About two hours later, the door to Kazuya's room opened.
He stepped out with a towel draped over his shoulders and wearing an anything-but-subtle pair of pajamas, featuring a flashy print that resembled a smiling Gojou Satoru scattered across the fabric. The contrast between the comical pajamas and Kazuya's naturally intimidating presence made the scene almost surreal.
Beside him, Medb walked as if she had just conquered the world. The lazy smile on her face, her half-closed eyes radiating pure contentment, and her light steps made it abundantly clear just how satisfied she was. There was an aura of "happy wife" so blatant that anyone who saw them would know exactly what had happened.
"You really… overdo it. I've never taken a bath as long as I did today…" Kazuya remarked, adjusting the towel on his shoulder. "You could say you won the battle without needing to parade around the hallway with that 'victorious queen' smile."
Medb chuckled softly, deliberately brushing her shoulder against his.
"Overdo it? Darling, if I were overdoing it, you'd be passed out until tomorrow."
"Hmm, I think the one who passed out twice was you… though it's honestly impressive how quickly you regained consciousness…" Kazuya let out a light sigh, shaking his head, but the faint smirk he couldn't hide showed he was enjoying himself.
They continued down the softly lit hallway toward the dining hall.
"Oh, speaking of rewards," Kazuya broke the silence, "I had a meeting with some big shots today… and one of them was Serafall Leviathan."
Medb raised an eyebrow, intrigued.
"And what did that sparkly, glitter-filled girl want with you?"
"She offered marriage," he replied bluntly, as if discussing the flavor of tea. "A political arrangement. She becomes my wife, and in exchange, we formalize an alliance between factions."
Medb paused for a moment, glancing at him sideways, then let out an incredulous chuckle. "And you're telling me this now, after two hours with me? Honestly, Master, your timing borders on cruel."
"I just thought you'd want to give your opinion," Kazuya countered calmly. "Since you're always saying you're my queen, it's only fair."
The glint in Medb's eyes flickered between teasing and something more serious. After a few seconds, she sighed and responded, "Here's my advice: accept it. Political marriages have always existed, and if that girl is really putting her power on the table for a ring, you only stand to gain. As long as you know how to separate duty from desire."
"You're telling me to accept another marriage while walking beside me like you're my legitimate wife?"
Medb smiled with an almost infuriating confidence.
"Exactly. Because I know that, in the end, the one who truly rules your heart and body… is me. The rest are just alliances. I'm the indulgence."
Kazuya didn't reply immediately.
"…Don't let Ishtar hear you… or Ereshkigal, she's kind of possessive… Oh, and let's not forget Gil-chan…"
Medb brought a hand to her mouth and laughed, her melodic laugh almost a provocation.
"Oh, please. Ishtar might be a bit like me in some ways, but she melts completely when you compliment her. Ereshkigal… yes, she's jealous, but excessive jealousy only shows who's already lost. And as for Gilgamesh…" She tilted her head, lightly biting her lower lip, as if amused just by the thought. "Well, she can act as haughty as she wants, but we all know how much she loves being called 'my queen.'"
Kazuya sighed deeply, running a hand through his still-damp hair.
"…You also melt when I compliment you, you're jealous and possessive, and you love being called 'my queen.' So, I don't get why you're saying this…"
"…"
"…Isn't it obvious, Master? I'm not just a wife… I'm indulgence in the form of a woman. It's only natural that the others fear or admire me. In other words, they're just copies of me and will never measure up."
"You really have incredible self-esteem!" Kazuya muttered, unable to hold back a slight laugh.
Before Medb could retort, they reached the grand dining hall of Chaldea.
The sound of conversations, plates, and cutlery echoed from the other side of the door, mingled with the tempting aroma of freshly cooked food.
In the kitchen, Tamamo no Mae was busy stirring pots and organizing ingredients with the radiant dedication of a devoted wife. Beside her, Jeanne held a tray and helped with an almost maternal calm, while Asia smiled shyly, washing vegetables.
In the main hall, the atmosphere was less harmonious.
One of the women who first caught his attention was sprawled in a chair, as if etiquette was a concept invented solely for others. With her boots propped up on the table and a piece of meat in her hand, she devoured her meal with the enthusiasm of a barbarian at a feast; it was Mordred Pendragon, yes… the Knight of Rebellion.
Her body didn't boast exaggerated curves, but there was a raw, wild beauty to her. Slim, standing at just one hundred and fifty-four centimeters, she had a slender waist and a defined abdomen, shaped not by vanity but by the sword and battle. Her small bust harmonized naturally with her athletic silhouette. Her green eyes burned with an almost defiant intensity, accentuated by strong eyebrows and well-defined lashes. Her blonde hair, of medium length, was tied back in a practical ponytail, though some braids on the sides gave her a rebellious air.
On the other side, Saber Alter stared at her plate as if it had committed some offense against her dignity. Her expression said it all: "A hamburger would fix this, but of course, no one here has the slightest competence to bring me one." Meanwhile, Jeanne Alter remained in her own island of boredom. Arms crossed, her foot tapping the floor impatiently, her gaze that of someone who had lost patience before even entering the room. Her dark attire only heightened her "bored rebel queen" posture.
Altria maintained a serene demeanor, but her face lit up the moment Kazuya entered. Beside her was another woman… a sister? No. It was her Alter version, identical in appearance except for paler skin and lighter hair. Altria Alter huffed, trying to hide the blush creeping up her cheeks while muttering something inaudible. Both wore modern clothes—sweatpants and hoodies, differing only in color, with Altria's being cream and Altria Alter's black.
And finally, Enkidu, seated calmly, offered a serene smile, as if immune to the chaos brewing among the jealous wives, though the glint in their eyes betrayed a quiet joy at seeing Kazuya.
Silence fell for a moment as everyone noticed their entrance.
It wasn't just Kazuya's imposing figure in ridiculously flashy Gojou-printed pajamas, but also Medb's clearly satisfied and smiling demeanor, walking beside him as if she were the rightful lady of the house.
"…You've got to be kidding me," Jalter was the first to speak, eyes widening as she pointed. "That pajama. What is that, Master?!"
"A crime against fashion…" Salter muttered, rolling her eyes. "Utterly undignified."
"I think it's cute…" Altria said with a calm expression.
"Ridiculous…" Altria Alter shot back, but quickly averted her gaze, hiding the smile threatening to escape.
Mordred nearly choked on her meat from laughing so hard. "HAHAHAHA! Master, you look like a mix of samurai and circus clown!"
Before the chaos could escalate further, a gentle voice echoed calmly through the hall.
"I think… it's cool." Enkidu, seated in their serene posture, tilted their head slightly. "Those pajamas suit you, Master…"
"Thanks, Enkidu…" Kazuya merely sighed and pulled the towel tighter over his shoulders, as if resignedly accepting the rest of the comments. "As for the rest of you… no need to worry about my pajamas. I just came to cook."
From the kitchen, Tamamo raised her head and beamed with a radiant smile. "Ah, Goshujin-Sama! I've already got half of it ready for you. Come here, let's cook together, like a real couple~!"
As he waved to all the Servants in the dining hall and headed to the kitchen, Medb let out a victorious laugh at the other wives' reactions and approached, saying, "Phew… I can finally rest a bit… Being with the Master is exhausting, if you know what I mean… such a shame we had to come to the dining hall…"
The dining hall erupted into a buzz of jealousy, teasing, and crossed glances.
Kazuya merely sighed at it all…
It was Medb… being Medb…
He entered the kitchen, tossing the towel over a nearby chair. The space was warmed by the steam from the pots and the comforting aroma of food being prepared.
Tamamo no Mae immediately bounded over, her tail wagging as if she couldn't contain her happiness. She had beautiful, large, sparkling yellow eyes that shifted into golden hues. Her smooth, pinkish hair could be seen both long and short; with a front bang cut, she tied most of it back with a large blue ribbon, leaving some strands loose on the sides of her face. Her skin was radiant and fair, exuding an enchanting beauty. Of average height, she had a well-defined body with a striking bust. Despite her human appearance, she had some fox-like traits, such as her ears and possible tails, with soft golden fur… She wore an apron over casual clothes.
"Goshujin-samaaa! You took so long, I was starting to feel neglected!" She grabbed his arm and practically dragged him to the stove.
"Tamamo… watch the pan," Kazuya said calmly, moving the skillet to keep the hot oil from splashing.
"Eeh? Don't worry, even if I get burned, it'll be a scar of love!" she replied, her dreamy smile unwavering as she rubbed against his arm.
Jeanne, organizing a tray with already-served plates, sighed softly but didn't lose the gentleness in her gaze.
"Tamamo, please, don't get in the way. He came to cook, not to be your plaything. Master, let me help organize the spices and utensils so you don't get distracted."
She approached and, with an almost maternal calm, gently took the knife from Tamamo's hands before handing it to Kazuya.
"You always end up overwhelmed. I'm happy to ease some of that burden."
Kazuya took the knife and began chopping vegetables, his focus on the precise movement of the blade.
"You three have already done plenty. I'll finish the rest quickly. No need to worry so much."
"Kazuya… I want to help!" Asia suddenly spoke up, her voice shy but determined. Her hands, still wet from washing vegetables, gripped the edge of her white apron.
He glanced at her for a moment, and a faint smile escaped.
"Still not used to this kind of thing, Asia…? You don't need to ask my permission or be so shy about helping. Take care of the rice. Just rinse it well and put it in the rice cooker."
"Yes!" she replied, her face lighting up with encouragement. She headed to the sink, nearly tripping but with a sincere dedication that drew a small chuckle from Kazuya.
"Look at how cute she is," Tamamo commented, resting her chin on his shoulder as she watched Asia fumble. "But, Goshujin-sama, don't you think I'm much more efficient as a wife? I know all the spices you like, and I've already got the broth at the perfect point!"
"Being efficient is important," Jeanne interjected, her tone still gentle. "But what matters is sincerity. Asia may not have experience, but her effort is something even you, Tamamo, should admire."
Tamamo puffed out her cheeks, huffing like a sulky child.
"You always talk so nicely, but deep down, you just want his attention too, Jeanne-chan! I bet you're thinking about how you look like a serious, reliable wife right now."
Jeanne averted her gaze, a faint blush coloring her cheeks, but she maintained her composure. "If that makes him feel secure, I see no harm in it."
Kazuya paused his chopping for a moment, resting the knife on the cutting board. He looked at the three of them calmly, but the smile on his face betrayed how accustomed he was to this scene.
"You two have different ways of showing care. But in the end, that's what makes things… less heavy for me."
Tamamo immediately beamed, clinging even tighter to his arm. "See? He prefers my absolute devotion! Ehehee, I'm already the number-one wife in heart and in the kitchen~!"
"That's what you think," Jeanne murmured, without any hostility.
Asia returned from the sink at that moment, her face slightly wet from water splashes but with a sincere smile. "The rice is ready to cook!"
"Good job, Asia," Kazuya said, giving her a gentle pat on the head. After that, he finished chopping the vegetables, tossed them into an already-hot skillet, and let the sound of sizzling fill part of the kitchen. The aroma spread quickly, drawing curious glances through the small window connecting the kitchen to the dining hall.
As he stirred calmly, a murmur caught his attention.
"…Hamburger…"
Salter, leaning on the counter as if it were the last resort of a condemned soul, stared at him with eyes that said more than words: bring me decent meat or perish.
"You really came to the kitchen to ask for that…?" Kazuya raised an eyebrow, washing his hands before grabbing some ground beef.
"It's not a request. It's a demand," Salter shot back.
Before Kazuya could respond, another blonde head popped up beside him, with a mischievous grin and a piece of meat still in her mouth.
"HEHEHE! Hamburger?! Now we're talking my language!" Mordred slammed her hand on the wooden counter, excited. "Master, make two! No, three! I can handle more!"
"You've already eaten enough to feed a squadron…" Kazuya sighed, calmly shaping the meat patties. "If you explode afterward, don't come complaining."
Mordred just laughed, without a shred of shame. "Exploding gloriously on the battlefield of the dining hall is also a victory, Master!"
Salter rolled her eyes. "Pathetic."
"Jealous I'm getting the hamburger first, huh?!" Mordred shot back, her teasing glint almost childlike.
Kazuya just placed the two meat patties on the griddle, the aroma intensifying as he prepared the buns.
From the dining hall, new voices began to mingle with the buzz. One by one, other Servants entered the dining hall, drawn by the aroma and the commotion.
First came Edmond Dantès, dressed in simple yet elegant dark-toned clothes. As always, Valerie accompanied him, wearing a striking red dress…
Shortly after, Ereshkigal appeared. Her long golden hair cascaded over the black jacket she wore, contrasting with the short shorts that revealed her light frame. The moment her eyes landed on Kazuya, a blush spread across her delicate face. She tried to look away, but it was futile: every gesture betrayed the silent jealousy consuming her at seeing him with Jeanne, Asia, and Tamamo no Mae. Beside her, as always, was Ishtar. A tight black dress hugged her curves, complemented by high heels. Her sharp eyes first darted to Medb, then to Kazuya, and she huffed…
The next to enter was Miyamoto Musashi, who, contrary to what many might imagine, was a woman. A young woman with light pink hair swept to the side, with a playful ahoge and adorned with a black and red flower-shaped accessory, from which flowed fluttering ribbons. Her blue eyes sparkled with intensity, conveying both grace and confidence.
Her outfit drew even more attention. She wore a sleeveless top with a deep neckline, predominantly in dark tones, decorated with red and gold details. Her high-waisted skirt, in red and blue, featured a bold slit on the right side, revealing thigh-high black stockings. Secured by an ornate belt with intricate patterns and multiple layers, the piece blended the same vibrant colors as the rest of her attire. Over the top, she wore a long, flowing cape that matched the skirt and was marked by elaborate designs. The inner lining, adorned with leaf patterns, completed the refined motif. Her left arm was covered by a wide-ended red sleeve, while her right arm remained bare except for a black and red armband on her upper arm. On her wrist, ornate golden bracelets completed the contrast.
On her feet, red and blue pointed boots with golden buckles reached her knees, perfectly harmonizing with the ensemble.
And, of course, Musashi wouldn't be complete without her trademark: two katanas. The blades rested in ornate blue sheaths, their handles so intricately decorated they seemed like works of art in themselves.
"Hey, Master! That smell—is that hamburger? If it is, save four for me! Thanks!" She immediately came to the counter and ordered with a smile before heading to a table, thanking him without even waiting for a response…
A few moments later, Ozymandias strolled in calmly. The pharaoh walked as if he were in his own palace, his arrogant posture contrasting with Chaldea's simple environment. His elegant garments gleamed under the light, and his confident smile betrayed how much he already considered himself above everyone there. "Hmph. At least the aroma is worthy of my royalty. I hope the taste doesn't insult me."
And then, Gilgamesh entered next and went straight to the table beside Enkidu. Her gaze swept the room, and for a moment, it met Kazuya's. The tension in the air was immediate, but there was also a faint, dangerous, and enchanting smile at the corner of her lips.
In the kitchen, Kazuya flipped the hamburgers on the griddle, ignoring the growing chaos.
"I'm already starting to regret coming to cook today…" he muttered under his breath, but Tamamo heard and laughed, wagging her tails.
"Eeh, don't say that, Goshujin-sama! Your wife's love makes any effort worthwhile!"
Jeanne sighed, adjusting the tray. "It's going to be a long night…"
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