One-Punch Man World.
"Now, most things seem to have been explained clearly." Genos watched the video with an exceptionally serious expression—a sign that he was immersed in the plot. He analyzed: "The most critical thing right now is the matter of the Seventh Singularity."
Singularities 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 have all been explored, and a lot of information has been obtained.
"It's just..." Genos looked at Fujimaru Ritsuka and the others in the video, his expression quite serious: "I have a very ominous premonition."
"Hmm? What ominous premonition?" Saitama, who was eating hot pot, showed a slightly confused expression. He felt the plot was going quite well.
Why would Genos say that? Isn't this a normal hero vs. demon king plot?
Gathering information bit by bit, increasing strength bit by bit, with the protagonist successfully defeating the final enemy in the end?
"Ah, I have a similar premonition too." Tatsumaki nodded slightly. She looked at the confused-looking Saitama beside her and said indifferently: "Haven't you noticed?"
"What?" Saitama looked at Tatsumaki with some curiosity, like a curious student, not quite understanding what the other was talking about.
"That feeling that a crisis is coming." Tatsumaki shrugged, looking at Saitama with an expression that was quite helpless yet happy: "Haven't you noticed? Hasn't Fujimaru Ritsuka been too smooth sailing all along?"
"And the smoother they go now, the more I feel that something big is going to happen later."
Listening to Tatsumaki's words, Genos also nodded slightly, his expression quite serious: "I think so too. After all, there have been too many examples before: Mami Tomoe, Kars, Uchiha Itachi, Light Yagami, Uchiha Madara, Riku and Shuvi."
Genos did not mention the Blank Siblings here, as they were very smooth from beginning to end, and Jibril was played around with until she was in a sorry state in their hands.
Kars and Uchiha Madara had been sailing smoothly, only to end up failing at the last moment.
Regarding everything happening before his eyes, Genos instinctively felt a bad premonition.
"Yeah," Tatsumaki said quite seriously as she watched Mash and Fujimaru Ritsuka in the video. "And right now, I'm thinking... among the three of them, who will actually die?"
Here, Tatsumaki was referring to Dr. Roman, Fujimaru Ritsuka, and Mash.
After all, it was already a certainty that a sacrifice would appear among them.
But who would die first?! Tatsumaki was quite curious about this. Would it be Mash, who always maintained a heart dedicated to protecting others?
Or would it be Dr. Roman, who hid many secrets? Or perhaps Fujimaru Ritsuka, who possessed a will of steel?
"This..."
Saitama hadn't felt much at first, but hearing Genos and Tatsumaki say that, he suddenly felt the hot pot in front of him wasn't so tasty anymore.
From a personal perspective, Saitama was actually an optimist; he looked forward to a so-called grand happy ending.
That is, a so-called perfect ending where the enemy boss is completely finished, while one's own side remains intact and unharmed.
But now, listening to Tatsumaki and Genos, it felt like even if the Chaldea side defeated Solomon, the King of Mages, they would still face a total annihilation ending?
Surely... it won't turn out like that, right?
Saitama fell into a brief contemplation at this moment. He still held a good deal of affection for Fujimaru Ritsuka, Mash, and Dr. Roman.
Especially Fujimaru Ritsuka and Mash.
Saitama had watched them grow all the way, feeling like he was watching his own children; they went from being immature to becoming mature and steady.
This was a different experience from watching Riku and Shuvi, so Saitama still hoped both of them would survive intact. As for Dr. Roman... well! As long as he survived, it would be fine.
Even if he ended up missing an arm or a leg, it wouldn't matter.
Type-Moon/Fate World, Sixth Singularity, Sacred Round Table Domain.
"Is this... everyone's ending?"
After watching all the content of Sixth Singularity, Fujimaru Ritsuka took a deep breath. She felt quite happy because everyone got what they wanted.
Lancelot was successfully turned because of Mash's word 'Father,' and without a second thought, he betrayed the Artoria Pendragon.
Assassin of the Arm was not beheaded by King Hassan; he fulfilled his mission and continued to be active in this era.
Bedivere returned the Holy Sword and successfully atoned for his sins.
Agravain received the Artoria Pendragon's praise, and that final scene between lord and retainer was quite heartwarming.
They themselves had also obtained the Holy Grail and learned some intelligence regarding the Human Order Incineration. It was truly worth celebrating.
"No, that's the ending for the 'you' in the video," Da Vinci said, looking at Fujimaru Ritsuka with a subtle gaze. "The situation now isn't necessarily the same. After all, we know the future, and that is a variable."
"This time, we might not have it as easy as they did in the video."
Yes, in the video, they were able to successfully overthrow the Artoria Pendragon, but in reality, it might not be the case. Since they knew, the Knights of the Round Table over there might also know about Bedivere.
"Yeah, Senpai!!! We've suddenly fallen into a disadvantageous position!!"
Mash also showed a rather nervous expression. After all, in the video, they had caught the Holy City completely off guard.
First, Lord Lancelot betrayed the Artoria Pendragon, and then Ramses II agreed to join them in overthrowing the Artoria Pendragon.
Furthermore, Bedivere was hidden so deep that he only revealed his trump card at the last moment, giving the Artoria Pendragon a 'fatal blow.'
Now that these advantages were gone, it was definitely not a good thing!
"Don't worry, Mash," Fujimaru Ritsuka said very calmly and seriously. "Being anxious won't help. Right now, we can only pray that they haven't seen the multiverse projection videos."
"After all, the Knights of the Round Table are all very busy right now. It's impossible for them to have time to watch the multiverse projection videos like we do."
"The Artoria Pendragon is the same. Do you think she would care about some video? She's a Goddess now, an existence that doesn't even know how to smile."
Indeed, according to Fujimaru Ritsuka's thoughts, the Knights of the Round Table were busy to death at the moment, so how could they watch the projection videos? The Artoria Pendragon was the same; she currently lacked 'human reason' and wouldn't think of watching videos for amusement.
If the opponent really found out, it wouldn't matter, because Fujimaru Ritsuka felt that if such an unexpected situation occurred, King Hassan shouldn't just stand by and watch.
This Grand Assassin, who had only appeared twice, was their greatest trump card, bar none!
"Yes, you're right, Senpai."
Mash quietly breathed a sigh of relief. Although her voice was still filled with worry, she felt a bit more at ease because of Fujimaru Ritsuka's words.
Generally speaking, that was indeed the case, but she was still somewhat concerned.
"Well, well~~~" At this time, Da Vinci smiled slightly and looked at Mash and Fujimaru Ritsuka. "Rather than that, I'm more interested in what surprises Seventh Singularity will bring us."
"The previous inventory video for Seventh Singularity only showed the ending, where they were fighting to oppose the Goddess Tiamat. Although we've already obtained the most important information..."
"Since that video creator hasn't skipped this part yet, it means there are still secrets regarding the Human Order Incineration hidden within this Singularity."
An interested look appeared in Da Vinci's eyes. She looked at Mash and Fujimaru Ritsuka on the screen, who were starting to rest, and smiled. "I'm very interested to see what information will be revealed next."
"~~~~"
Fujimaru Ritsuka and Mash looked at each other with helpless expressions. However, they also knew that compared to the upcoming battle against the Artoria Pendragon in Sixth Singularity, watching the video was more important right now.
Because after the seventh Singularity ended, it would be the direct confrontation with the Solomon, the King of Mages.
The video continued to play.
After returning to Chaldea, Fujimaru Ritsuka and Mash went to rest. During their rest, Dr. Roman, Da Vinci, and the others also had to work hard for Seventh Singularity.
Just then, Mash slowly opened her eyes; she had woken up.
Click
At that moment, the door opened, and Dr. Roman walked in. With a gentle smile on his face, he looked at Mash and said, "Yo, good morning, Mash."
Dr. Roman came to Mash's side and looked at her tenderly. "I wanted to chat a bit about some personal topics today."
[At dawn, the Doctor appeared with his usual expression.]
Mash's inner voice sounded. As she looked at Dr. Roman in the video, she continued: 'The tone of voice, the pulse, the mannerisms—everything is the same as usual. It's still that gentle Dr. Roman.'
Dr. Roman looked at Mash and said somewhat seriously, "Although this is an extremely serious topic, as your attending physician, I must harden my heart and tell you the facts."
Hearing Dr. Roman's words, a hint of confusion appeared on Mash's face, but she still nodded slightly, indicating she understood.
"Mash Kyrielight," Dr. Roman called out Mash's full name, looking at her quite seriously. "Your life functions are about to reach their limit."
"Just as humanity has no future from now on, you also have no future."
Although Dr. Roman's voice was gentle, the words he spoke felt quite cruel.
People outside the video could understand because Mash wasn't a true 'human'; she was a flawed existence. Even if the Human Order Incineration ended, her life could not be extended.
Dr. Roman looked at Mash with a serious expression. "This was destined from the very beginning. Neither I, nor you, nor anyone else can change it."
"Even the Holy Grail, hailed as an omnipotent wish-granting machine, probably cannot change this destiny."
"However~" Dr. Roman's expression looked slightly toward another corner as he explained, "The Holy Grail is merely a projection from a slightly higher-dimensional phase, just a relatively superior crystal of magical resources."
"The reason it's called an omnipotent wish-granting machine is actually a bit like the saying 'as long as you have money, you can do whatever you want.'"
"In reality, the Holy Grail cannot accomplish things that humans cannot do. This point must not be mistaken."
Mash nodded slightly. Although she didn't speak, her inner thoughts expressed her feelings.
[I silently expressed my agreement. The Holy Grail is merely an existence that shortens 'time'—building structures, building cities, building eras.]
[The thing that can utilize massive magical resources to complete ahead of time what humans are capable of creating is the Holy Grail.]
[Why is the Doctor going out of his way to explain something that is already well known?]
At this moment, a slight doubt flashed through Mash's heart.
Dr. Roman didn't look away; he looked directly at Mash and said very seriously, "You will die soon, regardless of your will."
"Simply because 'you were made this way.'"
"Are you unwilling? Or will you be sad? Don't you feel empty?"
The words spoken by Dr. Roman made the people outside the video feel a sense of strangeness.
They felt something was wrong, but they couldn't quite put their finger on it, because everything happening before them revealed a hint of eeriness and incongruity.
Not just them, even Mash in the video showed a hint of surprise.
Dr. Roman looked at Mash and continued to criticize seriously, "This is too disgraceful. No, I'm not referring to Chaldea's research, but as an evaluation of all humans and all life!"
"Life is destined for death from the very beginning, yet in that destined state, it possesses the function of growth."
"Since one is going to die anyway, then it's better not to grow! Whether it's the body or the spirit! It's enough to maintain the same state from beginning to end!"
"That way, there would be no sadness or pain. All things would be equal, and all things would have meaning from the start."
As he spoke, Dr. Roman sighed and slightly closed his eyes, lamenting, "However, all life on this planet is in vain, as if growing only for the sake of death."
"There's no meaning at all, truly meaningless. The more time accumulates, the more it only increases attachments and such. This planet's setting for the environment of life is fundamentally wrong."
After saying that, Dr. Roman slowly opened his eyes, which reflected Mash's shadow. His voice, as if filled with some kind of magic, said, "Don't you think so? Mash?"
"You are half a human-created life, a more incompetent life created by incompetent humans mimicking the actions of gods."
"You have the right to hate, and even more, the obligation to negate. Human history is worthless!"
"It is merely the wreckage left behind by humans who continue this meaningless life."
"And this wreckage happens to look like a painting with some kind of meaning."
Dr. Roman's words were still gentle, but the meaning expressed in his speech was hair-raising. He wanted Mash to negate humanity and hate humans, because it was humans who created her 'imperfect' self.
Mash also sensed the abnormality. Looking at Dr. Roman in front of her, she thought: 'The strange thing is, his words are so gentle.'
'To me, his words are entirely unacceptable content; I cannot agree with a single bit of it.'
'However, that voice is so gentle. Within his words, there is wisdom and benevolence.'
'If it feels painful, then don't continue, he whispers in my ear, with a sweet voice like a dark abyss.'
'But!'
Mash looked up, staring at the existence in front of her that looked exactly like 'Dr. Roman,' and said with certainty, "You aren't Dr. Roman, are you?"
"..."
'Dr. Roman's' expression changed slightly, obviously not expecting Mash to say those words.
Looking at this 'Dr. Roman' before her, Mash's tone was calm yet firm. "Although Dr. Roman is very pessimistic, non-human, and a person who gets hurt by his own words and immediately loses heart..."
"He is not the kind of person who would negate human actions and negate all kinds of efforts. You are just someone very similar to him, yet the complete opposite."
Mash saw through the person before her; he wasn't the real 'Dr. Roman.' He was merely an existence wearing Dr. Roman's skin.
——Ha!
At this moment, 'Dr. Roman's' eyes turned blood-red, and strange patterns appeared on his face. He grinned, revealing a very 'eerie' smile.
"Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha——!!!!"
Accompanied by 'Dr. Roman's' laughter, the screen gradually became dazzling, with black and white interlacing.
Finally, Mash slowly opened her eyes and saw the familiar ceiling. She subconsciously looked toward the bedside cabinet and said in a complex tone, "6:00 AM, it's my wake-up time, but..."
Mash thought to herself: 'I had an uncertain dream, like a dream where if I made a single mistake, I would never wake up again, being dragged into the depths of the dream.'
'Before, Senpai also encountered a similar situation, but why would I, at this point...'
At this moment, Mash fell into a brief state of confusion. Then, a call came from the Control Room, which immediately made her alert, and she ran toward the Control Room.
Outside the video.
Type-Moon/Fate World, Chaldea.
"Ah! This guy!!!!!"
Watching this scene, Dr. Roman grabbed his hair, his expression looking exceptionally 'distorted.'
Yes, a distorted expression. Dr. Roman currently had no words to describe his current feelings.
"..."
The people in the Control Room weren't looking at Dr. Roman anymore; the number of times he had made a fuss today was simply too many.
Rather than looking at him, it was better to think about what would be good to eat today.
At this moment, Dr. Roman's fists tightened. It was one thing for that 'identity' of his to be impersonated; after all, that 'identity' was one he had abandoned himself.
Although it was only temporarily abandoned, it was an indisputable fact.
Things are different now!! In his capacity as Romani Archaman, he would not allow anyone else to impersonate him.
Plus, Fujimaru Ritsuka and Mash had already begun to suspect 'his' identity. For that guy to do this—wasn't he basically telling everyone that he was Solomon?!
At the thought of this, Dr. Roman's fists clenched tight.
But soon, Dr. Roman sighed, feeling somewhat helpless. For now, he still didn't want to reveal his final trump card and perish together with the enemy.
After all, at this moment, he hadn't yet enjoyed the happiness of being an ordinary person.
If Fujimaru Ritsuka and Mash could eliminate the Human Order Incineration, then as an ordinary person, he would be able to properly enjoy so-called 'happiness'.
"However..." Dr. Roman looked at Mash in the video, his eyes flickering slightly. 'That guy' really does care about Mash.
But then again... Dr. Roman could understand why he cared so much about Mash.
In a sense, he and Mash were the same kind of existence; it would be impossible not to care.
It was just that the other party had disguised himself as Roman, which gave Dr. Roman a serious stomach ache. Of all the people to impersonate—Fujimaru Ritsuka, Da Vinci—why did it have to be him?!
Could it be? Had he already been recognized?! No way, right?!!
Thinking of this, Dr. Roman skillfully logged onto Magical Merli's website.
Dr. Roman: "Um, Magical Merli... if someone took over your old identity and even disguised themselves as your current identity, and their old identity might be exposed, what should you do?"
Magical Merli: "That's too convoluted! I don't get it!! But... simply put, do you think your hidden identity has been discovered?"
Dr. Roman: "Mm-hmm-hmm-hmm!!! Although I think it's unlikely, since I've hidden it very well! Basically, no one can guess it."
Dr. Roman was very confident. Even if most of his secrets were exposed, he remained certain that no third person knew he was King Solomon!
As for who the second person was? That would definitely be the first Director, Marisbury, who was forced to commit suicide.
Magical Merli: "If that's the case, then don't panic~ since no one knows, right? If you mean the other person is impersonating your current identity, then just give him a beating! Beat his real identity out of him!"
Dr. Roman: "Um... the current me doesn't seem to be able to win a fight."
Magical Merli: "Then loudly announce that the other party is a fake and reveal his true identity."
Dr. Roman: "This..."
Magical Merli: "Then there's nothing I can do. You can't win a fight and you won't reveal his identity. You might as well just pass away gracefully~"
Dr. Roman: "How can you say that?!!!!!!"
After saying this, Dr. Roman showed a joyful smile. As expected, communicating with Magical Merli was delightful. Although she was slightly sharp-tongued, it always felt very happy~
He wondered what kind of cute girl she actually was~~~ Once he turned back into Solomon, he would go see her.
Or perhaps in the future, after battling 'that guy', he would become Solomon again and use Clairvoyance to take a look at Magical Merli.
Thinking of this, Dr. Roman's mood suddenly became quite pleasant, and he even forgot about his identity being impersonated.
Seventh Singularity, the world of Absolute Demonic Front: Babylonia.
"Hahahahaha~~~"
At this moment, Merlin let out a very 'cheerful' laugh.
Siduri maintained her smile. No matter what happened next or what kind of words she heard, her expression basically wouldn't change.
Because whenever Merlin laughed like that, she felt the King was about to say something as well.
Sure enough, just as Siduri expected.
"Ho?"
Wise King Gilgamesh showed a very interested smile as he looked at Merlin and said, "I believe Romani Archaman's expression must be quite spectacular right now."
"It is indeed spectacular. He seems to have panicked a bit. After all, not only did that guy assume his identity, he even stole his appearance to deceive Mash."
Merlin'sighed', a very'sad' smile appearing on his face as he said, "I bet right now he's itching to give the guy a beating, though he certainly does have that intention."
"But it seems he doesn't have the'strength' for it at all, unless..."
As he spoke, Merlin wore a mysterious expression, then fell silent, not continuing further.
"Ah, unless..." Wise King Gilgamesh also wore the same expression, continuing to speak in riddles.
Siduri, standing aside, said nothing. She knew very well that the King and Merlin could see things she couldn't and knew many things.
Siduri wouldn't ask about things she shouldn't. If the King and Merlin had something they wanted to tell her, they would naturally say it, and she would carry out their wishes.
Therefore, Siduri just listened silently, not at all tempted to ask 'unless what?' because of their cryptic behavior.
"However, the Chaldea group came to this era not only to solve the problems of this age but also to obtain information on the Human Order Incineration."
Wise King Gilgamesh smiled, his voice carrying a hint of joy. "It seems this King will be able to make an appearance again. This is truly delightful."
"Mm." Merlin nodded slightly, smiling. "I'm quite happy too. After all, I'll be making an appearance again as well. I wonder how the Romani in the video will react when he sees me~"
Merlin's voice was full of joy; clearly, he couldn't wait to see the scene of his meeting with Romani.
Seeing Merlin like this, Wise King Gilgamesh couldn't help but laugh loudly. "Hahahahaha, you fellow. You claim to have no human emotions, yet you really are wicked! To actually look forward to this."
After laughing, Wise King Gilgamesh calmed down a bit and said calmly, "However, more than the events of this world, this King looks forward to the 'future outcome'."
Even these eyes have their limits. Wise King Gilgamesh couldn't see the future, so he was also curious about what the final ending would be.
"Mm." Merlin nodded slightly. He felt the same; he was also very curious.
What kind of end would Mash, Fujimaru Ritsuka, and Romani Archaman meet?
But for now, he was even more curious about what kind of startling performance the Romani in the video would show upon seeing him~
The video continued playing.
Mash and Fujimaru Ritsuka successfully entered Seventh Singularity and met with the goddess Ishtar.
Afterward, they encountered Enkidu, who helped Fujimaru Ritsuka and Mash resolve some minor troubles.
Furthermore, Enkidu very enthusiastically intended to take Fujimaru Ritsuka and Mash to Uruk.
Later, Merlin appeared again, showing up with a young girl. As soon as he appeared, he said that the current King Gilgamesh was the king who had returned after searching for the herb of immortality.
It was this single sentence that made Mash show a very shocked expression, while Fujimaru Ritsuka on the side was somewhat confused as to what was going on.
Then Mash and Merlin began to explain.
Because King Gilgamesh had gone to search for the herb of immortality specifically because of Enkidu's death.
In that case, who was the Enkidu currently standing before them?
Subsequently, a battle began. After several rounds of exchange, Enkidu's unimaginably powerful combat ability suppressed Mash and the Servant named Anna.
But soon, Enkidu discovered that the people before him had vanished; he had unknowingly fallen into an illusion.
On the other side, Fujimaru Ritsuka and Mash were also in a state of confusion. Just a second ago, they had been at an absolute disadvantage.
Fujimaru Ritsuka had even intended to have Mash release her Noble Phantasm to use the city walls to crush Enkidu, but in the next moment, the Enkidu before them vanished, and they were transferred to another location.
"Hahahaha~~~"
At this time, Merlin's cheerful laughter rang out. He looked at Fujimaru Ritsuka and smiled. "My, my, everything went very smoothly, very smoothly~ Although I feel a bit bad about deceiving a child."
"But that is Enkidu. That youth is the direct subordinate of the Demon God King."
"Enkidu is a subordinate of the Demon God King?" Fujimaru Ritsuka was also a bit dazed, never expecting that the youth who was so kind earlier was actually a subordinate of the Demon God King. She continued to ask, "Was that the real person just now?"
"Mm." Merlin nodded slightly, looking at Fujimaru Ritsuka and explaining, "He himself has been using that name to destroy many fortress cities, though the people of Uruk believe he's an impostor."
"But unfortunately, that kind of combat power is the genuine Enkidu himself. You all should be careful; although he looks beautiful, he is a weapon for slaughtering humans."
After finishing with the matter of Enkidu, Merlin smiled and said quite happily, "In conclusion, everyone! Please allow me to formally greet you. I did, after all, rescue you in a moment of crisis."
"I hope you can offer me overwhelming words of gratitude!"
Being a good girl, Mash obediently put away her shield, gave Merlin a slight bow, and said gratefully, "Understood! Thank you very much!"
"Thank you..." Fujimaru Ritsuka also wanted to say some words of gratitude.
But at this moment, Fou quietly climbed onto her shoulder, causing Fujimaru Ritsuka to look at her shoulder with some surprise.
She then discovered that Fou was currently in a 'predatory' stance. His claws were out, his body was coiled, and his expression had become quite 'ferocious'.
Swoosh—!!!
Fou charged toward Merlin, his body spinning at high speed, and cried out, "Fou Fou Fou!!! Wu!!! Merlin must die Fou!!"
This was probably the first time Fou had spoken after so many Singularities, which also made the people outside the video realize—this cute mascot could actually talk?!
Slap!!!
Fou's paw struck Merlin's face, leaving a claw mark on it.
Fujimaru Ritsuka and Mash were shocked by the scene before them, because the always gentle and kind Fou had actually initiated an attack on a'stranger'.
What on earth was going on?!
"Fou?!" Mash instinctively reached out to stop Fou's actions. After all, this was too impolite; the other person was someone who had saved their lives.
However, Fou and Merlin were scuffling together, and Merlin shouted loudly, "What are you doing!! You fierce beast! Have you even forgotten my kindness in taking care of you for all those years?!"
"Dammit!" Merlin said while struggling with Fou, "If I'd known, I shouldn't have adopted a beast like you! Cath Palug!"
"O fearsome cat of calamity! How many paw-pad lovers have you deceived with that cute appearance of yours?"
Fujimaru Ritsuka was stunned watching this scene, and she couldn't help but say, "A struggle on the same level as Fou."
"Sigh." The young girl Anna on the side sighed, looking at Merlin and saying calmly, "Please do this kind of abnormal behavior and unsightly display alone in the middle of the night."
It was also at this time that Merlin finally subdued Fou, allowing him to quiet down. He also smiled at Anna and said, "Thanks for your hard work, Anna. Thanks to you, I'm saved again."
"This was a battle outside the scope of our contract," Anna replied calmly. "Instead of thanks, please reflect on yourself more."
"Hahaha~~ You really are strict." Merlin smiled, then he stood up, looked at Fujimaru Ritsuka and Mash, and said, "Well then, let's all introduce ourselves."
"I am Merlin, and this girl is Anna. She's actually a Servant. I hope you won't be formal; just call me Big Brother Merlin~"
As he spoke, Merlin looked at Anna, who was standing aside without saying a word, and asked, "What about Anna? How does Anna want to be called?"
"Doesn't matter, just call me Anna." Anna's tone was very calm, then she added indifferently, "Also, I hate humans. Please try not to come near me."
Mash showed a look of slight confusion.
"Ah, ah~" Merlin added with a smile, "Please don't mind Anna's attitude. She just really hates humans, there's no hidden story."
"Wait!"
At this moment, a rather quiet voice came from Fujimaru Ritsuka's hand.
"Eh?" Fujimaru Ritsuka raised her hand in confusion, placing it by her ear, intending to listen carefully to what the other party was saying.
"ALL OF YOU WAIT A MINUTE—!!!!!!"
Romani Archaman's voice was exceptionally loud, giving Fujimaru Ritsuka a direct startle.
At this moment in Chaldea, Dr. Roman stood up in shock, with Da Vinci behind him drinking coffee with a speechless expression.
Dr. Roman said in great shock: "Because things were so astonishing that I was stunned senseless in front of the screen, and now that I've finally returned to normal, I'm shouting 'hold on' with all my might!! Merlin!? You say you're Merlin?!"
Then Dr. Roman quickly introduced: "The Great Magus of the British Isles, a half-incubus, half-human who supported Artoria Pendragon as King, then became a court Magus—the world's preeminent king-maker and top-tier good-for-nothing!"
"Is that Merlin really there?! And as a Servant?! That Grand Caster who can't die until the end of the world?!"
Anna quietly nodded. Although she didn't know that person, she agreed with the part about Merlin being a top-tier good-for-nothing.
"Doctor..." Mash's expression was a bit subtle.
"He said so much in one breath." Fujimaru Ritsuka's expression was just as subtle as Mash's; she also felt that Dr. Roman seemed a bit too agitated.
"Wahahaha~"
Merlin walked up to Fujimaru Ritsuka and grasped her hand that wore the communication device. He smiled, as if greeting an old friend. "A predictable introduction. Thank you very much, Romani Archaman."
"That's right, I am Big Brother Merlin, the Grand Caster, the Magus among Magi. But well actually I only have the qualifications for the Grand class; my saint graph is still ordinary, so for now I'm just a mere Caster"
"THAT'S!!! IM!!! POS!!! SI!!! BLE!!!!"
Dr. Roman's voice was somewhat distorted as he shouted, "How could Merlin be Heroic Spirit-ized! Although you look like the real deal, you liar! Fake Merlin! If you're the real one, show your true self!!!"
"Fou~" Fou said something incomprehensible on the side.
"Things have gotten a bit messy." Fujimaru Ritsuka scratched her head, looking quite confused. "Why is the Doctor so agitated?"
"It is likely because this contradicts the legends of the Magus Merlin." Seeing Fujimaru Ritsuka's confusion, Mash continued to explain, "The Magus Merlin built a tower within the utopia of Avalon."
"He won't die there, gazing at the entire world for eternity. Avalon is the tower at the 'World's End,' located outside of time, which will not disappear until the end of human history."
"So Merlin is still alive now, and living people cannot become Heroic Spirits. What the Doctor meant should be this part."
"Exactly!" Dr. Roman nodded, saying very seriously: "Merlin is a hero who cannot be counted as a Heroic Spirit, although there is indeed the possibility of being summoned due to some abnormal situation, like Scathach..."
"But! Fundamentally, that man is! Absolutely useless in terms of combat!!!"
Perhaps because he was getting more and more excited, Dr. Roman wanted to prove that the Merlin in front of them was a fake. He quickly explained: "Magi qualified for the Grand all possess extraordinary Clairvoyance. For example, King Solomon had eyes that could see through the past and the future."
"King Gilgamesh has eyes that see through the future, and that trash over there has eyes that can see everything in the present!"
"Although there are differences in their respective precision and distance, each one has the ability as an 'Observer.' But basically, they are all supernatural powers that can only see, and Merlin's is especially the worst!!!"
At this moment, Dr. Roman's voice was full of disdain. He shouted: "Because that's just 'very convenient'! If you want to say what Merlin can do, at most it's peeping at the entire Earth from the tower of Avalon."
"In modern terms, it's just to the extent of being able to freely browse the contents of the entire Internet... that's all..."
Speaking to this point, Dr. Roman's voice suddenly paused. His expression in the video became very subtle, showing a look as if some'secret' had been discovered.
"Although it's indeed not cool enough," Fujimaru Ritsuka complained slightly, "it seems like a very impressive thing."
Thud!
At this time, Dr. Roman collapsed heavily, as if he had realized something.
"Doctor?" Fujimaru Ritsuka was puzzled, not understanding what had happened in the Control Room.
On Fujimaru Ritsuka's side, Merlin showed a meaningful smile.
At this moment, the people outside the video knew that this existence named Merlin knew about Romani Archaman's affairs.
Because during Sixth Singularity, Holmes had said that Dr. Roman had hidden some information that was particularly important to the Human Order Incineration.
In other words... Merlin knows the secret that Dr. Roman is hiding?!
Because of this reason, Dr. Roman knew the other party knew his secret, so he collapsed?
Chapter 241: tablet of destiny
Naruto World, Akatsuki Organization.
"Is that Clairvoyance thing a necessary condition to become a Grand Caster?"
Deidara looked at this condition, his eyes widening slightly as he said somewhat incredulously: "This is too powerful. From the verbal description, it's unknown how many times more powerful it is than the Rinnegan and Sharingan."
"..."
Pain did not speak. He looked at Deidara with his Rinnegan, his eyes devoid of any emotion.
"..."
Uchiha Itachi did not speak. His eyes silently transformed into the Mangekyo Sharingan, reflecting Deidara's figure.
Itachi and Pain were considered to have relatively good tempers, but no matter how good a person's temper is, they wouldn't ignore that sentence.
"The usage is probably different." Sasori looked at Deidara, who had successfully attracted the attention of the two strongest members in the Akatsuki Organization with one sentence. He said calmly: "That Clairvoyance, Romani Archaman also said it, the other party just uses it to look."
"And that King Solomon and King Gilgamesh have different eyes from what Merlin possesses."
"King Solomon can see the past and future, Gilgamesh can see future images, and Merlin can only see the present. Although it's just'seeing'... Wait!"
Suddenly, Sasori seemed to have discovered some strange phenomenon. He complained slightly: "If you put it that way, then one thing is very strange."
"What is it?"
Kakuzu looked at Sasori curiously. He was still waiting for Sasori to help Deidara clear the enmity, but the other party suddenly blurted out 'wait,' which made him quite curious.
"No, I'm just curious. Since Gilgamesh has eyes that see through the future, did he see himself getting his arm cut off?"
Sasori said in a rather subtle tone: "After all, he was the one whose arm was cut off by that existence named Emiya Shirou."
"Although I feel that the two Gilgameshs are completely different people. After all, the way the two of them conduct themselves and do things is really different."
"The one who got his arm cut off feels like a kid who hasn't grown up yet, while the Gilgamesh in Seventh Singularity makes people feel quite admirable. This guy truly has the aura of a king; even I feel that working under him wouldn't be a bad choice."
Sasori's words also made everyone slightly stunned. Yeah, since Gilgamesh possesses Clairvoyance that sees through the future, why didn't he see through his own future?
"Itachi-san, what do you think?" Kisame instinctively looked at Itachi. He really didn't know the answer to this question, and relying on guessing would be too difficult for him.
Itachi deactivated the Mangekyo Sharingan and closed his eyes. After a moment of silence, he spoke slowly: "Perhaps, he sealed it himself."
"Because some people are born 'omniscient and omnipotent,' he might have actively closed his Clairvoyance to find some fun."
"The Gilgamesh of Seventh Singularity is different. The enemies he had to face in that era exceeded his limits, so he had to bet everything to fight, naturally going all out. The two situations are different, so naturally, their abilities also differ."
Although Itachi didn't have a particularly deep understanding of Gilgamesh, after two inventory videos, he felt the other party should be the type who is usually very lazy, even when facing strong enemies.
Unless he encounters something he deems worth getting serious about, this existence named Gilgamesh would become very powerful.
"But instead of this, shouldn't we be talking about Merlin?"
Deidara didn't care about any King Gilgamesh. He said with interest: "That Merlin saw through Dr. Roman's secret."
"Look at that Dr. Roman, his whole expression turned bad. And there's also Clairvoyance that sees through the future, that's really amazing. If I had those eyes, I'd directly bury unavoidable bombs on the future enemy's necessary path!"
"In that case, no matter what kind of enemy it is, I feel like I can deal with them!"
Thinking of this, Deidara's smile gradually became very happy.
Konan looked at Deidara's state and said indifferently: "That's impossible. Even if you went to that world, you probably wouldn't be able to obtain those eyes. But more than that, I'm curious about what Romani Archaman's secret is."
"We've known from the beginning that this guy was hiding something. That Holmes also said he was hiding some important information, and Da Vinci even said he was hiding a trump card."
"Now that Merlin knows his secret, I wonder if he'll speak it out next."
Yes, Konan was very curious about what secret Romani Archaman was hiding; it's a woman's nature.
"Probably not." Itachi shook his head. As if he had seen through everything, he said calmly: "Romani Archaman's secret will likely only be exposed during the final battle. For now, let's just watch quietly."
Detective Conan World.
"Hmm..."
Kudo Shinichi, known as the heisei holmes, was currently sitting cross-legged on his bed. He narrowed his eyes slightly, recalling the 'Dr. Roman' from Mash's dream earlier.
That person should be Solomon, the King of Mages. His tone of voice and that final laughter proved he was Solomon, the King of Mages.
Although Kudo Shinichi felt the other party should be a fake rather than King Solomon.
However, before the real King Solomon appeared, he would still use this title to refer to him, as the other party had no 'other name' after all.
"Is the focus Mash?" Kudo Shinichi looked at Mash in the video, reasoning with a very serious expression: "Whether it's Lev or anyone else, they all place great importance on Mash. That King of Mages also held a different attitude toward Mash when he appeared."
"Could it be that my reasoning direction was wrong? The focus of the Human Order Incineration isn't on Romani Archaman, but on Mash?"
If not for that scene in Mash's dream, Kudo Shinichi might have continued to guess what secret Romani Archaman was hiding, and would even be particularly interested in the secret held by Merlin.
Only now, Kudo Shinichi couldn't understand why the King of Mages would seek out Mash.
And was what the other party said intended to make Mash completely believe this world is useless and needs to be destroyed?
Or was it simply to gain Mash's approval?
If so, why gain Mash's approval?
Isn't Mash's identity just Galahad? No... it shouldn't be the identity of a Heroic Spirit, it should be about being a designer baby.
Kudo Shinichi felt his head ache a bit. Too much information had been revealed about Seventh Singularity, and he felt he couldn't quite straighten out the threads.
However, the only thing Kudo Shinichi could be clear about was that Solomon, the King of Mages, had a very unique feeling toward Mash.
As for why the other party disguised himself as Dr. Roman, Kudo Shinichi thought it might just be a coincidence, since Dr. Roman was Mash's attending physician.
It was perfectly reasonable for the other party to discuss the issue of 'life' with Mash.
Of course, it couldn't be ruled out... that Dr. Roman is the mastermind, that he is King Solomon!
But the personality difference between the two was a bit large. Solomon, the King of Mages, had no points of connection with Dr. Roman.
Even Holmes said that the other party merely possessed important evidence regarding the Human Order Incineration, but as for what it was, he wasn't quite sure.
The role the other party played in this incident was [a mysterious figure who, although incomprehensible, has no connection to the incident and is dispensable, only causing trouble].
"This is more than just one puzzle piece."
At this moment, Kudo Shinichi felt his head ache. Originally, he thought he was only missing the most important piece of the puzzle, and as long as he found this piece, he could solve the Human Order Incineration incident.
Looking at it now, it's not just missing the most important piece, but many pieces haven't been gathered yet!!!!
With all sorts of doubts intertwined, Kudo Shinichi could understand why even Holmes felt a huge headache over this incident.
"Sigh, I can only keep watching."
Helpless, Kudo Shinichi could only choose to continue watching the video, hoping to obtain some clues from it.
The video continued playing.
After a brief conversation with Merlin, Fujimaru Ritsuka, Mash, and Anna headed toward Uruk with Merlin.
On the way, they briefly exchanged information. Anna was a stray Servant who, for various reasons, had signed a contract with Merlin.
As for what the contract was, Fujimaru Ritsuka and Mash didn't ask, and Merlin and Anna didn't say.
Finally, they arrived at Uruk and met King Gilgamesh. Then, the two sides, who were supposed to be allies, inexplicably got into a fight.
Mash and Anna fell into a disadvantage. After King Gilgamesh briefly warmed up, Ishtar, who was called the disgrace of goddesses by everyone, arrived.
It must be said that although Ishtar's performance in the later plot seemed rather embarrassing, her appearance now was still very magnificent, letting people see how strong a goddess's physical techniques were.
Afterward, Ishtar looked at Anna as if she had seen through something and intended to leave. She also claimed that she would only come to protect Uruk after that half-naked King of Uruk died and Siduri raised the white flag of surrender.
Then came a brief talk. Gilgamesh stated he didn't need Chaldea's help, but since they had come anyway, if they 'insisted on staying to provide help no matter what,' he would reluctantly agree.
Finally, Fujimaru Ritsuka and Mash were sent to do odd jobs. This result left countless people surprised and speechless.
No matter how you look at it, Fujimaru Ritsuka and Mash were battle-hardened existences. Letting them 'do chores' wasn't that a waste of talent?
Then time slowly passed. Fujimaru Ritsuka and Mash experienced many events in Uruk, and later even traveled with Gilgamesh.
They also witnessed an encounter battle between 'Enkidu' and King Gilgamesh, truly realizing how terrifying a god-made weapon could be.
After a period of rest, Fujimaru Ritsuka and Mash received a summons from King Gilgamesh.
"Did you call for us? King?" After King Gilgamesh finished handling his affairs, Fujimaru Ritsuka, Mash, and Merlin appeared.
"This King remembered something and called you here."
Wise King Gilgamesh looked at the arriving Fujimaru Ritsuka and the others, saying calmly: "Go and bring back the tablet of destiny."
"Eh?"
Merlin showed a quite surprised expression.
"The tablet of destiny?" Fujimaru Ritsuka was also somewhat puzzled, not quite understanding what the tablet of destiny was.
"That's right." Wise King Gilgamesh nodded slightly, looking at Fujimaru Ritsuka seriously: "The tablet records the future this King saw during meditation in the past."
Fujimaru Ritsuka looked at Wise King Gilgamesh, his expression somewhat puzzled: "Since it's something the King wrote, you should still remember the contents, right?"
Wise King Gilgamesh continued to handle government affairs. He didn't look at Fujimaru Ritsuka, answering: "Why should this King remember the prophecies of Clairvoyance recorded while half-asleep and half-awake?"
Fujimaru Ritsuka complained slightly: "In other words, you write a diary while sleeping? Is that kind of thing common?"
"Occasionally." Wise King Gilgamesh said indifferently: "Although destiny refers to things sent down by the gods, for this King, it comes from Clairvoyance."
"Sometimes I suddenly learn of a 'future' unrelated to myself and record it unconsciously."
"Although it is meaningless to this King, to others, it would be a priceless treasure."
Saying so, Wise King Gilgamesh glanced at Mash and Fujimaru Ritsuka, then he showed a smile and continued: "The demonic beasts couldn't possibly know the value of that thing. There's a high probability it's been left ignored."
"..."
Mash and Fujimaru Ritsuka showed rather helpless smiles.
Merlin looked at Wise King Gilgamesh with a hint of 'complaint': "Then did you remember where you put the tablet?"
Wise King Gilgamesh nodded slightly, saying: "That was a tablet recorded in the city of Uruk on the way back to Uruk from the underworld."
"It's not in the western forest at all."
At this time, Mash approached Fujimaru Ritsuka, her voice carrying a hint of curiosity: "Being able to walk back from the underworld, it feels so ethereal."
"Indeed."
But Wise King Gilgamesh heard their conversation and also said calmly: "To this King, your world over there is the strange one, actually lacking an underworld and gods."
Siduri also added at this moment, "Uruk is currently within the sphere of influence of the Goddess Ishtar."
The implication was that if you go over there, you will very likely end up fighting Ishtar.
"Anyway, we'll end up fighting that woman sooner or later, so it saves us quite a bit of trouble."
As he spoke, Wise King Gilgamesh looked at Fujimaru Ritsuka and said seriously, "This is a royal decree: head to Uruk immediately and retrieve the tablet of destiny!"
Outside the video.
Seventh Singularity, Absolute Demonic Front: Babylonia world.
"So it was in Uruk~" Merlin looked toward Wise King Gilgamesh and smiled, "It seems I've obtained some rather good intelligence."
By now, Merlin had already been sent by Wise King Gilgamesh to search for the tablet of destiny several times. Although Merlin also knew that Wise King Gilgamesh had thrown him over there with the attitude of having him resolve some special incidents.
Even though he knew it clearly, Merlin did not refuse Wise King Gilgamesh. However, things were different now; having finally caught Wise King Gilgamesh in a vulnerable spot, he certainly didn't want to let it go easily.
"Fool, don't tell me you want to go get the tablet of destiny now?"
Wise King Gilgamesh's red eyes looked at Merlin, and he said in a calm tone, "If you go get it now, this King doesn't mind, but I don't know what kind of thoughts the future Fujimaru Ritsuka will have."
After learning that Chaldea was about to visit this world, Wise King Gilgamesh knew that the tablet of destiny was a treasure that belonged to them.
Because Wise King Gilgamesh knew a little bit about what was recorded on it—just a little bit, which is why he didn't care at all, and even used this as an excuse to make Merlin run around.
"Well~ I don't think it matters." Merlin revealed a very gentle smile and said with a bit of dark humor, "After all, she can see the tablet of destiny in the video, so this treasure is no longer precious."
Having watched the video for so long, Merlin also knew more or less what would happen next.
The tablet of destiny left behind by Wise King Gilgamesh would become an important clue for detectives, beings like Holmes, to solve cases.
Fujimaru Ritsuka would likely be able to see different intelligence from it, but now that the video was about to expose all of this, the tablet of destiny had become unimportant.
"Mm! That's right." Wise King Gilgamesh revealed a quite pleased smile, looked at Merlin, and said, "So, you need to complete your own mission, right?"
"Eh?!"
Merlin was slightly stunned. His original intention was to tell Wise King Gilgamesh that it wouldn't matter if he went to get the tablet of destiny.
As a result, Wise King Gilgamesh was now saying he should go complete this mission?! What a joke; he was already busy enough slacking off.
"It's decided! The task of searching for the tablet of destiny is handed over to you." Seeing Merlin's little expression, Wise King Gilgamesh continued happily, "Anyway, it's still early before those guys from Chaldea arrive, so you might as well stretch your body a bit."
"You're really squeezing the labor force here." Merlin looked at Wise King Gilgamesh and complained slightly, "It's not easy for me right now. I have to keep an eye on 'her' while helping you, and later I even have to assist Fujimaru Ritsuka and Mash from Chaldea."
"Hahahahahaha." Wise King Gilgamesh laughed loudly, and he didn't continue speaking.
After all, Merlin was truly working hard; half the credit for his ability to stabilize the situation right now belonged to the other party.
"However, Romani Archaman is going to have a headache, since it won't be long before he is exposed." Watching Fujimaru Ritsuka and Mash in the video, who were about to set off, Wise King Gilgamesh smiled and said, "To tell you the truth, this King recorded things regarding 'Solomon' on that tablet."
"It's possible that with a slip of the hand, I wrote directly that Solomon had become Romani Archaman."
"Eh?!!!" Merlin was slightly stunned, then revealed a very'sad' (pleased) smile. He looked at Wise King Gilgamesh and said, "Is that true?"
"I don't know, but this King certainly recorded things regarding Solomon. As for what exactly, I only have a rough impression."
Wise King Gilgamesh still remembered part of the content of the tablet of destiny; to say he didn't know at all would definitely be a lie.
"I wonder what kind of thoughts Fujimaru Ritsuka will have after seeing the content on the tablet of destiny."
Wise King Gilgamesh was also a bit curious about the plot to come, and at the same time, if he really had written on the tablet of destiny that Romani Archaman was Solomon.
He didn't know what kind of thoughts that Dr. Roman would have; he probably would even have the urge to kill him.
Thinking of this, Wise King Gilgamesh and Merlin exchanged a smile and quietly reached a consensus.
One-Punch Man World, Saitama's house.
"The tablet of destiny—does it record things regarding the future?"
Genos looked at King Gilgamesh and Merlin, who had reappeared in the video. He rubbed his chin and analyzed, "Could it be about the Human Order Incineration?"
"That's likely what it is." Tatsumaki also felt that the tablet of destiny nine times out of ten recorded intelligence on the Human Order Incineration.
It was just unknown what kind of intelligence it was, but now that King Gilgamesh was having Fujimaru Ritsuka and Mash go retrieve the tablet of destiny, it meant the intelligence on it was very important.
"I don't think intelligence on the Human Order Incineration is important anymore."
Genos watched Fujimaru Ritsuka and the others in the video who had already started moving. He said very calmly, "After all, the final enemy has already been determined, so next, we just need to defeat the other party. As long as we successfully defeat the other party, we can resolve the Human Order Incineration."
In Genos's view, since it had already been determined that the final enemy was the Demon God King Solomon, there was no need to continue investigating intelligence on the Human Order Incineration.
If they had time for that, it would be better to think about how to kill Solomon. Although the other party was a Grand Magus, they also had a Grand Assassin on their side.
Wasn't King Hassan a Heroic Spirit standing on their side?
If he took action, then he could probably contend with Solomon, right?
Although Genos wasn't very clear about whether there were differences in strength between Grand Servants, in his impression... it should be about the same as the so-called S-Class Hero rankings.
Genos admitted that he was no match for Tatsumaki, but at the very least, he was confident he could trade a few blows with her.
Although it was only a few blows, it could still be considered barely contending with her.
Of course, besides Tatsumaki, in Genos's perception of other S-Class Heroes, even Bang, the third-ranked S-Class Hero.
Genos felt that if he went all out, he might even have a chance to counter-kill. Although there was a gap in strength between them, it also depended on the situation.
In close-quarters combat, Genos admitted he was inferior to Bang, but if it came to firepower attacks, the other party was definitely inferior to him.
Therefore, Genos felt that King Hassan and Solomon were probably in such a situation.
"That's not necessarily the case." Saitama yawned and looked at Genos, saying, "Just like that reversed Tristan, once you obtain false intelligence, you have to pay an unimaginable price to make up for that mistake."
"Being full of confidence is a good thing, but Genos, you need to think about this: the other party claims to be the Demon God King Solomon, but is he really Solomon?"
Saitama raised the simplest question. Nowadays, all kinds of intelligence from Chaldea said that the final enemy was the Demon God King Solomon.
But was the other party really the final enemy? Although the plot shown now was similar to a hero fighting a dragon, who knows if this dragon might turn into a Demon King.
Although the definitions of the two were similar, the names were different, and the weaknesses would also become different.
"I see, that is also a possibility."
Genos also revealed an expression of sudden realization. He nodded very seriously and looked at Saitama, saying, "Teacher is right; sometimes intelligence can be deceptive."
"Is it possible that he's overthinking it?" Tatsumaki subconsciously retorted, because she also felt that there was indeed no need to continue investigating the so-called Human Order Incineration right now.
As long as the enemy was wiped out, there wouldn't be so many problems.
"Overthinking is better than not thinking at all." Saitama looked at Tatsumaki very seriously and said, "After all, if you don't budget carefully, it's hard to continue living."
"Budget carefully? What are you referring to?" Tatsumaki was confused; her life was very good right now.
"Supermarket sales! And various discounts on ingredients, and so on!!!"
Saitama looked at Tatsumaki dead seriously and said, "These things require careful budgeting. Spending one cent less today can make your life better tomorrow!"
"..."
Tatsumaki slightly covered her forehead. She probably understood what Saitama meant by now, but his life was too miserable!!! Was this the life of the strongest man on Earth?!!
"Teacher is right." Genos nodded seriously on the side, although he didn't know why Teacher compared supermarket sales and ingredient discounts to the Human Order Incineration.
But since Teacher said so, there must be his own deep meaning behind it.
The video continued playing.
Because it was late when they arrived at Uruk, Fujimaru Ritsuka and the others set up camp to rest, planning to go into Uruk the next morning to search for the tablet of destiny.
A while before the sun was about to rise, Fujimaru Ritsuka walked out of the tent.
"Oh my~" Merlin, who was in charge of keeping watch, looked at Fujimaru Ritsuka who had come out and smiled, "It's still a long way until dawn."
Fujimaru Ritsuka smiled, stretched her body, looked at Merlin, and said, "I want to complete my daily mandatory training."
As the Master of Chaldea and also the last Master of humanity, Fujimaru Ritsuka's sense of crisis was stronger than anyone else's, so she would train every day to improve her strength, even if only a little.
During the journey, she also received guidance from many Servants, improving a portion of her strength.
"You're really enthusiastic." Merlin looked at Fujimaru Ritsuka and smiled, "But is it necessary for you to train your body?"
Merlin's meaning was very clear: as the Master, Fujimaru Ritsuka's only role was to command and provide magical energy to the Servants so that they could fight in their most perfect state.
As for Fujimaru Ritsuka herself, as the Master, she didn't need to fight, and training her body was also an unnecessary thing.
"Because I'm just a human, and as a Master, I'm also a half-baked one." Hearing Merlin's words, Fujimaru Ritsuka smiled slightly and replied, "At the very least, I should train my body."
As she spoke, Fujimaru Ritsuka began doing warm-up exercises.
Merlin looked at Fujimaru Ritsuka like this and couldn't help but sigh, "I think you are already very outstanding."
"Thank you." Fujimaru Ritsuka was not arrogant or complacent; she said seriously, "But this is also thanks to everyone, because I received everyone's help and also received Mash's protection."
"Ah..."
Mash inside the tent opened her eyes; clearly, she had heard Fujimaru Ritsuka's words.
Fujimaru Ritsuka looked up at the starry sky, watching the many stars above, and continued, "Being chosen as the main member for Spiritron Transfer was also because I was the only one who survived."
"Precisely because of this, as long as it is something I can do, I am willing to try, even if it is meaningless."
"..."
Hearing these words from Fujimaru Ritsuka, Merlin revealed a rather surprised expression, then he showed a gentle smile, looked at the starry sky above, and said, "Is that so? I see."
"No matter when, it is always ordinary humans who shoot down the stars."
Listening to Merlin's words, Fujimaru Ritsuka tilted her head slightly and asked in confusion, "Stars??"
"No." Merlin didn't want to continue speaking, and he sighed with emotion, "It's just a thing of the past."
Afterward, it became dawn, and Fujimaru Ritsuka and her group arrived inside Uruk.
"This is Uruk, the city that stopped all activity overnight." Mash looked at the surrounding buildings, and for a moment, she actually didn't know what to say.
Anna looked at the damaged buildings around them and continued, "But the damage is so severe. Could it be that after the residents all died, it was attacked by Demonic Beasts?"
"No." At this moment, Dr. Roman appeared after a long time and explained, "It doesn't look like that. The only life signs in this city are you all; the Demonic Beasts did not enter the city from the outside."
"Although I don't know the reason why, it seems the Demonic Beasts are afraid of this city."
"Hmm." Merlin listened to Dr. Roman's words, nodded slightly, and said, "Indeed, my sixth sense of 'only you must save your own life, oh' is also telling me that there is no threat here."
"There is only a terrifying silence, and a death that can even be called peaceful."
"...It seems both King Gilgamesh and I overlooked this place; the incident in Uruk is completely different from other cities."
"I even think it was fated that the King would place the [tablet of destiny] here."
As he spoke, Merlin smiled and looked at everyone, saying, "However, before thinking too deeply, let's go treasure hunting first."
"Mash, go to the East District; I'll go to the North District; Anna, go to the West District; and then Fujimaru Ritsuka, go to the South District to take a look."
Hearing Merlin's words, Mash instinctively objected, "No, this is too... After all, I am Senpai's Servant, I cannot leave the Master."
"It's fine~" Merlin looked at Mash and smiled, "Fortunately, the Demonic Beasts can't get in, and Fujimaru Ritsuka still has Roman's navigation."
"By the way, Cath Palug is also here. Don't underestimate this guy; in a crisis, this guy is actually quite capable."
"Fou~"
Fou stood on Fujimaru Ritsuka's shoulder, as if saying, leave everything to me!
"But..." Mash was still a bit conflicted.
However, Fujimaru Ritsuka smiled at Mash, "It's okay, Mash. If we drag this out too long, it will get dark again, and that would be the worst. Plus, if I encounter any danger, I can still shout for help."
"Yes..."
Seeing that Fujimaru Ritsuka had said so, Mash naturally had no intention of objecting.
Afterward, they began to disperse and act separately. Fujimaru Ritsuka, now with Fou, entered a room to conduct a simple investigation.
"It's as if time has been frozen." Fujimaru Ritsuka looked at the various daily necessities around her and could feel that the people here had all disappeared in an instant. But who on earth would do such a thing?
"?!"
Just as Fujimaru Ritsuka was thinking this, she suddenly noticed a figure flash by at the doorway.
This made her widen her eyes slightly and say quite shocked, "A figure?!"
As she spoke, Fujimaru Ritsuka quickly ran in the direction the figure had gone, and Fou also followed by her side.
Just as Fujimaru Ritsuka went to investigate that figure, Dr. Roman and Da Vinci at Chaldea couldn't help but be stunned.
"Eh?! Fujimaru Ritsuka's observation wave has disappeared?!"
Dr. Roman looked at the 'Fujimaru Ritsuka' who had disappeared from the screen, and his whole person revealed an expression of disbelief.
Da Vinci, standing beside him, also showed a look of surprise. She looked at Dr. Roman and said, "What did you say?!"
"No life signs detected!" Dr. Roman's voice showed a hint of panic. The last time this happened...
It was in Sixth Singularity, when he saw King Hassan.
"What's going on?!" Da Vinci also panicked when she heard this, as no life signs meant that Fujimaru Ritsuka was 'dead'!
"Fujimaru!!!" Dr. Roman urgently shouted, "Answer me quickly!! Fujimaru Ritsuka!!!!!!!"
At this moment, Fujimaru Ritsuka realized that she had unknowingly arrived at a strange place. It was pitch black, and eerie blue light flickered there.
Fujimaru Ritsuka looked at the scene before her with a surprised expression, because a second ago she was still chasing that mysterious figure, so why was she here the next second?!
She only remembered walking and then falling.
"Where is this? It doesn't look like Uruk."
Although Fujimaru Ritsuka was quite surprised, she instinctively began to explore.
"Fou!"
Before Fujimaru Ritsuka could take two steps, Fou Fou's wary cry made Fujimaru Ritsuka instinctively move back, only to find a mummy-like being appearing before her.
Fujimaru Ritsuka was startled. Anyone would be startled by this scene.
"A living person, it's a living person!"
People in black robes, like mummies, appeared. They blocked Fujimaru Ritsuka's path and muttered.
"Why are there living people in the Underworld, why!?"
"We were murdered, without dignity, without prayer, just abandoned."
"Are you here to mock? Are you here to plunder?"
"Are you here to escape? Are you here to discard?"
"Unforgivable, none of it is unforgivable."
"Warm breath, warm flesh, we don't want any of it!"
"Die! Die! Die!!!!!!!! Die die die die die die die die die die die die die die die die!!!"
These mummies were extremely hostile towards Fujimaru Ritsuka, who had come to this world. One of them even directly choked Fujimaru Ritsuka's neck, and the immense strength lifted her up.
Fujimaru Ritsuka was at a loss for this scene. She wanted to resist, but she couldn't.
"Fou——!!!"
At this moment, Fou Fou made a move, or rather, spoke. She let out a cute roar.
Those mummy-like beings seemed to sense some terrifying creature and retreated, their faces showing expressions of extreme fear.
Fujimaru Ritsuka fell to the ground. She coughed a few times, looking quite uncomfortable.
Fou Fou stood in front of Fujimaru Ritsuka, showing a rather 'fierce' expression, as if saying, don't come any closer, or else I won't be polite.
But those mummies, who had just been scared away by Fou Fou, now surrounded them again.
"Wait!"
At this moment, a familiar voice rang out. An old man in a black robe holding a staff appeared. He spoke in his unique voice, "Garula Spirit, that person is not dead yet."
"If you take this person, it will incur the wrath of the Master. Close the seven gates and return to your duty of guarding."
"Boom——!!!"
An invisible wind appeared. After hearing the old man's words, these mummies seemed to understand something. Blue light appeared on their bodies, and they vanished from the spot.
After those beings called 'Garula Spirit' disappeared, the old man looked at Fujimaru Ritsuka calmly and said, "They are not wrong, it is you who are rude, young one."
"You visited the Land of the Dead alive, so the Garula Spirit would naturally be angry. I shouldn't have helped you."
"Um... I'm sorry." Fujimaru Ritsuka found the old man in front of her very familiar, but couldn't recall who he was for a while.
"Hmm..." Saying that, the old man was silent for a moment, then slowly said, "However, I owe you a favor."
"Even though he is an unworthy disciple, you held onto your belief. Faith is sometimes synonymous with life, which means you are worth saving."
Just as Fujimaru Ritsuka was about to ask something.
The old man seemed to read her thoughts and continued, "The underground of Uruk is connected to the Underworld. You fell into the Underworld alive, but this is as far as it goes. I will close this door."
After speaking, a golden light fell upon Fujimaru Ritsuka and Fou Fou, making them float into the air.
Looking at Fujimaru Ritsuka, who was about to return to the surface, the old man said indifferently, "After you return to the surface, tell the Magus that the Underworld is still alive and well."
"Wait!!!" Fujimaru Ritsuka looked at the old man who had saved her life and shouted, "My name is Fujimaru Ritsuka, and you are?!"
The old man seemed to smile. He replied, "This old man's name is Ziusudra."
As these words fell, the scene changed again.
With Mash's call, Fujimaru Ritsuka slowly opened her eyes and saw Mash, Merlin, Anna, and others. She was momentarily confused.
"That's great!" Dr. Roman cheered, "Fujimaru Ritsuka's life signs have returned!"
"Doctor?" Fujimaru Ritsuka was still in a dazed state.
"How do you feel after waking up?" Da Vinci asked with a smile.
"Yes, I feel good." Fujimaru Ritsuka also calmed down. It seemed she had been pulled to another inexplicable place again.
She had experienced this more than once, so she was used to it.
However, beside her, Mash shed tears. She looked at Fujimaru Ritsuka, overjoyed, and said, "Senpai, you woke up... that's great, that's great."
"What's wrong, Mash?!" It was the first time Fujimaru Ritsuka had seen Mash cry, and she was exceptionally flustered.
"That's great, that's great." Mash wiped her tears, clearly unable to suppress her emotions for a moment.
"I'm sorry, Mash, for making you worry." Fujimaru Ritsuka also comforted her, "I'm fine now."
"Cough cough~" At this moment, Merlin coughed slightly and looked at the object in Fujimaru Ritsuka's arms, smiling, "That thing you're holding, it's the tablet of destiny, isn't it?"
Only then did Fujimaru Ritsuka realize that she was holding a tablet in her hand, she didn't know when it got there.
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