Thank you for reading my fanfic!

My mother language is not English, so please be patient about the grammatical issues.

I don't own the Overlord(オーバーロードŌbārōdo?) novel or anime series created by Kugane Maruyama.

I don't own Zero no Tsukaima, or as many people call it The Familiar of Zero created by Noboru Yamaguchi

Please review it I know I will make mistakes what I will intend to correct and try to learn from my mistakes and improve myself.

Thank you!

Please enjoy the story!


Although Dawn had just broken, Guiche and Louise had already started preparing the saddles for their horses.

Louise was dressed in her Academy uniform; the only difference was that she now wore horse riding boots instead of shoes. Judging from that, it looked like lots of time would be spent riding the horse.

Guiche turned to Louise "Where is Zero? I thought he would come with us."

Louise frowned. "I don't know. Maybe he is with that maid or in the library or even wandering around somewhere. As he usually does. I never really know where he is in the moments of his absence."

"Hah. Typical Louise the Zero. She doesn't even know where her familiar is…"

Guiche just finished his line when he felt a feeling like the death itself appeared behind his back and placed his hand on his shoulder. Guiche slowly turned around with a dread on his face. Behind him stood Zero. On his waist attached Derflinger.

"Answering your question Guiche I stood behind you all along. Seriously you and everyone in this academy need serious work on their perception abilities."

"Hah. You told him partner!" interjected Derf

Zero and Guiche looked each other eyes. "Why are you so afraid. I don't understand." Zero scratched his emotionless face.

"I-It is nothing answered Guiche..." before Zero could say anything Louise interrupted him.

"Where were you! We are running late!" Yelled Louise from the background.

"Sorry. Sorry. I just needed to take care of a few things. I helped out in the kitchen and Siesta with her work. And I needed to evade the fan girls."

"What are you doing with that maid and when do you get fan girls? You know what? Don't answer it I don't want to know!"

"Louise are you jealous?" teased her Zero.

Louise's face reddened. "N-No! I am not! You speak nonsense." She turned her red face away while she puffed her cheeks.

"Your life signs say otherwise." Zero forced a little smile on his face.

"Stop analyzing other people your idiot!" she raised her wand and cast a fireball what ended with a big explosion as usual.

Guiche and Louise coughed because of the dust. Zero just clapped his hands. "Hmm. Not bad. It seems your aim is better than last time. But still not good enough to go into the next stage of your training."

"Shut up! Idiot! Hurry you still need to prepare a horse."

"Louise, Louise. I don't need a horse." Zero reached under his duster and pulled out his hover board. He dropped it on the ground, and it started to float above the ground. Then jumped into it.

Louise gritted her teeth. "Fine, then I don't care."

"I think it is time for us to depart." Remarked Zero

Guiche turned around because he heard a noise behind him. "What is this sound?" Then he started to hear more clean what was those sound.

"Zero-sama! Wait for me!" Zero sweat dropped. As they all heard as many Academy girl, students ran towards them. "How could they possibly find me? This world is weirder than YGGDRASIL sometimes."

Louise glared to Zero. "We departing now! We will speak about this later!" With that, Louise and Guiche hopped on their horse. And with a particular move urged their mount to move. Zero rides on his hover board as usual. He did not like mounts like horses even when he was just a player in YGGDRASIL. Because in his book. Horses were very impractical, and it was cooler if you ride on a floating board and making air tricks in the air while you ride in a floating board. Than charging into the battle with a horse.

They managed to shook off their pursuer in the forest after that Guiche spoke rather awkwardly.

"I have a request..."

"Ask away?" Zero responded with neutral tone while he rode on his board "I wish to bring my familiar along."

"I thought you only have an enormous pet hamster." teased him Zero

"Of course I do. All magicians have one. And he is not a hamster!"

Louise and Zero looked at each other, then looked at Guiche again.

They all stopped.

"Fine. Be it your way." Answered Zero "I don't care."

"Is he below us. I am correct." Zero said while pointing to the ground.

"But there's nothing in the field," Louise said.

Guiche unmounted his horse then responded by tapping his feet on the ground. Just then, a giant brown creature popped out of the ground.

"Verdandi! Oh, my cute Verdandi!"

Zero inspected the creature for a moment, "Is this a giant mole?"

"Yes! This is my cute little familiar Verdandi." Answered Guiche proudly

"You mean that your familiar is that big thing over there?"

Upon closer inspection, that giant brown creature was a mole with a size equivalent to a small bear.

"Yes. Ahh... My Verdandi, you look so cute from any angle I look. Have you eaten your meal of earthworms before you arrived here?"

The giant mole hemmed happily in response.

"Really? That's marvelous!" Guiche said while rubbing cheek to cheek with his familiar.

"Fine. As I said before, bring it along if you wish. But we will not wait for him if he is slacking off." Zero said in an uncaring tone.

"That's right Guiche. That creature moves underground right?"

"That's right. Even though it's slightly bigger than usual, Verdandi is still a mole all right."

"How are we going to bring it along? We're all riding on horses. Except for Zero who rode on that floating thing." Louise said in perturbed fashion.

"That's all right. Verdandi moves along quickly underground. Am I right, Verdandi?

The giant mole nodded in agreement.

"But we're going to Albion! We can't bring creatures that move underground!" Louise explained.

Guiche, upon hearing that, knelt onto the ground and replied, "I cannot bear the separation with my dear Verdandi... Oh! The pain..."

At the same time, the giant mole seemed to pick up some scent from its nose and drew nearer and nearer to Louise.

"What is this stupid mole trying to do!?" Louise pointed to the giant mole

"This is interesting." Zero said with an analyzing tone.

"Stop! Stop this right now!"

The giant mole knocked Louise off her feet and started sniffing all over her.

"Ah! Watch where you're sniffing! Stop it! Zero help!"

Louise being constantly poked by the giant mole's nose started to roll all over the ground. All that rolling disheveled her clothes and exposed her underwear. Louise was starting to get very annoyed...

Zero started to be immersed in watching Verdandi and Louise just as if he was admiring a beautiful picture...

"Ah... How beautiful is the scene of a giant mole teasing a damsel? I need to capture the image." Zero raised his forearm, and a started to type a few things on the holographic interface what appeared on it. His system begun to capture the scenery.

"I totally agree."

Guiche nodded. Then turned to Zero who is capturing the scene while walked around Louise. "What are you doing?"

Zero turned his face towards him. "I capture the scene as I said before. Everyone needs a little amusement in their life. Doesn't they?"

"Is that some magic artifact what are you using to makes you capable such thing?"

Zero shook his head. "Partly. But mostly technology. Only the memory module, the capturing module and the batteries fuelled by magic."

"Oh, I see. "Guiche nodded. Then an idea came to his mind. "How unusual item. Do you mind if I borrow it later?"

Before Zero could answer him, Louise yelling interrupted the conversation.

"Stop blabbering nonsense over there, you oafs! Come over and help me quickly! Ahh!

The giant mole saw the ring at Louise's right hand and started pecking it with its nose.

"You insolent mole! Don't use your nose to sniff at the ring the highness has bestowed to me! And you!" she glared at Zero. "Why did you not protected me from that beast?"

"You were not in danger." Replied Zero

"I see now. It's the ring. Verdandi loves jewels." Interjected Guiche

"Such an irritating pest!" Louise frowned

"Please don't call Verdandi an irritating pest. It's because of me that Verdandi searches for precious stones and jewels. For an Earth magician, there's nothing more helpful than this."

Just as Louise was preparing to blow her top, a sudden gust of wind came out of nowhere and blew away Verdandi.

"Who is that!?" Guiche shouted agitatedly.

A rather stout looking noble wearing a feathered cap appeared out of the faint daylight behind him. Zero looked into the direction of the newly arriving man. It was that noble what they saw when the Princess arrived.

"That...That person is..." Guiche gaped.

"What have you done to my Verdandi!?"

Guiche hastily took out his rose shaped wand, but the noble wearing the feathered cap was faster. Before Guiche could cast any spell, his wand was already out of his hand.

"I'm not your enemy. I'm under the orders of the highness to accompany you on your journey. The Princess is worried about just having you few going to Albion, but then again sending a whole troop of soldiers with you will be too conspicuous. Therefore, I was appointed to accompany you all on this journey." The Noble said while taking off his feather cap and bowing.

"I'm the captain of the Griffin Knights, Viscount Wardes."

The grumbling Guiche quickly shut his mouth. For most of the nobles, Guiche included, being able to join the Griffin Knights meant high prestige.

Wardes looked at Guiche and spoke apologetically. "Sorry for what I did to your familiar. I couldn't stand watching my fiancée being harassed."

Zero turned to Louise. "Well, well. But why I am even surprised."

"If you look into Louise in that way. She is kind of cute." Thought Zero

"Wardes-sama..." Louise spoke in a trembling voice after standing up.

"It's been such a long time. My Louise, my dear Louise."

"Louise act strangely. It is almost like she is under some mind-affecting effect. Let's see."

"[Silent Cast: Analyse Target]" Zero analyzed Louise but he found nothing unusual. He only found one odd thing. "Is Louise aroused? It is minimal. But according to the results of the chemical analysis, she is aroused." Zero smiled in himself "Kukuku… Dirty, Dirty Louise."

Wardes approached Louise and with a beaming smile on his face, carried Louise up.

"It's been such a long time," Louise said with her face turning red with embarrassment.

"Still as light as ever. Just like a feather."

"Viscount... please don't be like this... There are people over here..."

Wardes, who placed Louise back down and replaced his hat said, "Care to introduce your companions to me?"

"Erm... That is Guiche de Gramont and my familiar, Zero Rei," said Louise while pointing at them while she was introducing them to Wardes. Guiche who did not dare look at Wardes directly lowered his head. Zero raised his hand and greeted Wardes. "Yo!"

Wardes said with a rather surprised look on his face, "Are you Louise' familiar? This is the first time I've seen a human being a familiar."

"Thank you for taking such good care of my fiancée and to conjuring the Princess such spectacular show on the Familiar Exhibition. It was heart-warming. Both the music and the dancing elemental dragons."

"You're welcome. But I am not a familiar. She did summon me. But I am a mercenary. Not a servant. We even have a written contract." Zero reached in his duster and showed Wardes his contract.

"I see." Wardes nodded. "Still thank you."

"As I said before. No problem,"

Zero size up Wardes. He was indeed handsome in human standards. Even though Guiche could also be considered a bishonen himself, he was always making a fool out of himself and making irrational decisions. He could even rub his cheek with a giant mole.

However, for Wardes, not only he had the looks. His eyes were like that of an eagle – keen and sharp. That mustache he had further enhanced his suaveness. "What a brilliant beard." Thought Zero

Also, he had a muscular and well-built body. "It seems not all magic casters are fools in this world. Some of them thought about the possibility the enemy came closer to them."

Zero smiled and massaged his temple. Wardes approached him and patted his shoulder.

"What's wrong? Are you having doubts about this trip? There's nothing to be afraid of! Aren't you the one who caught Fouquet of the Crumbling Earth? With your courage alone, nothing is impossible."

Wardes who had finished saying that gave a broad smile. "Something is not right with this man. He is too kind." Thought Zero while looked at Wardes.

"Ah. It is nothing. I just surprised to see Louise act like this. Is it her usual behavior?"

Wardes looked at Louise while smiled. "Frankly I don't know. Usually, around me, she always acts like this."

Zero nodded. "I see." He looked to Louise who watched and listened to them carefully. But when she saw Zero looking her she quickly turned her head away and puffed her cheek.

Louise, not able to calm down due to Wardes' appearance, was feeling restless with anxiety. Zero looked at Louise then looked back to Warders.

"Then it is the time for us to go. If we don't hurry. We may do not arrive in time to the show."

Wardes smiled and nodded. "You are right."

Wardes gave a whistle, and a Griffin appeared out from the morning clouds. It was a mythical beast with the head of an eagle and a body of a lion. And on its back were wings that were made up of beautiful white feathers.

Wardes had climbed to the back of the Griffin with grace and then extended a hand to Louise.

"Come over, my Louise."

Louise lowered her head in hesitation and bashfulness, just like a girl who is in love. She looked at Zero.

"Go ahead Louise. Guiche and I will cover you from the ground."

Louise nodded weakly and accepted Wardes hand.

The situation was under Zero complete control. His early survey showed no significant threat. Just a few bandits ahead of them. Nothing serious to worry about. But he kept this information to himself.

Louise, who was still hesitating, was suddenly carried up the Griffin by Wardes.

With one hand on the reins and his wand in the other, Wardes shouted, "Well everybody, onwards!"

The Griffin moved forward. Following behind it were Guiche, looking full of admiration for Wardes; Zero just shook his head with a grin on his face. He reached into his duster and pulled out a headphone. He equipped it, and the headphone immediately started to play music from Zero's list.


Scene Change: Tristain Academy of Magic: Headmaster Osman's Office:

From the headmaster's office window, Henrietta was watching Zero Guiche and Louise departing for Albion. Closing her eyes, she starting praying...

"Founder Brimir, please grant them protection throughout their journey..."

Next to her was Headmaster Osman trimming his nasal hair.

"You aren't going to see them off, headmaster Osman?"

"No, as you know, I'm busy trimming my nasal hair, your highness."

Henrietta shook her head in disapproval.

Just then, someone knocked at the door.

"Enter," said the headmaster.

Mr. Colbert entered the room with an anxious look on his face.

"Bad news! Headmaster!"

"You say that quite often. What seems to be the problem now?"

"From the news that I've heard from the castle guards, Fouquet has escaped!"

"Hmm..." said Osman while stroking his beard.

"According to the guard who was on duty that time, some noble knocked him out using wind magic. The person used the opportunity that most of the human resources was diverted to protect the princess to help Fouquet escape! This means that someone inside is a spy! Isn't that bad news?"

Henrietta's face turned pale upon hearing the news.

Headmaster Osman made a gesture to Mr. Colbert asking him to leave.

"Okay. Okay. We'll hear further details from you later."

After Mr. Colbert had left, Henrietta placed her hands on the table and sighed deeply.

"We have a spy in our midst. This must be the doings of the Albion nobility!"

"Maybe it is... OUCH!" said the headmaster while trimming his nasal hair. Henrietta looked at him helplessly.

"How can you still be so relaxed? The future of Tristain is at stake!"

"The opponent has already made his move. All we can do now is to wait, isn't it?"

"Even so..."

"It's all right. If it's him, he'll be able to cope with any problems they'll face during their journey."

"The person you're speaking of is Guiche? Viscount Wardes or Zero?"

The headmaster nodded. "It is Zero."

"Your Highness, have you heard of the story of Founder Brimir before?"

"I have read most of the story..."

The headmaster smiled and replied, "Then, do you know about Gandálfr?"

"Isn't that Founder Brimir's strongest familiar? Don't tell me..."

At this point of time, Headmaster Osman felt that he had already divulged too much. Regarding the secret of "Gandálfr, cometh the legend" he always wanted to keep that to himself. Although he trusted Henrietta, he did not want the Royal family to know about it yet.

"Yes, he's as strong and capable as Gandálfr and furthermore, he comes from another world different from ours and using magic what is differs ours."

"Another world? I heard from him one and two things when we met. He said. The binding runes on his hand there because he allowed it himself. But he never spoke about he came from an another world." Said Henrietta

"That's right he came from the world from different from Halkeginia. Or I should say, from a place not on Halkeginia. I have always believed that this youth from another world will succeed. That's also the reason that I'm so carefree even during these perilous times."

"Another world different from Halkeginia exists..."

Henrietta gazed far away. The sensation of the youth's lip still lingered on Henrietta's lips. Touching her lips with her fingertips, she closed her eyes, smiled and said,

"Let me pray then, for the breeze that comes from another world."


Scene Change. Port City La Rochelle:

It would take two days to reach Port City La Rochelle by horse from Tristain. Of course, it would be easier if Zero simply used his [Mirror of Remote View] then use [Gate] to instantly teleport here but as the saying goes. Never reveal every card in your hand.

The second reason why Zero is not used his abilities to get here. Because he was quietly enjoyed the view along with their journey to the city.

The port city was situated on a deep and narrow gorge, and because of this, it had a small population of three hundred. As La Rochelle was the gateway to Albion, the number of travelers was ten times more than the residents.

Boulders could be seen on both sides of the narrow mountain pathway. People had carved holes in the blocks, turning them into taverns and shops. Although the buildings looked ordinary, upon closer inspection one could realize that all of them were carved out of a single rock, a feat done by Square ranked earth mages.

On the narrow street, it appeared to be dark even though it was afternoon due to the Gorges blocking the sunlight. If one made a turn on the road, they could see an even narrower street leading to a bar.

On the signboard resembling a keg of wine, the shop's name was written – "Golden Wine Barrel Bar." However, nothing in the store resembled its name; the shop was dilapidated like an abandoned house. Piles of ruined chairs could be seen piling next to the door.

Most of the patrons were gangsters and mercenaries. When drunk, they would often fight over the smallest of things like staring incidents or minor squabbles.

Whenever they'd fight, they would fight with their weapons. Therefore, it was common to see people dead or severely injured inside the bar. The shopkeeper, not wanting to see any more injuries and deaths, put up a notice inside the shop.

"Please use the chairs when you fight in here."

From the notice, the customers could feel the shopkeeper's helplessness. So they started to use the chairs instead of their weapons when fighting each other. Even though there were still injuries, no one was killed anymore. From then on, chairs that were destroyed during fights got piled next to the door.

Today, the "Golden Wine Barrel Bar" was filled with patrons as usual. Almost all the patrons were mercenaries returning from Albion which was in internal strife.

"The king of Albion is finished!"

"Don't that means that they're going to start a republic soon?"

"If so, let us offer a toast to the republic!"

The people offering toasts to themselves were formerly mercenaries hired by the royalist to fight alongside with them. However, faced with the imminent defeat of their clients, they all decided to retreat here. This was not considered to be a dishonorable act. As mercenaries, they valued their lives more than their beliefs, and so they felt that they were not obliged to fight to their death for their clients.

As they were drinking, the bar's door opened, and a rather tall lady entered the bar. The hood the woman wore covered most of her face except for the lower part. However, from just the bottom part of her face one could already be sure about her beauty. As it was rare for such an attractive lady to come to such a place alone, all eyes on the bar were already on her.

The woman, unfazed by all the eyes staring at her, ordered some wine and food and sat on a table in the corner of the bar. After the food was served, she promptly paid up.

"That... That's a lot of money. Is it all right?"

"That includes lodging. Do you have any empty rooms?"

An elegant voice replied. The shopkeeper nodded his head and left her table. Several of the male patrons looked at each other and approached her table.

"Excuse me miss; it's dangerous for you to be here alone."

"That's right! There are lots of dangerous characters around. Don't worry, though; we'll be here to protect you."

With a wicked smile on his face, one of them lifted up the lady's hood. Whistles and catcalls could be heard once the hood was removed. The lady was quite a beauty, with her beautiful eyes and elegant nose.

This lovely lady was none other than Fouquet of the crumbling earth.

"She's top notch! Look at her skin! It's as white as ivory!"

Another patron attempted to lift up her chin with his arm, but his hand was pushed away by Fouquet. Fouquet gave a faint smile. Another male boss immediately stood up, took out his dagger and placed it on Fouquet's face.

"Aren't chairs supposed to be used instead of weapons at this joint?"

"This is only to frighten you. Can't chairs intimidate anybody right? Don't act so innocent anymore, aren't you here to look for a company? We'll keep you company then."

Even with the dagger pointed at her face, Fouquet showed no fear. With a slight movement, she reached for a wand.

In an instant, she chanted her incantations. With that, the dagger that the man held turned into the earth and settled onto the table.

"She's.. she's a noble!"

The men immediately backed away from her. As Fouquet was not wearing a cloak, none of them knew that she was a magician.

"Even though I'm a magician, I'm not a noble," Fouquet said nonchalantly.

"Most of you are mercenaries right?"

The male patrons looked at each other. If she were not a noble, their lives would not be endangered. If they had done that to a noble, they would be killed without any qualms.

"Yes... And you are...?" a veteran of the group replied.

"It doesn't matter. In short, I'm here to hire all of you."

"All of us?"

The mercenaries looked at Fouquet with a puzzled look on their face.

"What's the expression? Is it really that weird for me to employ mercenaries?"

"No. That's not what I meant. You have gold, don't you?"

Fouquet placed a bag full of gold onto the table. After inspecting the contents of the bag, the veteran said, "Wow... Isn't this écu gold?"

The bar's door opened again. This time, a man wearing a white mask had entered the bar. He was the same man who had helped Fouquet escape from prison.

"Well, aren't you early."

Fouquet was seeing that man, gave a low "Hmm" as a reply. The mercenaries, seeing that man's peculiar dress, were all quite surprised. "They have started on their journey," the masked man said.

"I have done what you had told me to and hired all these people."

The man in the white mask gave a once over at the mercenaries that Fouquet had hired.

"All of you were formerly employed by the Albion royalists. Am I right?"

"That was until last month," one of the mercenaries replied with glee.

"But the soon to be defeated royalists aren't our employees anymore."

The mercenaries laughed in unison. The man in the white mask smiled as well.

"I'll fulfill all your monetary desires. However, I'm not like the soon to be defeated royalists, if anyone dares to run away from the battle, I'll kill him myself."


Scene Change: Place between the Port City and the Academy:

Since departing from the magical academy, Wardes' Griffin had been endlessly moving towards their destination. Even though Guiche had already changed his mount twice, Wardes' Griffin, just like its master, appeared to be tireless. Zero just hovered towards his destination on his hover board.

"Hold on, isn't the pace too fast for us?" Louise, who was on Wardes' Griffin, asked. Over the duration of the journey, Louise spoke in a more informal manner to Wardes than when they were reunited. But that was also partly due to the Viscount's request.

"Guiche and Zero are already on the brink of exhaustion."

"I am fine. We can go further if you want." Interjected Zero from the ground.

Wardes turned back and looked at Guiche and Zero. Just like Louise had said, Guiche has held his reins because of the fear he will falling. But Zero just stood on his hovering board steadily.

"But I had originally planned to journey to port city La Rochelle without stopping..."

"That would be difficult; it would take two days to reach by horse,"

"If that's the case, why don't we just leave Guiche and Zero behind? Zero can take care of Guiche while we complete the mission. This is a dangerous region for a noble to stay alone."

"We can't do that!"

"Why?"

"Aren't we in this together? Furthermore, a magician should not abandon her familiar..." Louise murmured under her nose.

"You seem protective of them both. Which one is your sweetheart?"

Louise's face immediately turned red and replied, "What... What sweetheart!?"

"That sets my heart at ease. If my fiancée tells me that she already has a sweetheart, I will die of a broken heart," replied Wardes with a smile.

"But that was only something that our parents had agreed on."

"Then, do you dislike me, my small and dainty Louise?"

"Please, I'm not young anymore," Louise replied, pouting.

"But in my eyes, you're forever that small and dainty Louise."

Louise remembered that dream that she'd had a few days back, where she was back in the courtyard of her home, La Vallière until Wardes did not transform into Zero. That moment ruined that dream.

The secret boat on the forgotten lake...

Whenever she was throwing a tantrum there, Wardes would always be there to pacify her.

The marriage that was decided by her parents.

The betrothal that was agreed since youth. The one that she would be married to. Her fiancée.

At that time, she still did not fully understand what was going on. She only knew that, so long as she was with the man she had admired, she would be happy.

But now, she finally understood everything. She would be married to Wardes.

"I don't dislike you," Louise replied with a tinge of embarrassment.

"That's wonderful, in other words, you like me?"

Wardes gently hugged Louise's shoulders.

"I have never forgotten about you even after all this time. Do you still remember? After my father's death during the lancer campaign?"

Louise nodded her head.

Wardes began to reminisce and narrated to Louise about the past.

"My mother had passed away earlier; I inherited my father's estate and title. Wanting to make a name for myself, I went to the capital. Fortunately, the highness had a profound impression on my father who had perished in the battlefield; I was incorporated into the Griffin Knights. I had entered the Griffin Knights as a trainee; training was tough then.

"From then on, you seldom went back to your estate again," replied Louise while closing her eyes. She too seemed to be immersed in her memories.

"My house and estate were cared for by my butler, Galgann, while I put all my effort serving the nation. After so long, I finally made a name for myself, accomplishing what I had decided upon leaving my homeland."

"What was it that you decided upon?"

"To ask your hand for marriage once I have made a name for myself."

"You're kidding right, Viscount? You're so popular among the girls; you have no need to honor your promise to such an insignificant me."

About Wardes' betrothal. Louise had apparently forgotten it until she had that dream a few days back. The bridal pact to Wardes was all but a fleeting dream. In her opinion, it was only an agreement made on a whim.

After Wardes had left his estate ten years ago, Louise had never seen him again. Wardes had already become part of her distant memory. Distant memories had suddenly become a reality.

"This journey is a good chance for us to regain those feelings we had when you were young," Wardes said with a gentle and calm tone.

Louise thought to herself, "Do I still love Wardes?"

Even though she did not dislike him and she did admire him when she was young, that was all in the past.

Suddenly faced with a fiancée and probably marriage, she did not know what to do. Furthermore, they had been apart for so many years; she did not know whether she still had any feelings for him.

Louise turned her head and looked behind.

She saw Zero speaking with Guiche. But she knows him enough in this little time what they were together as master, servant. He is always watching over her from the corner of his eye even if she sometimes does not recognize it. It was true He often teased her but always protecting her when she needed it.

Louise was both proud and mad. The first because she managed to summon such powerful familiar as Zero. And the second because she can't control her familiar because he was too strong for her. She can't even discipline him because he was so damn "thought" as he said.

What Louise did not understand why Zero is staying beside her. With his power, magic, and abilities he could find a better "employer" as he often called Louise. Anytime he wants. He could even marry a wealthy noble daughter in Germania and live his life without any problem.

Maybe the reason why he remained beside Louise was gratitude towards her? Respect, love or he just pitied her? She did not know, and she was too afraid to ask him.

Louise pouted her lips. As soon as she thought of these things, she became anxious, and her heart pounded furiously.

"I have already been on this horse for nearly a whole day, doesn't he get tired? Are those griffin knights' monsters? And you who stood on that floating desk all the way? You don't even seem tired at all. Anyway, what is fuelling to your floating board? Is it wind stones? Is it?" Guiche, who was lifelessly slouching on the horse, asked.

"Answering your first question. Everyone who has some physical conditioning can do that. And I have plenty of it. Answering for your second question. Who knows? Where is the fun if I tell you?" Zero replied blandly.

He felt if it is something not right with that Wardes guy. Each time Wardes touched Louise, he felt some ill intentions flow from Wardes towards Louise.

Each time Zero thought of that, he became more and more suspicious towards Wardes.

Guiche, looking at Zero who inspected Wardes from afar. "Heh heh... Don't tell me you're jealous?" Guiche said with a snicker.

"Why do you ask?" turned Zero his head towards him.

"I guessed it correctly, didn't I?" Guiche laughed even harder.

"Three times." Replied Zero sarcastically.

"Mwahaha... Did you carry a love for your master that would never flower? To tell you honestly, love between people of different status will only result in tragedy. Even if you can use magic, you are not a noble."

"Maybe yes. Perhaps, no. Who knows." Replied Zero

Guiche suddenly looked to the front and exclaimed, "Look! They're kissing!" Guiche tried to taunt Zero.

"Good for them," replied Zero blandly

Zero did not need to look towards Louise and Wardes to know they are not doing such thing, It was a feeble try from Guiche to taunt him. The best what he could do is not to care what the blonde fop said.

"You don't care about what they are doing?"

"Why should I? Louise is an almost adult woman. She can make her own decisions. She is my employer. I don't have the right to choose instead of her. The only time when I can do such thing if she is under mind control."

"What do you mean mind control?" inquired Guiche.

"Magical or other effects what could affect her decision-making ability. It is on our contract. Paragraph 52 C. "If the contractor falls under mind controlling or similar effects what may influence his/her/it clear decision-making ability. The contracted task to try to remove this effect from his/her/it employer. If every removal attempts fail or endangers the contractor physical or mental health. The hired person tasks are to find a way of the removal or decide instead of the employer."

"You write that contract thoughtfully." Said Guiche.

"Of course, after all. I am a professional."

"Hey! If you guys are not stop gibbering in the background, I'll have to leave you both behind!" Wardes shouted.

Guiche quickly got back on the horse. Meanwhile, Zero looked to Louise who was looking at him; they stared at each other for a moment. Then Louise turned her head away with a red face.

They traveled at full speed. They only stopped to let Guiche change his horse into a fresh one; they reached the outskirts of La Rochelle by nightfall.

Zero looked around in astonishment. "I read about Albion one of the books in the library. Albion is a floating island. I can't wait to see it in live."

Traveling under the moonlight, Zero and the group finally saw a narrow mountain pathway. Buildings which were carved from boulders could be seen on both sides of the trail.

Suddenly, from the top of the cliff, torches were thrown at their horses. The burning flames illuminated the ravine they were about to cross.

"What's... What's happening !?" Guiche cried.

His horse, frightened by the burning torches, threw Guiche off his backs.

As they fell, a hail of arrows showered upon him. Zero was before him under less than a moment. He waved his hand, and all of the arrows flew away. Like a powerful gust of air cached them.

"It's an ambush!" Guiche shouted.

Zero-equipped Derflinger under a moment.

"Whoa!" Guiche yelped.

Just as Guiche thought he was about to meet his doom, a strong gust of wind blew towards him, changing into a small hurricane and deflected the second wave of arrows.

Wardes raised his wand.

"Are you guys all right?" Wardes shouted.

"I'm all right..." replied Guiche.

"Everything is under control. Don't worry Wardes." Said Zero with a calm tone. Wardes nodded.

The fact why Zero is not annihilated every bandit under a moment because he was curious about Wardes capabilities against low-level bandits like these. He could take care of everyone in the scenery under a moment. But why he would be the only one who has fun. His contract with Louise only said. He has to protect her if she is in danger. She was not at risk. So he doesn't have to do anything with the situation.

"Damn partner I need some action. I am bored!" said Derf in his hand.

"Don't worry Derf. We will have some fun later. Just be patient."

"If you say, partner." Zero put Derf back to his scabbard.

"It was most likely thieves or bandits," Wardes said.

Louise, suddenly realizing something exclaimed, "Could it be the nobles from Albion?"

"Nobles would not use arrows."

Just then, the sound of flapping wings could be heard. It was a sound that they were quite familiar with...

Screams could be heard from the cliffs.

Arrows could be seen shooting towards the night sky. However, all the arrows were carried away by wind magic.

After that, a small hurricane created by magic blew away all the archers.

"Hmm... Aren't those wind incantations?" Wardes mumbled to himself.

Zero smiled inwardly. "It seems I felt it right. They followed us all along."

The archers, attempting to ambush them, rolled down the cliffs after being blown away by the magical tornado. They landed hard onto the ground, giving out moans of pain.

With the moon as the background, a familiar sight appeared. "It's Sylphid!" Louise shouted confoundedly.

It was Tabitha's wind dragon. After it had landed, a red-haired girl jumped down from the dragon and flicked her hair.

"Sorry to keep you waiting."

Louise too jumped down from Wardes' Griffin and replied, "What do you mean sorry to keep you waiting!? Why are you here in the first place?"

"Not to help you in any case. When I saw you leaving the academy on the horse in the morning, I quickly woke up Tabitha and followed you all the way here."

Kirche pointed at Tabitha, from the looks of it she was woken up from her sleep; she was still wearing her pajamas. But she didn't seem to mind at all and was still reading a book.

"Zerbst! Listen to me; we're on a secret mission given to us by her highness!"

"Secret mission? You should have said so earlier! How would I know if you did not tell me about it? Anyways, be thankful to me, for I have apprehended the people who wanted to ambush you!"

Kirche said this while pointing to the individual who was lying on the ground. Those ambushers were unable to move due to their injuries and hurled abuses towards Louise and the group. Guiche approached them and began interrogating them.

Louise, crossing her arms, gave a vicious stare at Kirche.

"Don't be mistaken! I'm not here to assist you. Am I right?"

Kirche posed suggestively and then leaned on Wardes, who was on the Griffin and said, "Your beard makes you very manly. Do you know what passion looks like?"

Wardes glanced at Kirche and proceeded to push her away using his left hand.

"Huh?"

"Thank you for coming to our aid, but please do not get so close to me ever again."

"But why? I just told you that I liked you!"

That was the first time that Kirche received such cold treatment from a male beside Zero. But Zero never said he don't want her, so Kirche continued her advancement towards him. Usually, any male would be mesmerized after some sweet-talking from her. But Wardes was not in the least interested. Kirche gazed at Wardes with her mouth wide open.

"I'm sorry. But I cannot let my fiancée misunderstand." Wardes said while looking at Louise; her face turned red from embarrassment in an instant.

"What? She's your fiancée!?"

Wardes nodded in response. Kirche took a closer look at Wardes. She did not realize it before, but Wardes' eyes showed no emotion at all. Just like ice.

She then looked at Zero. Zero still stood in his place watched the little group with a bored expression while he started to eat an energy bar what he pulled out from his duster a moment ago.

"Eh? Is he looking like that because I made advances on Louise's fiancée?"

As she thought about that Zero uncaring expression. He suddenly looked cuter. Watching the eating Zero, she ran towards him and hugged him immediately.

"Actually. I'm here because I'm worried for my beloved!"

Zero still listened his music's through his headphone. He could not care less about Kirche move towards Wardes.

Kirche hugged Zero. Pushing his arm between her cleavage. Zero let it because he was not amused any more and wanted to see Louise reaction once more.

"Stop hugging my familiar Zerbst!" Frowned Louise.

"Cute! So cute! Are you jealous?" she turned to Louise

"I'm not..." said Louise while puffed her cheek cutely.

Then Kirche turned back to Zero "I'm so sorry for neglecting you. You must be angry, right?" Kirche said while hugging Zero more tightly.

"Please forgive me! I may have looked at other men, but in the end, the only one that I love is you!"

Louise bit her lips, wanting to tell once more Kirche to get off. She could not tolerate Kirche for seducing her familiar.

Just then, Wardes gently placed his hands on Louise's shoulder. Wardes looked at Louise lovingly and gave her a smile.

"Viscount..."

Guiche, who was interrogating the ambushers, had just returned.

"Viscount, those ambushers admitted that they were robbers."

"Hmm. If they're just robbers, let them go."

Wardes effortlessly mounted back to the top of his Griffin, carrying Louise up with him. He then announced to everyone, "We'll spend the night at La Rochelle, tomorrow we will take the first ship to Albion at the break of dawn."

Kirche wanted to stand behind Zero on his hover board. But it was not long enough for two people. So instead of Zero, she shared Sylphid with Tabitha. Tabitha was still reading her book on her wind dragon.

In front of them, sandwiched between two cliffs, was the port city La Rochelle, dazzling with lights.


Scene Change: Lar Rochelle:

Tired from riding all day, they had decided to rest at the fanciest hotel in the city of La Rochelle, the Goddess's Temple. It was a very fancy place even for a noble. The dining tables and floor were both made from the same marble, and the floor was so clean that one could see their face on it.

Wardes and Louise came back from the pier.

When Wardes sat down, he said hesitantly, "The ship for Albion leaves the day after tomorrow."

"This mission is very urgent..." Louise pointed.

Zero placed his crossed legs on the table and leaned backward to relax a little. He did not need it. But it was good feeling to relax sometimes a little.

"I have never been to Albion, so I do not know why there is no ship tomorrow."

Wardes looked at Kirche and answered to her, "Are the moons overlapping tomorrow? If so, then Albion should be closest to La Rochelle."

Albion was an always moving floating island. Zero knew this from the books what he read in the academy library. You could say. He was curious about seeing it in life. He sees such things often in YGGDRASIL. But that was just a game. Seeing something like this life would be spectacular.

Wardes put the keys on the table, "Let's rest, for now, take the keys. Tabitha and Kirche take one room, Guiche and Zero take another."

Guiche stared Zero. Zero only leaned backward while threw a weak salute to Wardes. "Ok. Boss."

Wardes nodded and continued, "Louise and I will be sharing a room."

Louise was continuously monitored by Zero. So he did not felt the necessarily to protest against it.

"It is the apparent arrangement as Louise and I are engaged."

Louise looked at Wardes in shock and said, "B-but we can't! We're not even married yet!"

"This Wardes guy is weird. It is true they are engaged. But Louise is still too young for sleep with him." Thought Zero and opened his uncovered eye for a moment.

But Wardes shook his head and told Louise, "There is something important I have to tell you."

Wardes and Louise stayed in the best room in the hotel. They wondered who designed the room. There was an enormous four-poster bed with delicate lace hanging from the top. Wardes sat down at the table, opened a bottle of wine and poured himself a cup. He chugged it down and said, "Why don't you sit down and have a cup as well, Louise?"

Louise sat down as well. He poured one for Louise and refilled his own. He then raised his cup and said, "Cheers!" Louise however, held hers in her hands and bowed down her head.

Wardes asked, "Did you keep the princess's letter safe?"

Louise patted her pocket and to make sure it was still there,

"I wonder why it is so important. What is in this letter? Does the prince already have a letter ready? I think I figured out a small part of it. Being Henrietta's childhood friend, I know how she writes her letters."

Wardes looked at Louise with wonder. Then Louise nodded and said, "The message is still safe. Are you worried that we might not be able to get the letter from the prince of Albion?"

"Yes, I am anxious," Wardes answered.

Louise arched her beautiful eyebrows and said, "Don't worry; it will be all right because I'll always be with you."

"That's right; if you're here, there will be no problems. It was always that way."

Wardes sounded very distant when he said that.

"Do you still remember the promise of the day when we were at the lake?" Louise asked.

He nodded his head, "In the little boat that was floating in the middle of the lake? You would always go there after being scolded by your parents. You were like an abandoned kitten."

"Really? You remember the weirdest things."

Wardes replied happily, "Of course I have to remember those things. You were always compared to your sisters regarding magical power."

Louise lowered her head embarrassed, and Wardes said, "But I think that's wrong. You are worthless and a failure, but..."

"You are so mean!" Louise retorted.

"You have an incredible power that nobody else has. I know this because I am a different kind of magician." Wardes finished ignoring what Louise said.

"That's impossible!"

Wardes replied, "But it is possible. For example, whenever you use your magic..."

Louise's face turned red and said, "Zero said the same for me after the fight with Fouquet."

"He said this to you? Then he understands your importance as I am." Said Wardes in a calm tone.

"Did you inspected the runes in his hand. They belong to Brimir Legendary Familiar."

"Legendary?"

"Yes, those runes belong to the legendary familiar Gandálfr. The familiar that once belonged to Founder Brimir." Wardes' eyes shone with admiration.

Louise asked, "Gandálfr?"

"Not just anyone can control Gandálfr. You have the magic to control him."

"That's hard to believe. He even showed me he could remove the runes whenever he likes. The Founder Personal Familiar binding runes should be strong enough to hold him back. Or not?" Louise tilted her head and thought that Wardes was joking around.

Louise shook her head, thinking Wardes was just kidding. It is true that Zero's speed, strength, magic and weapon handling skills were seemed inhuman for her and everyone else. But to say he is the legendary familiar is unbelievable. If it is really like that, then something must be wrong. I am after all

"Louise the Zero."

"I am always a failure; there is no way I could have the power Wardes and Zero mentioned. They just want to comfort me because they pity me." Louise expression saddened when she thought about this

"You could become a great mage. Yes, like Founder Brimir, and leave your name in history as a great mage. I believe so."

Wardes gazed at Louise warmly.

"After this mission, marry me, Louise!"

"Ah…"

The sudden marriage proposal left Louise speechless.

"I am not satisfied to be just a mage captain of the Magic Knights... I want to become a noble that will move the whole of Halkeginia someday."

"B-but..."

"But what?"

"I... I am still... still."

"You are not a child anymore; you are 16 years old. You have reached the age when you can decide things. Your father agreed too. So..."

Wardes abruptly stopped here. Then he looked up and brought his face close to Louise.

"It is true, I never came to look for you, and I have to apologize. Marriage is not something to be spoken of quickly, this I also know. But Louise, to me you are the most important of all."

" Wardes…"

Louise thought about it. Why did Zero's bored face keep popping in her mind? After marrying Wardes, will she have to leave Zero as her familiar?

"I don't understand why, but I constantly feel this is wrong. If it were a crow or owl familiar, it wouldn't be so troublesome. I know if I leave him he can easily take care of himself. But it just feels wrong. It is like I lost a piece from myself. Damn' that idiot! Why do I feel like this? Is it his bad influence or it is something else?"

"I don't understand why but this is incredibly annoying."

Louise thought, just like a small girl she wanted to have Zero all to herself.

"Although Zero is an idiot and often makes me mad, I don't want him to become someone else's property. He is mine! He could leave me anytime. Still, he is staying with me. I don't know why. I only hope because he is caring me."

Louise raised her head.

"Still… Still…"

"Still?"

"That... that I am not a mage of your caliber yet, I still need to study…"

Louise lowered her head, kept it quiet and murmured.

"Wardes, when I was young, that is what I always thought, someday, I must make everyone recognize me, become a great mage, and make my mother and father proud."

Louise raised her head, staring at the older man.

"I, I still cannot reach that yet." Said honestly Louise while she lowered her gaze. "That's right. With Zero's help I will learn control my magic in no time!" the determination what was in Louise's heart returned.

"Is it because someone already stole your heart?" Louise shook back to the reality and looked Wardes with wide eyes.

"It is nothing like that; there's no chance for that to happen!" Louise denied in a panic.

"It's not important, I understand, I understand. For now, I won't ask for an answer. But, after this journey is over, I will certainly lighten your heart."

Louise nodded in reply.

"In that case, let's go to bed, you are already tired right?"

Suddenly, Wardes came close to Louise, wanting to kiss her.

Instantly, Louise's body stiffened. Then she pushed Wardes away.

"Louise?"

"I'm sorry... But, things like...that..."

Louise pridefully stared at Wardes. He smiled bitterly and shook his head.

"I am not in a hurry."

Louise lowered her head again.

"Why, even though Wardes is so gentle, handsome and strong, even though I longed for him for such a long time... I am not even happy when I am being proposed to."

Someone else had already caught her heart. But Louise's mind refused to think about the one that caught it.

On the other room, Zero laid on his bed and read one of the books what he borrowed from the academy library. Guiche was not in the chamber. He was in the bar area of the hotel and stalked the woman staff of the parlor.

Derflinger laid beside him. Suddenly Derflinger said.

"Are you not curious about what that two is doing?"

"Not really." Answered Zero. "I respect their private sphere." Of course, this was a lie. Zero monitored Louise every waking moment though his Sensor abilities. She was his contractor. He contracted to be her bodyguard. So he needed to know if she was in danger and when the risk appears he simply teleport to Louise and eliminate that threat.

"You are a weird one partner. A lot of men would be crazy because of their crush is with someone else. But you. You are just laying here. Doing nothing. Are you even a man?"

Zero raised his left gloved hand into the air and started to inspect it. "Who knows. Maybe I lost it with many more thing. Traded for something else."

"I-I am sorry, partner. I did not know…" said Derf in a sad tone.

"You said nothing wrong Derf. I only ask you remember one thing."

"I am all ears partner."

"Victory costs. Every time you sacrifice a little more and when you sacrificed everything when nothing more remained. You had to sacrifice something else. Something what in normal circumstances cannot be traded or sacrificed."

"What is it, partner?"

"You will find out if times comes. Don't worry about it. You know there is a saying where I came from. Do you want to hear it?"

"Of course partner! I am all ears."

"If life gives you a lemon make lemonade."

"Very insightful quote."

"But know what? Fuck that if life gives you lemons. Punch life in its stomach then makes it eat its lemon until it gives you what you want. If it still not give you what you want. You simply beat it further once it has to give up. Or not?"

Derf was silent for a moment. "You are a weird one partner."

"I am Derf. I am."

"One last question. Why don't you just conquer Halkeginian instead of live work after work? You could be the king of the world if you want. With your powers, no one could stop you and as you treat the commoners. After a while, all of them undoubtedly come under your banner. Tell me why do you live like this?"

Zero forced a smile on his face. "Me as a king? That's an interesting idea. But I will pass it. Thank you. Ruling over the world is simply boring. I know how every ruler live. They are the prisoners of their country. It is not like everyone's imagines it."

"They are in a constant battle between their inner self. Some of them even broke under the weight of responsibility If they want to be good rulers. They had to make hard decisions. If they make a decision, someone's will surely hate them because of it. If not. Something worse will happen and of course, the politics."

"Why do you say that, partner?"

"Because. I hate politics. I can't imagine myself sitting all day and signing important documents. Going into royal balls and many more of those things. I hate these fancy things and boot lickers. And as I said before I am a mere mercenary adventurer. I would never have a little alone time if I were a ruler."

Derf just silently listened to his partner.

"I never wanted to rule over anything. Ever. My adventurer existence was alway enough for me. I don't need subordinates or any other things to feel complete. You could say that. I am like a child who sometimes threw a rock into the lake. Bedazzling the water surface with a rock causing impact on the world without I need to chose side. It was a satisfying answer you Derf?" Zero turned his head towards Derf who lied beside him on his bed.

"It was, partner. It was," answered Derf

Then he remained silent. "I never meet someone's like you Zero. You are the most interesting person in my extended life. I wonder how would the history change if you were here instead of Brimir 6000 years ago." thought Derf.

Zero stood up from his bed. Attached Derf into his belt around his waist what was under his black duster. "Time to take a walk. Let's explore our surrounding. It would be not nice if something would avoid our attention huh Derf?"

"As you say, partner."

"Who knows maybe we can even find one or two interesting things around the town."

With that, he disappeared from the room.


Scene Change: Lar Rochelle: Second Day: Morning

In the Second day, Guiche woke up to someone knocking on his door. Guiche slowly climbed out from his bed and opened the door. When he opened the door, he saw Wardes. At that moment he straightened himself.

"Oh. Sir Wardes! Good Morning! What do I owe you for this early visit?"

Wardes with his usual hat looked down at Guiche, who was about a head and a half shorter than the knight.

"Good morning, Guiche."

"Do you know where I can find your roommate?"

"What could Sir Wards want with Zero?" frowned Guiche in his head.

Guiche looked back to Zero's bed. But it was empty. Then looked back to Wardes. "Sorry. He was not here after I arrived back from the bar last night. Maybe he is in the courtyard."

Wardes only smiled faintly.

"Thank you." With that Wardes left the dumbfounded Guiche

"AH."

After approximately an hour searching. Wardes found Zero while he read a book under a tree. Wardes approached him. "Good morning Wardes. What do I owe the pleasure?" Zero said while he flips a page on his book.

"Good morning. I see you spend your day of rest with a useful thing."

"We could say that." Replied Zero

Wardes hid his sudden discomfort under a warm smile.

"Do you allow me to ask you a few question?"

"Ask away." Said Zero without interest.

"Are you the Gandálfr of the legend?" inquired Wardes.

"Hmm. Maybe yes. Maybe no. Who knows." Zero removed his white gloves from his hand where the runes inscribed. "But according to these runes. Yes." He showed Wardes the runes. Wardes inspected it for a moment. Then nodded. Then Zero put back his glove in his hand.

Wardes was trying to remove something, and bent his head and said, "After that case with Fouquet and the Familiar Show, I hold a keen interest in you. I asked Louise earlier; I heard you are from another world, and now I know you are the legendary Gandálfr."

"If you say."

"I find history and warfare fascinating. When Fouquet was captured, I became very interested in you. Then I did some research in the Imperial Library. The result of that research is my discovery that you are the legendary familiar Gandálfr."

"Oh, is that so. You are a scholar. I like people who not only boast and speak. But prove their right."

Wardes nodded in agreement then continued. "You are right those people are annoying. But if you allow me I want to know how strong is the person who captured Fouquet; can you show it to me?"

"Show you?"

Wardes pulled out his wand from his belt, "Let me put it this way."

"A duel?" asked Zero.

"Exactly." Nodded Wardes.

Zero put his book back his duster. Stood up and stretched his limbs. "I don't mind it. I need a good morning practice anyway."

Wardes and Zero smiled together.

"Show me what are you capable of. You power level is vastly lower than mine. But a lot higher than other ordinary people. "Zero thought.

"Where do you want to duel?" asked Zero blandly

"This hotel used to be a castle designed for repelling Albion invasions; there is a parade ground in the center of it."

The two then left for the parade ground for nobles together. The old practice field was now a place for debris and refuse with empty beer barrels and crates scattered all over the place. It was hard to believe that a long time before that royal flags with staffs cut from the stone was decorating this wasteland.

"Before maybe you don't know, under the reign of Philip III, this often used to be a place to host duels between nobility."

"Good to know."

Zero and Wardes stood before each other with a few places. Wardes equipped his Wand-sword. But Zero hands were still in his duster cloak pockets.

"In a time long ago, the king still had the power to duel, Nobles from the king's time… a time when Nobles were noble. Who risked life for fame and honor, we nobles fought with magic. But it is usually fought over annoying issues, right as if the two were fighting for a lover."

"What does he mean by lovers?" thought Zero. "Any rules?" asked Zero.

"Ah. Yes. There are certain rules regarding dueling; we don't have a witness here."

"Do you chose any witness yet?" asked Zero

"Yes, she can be here at any moment," Wardes replied with a smug smile on his face, and Louise appeared from nearby. She was dumbfounded as she saw the two.

"Wardes, you called me over, and I came, what are you two preparing to do?"

"I want to test his abilities a little."

"Let's stop this nonsense. Now is not the time for this kind of stupidities."

"Sir Wardes is the one who wanted to duel. The least I can do is to accept it."

Louise stared at her familiar, "Stop now; that is an order."

"The game is on Louise. Now is not the time to withdraw."

Wardes nodded in agreement "Since the witness is here, let us begin."

Wardes pulled out his wand from his belt again, entered a combat stance, with his wand pointing at Zero.

Zero turned to Wardes his hand was still in his pockets.

"You don't use weapons?" asked Wardes.

Zero shook his head and pulled out his left hand from his pocket. "I use this." He showed Wardes one of his index finger "The most reliable weapon since the dawn of mankind."

Wardes responded with a light laughter, "Very well. Let it be your way."

"You idiot! He will kill you! It does not matter you can deflect that golem punches he can do the same!" yelled Louise.

Zero turned his face to Louise. "Louise. Do you trust me?"

"Y-Yes…" she said timidly.

"Don't worry Louise. I will not hurt your familiar. I promise." Interjected Wardes. In response, Louise nodded shyly.

"Let's the game begin. You can use magic if you wish," said Zero.

Insert Music under the fight: Let It Die - Come & Get It

Wardes leaped forward with a quick slash. Zero did not move only blocked the mage knight attack with his index finger. The finger and the Wand-sword collision caused a rang like sound.

One would have expected Wardes to retreat backward, but no one expected the hurricane-like wind that was created when the two clashed, and Wardes' increased speed as he charged toward Zero. Zero was unfazed by the wild winds stood in his place solidly. Wardes eyes widened.

"How could he block my sword strikes only with his finger? I need to get more serious about him."

Wardes used his magic to send cutting wins towards Zero. Zero just sidestepped to avoid them. He could easily nullify them whit his passive high-level nullification or one of his abilities. But he does not trust Wardes. He doesn't want to reveal all of his cards.

"A Magic Knight isn't someone who only chants magic," Wardes answered with a tip of his hat as he sent an another combo of vicious attack towards Zero with his sword and wind magic.

Wardes leaped forward like a bullet and released a brand new assault. But Zero easily blocked or dodged the wind mage attack only with his index finger and simple side stepping.

"You are superb Wardes." Said Zero with respect in his tone. "It is rare to see soldiers in your caliber."

"In human standards, he is pretty strong. In "Human standards." Thought Zero

Wardes was a little strained after a few minutes' attempt to hit Zero correctly. But all of his efforts failed. He charged one last time. He gives all of his attack and magic in his strike accelerating him forward Zero and strengthening his strike. But Zero simple cached his Wind-sword with his index finger and thumb.

Wardes eyes widened because of the impossible sight before him.

Zero raised his other hand towards Wardes forehead in a flicking position. In that moment. Wardes felt something what he never thought he could feel. He felt helpless. He felt if he pushes this game forward. He will die surely. He gulped swallowing his pride then announced.

"I yield!" Zero released Wardes Wand-sword and his other hand retreated to his pocket.

"What a pity. It was an enjoyable game. Don't you agree?" he asked Wardes. Wardes barely managed not to tremble before Zero. "Yes. It was. I hope we can repeat at a later time."

Zero smiled at him. "That would be wonderful."

"I see now you can protect Louise." He forced a weak smile on his face. "I am relieved. Knowing Louise has the protector what she needs."

Louise was still stood on the background watching the duel dumbfounded. Zero nodded. "Thank you. I do my best." They shook each other hand.

"He is lying. His fear level is extremely high. The facts his posture, breathing, over compensation, repetitiveness, difficult speaking, infrequent blinking and the fact he is covering his vulnerable areas all yelling to me he is lying. Beside that his increased brain activity is telling me too he is lying. What could you hide Wardes? It does not matter. You are a good actor but not good enough to hide anything from me. Soon you will reveal your cards, and I will be there to dunk you." Thought Zero

"If you excuse me. I will return to my book. Take care." With that Zero retreated the same spot where he sated before and continued his book.

Louise fearfully came over.

Wardes turned to Louise "You summoned a great familiar Louise." Wardes told her calmly with a fake smile on his face.

"But. But aren't you the commander of the Magic Knights? The secret group that was assigned to protect the queen? That means something is it not?"

"True, but aren't you going to Albion and might do battle? When you are surrounded by strong enemies, you will need a strong protector like Zero. I can't be beside you all of the times. Can I?'"

He smiled at Louise. Louise's face reddened. "Y-Yes. That would be a ridiculous request."

Louise became silent and then looked at Wardes with worry. From his head came more fresh blood and the little girl drew out her handkerchief in a panic, but was stopped by Wardes.

"Don't worry Louise. It is only a little scratch."

Wardes grabbed onto Louise's hands.

"But…"

"Let's retreat our room."

Louise hesitantly bit her lips for a moment and, with another tug from Wardes, left.

Derflinger quipped while Wardes was out of hearing range. "You totally wrecked him. partner."

"He was not bad. He has some key vulnerabilities in his posture. But that's all."

"You totally humiliated him before his fiancée. That look on his face was priceless when he recognized his defeat." Derf laughed loudly. "Huh." Derf sighed in a satisfied tone. "Partner. This is why I like you. You always make my day."

"As the saying goes. I live to serve Derf." With that, he continued his book.

Later that day Tabitha approached the reading Zero.

"Hello, Tabitha. What can I do for you?"

"Train." She said in her usual emotionless tone.

"Ok. Physical training or magic theory?" Zero asked.

"Magical theory." She replied shortly

"Ok. Let's retreat to my room. I hope Guiche is not here. Or either I have to kick him from the room or make him pay for the lesson. I don't give free lessons."

Tabitha nodded in response. With that, they retreated into Zero's dorm and started the lesson.

That night, Zero just finished his book in outside under the tree and watched the clear night sky. He only saw this beautiful sky in the game. Because the modern Earth was so polluted, you could not possibly see the night sky because of the air and light pollution.

Guiche and company were drinking in the bar on the first floor. Tomorrow they were heading for Albion, so everyone was partying below. Kirche came with an invitation, but he refused. He was immune toxins like alcohol and he wanted to finish his book in peace. He could easily scan the book with his scan item ability and gain all of the knowledge from it. But he loved slowly embrace the material what he is reading.

Apparently, the group could leave with the two moon eclipses; it was the day in which Albion was closest to the world.

Zero looked up to the starlit night sky, in the sea of stars, the pink moon hid behind the white moon, and thus became one moon sparkling with a peach color. That moon highly resembled the one from his original homeland, the moon of Earth. But thanks to the high air pollution and the enormous skyscrapers in the city where he lived. It was rarely seen. One of his friends in YGGDRASILL was entirely fond of the old world sky. He even named his character Blue Planet. He made a quick photo from the two moon and the sky.

"Oh. Blue Planet-san. I wonder if you would get an eye orgasm after you inspecting this beautiful night sky." Chuckled Zero.

"Oh. Beautiful memories. I remember Momonga-san and the others from the Ainz Ooal Gown invited me many times to join them. I wonder if I accepted their offer. How would that affect my current state? Whether I still get transported here? Or an another world? Or maybe the threads of fate let me to that annoying reality what I called life?" Zero stared the two moons of Halkeginia.

"Who knows. I don't care. The only things what counts. I am here. I am me and I having a good time. "he smiled while thought about his memories.

Then he felt Louise is approaching him. After a moment Louise appeared.

"Zero."

Turning around, he saw Louise standing behind him with her arms crossed.

"Hello, Louise. You don't celebrate with the others?"

"That's not right."

" What is not right?" asked Zero while he turned back to his sky gazing.

Louise lowered her head.

"I did not want to leave you alone on this night."

"Thank you. But it is not necessary. I just embrace memories while I was staring this beautiful painting what lies before us."

"Can I watch with you?" asked Louise timidly

"There is no laws against it. Stay if you wish." Louise nodded and stood beside Zero. They watched together the night sky.

"The memories what you embraced are right or wrong?" asked Louise

"Mostly good. But there are a few bad memories. You should know. There are no good memories without bad. Good and bad things are the same coin two sides. Now I mostly thought about an old friend when I am watching the night sky."

"What was his/her name?"

"Blue Planet. He loved everything that connected to nature mostly the clear sky."

"That's a weird name..." said Louise while looked into the night sky.

"I know right." Replied Zero. "He named himself after his true love. The clear night sky."

"Why? There is no clear sky where you came from Zero?"

"Yes, there is. But the world where he is from. Humanity polluted the air in such great extent and built so many tall buildings. You could barely see the night sky. You could not breathe without a mask or artificial lungs. On top of that, you never see the stars. Because of the lights what the buildings always emits so bright. It seems there is always daytime."

"That's horrible and sad," said Louise. "But I wonder I could ever see your world Zero." wondered Louise. "Maybe one day." Replied Zero "Maybe one day..."

"Do you want to go back?" asked Louise.

"As I said you in the night of the ball. I am glad you summoned me. I was bored in my world. I am an adventurer mercenary. I live for the adventure and challenge."

"Then… Why do you stay with me? You could find easily greater adventure than taking care of a noble." Inquired Louise while he looked at Zero who still watched the night sky.

"Maybe, because you and the others amuse me perhaps, because I care about you. Who knows."

Louise looked down as her face is reddened. "But one thing is sure." Louise looked Zero face again.

"There is always an adventure where you would not expect it. It is like the Spanish Inquisition. Nobody expects the Spanish Inquisition."

Louise looked back the night sky. "Idiot." She mumbled under her breath. "As you say, Louise as you say. I am truly an idiot." He smiled.

Louise stared at Zero.

Zero then said the next with a sarcastic tone, "You are lucky to found Wardes. You two will make a great pair." Louise frowned because of her sudden anger. She knew Zero just tease her.

Zero turned his head to Louise angry face.

Under that strawberry colored hair, Louise's strawberry eyes sparked with fury. Her usually pale face was also tinted with the colour of anger, which made her puckered lips incredibly cute.

"You know you are cute when you are angry. It suits you." Said Zero. In response, Louise kicked his shin.

Occasionally, Louise shows up like a real girl that combines courage, kindness, and beauty in herself.

Louise looked at Zero, but Zero remained silent, not caring. What? Louise thought.

"I am going to marry Wardes."

Louise said to Zero, but Zero remained silent and didn't say anything. He just continued to stare the night sky.

"It is your decision. I am no one to decide instead of you. But don't expect because of your marriage your training schedule will be easier. We will make up for your lack of training under the trip."

He turned to Louise and forced a grin on his face. Louise gulped because she knew what that means. More physical conditioning. The new bane of her existence.

At first, she expected Zero to say something else to stop her, but he didn't even say a single word about her marriage. He just stared the sea of stars before him.

"Why didn't he trying to stop me?" Louise panicked.

"A person like you should spend the rest of your life staring at the moon!" Louise howled as she dashed away.

Zero felt something is approaching them. It was Fouquet. He forced a smile on his face.

"So you want to be dunked again. Huh. So be it. If you like to be beaten to a pulp. Who am I to stop you? There are multiple magic signatures behind her. They are maximum level 35, so it will be an easy round." Murmured Zero

Just at this moment…

Zero sighed "When I thought I have a calm night at once!" Zero murmured under his nose. Louise turned her head around, and to her surprise, something appeared that swallowed the moon, and it was nowhere to be seen.

Beneath the moon's shadow, there appeared to be a giant. When they looked at it closely, the huge shadow turned out to be a golem made of stone. The person controlling the golem proved to be…

"Fouquet!" Louise shouted. The figure above them sat on the golem's shoulder, cheerfully answered, "Oh, it is such an honor to be remembered!" behind her many angels appeared.

"Seraphim Flames. To send me such weak opponents. It is a little rude."

The sword on Zero's waist shouted, "Shouldn't you be rotting in jail?"

Fouquet shouted back, "Somebody had a kind heart, a beauty like myself should be contriving to the welfare of the world, so they let me escape."

It was dark so not many people could see it, but there was a figure in the black cape of nobility standing next to the woman. Was that guy the person who helped her escape? The noble supported Fouquet's actions, but remained silent. Because the figure wore a mask, no one could see anything clear, but it appeared to be a man.

"So you come here to get dunked again? Huh?" Zero asked Fouquet with a calm manner.

"I am here to thank you for the long vacation you gave me, I am here to send you my appreciation!"

Fouquet howled in laughter, as the massive golem pulverized the fence on the balcony with one hit. The wall was carved right out of solid stone, so it appeared the power of the golem had increased significantly. Only the area around Zero remained unscathed.

"There is stone, not dirt, so calm down!"

"It seems you never learn. Why the small fry always so bouncy?"

Fouquet frowned. Then pointed her wand to Zero. "This time you will be the one who will tremble on the ground. As you say, I brought reinforcements this time. You…" but she can't continue because Zero interrupted her.

"Ok. Ok. I understand. Shorten it to twenty words, please. I have many things to do this lovely night."

Fouquet gritted her teeth. "You two. Attack him!" Two Seraphim Flames rocketed into Zero's direction. Louise watched in horror as the two and a half meters tall construct whose wings seemingly made from bright lights and their body manufactured from some high-quality metal charged towards Zero.

Zero only looked bored in the direction of the two accusing angel. When they reached him, they both stabbed him at his abdomen with a sharp strike with their blades what seemingly made from pure light energy.

"Partner!"

"Zero!" Louise and Derf shouted in unison. Fouquet only smirked reproachfully.

"Hah! Now who will be the one who will be on the ground? Who stands now above the other?" Laughed Fouquet

"Now come back." She commanded the angels. The angels started to struggle to get away from Zero's body.

"Come back! I command you!"

"Didn't I said you? You speak too much." Everyone eyes widened. The Seraphim Flames energy blades what stabbed through Zero's abdomen disappeared, but there was no visible damage on Zero.

Then Fouquet saw the impossible happening before her eyes. Zero easily held the struggling creatures head what quickly destroyed her earth golem when she tested against them. Zero squished the two angels head with a little more power. The monsters head started to crack then they evaporated in a rain of light particles.

"I-Impossible." Shuttered the figure behind Fouquet.

"Well then. Who is the next?" Zero held out his arms.

"You idiot," Louise said while smiled.

"Partner. You always surprise me."

Fouquet looked back to the unknown figure behind her back. The masked man nodded. At that moment the green haired ex-secretary commanded all of the angels to attack.

"There are a whole bunch of them, partner. How do you want to deal with them?"

"Derf does you want a little practice?" asked Zero.

"Of course, Partner. It would be good if you use me." Zero nodded.

He turned back to Louise. "Louise. Please hide somewhere. It will be messy."

"B-But…" Louise shuttered.

"I said. Hide. Go into the inn. Wardes will protect you while I take care of this little misfits." Zero shoot a minimal amount of killing intent towards Louise. The blood in her veins froze instantly. She turned around and hid away.

With that Zero pulled out Derf from his sheath and jumped into the air.

"[Silent Cast: Fly]" he cast while jumped into the air. "[Silent Cast: Blinking Strikes]"

He disappeared in mid-air. The angels looked around searching for their opponent. Then he reappeared behind one of the angels and sliced in half. The angel dissapeared into bright light particles immediately. The masked figure had enough. He quickly left Fouquet on her own. He doesn't even say "Goodbye."

Zero rapidly disappeared and reappeared. With each of his blinking attack, he sliced pieces' many angels. The angels were so confused they completely paralyzed. Fouquet was paralyzed because of not her confused state. But because the sudden realization what rushed through her.

Suddenly Zero appeared on her golem another shoulder. He stabbed Derf into the golem's shoulder and channeled his magic through him. "[Magic Breaker]" when the anti-magic particles reached the golem the golem disappeared completely.

Fouquet started to fall towards the ground she closed her eyes. Because the strange ability what Zero used make her unable to use magic. Then she suddenly felt someone caught her in the mid air. She looked upward. Her eyes widened. It was Zero

"He is a completely another level. I never had a chance. He will surely kill me this time. What should I do? I am sorry Tiffania! I am sorry... It seems this time. I can't return to you."

She looked tremblingly to Zero and gulped. Zero looked at her. "Hey, are you alright? You seem like someone who seen Lady Death itself."

She can't possibly place this sudden tone changing from Zero. "I-I am fine. Thank you. Can you put me down please?" she asked in a trembling tone.

Zero silently cast his anti-information magic. "[Silent Cast: Layered False Data], [Silent Cast: Layered Anti Divination Network], [Silent Cast: Layered Greater Illusion], [Silent Cast: Reality Hacking]"

After his fast advanced anti-divination countermeasures. He turned back to Fouquet. "Of course," he put down Fouquet. She turned to Zero. "Are you going to kill me now?" she asked in a trembling tone. "That depends on. You did this willingly, or someone forced you?"

"T-They forced me." She said. "As I thought." Zero sighed.

"H-How?" Fouquet asked in a trembling tone.

"You did not emit any real ill intent towards us. It was all fake."

"Then what you will do with me?" she inquired.

"I let you go off course. I have no intention of kill innocents. Besides that, there is no reward in your head yet. If I were you, I hide somewhere under a fake persona. Your former employers most likely came after you if they think you are still alive. But I have a condition."

"What is it?" asked Fouquet.

"You will work for me when I call you. You will come. If I say you jump. You ask how high? In return, you will get protection from me and those who hold close to your heart."

Fouquet nodded. "I accept." Zero clapped his hand together. "Good. Excellent." He reached into his duster and pulled out a business card. "If you need me, just drop a call."

Fouquet accepted the card and looked Zero dumbfounded. "A call?"

"Just channel your magic through the card, and I will come as fast as I can."

Fouquet nodded. "How do you know I will not fool you?"

"Hmm. Let's just say. There are certain signs when people are lying. You can test it if you want."

Fouquet smiled. "Fine. My real name is Longueville."

"You are lying." Said Zero

"I became a thief because of self-interest."

"There is a lie in it. But also there is truth. You became a thief to protect someone else."

"Ok fine. You got it. One last test."

"I am all ears." Said Zero.

"I wear black panties." She looked into Zero emotionless cybernetic eye. "True." Said Zero.

Fouquet's face reddened. Then shook herself back to the reality and turned to Zero. "How do I know you will not cheat me?"

Zero forced a smile on his face. "I never cheat. Sign the contract and our agreement will be finalized." He pulled out a rolled up paper. Handed to Fouquet who read it nodded then signed.

"Well, then it is time to say goodbye until we meet again." Said Fouquet. "By the way. My name is Matilda. Matilda de Sachsen-Gotha." Zero bowed before her. "It is good to meet you. Miss Matilda."

Matilda, cheeks reddened because of her sudden embarrassment. Then turned around and prepared herself to leave. "Wait a moment Miss Matilda." Stopped her Zero. Matilda turned around and looked at him. "You need something that will hide you from the unwanted gazes until you will be far away." Zero held out his hand. "[Greater Layered Illusion], [Greater Layered Invisibility]" With that former thief disappeared from the gazes of normal people.

"One more thing." Zero reached into his pocket dimension under his duster and pulled out an item. It was a ring. "Here. wear this ring, and it will change your appearance when you want to disappear."

It was an item what was not useful for Zero. He has many of them in his pocket bank. But it could generate an illusion strong enough to be comparable a to tier nine illusion spell.

Matilda accepted the ring and nodded. "One more thing before I go." Zero looked at her. Matilda continued. "Be aware from Wardes. He is not your friend."

Zero nodded. "I am aware of the fact but thank you until we meet each other again. Matilda de Sachsen-Gotha." Fouquet nodded then left the scene.

Meanwhile, the room below became a pandemonium.

Suddenly a group of soldiers came to assault Wardes and company who were drinking.

Guiche, Kirche, Tabitha, and Wardes were using magic to defend themselves. However, there were too many people. It appeared every soldier from La Rochelle came attacking.

It seemed like they were losing.

Kirche broke one of the table's legs and decided to use the table as a shield against the coming foes. The attacking soldiers were used to fighting magic-using enemies already. While they were fighting, they observed Kirche and her allies range and style. Then moved out the magic's range to attack with bows. The soldiers hidden from the dark had the advantage of the field, leaving those inside the room a bitter battle.

If anyone stood up to chant magic, they were answered with a torrential volley of arrows.

The other nobles and guests were hiding under the counter and shaking in fear. The fat innkeeper called out to the soldiers, "What are you doing to my establishment?" But one arrow slammed into his shoulder, leaving him slumped on the ground.

"This is troublesome." Listening to Wardes' words, Kirche nodded.

"It appears this band is not only just interested in a simple little robbery."

"Maybe Fouquet and Albion's nobles are behind this?"

Kirche raised her wand, and mumbled, "…Those guys are planning for us to use our magic, exhaust ourselves then come in with a charge, what can we do?"

"My Valkyries will protect us."

"Guiche, your Valkyries are only a small squad, these are seasoned mercenaries."

"If we don't try we will never know."

"But Guiche, if it comes to warfare I am a far better expert than you are."

"But I am the son of General de Gramont, how could I lose to this band of idiot soldiers?"

"This is intolerable, the nobles of Tristain are only tough with their words, but their actual combat capabilities are pretty weak."

Guiche stood up, preparing to chant his magic. But Wardes stopped him by grabbing on to the young noble's shirt.

"Everyone! Listen carefully," Wardes whispered. Everyone became silent to hear what Wardes want to say.

"This mission counts as complete if one-half of the group arrives safely at the destination."

At this moment the cute Tabitha also closed her book and looked at Wardes' direction. The girl used her staff and pointed at herself, Kirche and Guiche and uttered one word, "Bait."

Then Tabitha continued and looked at, Wardes, and Louise, then spoke another word, "Go to the harbor."

"The time?" Wardes asked the young girl.

"We will carry it out right now."

"Just like we planned a while ago, go from the back door."

"Ah? AH!" Louise shouted out in surprise.

"They are responsible for holding the situation; we should be able to confuse their sight. Using this time we should be able to escape toward the harbor, just like that."

"But…But… What about Zero?" Louise asked in a worried tone.

"He will join us later." Wardes calmed Louise.

Kirche and the girl ran her hand through her red hair. And puckered her lips then added, "Bah, can't help it anyway, we didn't want to go to Albion with you anyway."

Guiche sniffed at his Rose, "Heh, I might die here. What would happen then? If I die, then I won't be able to meet Princess Henrietta again."

Tabitha nodded at Louise. "Go."

"But.."

Then, she turned around to face Louise, "Ah, Louise, please don't make any misinterpretation of this, I am not here to be bait for you."

"I know, I know!" Although she said it, Louise still lowered her head in a salute to Kirche and others.

Louise and Wardes dropped their body to the floor and began to run. Arrows flew in their direction, but with a wave of Tabitha's wand, the roaring wind protected them from the onslaught.

The group fled from the bar into the kitchen and toward the other exit, and then there was a huge explosion behind them.

"…It looks like it has begun." Louise mouthed.

Wardes crouched close to the door, then listened to the situation outside.

"There doesn't appear to be anyone."

Opening the door, the three leaped into the night streets of La Rochelle.

"The docks are this way."

Wardes was in the lead; Louise followed behind.

Under the moonlight, the duo's shadow extended, and followed closely behind.

Zero looked into the direction where he felt Louise and Wardes life signatures. He forced a smirk in his mouth. "So the game begins. I hope it will be exciting. I wonder how they managed to get their hands on those Seraphim Flames. Maybe an another player? Oh, I can't wait to met him/her." Zero chuckled.