his profile.

She HAD seen that face somewhere. But where? Her mind reels back, recalling a log her father kept. He had been in charge of a squad of Enforcers, just as any Barthomeloi head is. He had a book to keep track of them all, and she swears that she caught a glimpse of someone who looked just like Gareth. She had seen the book around...three weeks ago? Something along those lines. So, it would obviously be updated. Keeping this observation to herself, she silently muses what would happen if he was an Enforcer. That would be interesting. In fact, it was even more interesting that she had summoned Gilgamesh using a catalyst for Enkidu.

[Gilgamesh]

Day 1; 04:27 A.M. - Fuyuki Central Park; Shinto, Fuyuki

When Enkidu had spoken of his Master and encouraged Gilgamesh to meet the magus who had summoned the beast-man into this world, the King of Heroes had settled his gaze upon the nearby magus. In the dimly lit darkness of Fuyuki Central Park, Gareth would be able to see the piercing red eyes of Gilgamesh, silently measuring the magus' worth as the Golden Knight looked his quarry over. The spiritual and nigh physical pressure felt by Gareth was completely normal for a human to experience when in the presence of a Servant...especially when the servant in question was such a frighteningly powerful one such as Gilgamesh. Even so, on behalf on Enkidu, Gilgamesh had every intention of restraining his own irritation at the presence of a mere mortal.

Had Gareth tried to decline the offer to have an audience with Gilgamesh, the Sumerian King would have impaled him fifty times over in the blink of an eye, leaving his old comrade no option but to watch in likely awe and horror. However, luckily for both magus and Berserker, Gareth's foolishness apparently knew some limits. The blond-haired magus rose from his nearby position and began to approach the long-parted brothers. Gilgamesh had seen fit to toss a backhanded compliment towards Gareth, perhaps testing his mettle or trying to provoke him so he would have an excuse to lay the magus down low. As Gareth's brow furrowed, Gilgamesh folded his arms across his bare chest, his expression practically daring Gareth to speak his innermost thoughts.

However, the human showed a modicum of discipline and restraint, enough that only the briefly-lived sour expression displayed Gareth's discontent regarding the situation. When the irritated expression fled from Gareth's face, Gilgamesh too seemed to dull his invisible blade of murderous intent. This metaphorical blade had not been sheathed, but certainly was less intense than before. Because of Gareth's choice to stifle any rebellious or insulting thoughts, he had risen from apparent enemy to irritating pest in the blink of an eye. As Gareth approached, Gilgamesh's body remained facing Enkidu, though his head did turn to allow the King of Kings to visually assess the Master of this Mad Dog incarnation of Enkidu.

"Fortune's blessing is all I have to thank in my interest toward summoning Enkidu." Gareth said, fortunately taking a moment to think his words through before addressing the King. Gilgamesh, in turn, simply glared with a mixture of disinterest and forced politeness as Gareth drew near. The next statement made by the magus forced a sliver of a smile to surface upon Gilgamesh's flawless visage. "If met with any other Heroic Spirit I'm certain Enkidu's might would be more than enough to handle them."

"For a simple magus, you have an admirable insight. Enkidu is truly a worthy Servant...though, I do not agree with your decision to summon him in this state. You wouldn't know it, but you've robbed him of a great and mighty weapon capable of felling beings on the levels of gods themselves." Gilgamesh paused for a moment, turning his gaze towards Enkidu and speaking as if to make an aside to his friend, even though Gareth could effortlessly hear him. "Though, I'm sure you'll manage just fine without that spear of yours...after all, you are the King's only true equal, my brother." Gilgamesh concluded, full of confidence and pride, before he returned a more gentle gaze to Gareth. Apparently, the King of Heroes was truly happy to be in the presence of his closest friend.

"Master!" Enkidu explained suddenly, as if in an attempt to shatter the awkward silence. The green-haired beastman quickly corrected himself, prompting Gilgamesh to shift his gaze from Gareth to Enkidu. As the target of his visual focus changed, so too did his expression from one of forced focus to genuine attentiveness. Apparently, while Gareth did not merit true attention from the King of Heroes, his comrade from before time certainly did. "Do you have any questions about the holy grail war? I'm sure since Gilgamesh is a veteran of two of them he could answer your questions. Even if they aren't questions about the war and of us I'm sure Gilgamesh will have no trouble in answering them."

With his muscular arms still folded over one another against his broad chest, Gilgamesh's eyes closed and he spoke with a chiding, annoyed tone. Gilgamesh also neglected to correct his long-lost brother on his butchering of the Japanese language.

"You assume too much, brother. I have no interest in giving knowledge freely to another magus unless I feel doing so suits my goals...the reason for this is I too am bound to this world through a contract." Upon speaking these words, the King of Heroes paused briefly, opening one eye and tilting his head slightly, directing his focus to the seemingly empty park air behind him. That was when the voice of his Master called out, and Veronica made her presence known. Gilgamesh wasn't surprised that Gareth hadn't seemed to notice her...after all, it was only natural for a mortal to be in awe of a demigod such as himself. If, even in the presence of his glory, Gareth became too bold, then his thoughtlessness just might seal his demise.

“I see I've missed out on quite a bit.” Veronica stated to no one in particular. Her footfalls were easy enough to hear upon the soft ground for Gilgamesh, a Heroic Spirit and Servant...but he had already known she was in the vicinity. As her Servant, Gilgamesh had no trouble sensing his Master. Even from the park, he would have known if his Master were in trouble...because of how potent Veronica was as a magus, Gilgamesh's bond with her was that much stronger and more efficient. Once his Master took up her position on his left side - apparently aware that the right was the position of honor, reserved for Gilgamesh himself - Gilgamesh decided another introduction was in order.

"Enkidu, and Master of Berserker...I want you to meet my 'Master,' though of course I use that term only as a formality. Perhaps it would be more appropriate to call her my wielder, this time around...Veronica Bathomeloi, an apparently prestigious magus...and the only Master in this war worthy to have summoned a hero such as myself." Gilgamesh added, making sure that his crimson-eyed gaze penetrated the blue hues of Enkidu's Master for that last statement. Gilgamesh's tone was condescending, but not hostile; he simply wanted both Enkidu and Gareth to know that regardless of his fondness for Enkidu, he was still the King, and his Master was that much more worthy if she could summon him. Before anyone could protest to Gilgamesh's words, however, he noticed an inscrutable expression upon Veronica's face.

"...Tch, what troubles you, Veronica? I know he may not look like much," Gilgamesh declared, again resting an appraising gaze upon Gareth."But he did summon quite the Heroic Spirit...the only man on Earth who ever could match me in my glory and presence. My brother...and my dear friend...Enkidu." Gilgamesh formally introduced Enkidu to his Master, apparently unsure as to why she seemed so unhappy about meeting such an esteemed Servant.

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