Mixed Doubles

Enkidu had come alone the previous night, bringing the Silver Wolf, Enkidu's own Master, to see Gilgamesh.

The proud Gilgamesh had merely declared, "The top floor is my territory," then left.

Enkidu had made a home downstairs without ceremony, acting entirely at home.

Aside from Sigma and his Watchers, no one knew about it.

That was why Alcides had loosed that arrow without hesitation. Otherwise, he would have chosen another time or another target.

Gilgamesh and Enkidu were both too proud to admit what they wanted.

They said, "Come, let's fight," but deep down, each wished they could stay together forever.

Neither was willing to say it first. If no one disturbed them, they might have gone on like that for a lifetime.

That arrow changed everything. Their temporary home had been destroyed, giving them the perfect reason to act together.

Heaven's Wedge and the Chain of Heaven would fight side by side once more.

Alcides waited for Gilgamesh. Vimana was faster, so Enkidu lagged a little behind.

When Alcides sensed Gilgamesh approaching, the corner of his mouth lifted. His plan had worked.

But a moment later, he sensed another power no weaker than Gilgamesh's. He had never met Enkidu, but once he considered everyone else, the answer was obvious.

Enkidu. It could only be Enkidu. Alcides had been summoned too late to witness Enkidu's battle with Gilgamesh.

But no one else could possess that presence. Why were those two together?

The love-hate bond between Gilgamesh and Enkidu was widely known.

Their first battle had been described as an all-out clash. If the Pale Rider had not interfered, it might have become a fight to the death.

He had thought they were enemies. With both of them coming for him, things had become troublesome.

He had a chance of winning