—The King of Knights' command was really cool, though...
"Indeed. As I said, I only want her because I cannot have her—but regardless, things won't truly begin until she is invited to Chaldea!"
(Achilles was running around earlier because the Apocrypha collab is starting soon, too...)
Beside the Kings' casual banter, Rikka laughed.
"Alright! Time for a summoning break to recharge my Girl Power!"
"You've been working hard, Rikka," Mash noted.
Rikka had her hair in a ponytail and was wearing an apron, fresh from cooking practice. The apron had the words "GIRL POWER" printed on it in bold letters. She struck a pose.
"The power of a girl shall be mine!"
"I don't think it's a Shonen Manga power-up, Rikka..." Roman sighed.
"Well, it's Rikka. We have plenty of time. Let's take it slow," Olga Marie said. "Proceed, Gil. Give my regards to Princess Gilgameshia."
"Hmph. She will be pleased."
Air, floating in the air, blushed a deep red at their kindness and gave a beautiful, formal bow.
"Very well. Spin the circle. First, we settle our debts with Uruk. They are far too valuable to leave behind, having overcome such trials."
『I wonder if I'll be summoned... I'm looking forward to it!』
『Yes. It was because everyone was there that I was able to keep going.』
The two goddesses watched the circle peacefully.
『My King, regarding Ishtar—』
"Now, appear! Who is the one who dares pine for my Master at this hour?!"
『My King?!』
The circle spun. Light exploded.
"I wonder who will be the first person to try my 'Rikka-Power Meal'?"
"Rikka-Power Meal...?"
"It's stamina food, Director!"
As the light faded, a figure appeared.
[The Old Man of the Mountain. I have answered the summons. I have no name. Call me as thou wilt.]
A massive blade stained with faith. A terrifying mask. The incarnation of death who brings peace to all.
—The Grand Assassin! King Hassan...!!
Rikka didn't hesitate. She lunged forward and hugged him.
"Grandpa! Welcome, Grandpa!"
[Contractor. Thy long journey and thy destiny are held in high esteem. Though thy young soul may not yet know the weight of it, rest is both meaningful and essential. I have manifested as the one to watch over thy repose.]
With those words, King Hassan handed Rikka a small gift.
『A Hassan-Mask Eye Mask.』
It was a handmade eye mask to help with sleep.
[It is a meager tribute, but use it well. At times, thou mayest catch a glimpse of the Boundary.]
"Grandpa...!"
[Thy long journey was a trial well-endured. For now, cherish the tranquility and rest, Contractor.]
"Yes! Thank you, Grandpa!"
(He's a total grandpa...)
(A grandpa, huh...)
(He really is a grandpa, isn't he?)
The warmth of the interaction, reminiscent of a strict but loving grandfather, made everyone's hearts melt.
—I'm so happy King Hassan came!
Air hugged Fou and bounced through the air. Truth be told, Air had modeled her own "Grand-tier" sacrifice after King Hassan's example. She realized that if one offered up their Grand title, even a single strike could become a means to fell a Beast.
Because she had done that, everyone was saved. To her, he was like a mentor.
—Thank you, King Hassan. Because you were there, I didn't have to lose Roman or anyone else—
[—...]
Only the King noticed the Old Man narrowing his eyes, looking at Air—the soul of the shortest-lived Grand—with a look of profound recognition and care.
"Do you require a guide, Assassin?" Gil asked.
[It matters not. I must grasp the layout with mine own feet.]
"A healthy Grandpa," Rikka noted.
[Contractor. Shouldst thou have need of a head, thou needst only call.]
"A head-hunting Grandpa."
With that, he vanished into blue flames. Rikka watched him go, feeling all warm and fuzzy.
"Look, Mash. I still have goosebumps. I thought I was going to die," Olga Marie shivered.
"The Director is such a scaredy-cat!"
"Anyone would be scared! Right...?"
[OFF WITH THY HEAD!]
"HYAAAAAA?!"
[—...]
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