The Shadow Servant in this burning Fuyuki wasn't just that Archer. Romani says the Holy Grail War typically involves seven Heroic Spirits—Sabers, Lancers, Casters, Riders, Assassins, Berserkers—fighting to the death. That means others could still be targeting us.
"Doctor, how's Mash?"
"She's fine. Blocked all hits, no injuries to Master or Director."
"She fulfilled her shield role well. Impressive for a girl."
Truly remarkable, protecting what matters with just her body. Upholding that resolve is no small feat. Fujimaru has a fine Servant.
"Good."
I must match her efforts with my own results.
"What's up, King?" Romani asks.
"Assign Mash to guard the Master. I'll handle the rest."
"Rest? Isn't being a king your job?"
"Fool. As a Servant, my job is to eliminate threats to the Master."
"What?! You're going alone?!"
"…"
"No, stop that 'obviously' look! We don't know what dangers lurk! If you vanish, our strength plummets!"
He's right. This blazing Singularity is an unknown abyss, full of traps.
"Fool, think I'd fall to mere pebbles? Wait here for threats, or eliminate them to prepare swiftly—which is wiser?"
"Well…"
"Losing humanity's last Master versus losing one Servant. Which is the greater loss in the journey ahead?"
"That's… true, but…"
Romani hesitates. He's not weak—just kind.
"Don't worry. I have Independent Action. I won't burden the Master. Trust a king's word."
"A king's word, huh? Fine, I won't argue and ruin your mood. Can you handle wiping out the remaining Shadow Servants?"
"Of course. Tasting the toil of the masses isn't bad."
No defeat is allowed. I must gain experience to protect the Master.
"Hm. Merit deserves reward."
Before departing, I address Mash, resting nearby.
"Mash."
"Hero King! Sorry, I must look so sloppy…"
"No need for tension without enemies. Serious girl."
"Y-Yes… sorry."
She's too self-effacing. She protected the Master—boast a little, it won't hurt.
"You shielded the Master well. A fine deed. I commend you."
"W-What?! Praised by the Hero King? T-That's too much!"
"Refinement is this island's virtue, yes? Strong-willed women are tiresome—goddesses especially."
The word "goddess" stirred a smoldering killing intent. Gilgamesh's sentiment?
"But your deed is undeniable. A king rewards good work."
A girl her age shouldn't be on a battlefield. She deserves better—simple joys, like good food.
I reach into the golden ripple, pulling out a palm-sized object and offering it to Mash.
"Candy. It's sweet."
"Candy…?"
"Share with the Master and that diligent girl. I'm off to exercise."
"Exercise?! Then Master and I—"
"Fool. You struggled against one Shadow Servant. What can you do?"
"…"
"It's not yet time to risk your life. Your moment will come. Save your will and spirit for then."
"…Yes."
Mash's shoulders slump, crestfallen.
This is fine. She needs time to reflect, to grow. Adolescence demands it, even in chaos. Don't forget normalcy.
"I'm off. Await the king's return."
"Hero King!"
"Hm?"
Mash stops me as I turn to leave.
"T-Thank you… I'll savor this candy…!"
"Overdramatic, fool."
With an unhidden smirk, Gilgamesh leaps away.
"…Truly, thank you, Hero King."
His sharp yet caring words warm Mash's heart.