Starry Sea Border.
Inside the Avalon Tower.
Watching the live broadcast from the Fifth Singularity, Merlin couldn't help but smile. "Oh, oh, he really caused a huge stir as soon as he returned. Lord Natsukawa is as spirited as ever."
"As expected of Master. If no one keeps an eye on him, he'll do incredibly reckless things without the slightest awareness." Artoria also watching the broadcast, said with a laugh.
"Still, judging by the fact that he finally unleashed his full power and didn't cause massive destruction, it seems Master has some self-awareness."
"Hahaha, if that attack had landed, half of Washington might've been wiped out. The intensity of his Mana was comparable to a Divine Spirit's self-destruction. Truly worthy of being a first-generation fairy born from the planet."
(I don't know how my other self manages to cause trouble in front of him every day and still survive to this day, Merlin thought simultaneously.)
(Well, it also shows how much this Holy Sword bearer loves my other self. I sincerely hope my other self doesn't disappoint those feelings and do something bad like before. If that happens, even I couldn't bear to watch.)
"If nothing unexpected happens, with his current abilities plus our assistance, the Seventh Singularity should be smoothly resolved in the end. After that, I'll head there to help as well. With the powerful new Servant who appeared there, the only remaining threat is that Mother Creator."
"But the Sixth Singularity is a bit troublesome."
Merlin's words made Artoria furrow her brow and nod.
It had been six months since Human Order Incineration began. Aside from the two Singularities that appeared suddenly, the other seven Singularities had been continuously observed by Merlin. This also alleviated some pressure for Chaldea. From time to time, Merlin would provide hints to Roman through Magical Merry.
However, the Sixth Singularity was an exception.
In terms of the Singularity's strength, it surpassed even the Seventh Singularity. Up to now, neither Chaldea nor Merlin could interfere with it in any way. Even Merlin's Clairvoyance couldn't see the events within.
The Sixth Singularity was the most difficult one.
Merlin hadn't informed Chaldea of this fact. On one hand, Chaldea was now progressing smoothly on the path to restoring the Human Order, so there was no need to douse them with cold water at this moment. On the other hand, he also wanted to wait until he could investigate further before telling them.
But even now, with the Fifth Singularity conquered, Merlin still knew nothing about the Sixth Singularity.
"It's certain now. A shield, or rather a domain, has been placed there that isolates everything. Though I don't know who created it, their intent is clearly to hide everything happening inside."
"This will surely be the most difficult restoration of the Human Order so far."
"That's why I have to go there." Artoria said. "Since we know nothing, I'll go there first to investigate and establish a forward base. That way, Master and the others will have an easier time when they go."
Artoria wanted to head to the Sixth Singularity first.
This was a suggestion she had made some time ago. At the time, Merlin had gently refused, citing "let's observe further, there might be progress." But now, he truly couldn't refuse her.
According to Chaldea's schedule, the Fifth Singularity would conclude, and after a week's rest, they would head to the Sixth Singularity. Artoria hoped to pave the way for them before that.
Looking at Artoria's resolute expression, Merlin gave a helpless, bitter smile. "I understand. I'll send you there later, Lia… At this point, I can't persuade you anymore. Be careful when you get there."
"Thank you for your concern, Merlin. But now I have Avalon, so there's no need to worry about my safety." Artoria smiled and took something from behind her. "Besides, I don't plan to go alone. Ayaka and Ciel have prepared this for me."
What she pulled out was a scroll the size of a map, with a magical array inscribed on it.
Merlin smiled, stroking his chin. "Hmm, this is a magical formula for Servant summoning. I see, you plan to gather the Round Table there? That's truly a luxurious lineup."
With King Arthur herself performing the Servant summoning, the Knights of the Round Table would undoubtedly respond fully to the call.
Gathering under the King's name to fight for the salvation of humanity—for those Knights, this would surely be the most joyful thing.
"You've changed too, Lia." Merlin sighed. "If it were you from ten years ago, or when you were still alive, you probably wouldn't have thought of such a method at a time like this. This is also thanks to meeting Natsukawa… All the Knights would surely weep with gratitude knowing you're willing to rely on them. It's a pity I can't see it~~~"
"I'll pass that comment to the Knights without changing a single word."
"Hahaha~~~ Don't do that. They might come here and chase me down. My King, you can be really cruel sometimes."
After a bitter smile, Merlin stood up and moved to the side. "Then, let me escort you, my King."
"Thank you, Merlin. That leaves only Ayaka and Ciel here. Please take good care of them."
"Hmm, as per the King's orders."
◆━⊰✧⊱━◆
Inside the Sixth Singularity.
Within a pristine white castle.
On the throne deep within the throne room, someone who had been asleep opened their eyes. After a moment of silence—
"Merlin."
"Yes, what is it, my King?"
A melodious voice came from behind the throne. A figure faintly appeared in the shadows there.
"In the southeast of my domain, an intruder has arrived. Go and eliminate them."
An intruder.
It had been years since she last heard that word from his mouth.
The woman hiding in the shadows nodded slightly. "I understand. But considering their combat strength, please allow a Knight to accompany me."
"Permitted. I want good news within ten days."
"Rest assured, no matter who the intruder is, they will ultimately be driven out of your domain—your reign is eternal, my beloved King, [King Arthur]."