Gilgamesh did not need the approval of an incompetent guardian deity of the city-state. That was a fact.
But when Ishtar said those words, they represented far more than her approval as the city-state's guardian deity and mother.
It was an acknowledgment of everything Gilgamesh had done for this city-state over so many years. At last, he had become Uruk's [Wise King], recognized by everyone and everything.
Even though Uruk was on the verge of destruction, a faint smile still lingered at the corner of Gilgamesh's lips.
He did not want to admit it, but Ishtar's words had truly lifted his spirits considerably.
"Siduri, have all citizens still surviving within Uruk gather in the square before the royal palace."
He rose to his feet and straightened his appearance, making himself seem more dignified and spirited.
"Understood, my king."
Siduri bowed and departed.
She had long been prepared to sacrifice herself for this city, but as long as she still stood here, still stood at the feet of Uruk's king, she would fulfill her duties and responsibilities.
Gilgamesh merely turned away and entered his own chambers, quietly waiting for the right moment.
What he had to do was very simple.
Uruk was about to go to war. Uruk was about to be destroyed.
Yet the citizens remained in Uruk, still willing to make one final stand for it.
That was an acknowledgment of this city, and an acknowledgment of Gilgamesh as its king.
Therefore, he had to answer them.
He had to tell his citizens that Uruk would not be destroyed.
It would become a spirit, something engraved deep into memory, forever existing within human history.
"Tiamat will arrive this afternoon. How are you feeling, Musashibō?"
On the Demonic Beast Front, a faintly salty wind blew up from the depths of